Ferndale Phillips 66 donates WWU Youth Programs funding for 2018

Western Washington University Youth Programs has announced that the Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery will fund GEMS (Girls in Engineering, Math and Science) programs for 2018 with a donation of $4,000.

Donated funds will be used to cover main program costs for all programs including GEMS Fair, GEMS Academy and GEMS Night Out. In addition, the funds will provide scholarships for more than 25 students to GEMS Academy this Saturday, March 3. 

“We believe that education drives the world's economic future. The foundation of that future begins in our local classrooms and in programs where educators and volunteers can inspire curiosity and instill a passion for life-long learning.  The Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery is proud to partner with Western and the GEMS program to provide support along the way,” said Jolie Rhinehart, refinery manager. 

Western’s GEMS programs intend to provide opportunities for girls to learn and excel in the fields of engineering, math, and science and support STEM innovation. The representation of women in STEM careers has increased over the last 40 years, yet men still overwhelmingly outnumber women in scientific and engineering fields. Expanding the STEM workforce is crucial to increasing economic creativity and competitiveness, according to the U.S. Department of Education.  

The goal of Western’s GEMS programs is to provide a safe and empowering space for girls to explore STEM fields and meet other girls that share those interests.

For more information on Western Washington University Youth Programs, visit wwu.edu/youth, e-mail youth@wwu.edu or call (360) 650-3308.

WWU is an equal opportunity institution. For disability accommodation, please contact Extended Education at 360-650-3308 or ExtendedEd@wwu.edu.