Women have been earning doctorates in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) since the late 19th Century. Today, they represent over 40% of all STEM doctorate holders, though their presence and influence still vary widely across different disciplines. In this talk, we will explore the factors behind these statistics, examining societal trends that both support and challenge women’s success in STEM. Additionally, we will highlight the stories of pioneering women who are breaking barriers and shaping the future of these fields, inspiring the next generation of students to make their own mark in powerful ways.

Dr. Catherine A. Roberts is a Professor at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA. She teaches courses in mathematical modeling and environmental studies. She served as the first woman Executive Director of the American Mathematical Society and was the first woman Editor-in-Chief of the journal Natural Resource Modeling. She is a 2021 Fellow of the Association for Women in Mathematics.