UW Women in STEM Own It! Celebration Transitions to Networking Event

The eighth annual Own It! Celebration for women who make a difference in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at the University of Wyoming is transitioning from a traditional awards ceremony to a networking event.

The Own It! Celebration, formerly known as the Own It! Awards, is scheduled Thursday, Feb. 20, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Engineering and Education Research Building atrium/lobby.

Organized by Women in Science, Math and Engineering, Own It! strives to recognize women in STEM at UW. The celebration serves to help increase the visibility of an often-overlooked group in STEM, which can be fundamental in encouraging women to participate in science.

“This networking event, hosted by Women in STEM and open to everyone, celebrates the achievements of individuals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics at the University of Wyoming and in the surrounding community,” says Megan Candelaria, director of the Science Kitchen and co-director of the Wyoming NASA Space Grant Consortium. “Join us for an evening featuring a speaker presentation, engaging speed networking sessions and opportunities to connect over hors d'oeuvres and beverages.”

Jane Zelikova, co-founder of 500 Women Scientists, will be the event’s guest speaker. The evening also will feature a roundtable networking activity, along with time for mingling and enjoying appetizers. On-site child care, including STEM activities provided by the Innovation Wyrkshop, will be available.

“Since the format has changed this year, we are not accepting nominations for award categories,” Candelaria says. “Instead, we invite attendees to submit a short bio and/or highlight their accomplishments.”

Attendees are encouraged to fill out a highlights card to showcase personal accomplishments and contributions, which will be displayed during the event. To submit a short biography and/or career highlights, go here. To RSVP, go here.

For more information, call Candelaria at (307) 314-2127 or email megdiane@uwyo.edu.