Eight Northwest Early College students received recognition from the El Paso Affiliate of The National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) for Aspirations in Computing including one who earned a National Certificate of Distinction.
According to NCWIT, the Award for Aspirations in Computing honors 9th-12th grade students who self-identify as women, genderqueer, or non-binary for their computing-related achievements and interests. Award recipients are selected based on their aptitude and aspirations in technology and computing, as demonstrated by their computing experience, computing-related activities, leadership experience, tenacity in the face of barriers to access, and plans for post-secondary education.
Northwest Computer Science Teacher Catherine Tabor says that these students have significantly demonstrated interest and aptitude for computing.
“The pride I feel in these young ladies is immense,” Tabor said. “They demonstrate grit and perseverance in the pursuit of their computing dreams and aspirations.”
Each recipient will receive recognition and prizes; induction into the AiC Community of nearly 20,000 members; access to resources, scholarships, and internship opportunities.
The multi-tiered award structure includes Winner, Honorable Mention, Rising Star, and Certificate of Distinction designations at National and Regional Affiliate levels, serving all 50 states, all U.S. territories, and Canada. Regional Affiliate Award programs are hosted in 79 locations nationwide by NCWIT Alliance member organizations which include a national network of universities, companies, non-profits, and government organizations working to increase the influence and meaningful participation of girls and women from every community.
NCWIT is a non-profit community that convenes, equips, and unites change leader organizations to increase the influential and meaningful participation of girls and women — at the intersections of race/ethnicity, class, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, and other historically marginalized identities — in the field of computing, particularly in terms of innovation and development.
Northwest students who were honored include:
Dahana Solis – National Certificate of Distinction
Lianna Estrada – El Paso Affiliate Winner
Kamilla Madera – El Paso Affiliate Honorable Mention
Sophia Montenegro – El Paso Affiliate Honorable Mention
Aitiana Mondragon – Rising star
Emma Carrillo – Rising Star
Gabrielle Chavez – Rising Star
Jewel Navarette – Rising Star