Annual Report
Download ReportUnleashing Girls' STEM Power
Letter from the CEO
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Thirteen years ago, STEM From
Dance was just a vision—a daring belief that girls of color could see
themselves as leaders in STEM if given the right space to explore,
create, and dream.
Today, that vision is a reality.
We’re
not just growing—we’re transforming what’s possible. Our new Clubs and
Pop Up programs aren’t just expansions—they’re reinventions, meeting
girls where they are and igniting their journeys through the power of
dance and technology.
This year brought recognition that still
takes my breath away: being named a CNN Hero, speaking at the White
House, and winning MIT's prestigious award.
But what truly energizes me is how we're using this momentum.
We’re
not just serving girls in STEM—we’re equipping educators and
institutions nationwide with our proven approach, creating a ripple
effect that will transform the STEM landscape for generations.
As
unprecedented funding opens new doors, we remain focused on what
matters most: ensuring that every girl who steps into our programs walks
away knowing that she belongs in STEM, that her ideas matter, and that
she has the power to create something extraordinary.
The future is hers to shape—and we’re just getting started.
Onward with joy and purpose,
A Message from Our New Board Chair
A new chapter begins at STEM From Dance with Nakia James-Jenkins as our Board Chair—a powerhouse leader with a passion for people, purpose, and possibility. With over two decades in HR, equity, and operations, she is a Partner at On-Ramps, driving change and impact for mission-driven organizations. With Nakia at the helm, our vision is bolder, our impact deeper, and our future brighter than ever.
In my first year as Board Chair, I’ve been inspired by the passion and impact of STEM From Dance. This organization is reshaping what’s possible for girls of color in STEM, creating spaces where they feel seen, heard, and empowered. With national recognition and growing momentum, our impact is stronger than ever. I’m honored to help guide this next chapter and excited for what we’ll achieve together."
As a board member since 2020, I am honored to support an organization that continues to push boundaries, expanding its reach to inspire more girls. With deeper insights into our curriculum, we’re enhancing how students engage with STEM and creativity. From launching new initiatives to earning recognition as a CNN Hero, our momentum fuels a powerful mission: empowering the next generation of diverse innovators through movement and technology."
As one of only five women in my college’s applied mechanics program, I know the challenges young women face in STEM. Witnessing STEM From Dance's growth last year has been truly inspiring—empowering more girls with the confidence, skills, and opportunities to thrive."
2024 was a very successful year for STEM From Dance. We had programming in eight different cities, four of them new. The results from our 2024 annual report reflect the many contributions, dedication and commitment from our administrators and teachers, alongside their desire to deliver strong STEM education to young girls. The results give us great confidence in our future and show that our strategy is working."
Our Programs
Every girl deserves to discover her power in STEM, whether she dreams of it today or hasn't yet imagined the possibilities. Through groundbreaking programs like our new Pop Ups and Clubs, we're making our transformative curriculum accessible to more girls nationwide. Now, every Black and Brown girl can discover her STEM potential through dance—whether for a day, a season, or a life-changing journey. Our expanded program ecosystem meets girls wherever they are, igniting confidence and creating lasting pathways to STEM success.
Pop Ups
One-day experiences designed to spark interest in STEM topics, boost confidence, and encourage deeper engagement. Perfect for girls curious about STEM—just one day can transform their perspective and open doors to endless possibilities.
Clubs
Our newest innovation: educator-led programs that bring STEM and dance to any school or community center nationwide. We equip passionate educators with our proven curriculum and training—all at no cost—empowering them to inspire the next generation.
Camps
A transformative three-week intensive where girls dive deep into STEM concepts through dance. In this immersive experience, participants build technical skills, develop lasting confidence, and join a powerful community of future innovators.
College & Career
A bridge to STEM success, providing focused guidance and support for girls ready to transform their passion into a profession. We help navigate the path from interest to action—turning STEM dreams into degree plans and career launches.
SFD Connect
Our digital home for the STEM From Dance community. This vibrant online platform keeps girls connected, engaged, and supported between programs—offering async learning, mentorship, and a safe space to belong and grow.
Our Ecosystem
How It Grows
A Revolution in STEM
Through strategic partnerships with schools and
community organizations, we're revolutionizing how girls of color
experience STEM education. Our expert instructors don't just teach—they
ignite sparks that illuminate new possibilities. By training educators
and empowering institutions with our innovative curriculum, we're
creating sustainable change that ripples through entire communities.
When
schools adopt our program, they join a movement that transforms how
girls see themselves in STEM. Our model multiplies impact: we train the
trainers, equip the institutions, and create the conditions where girls
of color can thrive. Every partner becomes a catalyst, every educator
becomes an agent of change, and every program creates a new ecosystem
where tech dreams take flight.
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum ignites technological curiosity through the universal language of dance. Each module fuses cutting-edge STEM concepts with vibrant dance traditions, creating an electrifying learning experience that transforms how girls see their place in the tech world.
Afrobeats & AI
Step into the future where artificial intelligence meets artistic expression. Students master AI concepts while exploring the infectious rhythms of Afrobeats. They evolve from understanding AI's role in music creation to producing their own AI-enhanced tracks, culminating in choreographed performances that showcase their command of both technology and movement.
Reggaeton, Algorithms & Virality
Explore the science behind social media while moving to Latin beats. Students dissect viral content algorithms, analyze data privacy, and harness the power of digital engagement—all through the lens of Reggaeton's infectious rhythms. They transform from content consumers to creators, producing TikTok-ready performances that demonstrate their grasp of both digital strategy and cultural expression.
Hoop Dancing & Physics of Percussion
Experience the profound connection between traditional art forms and modern science. Students unlock the physics behind hula hooping and sound waves while honoring Native American Hoop Dancing traditions. They engineer their own instruments and craft routines that demonstrate how ancient wisdom and contemporary physics create something entirely new.
Break Dance Machine
Push the boundaries where artificial intelligence meets street dance culture. Students build machine learning models that recognize breaking moves, bridging the gap between computational thinking and physical expression. The module culminates in an innovative "machine battle" where technology judges their breaking skills in real-time.
Carbon Footstep
Transform environmental awareness into powerful artistic statements through Step dance. Students calculate their carbon footprints while mastering the percussive art of stepping, creating performances that translate environmental data into rhythmic protest. Their routines become physical manifestations of their commitment to sustainability, proving that data can drive both consciousness and creativity.
A Day at Camp
Meet Ja'Nai
Ja’Nai steps into Camp, heart racing with excitement—and a little uncertainty. She’s all about dance, not circuits or code. STEM? Not really her thing. But something about this place feels different. She’s in the Perseverance cohort, and today is her first day. She doesn’t know it yet, but by the end of Camp, she’ll be creating something she never imagined.
Part 1
Community Time
Ja’Nai gathers with her cohort, nerves easing. Today’s focus: courage. Through laughs and deep conversations, she starts to see—this isn’t just Camp. It’s a sisterhood in the making.
Part 2
STEM Lab
In the STEM Lab, Ja'Nai's eyes light up as she discovers how AI can compose beats. Her fingers dance across the keyboard, blending technology with rhythm – suddenly, STEM doesn't feel so foreign anymore.
Part 3
Dance Lab
The studio pulses with energy as Ja'Nai masters each move, then crafts her own choreography. With every sequence she creates, her confidence soars – here, she's not just learning dance, she's becoming a leader.
Part 4
Lunch
Laughter echoes through the cafeteria as Ja'Nai and her cohort recharge. Between bites, they swap stories and dreams, transforming lunch into a vibrant space where friendships take shape.
Part 5
Expert Sessions
Ja’Nai listens, captivated—a Black woman engineer shares her journey. STEM suddenly feels real, possible. With each story, she starts to see it: a future where she belongs in tech, too.
Part 6
Workshops
Ja'Nai's cohort, Perseverance, transforms ideas into innovation. As they merge their new AI music compositions with bold choreography, their showcase piece evolves from dream to reality.
Part 7
Wrap Up
As the day winds down, Ja'Nai's world has expanded beyond measure. Once uncertain about STEM, she now stands taller – a future innovator ready to revolutionize both technology and dance. Tomorrow brings new possibilities.
Transformative Results
The data tells a powerful story of transformation. STEM From Dance is unleashing the fierce power of girls of color to shatter every barrier and completely redefine what STEM looks like, how it works, and who it's for. The results speak for themselves.
Belonging & Joy
JOY
Participants experienced deep joy throughout STEM From Dance, often citing excitement in learning new STEM concepts and the camaraderie built through dance. Many expressed surprise at how much they enjoyed STEM, especially when integrated with movement, and described the program as a space filled with encouragement, fun, and newfound confidence in their abilities.
BELONGING
The program fostered a strong sense of belonging, with girls highlighting the supportive, judgment-free environment. Many girls built friendships, felt seen and valued, and connected with facilitators. Caregivers and facilitators noted that girls grew in self-confidence, particularly as young women of color in STEM spaces, reinforcing their sense of place and worth in these fields.
“I loved meeting new people and connecting with girls like me. We shared so many great moments, and I finally felt like I belonged in a STEM space.”
– Syracuse Participant“STEM From Dance is a no-judgment place where instead of being judged, people help you improve. It helped me gain confidence and feel comfortable expressing myself.”
– New York City Participant“I loved creating dances with the other girls. We’d get excited over a new move that fit perfectly with the music. It was so much fun.”
– Cambridge Participant“My daughter was so excited about camp, she couldn’t sleep at night. She came home every day full of energy, eager to share what she learned. She felt safe, encouraged, and proud of what she accomplished.”
– Syracuse Caregiver“My child made real friends and felt seen. She came home excited every day, eager to go back and learn more.”
– New York City Caregiver“The friendships, the encouragement, and the joy I felt every day made this experience unforgettable. I walked in feeling nervous and left feeling like I had a community that truly supports me.”
– Los Angeles ParticipantSkill-Building
SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING (SEL) SKILLS
Girls developed key SEL skills like collaboration, problem-solving, and perseverance. They learned to listen to different perspectives, resolve conflicts, and work as a team to create dances and STEM projects. Girls overcame personal and technical challenges, demonstrating growth in resilience, leadership, and the ability to express themselves with confidence.
GROWTH MINDSET
Many youth embraced a growth mindset, learning to push past self-doubt and persist through challenges in STEM and dance. They discovered that mistakes were opportunities for learning and expressed increased confidence in their ability to improve in STEM. Caregivers observed that their children were more willing to try new things and take on difficult tasks.
“I learned that I am capable of overcoming challenges. When I got stuck coding, I kept trying and didn’t give up. That made me really proud.”
- Memphis Participant“I learned that I can step outside my comfort zone and try new things without fear. I just have to believe in myself.”
- New York City Participant“At first, I was afraid to fail, but I learned that mistakes help you grow. Now I feel ready to take on new challenges.”
- Miami Participant“At first, I struggled with confidence, but STEM From Dance pushed me to speak up and share my ideas. Now I know that my thoughts and contributions matter, whether in STEM or anywhere else in life.”
- New York City Participant“I learned that I can try new things and not be afraid of making mistakes. I just have to keep going and keep learning.”
- Houston Participant“I used to give up easily, but now I know that if I keep trying, I’ll get better. Coding was hard at first, but I stuck with it, and now I love it. I learned to believe in myself.”
- Chicago ParticipantSTEM Engagement
STEM INTEREST
The program successfully ignited participants’ interest in STEM, with many discovering a newfound appreciation for coding and technology. A majority of girls reported wanting to continue learning STEM, and some even planned to teach coding to family and friends. Many participants expanded their view of what STEM could be, recognizing its connection to their passions and feeling more empowered to explore STEM opportunities in the future.
SOCIAL CAPITAL
STEM From Dance helped participants build social capital by connecting them with role models, mentors, and a supportive peer network. Many girls felt empowered by meeting women in STEM and seeing themselves reflected in these careers. Some were inspired to challenge stereotypes and increase representation in STEM fields, while others gained confidence in seeking out future opportunities.
“My daughter now sees herself as someone who belongs in STEM. She’s excited to take STEM classes and try new things.”
- Syracuse Caregiver“I want to keep learning about STEM and even teach my younger siblings. It’s way more fun than I expected!”
- Chicago Participant“I never thought STEM was for me, but this program changed my mind. Now I want to keep learning and exploring it.”
- Houston Participant“I learned that STEM isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. Now, I want to take more classes, explore new opportunities, and help other girls see how fun STEM can be.”
- Chicago Participant“My daughter was never interested in STEM before, but now she wants to keep learning. She sees STEM in a new light, and I love that this program helped her discover that passion.”
- Los Angeles Caregiver“Before this program, I never thought I would like STEM. Now, I see how it connects to things I love, and I want to explore it more. Coding and dance together made me realize STEM is creative too.”
- Miami ParticipantFrom Uncertainty to Possibility: Makeda's Journey
When Makeda joined STEM From Dance during the summer before her senior year of high school, she was lost in a fog of uncertainty. "I was telling my friends, 'I don't know what makes me passionate,'" she recalls. As she prepared college applications, this ambitious young woman found herself directionless, applying to 22 different programs across wildly different disciplines—from theater to pre-med to African-American studies—hoping something would stick.
Join Our Community
Be part of a movement transforming STEM's future. Join our vibrant community of changemakers, discover breakthroughs, and help us empower the next generation of innovators. Connect with us today.
CNN Heroes
Each year, CNN Heroes honors changemakers redefining what’s possible. In 2024, our founder, Yamilee, was named a CNN Hero—then a Top 5 honoree—her impact taking center stage for the world to see.
A Global Spotlight
Millions watched as Yamilée’s story unfolded—a testament to the power of STEM and dance to transform lives and open doors for the next generation.
Honored Among Heroes
Standing among the world’s most inspiring changemakers, Yamilée shared her vision onstage with Anderson Cooper and Laura Coates, proving that dreams can become movements.
Introduced by Misty Copeland
Legendary ballerina Misty Copeland took the stage to honor Yamilée, celebrating her as a force for change—breaking barriers and empowering girls to own their brilliance in STEM.
More Headlines
STEM From Dance Announces Funding from Google.org to Advance AI Literacy Among Girls of Color
Yamilée Toussaint Takes Center Stage at White House STEM Initiative
Yamilée Toussaint Honored with MIT's MLK Leadership Award
Our Unwavering Commitment
At our core lies a bold vision: transforming STEM through the creative power of dance. These founding principles drive our mission to revolutionize who leads innovation.
Our Mission
STEM From Dance empowers girls of color with the skills, experiences, and confidence to pursue careers in STEM — all through the power of dance.
Our Work
From spark-inspiring Pop-Ups to immersive Camps and career-launching initiatives, we forge partnerships nationwide—guiding girls of color from first exposure to future leadership.
Our Theory of Change
By combining dance's creative power with STEM's innovation potential, we don't just build skills—we transform mindsets. Through our multi-layered approach, girls develop the confidence, capabilities, and connections to become tomorrow's STEM pioneers.
Reiterating Our Purpose
At STEM From Dance, we fuse the power of dance with the possibilities of STEM—helping girls of color build confidence, skills, and a vision for their future in tech.
What Happens
At STEM From Dance, we fuse the power of dance with the possibilities of STEM—helping girls of color build confidence, skills, and a vision for their future in tech.
- Engage in hands-on STEM learning
- Express creativity through dance and technology
- Build teamwork and leadership skills
What We Teach
Our programs blend technical skills with artistic expression, giving girls a foundation in both STEM and dance.
- Creativity and STEM
- Choreography, storytelling, and performance
- Problem-solving and innovation
Our Approach in Action
Dynamic, immersive, and community-driven, our programs provide real-world experiences that prepare girls to lead in STEM.
- Year-round programs
- Strong sisterhood that uplifts and empowers
- Performances where STEM meets the stage
2024 Financials
Every dollar fuels our mission—expanding opportunities for girls of color in STEM. Our financials reflect a strong foundation and the momentum to grow our impact even further.
Revenue Summary
| Total Revenues for the Year Ended June 30, 2024 | Total |
|---|---|
| Corporate contributions | $1,223,500 |
| Foundation contributions | $3,719,396 |
| Individual contribution | $158,284 |
| Government grants | $98,097 |
| Program services fees | $114,387 |
| TOTAL REVENUES | $5,313,664 |
Note: Due to a new accounting rule implemented this year, revenue is reported differently, impacting year-over-year financial comparisons.
Expenses Summary
| Total Expenses for the Year Ended June 30, 2024 | Total |
|---|---|
| Program services | $1,717,884 |
| Management and general | $340,679 |
| Fundraising | $419,964 |
| TOTAL EXPENSES | $2,478,527 |
| Change in Net Assets | $2,835,137 |
| Net Assets, Beginning | $1,208,622 |
| Net Assets, Ending | $4,043,759 |
Supporters
We collaborate with institutions and individuals who invest in our mission and are dedicated to steering girls of color toward fulfilling STEM careers. Their generous support is instrumental in providing girls with the tools they need to become tomorrow’s innovators. Our institutional donors are listed below.
- Akamai Foundation
- Alfred P. Sloan Foundation
- Altman Foundation
- Booth Ferris Foundation
- Brooklyn Org
- Callon Family Fund
- Capital One
- Chloé
- Central New York Community Foundation
- Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation
- ELMA Philanthropies
- Every Page Foundation
- Find Your Light Foundation
- Google.org
- Gucci
- Harman Family Foundation
- Hornblower, Operator of NYC Ferry
- Ichigo Foundation
- L’Oreal Foundation
- Laureus Foundation USA
- Lawrence Foundation
- Marshall Frankel Foundation
- MIT Solve
- National Science Foundation
- New York State Council of the Arts
- New York Urban League
- New York City Department of Cultural Affairs
- New York City Racial Equity Endowment
- Pierre and Tana Matisse Foundation
- Pinkerton Foundation
- Rita Allen Foundation
- Simons Foundation
- Spark Youth
- STEM Next Opportunity Fund
- William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust
Give with Confidence
Our top nonprofit transparency ratings reflect our dedication to
accountability and efficient mission-driven impact. We have earned
Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency and a Four-Star rating from
Charity Navigator with a score of 94%.
Supporters can give knowing their contributions will be managed responsibly to create meaningful change.
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Your generous contribution of any amount empowers girls of color to become the next generation of STEM leaders.
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