WOC STEM Conference attendees are, from left, Juanita Anthony, CS faculty/campus coordinator; Janee Adams, chemistry faculty; Kendyl Washington, math major; Fabiola Cordosa, IT major; Kymberly Wimberly, chemistry major; Breanna Crews, IT; Kayla Wright, CS major; Delois Moss, chemistry major; Rhyanna Cohen, CS major; Shaneeka Hawkins; IT major; Felecia Webb; industrial technology faculty. Special to The Commercial
Kendly Washington, a WOC STEM Conference attendee, interacts with a prospective employer at a career fair. Special to The Commercial
A delegation of STEM faculty and students recently attended the 17th annual WOC (Women of Color) STEM Conference in Dallas.
The conference recognizes outstanding women in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields and provides opportunities for professional development, networking and recruiting.
The conference schedule of events included seminars/workshops, awards/recognition luncheons and dinners on the student and professional levels, professional networking mixer, K-12 educational programs, poster contests, technology recognition (professional), a black tie awards gala, and myriad other activities.
Through the Development Institute for Emerging Leaders program, STEM students are encouraged to attend the conference activities. DIEL’s mission is to encourage students to sustain an interest in and commitment to the STEM industry/education, and it is a comprehensive leadership and professional development program designed to help students succeed in the work place. The cost of UAPB students’ attendance was partially underwritten by the DIEL program.
Many seminar sessions were available. UAPB STEM students chose events based on their interests, but all attended the career fair to interact with prospective employers on career opportunities. Some of the seminars attended by STEM students were Pursuing Higher Degrees-Applying for and Being Accepted to Graduate School; The “X” Factor-Strategies for Winning Images, Lasting Impressions, and Brilliant Brands; Fundamentals of Executive leadership: 5 Most Critical Leadership Skills; Innovative Chefs-Exploring the Recipe for Technology Readiness; The Next Big Thing-Industry Experts Share Pioneering Technical Advancements and Visions for the Future; College Study Hall-Access Mentors, Build Resumes, Get Academic Support and Guidance; and A Spotlight on Women’s Health-What You Need to Know to Live a Longer, Healthier Life.
The conference was a first-time experience for most of the students who had the opportunity to attend this year. They liked seeing minorities being awarded for what they have done and achieved. Some were inspired to pursue master’s and doctorate degrees.
Details: Call 575-7165.