Balancing the Equation highlights critical reasons to advance women and girls in the sciences and calls for systemic change, beginning in kindergarten and continuing throughout women’s careers. It provides a blueprint for creating and maintaining gender equity in science, engineering and technology. The report * Chapters on K-12, undergraduate and graduate education, and business and industry point to moments in the education and career cycles when intervention can make a difference. * Interviews with key leaders responsible for enlarging the scope of science. * Special Reports on Affirmative Action, funding, global comparisons, a critique of the Human Genome Project, and more. * An extensive Resource Guide that highlights best practices that can be replicated to promote women’s and girls’ success in the sciences, including the work of NCRW member centers. The report Balancing the equation for women and girls requires strong leadership, changes in cultural values and practices, and systemic reform of institutions.