[ST. PAUL, MN, April 28, 2021] -- Thirty-five students from 14 regional colleges and universities presented their original STEM research at the Winchell Undergraduate Research Symposium, which occurred virtually on April 24. The Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS) hosts the Winchell Symposium, an annual event that provides an opportunity for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) undergraduate students to gain valuable experience presenting original research. 

Thirteen local STEM professionals volunteered as judges and selected the following students for “Judges’ Choice Awards”:
Jessica Crosson, University of Northwestern - St. Paul
Gabriella Lott, College of St. Benedict - St. John's University
Kendall Luman, University of Northwestern - St. Paul
Sophee Schwanberg, Bethel University
Cole Van Houten, St. Mary's University of Minnesota
Mackenzie Waters, St. Mary's University of Minnesota
Maya Wills, Macalester College
Delaney Wolf, St. Mary's University of Minnesota
Andy Yang, Crown College

“Judges were incredibly impressed with the research and presentation skills demonstrated by students in this year’s Winchell Symposium,” said program director Kristine Fowler. “These college students have surmounted significant challenges brought on by the pandemic to conduct research and develop exciting presentations. The experience gained during the Winchell Symposium will be important preparation for their future STEM careers or graduate education.”

In addition to their presentations, participants enjoyed opening remarks by Dr. Aeisha Thomas, the symposium planning committee chair, and a keynote address by Dr. Jim Maher. Students also participated in numerous breakout sessions featuring members of the local STEM community. 

The Winchell Symposium is a program of the Minnesota Academy of Science sponsored by the Michael H. Baker Family Foundation, the Minnesota Section of the American Chemical Society, the TriBeta Biology Honor Society, and sponsoring colleges and universities.

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Media contacts:
Emily Shepard, MAS Communications Specialist

Student presenters’ academic institutions:
Bethel University, St. Paul
Carleton College, Northfield
Crown College, Saint Bonifacius
College of St. Benedict - St. John's University, Collegeville
Hamline University, St. Paul
Macalester College, St. Paul
Missouri State University
Rochester Community and Technical College, Rochester
St. Catherine University, St. Paul
St. Mary's University, Winona
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
University of Northwestern, St. Paul
University of St. Thomas, St. Paul
Wartburg College