This month the American Heart Association‘s (AHA) Dayton chapter, along with support from several local organizations including Wright State Physicians, has hosted a couple very impactful events in Dayton. These events promote one of the AHA’s premier causes, Go Red for Women, and shines a light on their mission.

The first week of May WSP employees volunteered to assist with STEM Goes Red, held on campus at Wright State University. This event is designed to bring careers in science, technology, engineering, and math to life for young women. Women, especially women of color, make up a small share of scientists and engineers. Of 100 female students working toward a bachelor’s degree, only three will work in a STEM job 10 years after graduation. Attendees at the event gained firsthand experience, connected with inspiring professionals and learned about jobs across STEM fields. The event also included an additional focus on careers in medicine, with the Boonshoft School of Medicine also providing support for the event.

May 11 the Go Red for Women Luncheon was held at the Steam Plant in Dayton. WSP employees were in attendance for this event that featured a health and wellness expo and inspirational speakers, followed by a fundraiser luncheon.

WSP’s CEO, Kim Rex, MHA, is a member of the executive leadership team for Go Red for Women, and chair of the Dayton chapter of the American Heart Association.

AHA embraces the mission to help all women have the opportunity to live a long and healthy life, and to raise awareness that the number 1 killer for women is cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, research has shown that women of color and the younger generation are not aware of this risk.