Upstate event inspires middle school students to become next generation of STEM leaders

GREENVILLE, S.C., Nov. 17, 2025 — The American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives, and the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville recently hosted 100 local middle school girls for its second annual Upstate STEM Goes Red event. This full-day experience was developed to inspire and empower middle school girls to pursue a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) career. Students experienced the world of STEM, hearing from engineers, chemists, medical professionals and others to engage their minds through hands-on STEM-related activities.

Women make up almost half of the workforce, but just over 29 percent of women hold jobs in STEM fields.[1] It is also estimated that of 100 women working toward a bachelor’s degree today, only three will work in a STEM job 10 years after graduation.[2]

“This event draws from the American Heart Association’s legacy of science, education and discovery to help propel young women into rewarding careers that can truly change the world,” says Ashley Coleman, executive director for the American Heart Association, Upstate S.C. “By connecting today’s young women with rewarding STEM opportunities and leaders in these fields, we hope to inspire them to build a brighter, healthier future for all.”

In addition to hands-on demonstrations with student leaders from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, the American Heart Association, AFL, Challenge Island and Michelin North America, STEM Goes Red attendees experienced a STEM Fair featuring additional experiences and resources from local, STEM-related organizations: Clemson University School of Nursing, Duke Energy, Furman Institute for the Advancement of Community Health, Michelin North America, Milliken & Company, Prisma Health Med Ex Program, Prisma Health: Fertility Center of The Carolinas, and University of South Carolina School of Medicine student interest groups.

As a science-based organization, the American Heart Association recognizes the need to have more women engaged in life-saving breakthroughs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

”With the help of our phenomenal students and our partnership with the American Heart Association, we really hope to grow the next generation of leaders in STEM within our own community,” added Dr. Jennifer Springhart, director of community engagement at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville.

STEM Goes Red empowers the next generation of female leaders to change the future of heart health through innovation, technology, and health and wellness. Together, the Upstate STEM community can help inspire and elevate young women to drive the discoveries of tomorrow.

STEM Goes Red was made possible by support from presenting sponsor AFL and the Ray and Charyl Schroeder Grace Foundation. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health.

For more information about the Upstate Go Red for Women movement or to get involved, contact Adelyn Nottingham at Adelyn.Nottingham@heart.org.  

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

About Go Red for Women® 

The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 18 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedForWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721). 

For Media Inquiries:

Hunter Burton: hunter.burton@heart.org

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org