This annual event, designed to showcase women making an impact in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields, featured 27 hands-on demonstrations and welcomed more than 2,500 visitors throughout the day.
Catawba’s group presented an interactive exhibit on ocean acidification, inviting visitors to explore how increased carbon dioxide levels alter ocean chemistry and affect marine life. With hands-on pH experiments and microscopy, the team helped attendees see the real-world consequences of human activity on marine ecosystems.
While Witalison, Hartwig, and Rushing have served as exhibitors at this event in past years, this was the first time students were able to participate, thanks to support from the Catawba College High Impact Practices grant program. Rushing said, “Being part of an event like this alongside our students reminds me that when we share our stories and experiences, we make the future of science stronger and more inclusive for everyone.”
Hartwig added, “I am so grateful to have this opportunity to not only highlight the vital role that women play in scientific discovery, but to be able to showcase the immense talents of our student scientists to a wider audience. Our STEM students embody the pillars that ground our institution, and in my opinion that of successful future scientists that will make their own unique contributions to the world; Scholarship with Character and Culture for Service. Events like this and the amazing outreach they provide to others of all ages and backgrounds are only the beginning of their impact on others. I cannot express the joy in seeing our students step into the role of not only a teacher, but that of a scientist and mentor for everyone interested in science.”
Witalison emphasized, “Having support from the College helps us take student learning beyond the classroom. It was incredibly meaningful to see our students gaining confidence as they helped young visitors explore their scientific curiosity. Femme in STEM serves as an outstanding event for promoting representation, inclusion, and belonging in STEM for the next generation of scientists.”
Jeslyn Nunez Romero, a junior environment and sustainability major, noted, “It was a highlight to engage with the community to focus on elevating women in science through the Femme in STEM outreach opportunity.”
Together, Catawba College biology faculty and STEM students demonstrated how hands-on outreach and mentorship can spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire the next generation of scientists. Their participation in Femme in STEM at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to inclusive, experiential learning that connects scientific scholarship with meaningful community engagement.
