On April 13, 2018, the College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech University recognized LA state high school students and one teacher for its 6th Annual National Center for Women & Information Technology awards ceremony. The NCWIT Aspirations in Computing (AiC) provides a long-term community for female technologists, from K-12 through higher education and beyond, encouraging persistence in computing through continuous engagement and ongoing encouragement at each pivotal stage of their educational and professional development. Thousands of technically inclined girls and women are offered opportunities to learn through computing-related activities, network at virtual and in-person meetups, receive visibility for technical achievements, and grow leadership and entrepreneurial skills by leading computing outreach programs in their local communities. Additionally, they gain exclusive access to scholarships, internships, and job opportunities. All of these benefits are made possible by NCWIT Alliance Members, AiC peers in the network, and adult influencers who serve as volunteers and mentors. This collective investment is making a considerable and sustainable impact on future technology and innovation by increasing women’s meaningful participation. The NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing builds a talent pool for the growing technical workforce and helps academic and corporate organizations celebrate diversity in computing by honoring young women at the high school level for their computing-related achievements and interests. Award recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing; leadership ability; academic history; and plan for post-secondary education. The Aspirations in Computing Educator Award identifies outstanding educators who play a pivotal role in encouraging young women to explore their interest in computing and technology, and recognizes these educators for their efforts to promote gender equity in computing.
Area students that were recognized for this honor were two honorable mentions Ms. Anna VandeVen from Tensas Academy and Ms. Stephanie Mayberry from Destrehan High School. Four winners Ms. Lyndsey Bromfield from Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy – East, Joshi Ishwari from Baton Rouge High School, Ziying He (National Honorable Mention) from Baton Rouge Magnet High School and Deepti Vaidyanathan (National Honorable Mention) from Baton Rouge High School. The educator award went to Ms. Rebecca Nguyen who teaches at Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy – East.
Area students that were recognized for this honor were two honorable mentions Ms. Anna VandeVen from Tensas Academy and Ms. Stephanie Mayberry from Destrehan High School. Four winners Ms. Lyndsey Bromfield from Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy – East, Joshi Ishwari from Baton Rouge High School, Ziying He (National Honorable Mention) from Baton Rouge Magnet High School and Deepti Vaidyanathan (National Honorable Mention) from Baton Rouge High School. The educator award went to Ms. Rebecca Nguyen who teaches at Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy – East.