Randolph-Macon College has been the home of the prestigious Caminos a La Ciencia/Pathways to Science program since 2017.  Pathways to Science is a program designed to support Latina high school students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) disciplines, with the goal of encouraging them to pursue careers in science. This program is made possible by a significant grant awarded from the National Science Foundation and is facilitated by Dr. April Marchetti, RMC’s Garnett-Lambert Professor of Chemistry.

This year, the Pathways to Science program is being held from July 21-26, 2019 on Randolph-Macon’s campus. 

RMC President Robert R. Lindgren welcomed 35 campers from 17 high schools in Virginia, their families and guests on Sunday, July 21 at the opening ceremony. He also introduced special guest United States Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia.

Lindgren noted Kaine’s significant commitment to public service that began long before he held any office.  Referencing Kaine’s experience working with young people in Honduras after his first year of Harvard Law School for nine months, Lindgren said, “It was an experience that proved formative for those young people, but also for Senator Kaine, himself – in ways that would greatly influence the rest of his life and his 25-year career in public service.”  Said Lindgren, “We are deeply honored to have you with us today, Senator, to celebrate this important program and most importantly, these wonderful students.”

Kaine delivered words of encouragement to students, in both English and Spanish, about the importance of the Pathways to Science program and the STEM disciplines.  He said the enormous challenges facing us can only be solved by people who work together and bring diverse perspectives and views. He also discussed how imperative it is for more students to get involved with STEM.  Kaine said, “I’m happy to see a program dedicated to recruiting and mentoring Latina high schoolers in STEM disciplines. These girls represent some of the best and brightest from across Virginia, and I can’t wait to see what they accomplish!”

Pathways to Science Program 

The program is the product of a partnership assembled by Randolph-Macon and includes Fortune 500 companies, state Hispanic leaders, and STEM-focused nonprofits.  The program—the first of its kind in Central Virginia—gives participants the opportunity to explore STEM disciplines and interact with researchers and other professionals from companies throughout the region.