Cape Women in STEM Club empowers students through mentorship
Cape Henlopen High School students are working to inspire and support the next generation of female leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through the school’s Women in STEM Club.
While the club formed at the end of last school year and just began meeting formally once a month this academic year, it has already made a meaningful impact through guest speakers, student leadership and scholarship fundraising.
Founded by students Delaney Huxtable and Ava Lewis, the club was created to address the challenges young women often face when pursuing careers in historically male-dominated fields. “Our goal with the Women in STEM Club is to promote female participation in these fields, create a welcoming and supportive environment for like-minded girls, and provide insight into potential occupations,” said Huxtable. “It can be incredibly discouraging to be the only woman in the room, and we wanted to build a space where girls feel confident, supported and inspired to pursue their career goals.”
The club has hosted two guest speakers so far, beginning with Mireille Jaoude, a healthcare management professional, in November, followed by Dr. Erin Nguyen, an optometrist with Delaware Eye Clinics, who spoke with students Jan. 14. Each speaker shared her personal pathway into a STEM career and engaged in student-led discussions focused on coursework, career preparation, challenges and rewards.
Lewis reflected on Nguyen’s visit, noting the impact of hearing honest and relatable experiences. “Dr. Nguyen showed us that you don’t have to have everything figured out right away, and that success really comes from determination and taking advantage of opportunities when they’re available,” said Lewis. “Hearing her talk about learning through experience and overcoming discomfort helped make a STEM career feel more realistic and attainable.”
In addition to mentorship and career exploration, the Women in STEM Club is committed to creating long-term opportunities for students. Members are raising funds to establish a scholarship for a graduating senior who plans to pursue higher education in a STEM-related field. The club has already raised $2,000 toward this goal and continues to plan additional fundraisers to grow the scholarship for future years.
Faculty advisor Rachael Smith praised the students’ leadership and vision. “This club is entirely student-driven, and Delaney and Ava have done an incredible job creating something meaningful and sustainable,” said Smith. “They are not only advocating for themselves, but also opening doors for future students by building connections, raising funds and showing what young women can accomplish when they support one another.”
To continue building the scholarship fund, the Women in STEM Club hosted a bake sale Jan. 24 at the Lewes Public Library, with all proceeds benefiting young women aspiring to STEM careers.
With plans to welcome additional guest speakers and expand fundraising efforts, the Women in STEM Club organizers hope to continue empowering students, strengthening community connections and inspiring the next generation of women in STEM.
