The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an annual observance adopted by the United Nations General Assembly to promote the full and equal access and participation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.
A significant gender gap persists at all levels of STEM disciplines all over the world. Even though women have made tremendous progress towards increasing their participation in higher education, they are still underrepresented in these fields.
Tackling some of the greatest challenges our planet faces – from improving global health outcomes to combating climate change – will rely on harnessing all talent. Additionally, diversity in research expands the pool of talented researchers, bringing in fresh perspectives, talent and creativity.
At our February 28 board meeting, I sponsored a resolution acknowledging this important day and recognizing local women in the sciences, including Alecia Weisman, Headwaters Science Program Director at the South Yuba River Citizens League and Teran Baker, senior at Nevada Union High School and standout student in the sciences. We also acknowledged the many other local women in STEM fields, including:
- Science educators in our local schools, including the Nevada Union teacher who nominated Teran, Alexandra McDowell
- The many women on staff at Sierra Streams Institute
- Other women on staff at South Yuba River Citizens League
- Staff members here at the County, including Community Development Agency Director Trish Tillotson and Environmental Health Director Amy Irani, our Public Health Officer Dr. Sherilynn Cooke, Public Health nurses, Public Health communicable disease staff, Behavioral Health staff and contractors, and the Teen Clinic in Truckee
- Carrie Monohan, PhD river scientist who is a leader at Sierra Fund
- Jo Ann Fites-Kaufman, 25 years in natural resources science and management
- Bernadette Bezy, National Ecosystem Sciences Technical Leader - 22 years of environmental compliance in California, the western US, and Latin America
- Local medical professionals, and more.
