The WICT Network Greater Philadelphia is pleased to announce the 2023 STEM Scholarship recipients. The scholarships were established by our Chapter with the goal of supporting undergraduate women in pursuing and succeeding in technical careers. Each recipient will receive a $3,000 scholarship to support them in their pursuit of an undergraduate degree in a STEM major. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math).
This year the field of applicants was very impressive, and the selection process was incredibly competitive and included the following questions.
· Describer the impact technology has had on your life.
· Describe your involvement in your community (Volunteering, School Programs, etc.)
· How do you envision using your degree and how will the WICT STEM scholarship support that vision?
· Is there something specific that organizations like WICT could do to encourage more interest in careers in STEM?
Each of the recipients presented well thought out answers and had very impressive accomplishments and goals that stood out to WICT Network Board. Please join me in congratulating 2023 WICT Network Greater Philadelphia STEM scholars as they come to the stage to receive their award certificate.
Recipient #1 - Trevor Gardner
Major: Computer Science
School: North Carolina Central University
Trevor shared, When I imagine my career, I get excited. I want to major in Computer Science with an emphasis in software development. I envision myself in various roles throughout media and entertainment.
For the past four years my weekends and summers were fun filled because I am a STEM Instructor, Teen Advisory Board Member and STEM Community Ambassador. I conduct STEM workshops for middle school girls and advise a non-profit organization about information, apps and technology that are relevant to teens.
Congratulations, Trevor!
Recipient #2 - Titilayo Olayinka (aka – “Titi”)
Major: Direct-Entry PharmD Program (B.S in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Health Studies + Doctor of Pharmacy)
School: Saint Joseph's University
Titi’s credits her parents and the Girls Inc Eureka! Program for sparking her interest in the field of STEM Titi shared, “As a member of Girls Inc. I have learned that being a woman in STEM is so much more than knowing how to solve the hardest mathematical or scientific problem. It is knowing when to need a break, having a voice, and reaching out to a support system”.
Throughout her high school career, Titi has participated in many volunteer activities within her community (e.g., facilitated math homework help and volunteered at cradles to crayons for their backpack-a-thon)
She participated in the five-year Girls Inc Eureka program, the Teen Photo photography program, a sister reading club, co-chaired student council, track & field, and a meteorology & videography program.
Congratulations, Titi!
Recipient #3 - Zyail Pritchett
Major: Human Biology
School: Michigan State University
My interest in a career in STEM was sparked by a combination of factors, including a fascination with science and technology, as well as a desire to make a positive impact on the world through innovation and problem-solving.
One of my most significant volunteer commitments has been with JDRF, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. I have been a volunteer with this organization for several years, working to raise awareness about diabetes and funding for critical research into better treatments and a cure for this disease.
As a volunteer, I have organized fundraising events, participated in awareness campaigns, and provided support to families and individuals affected by diabetes. This work has been incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to be a part of such an important cause.
Unfortunately, Zyail could not join us here today at Tech It Out. We have invited her to join us for a future WICT Network event.
Congratulations Zyail!