During the event, Denise shared several enlightening statistics:
- Only 1.8 percent of charitable giving is dedicated to women and girls, and the share dedicated to women of color is even smaller; approximately 0.5% in the U.S. (Source: Women and Girls Index, 2023)
- In 2021, women represented 35% of the STEM workforce; up from 32% in 2010 (Source: National Science Foundation). Specifically, women make up 25% of jobs in computer science and 15% of jobs in engineering (Source: Pew Research Center, 2021)
- In evaluating STEM programming by impact on girls interest, confidence, competence and value, GirlScounts USA found that participation in even ONE program can make a difference
Insight Region® presented alongside friends of CFNOVA, Brian Moran of Boolean Girl and Jennifer Fortney of STEM for Her. The two organizations are having an impact both inside and outside of the school systems, reaching girls from elementary school through college. During the event, attendees from the NOVA region and West Virginia to as far away as New Mexico learned about:
- model programs for engaging girls in STEM
- why STEM education is critical for solving our country's greatest challenges related to healthcare, environment, communication, and governance
- challenges to engaging and retaining girls in STEM careers
- opportunities to have an impact
CFNOVA launched its Business Women’s Giving Circle in 2014, comprised of women who are looking to empower girls and women of all ages through philanthropy in Northern Virginia. As we approach the 10-year anniversary of the BWGC, we are proud to have invested more than $535,000 in grants that impact over 3,250 girls and young women in NOVA, providing them with opportunities to pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields.
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