Gender Chip Project

The inaugural Director's Dialogue on Art and Social Change features the world premiere of The Gender Chip Project. The Wexner Center-commissioned film documents the barrier-breaking efforts of five extraordinary female students from Ohio State preparing for careers in science and technology.

Filmmaker Helen De Michiel introduces the screening. Stay after the film for a panel discussion. What are some of the challenges that women face when entering the traditionally male-dominated fields of science, technology, mathematics, and engineering? What structures are in place to ensure that women and other underrepresented groups are given a fair chance to succeed in these areas? Commissioned by the Wexner Center in 1997 as one of four Class of 2001 media arts residency projects, Helen De Michiel's documentary The Gender Chip Project explores these questions through the stories of five extraordinary young women at Ohio State. The film follows them over the course of four years as they try to succeed in their respective fields while navigating the always-complicated life of a college student. (video, 54 mins.)

The panel discussion following the film features some of the young women who participated in The Gender Chip Project. They'll talk about their experiences and about what they're doing today. Moderated by Lisa M. Chambers, State Director of TECH CORPS Ohio, the panel offers a chance for a candid discussion about the challenges of college life, forging a career, and balancing personal and professional goals.

The morning panel is open to the public, but high school students and school groups are particularly encouraged to attend. Please reserve space for your school group in advance by e-mailing edweb@wexarts.org or calling (614) 292-6493.

Other groups planning to attend either session, please call the Patron Services Desk at (614) 292-3535.