NCWIT is the National Center for Women & Information Technology, a national coalition of over 450 prominent corporations, academic institutions, government agencies, and non-profits working to strengthen the IT workforce and cultivate technology innovation by increasing the participation of women. The NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing recognizes young women at the high-school level for their computing-related achievements and interests. Winners are recognized at an awards reception on Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at the University of Connecticut Alumni Center.  This year, we have 15 winners and 3 runner-ups coming from high schools throughout the state.

In 2007, NCWIT began recognizing girls for their aspirations and achievements in computing via the NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing.  By generating visibility for technical young women the award encourages continued interest in computing, increases awareness of the gender gap in computing and IT, and emphasizes at a personal level the importance of women’s participation in computing.  Seanice DeShields, director of the Office of Diversity Initiatives in the School of Business and chair of the Connecticut Aspirations in Computing Committee says, “Recognizing the use of technology and computing by young women not only serves to close the gender gap but it’s also building the next generation of IT leaders and professionals.  The work these young ladies are doing is amazing and I’m privileged to be a part of this organization that supports them in their achievements.”

To be a part of the CT Aspirations in Computing Committee or to be a corporate sponsor for the awards reception in March, please contact Seanice.DeShields@business.uconn.edu.