Middle Tennessee State University's annual Tennessee Girls in STEM Conference has been a beacon of inspiration for young women, igniting their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This transformative event has been a driving force in encouraging the next generation of STEM leaders, providing them with hands-on experiences and invaluable insights from industry experts and accomplished alumni.

Unlocking the Potential of Tomorrow's STEM Trailblazers

Hands-on Experiences Ignite Passion

The 28th edition of the Tennessee Girls in STEM Conference at MTSU was a resounding success, drawing in over 150 middle and high school students eager to explore the vast possibilities within the STEM fields. From "intense" to "amazing," the reactions of the attendees underscored the profound impact of the event's hands-on activities, which allowed them to delve into the real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.Across various MTSU science buildings and the McWherter Learning Resources Center, the conference provided a dynamic platform for students to engage with faculty, industry partners, and MTSU alumni, who shared their passion and expertise. Caitlin Foley, Alyssa Logan, Jessica Young, and Keely O'Brien, MTSU faculty members, captivated the young attendees with their insights into fields ranging from animal science and horse science to dairy farm management and fermentation science.

Inspiring the Next Generation of STEM Leaders

The conference's keynote speaker, MTSU alumna Emily Oppmann, embodied the transformative power of the event. Oppmann, a certified genetic counselor specializing in oncology genetics, shared her journey and encouraged the attendees "to find your passion and go and make a positive difference." Her talk on genetics and genetic counseling, followed by a lively question-and-answer session, ignited the students' curiosity and showcased the diverse career paths within the STEM fields.Oppmann's own experience as a former attendee and volunteer at the conference underscored the lasting impact of the event. Her path from a participant to a successful STEM professional serves as a testament to the conference's ability to inspire and empower young women to pursue their dreams in the STEM disciplines.

Fostering a Supportive Community

The Tennessee Girls in STEM Conference at MTSU is more than just a one-day event; it is a testament to the university's commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for young women in STEM. The conference's partnerships with organizations like the Power of One campus initiative to end gender-based violence further demonstrate MTSU's holistic approach to empowering and uplifting its students.Through initiatives like the clothing drive to benefit the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center of Rutherford County and the Thankful Thursday food drive, the conference extends its reach beyond the academic realm, addressing the diverse needs of the community and fostering a sense of compassion and social responsibility among the participants.

A Transformative Experience for All

The Tennessee Girls in STEM Conference at MTSU is more than just a one-time event; it is a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impact on the lives of its participants. From the hands-on activities that ignite their passion to the inspiring stories of STEM professionals like Emily Oppmann, the conference empowers young women to dream big and pursue their aspirations in the STEM fields.As the conference continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its participants, it remains a beacon of hope and opportunity, inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders to make a positive difference in the world.