Catalyst 2009 & 15th Anniversary Celebration

May 26, 2009

More than 150 guests helped us celebrate our 15th Anniversary!

Inclusion of women and girls in science and engineering should not be based on luck, and the opportunity to explore is paramount, said Wellesley College President Kim Bottomly in her opening address for our 15th Anniversary Celebration and Catalyst Award Ceremony on May 26th.

Mayor Denise Simmons, City Councillors Fred Fantini and Tim Toomey (also a state rep) shared a few words during the reception about the need for programs like ours. Remarks from our Catalyst Awardees Dean Evelynn Hammonds and Dr. Lasrisa Schelkin emphasized the importance of mentors and networks in creating conditions for the success of girls and underrepresented groups. Xconomy reports on the Catalyst Award winners here.

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Dr. Susan Bailey, who authored the AAUW research document that prompted the creation of Science Club for Girls, presented co-founders Beth O'Sullivan and Mary McGowan with a signed copy of "How schools shortchange girls" to commemorate the 15th year of our founding.

Scholarships honoring the co-founders' fathers were given to Eunice Rodriguez and Daniel' Gaines, who will be graduating high school this year.

Our girls charmed the attendees with their displays, introductions, and a video documentary, created by the Media Team in collaboration with PressPassTV. (See the video here).

Thanks to our event committee, especially Shayne Gilbert, honorary committee chair Dr. Lydia Villa-Komaroff and to our many event sponsors and auction item donors. In addition to creating many wonderful memories, we raised over $37,000 to support our programs! Thank you so much for your support!