Spencer Student Earns Technology Recognition

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(Columbus, GA)-A William Henry Spencer High senior wins the 2012 National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) Award for Aspirations in Computing. Rachel Cotterell earned the award, sponsored by Bank of America and the NCWIT, which recognizes young high school women for their computing-related achievements and interests as part of an effort to encourage more young women to choose careers in technology.

Rachel first became interested in computer science her freshman year and decided to apply to attend Spencer High School, the Academy of Computer Science and Electronic Game Design. She earned first place in the Techno Expo competition, third place in the Georgia Student Media Festival, and second place in the international gaming competition Interservice/Industry Training Simulation and Education Conference (I/ITSEC). The senior is especially proud of her winning project design, which helps students learn vocabulary for the reading and vocabulary sections of the SAT. She plans to study computer programming in college and would like to become a programmer for a Fortune 500 company.

"The ability and commitment of our students is evident by this prestigious award," said proud principal Reginald Griffin.

A total of 35 award-winners were selected from high schools across the country for their outstanding aptitude and interest in information technology and computing, solid leadership ability, good academic history, and plans for post-secondary education.

Each award-winner receives:

» $500 cash

» a laptop computer, provided by Bank of America

» a trip, including airfare for nonlocal winners, some meals, & lodging, all provided by Bank of America, for each awardee and one accompanying parent or legal guardian, to attend the Bank of America Technology Showcase and Awards Ceremony held in Charlotte, North Carolina

» an engraved award for both the student and the student's school

"Encouraging young women's interest in technology careers is critical: our workforce needs their creativity and their innovation," said Lucy Sanders, CEO and Co-founder of NCWIT.

NCWIT is the National Center for Women & Information Technology, a coalition of over 300 prominent corporations, academic institutions, government agencies, and nonprofits working to increase women's participation in IT. NCWIT's work spans K-12 and higher education through industry and academic careers.

For more information, access www.ncwit.org, or contact Spencer High School, 706-683-8701.

(SOURCE: MUSCOGEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT)