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Starting in 2015, WinS Research and Programs Director Dr. Eden Hennessey began creating photo-research exhibits to highlight the experiences, challenges, and successes of women in STEM. These exhibits pair striking images of real-life women with evidence-based research regarding gender equity and representation.
Learn more on Dr. Hennessey's website.
#DistractinglySexist
Jennifer Moss, co-founder and former CMO, Plasticity Labs.
The first exhibit from 2015, #DistractinglySexist, features participants from the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge area, known colloquially as "Canada's Silicon Valley." This exhibit focuses on the consequences of standing up to bias in science.
#DistractinglyHonest
Leanne Holland-Brown, former Dean of Students, Laurier.
The second photo-research exhibit from 2016 was #DistractinglyHonest. Along a similar theme to the first exhibit, this work focuses on standing up to bias, and the progress being made toward greater equity in STEM.
#TurningTablesinSTEM
Dr. Emily Agard, immunologist and director of SciXchange at Toronto Metropolitan University.
The third photo-research exhibit, launched in 2019, is titled #TurningTablesinSTEM. This exhibit celebrates the successes of women in STEM careers, bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table.
Building Equitable Trades
313a Refrigeration Mechanic/Gas Fitter 1 and HVAC Instructor Brandi Ferenc.
The fourth and most current photo-research exhibit, launched in 2024 in partnership with Conestoga College, is entitled Building Equitable Trades. In Canada, women consist of less than 5% of the papered skilled trade workforce, which is even lower than the numbers in STEM fields. This exhibit highlights women from a wide range of trades, identifying their challenges and celebrating their victories.