St. Andrew’s seniors named STEM champs

Two members of the St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Class of 2025 have been named National STEM Champions. 

Seniors Celia Lane and Pranav Reddy submitted original research to EXPLR’s National STEM Challenge and were selected as the only two champions from Mississippi. They will be recognized at the National STEM Festival in Washington, DC in March. 

“Celia and Pranav are great examples of students who have a passion for science and use that drive to learn more about their respective fields of interest. Their success shows the dedication they have towards research and advancing the scope of scientific knowledge; we're all extremely proud of the work they've accomplished these past few years,” said Science Department Chair Marks McWhorter. 

Lane and Reddy’s submitted research is part of St. Andrew’s John D. Bower INSTAR program, which is designed for Upper School students interested in gaining experience in scientific research. The ultimate goal of the program is for students to collaborate with and learn from those directly involved in research in the greater community. As students develop, they begin actively working with professors and medical professionals across disciplines to give them a greater glimpse into the scientific field.

“The INSTAR program requires research at a level most students don’t experience until college or even until graduate school,” McWhorter said. “INSTAR is a good training ground for students who think they might like to pursue scientific research at the college level or as a career, or for any student who is inquisitive and motivated to find the answer to a scientific question.”

INSTAR equips students not only with scientific skills, but also with the work ethic, time management skills, and discipline that make them excellent candidates for university science programs or research internships.