SRU to host Junior Academy of Science presentations
Feb. 7, 2017
SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - More than 500 aspiring scientists will compete for nearly $25,000 in Slippery Rock University scholarships when the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science stages its 60th annual Region IX meeting Feb. 25 in the Smith Student Center Ballroom. It is the 20th time the event has been staged at SRU.
"It is always very gratifying to see so many junior high and senior high school students present the results of their own science research projects," said William Sigmund, SRU professor of biology. "(The day) also allows the students to see what the others are doing in their respective disciplines and see what the University has to offer. Many of the visiting teachers have also expressed how impressed they have been with our participating SRU students and faculty."
The University is again offering a $12,000 scholarship ($3,000 per year for four years) to SRU for the top senior and the top junior award winners. Additionally, SRU's mathematics and chemistry departments will present $100 awards for the top senior high student and junior high student presentations in their respective disciplines; SRU's biology department will offers a $100 award for the top senior high student and junior high student presentations in any biological field, plus a $200 Mentor Award to both of the winning student's teacher-sponsors for the purchase of science supplies at their home school.
Top presenters in each discipline also earn cash awards or gift certificates from the Region IX committee and other program sponsors.
Brad Wilson, SRU associate provost for transformational experiences, will present the welcome address at the 11 a.m. judges luncheon in Weisenfluh Dining Hall.
SRU President Cheryl Norton will address the students and teacher-sponsors at a 6 p.m. awards ceremony.
Nearly 200 judges, including SRU and high school faculty, professionals and SRU students, participate in the program, spending 8-10 minutes reviewing individual student works and asking questions about the project before rendering a final rank.
Participants who receive a "First Place" rating will have the opportunity to participate in the state competition that will take place at Penn State University in May.
The PJAS is a statewide organization of junior and senior high school students designed to "stimulate and promote interest in science among its members through the development of research projects and investigations," according to the PJAS website.
MEDIA CONTACT: Robb King | 724.738.2199 | robert.king@sru.edu