Impact Stories

Shaped by a deep commitment to breaking barriers and empowering others, Beth Wadle’s journey is an inspiring one. As a young woman, fields like math and science were not considered a traditional career path.  Nevertheless, she pressed on, and her determination earned her two engineering degrees. She went on to a more than 30-year career as one of the few women in her field of choice, the intelligence community. Although she was often the youngest person in the room during that time, Beth used her standing to encourage other women to follow in her footsteps and pursue STEM careers.

• Only 1.8 percent of charitable giving is dedicated to women and girls, and the share dedicated to women of color is even smaller; approximately 0.5% in the U.S. (Source: Women and Girls Index, 2023)
• In 2021, women represented 35% of the STEM workforce; up from 32% in 2010 (Source: National Science Foundation). Specifically, women make up 25% of jobs in computer science and 15% of jobs in engineering (Source: Pew Research Center, 2021)
• In evaluating STEM programming by impact on girls interest, confidence, competence and value, GirlScounts USA found that participation in even ONE program can make a difference

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia’s Giving Circle Supports Local Women’s Philanthropy