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Tara Cox
Assistant Director of Programs at The National Girls Collaborative
Professional Background
Tara Cox is a dedicated advocate for expanding opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for underrepresented groups. As the Assistant Director of Programs at the National Girls Collaborative (NGC), she plays a pivotal role in orchestrating various national STEM initiatives that aim to inspire young girls to engage with and pursue careers in these fields. With years of experience in education and program development, Tara's efforts are instrumental in nurturing a more inclusive STEM community.
In her current position, Tara manages a multitude of programs designed to enhance STEM education and accessibility. One of her notable roles is serving as Co-Principal Investigator for a significant National Science Foundation-funded project titled "Leap into Science: Cultivating a National Network for Science and Literacy." This initiative focuses on creating a robust train-the-trainer network, allowing educators across the country to facilitate science learning in conjunction with literacy. Through this work, Tara aims to bridge gaps in education and promote lifelong learning among children, particularly those from traditionally marginalized communities.
Previously, Tara contributed her expertise at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, PA, where she held various positions including Senior Manager of Programs and Senior Manager of Professional Development. These roles allowed her to lead outreach efforts and develop educators' professional skills, helping them to foster engaging science curricula for students of all backgrounds. Her commitment to education and the effective dissemination of knowledge has been a hallmark of her career.
Education and Achievements
Tara Cox holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Anthropology from Barnard College, Columbia University. Her academic background in anthropology has provided her with invaluable insights into cultural differences and educational needs, which she effectively applies in her professional roles. The interdisciplinary approach she developed during her studies has equipped her with tools to understand and address the challenges faced by students in STEM fields.
Born in Belgrade, Serbia, Tara is a fluent speaker of Serbian, which adds another layer to her communication skills and her ability to connect with diverse audiences. Her multilingualism enhances her outreach efforts and broadens her impact in various STEM initiatives.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Tara has achieved notable accomplishments that reflect her commitment to education and equity in STEM. Her leadership at the National Girls Collaborative has led to the successful implementation of programs that not only promote the importance of STEM education for girls but also create supportive networks for educators and students alike.
As the Co-Principal Investigator of the Leap into Science project, Tara has facilitated nationwide collaborations aimed at integrating science education with literacy, demonstrating her dedication to holistic education approaches. Her experience as an Anthropology Educator at the American Museum of Natural History highlights her ability to engage learners in scientific discovery and cultural education, amplifying her role as a bridge between informal education settings and formal schooling.
In addition to her educational background and professional endeavors, Tara's passion for STEM extends beyond her career. She actively seeks out innovative projects and partnerships within the educational landscape, aiming to create pathways for children of all backgrounds to explore and thrive in STEM disciplines.
Currently residing in Philadelphia with her husband Shawn, Tara continues to champion educational initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM. Her journey and dedication reflect a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of young learners and educators across the nation.
