Naoko Kurahashi Neilson, astroparticle physicist at Drexel University
Sacred Hearts Academy will host its 22nd Science Symposium for Girls, 7:45-11:30 a.m., Feb. 20 at its Kaimuki campus at 3253 Waialae Avenue. It is free and open to girls in grades 5-8.
The symposium’s featured speaker will be Naoko Kurahashi Neilson, an astroparticle physicist at Drexel University in Philadelphia who earned her PhD by “listening” for high energy particles originating from outside our galaxy. She has also studied deep water ocean creatures. Her keynote address promises to “open the universe” to girls.
Following the address, girls will attend hands-on workshops, while parents have a session with Kurahashi Neilson on effective communication and the development of positive self-esteem in their daughters.
The student program consists of 21 career workshops by local professionals including a veterinarian, an optometrist, an ocean reef specialist, a textile designer, molecular gastronomy chef and medical doctor.
To register for the symposium, go to www.sacredhearts.org/sciencesymposium2016 or call 734-5058, extension 232.