Black Girls Do STEM (BGDSTEM) Quarterly Professional STEM Networking Mixer was hosted on February 26th and thank you to everyone who attended for making it such a great inaugural event!  This new series is more than just a networking event—it is a purposeful bridge connecting the St. Louis region’s current STEM leaders with the innovators of tomorrow.

By bringing together corporate Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), community partners, and our very own BGDSTEM Alumni and college-aged youth, we are creating a powerful ecosystem of success.

Why It Matters

In the St. Louis region, building a robust professional network is key to career longevity. This series strengthens regional STEM networks and expands mentorship and career access for those often underrepresented in the field.

Most importantly, these mixers serve as a fundraising engine. Every event helps us continue providing high-quality, hands-on STEM education and career pathways for Black girls in grades 6–12, as well as connects our alumnae to mentors as they exit 12th grade into post secondary. 

Honoring Excellence: The STEM Legacy Award

We honored two Black women in STEM with our Inaugural STEM Legacy Award. This award recognizes individuals within STL organizations who have made a lasting impact on STEM equity and have paved the way for the next generation of Black women in science and technology.  Thank you to our youth leaders who served as the Jury for this selection process.

Congratulations to Kiona Elliot as well as Keona Hughes for acceptance of this award!

Who  Attended?

We invited a diverse group of changemakers to join us:

  • 22 STEM Professionals: Black, early-career, and women STEM professionals and their allies looking to connect across STEM industries and learn about mentorship opportunities
  • 2  Corporate Leaders: ERG members and leads looking to expand their impact.
  • 4 BGDSTEM High School Youth: BGD STEM Exiting 12th graders soon to be Alumnae
  • 3 College Students: Active college students pursuing STEM degrees from areas universities 
  • 4 Community Stakeholders: Board members, suporters, Industry and community STEM leaders dedicated to the mission and vision of BGD STEM.

A Call to Action for Corporate ERGs

We are looking for corporate partners who believe in STEM equity. Sponsoring a BGDSTEM mixer offers your ERG:

  • High Visibility: Community engagement tied directly to STEM equity initiatives.
  • Professional Growth: Unique networking opportunities for your internal members.
  • Pipeline Access: Direct mentorship opportunties and connections to early-talent pipelines.
  • DEI Leadership: Recognition as a regional leader in community impact.

How to Participate

Participation TypeDetails
Corporate ERG SponsorshipsPackages available from $2,500 to $7,500.
Individual Registration$40 donation (All proceeds support BGDSTEM programs).

Ready to make an impact? Join us for an evening of connection, celebration, and community investment. Together, we are ensuring that the future of STEM looks like the world we live in and the community we love. 

Register Now 

Inquire About Sponsorship

Q2 event is June 9th at SLU IL Monastero 3050 Olive street St, Louis, Mo 63103