Sisters in STEM at Reading Science Center Receives a 2024 Good Skin Knowledge Grant

January 15, 2025

Sisters in STEM at Reading Science Center was awarded the American Academy of Dermatology’s 2024 Good Skin Knowledge Grant, thanks to the leadership of Jemima Constanza, MPH, a second-year medical student at Drexel University College of Medicine. The grant funded educational programming for 21 girls ranging from 8 to 13 years old in the Reading, Pa., community. This initiative showcased the importance of loving our hair, skin and nails.

Top row: Jemima Constanza (M2), Charles Ritchie (M1), Amanda Hsieh (M1), Amna Dogar (M1), Jennifer Lopez (M2). Second lower row: Stephanie Augustin (M2), Cristina Martel (M1), Joana Kyle (M2) and Basira Iginla (M2).
Top row: Jemima Constanza (M2), Charles Ritchie (M1), Amanda Hsieh (M1), Amna Dogar (M1), Jennifer Lopez (M2). Second lower row: Stephanie Augustin (M2), Cristina Martel (M1), Joana Kyle (M2) and Basira Iginla (M2).

Sisters in STEM at the Reading Science Center with Sarah Troy, director of programming
Sisters in STEM at the Reading Science Center with Sarah Troy, director of programming

Erum Ilyas, MD, MBE, interim academic chair of dermatology, served as mentor for the grant and provided resources for the community. Sarah Troy, director of programming for Sisters in STEM, and the Reading Science Center staff, provided invaluable insights and assistance in every session. Acknowledgements to Dana Peterson, PhD for connecting us with the Sisters in STEM.

First- and second-year medical students served as volunteers throughout the four sessions, which focused on:

  • Introduction to skin
  • Plants and bugs
  • Acne
  • Sun safety

Since its launch in 2013, the AAD’s Good Skin Knowledge Program has educated more than 16,500 children. The goal of the program is to teach young people the facts about common skin, hair and nail conditions. Misunderstanding can lead to teasing and bullying, which is associated with anxiety and depression. The AAD Good Skin Knowledge Grant supports nonprofit and community-based organizations in efforts to educate children in underserved populations.