New initiative aims to inspire girls, young women in STEM

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) – The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is launching a new initiative to promote interest in science, technology, engineering and math among girls and young women. The Lilly Girls and Young Women in STEM initiative is funded by a gift from the Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly and Co. Foundation.

The museum says it will leverage its STEM assets to develop and implement programs that provide in-depth interactions for smaller groups of girls and young women.

“The generous gift from the Lilly Foundation will allow us to spark interest and encourage ongoing learning for girls and young women to help them understand how science, technology, engineering and math careers can serve as powerful ways they can help solve complex problems in all aspects of life,” said Dr. Jeffrey Patchen, president of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

The museum says it is critical for girls to see and learn about real-life female role models in STEM. The nonprofit institution says the initiative’s resources, inspirational speakers and events will foster interest in ongoing, sustainable and long-term interactions with STEM mentors.

“Equitable opportunities for children in science, technology, engineering and math – both in the classroom and through hands-on educational experiences – are essential to the long-term success of our company and our community. This collaboration with The Children’s Museum will help to ensure we develop a diverse and inquisitive next generation of scientists,” said Tiffany Benjamin, president of the Lilly Foundation.

The museum says it has been focused on curating STEM interest for more than 50 years and offers several STEM-based programs as well as a paleontology lab, an archaeology wet lab and activities and events throughout the year.