The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is observing the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. This global initiative, supported by the United Nations, aims to ensure equal access for women and girls in science and technology education and careers. It also highlights the gender gap in STEM disciplines and the important role of women and girls in these fields.
Dr. Edward Simmer, DHEC Director, expressed his support for the initiative, noting the past limited opportunities for women in science. He acknowledged the contributions of women in DHEC, including those in leadership roles such as Environmental Affairs, Health Promotion and Services, Healthcare Quality, Chief-of-Staff, Finance and Operations, and Communications.
Myra Reece, DHEC Director of Environmental Affairs, with a background in microbiology and public health, urged girls and women to pursue science fields. She highlighted the role of science-derived data in DHEC’s operations to protect South Carolina’s resources.