CTG and UAlbany’s College of Computing and Information recently co-sponsored Microsoft's DigiGirlz Day, which provides high school girls with a better understanding of what a career in technology is all about. Participants learned from leaders in various fields including software, engineering, healthcare, academia, and government. The day-long program at the University at Albany included hands-on activities designed to demonstrate how technology can empower girls in fun and productive ways.

Twenty-three girls from Albany area high schools participated in the high-energy, content rich day. CTG director, Theresa Pardo, and program manager, Donna Canestrero were part of the organizing committee; Donna also moderated one of the panels. The day consisted of dynamic speakers and interactive sessions, including:

• U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
• Martha Dorris, Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Citizen Services and Communications, US General Services Administration
• Sharon Cates-Williams, Deputy CIO, State of New York
• Sandra Fox, Director of Technology Operations, Clough Harbour Associates

In addition, there was a high level of support from community partners:

• St. Peters Hospital team (career panel and breakout session)
• Vicarious Visions team (career panel, breakout session, ice breaker, and lunch entertainment)
• Students from the University at Albany-SUNY and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)
• Hannaford

For more information, please visit the program site at www.microsoft.com/digigirlz