A 50-year History of Championing Women in Science
Founded in 1971, AWIS has been the leading advocate for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to achieve business growth, social change, and innovation. With over 30 grassroots chapters, we are dedicated to driving excellence in STEM by achieving equity and full participation of women.
Our Mission
To ensure that all women in science can achieve their full potential, AWIS champions equitable educational and work environments in every STEM field.
Our Vision
A world where women in science are recognized and valued for their contributions, impact, and leadership.
“The “W” in AWIS stands for women. Our community knows that the collective “W” includes women of color, women from different socioeconomic backgrounds, women with disabilities, women who are caregivers, and women who are cisgender (when biological sex at birth matches gender identity), as well as those who identify as transgender (when biological sex at birth and identity are different), nonbinary, gender-fluid, and/or queer. We include everyone in our “W.” Indeed, we might even think of the “W” in AWIS as meaning “whole-person.”
Jessi L. Smith, PhD, AWIS member since 2013
Who We Help
For Professionals, AWIS provides career resources, professional development and leadership skills, as well as networking, mentoring, and volunteer opportunities.
For Students, AWIS provides scholarships and access to the people and resources that support their career entry and development.
For Employers, AWIS provides employers access to qualified talent and inclusionary tools to build, diversify, and retain equitable workforces and enhance overall workplace performance.
For Supporters, AWIS provides allies and donors with opportunities to support the individual and collective advancement of women in the science professions.
For Society: AWIS contributes to innovation, economic growth, and advancement of the scientific profession by advocating for equity and the advancement of women.
2025 AWIS Impact
ADVOCACY
725
stories shared in AWIS News Brief to inform, inspire, and rally subscribers to design a more equitable STEM workforce
9
letters signed by AWIS urging legislators to enact policies that support funding, education, and fairness for women in STEM careers
8
coalitions AWIS belongs to which track policies that impact women in science and encourage grassroots advocacy
FUNDING
$106,000
scholarships were awarded across 87 individuals
$65,000
in bridge grants supported early career scientists who lost federal funding
$5,625
awarded to 15 AWIS Shooting Stars Chapters
LEARNING
2,650
AWIS webinar registrations on timely, engaging, and inspiring topics
889
members volunteered with AWIS – developing critical skillsets
619
AWIS mentees connected with 440 mentors to navigate their careers
RECOGNITION
69
articles were written by members and published by AWIS Magazine
47
members were spotlighted via the AWIS website, social media and newsletters
9
AWIS members received awards for their work to build inclusive spaces
More About Our Members
Please note: This data is self-reported by members, and they can choose not to answer these questions on their profile.
AWIS Members by Discipline
AWIS Members by Employment Sector
AWIS Members by Career Stage
AWIS Members by Race/Ethnicity
Our Strategic Plan
Our Values
FAIRNESS – We treat everyone equitably without discrimination or bias.
BALANCE – We promote optimal work/life integration.
INCLUSION – We honor intersectionality to ensure a sense of belonging for all.
RECOGNITION – We amplify and celebrate the scientific contributions of women.
GROWTH MINDSET – We advocate for continuous learning and innovation.
Our Commitment
The Association for Women in Science is dedicated to advocating for equitable access to opportunities, resources and mentorship for all women in STEM – especially those who have been marginalized or historically excluded – and fostering a sense of belonging, not only as a moral imperative, but to drive scientific progress since diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds are proven catalysts for scientific innovation and advancement.
Therefore, we are committed to fostering an environment for AWIS members, staff, and board members where diversity is valued and respected. Specifically:
- Embracing differences and intersectional identities to ensure a sense of belonging.
- Advocating for the unique interests of women in STEM fields to enable our members to make valuable contributions to the scientific community.
- Creating professional development opportunities and connections to help advance women’s careers at every stage.
- Providing education to address bias, promote equitable and inclusive practices, and help organizations acquire, recognize, support, and retain women.
- Educating the general public about the contributions of women scientists.
- Advocating for systemic change to ensure safe, inclusive spaces for women in STEM.
We believe these commitments will increase diversity of experience and perspectives within the AWIS community and strengthen our organization.
How You Can Help
Do you believe in our mission to champion women in science? You can make a lasting impact for current and future women scientists. Support our advocacy, education, and career advancement efforts with a monetary gift. AWIS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, so your gift is tax-deductible.
Higher education institutions, corporations, and other organizations partner with AWIS to connect with and champion our global network of women scientists.
For additional information about how you can support AWIS, please email awis@awis.org or call us at 202-827-9798.
AWIS members create a safe, supportive community for women scientists. As an AWIS member, you can invest in yourself and fellow women in science. Become an AWIS member.