UA Little Rock Celebrates Women in STEM on International Day of Women and Girls in Science
On Feb. 11, UA Little Rock is joining the global celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, highlighting the importance of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and the initiatives that encourage girls to pursue careers in STEM.
Jami Eubanks, assistant director of STEM careers and outreach services at UA Little Rock, is passionate about fostering opportunities for women in STEM. With a background in biology and information technology, her journey into science began in sixth grade, thanks to an inspiring teacher, Mrs. Lora Grosvold from Greenwood, Arkansas, who opened her eyes to the possibilities in STEM through hands-on experiences like science fairs and geological field trips.
“She made me believe in myself and see options for my future,” Eubanks said. “I was the first in my family to go to college, and breaking that generational gap was instrumental in shaping who I am today.”
Eubanks has dedicated her career to STEM education, working in both secondary and post-secondary institutions for 16 years. She has seen firsthand the transformative power of mentorship and encouragement, particularly for young women in rural areas who may not have had many role models in science fields.
At UA Little Rock, Eubanks and her colleagues work on multiple programs aimed at engaging young women in STEM. She and Thomas Wallace, coordinator of the Web Design and Development and Information Technology programs, lead the Windstream GIRLS Code summer camp, which introduces participants to coding and computer science concepts in a supportive environment.
Additionally, Eubanks and Wallace recently launched a Girls Who Code College Loop, a new student organization providing mentorship and networking opportunities for female college students pursuing STEM degrees.
The STEM Education Center at UA Little Rock will also host a Women in Tech Luncheon on March 7, featuring faculty, students, and industry professionals discussing their experiences in the field.
Beyond these initiatives, UA Little Rock hosts a variety of STEM outreach events, including competitions such as Best Robotics, the Science Olympiad, and the Central Arkansas Regional Science Fair. These events bring students to campus, exposing them to the exciting possibilities in STEM fields.
“Representation matters. When young girls see women leading in STEM fields, they realize they can do it too,” Eubanks said. “Through outreach, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, we are breaking barriers and creating pathways for the next generation of female scientists and engineers.”
For Eubanks, the mission extends beyond simply increasing numbers—it’s about fostering confidence and ambition in young women. She encourages aspiring female scientists to seek out inspiring mentors, just like Mrs. Grosvold was for her, and surround themselves with supportive networks.
“Finding a female role model who has already broken through those barriers can be life-changing,” she said. “Their experience and advice are invaluable.”
As UA Little Rock continues to invest in STEM education and outreach, Eubanks remains dedicated to ensuring that all students—especially young women—have the support and resources needed to succeed.
“This doesn’t feel like a job,” she said. “I can’t believe I get to go out and share opportunities with kids. It’s especially important to reach those who just need someone to believe in them.”