Why We Need to Recognize - And Support – Women in Science
As International Day of Women and Girls in Science approaches on Feb. 11, people around the globe will have the opportunity to reflect on the positive impact females have had in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — or STEM.
Even though having a holiday honoring women in science is important, it’s also imperative to continuously recognize the impact women have in this field, not only to honor their work but also inspire the next generation of females to explore STEM fields as viable career options.
Why is it so important to champion females in STEM careers? Consider the following data from the National Girls Collaborative Project that displays the need for more support for women in science:
Women constitute only 34 percent of the STEM workforce.
Latina, Black and Indigenous women represent less than 10 percent of the STEM workforce.
Women make up only 24 percent in engineering, 21 percent in computer science, and 24 percent of physics of those earning bachelor’s degrees in these majors.
The Foundation’s very own Dr. Abby Ross is an example and role model for women in STEM, and is collecting recognition and accolades for her work. She was recently recognized as a recipient of the Exemplary Alumnus Award at Northern Illinois University (NIU) while also being nominated for membership in the National Society of Leadership and Success through the NIU chapter for her exemplary work in lemur and conservation research.
Part of what set Dr. Ross up for future success was a female professor who took Dr. Ross under her wing when earning her master’s in anthropology at NIU. She credits NIU anthropology professor Dr. Leila Porter as an invaluable female mentor during and after her time as a graduate student at the university.
This mentorship experience inspired Dr. Ross to pay it forward to support other emerging female scientists, leading her to create the “Devoted to Discovery: Women Scientist Conservation Award” through TDARFAC to recognize extraordinary and cutting-edge work of women in conservation science. The award program particularly focuses on women from marginalized communities who are traditionally underserved in higher education to highlight their scientific contributions.
There are many ways for women to support other women in science – here are a few ideas!
Submit for TDARFAC’s Devoted to Discovery Award: Entries are due by Jan. 31, 2024 and can be submitted here!
Donate to TDARFAC: Funds not only go toward the Foundation’s research – it also helps enable female mentorship opportunities to help further support women in the field.
Pay it Forward: Like Dr. Ross, who was both recognized for her work and now seeks to highlight other outstanding women in science through the Devoted to Discovery Award, women in STEM can also pay it forward with fellow female scientists – from acting as a mentor to recognizing them through an awards program to acting as a trusted career guide…and more!
Want to find out how Dr. Ross and TDARFAC are supporting women in science? Visit TDARFAC’s Facebook and Instagram pages to learn more!
