May 2023
IGNITE Worldwide’s CEO & Founder, Cathi Rodgveller, presented at the second annual PSCSTA/STEP CS lightning talk event, which took place on May 25, 2023. The goal of the night was to welcome educators into the world of teaching computer science and provide opportunities to connect with other teachers and organizations in the community through the Puget Sound Computer Science Teachers’ Association (PSCSTA), in collaboration with STEP CS.
Highlighting the mission of IGNITE Worldwide, Rodgveller shared with the attendees how the IGNITE Program provides a systematic solution to achieve gender equity in STEM. Throughout her presentation, she shared the value of providing girls and gender-diverse students with opportunities to interact with STEM professionals – particularly during the school day. She stated, “Every student deserves equal opportunities in STEM, and the IGNITE Program provides girls and gender-diverse students with experiences and support to encourage them to pursue a career in STEM – providing the path to equity.” At the very core of the IGNITE Program is accessibility and equity, breaking down the barriers and removing the roadblocks that stand in the way of exposure and challenge confidence to pursue STEM clubs, classes, and careers. The pivotal experiences facilitated by the IGNITE Program provide students with direct representation in STEM and allow them to hear the personal stories and career paths of professionals they can relate to.
Rodgveller also reinforced the important role that educators play in the futures of their students. She encouraged those present by sharing, “You all (educators) are such an important part of the experiences students get. By bringing the IGNITE Program to your school, you can change the lives of the girls and gender-diverse students in your classrooms.” IGNITE is proud to offer one-to-one support for educators interested in implementing the IGNITE Program at their school, for more information click here.
About IGNITE Worldwide
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at www.igniteworldwide.org.