Pictured: Dr. Diana Fagan is presented a plaque in honor of her 24 years of service

April 30, 2022 saw the return of around 100 young girls from the region to YSU’s campus for the annual Edward W. Powers Women in STEM (WiSTEM) Career Day, now in its 24th year. 

Participants enjoyed interactive conversations and hands-on demonstrations revolving around careers in STEM fields, all with the goal of encouraging young women to consider pursuing these areas in the future. It remains a fact that, while women make up about 50% of the population of those pursuing a college degree, the number who choose a STEM field falls significantly below other majors.

This year’s event also marked the last one to be organized by WiSTEM Career Day co-founder Dr. Diana Fagan, who retires at the end of this summer. Fagan was honored for her 24-year commitment to the program with a plaque. She recalled the original intent of starting the program, with co-founder Dr. Courtenay Willis, to expose young girls to careers in STEM that they may never have considered, and how it has grown. The event gives them an opportunity to meet women in those STEM careers and ask questions. She also reflected on the great chance for connecting and networking for the women scientists and engineers who volunteer to participate.

Although Dr. Fagan will retire, WiSTEM will continue under the coordination of STEM Professional Services. The College is grateful for the strong foundation built by Dr. Fagan and her team and looks forward to many more years of WiSTEM.