## Breaking Barriers, Building Futures: Why You Won’t Want to Miss the Women in STEM Symposium
Imagine a world where the brightest minds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are equally represented, regardless of gender. A world where young girls see themselves reflected in the pioneers shaping our future.
From groundbreaking research to innovative entrepreneurship, this symposium is a platform to celebrate achievements, ignite conversations, and empower the next generation of STEM leaders.
Ready to be inspired? Here’s what awaits you…Participating Organizations
The Women in STEM Symposium at Vanderbilt University is a collaborative effort involving several key organizations dedicated to promoting women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. These organizations play a crucial role in organizing and supporting the event to ensure its success and impact. Some of the notable participating organizations include:
- VU-WiSE (Vanderbilt University Women in Science and Engineering): The primary organizer of the symposium, VU-WiSE is committed to fostering a supportive community for women in STEM at Vanderbilt. They provide resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to empower women in these fields.
- Vanderbilt University School of Engineering: As the host venue, the School of Engineering is instrumental in providing the necessary facilities and support for the event. Their collaboration ensures a seamless experience for participants.
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center: The medical center contributes by providing expert panelists and resources, highlighting the intersection of medicine and STEM fields. This collaboration enriches the discussions and provides diverse perspectives.
- Peabody College of Education and Human Development: This college brings a focus on education and human development, adding a layer of insight into how education can drive diversity and inclusion in STEM.
- Black Girls Code: Founded by Kimberly Bryant, a Vanderbilt University School of Engineering alumna, Black Girls Code aims to attract more young women of color into tech fields. Their participation provides a vital perspective on addressing the underrepresentation of women in STEM.
Networking Opportunities
Networking is a cornerstone of the Women in STEM Symposium, offering attendees the chance to connect with professionals, mentors, and peers. The event provides various opportunities for meaningful interactions and collaborations.
Professional Development Workshops
The symposium features several professional development workshops designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of attendees. These workshops cover a range of topics, from technical skills to leadership and career development. Participants can expect to gain practical insights and tools that can be applied directly to their careers.
Panel Discussion and Q&A
The highlight of the event is the panel discussion featuring STEM professionals, including Dr. Charreau Bell, the director of the data science minor at Vanderbilt. The panel will discuss pathways to STEM, navigating academia and medicine, and addressing barriers that cause women to be underrepresented in STEM fields. This session will be followed by a Q&A, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain deeper insights from the experts.
Organization Fair
An organization fair will be held alongside the panel discussion, providing attendees with the opportunity to interact with various organizations and institutions that support women in STEM. This includes booths from VU-WiSE, Black Girls Code, and other relevant groups. Attendees can learn about job opportunities, internships, and resources available to them.
Professional Headshots
In addition to networking, the event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to get professional headshots. These headshots can be used for LinkedIn profiles, resumes, and other professional purposes, helping attendees enhance their personal brand and make a strong impression in their respective fields.
Free Food and Refreshments
The symposium will also provide free food and refreshments, ensuring that attendees can focus on networking and learning without worrying about logistics. This additional support contributes to a more enjoyable and productive experience.
Related Events
Bridging Our Voices: A Musical Celebration of Cultures
On Friday, February 28, the Black Cultural Center Auditorium will host “Bridging Our Voices: A Musical Celebration of Cultures.” This event features performances by Melanated A Cappella and Voce A Cappella, providing a vibrant and inspiring start to Women’s History Month. Refreshments will be provided, making it a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the performances.
Period Product Supply Drive
Running from March 3 through March 31, the Period Product Supply Drive aims to collect donations for those in need. This initiative underscores the importance of addressing basic needs and is a practical way to support the community. Donations can be dropped off at the Women’s Center during their normal hours.
Importance of Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the struggles and achievements of women from all nations and cultures. It serves as a reminder of the progress made and the work still to be done in achieving gender equality. At Vanderbilt, Women’s History Month is celebrated with a variety of events that highlight the contributions of women in different fields, including STEM.
The Women in STEM Symposium aligns perfectly with the goals of Women’s History Month by highlighting the achievements of women in STEM and addressing the challenges they face. By bringing together professionals, students, and community members, the symposium fosters a dialogue that can inspire future generations of women in STEM.
Practical Aspects for Attendees
Schedule of Events
The Women in STEM Symposium will take place on March 21 at the Vanderbilt University School of Engineering. The event begins with a panel discussion at 4:00 PM in the Featheringill Hall, Jacobs Believed in Me Auditorium. This will be followed by the organization fair, professional development workshops, and other networking activities. The event will conclude with a Q&A session and opportunities for attendees to get professional headshots.
Venue Information
The event will be held at the Vanderbilt University School of Engineering, located at 400 24th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37212. For any on-site inquiries, attendees can contact Pam Coyle at (615) 415-6884.
Getting Involved
How to Participate in Discussions
The Women in STEM Symposium encourages active participation from all attendees. Whether you are a student, professional, or community member, there are numerous ways to engage in the discussions. Attendees can ask questions during the Q&A session, share their experiences in the workshops, and network with others. Pre-event registration on AnchorLink is recommended to secure your spot and receive updates.
Post-Event Follow-up
After the event, attendees are encouraged to stay connected with the participating organizations and continue the dialogue. Many of the participating organizations have online communities and resources where attendees can stay informed and engaged. Additionally, the Women’s Center at Vanderbilt can provide further information and support.
Implications for STEM and Vanderbilt Community
Inspiring Future Generations
The Women in STEM Symposium plays a crucial role in inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in STEM. By showcasing successful women in these fields and addressing the challenges they face, the symposium provides a roadmap for aspiring professionals. The event also highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion, encouraging young women to see themselves in STEM roles.
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
The symposium is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM. By featuring speakers from diverse backgrounds and addressing the unique challenges faced by women of color, the event fosters a more inclusive environment. This commitment to diversity is reflected in the participating organizations and the overall structure of the event.
Community Impact
Vanderbilt’s Commitment to STEM
Vanderbilt University has a strong commitment to STEM education and research. The Women in STEM Symposium is a testament to this commitment, providing a platform for women to excel in these fields. The university’s support for such events demonstrates its dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students and faculty.
Broader Implications for the City of Nashville
The Women in STEM Symposium has broader implications for the city of Nashville. By fostering a more diverse and inclusive STEM community, the event contributes to the city’s economic growth and innovation. Nashville’s tech and medical industries can benefit from a larger pool of talented individuals, driving progress in various sectors. The symposium also reinforces Nashville’s reputation as a hub for education and innovation.
Conclusion
The Women in STEM Symposium, held on March 21st at Vanderbilt University, brought together an impressive gathering of women pioneers in STEM fields to share their experiences, insights, and strategies for overcoming the numerous challenges they face. The symposium’s keynote speakers emphasized the significance of female representation in STEM, highlighting the need for increased diversity and inclusion to drive innovation and solve complex problems. A panel discussion focused on the intersection of STEM and social impact, showcasing the remarkable work of women who are using science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to address pressing global issues.
The symposium’s discussions underscored the ongoing struggle for women in STEM to navigate a male-dominated industry, where biases, stereotypes, and limited opportunities can hinder their progress. However, the speakers also shared inspiring stories of perseverance, resilience, and triumph, demonstrating that with determination and support, women can achieve remarkable success in STEM. The symposium’s attendees took away valuable takeaways, including the importance of mentorship, networking, and advocacy in bridging the gender gap in STEM.
As we move forward, it’s essential to recognize the critical role that women in STEM can play in addressing the complex challenges facing our world. The symposium’s message is clear: by promoting diversity, inclusion, and empowerment, we can unlock the full potential of women in STEM and drive innovation, creativity, and progress. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, we must remember that the future of science, technology, and society depends on the contributions of women and underrepresented groups in STEM – and it’s time for us to act.