Class of 2026 Finalists

(Biographies provided by the candidates.)

ARIZONA
Maricopa - Karasi Shawna Bliss Colter, daughter of Laura Lee, Phoenix, Arizona. Shawna will graduate from Betty
Fairfax High School where she is a student tutor and member of the Arizona Department of Education Equitable and
Inclusive Practices Advisory Council. She is the student ambassador of a local Volunteen Program servicing homeless
communities and plans to major in industrial engineering and economics.

FLORIDA
Hillsborough - Kathryn Alison Healy, daughter of Michael and Leslie Healy, Tampa, Florida. Kathryn will graduate from
Walter L. Sickles High School where she is founder and president of Sickles Pickleball Club, member of three honor
societies and FFA, and employee at a veterinary hospital and local dairy farm. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering at
various organizations and competing nationally in horseback riding. Kathryn plans to major in animal science as a
stepping stone to veterinary school.

Orange - Ana-Victoria Gomez, daughter of Eduardo and Ana Maria Gomez, Maitland, Florida. Ana-Victoria will graduate
from Winter Park High School where she is the senior class secretary in student government, the founder of Spanish
Mode Club, and an officer of the Spanish Honor Society. She also is an IB Diploma Candidate, AP Scholar, and
volunteers with the Army of Angels program to tutor kids throughout the county. Ana-Victoria plans to major in psychology.

GEORGIA
Dawson - Megan Claire Wright, daughter of Susan and Devin Wright, Dawsonville, Georgia. Megan will graduate from
Dawson County High School where she is president of Future Business Leaders of America, treasurer of Beta Club, and
treasurer of National Honor Society. She also volunteers monthly with Hightower Association’s Food and Clothing Bank
and has been named Star Student for her school. Megan plans to major in environmental technology and management.

Fulton - Kathryn Lucy Castle, daughter of Theresa and John Castle, Atlanta, Georgia. Kathryn will graduate from Marist
School where she is the co-president of the Girls Who Code club, a board member of the National Honor Society, and the
programming co-captain of her FRC Robotics team. She also has been a volunteer tutor for adults looking to get their
GED and a volunteer teaching assistant in computer science and engineering for students in lower-income areas. Kathryn
plans to major in mechanical engineering.

ILLINOIS
Cook - Taylor Tracz, daughter of Cristy and Peter Tracz, Arlington Heights, Illinois. Taylor will graduate from John
Hersey High School where she coordinates the Super Buddies program, bringing together special-ed and gen-ed students
through various activities throughout the year. She is also a member of the varsity volleyball team and a volunteer peer
tutor, specializing in math, science, and Spanish. She is a certified Special Olympics coach, National Merit Semifinalist,
and volunteer at the Lutheran Home, where she directs activities, including exercises and trivia, for residents with
dementia. Taylor plans to major in integrative physiology and neurobiology.

Kane - Disha Dureja, daughter of Sudhir and Sharmishtha Dureja, Fox River Grove, Illinois. Disha will graduate from the
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy where she is president of Peer Multicultural Educators and coordinator of the
Leadership, Education, and Development Program. She has volunteered as a writing tutor and run a convention
dedicated to providing students with the resources to make their campuses more equitable.

1
Lake - Niveditha Iyengar, Daughter of Roopa Ramanathapura and Kyathanahalli Janardhan, Vernon Hills, Illinois.
Niveditha will graduate from Vernon Hills High School. She is a volunteer teacher of Sanskrit for Samskrita Bharati, an
active member of the National Honor Society, and earned the Presidential Service Award in 2021. Niveditha plans to
major in industrial design.

KENTUCKY
Warren - Samirah Ndane Salifu, daughter of Zakare and Raina Salifu, Bowling Green, Kentucky. Samirah will graduate
from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science and Greenwood High School where she is president of Project
Unite and WiSTEM, a Gatton Avatar (tour guide), and a member of Greenwood's Science Olympiad team. She also
volunteers at the Warren County Public Library and Hardin Planetarium and is an International Science and Engineering
Fair Finalist. Samirah plans to major in chemical engineering.

LOUISIANA
East Baton Rouge - Jason Chidindu Mbagwu, son of Edith and Fabian Mbagwu, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Jason will
graduate from Episcopal High School of Baton Rouge where he is chief of staff of the Episcopal Student Body, team
captain of the Episcopal Soccer Team, and a member of the National Honor Society. He has been recognized as a
College Board National African American Scholar, an Episcopal Student Ambassador, and Episcopal's 2020-2021 Soccer
Offensive MVP. Jason plans to major in biology.

Jefferson - Phillip Hoan Dinh, son of Hung Dinh and Nhi Luong, Kenner, Louisiana. Phillip will graduate from Patrick F.
Taylor Science and Technology Academy where he is vice president of the Southeast Louisiana Youth Council,
president/founder of Patrick Taylor's Youth and Government, and vice president of National Honor Society. He is an
AI4ALL Scholar from Columbia University's AI4ALL Program, earned Magna Cum Laude on the National Latin Exam, and
live-streamed a virtual shadowing program for 500 high school students. Phillip plans to major in computer science.

MARYLAND
Montgomery - Bethel Chanyalew, daughter of Chanyalew Mengistu and Zufan Habtemariam, Silver Spring, Maryland.
Bethel will graduate from Montgomery Blair High School where she was secretary of the We The East Club. She has
been a volunteer teacher of a local church and implements weekly lessons for a group of middle and high school students
and is a counselor at an after-care program for more than 80 elementary school students. Bethel plans to major in
criminology.

NEW YORK
Nassau - Nayah Grace McKenzie, daughter of Earl and Tara McKenzie, Baldwin, New York. Nayah will graduate from
Baldwin Senior High School where she is a National Honor Society Community Service Officer, a member of FIRST
Robotics Team 1546, and a published poet in the Phoenix Art and Literary Magazine. She is a recipient of the University
of Rochester George Eastman Young Leaders Award, plays the oboe in the honors band, and helped raise over $8,000
as vice president of the Make-A-Wish Club. Nayah plans to major in computer engineering.

Nassau - Chase Ryan Nussbaum, son of Scott and Jennifer Nussbaum, Bellmore, New York. Chase will graduate from
John F. Kennedy High School where he is captain of the varsity volleyball team, a peer tutor coordinator of the National
Honor Society, and the BBYO Vice President of the Nassau-Suffolk Region. He has also volunteered as an assistant
coach for both the boys' and girls' volleyball teams at his middle school, earned an AP Capstone Diploma, and was the
recipient of the 2021 Joseph Dolan Character Scholarship by the Nassau County Boy's Coaches Association. Chase
plans to major in engineering.

Nassau - Ariana Paul, daughter of Dimytry Paul and Touhida Talukder, Long Island, New York. Ariana will graduate from
Valley Stream North High School where she is president of the Black Student Union and captain of both the Spartan Step
Team and the track and field team. She has been a community service leader in the Valley Stream Youth Group for the
last four years, a science and math tutor for students within her high school, and captain of the National Youth Physical
Fitness Program of the Marine Corps League at Valley Stream North, where she further won the Stars and Stripes
Forever Award. Ariana plans to major in atmospheric sciences and meteorology.

NORTH CAROLINA
Beaufort - William Jackson Wilder, son of Beth and Jack Wilder, Washington, North Carolina. Jackson will graduate
from Washington High School and Beaufort County Community College with an associate’s degree in arts. He represents
BCCC as an ambassador, is a member of the Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society, and is captain for both the cross country
and swim teams. Jackson is an Eagle Scout, where he built an outdoor food pantry at his high school, and enjoys working
as a sailing instructor at the Little Washington Sailing School. He has served as a WyldLife leader for middle school
students. Jackson plans to major in textile technology.

2
Brunswick - Emma Brooke Stone, daughter of Brad and Kelly Stone, Southport, North Carolina. Emma will graduate
from South Brunswick High School where she is the editor-in-chief of the yearbook, captain of the varsity volleyball and
swim teams, and president of the student athletic leadership team. She was able to aid healthcare workers during the
COVID-19 pandemic by making and distributing 1,740 headbands and ear protectors and volunteers at a local food
pantry. Emma plans to major in biological science.

Buncombe - Sawyer Young Cumbow, son of Jamie Harbison and Brad Cumbow, Candler, North Carolina. Sawyer will
graduate from Enka High School where he is class president, an avid runner, and a soccer player. He represented Enka
High the past summer in mathematics at the Governor's School of North Carolina, actively volunteers for Key Club, and
has been voted "Most Likely to Succeed." Sawyer plans to major in aerospace engineering.

Buncombe - Katherine Elizabeth Rudins, daughter of Andy and Laurie Rudins, Fletcher, North Carolina. Katie will
graduate from Carolina Day School where she is senior class president, team captain and a three-time all-state runner on
the varsity cross country team, and a member of the Mu Alpha Theta mathematics honor society. She is also a three-time
recipient of the William C. Owen Memorial Award for high moral character and leadership, a Carson Scholar, and a
dedicated volunteer with Horizons at Carolina Day, an enrichment program for underserved children. Katie plans to major
in applied mathematics.

Buncombe - Riley Grace Shuman, daughter of Sam and Dana Shuman, Fairview, North Carolina. Riley will graduate
from Asheville Christian Academy where she is a member of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, student
government, and is the presumptive valedictorian. She is a captain of the volleyball team, where she led her team to a
state championship, is a six-time excellence award winner, which is given to two girls on the volleyball team annually. She
is an avid supporter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation where she helps raise money and support. Riley plans
to major in biomedical engineering.

Buncombe - Ansley Meredith Whitaker, daughter of Scott Whitaker, Asheville, North Carolina. Ansley will graduate from
A.C. Reynolds High School where she is the treasurer of Key Club and a representative for her school's Opioid Youth
Leadership Council. She is also an intern for the City of Asheville, an advocate for substance use prevention, and a
freelance business consultant. Ansley plans to major in mathematics.

Cabarrus - Sreenidhi Elayaperumal, daughter of Gandhimathi Ramalingam and Elayaperumal Ganapathy, Concord,
North Carolina. Sreenidhi will graduate from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where she is the co-
executive chair of TEDxYouth@NCSSM, a senior senator and chair of the Outreach Committee for Student Government,
and a member of HOSA-Future Health Professionals. She is also a residential life assistant and director of Sisters for
STEM, a club that pairs NCSSM students with girls at Brogden Middle School to help them conduct STEM research
projects. Sreenidhi plans to major in biomedical engineering.

Cabarrus - Shiva Gadireddy, son of Uday Gadireddy and Vinita Gurram, Concord, North Carolina. Shiva will graduate
from Cox Mill High School where he is president of the HOSA-Future Health Professionals club, a varsity member on the
Science Olympiad team, and a team lead for Cox Mill Robotics. He has been a STEM intern at Discovery Place Science,
a volunteer at the Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center, and was also nominated as a National Merit Scholarship
Program Semifinalist. Shiva plans to major in computer science.

Cabarrus - Lori Marie Hoover, daughter of Kirk and Lynn Hoover, Mount Pleasant, North Carolina, Lori will graduate
from Mount Pleasant High School where she is captain of the color guard and swim team. She also volunteers with her
church and painted a mural for her school. Lori plans to major in chemical engineering.

Cabarrus - Mariam Matin, daughter of Mohammed Matin and Shahanara Miah, Harrisburg, North Carolina. Mariam will
graduate from Hickory Ridge High School where she is president and founder of the FCCLA Baking Club, president of the
Key Club, and president of Science Olympiad. Mariam is also a tutor for the NCVPS Peer Tutoring Center, an alumna of
the Governor's School of North Carolina, and a recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Gold Award. Mariam plans
to double major in biology and psychology.

Cabarrus - Akshar Mahendra Patel, son of Mahendra and Hema Patel, Concord, North Carolina. Akshar will graduate
from Northwest Cabarrus High School where he is the president of the Academy of Health Sciences, president of the
National Honor Society chapter, and captain of the robotics teams. He has worked with The Breast Cancer Hub to raise
awareness about colorectal cancer in his community, led state-recognized research in the realm of vector physics and
inferential statistics, and has helped to build temples from the ground up. Akshar plans to major in biomedical engineering.

3
Cabarrus - Karla S. Velasquez-Contreras, daughter of Elvin Velasquez and Irma Contreras, Concord, North Carolina.
Karla will graduate from Jay M. Robinson High School where she is the president of the Spanish National Honor Society,
co-president of the Multicultural Club, and is Cadet Deputy Group Commander in her school’s Air Force JROTC program.
She was a volunteer soccer coach during multiple summers, awarded the National Air Force Association Award, and
helped start the Kitty Hawk Honor Society during her time in Air Force JROTC. Karla plans to major in horticulture
science.

Catawba - Klaire Emily Starr, daughter of Anthony and Elizabeth Starr, Hickory, North Carolina. Klaire will graduate from
Saint Stephens High School where she is the student body president, a state and national champion of the SkillsUSA
Competition, and vice president of the Junior Statesmen of America chapter. She is also a member of Hickory City Youth
Council, Beta Club, and captain of the high school tennis team. Klaire plans to major in business finance and accounting.

Chatham - Dylan Hailey Philipps, daughter of Christopher and Meredith Philipps, Pittsboro, North Carolina. Dylan will
graduate from the Chatham School of Science & Engineering and Central Carolina Community College where she is the
valedictorian of her class, president and founder of the weightlifting club, and captain of the robotics team. She is an avid
equestrian who won a silver medal at the 2019 Equestrian Junior Olympics, runs her own business training students and
horses alike, and is a passionate hippotherapy/therapeutic riding volunteer. Dylan plans to major in business management
and minor in both sports science and psychology.

Cleveland - Hattie Eliza Hensley, daughter of Mitch and Suzanne Hensley, Shelby, North Carolina. Hattie will graduate
from Shelby High School where she is president of the Beta Club, student body vice president, and a math tutor to middle
school students. She is the organizer and creator of The Light Ball Dash, a one-mile race that features holiday lights and
raises awareness and money for Feeding Kids Cleveland County. She has raised over $15,000 for Feeding Kids
Cleveland County and regularly volunteers for the organization. Hattie plans to major in biomedical engineering.

Cleveland - Eli Walker Roberts, son of Andy Roberts and Lori Roberts Greene, Shelby, North Carolina, Eli will graduate
from Crest High School where he is president of the National Honor Society, captain of the swim team, and a student
leader of the National League of Junior Cotillion. He was selected as the Crest High School Heisman Academic Athlete
winner along with being selected as a College Board National Rural and Small Town Recognition Academic Excellence
Program Scholar. He has also worked at Boulevard Animal Hospital for almost two years. Eli plans to major in animal
science with a pre-veterinary focus.

Cumberland - Anil Gordon, son of Lakshmi and Daniel Gordon, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Anil will graduate from
Terry Sanford High School where he is the student body vice president, vice president of the Interact Club, and principal
cellist of the honors orchestra. He also is an Eagle Scout in Troop 747 and is vice president of his Hindu youth group. Anil
plans to major in political science.

Cumberland - Hyasen Gray, daughter of Kelly Colburn, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Hyasen will graduate from Jack Britt
High School where she is a leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a varsity women's soccer player, and president
of Jack Britt's National Honor Society. She has been a volunteer with Crosspointe Church while maintaining all A's
throughout high school. Hyasen plans to major in design studies.

Cumberland - Devin Romonta Roberts, son of Roselyn Lloyd, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Devin will graduate from
Cross Creek Early College High School where he is an advisor of Interact Club, a class representative in the student
government association, and a varsity competitor on his Science Olympiad team. He also tutors STEM to middle school
students and underclassmen, participates in the Academy of Scholars, and attended the Governor’s School of North
Carolina for mathematics. Devin plans to major in electrical engineering.

Cumberland - Kaitlyn Lee Zuravel, daughter of David Lee and Ginger Zuravel, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Kaitlyn will
graduate from Terry Sanford High School, where she is chairperson of the School of Global Studies and captain of the
Science Olympiad and CyberPatriot Teams. She is a two-time finalist at the International Science & Engineering Fair,
where she won multiple awards, has earned her Girl Scout Gold Award, and serves as a Girl Scout National Delegate,
representing 41 counties in eastern North Carolina. Kaitlyn plans to major in chemical and paper engineering.

Currituck - Meara Powers Kane, daughter of Jennifer and Shaun Kane, Knotts Island, North Carolina. Meara will
graduate from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where she is the president and founder of the
Active Minds chapter, the leader of the Entomology Club, and the branch president of the Student Environmental
Education Coalition. She also volunteers with Kids Voting Durham, creates handcrafted hats and scarves to donate to
charity organizations, and has fostered animals with the Virginia Beach SPCA. Meara plans to major in marine science.

4
Currituck - Andrew Jason Sarnowski, son of Jason and Laurie Sarnowski, Currituck, North Carolina. Andrew will
graduate from Currituck County High School where he is a president of the Beta Club, the public relations chair of the
National English Honor Society, and the woodwind captain of the marching band. He has recently completed his Eagle
Scout project, attended the North Carolina Governor's School East this past summer, and volunteers at Beloved Haven in
Elizabeth City, North Carolina, a nonprofit focused on helping victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Currituck - Daniel Patrick Walker, son of Patrick and Cindy Walker, Harbinger, North Carolina. Daniel will graduate from
Currituck County High School where he serves as president of the Currituck FFA Chapter and treasurer of the North
Carolina FFA Northeast Region, brass captain and principal trombonist of the Marching Knights, and student
representative on the Currituck County Board of Education. He serves as vice president of the Currituck Beta Club, where
he organizes a virtual literacy program for students at a local elementary school. He has also earned a position in the
Eastern District All-District Band for the past five years and was twice named first chair trombone. Daniel plans to major in
biochemistry and march with the Power Sound of the South.

Dare - Rennie Parker, daughter of Laurie and Charles Parker, Hatteras, North Carolina. Rennie will graduate from Salem
Academy where she is the robotics team captain, Key Club president, and Ecology Club president. She organized the
2021 supply drive for Bethesda Center for the Homeless, many school-wide trash pickups, and has won the Citizenship
Award twice in her time at Salem Academy. Rennie plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Davidson - Sydney Elyse Loflin, daughter of Jones and Lisa Loflin, Denton, North Carolina. Sydney will graduate from
HOPE Academy where she serves as the High Rock FFA Chapter President, Cedar Springs 4-H Club President, and the
North Carolina representative on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Leadership Council. She placed second in
the National Conservation Foundation International Envirothon Competition, was inducted into the North Carolina 4-H
Honor Club, and currently serves as the chair of the Alicia Greer Memorial Scholarship Committee. Sydney plans to major
in agricultural education.

Davie - Sophia Rose Scherer, daughter of Brian and Kerri Scherer, Advance, North Carolina. Sophia will graduate from
both the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics and Forsyth Country Day School where she is the president
and founder of two service clubs, the Salute Our Troops Club and El Club de Compromiso Hispánico. She is also captain
of the Forsyth Country Day girls' varsity golf team and captain of the competition dance team. She volunteers as a
Spanish medical translator at local community health clinics and currently works as an XR software developer to create
virtual and augmented reality teaching tools. Sophia plans to major in computer science.

Durham - Dalya Al Obaidi, daughter of Muqdad Al Obaidi and Nabaa Habeeb, Durham, North Carolina. Dalya will
graduate from Charles E. Jordan High School where she is the co-founder of Women's Awareness Club, freshman class
editor of the Falcon's Post Newspaper, and youth representative leader of StrongHER TogetHER. She has a published
novel, is a member of National Honor Society, and is initiating a feminine hygiene drive at her school. Dalya plans to
major in psychology.

Durham - Asha Shah Coltrane, daughter of Sneha and Geoff Shah Coltrane, Durham, North Carolina. Asha will
graduate from Charles E. Jordan High School where she is president of the Science Olympiad team, vice president of the
Civic Engagement Club, and founder of the AP Resource Initiative in the school library. She also is a leader in the
Durham Sunrise Movement and helps to organize the mentorship program at Barriskill Dance Theatre School. Asha plans
to major in biology.

Durham - Pranet Kalpesh Sharma, son of Kalpesh and Pranoti Sharma, Cary, North Carolina. Pranet will graduate from
the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where he is a Research and Innovation Leader, captain of the
Science Olympiad team, and captain of the Physics Club. He is an Eagle Scout and has run programs to introduce
astrophysics and aerospace to the public through his blog and podcast SkySimplified. He has increased accessibility in
education for the visually impaired through his initiative Knowledge Unbounded. Pranet plans to major in aerospace
engineering.

Edgecombe - Caden Gray Robinette, son of Amy and Patrick Robinette, Pinetops, North Carolina. Caden will graduate
from North East Carolina Prep School where he is president of the Future Farmers of America. He has served on the
worship team at FaithHouse Church and has the distinct honor of being a Borlaug Scholar. Caden plans to major in food
science.

5
Forsyth - Cade Marie Brady, child of Ryan and Ashley Brady, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Cade will graduate from
West Forsyth High School where they are president of the Equality Club, two-time Poet Laureate, and an ambassador for
the National Society of High School Scholars. They were also a Spirit of Rachel Nominee for exemplifying kindness and
good character, voted Student of the Year twice, and volunteer regularly for Second Harvest Food Bank. Cade plans to
major in chemistry.

Forsyth - Joshua James Howard, son of Jim and Dalia Howard, Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Joshua will graduate
from Forsyth Country Day School where he is president of his school's Society of Engineering and Entrepreneurship, an
officer in North Carolina Youth and Government, and the managing editor of his school's newspaper. He also founded
Wisteria Woodworking to raise funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and serves as the vice president of his
school's honor council. Joshua plans to major in chemical engineering and economics.

Guilford - LaDaniel Gatling III, son of LaDaniel and Kimberly Gatling, Greensboro, North Carolina. LaDaniel Gatling III
will graduate from Walter Hines Page High School where he is a captain of the swim team and Team Voyage Club, and
served as the school's representative for the Superintendent’s Advisory Council. He also is a member of Jack and Jill of
America where he served as the parliamentarian, is active in his church, and works a job in retail at Fleet Feet. LaDaniel
Gatling III plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Guilford - Abigail Lynn Mulry, daughter of Matthew and Margaret Mulry, Greensboro, North Carolina. Abigail will
graduate from Northern Guilford High School where she is president of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica Chapter,
captain of the varsity basketball team, as well as secretary of the National Honor Society Chapter. She also volunteers at
the Greensboro Science Center where she educates her community about animals and the environment, is captain of
Northern's Science Olympiad team, and has published research related to COVID-19. Abigail plans to major in biomedical
engineering.

Guilford - Sophia Anne Singer, daughter of Erik and Heather Singer, High Point, North Carolina. Sophia will graduate
from Westchester Country Day School where she is a member of the National Honor Society, a three-sport athlete and
captain, a Governor's School of North Carolina attendee, and a Merit Scholarship recipient. She has volunteered with the
Boys and Girls Club of Davidson County where she leads Odyssey of the Mind STEM experiences and helps with the Girl
Scout troop. Sophia plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Guilford - Jenny Tran, daughter of Phuong Nguyen and Phuoc Tran, Greensboro, North Carolina. Jenny will graduate
from the STEM Early College at North Carolina A&T where she is president of Service-Learning Ambassadors, a
representative in the Service and Social Justice Committee, and school organizer for Operation Bedroll, an initiative that
crochets recycled plastic bags into bed mats for those experiencing homelessness. She is also a Carson Scholar, an
intern at the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, and a mentor for the STEM Academy of North Carolina.
Jenny plans to major in biology.

Iredell - Brennan Michael Selcz, son of Tony and Karen Selcz, Mooresville, North Carolina. Brennan will graduate from
Lake Norman High School where he is president of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and runs cross country
and varsity track. He is also a calculus tutor, National Merit Semi-Finalist, and was a 2020 national qualifier for FBLA in
Spreadsheet Applications. Brennan plans to major in statistics.

Iredell - Jacob Marshall Stewart, son of Marshall and Diane Stewart, Statesville, North Carolina. Jacob Stewart will
graduate from West Iredell High School where he is the Army JROTC Battalion Commander, student body vice president,
and archery team captain. He is the recipient of the National Small Town and Rural Recognition Program Award, the 2021
Top Academic Scholars Award, and the Military Officer Association of America Award. Jacob plans to pursue a career in
the field of electrical engineering.

Johnston - Isaac Benjamin Drown, son of Kimberly and Matthew Drown, Smithfield, North Carolina. Isaac will graduate
from West Johnston High School where he is the vice president and percussion captain of the band, as well as swim team
captain. He is an Eagle Scout, scout camp staff member, and member of the Order of the Arrow. He plans to major in
parks management or forestry.

Johnston - Hannah Grace Freeman, daughter of Josh and Courtney Freeman, Clayton, North Carolina. Hannah will
graduate from South Johnston High School where she is the vice president of Building Communities with the South
Johnston FFA and a Trojan Ambassador. She was awarded the Chapter Leadership Award in 2019, volunteered with a
kindergarten class to grow a class garden, and was the top associate degree pathway student in 2021. Hannah plans to
major in animal science.

6
Johnston - Audrey Young, daughter of Amanda Young, Clayton, North Carolina. Audrey will graduate from Johnston
County Early College Academy where she is the student director of the Tutors Guild, president of JCC's Competitive Math
Club, and a peer mentor. She also is JCECA's STEM School ambassador, a two-time JCC honors experience student,
and was accepted to Governor's School of North Carolina. Audrey plans to major in paper science and chemical
engineering.

Lee - Audrey Thomas, daughter of Barry and Amanda Thomas, Sanford, North Carolina. Audrey will graduate from Lee
Early College High School where she is president of Science Olympiad, on the executive board of the community
college's honor society Phi Theta Kappa, and was the translation emcee for the Confucius classroom. She also has
placed in Science Olympiad Fermi competitions, is a Lee County Scholar for Academic Excellence, and has been
awarded Central Carolina Community College's Outstanding Student in the Chinese Language. Audrey plans to major in
cell and molecular biology.

McDowell - John Joseph Moss, son of John and Tracey Moss, Marion, North Carolina. John will graduate from
McDowell High School where he is the president of the National Honor Society, captain of the swim team, and an active
participant in DECA. He has initiated an agent of change project in which he teaches science topics to elementary school
students and was a volunteer in Mr. MHS, a fundraiser for local families in need. John plans to major in aerospace
engineering.

Mecklenburg - Sruthi Anil, daughter of Bindhu and Anil Puthusseri, Huntersville, North Carolina. Sruthi will graduate
from Pine Lake Preparatory where she is president of the Science Olympiad team, co-president of Mu Alpha Theta, and
director of engineering on her robotics team. She is a teacher's assistant for the math department and also helps run a
school-wide math tutoring program. Sruthi plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Mecklenburg - Diya Bhatt, daughter of Vijay and Uma Bhatt, Charlotte, North Carolina. Diya will graduate from
Providence High School where she is captain of the Speech and Debate team, president of Spanish Honor Society, and
copy editor of Providence High's Literary Magazine. She is the founder and executive director of a nonprofit that assists
the Hispanic community with COVID-19 relief, and she is a recipient of both the President’s Volunteer Service Gold Award
and the Speech and Debate Academic All-American Award. Diya plans to major in aerospace engineering.

Mecklenburg - Sophia Deal, daughter of Maristela and Lindsey Deal, Cornelius, North Carolina. Sophia will graduate
from W.A. Hough High School where she is president of National Honor Society, co-captain of the women's varsity golf
team, and first violinist in the Hough High School Orchestra. She is a volunteer at The Laurels at Highland Creek, playing
piano and violin with colleagues for residents. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she led a project to reach local nursing
homes remotely with music videos. Sophia plans to major in chemical engineering.

Mecklenburg - Sydnee Lin Fryer, daughter of Jenna Fryer, Charlotte, North Carolina. Syd will graduate from South
Mecklenburg High School where she is student body president, president of the Young Democrats club, and member of
the National Honor and Spanish Honor Society. She is an executive fellow and student organizer for the non-profit Our
Turn, mentors recent immigrant students, and served as a global event intern for the Associated Press. Syd plans to
major in international politics.

Mecklenburg - Sherry Liu, daughter of Jing Jin and Eugene Liu, Charlotte, North Carolina. Sherry will graduate from the
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where she is a captain of the computer science club, a director of the
TEDxYouth@NCSSM event, and an assistant to the Ryden AI Program. She also founded the nonprofit tutoring program
Peer2Peer and received the Cyber Scholar Award. She plans to major in computer science.

Mecklenburg - Axel Fabian Nunez, son of Maria Nunez, Charlotte, North Carolina. Axel will graduate from Charlotte
Engineering Early College where he is president of the ambassadors of both UNCC Early Colleges (engineering and
teaching), a commended leader of the Senior Council, a National Technical Honor Society, and was selected as a LEDA
Scholar in his junior year. He has been a leader and stakeholder at Alianza Coalition to promote awareness of substance
abuse and he founded “Build-Esperanza'' to motivate Latinx students who have trouble with the language barrier to
pursue higher education. He interned at NASA SEES with the mosquito mappers team in the summer of 2021. Axel plans
to major in aerospace engineering.

Mecklenburg - Aditi Sengupta, daughter of Aparna Sen and Jayanta Sengupta, Charlotte, North Carolina. Aditi will
graduate from Ardrey Kell High School, where she is president of the mock trial team and captain of the speech and
debate team. She is also president and co-founder of Xcelerate NC, a 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit that works with
children around the world. In 2021, she was awarded the National Liberty Museum Young Heroes Award for her volunteer
work and community service. Aditi plans to major in computer science and pursue a law degree in the future.

7
Mecklenburg - Walter Henderson Wolfe IV, son of Walter and Michael Wolfe, Huntersville, North Carolina. Walter will
graduate from Community School of Davidson where he is president of the National Honor Society and has been elected
a student government representative for four years. He sails competitively on Lake Norman, earning the title of Youth
North American Sunfish Champion, and takes part in the research of sustainable water desalination at UNC Charlotte.
Walter plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Moore - Nathan Timothy Auman, son of Bryan and Stephanie Auman, Jackson Springs, North Carolina. Nathan will
graduate from Union Pines High School where he is the commanding officer of the Navy JROTC, editor-in-chief of the
yearbook, and core leader of Student2Student. He also volunteers for National Honor Society and Leo Club, and recently
initiated a support group for classmates who have emotional and mental difficulties. Nathan plans to major in engineering.

Moore - Molly Sue Smith, daughter of Daniel and Cheryl Smith, Robbins, North Carolina. Molly will graduate from North
Moore High School where she is executive student body president, president of the Random Acts of Kindness Club, and
brass captain for the North Moore Marching Mustangs. She also fundraises for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is a
Moore County Schools Student Ambassador, and works as a Floral Clerk at Harris Teeter in her free time. Molly plans to
double major in political science and environmental science.

Moore - Ethan Alexander Spain, son of Kathleen Letizia and Mark Spain, Pinehurst, North Carolina. Ethan will graduate
from Pinecrest High School. He is executive vice president of the Student Government Association, a varsity tennis
player, and an online student at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. He volunteers as a peer tutor at
Pinecrest and West Pine Middle School as a clarinet tutor. He also plays in the all-volunteer Moore County Concert Band.
Ethan plans to major in aerospace engineering.

Nash - Anna Catherine Powell, daughter of Paul and Sherry Powell, Battleboro, North Carolina. Anna will graduate from
Northern Nash High School where she is a Knights Ambassador, plays for the FC Firecrackers 18U National volleyball
team, and is a lead singer in her church's praise team. She is also a member of multiple service organizations including
the Rocky Mount Debu-ette's, National Honor Society, and has served for three years on the Appalachian Service Project.
Anna plans to major in biomedical engineering.

New Hanover - Noelle Elyssa Aguam Davies, daughter of Richard and Sharon Davies, Carolina Beach, North Carolina.
Noelle will graduate from Eugene Ashley High School where she is president of National Honor Society, president of Beta
Club, and vice president of Key Club. She recently led a food drive that collected more than 460 pounds of food for
Nourish NC, is a member of the student equity team, and is a national competitor in graphic/apparel design for Beta Club.
Noelle plans to major in finance.

New Hanover - Eleanor Celeste Meinhold, daughter of Jennifer Horan and Stephen Meinhold, Wilmington, North
Carolina. Eleanor will graduate from Isaac Bear Early College High School where she is the founder of the Environmental
Action Club, secretary of the National Honor Society, and a past president and board member of Science Fair Academy.
She volunteers as a mentorship coordinator and board member for the STEM Mentorship Academy 501(c)(3) and as a
coxswain on her local rowing team. Eleanor plans to major in environmental engineering and chemistry.

New Hanover - Gavin Brett Reider, son of Brett and Sara Reider, Wilmington, North Carolina. Gavin will graduate from
Emsley A. Laney High School where he is co-vice president of the National Honor Society, treasurer of the National Beta
Club, and a dominant member of the Math Team. He was selected to attend the Governor's School of North Carolina, won
first place in the North Carolina Bar Association Sustainability Essay Contest, and is a varsity member of the cross
country and track teams. Gavin plans to major in physics.

Orange - Cole Heinz Malinchock, son of Laura and Michael Malinchock, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Cole will graduate
from Chapel Hill High School where he is the First Robotics Club Head of Mechanical and president and founder of the ski
and snowboard club. He also completed one TransAmerica Bicycle Trail ride to raise funds for the Be Loud Sophie
Foundation, is a WCHL hometown hero, and is an Eagle Scout.

Orange - William Isaac Trost, son of Marty Nelson and William Trost, Hillsborough, North Carolina. Isaac will graduate
from Orange High School where he is captain of the robotics team, clarinet section leader in the band, and convention
chair of Beta Club. He also sat on the committee to find a new priest for St. Philips Episcopal Church, was selected for the
North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics online program, and helps pick up food for the PORCH food bank
program. Isaac plans to major in computer science.

8
Pitt - William Leahy Becker, son of Brian and Christy Becker, Greenville, North Carolina. William will graduate from J.H.
Rose High School where he is co-editor-in-chief of the student newspaper Rampant Lines, president of Spanish Club, and
secretary for Future Business Leaders of America. He also has led a $6,062 Eagle Scout service project for the Humane
Society of Eastern Carolina, served as a senior patrol leader for East Carolina Council National Youth Leadership
Training, and currently serves as an ambassador for the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics online
program. William plans to major in communications or journalism.

Randolph - Kaitlyn Ann Gainey, daughter of Stephen and Kelly Gainey, Asheboro, North Carolina. Kaitlyn will graduate
from Southwestern Randolph High School where she is student body president, Beta Club chapter president, and a
member of the SkillsUSA four-man building team. She also is the Randolph County School System's CTE Presidential
Scholar, a Randolph County Sports Council "Unsung Hero" Award recipient, and a former member of the Student LIFT
(Leadership Information For Tomorrow) program where she completed a self-organized community service project called
"Books for Ramseur." Kaitlyn plans to major in civil engineering.

Sampson - Andy Underwood Jr., son of Andy and Tokesia Underwood, Clinton, North Carolina. Andy will graduate from
Clinton High School where he is the senior class president of Student Government Association, president of DECA, and a
section leader in the marching band. He serves as a juror and bailiff in Teen Court, president of the Delta Gems and
EMBODI programs, and has received academic awards all four years of high school. Andy plans to major in business
management.

Surry - Nydia Cabrera Cabrera, daughter of Floriberto and Maria Cabrera, Mount Airy, North Carolina. Nydia will
graduate from North Surry High School where she is president of the student council and is godmother to her two nieces.
She also volunteers for local events and is a district nominee for the U.S. Presidential Scholars in Career and Technical
Education Program. Nydia plans to major in computer science.

Surry - Nancy García Villa, daughter of Gricelda and Arturo García, Dobson, North Carolina. Nancy will graduate from
Surry Early College High School where she is a Scholar of Global Distinction, student council president, and National
Society of Leadership and Success vice president. She also has been recognized as a LatinxEd 20 Under 20 recipient.
Nancy plans to major in political science.

Surry - Weatherly Reeves, daughter of Leslie and Travis Reeves, Mount Airy, North Carolina. Weatherly will graduate
from North Surry High School where she was Cadet Commander for Air Force JROTC unit NC-811, a National Honor
Society member, and an all-conference member of the varsity soccer team. She is also an aspiring author and has written
a fantasy novel for young adults. She grew her love of writing by attending North Carolina Governor's School East for
English. She enjoys volunteering for Flags for Vets, Give a Kid a Christmas, and the Salvation Army Toy Drive. Weatherly
plans to major in design studies at the College of Design.

Transylvania - Emma Leigh Coye, daughter of Ed Coye and Jessica Alexander, Brevard, North Carolina. Emma will
graduate from Brevard High School where she is student body president, an inaugural co-chairperson of the Student
Wellness Committee, and was co-captain of the cross country team. She also volunteers with the Transylvania County
Youth Council, is a member of the National Honor Society, and has been presented the DAR Good Citizen Award at her
high school. Emma plans to major in mechanical or aerospace engineering.

Union - Aryan Choudhary, son of Smita Thakur and Gautam Choudhary, Waxhaw, North Carolina. Aryan will graduate
from Marvin Ridge High School where he is the president of the Science National Honor Society, historian of Beta Club,
and co-founder and tutor for an SAT/ACT/AP tutoring group. He has been a volunteer for Yes She Rises and is a
swimmer at MSA. Aryan plans to major in biomedical engineering.

Union - Natalie Victoria Meuser, daughter of Nicole and Stefan Meuser, Weddington, North Carolina. Natalie will
graduate from Central Academy of Technology & Arts where she is president of National Honor Society, student body vice
president, and co-captain of the varsity football cheer team. She is also a volunteer at the Novant Health Matthews
Medical Center, an officer of Canine Club, which focuses on helping local animal shelters and rescues, and has received
her AutoCAD certification. Natalie plans to major in biomedical engineering and computer science.

Union - Jonathan Russell, son of Paul and Linda Russell, Waxhaw, North Carolina. Jonathan will graduate from
Cuthbertson High School. He has been involved in Boy Scouts for the past 13 years and serves as the senior patrol
leader of his troop, has served on his high school’s student council for the past four years including as senior class
president, and has served as the president of the Physics Club for the past two years. He has organized efforts in his
community to help the homeless through cleaning train and bus stations in Charlotte, lead the south Charlotte Scouting for
Food effort which collected more than two truckloads of food, and received various honors like Sigma Xi and NC
biotechnology honors for personal research in earth studies. Jonathan plans to major in meteorology.

9
Wake - Esha Agarwal, daughter of Neelu and Abhay Agarwal, Cary, North Carolina. Esha will graduate from William G.
Enloe High School where she is vice president of Key Club, plays for the women's varsity tennis team, and founded
community nonprofit, Tennis4Kiddos. She has been an avid participant and winner of science fairs and competitions since
she was in fourth grade, created provisionally-patented app outSMARTPD which works to diagnose Parkinson's Disease
and support patient empowerment, won the Congressional App Challenge, and has published two scientific papers. Esha
plans to major in biological sciences.

Wake - Luke Anthony Biller, son of Anthony and Lesley Biller, Raleigh, North Carolina. Luke will graduate from home
school. He is captain of a varsity and club soccer team as well as vice president of the National Honor Society. He also
serves as a kindergarten Sunday school teacher at his church. Luke plans to major in biomedical engineering.

Wake - Caroline Elizabeth Farmer, daughter of Charles and Anne Farmer, Cary, North Carolina. Caroline will graduate
from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics where she is the executive director of the Student
Environmental Education Coalition, an officer in the Coalition for Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity, and the recipient of the
Richard Gilder History Prize. She is also a volunteer coach for middle school Science Olympiad and a teacher assistant at
her local theatre. Caroline plans to major in electrical engineering.

Wake - Emma Rae Fornes, daughter of Tim and Melanie Fornes, Apex, North Carolina. Emma will graduate from Apex
High School where she is student body president, National Honor Society co-president, and a senior leader of Apex's
broadcast-journalism program, CougarTV. She also volunteers for Special Theatre Arts Raleigh and is a Durham
Performing Arts Center (DPAC) student ambassador. She is a vocalist/pianist/singer-songwriter and has been selected for
final-round executive producer auditions for ABC's American Idol and NBC's The Voice. Emma plans to major in business
administration or communications.

Wake - Sashank Ganapathiraju, son of Saraswathi Kumar and Kowsalya Devi Ganapathiraju, Cary, North Carolina.
Sashank will graduate from Green Hope High School where he is senior class president, the president of the National
Honor Society, and a captain of the Science Bowl team. He also co-founded and manages his own charity tutoring
organization, the Vidhya Rights Foundation, coaches his middle school's three Science Bowl teams, and is an attorney at
the Wake County Capital Area Teen Court. Sashank plans to major in biology or biomedical engineering.

Wake - Lauren Taylor Giles, daughter of David and Carleen Giles, Wake Forest, North Carolina. Lauren will graduate
from Wake Forest High School where she is the president of DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), the
president of Junior Optimist International Club, and a representative in the student government association. She is also a
member of Lifepointe Church’s Student Leadership Team, the co-creator of a Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign in
her community, and a student of the Wake Forest Career Readiness Academy. Lauren plans to major in biomedical
engineering with a minor in marketing.

Wake - Lavanya Gupta, daughter of Ritu Gupta and Sushil Kumar, Cary, North Carolina. Lavanya will graduate from
Green Level High School, where she is co-founder and co-president of the Science National Honor Society, captain of the
Science Olympiad team, and stage manager for the theatre department. She has been involved in analyzing pandemic
data at the COVID Tracking Project and Piedmont Health, directing branding and outreach strategy as the chief marketing
officer of global nonprofit Kara Tutoring, and advocating for educational equity as a delegate to the Global Youth Institute.
Lavanya plans to major in chemical or biological engineering.

Wake - Chalina Lauraine Morgan-Lopez, daughter of Laura and Dawn Hernandez, is from Raleigh, North Carolina.
Chalina will graduate from Sanderson High School, where she is president of Sanderson's Equity Team, a member of the
Board of Directors at SafeBAE, and captain of her varsity tennis team. Chalina is a youth representative of Wake County
Equity Affairs and has been featured in numerous media outlets including NPR and the New York Times for her anti-
sexual violence work and advocacy for making schools inclusive and representative of all students. Chalina plans to major
in political science.

Wake - Siri Mudunuri, daughter of Raju Mudunuri and Padmavathi Datla, Cary, North Carolina. Siri will graduate from
Athens Drive High School where she is a lead for the Youth Public Health Advisor Program with the North Carolina
Department of Public Health, a president of HOSA, and a community blood drive coordinator who has led four blood
drives and is working to expand the blood drive effort across her county. She also co-led Team Driving Away Cancer to
raise $35,000 in the 2021 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Student of the Year Campaign and helped publish the “One
Year of COVID-19: North Carolina Youth Peer Survey Findings.” Siri plans to major in computer science with a
concentration in computational biology.

10
Wake - Krish Rahul Patel, son of Rahul and Bhavina Patel, Cary, North Carolina. Krish will graduate from Cary High
School, where he is co-president of the Science Olympiad team, a two-time speaker at the Triangle Youth Leadership
Conference, and ranks in the top 1,000 in the USA Computing Olympiad. Krish also founded a multistate chapter of
Codivate, a student-run, student-led nonprofit that has taught more than five hundred individuals the essentials of
programming, and interned at NC State's Game2Learn Lab, a prestigious research opportunity focused on participation in
computing and helping all students become literate in 21st-century computing skills. Krish plans to major in computer
science and statistics.

Wake - Isabel Santana, daughter of Carlos Santana and Tania Lebron, Raleigh, North Carolina. Isabel will graduate from
Rolesville High School where she is captain of the varsity women's tennis team, president of Science National Honor
Society, and vice president of Rolesville's Coalition for Equity. She's also won a Hispanic Heritage Youth award, the
Academic All Conference Award, and is initiating an organization for underprivileged youth interested in STEM.

Wake - Pracheeti Shikarkhane, daughter of Neeraj Shikarkhane and Dipali Karkhanis, Cary, North Carolina. Pracheeti
will graduate from Green Hope High School where she is the CEO of her NASA award-winning startup, SkyeLabs
Innovation Inc., president of the Mu Alpha Theta mathematics honor society, and team captain of the competitive
CyberSecurity team. She is the winner of the International Conrad Challenge, was selected as the youngest top-10
national finalist and first honorable mention in history for NASA iTech, and has been a lead instructor at the TechGirlz
NonProfit for three years. Pracheeti plans to major in computer engineering.

Wake - Chinmay Guru Talikoti, son of Anil and Chandrika Talikoti, Cary, North Carolina. Chinmay will graduate from
William G. Enloe Magnet High School where he is president of History Bowl, Quiz Bowl, and a lead marshal. He has
tutored his peers in Spanish through National Honor Society and has organized numerous events through Key Club.
Chinmay plans to major in computer science.

Wake - Amaya Gabrielle Williams, daughter of Wayne and Clastrola Williams, Morrisville, North Carolina. Amaya will
graduate from Raleigh Charter High School, where she is co-founder and co-president of Two-Steps, a tutoring and
mentoring club, a part of the Tri-M Honor Society, and a member of the National Honor Society. Amaya is Regional Teen
Vice President of the Mid-Atlantic Region of Jack and Jill of America Inc., chair of the North Carolina State Youth Council,
and a Town of Cary Cultural Arts Committee member. Amaya is also an avid volunteer in her community, earning the
Presidential Service Award for the past three years. Amaya plans to major in biochemistry.

Wayne - Isaac Areli Carreño, son of Daniel and Asbel Carreño, Goldsboro, North Carolina. Isaac will graduate from
Wayne School of Engineering where he is president of the Key Club. He volunteers as a tutor at a local middle school,
tutors recent immigrant students, and is currently working on a research project with an epidemiology professor at NC
State University. Isaac plans to major in political science.

Wilson - Toby Snedeker, son of Bonnie and Scott Snedeker, Wilson, North Carolina. Toby will graduate from Fike High
School where he is the captain of the cross country team and co-founder of the school recycling program. He also has
participated in regional math competitions for Fike High School and attended the Governor's School of North Carolina for
mathematics. Toby plans to major in engineering.

PENNSYLVANIA
Delaware - Cassandra Kathleen Hung, daughter of Ed and Meredith Hung, West Chester, Pennsylvania. Cassandra will
graduate from the Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School's University Scholars Program where she is the president of
the National Organization for Rare Disorders Students for Rare Club, section editor for the school newspaper, and
member of the Academic Team. She is also a member of multiple service-oriented committees at her meetinghouse and
was a Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair finalist in 2021. Cassandra plans to major in chemical
engineering.

Montgomery - Ishika Vyas, child of Bipin and Nidhi Vyas, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. Ishika will graduate from Harriton
High School where she is executive editor of the Harriton Banner, founder and officer of HHSBreathe, and officer of
Medical Club. She is also a member of the National Honor Society. Ishika plans to major in biochemistry.

Westmoreland - Myra A. Abbasi, daughter of Waheed and Uzma Abbasi, Murrysville, Pennsylvania. Myra will graduate
from American School Dhahran where she is the founder and president of Room to Read, vice president of the Mu Alpha
Theta mathematics honor society, and an executive member of Habitat for Humanity. Myra also initiated and leads a
tutoring program for local students in her area. She is an active member of the National Honor Society and was recently
recognized for being a National Merit Commended Scholar. Myra plans to major in biological sciences with a possible
minor in neuroscience.

11
SOUTH CAROLINA
Berkeley - Adam Michael Womble, son of Amanda and Michael Womble, Hanahan, South Carolina. Adam will graduate
from Hanahan High School where he is student body president and secretary and community liaison for the National
Honor Society. Adam is also the president of the Royal MB Church Junior Ushers, a member of the Low Country Youth
Services Distinguished Gentlemen's Club, and a member of the Hanahan CyberPatriot Club. Adam plans to major in civil
engineering.

Charleston - Aidan Joseph Gregoire, son of Kevin and Laura Gregoire, Charleston, South Carolina. Aidan will graduate
from Porter-Gaud School where he is the head service leader of Animal and Environmental Programs, captain of the
varsity cross country team, and treasurer of the Computer Science Honor Society. He has volunteered at Habitat for
Humanity and tutored underprivileged children at Meeting Street Academy.

Dorchester - Michael Benjamin Blunt, son of Sam and Mary Blunt, Summerville, South Carolina. Michael will graduate
from Palmetto Scholars Academy where he is president of the National Honor Society, team captain of the Cyber Defense
Team, and project manager of a research project traveling to the International Space Station. He also has won first overall
in three national engineering competitions, presented multiple project proposals to NASA engineers, and is the
valedictorian of Palmetto Scholars Academy's Class of 2022.

TENNESSEE
Shelby - Jayda Simone Murray, daughter of Bryan and Ayanna Murray, Memphis, Tennessee. Jayda will graduate from
Faith Heritage Christian Academy as AP Scholar, TED-Ed Student Talks speaker, and Scholastics Art and Writing Gold
National Medalist whose work has been published in the New York Times. Jayda plans to major in computer science in
games.

Sumner - Amelia Lemmon, daughter of Jeremy and Julie Lemmon, Gallatin, Tennessee. Amelia will graduate from
Station Camp High School where she is student body president, swim team captain, and has been voted “Most Involved.”
She volunteers at Second Harvest Food Bank, serves on the Sumner County Student Leadership Council, and is an
officer on the Tennessee Association of Student Councils executive board. Amelia plans to major in industrial engineering.

TEXAS
Collin - Osarobo Joy Obasuyi, daughter of Benedicta and Martin Obasuyi, Dallas, Texas. Osarobo will graduate from
Bishop Lynch High School where she is president of the Bishop Lynch Medical Society, vice president of the National
English Honor Society, and secretary of the National Honor Society. She has received the National African American
Recognition Program Award and has been a volunteer for the Best Buddies national organization throughout her high
school career. Osarobo plans to major in biomedical engineering.

VIRGINIA
Chesterfield - Diya Ram Mohan, daughter of Vidya Kozhukunnon and Ram Mohan Kottayil, Chester, Virginia. Diya will
graduate from Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School where she is co-president of the French National Honor Society and
Bring Change 2 Mind, and co-captain of the debate club. She volunteered at her elementary school's summer school
program, teaches middle school students debate, and is a National Merit Scholar Semifinalist. Diya plans to major in
computer science.

Roanoke - Griffin David Kauffman, son of Richard and Betsy Kauffman, Roanoke, Virginia. Griffin will graduate from
Patrick Henry High School and the Roanoke Valley Governor’s School where he is captain of the men’s varsity tennis
team, student council association ambassador, and has a senior internship at Virginia Tech Transportation Institute
through Roanoke Valley Governor School's Mentorship Program. He also is the Missions Coordinator at Saint John
Lutheran and has served on five mission trips across the United States, has received the Roanoke Valley Governor’s
School Determined Scholar Award, and has received first place and the Reserve Grand Award in the regional science fair
for his renewable energy project. He plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Stafford - Norah Iona Sutton, daughter of Adam and Leigh Sutton, Fredericksburg, Virginia. Norah will graduate from
Stafford Senior High School where she is vice president of the Science National Honor Society, a varsity athlete in both
swimming and cross country, and the secretary of SkillsUSA, a career and technical organization. She has been an active
member of Girl Scouts for the past 13 years during which she earned her Gold Award. She also volunteers as a buddy by
including students with disabilities in her school community. Norah plans to major in chemical engineering.

12
WASHINGTON
Kitsap - Lauren Heinzelman, daughter of Jennifer and Keith Heinzelman, Bainbridge Island, Washington. Lauren will
graduate from Bainbridge High School where she is co-captain of the sailing team. She has helped to raise over $35,000
for the sailing team by founding the Ski Swap fundraiser. She has also volunteered over 250 hours at the Seattle
Aquarium as a Youth Ocean Advocate, completed research in sustainability with an international team, and is a two-time
U.S. National Archery Team member, ranking second in her division nationally. Lauren plans to major in environmental
engineering.

13