The Association for Women in Science, Inc. (AWIS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to achieving equity and full participation of women in all areas of science, technology, and engineering. The Chicago Area Chapter of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS Chicago) was founded in 1978 as a local chapter of the national organization. Our national organization has over 5000 women scientists and other individuals who support women in science. The Chicago Area Chapter comprises over 200 people representing government, corporate, private, and academic institutions. The specific objectives and goals of the association are to:
- Provide opportunity for communication among women in science
- Promote equal employment opportunities for women in science
- Educate women about seeking careers in science
- Encourage women to achieve professional advancement
- Recognize the achievements of women in science
- Promote employment flexibility to meet the needs of women in science
- Cooperate with national, state, and local organizations that share common objectives with AWIS-CAC
- Publicize the activities of women in the scientific community
History of AWIS
The following is an excerpt from the AWIS National Web Page:
“The Association for Women in Science (AWIS) is a nonprofit organization established in 1971, dedicated to achieving equity and full participation for women in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. AWIS has over 5,000 members in fields spanning the life and physical sciences, mathematics, social science, and engineering. Over 50% of AWIS members have doctorates in their respective fields, and hold positions at all levels of industry, academe, and government.
As part of its efforts to promote the entrance and advancement of women in science, AWIS has a long-standing commitment to fostering the careers of women science professionals. Events at the 76 local chapters across the country facilitate networking between women scientists at all levels and in all career paths. AWIS chapters also encourage the participation of girls and women in science by sponsoring educational activities in schools and communities.
At the national level, AWIS publishes a variety of materials to inform girls and women about science programs and women’s issues, including the quarterly AWIS Magazine. The organization serves as a voice for women in science by helping to shape national policy through Congressional testimony and by participating in a variety of national coalitions.”
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