Girls Inc. at the YWCA of Minneapolis launches Eureka! Program

June 25, 2015

Did you know that a 2012 study found that women make up only 31% of degrees awarded in STEM fields—even though women comprise almost 60% of today’s college attendees?This summer, a group of energetic 8^th grade girls are starting the first leg of a powerful program—Girls Inc. Eureka!   This group of “Eurekans”—as they are known—are strong, smart, and bold!Girls Inc. Eureka! is a STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Math) based approach to engaging and empowering 8^th-12^th grade girls in a cohort model over five years so they see themselves as going to college and becoming vital members of the future workforce. The program includes STEM education, leadership and personal development, sports and swimming lessons.Girls Inc. Eureka! recruits a cohort of girls in 8^th grade with an interest in STEM and works with them year-round over the next five years to support them as they complete high school and enter college.  The majority of programming takes place over the summer when girls attend intensive programming located on a college campus that is focused on STEM education and leadership development. The University of Minnesota’s College of Science and Engineering is our partner in this program.The goal is to support girls, many of whom are first generation college students, in believing in their ability to be successful in college and then understanding and following the steps that will lead to that success.  The Eurekans are in their second week of their summer component—where they will spend a total of 5 weeks on the University of Minnesota campus doing a variety of labs led by professors and students.  During week one the Eurekans experienced an introduction to tissue engineering, learned about nanotechnology and neuro biotechnology.  Eureka! programming provides girls with the Girls Inc. Experience—where girls participate in hands-on activities in an all-girl environment.  Girls Inc. believes in the rights of girls—we believe that girls have a right to be themselves and to resist gender stereotypes.  The STEM world has a place for our girls—and our girls are ready to JOIN IN!Watch back here for regular posts and updates on what’s happening within Girls Inc. Eureka!