Women in Computer Science

Valerie Barr
Department of Computer Science
Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY
vbarr@husun3.hofstra.edu

Wednesday, November 20th, 2002

Abstract

In 1984, 37% of BA/BS degrees awarded in Computer Science nationwide were earned by women. By 1994 that number was down to 28%. Since then the number has fallen even further. Yet all is not gloom and doom. In this talk I will discuss some of the problems as well as some of the success stories, and some of the ongoing efforts to encourage women to enter and stay in computer science. I'll include discussion of the Carnegie Mellon experience, the Institute for Women and Technology, and the Grace Hopper Celebrations of Women in Computing.