NACOGDOCHES, Texas — When Camille Schrier took the stage at the Miss America competition and performed “the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide” as her onstage talent, she had a specific goal – promote STEM education.
Crowned Miss America 2020, Schrier continues to be a passionate STEM advocate and will serve as the featured speaker at the Women in STEM Luncheon and Style Show hosted by Stephen F. Austin State University’s College of Sciences and Mathematics at noon Tuesday, April 7, in the Baker Pattillo Student Center Grand Ballroom.
Schrier graduated from Virginia Tech with dual Bachelor of Science degrees in biochemistry and systems biology and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy at Virginia Commonwealth University. She was awarded the Engineering Champion Award by the Sigma Rho National Sorority for her efforts promoting women in engineering and technical fields.
The luncheon and style show is a scholarship fundraising event benefiting students committed to the advancement of women pursuing STEM degrees at SFA.
“Building a strong foundation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is key to supporting the infrastructure of a successful STEM workforce,” said Dr. Kimberly M. Childs, dean of the College of Sciences and Mathematics. “Our keynote speaker for the Women in STEM Luncheon is an outstanding role model who utilizes her national platform and passion for science to promote her social initiative for drug safety. With style and grace, the reigning Miss America, Camille Schrier, encourages and promotes the advancement of women in STEM careers.”
Doors open at 11 a.m. for a gallery walk poster presentation highlighting STEM research accomplishments by SFA students and faculty.
A style show will follow the luncheon with selected men escorting female role models to highlight the importance of having men support women in STEM disciplines. Fashions are provided by The Town House.
The deadline for reservations is April 2. Tickets are $50 each or $350 for a table of eight. For tickets, visit sfasu.edu/womeninSTEM. For more information, email kdcarmona@sfasu.edu.