5 Groups Supporting Underrepresented Groups In STEM
People in STEM fields are doing important work that shapes our understanding of the world and the technology we use every day. Unfortunately, many talented students are discouraged from pursuing higher education in these areas, either through explicit discrimination or subtler microaggressions that add up over time and make them feel unwelcome. That's why groups like the ones listed here highlight the achievements of underrepresented groups working in STEM and encourage young people of all backgrounds to learn more about science and technology. This video was made with Ezvid Wikimaker.
Organizations Helping Make STEM Accessible To All
| Name | Mission |
|---|---|
| Latinas in STEM | Inspire and empower Latinas to pursue, thrive, and advance in STEM fields |
| Stemettes | Inspire the next generation of female and nonbinary people into STEM fields by showing them the diversity of people already in STEM via a series of cohort programmes, impactful events, and inspirational content platforms |
| Pride in STEM | Raise the profile of LGBT+ people in STEM and highlight the struggles LGBTSTEM people often face |
| Women in Technology and Science | Advocate, connect, and act for women to benefit society as full and vital participants in STEM |
| The Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students | Encourage minority, first-generation, veteran, and disabled students to pursue higher education in STEM |
What Does STEM Stand For?
STEM is an acronym that stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. Learning skills in these areas prepares students to solve problems, make sense of information, and enter the workforce in a number of important fields. Even if a child doesn't grow up to be a scientist, this education can help them better understand the world around them and adapt more quickly to new technologies.
Empowering Latina Women Through STEM & Leadership
7 Ways To Get Children Interested in Science
- Look at common plants and objects under a microscope
- Sign them up for a science summer camp
- Take a trip to a natural history museum
- Watch educational movies and TV shows
- Go hiking with them and teach them about nature
- Play board games that encourage learning
- Explain the chemistry behind cooking and baking
Benefits Of Higher Education
- Students gain new life experience
- Graduates earn more money over time
- Opens minds up to new perspectives
- Gives students a chance to network with their peers
- Provides more career opportunities
- Improves critical thinking skills
- Allows students to realize where their passions lie
- Earning a diploma comes with a sense of accomplishment
Women In Science Who Changed The World
In Depth
Science, technology, engineering, and math, commonly known as STEM, are critical fields for the development of young minds and future possibilities. Many organizations seek to advocate for and encourage underrepresented groups in order to ensure equal opportunity for all. Whether you want to show your support for LGBTQ+ scientists or aspiring female engineers, consider the groups listed here in no particular order.
First up at #1, we have Latinas in STEM, a group dedicated to inspiring and empowering Latinas to pursue, thrive, and advance in STEM fields. Its primary purpose is to spread awareness and inspire pre-collegiate girls to consider pursuing a career in science and technology. They aim to not only educate students, but also their parents so that they may better support their daughters.
Latinas in STEM was founded by Latina MIT alumnae who were interested in formalizing the work they were doing in their respective communities. The founders are all first generation American women who know first-hand about the barriers to entry for women in their field. The organization depends on the generosity of donors to support their efforts. Consider visiting the donation page to make a contribution.
Latinas in STEM was founded by Latina MIT alumnae who were interested in formalizing the work they were doing in their respective communities.
Next at #2, is Stemettes, a social enterprise working across the UK, Ireland, and beyond to inspire the next generation of female and nonbinary scientists and engineers. Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon started Stemettes after hearing a keynote at a Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing event. It made her reflect on representation in STEM fields and inspired her to act.
Stemettes seeks to increase the representation of women in the STEM fields of the UK to over 30%. They educate young women about and connect them to professionals via a series of cohort programs, impactful events, and content platforms. One such program, the Stemillions club, connects school communities through a series of activities they can take part in at their respective campuses.
Coming in at #3, we have Pride in STEM, an independent group of LGBTQ+ scientists and engineers from around the world who seek to showcase and support LGBTQ+ people in STEM fields, challenge the public's perception of scientists, and highlight their struggles. Pride in STEM is a charitable trust, based in the UK and US, and depends on an extensive network of volunteers around the world.
Pride in STEM is a charitable trust, based in the UK and US, and depends on an extensive network of volunteers around the world.
Their main vehicle to raise awareness has been Out Thinkers, where speakers address their areas of interest and their LGBTQ+ journey. Out Thinkers provides a platform to highlight members of the LGBTQ+ community and bring people together. The goal is to break down any barriers between those who do STEM work and those interested in it.
Arriving at #4, is Women in Technology and Science, or WITS, a national independent voluntary organization founded in 1990 to promote women in STEM in Ireland. WITS educates, holds events, and advocates for positive change for women in the field. WITS members come from all areas in STEM, including industry and academia, and are some of Ireland's most eminent women.
Founder Mary Mulvihill played a vital role in highlighting the neglected role of Irish women in STEM, and was one of the pioneers of science journalism in Ireland, as well as a passionate advocate. She is remembered through the WITS Mary Mulvihill Lecture and by The Mary Mulvihill Award established by her family and friends to honor her legacy.
Founder Mary Mulvihill played a vital role in highlighting the neglected role of Irish women in STEM, and was one of the pioneers of science journalism in Ireland, as well as a passionate advocate.
Finally at #5, we have The Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students, one of the largest communities of underrepresented minorities in STEM. Students attend the conference to present their research, enhance professional development skills, explore graduate schools, and network. Academics and professionals play an essential role in mentoring students and giving them the strategies they need to succeed.
During the four-day event, students from over 350 colleges and universities participate in poster and oral presentations in twelve STEM disciplines. All student presentations are judged and those receiving the highest scores in each discipline are given an award during the closing banquet. The conference is dedicated to cultivating the future professionals of STEM.
