Empowering Future STEM Leaders | |
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Date | February 28, 2025 |
Time | 9 am - 1 pm |
Location | Meredith College, School of Business |
About the Conference
ATHENA of the Triangle is excited to host the inaugural ATHENA in STEM Girls Conference, a one-day event designed for high school girls (9th–12th grades) in the NC Triangle area. This empowering experience will connect young women with successful female STEM professionals, offering inspiration, knowledge, and practical advice to explore STEM careers.
If you’re passionate about science, technology, engineering, or math, this conference is for YOU!
Session i
9:40 – 10:20
Session ii
10:30 – 11:10
Session iii
11:20 – 12:00

SESSION 1A – LEDFORD ROOM 206
Empowering Teen Leadership
Presented by: Narkie Nartey
Narkie Nartey is the Founder of The Wakaboomee Program 501(c)3 a STEAM, Wellness & Entrepreneurship Non-Profit, Office Manager at AJA, Program Manager at the GDBCC, 2022-2023 President of RTP Rotary Club, Town of Morrisville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Advisory Committee Member, Mentor for GTI/SKEEMA Mentorship Program at NCSU and board member of EdTECH Unite.Narkie has a fiery passion for helping others, connecting community Leaders, managing various social media platforms and working strategically to create real change by closing the digital divide in underserved communities.

SESSION 2A – LEDFORD ROOM 206
Awaken Your Inner Explorer
Presented by: Briana Faulk
Briana has been in the IT industry for over 9+ years. She has worked in various roles in engineering over her career. Over her years in IT, she has gained skills such as leadership, architect, trainer, etc. Through her career her passion for empowering women to enter STEM careers has grown when she noticed the lack of representation. She works with various non-profit organizations to not only empower women and students but also encourage diversity. Briana also enjoys mentoring people and teaching them how to shift their mindset and careers.When Briana is not working, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

SESSION 3A – DOG A & DOB B
Bloom Where you are Planted
Presented by: Sterling Fulton
Sterling M. Fulton, MHA has served as a Program Director for NCCARE360, North Carolina’s statewide social care networking system, and Program Associate for the NC Health and Wellness Trust Fund. She is a graduate of both Hampton University and The Pennsylvania State University. Sterling is the lead author of Health Justice in Tobacco Control and author of The Brain Trust Planner and Love in Action; Overcoming the Destructive “Isms” in Today’s Society.Sterling serves on the boards of Athena of the Triangle, an innovative leadership development and entrepreneurial skill-building program for women leaders in the Triangle region of North Carolina; Unity of the Triangle; and the NC Museum and Science Center. She is the proud mother of two Eagle Scouts. Sterling enjoys spending time with her husband and their fur-babies, a rambunctious Shorkie named Cam and Brittnepoo named Jagger.

SESSION 1B – LEDFORD ROOM 214
Discover and Define Your Unique Leadership Impact
Presented by: Traci Phillips
As an Executive Leadership and Performance Coach to Visionary Leaders, Traci Philips has helped countless corporate and business professionals successfully and consciously lead and communicate who they are and the value of this with integrity and truth. She has worked with ex-executives in federal prison, high-ranking corporate leaders and serial entrepreneurs who have created businesses that launched a new norm within their industries.
Traci understands how to cultivate vision and communicate its value. She has developed unique skills in recognizing and translating patterns in thought, emotion, language and behavior that can lead to successful and unsuccessful outcomes. Traci’s coaching is founded on the neuroscience around the 3 levels of human intelligence and how to develop these to improve performance and leadership. Her ultimate goal is to support her clients to live authentically and lead powerfully by creating more awareness and better communication around who they are, how they want to lead and influence and what legacy they want to leave behind.

SESSION 2B – LEDFORD ROOM 214
Discover and Define Your Unique Leadership Impact
Presented by: Sandra Clarke
I’m a versatile IT leader with 20 years of experience in sales, product marketing, strategy, and enablement. Currently leading global sales programs and strategy for Digital Workplace & DaaS solutions. I am known for breaking down barriers and leading cross-functional, cross-cultural teams to launch innovative IT solutions, empower, incent, and celebrate salespeople. Giving back is one of my core values. I am a Board Member at Lenovo Women in Lenovo Leadership (WILL), the founder of the WILL North America Mentoring Academy, and an avid volunteer in my community.

SESSION 3B – OAKWOOD
Social Media and Networking Strategies for SUCCESS
Presented by: Becky Brown
I coach and train sales leaders and professionals in leveraging their digital engagement to build stronger relationships and generate fuller pipelines. I manage a social selling certification program and run internal communications for our global team.I bring a broad and deep set of experiences from 37 years in sales, marketing and enablement in the technology industry. I have managed enterprise accounts, launched products, managed a team of marketers and run technical and sales enablement programs.I bring a broad and deep set of experiences from 37 years in sales, marketing and enablement in the technology industry. I have managed enterprise accounts, launched products, managed a team of marketers and run technical and sales enablement programs.I am a DEIB advocate and serve on a leadership council for a Women’s Initiatives Network employee inclusion group. I mentor women across all career levels and professions. My north star is helping others lead more fulfilled lives by aligning work and life.I serve as a sea turtle patrol volunteer in Emerald Isle, NC providing education and serving to protect endangered sea turtles. I am a landlord and enjoy DIY home improvement projects.

SESSION IC – HARRIS 214
Wellness Strategies for Teens
Presented by: Saundra L. Nettles
Saundra L. Nettles is the CEO and owner of FosNet Self Defense & Surveillance Systems. She travels across the state of North Carolina presenting workshops and seminars on the topics of Being Crime Wise and Personal Safety & Self Defense to corporations, civic groups, homeowner associations, churches, teen groups, and women organizations. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree from NC A&T State University where she also worked for several years in the Vice Chancellors Office of Academic Affairs prior to going into the corporate arena.
During the early years of her career she considered herself as A Pioneer & “Woman In A Man’s World” in which she overcame many challenges. She traveled from the United States Capitol to the Florida representing her contract bonding business; providing technical assistance to contractors and builders. She also bonded contractors through the SBA and worked closely with the Minority Business Development Center in Durham, NC and the NC Department of Transportation.
She is a professional international speaker and has traveled to Africa, South America, England, and the Caribbean Islands fulfilling her destiny purpose. She currently resides in Moncure, North Carolina and is involved with various organizations and she also serves on The Board of Equalization and Review and the Board of Adjustment in Chatham County, NC.

SESSION 2C – HARRIS ROOM 214
The Rise of the Womentrepreneur
Presented by: Dan McQuade
Daniel McQuade is a strategic marketing and business development executive passionate about innovation and sustainability. With a career spanning leadership roles in branding, marketing, and emerging technologies, Daniel has driven growth across various industries, particularly in perishables.As a serial entrepreneur, Daniel has founded four disruptive companies, including KnowSeafood, a direct-to-consumer seafood platform that leveraged a co-developed blockchain solution with IBM’s Global “Food Trust.” His expertise extends to Corporate Social Responsibility, where he has facilitated over $7 million in grants for education, health, and wellness initiatives.An accomplished educator, Daniel served as an adjunct/lecturer at Columbia Business School and as Director of the award-winning NYC “Good Neighbor” program. His teaching, recognized for its impact and acclaim, equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools to navigate the complexities of modern business.Renowned as a thought leader and visionary, Daniel is committed to empowering others and shaping a sustainable, innovative future.

SESSION ID – WEATHERSPOON ROOM 12
Positive Body Image
Presented by: Dr. Susan Lovelle
Dr. Susan, The Thrive Architect, teaches busy professionals how to flourish both at work and home by mastering their energy, weight, and hormones. She’s the Founder of Premiere Wellness, a comprehensive lifestyle health company based in Raleigh, NC, serving clients globally.She and her team work virtually and in person through speaking, workshops, courses, and retreats. Her corporate programs impact innovative companies such as Activision and BlackLine.Dr. Susan has been featured on The Doctors, the docuseries Exhausted, Lifetime TV, The Huffington Post, Forbes, Training Magazine, KNOW Women, Good Morning Washington, and Good Day Charlotte. Her new book, Thrive! The Five-Week Guide to Mastering Your Energy At Any Age is available on Amazon.

SESSION 2D – WEATHERSPOON ROOM 12
Wisdom From Your Future Self
Presented by: Ebony Davenport
Dr. Ebony Davenport owns BE! Social Solutions (BE!SS). For over 10 years, she has worked to reform work environments and improve employee experiences. Her mission is to help people increase health, wealth, and beauty by teaching fun practices that eliminate daily stress. Her expertise is adding learning, fun, and play to any event!

SESSION IE – WEATHERSPOON MOVEMENT LAB
ZUMBA – MOVE YA BODY
Presented by: Angie Massengill
Dance is JOY and spreading positive vibes through fitness and wellness has been my endeavor since 1986! I’m a nationally certified CPT through ACSM in addition to IFTA Group Fitness and Zumba® licensed instructor. My career journey includes being an Alumna of Duke University, raising four brilliant, strong and successful daughters, instructing thousands of dance and fitness formats, and personally training amazing people. May 2025 will mark my 10 year anniversary at SAS Institute. My first seven years at SAS I had the honor of being a Fitness Coordinator at our state-of-the-art Recreation and Fitness Center. 2020 changed my career path, as I pursued further education and training in Finance and now work as a Sales Tax Specialist in SAS’ Tax and Treasury department, while still teaching weekly Zumba® classes at SAS and elsewhere.

SESSION 2E – WEATHERSPOON MOVEMENT LAB
ZUMBA – MOVE YA BODY
Presented by: Angie Massengill
Dance is JOY and spreading positive vibes through fitness and wellness has been my endeavor since 1986! I’m a nationally certified CPT through ACSM in addition to IFTA Group Fitness and Zumba® licensed instructor. My career journey includes being an Alumna of Duke University, raising four brilliant, strong and successful daughters, instructing thousands of dance and fitness formats, and personally training amazing people. May 2025 will mark my 10 year anniversary at SAS Institute. My first seven years at SAS I had the honor of being a Fitness Coordinator at our state-of-the-art Recreation and Fitness Center. 2020 changed my career path, as I pursued further education and training in Finance and now work as a Sales Tax Specialist in SAS’ Tax and Treasury department, while still teaching weekly Zumba® classes at SAS and elsewhere.

SESSION 1F – KRESGE LECTURE ROOM
PANEL DISCUSSION – A JOURNEY IN STEM
Ahmed Ramdan, Aynsley Szczseniak, Me’chelle Degree, Elena Lewis
Ahmed Ramdan
As a seasoned leader in the pharmaceutical industry, Ahmed Radwan has made significant strides in STEM, fostering innovation and efficiency in vaccine production and manufacturing operations. With over a decade of experience, Ahmed has managed teams responsible for crucial elements of vaccine production, from cell banking to filling, ensuring that life-saving vaccines are produced swiftly and safely. His leadership extends beyond routine management; he has spearheaded numerous initiatives that harness cutting-edge technologies, including AI and digital systems, to enhance manufacturing processes.
Ahmed’s commitment to STEM is not just about improving systems but also empowering the next generation of scientists. He has actively worked on diversifying the workforce, notably increasing gender and racial diversity in manufacturing roles. His mentoring efforts have enabled many aspiring young women to ascend to leadership positions within a historically male-dominated field. As the first male leader of Pfizer’s Women’s Resource Group, he has been a pivotal advocate for addressing gender-specific challenges in the workplace.
With a B.S. in Chemistry from Winston-Salem State University and a solid foundation in quality, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance, Ahmed embodies the role of a mentor and leader who is not only advancing the field of manufacturing but also paving the way for young women in STEM to thrive.
Aynsley Szczseniak
I’m Aynsley, a sophomore studying Biology, Mathematics, and Entrepreneurship at UNC Chapel Hill. I’m a proactive STEMinist and proud science nerd, and I intend to pursue a dual career as a trailblazer for women in STEM and a practicing physician in women’s health.
As a young woman in STEM, I understand the weight of imposter syndrome, and I’ve realized that what carries me through is self-confidence, self-advocacy, and a network of trusted mentors I can depend on. That’s why I’ve built Speak Out Sisterhood, a global nonprofit for young professional women in STEM. As CEO, I direct our Generation YES program, an eight-week remote internship empowering college women to research and develop solutions to barriers to women’s advancement in STEM. Our partners and our interns hail from all across the world, and we strive to cultivate a diverse community of courage, confidence, and curiosity.
As a Clinical Communications Intern with the Reproductive Health Access Project, I have honed my skills of impactful messaging (as well as my love of LinkedIn!). Translating news and medical education resources to our network of 8,000+ clinicians has taught me how reproductive health care lives at the intersection of medical knowledge and patient empowerment, and as a clinician, it’s my responsibility to validate the experiences of every person. Similarly, my mission as the President of the UNC chapter of the American Medical Student Association is to equip my classmates with resources and education to take action on the most pressing issues in modern healthcare.
What sets me apart? I create my own destiny, and rather than succumbing to the limitations of what currently exists, I see what could be and then I make it happen. I am a proactive, energetic social entrepreneur eager to tap into my experience building programs, organizing events, and mobilizing young changemakers. You’ll know me as an enthusiastic, motivated, reliable team player with a passion for learning from others.
My mission is to equip women with the skills and strength to fight for autonomy over their careers, their bodies, their choices and their lives. Let’s connect – I’d love to learn more about you!
Me’Chelle Degree
Two decades of business management experience, training, development and leadership consulting. These skills , along with my entrepreneurial spirit has enabled me to transition from managing projects within organizations to consulting with small and large organizations to develop employee’s leadership skills. As a John Maxwell Speaker, Trainer and Coach, I serve as a keynote speaker, orator, and panelist. I am known for designing interactive events that result in continuous sold out workshops, seminars, and conferences. Being such an action-oriented person, one that enjoys “Making Life Happen, instead of Life just happening”.
My love for people and my ability to strengthen a healthy relationship with fortune 500 companies empowered me to leverage and create first-time technology processes and systems that proved profitable for both the company and the vendor.
I have mastered the art of strategic leadership and developed a unique series of “Blueprint Leadership” Workshops for Women, College Students, Businesses and Religious Institutions. I believe in paying it forward and sharing my experience with students as a classroom guest speaker, facilitating workshops and participating in career fairs. I am proud to read the testimonials of clients such as “She inspired our students to be more confident in who they are and be proud of their name.” “All attendees left with a true sense of what their next steps on their journey would be.”
Elena Lewis
Elena is an accomplished IT leader with over 15 years of expertise in networking, security, and services, driving world-class customer experiences through exceptional, diverse, and engaged teams. Beyond the tech realm, she is a passionate Confidence & Leadership Coach dedicated to empowering female professionals and leaders to break free from limiting beliefs and reach their full potential. Integrating her coaching practices into her photography work, Elena’s creative spirit shines through in her project “Confidence Through The Lens,” where she captures transformative moments that empower her clients to tap into their inner strength and vision. Committed to making a difference, her nonprofit, Girls Preparing for the Future, further amplifies her impact by nurturing a robust STEAM pillar alongside a holistic foundation for leadership, paving the way for the next generation of empowered trailblazers.

SESSION 1F – KRESGE LECTURE ROOM
PANEL DISCUSSION – A JOURNEY IN STEM
Ahmed Ramdan, Aynsley Szczseniak, Me’chelle Degree, Elena Lewis
SESSION 1F – KRESGE LECTURE ROOM
PANEL DISCUSSION – A JOURNEY IN STEM
Ahmed Ramdan, Aynsley Szczseniak, Me’Chelle Degree, Elena Lewis
Ahmed Ramdan
As a seasoned leader in the pharmaceutical industry, Ahmed Radwan has made significant strides in STEM, fostering innovation and efficiency in vaccine production and manufacturing operations. With over a decade of experience, Ahmed has managed teams responsible for crucial elements of vaccine production, from cell banking to filling, ensuring that life-saving vaccines are produced swiftly and safely. His leadership extends beyond routine management; he has spearheaded numerous initiatives that harness cutting-edge technologies, including AI and digital systems, to enhance manufacturing processes.
Ahmed’s commitment to STEM is not just about improving systems but also empowering the next generation of scientists. He has actively worked on diversifying the workforce, notably increasing gender and racial diversity in manufacturing roles. His mentoring efforts have enabled many aspiring young women to ascend to leadership positions within a historically male-dominated field. As the first male leader of Pfizer’s Women’s Resource Group, he has been a pivotal advocate for addressing gender-specific challenges in the workplace.
With a B.S. in Chemistry from Winston-Salem State University and a solid foundation in quality, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance, Ahmed embodies the role of a mentor and leader who is not only advancing the field of manufacturing but also paving the way for young women in STEM to thrive.
Aynsley Szczseniak
I’m Aynsley, a sophomore studying Biology, Mathematics, and Entrepreneurship at UNC Chapel Hill. I’m a proactive STEMinist and proud science nerd, and I intend to pursue a dual career as a trailblazer for women in STEM and a practicing physician in women’s health.
As a young woman in STEM, I understand the weight of imposter syndrome, and I’ve realized that what carries me through is self-confidence, self-advocacy, and a network of trusted mentors I can depend on. That’s why I’ve built Speak Out Sisterhood, a global nonprofit for young professional women in STEM. As CEO, I direct our Generation YES program, an eight-week remote internship empowering college women to research and develop solutions to barriers to women’s advancement in STEM. Our partners and our interns hail from all across the world, and we strive to cultivate a diverse community of courage, confidence, and curiosity.
As a Clinical Communications Intern with the Reproductive Health Access Project, I have honed my skills of impactful messaging (as well as my love of LinkedIn!). Translating news and medical education resources to our network of 8,000+ clinicians has taught me how reproductive health care lives at the intersection of medical knowledge and patient empowerment, and as a clinician, it’s my responsibility to validate the experiences of every person. Similarly, my mission as the President of the UNC chapter of the American Medical Student Association is to equip my classmates with resources and education to take action on the most pressing issues in modern healthcare.
What sets me apart? I create my own destiny, and rather than succumbing to the limitations of what currently exists, I see what could be and then I make it happen. I am a proactive, energetic social entrepreneur eager to tap into my experience building programs, organizing events, and mobilizing young changemakers. You’ll know me as an enthusiastic, motivated, reliable team player with a passion for learning from others.
My mission is to equip women with the skills and strength to fight for autonomy over their careers, their bodies, their choices and their lives. Let’s connect – I’d love to learn more about you!
Me’Chelle Degree
Two decades of business management experience, training, development and leadership consulting. These skills , along with my entrepreneurial spirit has enabled me to transition from managing projects within organizations to consulting with small and large organizations to develop employee’s leadership skills. As a John Maxwell Speaker, Trainer and Coach, I serve as a keynote speaker, orator, and panelist. I am known for designing interactive events that result in continuous sold out workshops, seminars, and conferences. Being such an action-oriented person, one that enjoys “Making Life Happen, instead of Life just happening”.
My love for people and my ability to strengthen a healthy relationship with fortune 500 companies empowered me to leverage and create first-time technology processes and systems that proved profitable for both the company and the vendor.
I have mastered the art of strategic leadership and developed a unique series of “Blueprint Leadership” Workshops for Women, College Students, Businesses and Religious Institutions. I believe in paying it forward and sharing my experience with students as a classroom guest speaker, facilitating workshops and participating in career fairs. I am proud to read the testimonials of clients such as “She inspired our students to be more confident in who they are and be proud of their name.” “All attendees left with a true sense of what their next steps on their journey would be.”
Elena Lewis
Elena is an accomplished IT leader with over 15 years of expertise in networking, security, and services, driving world-class customer experiences through exceptional, diverse, and engaged teams. Beyond the tech realm, she is a passionate Confidence & Leadership Coach dedicated to empowering female professionals and leaders to break free from limiting beliefs and reach their full potential. Integrating her coaching practices into her photography work, Elena’s creative spirit shines through in her project “Confidence Through The Lens,” where she captures transformative moments that empower her clients to tap into their inner strength and vision. Committed to making a difference, her nonprofit, Girls Preparing for the Future, further amplifies her impact by nurturing a robust STEAM pillar alongside a holistic foundation for leadership, paving the way for the next generation of empowered trailblazers.
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What to Expect
- Inspiring Keynote Speech: Hear from a prominent female STEM leader who will share her journey, challenges, and success.
- STEM Career Exploration: Engage with industry professionals and explore existing and emerging STEM careers.
- College Prep Sessions: Get insider tips on applying to colleges with STEM programs.
- Wellness & Leadership Workshops: Balance your mind and body with sessions that build personal strength and leadership skills.
- Networking Opportunities: Meet other students who share your interests and build connections for the future.


Conference Goals
- Inspire Girls to Pursue STEM Careers: Break down barriers and bridge the gap between passion and opportunity.
- Highlight Career Opportunities: Introduce attendees to a variety of STEM fields and industries.
- Promote Gender Diversity in STEM: Help close the gender gap in STEM industries and inspire the next generation of female leaders.
In celebration of the ATHENA in STEM Girls Conference, we are holding an exclusive t-shirt design contest
T-Shirt Design Contest | |
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Theme | Designs should reflect the spirit of empowering women in STEM. |
Eligibility | Open to all registered conference attendees. |
Submission Deadline | Friday, January 10, 2025 |
Prize | The winning design will be printed on the official conference t-shirts, and the winner will receive special recognition during the event! |
Submit your Design Here
Sponsored by:







Become a Sponsor
Support the future of women in STEM by becoming a sponsor of the ATHENA in STEM Girls Conference. Your sponsorship can help bridge the gender gap and empower young women to pursue meaningful careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
For sponsorship opportunities, contact:
Dr. Tiamesha Walker-Smith
director@athenatriangle.org
Join us on February 28, 2025, to spark your passion for STEM and connect with a community of inspiring women!
Don’t miss this chance to gain insights, build skills, and have fun!