At Pace, we seek to expand our girls’ understanding of what is possible. There are more women than ever in positions of power than ever before; from Congress to corporate board rooms to NASA astronauts. Young women must have role models across all professional sectors.
But “You can’t be what you can’t see,” said Astronaut Sally Ride, the first American woman in space.
NASA rover operator Vandi Verma hopes the critical role women played in the latest Mars mission will inspire a new generation to pursue careers in a sector traditionally dominated by men. Verma is currently operating the Perseverance rover on Mars.
As we continue to offer opportunities for our girls to explore their potential, Pace Polk’s STEAM initiative is a prime example of an equitable learning opportunity. Nick and Ashley Gibson Barnett donated $30,000 to Pace Polk for the Center to create a science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) room.
The purpose of this space is to allow our girls to nurture and explore interests in STEAM. It includes a 35-mm camera, photography and video studio, 3-D printer, computers with software for creating in the space, and even a set of virtual reality goggles. These resources have the potential to foster a new generation of young women interested in STEAM.
Projects Like the Pace Polk STEAM initiative push our girls to confront and broaden what they believe they can achieve, allowing them to dream big and create even bigger. By giving our girls the resources they need, we embolden them to discover their passions and envision a world where all girls and young women have Power, in a Just and Equitable society.