STEM NOMINEES
For outstanding advancement to the field of Science, Technology, Engineering & Math.
Award Presented by:
Susan Cudahy, Supervisor Strategic Builder Relationships, Enbridge
Alison Carden
Alison Carden is a leader and champion of women in STEM. She’s dedicated her career to helping communities improve lives through technology innovations and 16 years working in the digital field, coaching, and mentoring young women to explore science, technology, engineering, and math. A distinguished Software Engineering Technology graduate of Conestoga College, Alison leads the Product Development Team as Global Director at GHD Digital. She inspires others through volunteering at events like “Girls Who Code” and “Girls Who Hack” as well as through committees she heads including as chair of Women at GHD and the inclusion and diversity committee.
Anita Layton
Anita Layton is a Professor of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Pharmacy and Biology at the University of Waterloo. She leads a diverse, interdisciplinary team of researchers who use computational modeling tools to better understand aspects of health and disease, making ground-breaking research in mathematical physiology and medicine. Anita is also a mentor to students and postdocs and champion for equity initiatives here in Canada and the US. Her own research group is gender balanced, with most members being from racialized groups, and takes every opportunity to advance, mentor and support the participation of women and girls in the mathematical sciences.
Ashley Mehlenbacher
Ashley Rose Mehlenbacher (BA, University of Waterloo; MA, University of Waterloo; PhD, NC State University) is an extraordinary teacher and researcher. She is an Associate Professor and Tier II Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Science, Health, and Technology Communication at the University of Waterloo. She is also the Co-Director, with Donna Strickland, of the Trust in Research Undertaken in Science and Technology (TRuST) network and Co-Editor, with Carolyn R. Miller, of Genre Across Borders. Ashley is the author of multiple books and has won numerous external awards and grants for her research supporting effective discourse about science and technology.
Dinah Davis
Dinah Davis originally planned to become a math teacher at her high school guidance counsellor's suggestion because that’s what girls who are good at math do, right?! While at university to become a teacher, Dinah discovered her passion was in computer science and cybersecurity. This led her to a 20-year career in technology. Dinah has overcome many challenges over the years. She has become a fierce advocate for women in technology and an active member of the women in the tech community within the Waterloo Region. In 2015 she founded Codelikeagirl.io, an online publication focused on changing perceptions of Women in Technology.