News Summary
The E.S.T.E.A.M.ED Summit, hosted at Florida A&M University, focuses on equipping Black women with vital coding skills and personal development. Organized by the Arise and Shine Foundation, the event aims to increase representation of Black women in STEM fields through hands-on learning and empowerment exercises. Participants gain technical skills while also engaging in activities that boost self-esteem and personal growth. Each attendee is awarded a scholarship to further their education, making this summit a pivotal initiative for women in technology.
Tallahassee, Florida – The E.S.T.E.A.M.ED Summit, a three-day event focused on empowering Black women through coding and personal development, is currently taking place at Florida A&M University (FAMU). Organized by the Arise and Shine Foundation, which was founded by actress Malinda Williams, this year’s summit marks its second outing, though it is the inaugural time it is hosted at FAMU.
The primary goal of the summit is to equip participants with vital coding and software engineering skills, addressing the significant underrepresentation of Black women in STEM fields, according to National Science Foundation data. The event specifically targets women who are enrolled at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), providing them with resources and knowledge to enhance their career opportunities in the tech industry.
At the summit, students like FAMU senior Camrynn Harper are gaining insights essential for their future careers. Harper, who aspires to work in aerospace engineering, emphasizes the importance of coding skills in her professional journey. The program includes hands-on experiences where students will collaborate in groups to develop mobile app software.
The E.S.T.E.A.M.ED Summit expands beyond technical instruction by incorporating personal growth exercises that focus on empowerment, self-esteem, and mindfulness. Participants are actively engaged in self-affirmation activities aimed at fostering a positive environment and enhancing personal development. This multifaceted approach is designed to not only improve technical skills but also bolster self-confidence among attendees.
Approximately 25 students are participating in the summit at FAMU, with another 25 expected to join a session at Cheyney University in Pennsylvania next month. This inclusive initiative is open to all women enrolled at HBCUs, promoting a network of support and encouragement within the community.
In addition to skill development and personal empowerment, each participant is awarded a $1,000 scholarship, contributing to the educational advancement of these young women. The summit is scheduled to continue on campus through Thursday and Friday, offering further opportunities for participants to engage in meaningful learning and collaboration.
The E.S.T.E.A.M.ED Summit represents a critical step toward increasing the representation of Black women in the technology sector. By providing resources and fostering an empowering environment, this initiative aims to inspire future generations of women in STEM. The efforts of the Arise and Shine Foundation and the partnerships with HBCUs illustrate a commitment to bridging the gap in representation and supporting the growth of Black women in technical fields.
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Additional Resources
- WTXL: FAMU Hosts All-Women Summit
- Wikipedia: Black Women in STEM
- SI: NCAA Baseball – Bethune-Cookman
- Google Search: HBCU scholarships
- Tallahassee: FAMU Top 100 Rankings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Historically Black Colleges and Universities
