Notes from
Trish's Desk
August 5, 2010
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Greetings!
How do you know when you're a role model?
Studies have repeatedly shown how adults, particularly those of us from disenfranchised communities, have a positive impact on the education goals and career choices for children.
As an African-American woman, I know that I and people like me have the potential to inspire the next generation. I started TAF because I believed that we wouldn't see more women and people of color in STEM fields without role models leading the way.
In last week's e-blast, I pointed out that the young women who will take the court during the August 21 Storm Game Benefit are also role models for TAF kids. You might think it's a little off topic because I'm talking about basketball players, not STEM professionals. But the impact is the same.
These are no mere athletes. Yes, they are young and fast and striving to be the champs of the WNBA.
But these young women are also role models for future success because each of them (at least the ones raised in the US) has a college background. Each player's profile proudly notes their alma mater. Before pursuing their sports dreams, they knew that Degrees Matter.
It is important to hold up examples like this because you can never really count on who our kids will turn to as a role model.
What if a TAF student saw you as a role model?
How would you inspire them?
As summer vacation quickly comes to an end, our students are preparing for another year in TechStart and TAF Academy. They could use your help. Consider volunteering your time:
- Contribute after school in a TechStart classroom
- Help as an individual or with a group of coworkers in the Adopt-a-Class program
- Tell your story to high school students as part of the Juicy Jobs program
- Mentor a Quasar student preparing for a professional internship next summer
Just a few hours a month can go a long way to help our students believe that Degrees Matter for them, too.
Thanks for listening,
Trish Millines Dziko
Executive Director
Technology Access Foundation |
