Written by volunteer writer Amy Freeman

Donna Cusimano, the curriculum development manager for TechGirlz, recently received the “Gateway to Equity” award from the AAUW Lansdale, PA Branch.

AAUW’s mission is to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research. The Gateway to Equity awards are given to individuals, organizations, or groups that promote the mission of the AAUW through their actions or philosophy.

“It is such a great honor to be awarded the “Gateway to Equity” Award from the AAUW Lansdale Branch for my work with TechGirlz,” Donna says.

“TechGirlz will be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and we couldn’t be more excited. In honor of this milestone, TechGirlz planned to run the Girls in Tech Summit, a conference by girls for girls. The event has been postponed due to COVID-19, but we are hoping to run it soon.”

As TechGirlz’ Curriculum Development manager, Donna works with content matter experts to develop new workshops in addition to managing curriculum updates and the TechCamp in a Box program.

Prior to joining the team at TechGirlz, Donna worked in the pharmaceutical industry in a variety of roles, all of which required technology. While working in the pharmaceutical industry, Donna also volunteered to teach science activities to middle school students and participated in science day events. She enjoyed the experience of teaching young people about STEM.

“Taking on [the] role [with TechGirlz] was a natural step in my career,” she says. “Having daughters, I am passionate about developing girls’ confidence and educating them about STEM careers. … In addition to learning about the application of technology through the hands-on activities in our workshops, the girls have an opportunity to hear about the instructors’ career experience and ask questions. I often ask at the end of the workshops if girls would consider a career in the area of technology they learned about that day, and many say ‘yes.'”

“I am dedicated to the TechGirlz vision to create a world where girls have a lifelong passion and confidence in their use of technology throughout their careers,” Donna says. “With this confidence, girls will be empowered to pursue the careers of their choice.”

Congratulations to Donna on your award!