IGNITE Virtual Mini-Panel at Paschal Sherman Indian School (Grades 6-9)

 

On November 25, 2024, 20 sixth to ninth-grade students from Paschal Sherman Indian School joined an IGNITE Virtual Mini-Panel, showcasing their curiosity and eagerness to learn about STEM careers. The event featured a dynamic lineup, including Fethiye Starmach, Implementation Engineer at Oracle, as the Lead Panelist, joined by Andrea Tapia, Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, and Andrea Calderon, Software Engineer at Bluefish Concepts. Maya Lake, Senior Associate Software Engineer at Activision, skillfully facilitated the discussion, while Michelle Beltran, Director of the Center for Occupational and Environmental Health at UC Berkeley, provided technical support as the Tech Host.

Students actively participated, asking insightful questions and connecting with the inspiring Panelists. The participating Educator, Liz Bremner, praised the event, noting it was a fantastic experience for the students and expressing gratitude to the Panelists for their contributions.

This event successfully highlighted the power of representation and encouragement, leaving a lasting impact on the students and underscoring the importance of breaking barriers in STEM fields.

This event taught me about STEM, which I probably would have never learned otherwise.”

6th Grade IGNITE Student

“Today inspired me to try new things.”

6th Grade IGNITE Student

It inspired me to join STEM and learn more about technology and computer science.”

7th Grade IGNITE Student

I appreciated the volunteers showing us to be confident in STEM and to take any opportunity to learn about STEM”

7th Grade IGNITE Student

STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...

67%

INTERESTED IN STEM

62%

GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE

Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:

  • Fethiye Starmach
  • Andrea Tapia
  • Andrea Calderon

 

  • Maya Lake
  • Michelle Beltran
  • Liz Bremner

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 igniteworldwide.org.

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