From pioneering paleontology, discovering the double helix of DNA, and developing antibiotic susceptibility testing, women change the world every day. We are astronauts, neurosurgeons, veterinarians, chemists, and computer programmers— if we can dream it, we can do it.
2023 marks the 8th International Women and Girls in Science Day across the globe, deemed so by the United Nations Assembly, and this Saturday, February 11th, you can celebrate it right here in Southwest Michigan.
Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve in Niles is excitedly hosting their U.N. International Women & Girls In Science Day Celebration from 1 p.m to 4 p.m, beginning with story time. From 1 p.m to 1:30 p.m in the Fauna wing of the Sims Education Center, youth and families can enjoy a presentation of past, present, and future women scientists. There will also be interactive displays provided by the science department at Lake Michigan College.
You’ll find the gorgeous grounds of Fernwood at 13988 Range Line Road, and on Saturday you can participate in nature Bingo, create make-and-take crafts, enjoy refreshments, and more. Celebration festivities are free with Fernwood admission.
Just down the road, from 12 p.m to 3 p.m, River St. Joe will also be honoring Women & Girls in Science. Throughout the day, most of the fun can be found inside the greenhouse, which will become a ‘hive’ of activity on this special day.
Photos by River St. Joe
“This International Day of Women & Girls in Science resonated with the owners and managers of River St Joe and Flatwater Farms,” says event coordinator MaryAnne Bryan. “Ann and Fran Tuite are daughters of parents who were both Botanists. This celebration, the support for girls interested in science, and the recognition for the women that have blazed the trail for all is a worthy mission that we wanted to acknowledge and support.”
River St. Joe and organic Flatwater Farms understand the importance of insects in the natural world, so let’s study bugs! You will find color images and information on several insects (praying mantis, assassin bugs, ladybugs, dragonflies, bees, lacewings), and can color insect images to take home. Peruse science books on site, and use them as a reference to create a beautiful picture.
“We have partnered with Buchanan High School Science teacher Melissa Frost to examine insects under the microscope, and we will be highlighting famous women in science: Tara Astigarraga, Dr. Ruth Mary Rogan Benerito, Dr. Alexa Canady. Rachel Carson, Dr. Marie Curie, and Katherine Johnson,” Maryanne tells us.
Insects are a great source of protein, so River St. Joe will have a variety of crickets and ants to snack on! River St. Joe food + drinks will be available for purchase, as always.
Our public libraries are always bursting with endless amounts of information, so if you cannot attend either of these fantastic events, be sure to pop into your local branch and study the amazing things women & girls in science have done, and continue to do, for the world.
By Jocelyne Tuszynski, MOTM Contributor
