SAN MARCOS — Palomar’s Empowered Women Alliance spotlighted the prolific advancements made by women in STEM at the Women’s History Month festival.
The Alliance was founded by Dr. Hosanna Sadat Ahadi in 2020 and is open to anyone in Palomar’s community. The organization focuses on advocating for equality and social justice in education, while providing members with a safe space to learn and feel empowered.
Photos of current and former women in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) were displayed throughout the event. Many of whom did not initially receive credit for their inventions or impacts. One of them was Katherine Johnson, a NASA mathematician who was the first woman to receive an author credit in a flight division research report.
The fair, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 10 in front of the clock tower, featured many organizations and on-campus clubs that put women at the forefront. Yoga and culinary therapy were also available.
The Social Work Club is new to campus this semester. Their focus is on volunteer work, outreach and advocacy. Social work is relevant and affects everyone, according to club member Madeline Oakley. Members handed out cards with information on women’s resources throughout San Diego.
At the fair, students were encouraged to participate in different science crafts. With just white school glue, shaving cream, baking soda and contact solution, students were able to make Fluffy Slime, which seemed to be a fan favorite.
Planned Parenthood also had a booth at the event. Representatives were educating students on the organization’s services and the importance of women’s health.
“You’re never too young to start your female health care,” said a Planned Parenthood volunteer.
The Alliance chooses one person each year who “Embodies diversity, inclusion, equality and anti-racism” to receive the Woman of the Year Award, according to Dr. Ahadi. This year’s recipient was Professor Emerita Cindy Anfinson. Anfinson is a former Palomar mathematics professor who also acted as the Activity Director of a Title V/STEM grant that Palomar shared with CSUSM. This grant helps Hispanic and low-income students to succeed in STEM fields.
After receiving her award, Anfinson gave a Keynote speech on her life and career, highlighting those who impacted her along the way. She also went over data regarding metrics of women in STEM and had the audience engage in a math craft.
Later in her speech, Anfinson used Edward Lorenz’s butterfly effect as an analogy for community college, emphasizing that two-year schools lay a strong foundation for a future in STEM.
The festival concluded with a screening of Theodore Melfi’s film “Hidden Figures.” This film continues to bring new eyes to women in STEM while honoring those who shaped the field early and paved the way for others to follow.