Women In Science Conferences

Events:

• University of Wyoming, Laramie, May 15, 2008
• Central Wyoming College, Riverton, October 5, 2007

For more information please contact the Wyoming Space Grant Consortium.

2006 Laramie Conference Program
2007 Laramie Conference Program -- 2007 Conference Pictures

About the Events:

Women in Science Conferences are designed to allow young women in grades 7 through 12 to learn first-hand about careers in science, mathematics, and technology from accomplished professional women. Results of an international science and mathematics study conducted in 2000 indicated that "children in the United States were among the leaders in the 4^th grade assessment, but by high school graduation, they were almost last." Part of the problem is that many girls and young women in junior and senior high school lose interest in science and technological careers. The goal of the WIS Conferences held at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, and at Central Wyoming College in Riverton, are to directly address this problem. The conferences will be a cooperative effort supported by local agencies, schools, and businesses, in addition to several state agencies. By presenting positive role models in the science, mathematics, and technological fields, we hope to encourage all students (especially young women and minorities) to pursue higher education and careers in mathematics and science.

Making connections with people who are accomplished in mathematics or science related occupations is one of the best ways to promote student aspirations and achievements. We believe our conferences will provide a forum for young women and girls to learn about the endless opportunities available in math, science, and technical related career fields and to create personal connections with professional women.

The National Weather Service Office in Cheyenne and Wyoming NASA Space Grant have had eight successful WIS Conferences in Laramie since 1998. In May 2007, approximately 340 Wyoming students attended a full-day conference. The students visited science labs, met professors, and had the opportunity to visit with women scientists in a variety of career fields. Each student walked away with information on careers in science, mathematics, and technology.

We are seeking businesses, agencies, and civic organizations to help support our WIS conference. Support could be provided in a variety of forms. For example, funding could be used to deter travel, lodging, and per diem expenses for our speakers. Another possibility would be scholarships or Savings Bonds for students, merchandise which could be given as door prizes, or helping with a brown bag lunch for the students, speakers, and volunteers.

If you would like to support the Women in Science Conference, please contact the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Office.