Their promise as scientific leaders is reflected not only by the quality of their research and their unquestionable ability. But their potential is also written in the stories of the finalists who have stood in their shoes over the last 84 years.

This year, Ìýfinalists heard from one such STS alum, Marcian “Tedâ€� Hoff (STS 1954), Ìýthe twelfth employee at Intel and inventor of the microprocessor. ÌýHe is a member of the National Inventors Hall of Fame and a recipient of the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.

Ted sat down with the finalists for a fireside chat, where he shared his journey and answered finalists’ questions. Below are some excerpts from the conversation.

When you began at Intel, what problem were you trying to solve that led to the invention of the microprocessor?

“When I first got involved with that project, we had agreed to build a set of custom chips for a calculator company. Three engineers came from Japan with a design they wanted built, and the more I looked at it, the more concerned I became. They had separate control chips for the keyboard, display, printer, memory and arithmetic.

“The idea I came up with was that instead of building all these different chips, we could make a general-purpose processor and put the complexity into memory, instead of wiring it into the chip itself. You can write the code for that memory on a piece of paper, and then there’s a standard way of putting it into the memory, so you don’t need a new chip layout every time.

“That meant the same hardware could be used for many different applications. What started as a solution to designing the calculator turned out to have many other uses. One thing I learned is that ideas often come from things you did earlier that didn’t seem connected at the time. Some of these disconnected experiences can turn out to be very useful in the long run.�

As someone who laid the foundation for modern computing, what questions and considerations do you think are most urgent as we advance AI systems today?

“We’re building more powerful processors, smarter processors, where the artificial intelligence can get well beyond the typical human intelligence. An important question becomes, ‘What is the role of the human in that society?’

“I think one of the things future generations really have to think about is not just what we can do, but the impact of what we do. There are many problems in the world, and it isn’t always obvious what the best solution is. You have to be careful about putting technology into use before it’s ready. It may be a great development eventually, but when something is introduced before all the details are worked out, that can be hazardous.

“When I went to engineering school, Rensselaer, was an all-male school. I think the year I graduated, there were only two women in the entire school body,� Ted said. “Well, our youngest granddaughter is now at Cal Poly, studying mechanical engineering.�

He pointed to that contrast with today, where far more women are entering and leading in 91µ¼º½. For Ted, that shift underscores the importance of “broadening the view,â€� and bringing more perspectives to not just what we build, but how we think about its impact.

How did it feel to join Intel when it was still a very young company, and what advice do you have for navigating risk or the unfamiliar?

“When I joined Intel, there was definitely some risk. I was at Stanford at the time in what looked like a very secure position, supported by government research contracts, and things seemed to be going well. Leaving that to go to a brand-new company was not an obvious decision. Sometimes you have to make your best guess and accept that there are no guarantees.

“Interestingly, not long after I left, there were protests at Stanford about government-supported research, and the university decided to move a lot of that work off campus. If I had stayed, I might have been looking for a job anyway.

“That was eye-opening. Things that seem secure may not be, and things that seem risky can work out very well. My advice is to make the best decision you can with the information you have, and don’t be afraid of something simply because it’s new or uncertain. That’s often where the most interesting opportunities are.�

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is an obesity medicine physician-scientist, educator and policymaker at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Working at the intersection of medicine, public health, policy and health disparities, she is helping to transform how obesity is understood, treated and addressed at a systemic level.

Her work is vital, as few areas of medicine are as shaped by misunderstanding and stigma as obesity. For Fatima, challenging those misconceptions and the inequities behind them became a mission and a calling. “I was first drawn to medicine through an early fascination with science and the human body,� she explains. “ But I found my true calling when I recognized how profoundly social factors and health inequities shape outcomes, particularly for people living with obesity.�

What is often perceived as an individual medical condition, she emphasizes, is deeply intertwined with access to care, socioeconomic factors and bias in clinical settings and public policy. By reframing obesity as a complex, chronic disease rather than a moral failing, Fatima challenges both the medical community and the public to adopt a more evidence-based and compassionate understanding.

“What continues to excite me today is the opportunity to combine clinical care, research, education and advocacy to challenge outdated narratives and improve health for populations that have long been marginalized,� she says. This integrated approach allows her not only to treat patients, but also to shape policy conversations and train the next generation of clinicians and scientists.

Mentorship has been central to her journey. Fatima speaks with gratitude about those who modeled “excellence paired with humility and service,� particularly mentors who “created opportunities for me when I could not yet see them for myself.� She is also “deeply inspired by Black physicians and scientists who persisted and innovated despite systemic barriers, paving the way for future generations.� Their resilience and brilliance, she notes, are a source of pride and a reminder of the responsibility to widen the path for others.

Her message to students considering careers in 91µ¼º½ is equally direct. “Stay curious and do not be afraid to take up space,â€� she advises. “91µ¼º½ careers are rarely linear, and your unique background, questions and lived experiences are assets, not obstacles.â€� She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship: “Seek mentors, ask for help early and remember that your voice and perspective are needed in shaping the future of science.â€�

For Fatima, Black History Month is not confined to acknowledgement alone. “Black History Month is both a time of reflection and a call to action,� she says. “It is an opportunity to honor the contributions, resilience and brilliance of Black individuals while recommitting ourselves to advancing equity, representation and justice in our institutions every day of the year.�

By challenging stigmas and reshaping how obesity is treated, Fatima is helping to redefine what equitable medicine looks like. We’re proud to celebrate her efforts, which are building a scientific community that better serves everyone.

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The breadth of these stellar scholars’ origins is matched only by their wide-ranging interests. Beyond their 91µ¼º½ achievements, their pursuits range from the singularly exceptional to the slightly esoteric. The 2026 scholars include:

• A nationally ranked ballroom dancer
• A professional voice actor
• An ornithological journal editor who describes himself as “very much a bird personâ€�
• A competitive typist (whose personal record is 208 words per minute)
• A video game designer who has developed over 10 indie games
• A Team USA Junior Olympic fencer
• An opera singer who has performed at Carnegie Hall
• A chess player who likes to play blindfolded
• An entrepreneur who started a clay jewelry business
• The youngest internationally certified tennis coach

Despite these diverse talents, some common threads unite these multitalented scholars. The charts below show a few of their collective interests.

Of 19 different categories, cellular and molecular biology leads the way, accounting for 12% of scholars’ projects.

Have hypothesis, will travel (or stay home): Scholars conducted their research in a variety of different environments.

¡Qué impresionante! A notably multilingual bunch, the scholars speak 42 different languages, with Spanish leading the way!

Particularly service-oriented, volunteer work is the scholars’ most popular extracurricular activity.

Stay tuned for the Regeneron STS top 40 finalists announcement on January 21 at noon E.T.!

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recognize 19 Society alumni across 11 categories, from AI to Venture Capital. Though early in their careers, these honorees are already founding companies, leading teams and inventing the world of tomorrow. We are proud to celebrate these changemakers and excited to follow their promising careers.

Explore the full list of Society alumni honorees and learn more about each alum by following the links below.

AI

(STS 2022), co-founder of Delve

Selin co-founded Delve with Karun Kaushik. The company began as an AI-based medical scribe and has since evolved into a tool that automates “compliance busywork� for companies.

(ISEF 2017), co-founder of Mintlify

Along with Han Wang, Hahnbee co-founded Mintlify, a platform that helps more than 10,000 companies create and maintain AI-native documentation, including guides, API references and knowledge bases.

(ISEF 2018–19), co-founder of Accordance

Motivated by the growing problem of staffing shortages in accounting (75% of U.S. accountants will retire within the decade), David co-founded Accordance with Finsam Samson to help companies solve complex tax and accounting problems with the use of AI.

(STS 2015, ISEF 2014–15), co-founder of Decagon

Jesse and co-founder Ashwin Sreenivas started Decagon together, which now boasts a $1.5 billion valuation. Decagon builds AI customer service agents to handle a wide range of tasks for an equally wide range of companies.

Energy and Green Tech

(ISEF 2016), co-founder of Maritime Fusion

With co-founder Justin Cohen, Jason started Maritime Fusion, which builds compact fusion reactors to provide emissions-free propulsion systems for commercial and defense ships.

Finance

(ISEF 2014), co-founder of Kobalt Labs

Kalyani and Ashi Agrawal co-founded Kobalt Labs, which uses AI to bring compliance into the machine learning age, helping banks complete important and time-consuming tasks like vetting business partners and responding to security breaches.

Healthcare

(STS 2014, ISEF 2014), general surgery resident physician at Massachusetts General Hospital

Sara is a general surgery resident physician whose research looks at the collective impact of health equity and economics, with the aim of improving health outcomes on a systemic level.

Manufacturing and Industry

(ISEF 2015), founder of NextSet Materials

Yasmeen founded NextSet Materials to develop a recyclable thermoset plastic for advanced manufacturing, aiming to replace materials that contribute more than 65 metric tons of landfill waste each year.Ìý

Media

(BCM 2017), writer at The New York Times

Evan Gorelick is one of the youngest staff writers at The New York Times, where he covers politics, technology, trade and public policy. He writes for The Morning, a newsletter read by more than 16 million subscribers and 5 million unique readers daily.

Science

(ISEF 2022), co-founder of Madlab

With Vienna Sparks, Skye co-founded MadLab, where he has developed affordable and easy-to-use test strips that can detect five drugs that are frequently added to people’s drinks or other substances.

(STS 2014 scholar), research scientist at Biohub

Claire is a biomedical engineer who has developed multiple tools to help scientists better understand inflammation. Her work has been published in more than 20 peer-reviewed articles.

(STS 2014 scholar), postdoctoral researcher at Harvard Medical School

Duy identified genes that cause congenital hydrocephalus, the most common reason for brain surgery in children. His work has led to non-invasive therapies that are currently in clinical trials.

(ISEF 2014), postdoctoral researcher at Genentech

As a Ph.D. student, Sevahn developed a simple urine test that can analyze urinary and reproductive tract issues in lieu of a biopsy. Her current research examines RNA biology with a goal of creating new medical tools and treatments.

Social Media

(BCM 2015), founder of NextGen Accessibility Initiative

A disability and accessibility advocate, Alexandra founded NextGen to help Gen Z organizations make their social media content more accessible. The initiative has helped reach over 200,000 young people in 119 countries.

Sports

(ISEF 2016), co-founder of Trainwell

Matt and Gabe Madonna are the co-founders of Trainwell, a tech-enabled personal training company with an app that guides users through customized programs. The company’s trainers receive salaries, health benefits and retirement benefits, notable in an industry that typically employs trainers as independent contractors.

Transportation and Aerospace

(BCM 2011), co-founder of Mach9

Michael and his three co-founders started Mach9 in 2021. Since then, the company has developed geospatial CAD software that uses AI to create precise maps that support the work of surveyors, engineers and infrastructure owners.

(ISEF 2015–16, BCM 2013), co-founder of Distributed Spectrum

Alex, Ben Harpe and Isaac Struhl are the co-founders behind Distributed Spectrum, which works with the U.S. armed forces to develop an array of applications with the aim of increasing service members’ safety and effectiveness.

Venture Capital

(ISEF 2013–14), founder and managing partner at Anansi Capital

With more than a decade of experience in venture capital, Vinay founded Anansi Capital in January 2025. The firm invests in small companies and helps them integrate AI into their business models.

(STS 2016), partner at Greylock

Sophia helps lead Greylock Edge, the firm’s three-month accelerator program, and Greylock Scout, which invites top angel investors to source, support and invest in early-stage startups on the firm’s behalf.

Want to learn more about our remarkable alumni? Explore our full Notable Alumni page to see how Society alumni are shaping the world.

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Michelle Benson is a retired letter carrier from Minneapolis, Minnesota, who delivered the mail for the U.S. Postal Service for 32 years. Before hanging up her mailbag for the last time in 2012, Michelle encountered Science News, not as a reader, but as a part of her daily route. This unique introduction to what would become one of her favorite publications has fostered a lasting commitment to science.

“When I was sorting the mail every morning, there were dozens of magazines coming through,â€� said Michelle. “Different magazines jumped out at me and Science News was one of them.ÌýI don’t remember the first time I noticed Science News, but I’ve been subscribing for over three decades.â€�

One of the first stories to catch her eye was about dinosaurs, one of her favorite subjects. But she has accumulated no shortage of other favorite articles throughout the years.

She recalled being amazed and asking herself, “Where else can you learn that , that lived over a million years ago, Marie Antoinette’s , or that there are in a pound of fat, many more than in bone marrow?�

Michelle credits her father, Peter Benson, who first encouraged her to pursue a career with the USPS, with making education a family priority. That influence helped spur her lifelong curiosity about the natural world, as well as her belief in the power of science and scientific innovation.

“I believe that if you value something, you should invest in it,� she said. “That is why I subscribe to Science News magazine. I believe that science will save this planet and now that we have artificial intelligence, anything is possible. I believe in supporting anyone that has the passion to make this world healthier and more connected.�

Her support goes beyond words. In addition to subscribing to Science News, Michelle has supported the Society’s work as a member and through generous over the past decade. Support from people like Michelle makes the Society’s mission possible, ensuring that every young person can strive to become an engineer or scientist.

While Michelle’s introduction to Science News was unique, we hope the curiosity that has kept her reading all these years is not. Michelle herself is helping to share her interest in science with the world.

“I often bring Science News to read on the bus,â€� she said.Ìý“I’ve been known to share, like, ‘Excuse me, do you want to hear something really cool?’â€�

We help people see science everywhere. Join 91µ¼º½ by December 31 and have your contribution matched! Support the organization that powers the next generation of problem solvers.

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Daryl Anderson, Senior Media Sales Manager

“One of my favorite moments was the opportunity to sing and enjoy karaoke with some of my ³¦´Ç±ô±ô±ð²¹²µ³Ü±ð²õ.â€�

Brandy Boyd, Database Administrator

“One of my favorite moments this year has been engaging with the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair held in Columbus, Ohio, particularly witnessing the impressive science projects presented by the young participants. Additionally, the transition as we move into the Society’s new building has been a significant and memorable milestone.â€�

Nicolien Buholzer, Volunteer Manager

“This year was my first year with the Society, and it’s really been such a fun ride learning all the ins and outs of our programs. From chaperoning Regeneron STS and Thermo Fisher JIC finalists to coordinating hundreds of volunteers in Columbus for Regeneron ISEF, it’s been a great chance to learn on the ground with an awesome team. And truly, that’s been my highlight: getting to know everyone across the organization and coming together to pull off once-in-a-lifetime programs for all our different audiences.â€�

Liam Chambers, Education Programs Systems Specialist

“A highlight of 2025 was hearing an audience of 200 educators cheer for the new Graph of the Week lesson plan for Science News Learning at the Research Teachers Conference. I do not often see educators’ reactions to our content. I support behind the scenes to produce the materials and webpages, so it was incredibly affirming to witness their appreciation for Science News and this new lesson plan format. We produced 30 GraphsÌýof the Week items this year, and I think about this moment each time I publish a new lesson plan.â€�

Shannon Giorgianni, Director of Philanthropic Partnerships

“One of my 2025 highlights was working the Society booth at the Appalachian State University Academic Innovation Conference in western North Carolina. First of all, I’m from North Carolina and basking in those warm and welcoming accents felt like coming home. But what made the experience so memorable was how thrilled the teachers were by what our 91µ¼º½ Programs had to offer — the Science News content, the resources, the professional development and the community. They were giddy with excitement as they took magazines and signed up for programming. I really felt like I was giving back to my community. Even now, I feel teary-eyed just thinking about it.”

Rory Kemp, Advancement Specialist, Operations

“I met a young man at ISEF 2025 who showcased his research on different uses for soybeans. I found his enthusiasm delightful. His goal was to create a faster-growing, more affordable food source for people in need. I found his breadth of knowledge about soybean farming fascinating and his push to help create reliable, healthy food for people in need inspiring. This small interaction stayed with me during the whirlwind that was ISEF 2025.�

Demian Perry, Digital Director, Science News

“One standout memory from 2025 was working with the Science News Learning and publishing teams to improve the login experience of the Science News and Science News Explores websites and iterating on ways to make educator resources and relevant materials easier to find.

“I recently picked up my middle schooler at the bus stop, and she was glowingÌýafter a conversation with her science teacher, who said Science News is the best source for learning about new science.ÌýThat moment showed how much equity our learning team has built up with teachers through steady outreach to incorporate our reporting into curricula across the country. I am looking forward to further extending that partnership in 2026.â€�

Maria Temming, Assistant Managing Editor, Science News

“My favorite projects this year were stories for the ’ Technically Fiction column, where we investigate real science related to tropes in sci-fi and fantasy. I had so much fun writing about , Ìýand the . This column offers a unique opportunity to indulge my curiosity about weird and whimsical topics and connect with Science News Explores’ young readers through pop culture they are familiar with.â€�

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Over the years, we’ve spoken with some of our passionate volunteers who perform vital roles such as language interpreters, Grand Awards judges and committee members. Here’s a look back at their reflections on why they volunteer and their advice to others who might be interested in getting involved. Follow each link to read the full interviews.

Alina Bengert-Lombardi

“I would encourage everyone to volunteer at ISEF regardless of whether you speak a different language, because there are so many tasks and volunteering roles. Not only will you walk out inspired, but going to these events feels like you’re in Jules Verne’s book,Ìý‘Around the World in Eighty Days’Ìýbecause it’s like going around the world through student projects, or in this case, 2,000 projects.â€�

Karen Kinsman

“My excitement for the future is interwoven with my many fond memories of volunteering at ISEF over the years, including providing support at registration or other elements of the fair. I recall all the students I’ve had the privilege to support and the amazing things they have already accomplished early in their careers and lives. It’s a privilege to form genuine connections with so many students and educators and to support each of them on their journeys to amazing successes.�

Chris Mucha

“I volunteer because I want to give back to a program that inspired me and helped me build confidence. My first time competing at ISEF in 1993 showed me the breadth of what I could accomplish and inspired me to return home and tackle big issues. ISEF does an incredible job of connecting young people around the world through discovery and a common desire to make the world a better place. Why wouldn’t you want to get involved with that?�

Sheila Porter

“As a volunteer, one gets the opportunity to be a part of the magical moments and to support not only the students but also the teachers and parents. Some students participate year after year, and it is lovely to see them grow and progress from producing something simple to something amazing. ÌýIt’s a privilege to be a part of a team working to support them and to help them equip themselves with the skills, knowledge and passion that result from participation in a 91µ¼º½ fair.â€�

Chris RoDee

“As a Regeneron ISEF volunteer, you will meet a lot of really fantastic people. If you continue volunteering, every year becomes like a reunion — you pick up exactly where you left off. You work together, trust each other and there is a real camaraderie among all the volunteers. We all have the common goal of helping these students succeed.�

Edna Santizo

“I help international students from Spanish-speaking countries explain their projects in front of the judges. Most of the international students are visiting the United States for the first time. For some, it’s their first international trip. The enthusiasm, joy and desire to share their projects is contagious, and perhaps the most fulfilling aspect is serving as a bridge of communication.�

Learn more about volunteer opportunities at Regeneron ISEF 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona next May!

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In addition to presenting their original research to a panel of expert judges, the finalists also took part in a series of team-based challenges requiring both 91µ¼º½ skill and effective collaboration.

So, it should come as no surprise that Thermo Fisher JIC was as much about making friends and building bonds as it was about competing. Throughout the week, the finalists took part in fun, social activities that brought them closer together.

As the week got underway, the finalists immediately had the chance to put their heads and hands together. Through a series of icebreakers and team-building activities, they got to know each other while ro-sham-boing their way through a frenetic rock-paper-scissors tournament, supporting each other (literally) during a modified trust fall and some good old-fashioned conversation.

Later on, the finalists, who represented 10 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, got a first-hand look at the historic sights and scenes around Washington D.C. After a long day of presenting their projects to the judges, as well as to the public during their Science and Engineering Project Showcase, the finalists unwound together on a monument tour around the city. One of this year’s finalists, Yookta Pandit from Dublin, Calif., said, “My favorite part of the monument tour was getting to see the main sights in D.C., especially with all the lights of the monuments at night.�

Finalist Anya Zahira Terón Villodas, one of three finalists visiting from Puerto Rico this year, added, “ Since it was my first time visiting Washington, D.C., I truly enjoyed exploring its historic sites. The tour was a great chance to interact with participants from the other teams.�

Another memorable social highlight of the week was the finalists’ evening trip to , a cooperative arcade where visitors work in teams to solve intricate puzzles and take on challenges. Sound familiar?

With the spirit of teamwork carried over from the earlier competition challenges, the finalists joined forces once again in a fun night of playful intrigue and brain-teasing discovery. Finalist Christine Wang from San Jose, Calif., reflected on the experience saying, “LEVEL99 was such a fun bonding experience! My team of fellow finalists and I worked together on some very physical challenges, which was a nice change from the more mental activities we’d been doing all day; I really enjoyed the monkey bars activity in particular!�

Finalist Brady Sage of Rapid City, S.D., remarked on the outing, “Level99 was exciting because there were so many hands-on challenges. Coming from a rural area, we have nothing like this. I loved the variety of all the different challenges, from mental to physical. It was super cool!�

All-in-all, the finalists repeatedly demonstrated what makes them such a special group: innovative ideas, 91µ¼º½ acumen, and the chance to meet other students who share their curiosity, sparking friendships that could last a lifetime.

Learn about all the 2025 Thermo Fisher JIC finalists on the Virtual Exhibition of Projects or read more about this year’s competition in our latest press release.

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From its beginnings in 1950 as the National Science Fair, with 30 students from across the United States competing for prizes totaling $1,000 in scientific equipment, to today’s gathering of nearly 2,000 finalists from over 80 countries, regions and territories, ISEF has become the largest pre-collegiate 91µ¼º½ competition in the world. Over seven and a half decades, thousands of young scientists have earned recognition for work that advances human understanding.

To celebrate National 91µ¼º½ Day and this milestone, we asked attendees at this year’s fair in Columbus, Ohio, to share their favorite ISEF memories, moments that capture what makes this event so special.

Mariano Aranda, Fair Director
San Bernardino, California

“The first year I came to ISEF was in Atlanta, the first fair that was back in person after the pandemic. My favorite memory has been seeing wonderful students from all over the world, and all of their dynamics and excitement, both in terms of their science and in the way people from different cultures come together. It’s special for everyone, including the teachers, coordinators and parents, to be part of the awesome experience here at ISEF.�

Jader Bernardes, Adult-in-Charge
Novo Hamburgo, Brazil

“The first time I came to ISEF was 2014, in Los Angeles. My favorite memories are always seeing the group together — the mixers and the energy the students have to present their work. At ISEF, students have so much passion to share their research. They are happy to show that science can transform the world. So, for me, that’s why I work so hard to bring the students here.â€�

PatrickÌýFoley, Volunteer
Little Rock, Arkansas

“I first came to ISEF in 2008, and every year has been awesome. What really sticks out are all the kids that come here with their amazing research. I remember one year when one of my students won an award. His plan was to slide across the stage on his knees — not very advisable, mind you. He ran up on stage and tried to do it, but he tripped, and he tumbled onto the stage, but he still managed to stick the landing. He was so excited. Honestly, these kids are excited every step of the way, and it fills me with the same kind of excitement.�

Quinn Hughes, Finalist
Mound, Minnesota

“My first time at ISEF was in 2023 in Atlanta. I think that it’s the people who really make or break the experience. My favorite memory is meeting new friends and keeping those connections, then coming back and seeing everyone here every year.�

Arushi Nath, Finalist
Toronto, Canada

“My favorite memory from ISEF last year was going to Universal Studios. But also, simply meeting people from all around the world, each tackling issues that they’re really passionate about in their own communities. Every project is so high level and honestly, so cool.â€�

Ivan Rivera Torres, Alum and Judge
Troy, New York

“My first time at ISEF was a long time ago, back in 1988. I have so many good memories. Most of all, I have made many good friends that I’m still in contact with. Some of these friends were other finalists, that I met again later, sometimes by coincidence, in activities or internships. It’s always fun to see ISEF alumni out in the world, even when it’s a surprise.â€�Ìý

Yamijeth Shimojyo, Adult-in-Charge
Riverside, California

“My first year at ISEF was in 2011. Every year I love it when the finalists finish presenting to the judges. They all walk out of the presentation hall, and all the adults wrap around them and cheer them on, and everyone is so excited.�

Grace Yacobe, Finalist
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

“This is my fourth year at ISEF. One of my best memories is winning my medal in Translational Medical Science at ISEF in Dallas in 2023. We were backstage taking a group photo and one person said, ‘Guys, we’re actually smart now!’ I think that was a pinnacle for me. It takes a lot of people to get here. It takes a lot of time to get here. To win an award here is something phenomenal, I’m so grateful for the opportunity.â€�

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Though this year’s cohort gathered in Washington, D.C., the competition’s first day of challenges whisked them away to the fictional town of Eureka Heights, where a high-stakes mystery awaited them. Led by (SFA), a 91µ¼º½ 91µ¼º½ Action Grantee with the mission of nurturing curiosity and collaboration through interactive workshops, the finalists stepped into the role of public health investigators.

SFA founder and executive director Jeanita Pritchett Clay set the stage: “We’ve got a problem. Something in Eureka Heights is making people sick. No one knows exactly why, but most people suspect it has something to do with the water.�

An introductory video played for the finalists like a news report, featuring interviews with Eureka Heights residents who described brown water coming from their taps as well as health issues ranging from skin irritation to gastrointestinal issues. The report concluded with a plea from the mayor: “We are looking for innovators and the brightest minds to help solve this crisis.�

The Junior Innovators set to the task. Equipped with water samples from homes, businesses and treatment plants across Eureka Heights, they set out to uncover possible sources of the problem. Thermo Fisher Scientific provided water quality testing equipment for the challenge, and their scientists were on the scene to show the finalists how to use the equipment. The finalists also had access to a trove of community data such as infrastructure maps, official memos and testimony from residents, helping them connect how social factors of the crisis intersect with environmental origins.

The six finalist teams adopted different strategies to pinpoint the possible sources and causes of the invisible menace threatening Eureka Heights.

The purple team focused on listening, zeroing in on residents’ comments and concerns to better understand the community’s challenges. Meanwhile, the orange team focused on geography, attempting to understand every variable of the landscape.

The gold team carefully considered how socioeconomic factors could be driving the public health crisis. With limited time to test all their samples, the green team made a point to be as meticulous as possible with each step of their analyses.

To address all the dimensions of the crisis, the silver team assigned its members roles such as forensic scientist, environmental justice organizer and public health advocate, with each taking the lead on an important aspect of the problem. Communication was key for the blue team. In addition to collaborating with each other during the challenge, they also catalogued their findings visually to effectively track, and later present, the full breadth of their results.

After completing their investigations, each team presented their findings to the judges in a town hall format. Sharing their process, conclusions and recommendations to reverse the crisis, the finalists ensured that solutions were in sight for the people of Eureka Heights.

Though each team presented independently, one common refrain emerged: if they had more time, they would have liked to collaborate with the other teams to combine their findings into even stronger recommendations. In this challenge, finalists discovered firsthand how collaboration can drive 91µ¼º½ impact.

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