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This past Monday, I wrote a quick post on Black Girl College Prep's Instagram account asking whether people were more interested in STEM or STEAM while comparing the two.
STEM is an interdisciplinary educational method emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and math.
At the same time, STEAM adds an A for arts (my favorite!). Both paths have distinct benefits and create a perfect balance.
In the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, Black women have continuously torn down barriers, dispelled prejudices, and made remarkable contributions that influence our world. From pioneering research to creative innovations, their stories serve as inspiring reminders of perseverance, tenacity, and the unlimited potential that we all possess.
Dr. Mae Jemison is one such trailblazer, the first Black woman to travel to space on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992. As a physician, engineer, and astronaut, Dr. Jemison's trip to space highlights the intersection of STEM disciplines and the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to dream beyond this world.
Then there is Dr. Christine Darden, who has also significantly contributed to aeronautical research at NASA. Her work on supersonic flying and sonic boom prediction improved our knowledge of aerospace engineering. It paved the way for future generations of Black women in STEM.
Dr. Kimberly Bryant, a computer scientist, is leading the quest for diversity and inclusion with her nonprofit, Black Girls CODE. Dr. Bryant's work aims to motivate young Black girls to become technology leaders and innovators, tear down barriers, and open opportunities for the next generation of STEM enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson's innovative theoretical physics research opened the path for endless technical improvements, such as caller ID, fiber optic cables, and solar cells. Dr. Jackson's successes are tremendous!!! As the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. from MIT and the first woman to head the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission, she is the epitome of #blackgirlmagic. Her track record and resume motivate us all to level up and strive for excellence.
These are just a handful of the many exceptional Black women breaking stereotypes and making their mark in STEM.
Shall we talk about the arts? Yes! There are countless Black heavy hitters in the arts—too many to name, but a few visionaries in the arts include Shonda Rhimes, Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae, Kara Walker, and even artists such as H.E.R., whose innovative work in television, film producers, screenwriters, and songwriters has changed the entertainment scene.
Ava's activism and heart for equity, as well as series like When They See Us and film documentaries like 13th, have sparked national debate about disparities and atrocities affecting Black communities, while Shonda and Issa's complex, multidimensional characters on screen continue to reflect the diversity and richness of the human experience and subsets of the Black experience, challenging stereotypes and amplifying diverse voices in mainstream media.
From HER's melodious tone and guitar talents to Kara Walker's modern silhouettes, paints, and prints, they encourage girls to explore the vulnerable, creative aspects of their skills and potential.
Their stories and gifts are beacons of hope and inspiration, reminding us that no idea or ambition is too big to achieve.
As we continue celebrating Black History Month and beyond, let us honor these trailblazers' legacy by elevating their voices and talents, supporting their work, and advocating for diversity and inclusion in STEM and STEAM disciplines. May these stories serve as a reminder of the power of resilience, the value of representation, and Black women's limitless ability to shape the future of innovation and creativity.
So here's to Black women in STEM and STEAM who continue to defy stereotypes, challenge boundaries, and transform the world—one innovation or masterpiece at a time. What will be your contribution to STEM and STEAM?
Keep creating and innovating!
Xo,
Coach Rahk
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