CTG and UAlbany's College of Computing and Information are co-sponsoring Microsoft's second annual DigiGirlz Day in Albany, which provides high school girls with a better understanding of what a career in technology is all about. With DigiGirlz Day, Microsoft hopes to significantly increase the number of young women involved in technology-focused careers, and to set an example for other corporations to pursue avenues of inclusion in the workplace. DigiGirlz Day’s purpose is to dispel myths of what it means to have a career in the high-tech industry and give girls a chance to experience firsthand what it is like to develop cutting-edge technology.

“Microsoft’s DigiGirlz Day strives to provide young women with the necessary expertise and direction to succeed in a world becoming more dependent on the latest technologies and innovations,” said Connie Mitchell Dean, an Albany-based director for Microsoft. “We believe that the day will help dismiss any stereotypes of the high-tech industry catering solely to males. We are also excited to have so much community support from local organizations to highlight the importance of technology in many diffe

"CTG is excited to participate as a co-sponsor of Digigirlz again," said Theresa Pardo, director of CTG. "Through DigiGirlz, Microsoft wants to show that they are bringing up a new generation of innovative women leaders and helping girls change their future through the use of technology."

Over fifty girls from Albany area high schools have been selected to participated in the high-energy, content rich day. In addition to meeting with successful female executives at Microsoft, the girls will have opportunities to hear from keynote speakers, experience hands on courses, and explore the latest innovative technology.

Included among the speakers are local women professionals from New York State government, St. Peters Hospital, and Vicarious Visions. Sharon Cates-Williams, Deputy Chief Information Officer of New York State, will give the opening keynote address. Dr. Ann Marie Murray, president of Herkimer Community College will give the afternoon keynote, and Theresa Pardo, director of CTG, will provide closing remarks for the day.

More than 13,700 students have benefited from the Microsoft DigiGirlz Technology Programs (both camps and one-day events) since they began in 2000. DigiGirlz provides the opportunity to meet one on one with senior level Microsoft executives, participate in workshops and product demonstrations, and shadow employees possessing similar interests.

For more information, please visit the program site at www.microsoft.com/digigirlz