History of CUWiP
According to the American Physical Society, nationally, women comprise just ~30% of undergraduate physics majors. Compared to other disciplines even within STEM, the numbers get even worse for those who continue on to PhD program in physics.
CUWiP is a network of 3-day regional conferences aimed at increasing retension of women and underrepresented minorities in physics and improving these dismal statistics. The first CUWiP was held in 2006 at the University of Southern California, independently organized by a group of female physics majors, who then invited APS to be the institutional home of the conference.
These conferences seek to connect undergraduate women in physics with mentors of all ages, from graduate students to faculty, and to strengthen the community of women in physics as a whole. Workshops and speakers will provide: information about graduate schools and professions in physics beyond the undergraduate years, “How I Got Here” stories, and advice for the challenges and decisions young women in physics are likely to face as they continue their careers. Yale University was among the first schools ever to host CUWiP beyond USC in 2008, and the organizing committee for CUWiP 2020 is so excited to be continuing that legacy.