For Immediate Release

February 20, 2006
Contact: Melanie McDonald, director of public relations, 574-284-4579

Hypatia Day Mixes Girls, Math and Science

NOTRE DAME, Ind.—More than 100 seventh-grade girls from across Indiana
will attend the 16th annual Hypatia Day at Saint Mary’s College on
Saturday, Feb. 25. Each student was selected by her school for her
interest, ability, achievement and promise in math and science.

Hypatia Day, named after the first female mathematician and scientist in
recorded history (370 A.D.), is designed to strengthen girls’ enthusiasm
for math and science by providing the extra attention and reinforcement
needed to succeed in these areas, which require a high degree of training.

“Many girls—even those who love math and science—need encouragement to
continue a challenging high school curriculum in these areas,” says Ewa
Misiolek, assistant professor of mathematics at Saint Mary’s and Hypatia
Day organizer. “Pressure to obtain perfect grades often leads girls to
choose easier classes. This can close doors to a wide variety of
opportunities available to women who pursue math and science.”

Throughout Hypatia Day, faculty will ask participants to view one
another as potential physicians, research scientists, actuaries and
engineers. The girls will interact in the lab with Saint Mary’s students
who are preparing for a future in these fields, and will learn about
famous women in math and science through role-playing.

A separate program for parents includes a discussion on what high school
curriculum best prepares a student for college. Another discussion will
address financial preparation for college.

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SMC06-13

REPORTER’S NOTE: If you would like to interview local participants prior to the event, please call Melanie McDonald at 284-4579.