AHA Earns AP Computer Science A Female Diversity Award for the Fourth Time

Academy of the Holy Angels Recognized for Improving Female Representation in Computer Science

The Academy of the Holy Angels has once again been honored with the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award, marking the fourth time the school has received this prestigious recognition. This award celebrates AHA’s continued commitment to increasing female representation in Computer Science A and fostering equity in STEM education.

AHA is one of only 237 schools nationwide to receive the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for the school year. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone and extend our congratulations to our dedicated teachers and talented students,” said AHA Upper School Principal Jean Miller. “At Holy Angels, we create an environment where girls feel empowered to excel in STEM fields. Whether in coding classes, AP science and math courses, robotics, or our STEM labs, our students consistently demonstrate their potential to lead in traditionally male-dominated disciplines. This recognition underscores our commitment to gender equity in education and reflects the incredible work being done at AHA.”

Since first receiving this award in 2019-2020, AHA has expanded its nationally recognized curriculum. AHA prepares young women to tackle society’s most pressing challenges, equipping them with the confidence and skills necessary to thrive in STEM careers. “Computer science is the source code of our economy and much of the career landscape,” said Trevor Packer, head of the AP Program. “It’s inspiring to see schools like AHA leading the charge to welcome more young women into this vital field.”

Research underscores the importance of early exposure to computer science for closing the gender gap in STEM fields. Female students who take AP Computer Science are more likely to pursue computer science majors in college. Additionally, participation in AP Computer Science courses serves as a stepping stone to advanced STEM coursework.

Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in computer science. They account for just 26% of AP CSA participants and 34% of AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) students. Providing access to these courses is critical for increasing diversity in the tech industry, where women represent only 26.9% of workers in computer and mathematical occupations.

In 2024, participation in AP CSA reached new heights:

• 98,136 students took the exam—a 60% increase since 2017.
• 25,811 female students participated—an 81% increase since 2017.

By fostering gender equity in computer science, AHA is paving the way for its students to access high-paying, in-demand jobs and become leaders in innovation and creativity. AHA’s ongoing commitment to expanding opportunities in STEM education serves as a model for schools across the nation, proving that when young women are given the tools to succeed, they exceed expectations.

Statistics and research courtesy of The College Board.