Evonik donates $100,000 to Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown, Pa.

• Donation to sponsor Women in Science & Engineering (WISE) Initiative 
• Ongoing support of education and diversity in STEM
• Increased commitment to Lehigh Valley community

Evonik, one of the world's leading specialty chemicals companies, has donated $100,000 to sponsor the Women in Science & Engineering (WISE) Initiative of the Da Vinci Science Center, the award-winning science museum in Allentown, Pennsylvania. WISE was established in 2014 as part of the Science Center's broader commitment to supporting women and girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). The initiative is dedicated to creating a supportive community of women employed in STEM fields and mentoring girls who seek career paths in these areas. The donation underscores Evonik's ongoing commitment to support education and diversity in STEM.

"Evonik is proud to sponsor WISE and support girls and women with an interest in science from middle school through college, as well as seasoned professionals," said Jean Vincent, member of Evonik's North America Leadership Team (NALT) and Senior Vice President R&D Specialty Additives based in Allentown. "We are certain the WISE initiative will foster a love for science and technology and inspire the next generation of women in chemistry.” Vincent serves as co-chair of the WISE executive advisory council.

"Evonik is committed to creating a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our employees and customers. We are happy to support women and girls in our community that are interested in STEM careers," added Tracey Mole, Vice President Business & Innovation Center at Evonik's Allentown site. ”Careers in STEM have a promising future, and we look forward to deepening the collaboration with the Da Vinci Science Center."

The annual WISE Forum, the initiative's signature event, provides an opportunity for professional women in STEM to mentor interested students. Other programs include network events for professionals and STEM career showcases for women and girls. "We are excited to have Evonik partner with WISE. The donation will allow us to expand our program and networking opportunities," said Lin Erickson, Executive Director and CEO of the Da Vinci Science Center.

Evonik employs more than 300 people at its Allentown site. The site is centrally located between Philadelphia and New York City in the Lehigh Valley and plays a key role in Evonik's research and development activities in the North America region. “Evonik’s business and innovation center in Allentown is a crucial part of our success story in North America,” said Bonnie Tully, President North America region. “We are looking forward to growing our roots in the Lehigh Valley.”