Empowering the Next Generation of Tech Leaders: DeVry University Brings HerWorld to Atlanta

Atlanta, GA – March 24, 2026 – As artificial intelligence rapidly reshapes workplaces and classrooms alike, DeVry University is expanding its commitment to preparing future tech leaders — starting with middle school girls.

The university hosted its HerWorld event at the Warren Boys & Girls Club in Atlanta, welcoming 100 girls for an afternoon of hands-on, fun STEM learning, mentorship and interactive workshops. Designed for students in grades 5 through 8, HerWorld aims to build curiosity around science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers while strengthening digital fluency and technology confidence.

“For 95 years, DeVry has been focused on equipping students with tech-forward skills,” said Scarlett Howery, vice president of strategic partnerships at DeVry University. “As we prepare learners for a rapidly evolving digital era, we recognize both the opportunity and responsibility that comes with it. That’s why we’ve taken a deliberate approach to integrating AI throughout the learner journey, ensuring students develop the technical and durable skills needed to succeed in an AI-augmented workforce.”

DeVry recently announced its commitment to embed AI literacy and skill-building into 100% of its courses by the end of 2026. University leaders say initiatives like HerWorld underscore a broader goal: equipping young learners with the confidence, adaptability and real-world skills needed to innovate and lead in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Inspiring Young Women to Lead in Tech

While women have made significant progress in STEM fields, they remain underrepresented across many technology sectors. Educators say early exposure is key to closing that gap. Dr. La’Quata Sumter, professor at DeVry’s College of Engineering and Information Sciences, has spent more than 15 years inspiring students to pursue careers in technology. She has witnessed the transformative power of hands-on, real-world learning.

“I have seen firsthand how valuable hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving are. Initiatives such as HerWorld help fuel the next generation of female tech professionals,” she noted. “Learning about STEM, experiencing activities, and seeing women represented in these careers will help build confidence and possibility.”

The event featured a fireside chat moderated by Scarlett Howery, highlighting accomplished women leaders including Ayana Nathan, Head of Healthcare Vertical Market at Siemens; Dr. Sumter; and Crystle Ryland, Business Operations Coordinator at Georgia Power. The discussion centered on navigating careers in STEM, overcoming challenges and embracing leadership opportunities.

“Many girls don’t perceive themselves as successful in tech careers simply because they lack visible role models,” Sumter added. “HerWorld connects them with successful female leaders and provides real-world experiences so they can begin to see themselves in those roles.”

Hands-On Learning Builds Confidence

Following the panel discussion, participants rotated through breakout sessions held in the club’s Teen Center. Activities included a drone obstacle course and drone coding workshops led by DeVry faculty, an AI-focused session presented by USAII, and interactive science labs such as “Go Mad for STEM with Ce the Scientist” workshop for attendees.

From piloting drones through obstacle courses to coding flight paths, students engaged directly with the kind of technology shaping the workforce.

Organizers say these tactile experiences are critical. By making technology tangible and accessible, the program helps demystify complex concepts and foster confidence in girls who may not yet see themselves as future engineers, programmers or data scientists.

Partnerships That Propel Progress

HerWorld is part of DeVry’s longstanding partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), which includes the DeVry STEM Lab at a Boys & Girls Club location in South Elgin, Illinois. Through community collaboration, the university continues to expand access to STEM education.

“I am extremely passionate about this initiative because it's never too early to spark interest in STEM careers,” said Howery. “HerWorld empowers young students to see themselves as future leaders and innovators by tapping into their curiosity through hands-on experiences and inspiring messages from women working in STEM fields.”

“Together, BGCA, DeVry University, and Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta demonstrate what’s possible when collaboration meets intention—creating space for girls to explore, ask questions, build confidence, and begin to see themselves as innovators, leaders, and problem-solvers in fields where they’ve historically been underrepresented,” added Danelle Young, national director of accounts for Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

As AI continues to redefine the future of work, DeVry leaders say investing in early STEM exposure is essential. Through innovative programs, mentorship and community partnerships, HerWorld is helping build pathways for the next generation of female professionals — one drone flight, one coding session at a time.