Hi there,

Happy Women’s History Month! ⭐ While we celebrate women year-round at Girls Who Code, this month is about celebrating the women who have paved the way, and those who are redefining what’s possible today. Women have been behind some of the biggest breakthroughs in STEM, from Ada Lovelace, the first computer programmer, to Katherine Johnson, whose calculations sent astronauts into space.

Today, we’re rolling out the red carpet for a few women modern-day innovators who are making history right now. 

And the awards go to….🏆

Best Breakthrough in Science: Jennifer Doudna and Emanuelle Charpentier! These trailblazing scientists revolutionized medicine with their development of CRISPR/Cas9, a gene editing technology that makes it possible to rewrite DNA and treat genetic diseases, forever changing the future of healthcare. Their work earned them the 2020 Nobel Prize in chemistry. 

Best Space Mission Leader: Diana Trujillo! As the first Latina to lead a NASA space mission, her work on the Mars Perseverance Rover is just one way she’s paving the way for future generations of women in space exploration. Diana proves that the sky isn’t the limit!

Best Advocate in AI Ethics: Timnit Gebru! A leader in AI ethics, Timnit is challenging the tech industry’s approach to algorithmic bias and pushing for more equitable, transparent technology. From advocating for diversity in AI research to holding Big Tech accountable, she’s ensuring that artificial intelligence serves everyone.

Want to meet more women shaping STEM today? Join us on Instagram every Wednesday in March at 12:30 PM ET for inspiring conversations with women leading the industry today!

STAY IN THE LOOP WITH GWC

👀 Miss the Early Decision Deadline? The Summer Programs Application is open until April 11th—apply now to dive into coding, build practical skills for college and career, and make friends for life. High school girls and non-binary students, including alums, can choose between two exciting program options that fit different interests and schedules—no coding experience or fees required!

💰 The College Loops Fund is BACK! With College Loops, you can claim $250 per semester for your activities! Looking to level up at a conference or book a speaker? Want to grab study snacks for the group or plan a Spring-themed trip or activity? Request your funds today! *To qualify for the Loops Fund, you must be part of an active College Loop. To start a Loop at your school, click here!

THE LATEST BUZZ

THIS CLUBS FACILITATOR IS PRESIDENTIAL 🏅–Congratulations to middle school science teacher, Stacey Zaback​​​​​​, who earned the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching—the highest honor for K-12 STEM educators! From launching a Girls Who Code Club to bringing 3D printers and coding to her classroom, Stacey is redefining what STEM education looks like.

RULE BREAKERS: COMING TO THEATERS MARCH 7TH 🎞️–This powerful new film tells the true story of Afghanistan’s all-girls robotics team, a group of young innovators who defied odds to pursue their passion for STEM. Rule Breakers is a must-watch reminder of how education—and the teachers who champion it—can change the world. 

Yours in Sisterhood,
Girls Who Code Team