When you were a kid, what did you tell your parents you wanted to be when you grew up? Maybe a doctor, a firefighter or an astronaut?
Well, when Jackie Lomax's 10-year old daughter, Lauren, joined her during a routine dental visit, the unexpected experience proved to be life changing for the both of them. In this article from the Chicago Sun Times, Reporter Tina Akouris explores the makings of a program that encourages young woman to further pursue their interests in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
"I did not want that moment (in the dentist's office) to be a weak parent's moment," said Jackie Lomax, the founder and executive director for Girls 4 Science and a 1998 University of St. Francis (USF) graduate. "In 2009 I was unemployed and I used my down time to establish the nonprofit. It was something that I hoped would last with (Lauren) and support and encourage her with female advocates and college students."
As of Fall 2013, 88 girls are enrolled in the program — 28 of which are through USF.
