Fairfax County School Board honors Regeneron ISEF finalists and proclaims Women in Engineering Day

As the sun dipped below the horizon on June 26, 2025, the Fairfax County School Board convened for a meeting that celebrated both academic excellence and the empowerment of women in engineering. The evening began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stirring performance of the national anthem by Jocelyn Mooney, a talented student from South Lakes High School, setting a tone of pride and community spirit.

Among the key highlights of the meeting was a proclamation honoring the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students who participated in the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). This global competition, which has been inspiring young scientists for over 70 years, saw 1,700 students from 67 countries compete for nearly $9 million in awards. The board recognized the dedication and hard work of local finalists, including students from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology and Langley High School, who exemplified the spirit of scientific inquiry and innovation.

The board also took a moment to honor International Women in Engineering Day, observed annually on June 23. This proclamation highlighted the significant contributions of women engineers throughout history and the ongoing need for gender equity in the engineering and STEAM fields. The board acknowledged trailblazers like Dr. Ayanna Howard and Katherine Johnson, whose legacies continue to inspire future generations. Despite the progress made, the meeting underscored the stark reality that women, particularly women of color, remain underrepresented in engineering roles, making up only 16% of the engineering workforce in the United States.

In response to this challenge, the FCPS is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that encourages all students to explore careers in STEAM. Initiatives such as Girls in Engineering, Math and Science, and partnerships with organizations like Girls Who Code aim to create pathways for young women to enter these fields. The board's proclamation called on the community to recognize and celebrate the contributions of women engineers, past, present, and future, while advocating for equitable access to engineering opportunities for all students.

As the meeting concluded, the board's resolutions resonated with a sense of hope and determination, reflecting a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and leaders in science and engineering. The evening was not just a gathering of officials; it was a celebration of potential, perseverance, and the promise of a brighter future for all students in Fairfax County.