The JetBlue Foundation Hosts a Special Screening Of “Hidden Figures,” Exposing Young Girls To STEM Careers
The JetBlue Foundation recently partnered with The Greater New York Chapter of The Links Inc. to host a special screening of “Hidden Figures” for young people often under-represented in STEM education and careers. The JetBlue Foundation invited past grant winners and partner schools and programs from the New York metropolitan area including Aviation High School, Brooklyn Girl Scouts, DigiGirlz, InnerVisions Dance, Queens Girl Scouts, Queens Chapter of Jack & Jill of America, Inc., York College Aviation Institute, Young Women's Leadership School, Queens and Petals-N-Belles.
The actresses in the film recently made news for funding screenings for low-income families. “Hidden Figures” is a powerful story focusing on the three African-American women behind NASA’s first successful space missions in the 1960s. This is perfect inspiration for young women of color who are not often exposed to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). However, at $15 per movie tickets, the demographic that needs to see it the most, may not be able to afford to see it in theaters.
The screening started with a panel featuring women and minority pilots. Captain. Becky Roman-Amador, Captain Ophneal Kellman Jr. and First Officer Kimberly McCommon shared how STEM has shaped their careers and when their passion for aviation began. In addition to the movie, concessions and a copy of the book “Hidden Figures” by Margot Shetterly were provided to all attendees.
