HERMITAGE — Several Hermitage High School eighth grade students recently participated in the Girls of Promise Conference, joining students from across the state for a day focused on leadership and STEM exploration.
The students earned their opportunity to attend by submitting essays and receiving strong recommendations, joining approximately 170 eighth grade girls from schools throughout Arkansas.
While at the conference, participants heard from speakers including Marcie Doderer, President and CEO of Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Students also took part in hands-on activities designed to introduce them to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Activities included creating makeup through chemistry concepts in a session led by L’Oréal, exploring nursing through virtual reality simulations, and learning about electricity and energy.
Hermitage educator Alexis Dunaway also attended the event, participating in sessions focused on mental health as well as a presentation titled “Catch Me If You Can” led by Arkansas State Police Major Stacie Rhodes.
Students representing Hermitage included Alexa Hargis, Emma Parker, Damaris Castillo, and Sadie Smith.
School officials said they were proud of the students for earning the opportunity and representing Hermitage High School at the event.
