SWE has over 300 collegiate Sections and Affiliates, all who strive to empower women to achieve their full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expand the image of the engineering and technology professions as a positive force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrate the value of diversity and inclusion. While these shared goals and values unite us, each SWE group also has an original story and unique point of view.
SWE HQ is excited to spotlight the SWE Spelman College Affiliate in Atlanta, GA. We spoke with FY22 President Samantha Haughawout so we can get to know them and introduce Spelman to our SWE community.
How did you become involved with the SWE Affiliate at Spelman College?
Spelman College hosts a student organization fair each academic year to publicize opportunities for students to get involved. During my freshman year, I learned about the Society of Women Engineers by fellow students interested in bringing SWE to Spelman College.
They had been involved with SWE as individual members. With the support of our Faculty Advisor, myself and another student initiated the process for Spelman College to become an affiliate. I serve as the President.
How does your school or community benefit from having a SWE Affiliate?
Establishing a SWE Affiliate at Spelman College affords aspiring black women engineers an opportunity to build a community of intellectual thinkers and problem solvers who can confidently thrive in their purpose and excellence.
Activities such as career development, technical development, scholarship programs, and social networks assist our members with enhancing their professional skills. Our diverse backgrounds and paths to Spelman create a unique, fruitful experience for each of us. SWE provides us with a space of unity and connectivity.
The Spelman College SWE Affiliate participated in a SWE picnic hosted by the Georgia Tech SWE Section, where SWE groups in the Atlanta area networked with each other through food and painting.
Can you describe one of your group’s typical meetings or events? Do they take place mostly virtually, in-person, or a mix of both?
The Spelman College SWE Affiliate plans and hosts events periodically that address desired learning areas for our members. They are designed to engage members in workshop formats with topics ranging from resume building to insider information on careers of interest. Social events are also important to host to give members an opportunity to maintain a healthy balance, relax, and connect. Movie nights and hang out sessions have worked well.
Do you have any advice for other engineering students looking to start a new SWE Section or Affiliate at their school?
Do it! The benefits it will bring to you and your school are abundant. In fact, it would be great to have a SWE Section/Affiliate throughout one’s education.
We would recommend starting a SWE Affiliate and then a collegiate section, which we are in the transition process for now. This way you are able to give yourself enough time to find sponsors that will invest in your school’s organization, as well as a faculty advisor and engaged members to support it.
Spelman Affiliate members at the WOW event, where they volunteered at local high schools to get young girls excited and involved in STEM/Engineering.
Is there anything else about your group you would like to share with the SWE Community?
Spelman College is excited to represent the next generation of engineers that are ready to change the world. With our innovation, empathetic approach to science and technology, commitment to serving our community, and our persistent strive for excellence, the Spelman SWE affiliation is here to show up and show out!
Learn how to start a SWE Section or Affiliate at your school here!
