February 21, 2019
On February 11th, the IISR celebrated the International Day for Women and Girls in Science with 50 Queens County high school girls. The day was dedicated to raising awareness of STEM careers in sports, as well as highlighting the importance of female camaraderie in male dominated industries. The girls were treated to a tour of St. John’s University’s athletic facilities, conducted by Dr. Nancy Kaplan, the associate provost of Academic Support Services. Dr. Kaplan, Olivia May (Athletic trainer) and Andras Nemeth (Student Athlete) participated in a discussion panel that afforded students a chance to ask questions and gain insight on what it takes to become and remain successful as a college athlete.
Our honored guest speaker Dr. Yetsa Tuakli-Wosornu gave a compelling presentation on the power of telling your story and the need to strengthen relationships with other women in the industry. Through an engaging conversation and encouragement from Dr. Tualki-Wosornu, we watched the girls lower their guard and open up about the difficulties they face as young athletes of color. As tears ensued, bonds formed and the group of 50 plus girls banded together to listen to and support each other. Words cannot begin to explain the electricity in the room that resonated as the girls experienced renewed hopes and dreams.
The girls were also addressed by the Dean of the College of Professional Studies Dr. Passerini and the Chair of Women in Science program, Dr. DeBello. They emphasized the opportunities in STEM careers through statistical facts, promoting scholarship availability and sharing their passion for seeing women excel in STEM fields. The day was laden with team building games, informative presentations, wisdom and laughter. Our hope was to inspire every girl in attendance to aspire to a career in STEM, while paving out a career path that will allow them to remain working in the industry they are most passionate about, sports.