National STEM organization finds new home in West Michigan

During a time when there is a national push for students to enroll in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, an organization new to West Michigan is striving to recruit and retain women into these subjects.

Following an 18-month collaboration, Karen Gipson, professor of physics at Grand Valley State University, and a team of students, deans, faculty and staff from Van Andel Institute and Hope College, have created a West Michigan chapter of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS).

AWIS is the largest multi-disciplinary organization that promotes women in STEM fields through advocacy, research and professional development. AWIS reaches more than 20,000 professionals worldwide.

Gipson, AWIS-WM president, said STEM fields can ultimately benefit from including diverse perspectives.

"I believe that the future of science depends on building a strong base of inclusion," Gipson said. "Women still face discrimination, but it's subtler than in the past. AWIS has been a strong advocate for non-discriminatory workplace policies and practices for more than 40 years."

The focuses of the AWIS-WM will primarily be networking, education and service. Gipson said the group's long-term strategic plan includes establishing a K-12 outreach program, advocating for fairness and increased awareness of gender issues in the workplace, and providing networking opportunities, tools and resources for women in STEM fields.

To begin its outreach efforts, AWIS-WM will host its first event, "Achieving Success Through Implementation of Effective Mentoring Strategies," on September 14 and 15 at Grand Valley, Van Andel Institute and Hope College. This workshop will provide individuals in STEM with tools and techniques for implementing successful mentoring relationships.

For a full schedule and to register, visit the event's website.

AWIS membership is open to anyone. Students can join AWIS-WM for only $5.

For more information, contact Gipson at [email protected]. or (616) 331-2319.