United Voices: Celebrating International Day for Women and Girls in Science
Becky Bosco, Senior Director of Corporate Communications, Optica
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science celebrated on 11 February, was dedicated in 2013 by UNESCO and UN-Women, collaborating with institutions and civil society partners that aim to promote women and girls in science. This day is an opportunity to promote full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls. Gender equality is a global priority for UNESCO, and the support of young girls, their education, and their full ability to make their ideas heard are levers for development and peace.
Optica joins UNESCO and other organizations worldwide to celebrate women in STEM fields and inspire the next generation of female scientists. A crucial component of supporting women in STEM fields is providing leadership opportunities: organizations should ensure women are given the same opportunities as men to lead research groups or manage influential projects.
With a core value of inclusivity and a commitment to diversity, Optica is proud to have many inspiring and accomplished women in various leadership positions across the organization. In honor of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we asked some of these leaders to share their perspectives on working in the optical sciences and how we can work to increase diversity in optics.
Voices of Optica Leaders
Gisele Bennett, MEPSS LLC and Editor-in-Chief of Applied Optics, United States, Strategic Planning Council, “What I love about working in the optical sciences is that each day offers an opportunity to learn something new that requires a diversity of thought. I bring my broad background in academia and applied research to Optica’s Strategic Planning Council as we invest in diversity and inclusion within our global community.”
Jennifer Brookes, US Department of Defense, United States, Public Affairs Council, “Optics and photonics is very much a global and multifaceted industry. As more optics are incorporated into today’s technologies, the opportunities for women to be a part of the industry are limitless. We encourage our members worldwide to engage in STEM outreach in their local communities. Encourage girls to be excited about optics from an early age and show them they have a place in the community.”
Katherine Calabro, Apple Inc., United States, Membership Engagement & Development Council, “As women working in technology today, we have an opportunity to open doors for other women. I bring this abundance mindset to my position at Apple and the Membership Engagement and Development Council, where we are consistently looking to elevate the careers of our female members.”
Susana Marcos, University of Rochester, United States, Publications Council, “When I began my career, opportunities to learn from female mentors were limited. My mentoring approach now is guided by respect, generosity, authenticity, championing, and emboldened expectations. I encourage others in the optics community to mentor other women and be their champion along their career journey.”
Arlene Smith, Molex, Inc, United States, Nomination Council, “Representation matters. The business case for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) is stronger than ever. I know that my work on Optica’s Nomination Council is boldly creating a long-lasting inclusive culture and community.”
Gabrielle Thomas, Menlo Systems GmbH, Germany, Optica Meetings Council and Strategic Planning Council, “Stand up, speak up, back us up - I encourage women in our industry to continue to show up in impactful ways. Network at conferences, volunteer on committees and share your experiences with other women. Our collective efforts will create an inclusive, equitable environment and move the industry forward.”
Learn more and support:
In 2023, Optica will continue to thrive and grow in its membership diversity with your support. Below are opportunities for you to connect within the Optica community.
- The Optica Women Scholars program awards 20 undergraduate and Masters optics and photonics students a US$10,000 scholarship and mentoring opportunities annually for the next ten years.
- The Corning Optical Communications Travel Grant and Optical Communications Scholarship provide funding and recognition to outstanding young women.
- For those attending an Optica meeting who need help covering expenses due to family responsibilities, we offer Family Care Grants – up to US $400 per family per calendar year for in-person and up to US $200 for virtual participation.
Nominate a woman for an award or as an Optica Senior Member, Fellow, or Honorary member.
- Become a reviewer or encourage women you know to volunteer for Optica Publishing Group. You can learn more at the reviewer resource page and the steps to become an Editor.
- Attend, host or propose a topic for an event or activity helping educate and inspire women in optics. Download the Women in STEM challenge game created by the student chapters at the Institute of Optics of the Spanish National Research Council and the University of Surrey.
- Finally, be engaged in your everyday life. Mentor a young woman in your lab or ensure that women in your company are recognized and offered opportunities to grow as corporate leaders.
