Miami, Fl, February 25, 2011 – Addressing the need for U.S. future scientists and recognizing student scientific leadership, St. Thomas University’s School of Science, Technology and Engineering Management held its first Regional Science Fair February 25 at its Carnival Cruise Lines Building. About 200 local high school students from public, private and Catholic schools participated, had their science projects judged and were eligible to win tech prizes in high demand.
The corporate community was also involved as well as high school teachers who have significantly promoted student participation and interest in science. A daylong agenda of informative and stimulating scientific activities for students, which included complimentary roundtrip, chartered bus transportation from schools, breakfast and lunch took place. One important aspect is the fact that there were no fees associated with the participation of science projects at the fair. As early as January 2011, the School partnered with Miami Dade Public School System District One, with Dr. Perla Tabares-Hantman chairing the project, and The Miami Herald, calling on high school students with outstanding science and math talent to enroll in the competition. The all-day event featured a panel of distinguished businessmen, faculty and other science fellows who served as judges. Joining the new School of Science Dean, Dr. Wim Steelant, are Navarro Pharmacy’s Jose Navarro, a St. Thomas University Trustee. Today Navarro is a 31-store chain with sales in excess of $380,000,000 and is at the top of the industry based on sales productivity standards. Navarro Discount Pharmacies is one of the Top 25 Drug Chains in the Nation (CDR 2008). Healthcare administration veteran, Hialeah Hospital C.E.O. Ralph Aleman, is also integrating the judges’ panel.
This year’s winners were:
1st Place Thomas Nanni, Christopher Columbus, awarded an Ipad
2nd Place A group project headed by Jose Veliz, Christopher Columbus, awarded a laptop.
3rd Place Mark Maguire, Christopher Columbus, awarded an Ipod Touch
Projects with Honorable Mentions:
Group project headed by Jordan Carrasco, Dade Christian Schools
Eric Ceballos, Christopher Columbus
Josue Perez, Miami Lakes Educational Center
