Northeastern University in Toronto Champions Women in STEM and Beyond
At the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158 — 133 years from now — to achieve full gender parity. This is where the theme of the 2025 International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, comes in. The campaign emphasized the need to “Accelerate Action,” calling for increased momentum and urgency in tackling the systemic barriers and biases women face, personally and professionally.
At Northeastern University in Toronto, that theme is realized in various ways throughout the year. It’s a commitment reflected in everything from accessible programming and a targeted focus on areas where women remain underrepresented — such as science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) — to meaningful events and new partnerships. Together, these efforts have become integral to the University’s mission.
“Throughout my career across various industries, I have often been the only woman in the room and at the conference table,” says Carol Hannam, a faculty member in Biotechnology at the Toronto campus. “Northeastern University in Toronto is one of the places where that hasn’t been the case, and it’s reflected in everything from our leadership, where women account for over 50 per cent of that team, to our approach to education.”
A Focus on Women in STEM
With women holding 34 per cent of STEM degrees in Canada but making up less than one-quarter of those employed in STEM, Northeastern University in Toronto is making a concerted effort to support women in related occupations. Data backs the need for such efforts. According to Statistics Canada, “continued growth is expected for STEM occupations, which suggests that there will be greater demand for STEM-educated workers in the future. Increasing women’s participation in [these fields] has been identified as one way of meeting the growing demand.”
“Traditionally, many systems have not been designed for women, which has created barriers,” Hannam says. “Promotions and tenure, for example, have historically been challenging for women because our career journeys may differ from men’s.
“Even seemingly small things can make a difference. I once encountered a STEM entrepreneurship program targeted at mid-career women that was held on weekdays from 7:30 to 8:30 am. However, many women I know spend a decade during the middle of their careers getting children on the school bus during that time. They were effectively shut out of this program that was designed for them.
“It’s essential to redesign systems to ensure women feel encouraged and supported from early in their lives to ensure women have the opportunity to participate.”
Northeastern University in Toronto employs a multi-pronged educational approach that considers women’s unique challenges.
For instance, programs such as the Master of Science in Information Systems – Bridge, designed for students from non-STEM backgrounds, and the Master of Professional Studies in Analytics, provide accessible pathways into the industry. Once accepted into Northeastern programs, students benefit from integrated experiential learning. Hands-on opportunities enable women and their peers to acquire real-world experience in a supportive environment, which builds confidence before graduation. Flexibility through hybrid or online delivery for domestic students is another way Northeastern University makes education accessible for a diverse range of women.
“Northeastern is a very collaborative environment that aligns well with STEM because in STEM nothing is accomplished in isolation,” says Hannam. “For example, we stress mentorship at the university, which requires collaboration. Our faculty members are happy to participate as mentors and nothing beats in-person networking, so we facilitate those opportunities for students.”
An Empowering Event
On March 24, the Northeastern University in Toronto community can learn more about the importance of mentorship at the annual Women Who Empower event. The university’s Women Who Empower network aims to foster positive environments, build lasting connections, and provide compelling experiences where everyone thrives. Its key areas include financial support, mentorship, networking, the Innovator Awards, and events.
This year’s Toronto panel, “The Importance and Power of Mentorship: Women Leaders Driving Development,” will celebrate the collaborative power of mentorship, specifically from women leaders. It will highlight their role in establishing supportive foundations that bridge gaps, empower, and inspire others.
The event is in collaboration with the Women Leaders in Pharma mentoring committee, which seeks to empower women working in and associated with the pharmaceutical industry to reach their full potential. Hannam will moderate.
“I’m excited to hear our panelists’ experiences and their guidance for our students and community,” says Hannam of the event. “The more we encourage young women to seek female mentors, the easier their journeys will be. So, it is essential to familiarize people with the role of mentorship in their careers.”
Unique Efforts to Make STEM More Accessible
Northeastern University in Toronto is extending its dedication to make STEM accessible to women beyond its classrooms and campus. As part of its efforts, the university has partnered with GIST, a Canadian women-led sports media brand that advocates for equal coverage of women’s and men’s sports, to promote its STEM-related programs through advertising.
Engaging with platforms like GIST that advocate for women and underrepresented groups enables the university to connect with audiences that share its commitment to championing equal opportunities. Such initiatives contribute to ensuring women receive the visibility, resources, and opportunities they deserve in education, careers, and leadership.
“Women need to be in the room across all industries so people can understand how decisions impact different groups,” says Hannam. “To innovate, you have to have diverse representation. Businesses can’t afford to limit themselves to one world view. They must reflect our global, connected world, and women play an important role.”
Attend the Women Who Empower panel on March 24 to gain new insights on mentorship. The event is open exclusively to Northeastern Toronto partners, alumni, and affiliates. To register, please email [email protected].
By Izabela Shubair