The End of a STEM Identity Pathway: A Girls in Science Program Falls Prey to Current Ideology

This article provides a compelling argument using qualitative analysis for the longitudinal impact of an all-girls’ summer camp that was recently canceled due to an Executive Order from the Federal government. This paper will discuss: (1) the history of the program, including its changing funding sources over time; (2) the support of the local community that sustained this program; and (3) the ways in which the program influenced girls long after they graduated from middle and high school. Since 2006, 611 girls have participated in the Girls in STEM (GIS) summer camp. Surveys to alumnae were sent in 2022 and 2024, and 81 GIS alumnae responded. Many of these women explained how the camp helped them to see STEM career options that they were not aware of; improved their confidence that they could pursue careers that were male-dominated; and provided them with peers and mentors who became part of their network. The article concludes with a discussion of the cancellation of the program and the potential consequences of that decision.