Deep Run HS student among 10 winners statewide of STEM essay contest
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A Deep Run High School student is among 10 winners of the Virginia Council on Women’s 10th annual STEM Essay Contest for young women in their junior or senior years of high school.
Ritika Allada was one of two winners from the Central Virginia area, along with another student from Emporia. The organization chose two winners from each of Virginia’s five regions.
The awardees will be recognized at a virtual reception hosted by Governor Ralph Northam and First Lady Pamela Northam later this month.
“This annual contest is one important way that we are working to encourage more girls to pursue their interests in STEM careers and increase representation in science, technology, mathematics, and engineering professions,” said the governor. “The First Lady and I are so proud of this year’s contest winners and hope every student who submitted essays will be inspired to continue learning and nurturing their passion for STEM.”
The Virginia Council on Women established this contest in 2012 to award scholarships to high school junior and senior girls planning to pursue STEM careers at institutions of higher education, including four-year colleges and universities, community colleges, and career and technical schools. Nearly 100 young women from Virginia submitted essays focusing on their vision for a future STEM career. To date, the council has awarded more than $150,000 in scholarships through this annual essay contest.
“For years now, the Virginia Council on Women’s STEM Essay Contest has increased educational access for students throughout the Commonwealth and we are thrilled to now expand this access to even more students,” said Da’Shaun Joseph, Chair of the Virginia Council on Women STEM Initiatives Committee. “The Council wishes this year’s winners joy and success as they continue to learn and grow in their field.”
This year, one merit-based and one need-based scholarship will be awarded in each of five geographic regions statewide. Merit-based scholarships will be awarded based on the quality of the essay submitted, and need-based scholarships will be awarded based on the quality of the essay and the individual’s self-identified financial need. Award amounts may vary and are determined by the council annually. Essay entries were judged by a panel of council members and others who represent STEM fields.
