Reading Science Center's Sisters in STEM Program Awarded $10K Grant

From Reading Science Center

Sisters in STEM, a program of the Reading Science Center, received a grant of $10,000 from the American Association of University Women (AAUW) through the work of the Reading Branch of AAUW.

Sisters in STEM is a weekly program offering hands-on science experiments, collaborative problem-solving, and connections with female STEM professionals that build confidence and curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and math for girls in grades four to six. Each session centers on an interactive investigation that introduces core scientific concepts while encouraging experimentation and creative thinking. Activities may include building electrical circuits, exploring chemical reactions, conducting dissections, designing engineering challenges, or delving into environmental science topics.

“Reading AAUW members are very excited to be working with the Reading Science Center on Sisters in STEM (SIS) to introduce young women to STEM,” said Karen Parish, Reading Branch President. The Reading Branch of AAUW has supported local education through many programs over its 100 years. Reading Branch’s current scholarship program, funded through Berks Book Bonanza, provides funds for both graduate students and non-traditional students.

Reading Science Center Executive Director, Ralia Vardaxis, expressed appreciation for this meaningful support. “The American Association of University Women and the Reading Science Center share a common mission to expanding access to STEM and inspiring the next generation of girls to explore these fields. We believe that fostering a love of science at an early age is the key to future curiosity, innovation, and academic success. We welcome this partnership with AAUW, who will be contributing volunteers to our Sisters in STEM program, as well as their generous financial support.”

About Reading Science Center

The Reading Science Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in downtown Reading. Its vibrant 7,000-square-foot space, featuring STEM exhibits, provides educational and entertaining hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math experiences for families, schools, and the Greater Reading community. The Reading Science Center is open to the public Mondays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

About the American Association of University Women

The mission of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. At the state and national level, AAUW provides learning experiences designed to help women succeed in the workplace, and it advocates for women’s education and health.