What started as a two-day workshop in January 2016 has grown into ten years of investment in Black women and girls in computing+tech.
Where we began
In 2016, our founders noticed a gap that even women's tech conferences weren't filling.
Our founders, experienced computing researchers and professionals, saw that while attending technical conferences, some of them designed for women, there was still a gap in programs and training that supported women of color.
The stories of Black women in computing, their educational experiences and how they persist in computer science were not well understood, or built into programs designed for student resilience and success. That was an opportunity to understand the differences Black women in computing+tech experience, and how they can be better supported in school and at work.
So in January 2016, we brought together 24 Black women in computing from universities and industry for a two-day workshop with two goals: to explore the intersectional experiences of Black women in the computing sciences, and to turn what we learned into an action plan that addresses the lack of awareness around this intersectionality.
Other women of color, including Hispanic and Native American women, have similar experiences.
We help Black women and girls thrive in school, work and life. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach her fullest potential.
The 2016 workshop participants identified seven themes, then built an action plan for each, with a lead for every next step.
From one workshop to eight conferences, a first-of-its-kind Fellows program and published research.
24 Black women in computing from universities and industry meet for two days and leave with an action plan across seven themes.
Our gatherings grew from 24 women in 2016 to more than 200 in 2019, our largest in-person convening. We have now held eight conferences, virtual and in person.
A first-of-its-kind 12-month program of professional development, mentoring and technical training for Black women professionals and graduate students. More than 100 women have come through it.
We released the Special Issue on Situating the Intersectional Experiences of Black Girls and Women in Computing & Technology, answering the gap in collective research our founders named in 2016.
Our residential leadership program launches in Atlanta, and a founding cohort begins shaping BCH membership.
Workshops, videocasts and community in one place, year-round, starting with the four-part CEO Series.
Our board, sponsors and partners make this work possible, alongside the members and Fellows who carry it forward.
Our partners have included the American Association of Colleges and Universities, HP Inc., the Kapor Center for Social Impact, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and select HBCUs.