FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [ST. PAUL, MN, April 4, 2022] -- Kristen Piehl, a Visitation School educator, has won the prestigious Seagate Excellence in Science Mentoring Award at the 85th annual Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair (SSEF). This award recognizes an outstanding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teacher who finds creative ways to nurture students’ interest in scientific research and discovery. Teachers are nominated by students, parents, and school staff. Award recipients receive a $1,000, a trophy and a Seagate hard drive. Each teacher’s school or science program also receives $1,000.

An individual nominating Ms. Piehl remarked that “in addition to providing supporting students in their science endeavors, she has formed close relationships with students and has helped them further their scientific careers by highlighting their strengths and working on developing their weaknesses.”

The 2022 SSEF was a hybrid event hosted by the Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS) from March 20-31. Full SSEF results are available at mnmas.org.

In addition to the Excellence in Science Mentoring Award, Seagate sponsors two other SSEF awards. Seagate recognizes excellent scientific research conducted by students competing for the first time with the Seagate Emerging Scientist Award. Saeagate’s Rising Star Award recognizes two emerging student scientists whose projects demonstrate high degrees of difficulty, thoroughness, complexity, creativity, innovation, and effective communication.

At a live award ceremony on March 30, Seagate representative Nikki Shaffer announced the Seagate award winners. Seagate is a long-time sponsor and supporter of the SSEF, and is one of the event’s premier sponsors. “The support of Seagate is a critical aspect of promoting student STEM education and research in Minnesota,” said MAS Executive Director Lara Maupin. Employees at Seagate served as volunteer judges during the SSEF, reviewing student projects from home to provide feedback and determine award winners. 

The Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair is a program of the Minnesota Academy of Science. Seagate Technology remains the event’s premier sponsor. Additional support comes from the Minnesota Department of Education, Ecolab, Broadcom Foundation, General Mills, and the Hardenbergh Foundation.