Katherine Selai--Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - Wednesday was International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) Mustangs show appreciation and acknowledgement to women pursuing and guiding the future women to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
There are many women in the school’s staff and student body who are engaged in a STEM career path. The staff help encourage young women to continue into STEM fields. Clubs such as Girls in White Coats focus on the young women on a medical pathway.
LRHS science teacher Alexandra Wilcoxson is guiding the next generation of women in STEM. She is the Science Fair coordinator, sponsor for Girls in White Coats and is involved with our Science National Honors Society (SNHS).
Wilcoxson shared, “by showcasing the vast opportunities available, we aim to inspire more women to pursue these fields and volunteering at activities in the community. Our presence inspires young girls as they see older girls working together and enjoying the STEM field.”
Stay updated on more LRHS news by following us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or follow the Mustangs Ahead Podcast on Spotify
As staff such as Wilcoxson inspire young women to pursue careers in the STEM field, these young women inspire the generation after them to pursue STEM as well. The young women in Girls in White Coats and NSHS, share their experiences, mentor, and inspire the future women in STEM.
“Girls in White Coats and SNHS can support and inspire future women in science by serving as role models and mentors, sharing their experiences and successes, and participating in outreach programs that promote STEM education among younger students.” said Wilcoxson.
These clubs allow young women to feel more comfortable and confident to pursue STEM careers. These clubs properly guide and prepare the young women with firsthand experiences and guidance from mentors.
Girls in White Coats President Savannah Chumbley stated, “The main goal of Girls in White Coats is to promote accessible education about medicine to all of our members. Accessible education is a luxury, and I am so grateful that we can utilize it in our school, especially in a world where quality education is not guaranteed.”
LRHS also has two Mustangs who made it to the Florida State Science and Engineering Fair, Selma Onus and Sophia Mitchell.