The 2024-2025 school year marks the long-awaited return of robotics at Loretto Academy by welcoming AngelBots Gold.
The formation began junior, Madhi Arevalo, who came from a strong STEM background as a previous member of Devoly, one of the top robotics teams in Chihuahua, Mexico.
She participated in FIRST World Championships, where she learned not only technical skills but also the power of networking, teamwork, and the global impact of STEM.
Madhi said, “[Transferring to Loretto] I wanted to create a space where young women could gain confidence, develop leadership skills, and explore STEM in an environment that empowers them.
What better way to do that than by forming an all-girls team where we can support each other and prove that we belong in STEM?”
As a result, Madhi took her ideas to Ms. Cobb, Loretto Academy’s president, and Ms. Tovar, the principal, to find a way to bring back robotics.
Ms. Salcido, high school chemistry and biology teacher, was generously asked to take on the role as sponsor and work alongside the girls; she accepted.
Ms. Salcido graduated from the University of Texas at El Paso with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences and a master’s degree in neuroscience.
During her time at college, she spent two years in the STEM field working in the robotics field while on a grant.
Together, Ms. Salcido and Madhi worked in the fall to form a base team that would promote the project.
Students were selected based on their merit, skills, and experiences by a personal invitation from Ms. Tovar, totaling 12 current members.
Their team name originates from the previous Loretto Academy robotics team, AngelBots, and adding the word Gold.
AngelBots Gold is committed to:
- Promoting STEM and FIRST Robotics to inspire young minds to innovate and dream big.
- Competing with energy and enthusiasm, giving our best effort every step of the way.
- Learning, programming, building, and growing together as a team.
- Connecting with professionals who will guide us toward our dreams.
Team leader Madhi said, “The best part is the connections, making friends, learning from others, and being part of a global community that supports and uplifts each other.
I love seeing people grow, not just in their STEM skills but in public speaking, teamwork, and leadership.”
The team has competed in four competitions this robotics season, ranging from high school competitions to the ultimate UTEP championship.
AngelBots Gold fosters an environment where creative expression is encouraged and highlights young women in the STEM field.
The team’s future goals are to participate within the community to promote themselves and possible summer programs at school.
