NEW YORK, NY, September 23, 2024 – Preparing the next generation of female scientists, doctors, inventors and changemakers is essential if we want to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. That’s why the American Heart Association is working to close the equality gap in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) through an educational program called STEM Goes Red. The program draws from our strong legacy of science, education and discovery to help propel young women into rewarding careers in STEM.
Returning to NYC in March 2025, STEM Goes Red will inspire young women to pursue rewarding careers in STEM fields, while also putting their own health at the forefront. Students will gain first-hand experience, connect with inspiring professionals and learn about new career paths they never dreamed of before. It’s our hope that once these students graduate, they will work alongside us to save and improve lives.
Leading the charge as Chair of STEM Goes Red is Liz Powitzky, Owner of 212 Degrees, a boutique coaching and leadership development consultancy. Liz evolved from a training specialist to a general partner at Edward Jones, gaining a deep understanding of a financial services firm. Liz’s true passion lies in partnering with senior leadership, guiding them through the highs and lows of their careers.
“As a parent of two children, I am deeply passionate about the STEM Goes Red campaign because I believe every child deserves the chance to dream big and break barriers,” said Ms. Powitzky. “Science, technology, engineering, and math are not just subjects—they are the keys to unlocking endless possibilities. I want to ensure that every young person, especially our daughters, has the opportunity to lead, innovate, and change the world for the better.”
Although women fill close to half of all the jobs in the U.S. economy, they hold only 27% of jobs in STEM fields. In fact, of 100 female students working toward a bachelor’s degree, only four will work in a STEM job 10 years after graduation, leading to persistent disparities in women’s health. By equipping and empowering young women to pursue STEM careers, we can ensure women are represented in critical sectors that impact health and well-being such as healthcare, research and technology.
The American Heart Association’s STEM Goes Red initiative was launched in 2017 as part of the Go Red for Women® movement, which for more than 20 years has served as a catalyst for change, improving women’s lives by advancing equitable research and care, advocating for inclusive health policies and raising awareness of women’s No. 1 health threat—cardiovascular disease.
“We invite all young women with a passion for STEM to reach out to our team and discover the limitless possibilities awaiting them,” encouraged Ms. Powitzky.
Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health and in, New York City, locally sponsored by Platform Sponsors Northwell Health and Bettina Equities. New York City STEM Goes Red is locally sponsored by Innovator Sponsors Infor and 212 Degrees LLC and Pioneer Sponsor Estée Lauder Companies.
For more information about STEM Goes Red and to register for the event, please visit 2024-2025 NYC STEM Goes Red.