COSAM News Articles 2023 November Fourth annual EmpowHER Conference showcases passion and importance of diversity in STEM fields

Fourth annual EmpowHER Conference showcases passion and importance of diversity in STEM fields

Published: 11/14/2023

By: Kristen Jackson

More than 180 girls and educators from 12 schools across the state of Alabama participated in the fourth annual EmpowHER Conference hosted by the STEM Outreach Center in the College of Sciences and Mathematics (COSAM).

“EmpowHER is a unique opportunity for middle and high school students to engage with inspiring female role models and envision futures as STEM professionals — careers in which women remain underrepresented,” said Jess Gilpin, assistant director for the STEM Outreach office. It fosters curiosity and encourages girls interested in science, technology, engineering and math to pursue these interests.

Kimberly Mulligen-Guy, Senior Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives and Programs in COSAM and keynote speaker, Ronda Broome, welcomed the group to the university. Broome is a 2006 graduate of COSAM. A healthcare professional with expertise in healthcare management, informatics and technology, she currently serves as the associate director of clinical abstraction at Syapse, a healthcare technology company dedicated to extinguishing the fear and burden of serious disease by advancing real-world care.

Broome was honored to attend the event and share her passion for promoting women in STEM fields. ”This event empowers young women and inspires them to explore and seek answers,” said Broome. “It exposes them to fields outside of what they think STEM encompasses and gives them the confidence to become innovators, problem solvers and leaders.”

She also discussed the importance of diversity in STEM fields. “I enjoyed seeing the diversity among the attendees and student volunteers. Representation matters so our youth can envision themselves in similar roles and see how they can have the ability to excel,” stated Broome.

Attendees participated in break-out sessions and received hands-on learning experiences during the STEM expo which showcased research and departments within COSAM. The exhibits gave girls an opportunity to see animals up close, participate in scientific experiments, and learn about STEM degrees at Auburn.

Breakout sessions during the event highlighted marine life, leaf pigmentation, drones, enzymology, physics and gave the participants a chance to hear from a panel of pre-health students.

“The panel was very engaging,” said high school students Jennifer Emilano Flores and Shelby Ruiz. “There were also many intriguing activities to engage and captivate our attention. We really liked all the attention to different professions.”

Zohee, an eighth-grade student from Banks Middle School discussed what the morning meant to her, “This program has helped me with my future life decisions.”

“I was able to talk to a vet student for the first time to confirm my interest in veterinary science as a career path.” MaKenzie, an eighth-grade student from Capital Heights Middle School said.

This was Eclectic Middle School teacher Amy Harvell’s third year to bring a group to EmpowHER. Harvell became very emotional talking about what the program means to her and her students. “I will come back every year because these girls don’t get these experiences regularly. Programs like this expose them to a whole new path for their future. I want them to see the possibilities they don’t get to normally see.”

An inspiring and interactive keynote talk from Ronda Broome concluded the event.

The fourth EmpowHER conference made an impact on middle and high school students and encouraged them to continue to learn and grow in their exposure to STEM.