Women have long been underrepresented in the STEM fields. Many feel that the presence of more women in STEM can only lead to increased innovation, competitiveness and creativity, and that a more diverse workforce is stronger, more flexible and better equipped to meet the challenges of the future. While scholars and business leaders are exploring the various reasons for this gender gap, they are also seeking ways to increase diversity in STEM fields. In fact just recently, the CEO at Intel made an announcement that he would dedicate $300 million to sponsor STEM education in K to 12 classes and in universities as part of a broader effort to boost diversity among its workforce.
Crowe Soberman wants to contribute to this ripple effect of change for diversity in STEM fields and on Friday, November 18th held their 2016 Women for Women event entitled:
The Ripple Effect: Investing in Women in STEM -
We've all heard of TEDx Talks. Well, we've come up with the description "STEMtalks" to describe the new format for this year's discussion. Rather than have a traditional panel, each of our speakers will provide us with short, powerful presentations relating to issues of gender and participation in the four disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics that make up STEM.
Our STEMtalk Speakers
Imogen Coe is the Dean of the Faculty of Science and a professor of biology at Ryerson University. She is also an affiliated scientist at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, Keenan Research Centre at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto, Canada. She is an accomplished researcher who is internationally recognized for her research on the cell biology and biochemistry of drug transport proteins.
She is also a vocal advocate for equity, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) in STEM and is recognized internationally for her work in this field. She is a sought-after speaker on the issue of EDI in STEM, locally and nationally, in diverse venues, such as TEDx and she also writes on the topic in a variety of outlets including the Huffington Post. She is a member of the Board of Directors for the Michael Garron Hospital (formerly TEGH), the Girls in STEM Executive Advisory Board (an initiative of FIRST Robotics Canada) and a member of the International Women's Forum.
Eugenia Duodu is an award-winning chemist, who holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Toronto. Her research was focused on the development of detection tools for diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.
As CEO of Visions of Science, she leads a team of passionate and talented colleagues whose focus is to provide engaging programs and opportunities for youth who are traditionally under-represented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Her goal is to help make a long-lasting positive impact in communities through STEM engagement and in-turn allow youth to unlock their potential.
Eden Hennessey is a data-driven artist and PhD Candidate in Social Psychology at Wilfrid Laurier University working with Dr. Mindi Foster. Eden's current research examines the costs of confronting sexism in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Her popular photo-research exhibits (#DistractinglySexist & #DistractinglyHonest) are internationally recognized, and present her dissertation work using a unique and thought-provoking visual medium. Eden continues to be inspired by her work with the Laurier Centre for Women in Science (WinS); a research centre that builds a strong community for women in science through research, communication, and action.