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1. What is WIBS?
2. Is WIBS a feminist political activist group?
3. Now that the percentage of women in biological sciences has reached 50%, why is there a need for an organization like WIBS?
4. What is your logo?
5. Who can join WIBS?
6. Can non-UA affiliates join WIBS?
7. What is the difference between WIBS and WISE?
8. How do I get involved?

Q: What is WIBS?
A:
WIBS is a student run organization that focuses on providing support for science majors and information relating to scientific fields of study. We are committed to achieving equal opportunities for all minorities in science through academic excellence, building a network that bridges the student/faculty barrier, as well as providing information about career opportunities and additional resources to help students reach their personal goals. We highlight issues that may be of special interest to women in science, seeking to increase recruitment and promotion through scholarship, mentoring, philanthropy, and leadership.

Q: Is WIBS a feminist political activist group?
A:
WIBS is a non-profit organization and is not affiliated with any political party or current campaign issues. We seek to enhance the undergraduate experience for women and minorities, by providing resources to increase higher education and career opportunities and create a more inclusive environment.

Q: Now that the percentage of women in biological sciences has reached 50%, why is there a need for an organization like WIBS?
A:
It is true that the status of undergraduate women in biological sciences has reached 50% or higher at most major research universities. However, the retention and promotion rates of women and minorities in academia and industry are alarming. Studies show that professional women and minorities remain grossly underpaid than their white male colleagues; and women and minorities remain underrepresented in tenure-track positions and leadership positions.

Q: What is your logo?
A:
The WIBS logo is a double-helix transforming into a form of Nike, the goddess of victory. It is symbolic of the genetic building blocks that unite all mankind, and Nike, who personifies triumph.

Q: Who can join WIBS?
A:
Anyone can join WIBS! We welcome all individuals, regardless of gender, race/ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, to participate in WIBS activities, meetings, and events.

Q: Can non-UA affiliates join WIBS?
A:
We welcome all UA faculty and students, as well as the surrounding scientific community to participate in WIBS activities, meetings, and events.

Q: What is the difference between WIBS and WISE?
A:
WIBS is a student run organization that focuses on providing support for science majors and information relating to biological fields of study. The WISE program, established in 1976 as part of the Women’s Studies Department, works to motivate K-16 female students to enter careers in science, engineering, mathematics, and technology; a goal of both of our organizations is to facilitate collaboration among women’s groups on campus, including the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), Women in Computer Sciences (WICS), and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE).

Q: How do I get involved?
A:
Fill out and submit our online application! The application is just an opportunity for you to tell us about yourself! For more information, please contact Rachel at raesum@email.arizona.edu.






Wendy Ingram