Center Initiatives

WISE Women is designed to be a consortium of diverse women from all aspects of STEM that are using their voices and expertise to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion within the economic framework of the Greater New Orleans region.

The goals of WISE Women Nola are:
1. Provide opportunities for women, from pre-career to mid-career, to connect with like-minded individuals for fellowship, mentorship, and entrepreneurial opportunities
2. Develop a regional network of WISE Women whose goal is to further increase opportunities for women in STEM careers
3. Build a community of WISE Women whose ideas help to drive the conversation regarding women in STEM, underrepresented communities in STEM, and the future of STEM in the Greater New Orleans region
4. Diversify the STEM landscape by participating in mentorship opportunities with young women who are considering STEM careers
5. Develop a robust STEM mentorship program designed to expose, engage, and inspire young women entering STEM careers

The STEM Connect Internship is designed to connect STEM business and industry leaders in the Greater New Orleans region with HBCU STEM undergraduates to increase diversity, equity and inclusion in these employment areas where there is traditionally a deficit in underrepresented minority and gender groups. The STEM Connect Internship is seeking to pair juniors and seniors from the partnering institutions with STEM- related business in the region who are seeking qualified, diverse talent.

The goal of the program is to increase access to marketable, resume- building experience for the students, and also develop a graduation to employment pipeline for the participating businesses. Participants will gain real life experience in their field of study, receive professional mentorship, and acquire industry contacts to help facilitate their transition into the workforce.