PC Celebrates the Next Generation of Women in STEM with Innovative Program

This past week, Porterville College, AAUW Porterville, and the Porterville Chamber of Commerce  officially celebrated the InnovateHER STEM Program, a collaborative initiative designed to inspire and empower the next generation of young women in science, technology, engineering, and math.

On Monday, June 22, community members, local leaders, and families gathered at Porterville College (PC) for a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the success of the 2nd Annual InnovateHER STEM Summer Camp. The day was filled with inspiration, featuring powerful words from sponsor organizations, local dignitaries, and a special awards ceremony honoring some of the wonderful students who have participated in the program.

Voices of Support from Our Leaders

The ceremony highlighted the immense community collaboration required to make this program a reality. Dignitaries and representatives from the Porterville Chamber of Commerce, PC, and the Porterville Unified School District (PUSD) shared their pride in the program's growth.

“As a community college, we believe talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not always equally visible," said Dr. Michelle Miller-Galaz, PC Dean of Instruction. "InnovateHER introduces middle school girls to STEM fields while helping them see themselves as future college students. Our goal is not simply to teach science and technology concepts; it is to build confidence, expand aspirations, and show young women that they belong in classrooms, laboratories, and leadership positions where the next generation of innovation will be created."

AAUW Board Member Raffaela Woods echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the program's expanding reach: "We are proud to be able to serve more young women than ever before through our InnovateHER program, in partnership with PC and PUSD. Our commitment to our future leaders is stronger than ever, and we look forward to bringing even more programs in the future."

The Porterville Chamber of Commerce also expressed enthusiastic support, noting that the InnovateHER program significantly contributes to the local economy, local youth, and overall community life.

Celebrating Student Excellence

A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards to several outstanding 7th-grade students who completed the program. These awards recognized the girls' creativity, collaboration, and determination during their hands-on STEM exploration.

By bridging the gap between curiosity and opportunity, the InnovateHER program continues to help these young women build STEM confidence, develop critical skills, and visualize future college and career pathways.

About the Partners

• AAUW Porterville: Brings more than 95 years of community leadership and a strong commitment to advancing equity for women and girls through scholarships, youth programs, and STEM-focused opportunities.
• Porterville College’s STEM Innovation Center: Enhances this mission by providing hands-on learning, mentorship, immersive technology, and academic support through programs such as MESA.