The Girls Engaged in Mathematics and Science program for middle-school girls has been active in the local community since 1994 through a partnership of the Champaign Community Unit School District and the National Center for Supercomputing Applications. GEMS was created as a way to encourage girls to consider mathematics- and science-oriented careers, to gain confidence in doing math and science. and to take advanced-level mathematics and science courses in high school. The GEMS program has provided participants with visits to research laboratories. guest speakers, afterschool activities, a network of female role models, and opportunities to work side-by-side with a mentor in laboratories across the community.