DigiGirlz Returns to Wilmington University’s Dover Campus, May 8, 2018
Hands on Tech Day for 8th and 9th Grade Girls

DOVER, Del. — Girls in the 8th and 9th grades are invited to spend a fun-filled day learning about careers in technology and getting an inside glimpse of what it might be like to work in the technical fields. DigiGirlz Day is designed to encourage young women to explore the possibilities available in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).

“More than ever, Delaware’s ability to compete economically is based on our ability to innovate and ensure our workforce has the technology-based skills demanded by today’s employers,” said Governor John Carney. “DigiGirlz provides a great opportunity for young women to explore a variety of STEM careers paths. I am excited that Delaware again is partnering with Microsoft, Dell, JP Morgan Chase and others to engage Delaware’s young women to explore technical careers.”

“Part of my job as CIO is to work to ensure the cyber workforce of tomorrow is available to develop and protect our information systems. That is why I get so fired up about programs like DigiGirlz that offer a free and fun way for young women to explore different STEM fields in an enjoyable and encouraging environment,” said Delaware Chief Information Officer James Collins. “It is imperative to plant the seed early and provide students a variety of opportunities to discover and grow into their potential. We appreciate all of our partners who have come together in support of this initiative to inspire girls to pursue careers in STEM.”

DigiGirlz is May 8, 2018 at Wilmington University’s Dover Campus starting at 8:30 am. It is free and open to 8th and 9th grade girls (ages 13-15) in Delaware public, private, charter and home schools. New this year are special sessions for teachers and other adult chaperones interested in tech education. Individual students are also encouraged to participate. Pre-registration is mandatory and lunch will be provided.

This year’s DigiGirlz Day features several different career track explorations including: Game Creation, Cyber Defense, CyberStart, NSA Day of Cyber and more. Girls will participate in hands-on activities including writing code for a simple video game, exploring the science behind creating beauty products, or learning about the tools professionals use to fight computer hackers. New this year will be roundtable discussions with female professionals in the STEM-related careers.

Recognizing that young women historically shy away from STEM education, especially as they enter their high school years, DigiGirlz is created to address some of the myths and misconceptions about careers in more technical industries. Through lively discussion and interactive activities, the event is aimed at encouraging young women to put aside concerns about their ability to pursue education and careers in technical fields.

DigiGirlz is sponsored by Delaware’s Department of Technology and Information, Microsoft, the Delaware Center for Educational Technology, Wilmington University, Delaware Department of Education, JP Morgan Chase, and Dell.

Registration information can be found at https://digiknow.dti.delaware.gov/pages/DigiGirlz/2018/default.shtml

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About the Delaware Department of Technology and Information
The Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is the state’s central IT organization, chartered to deliver core services to other state organizations and exercise governance over the technology direction and investments of the state. DTI provides enterprise services that enable other organizations to effectively fulfill their missions.
www.dti.delaware.gov

DigiGirlz Program Contacts:
Claudette Martin-Wus, DTI
(302) 739-9636, claudette.martin-wus@state.de.us
Elayne Starkey, DTI
(302) 739-9631, elayne.starkey@delaware.gov

About Wilmington University
Wilmington University is a private, non-profit institution committed to providing career-oriented, traditional and online associate, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs. The Wilmington University difference starts with our flexible, year-round class schedules, full online learning capabilities, and one of the lowest tuitions in the tri-state region. Combined with our intense focus on academic excellence and individualized attention to our students in our degree and certificate programs, the WilmU difference is reflected in our students’ achievements and our alumni’s successes. For more information, contact Wilmington University at 302-356-INFO (4636), via email at infocenter@wilmu.edu, or visit www.wilmu.edu.

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