The Willie Hutch Jones Science Fair proved to be a resounding success, marking another milestone in its journey. The event, which had outgrown its previous venue, found a new home at the Science and Math Complex, a move met with great enthusiasm. This new location provided ample space for the growing number of participants and allowed for additional activities, such as attending presentations at the Buffalo State Planetarium during judging periods.

Students from diverse backgrounds, ranging from grades 3 to 12 and representing schools across Western New York, showcased their scientific prowess through poster and oral presentations. Their projects, spanning a wide array of topics, were intriguing and inventive and demonstrated a remarkable breadth of knowledge.

Over 25 distinguished judges, who spanned varied scientific and professional backgrounds, volunteered their time and expertise to engage and mentor the young scholars, attentively and fairly judging them and providing teachable moments. 

With over 130 registrants, both individuals and groups, the organizers faced the challenge of accommodating everyone while maintaining the integrity of the award program. As a result, the decision was made to split the award ceremonies into two separate events to ensure each participant received the recognition they deserved.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Douglas L. Hoston, Jr., captivated the audience, particularly the young attendees, who are often the most challenging to engage. Dr. Houston left a lasting impression, offering insights and inspiration to all present. Furthermore, the master of ceremonies, Claudine Ewing from WGRZ TV2, once again proved to be an invaluable asset, skillfully guiding the proceedings and ensuring a seamless flow throughout both ceremonies.

As the curtains closed on another successful edition of the Willie Hutch Jones STEAM Fair, it was time to recognize the outstanding achievements of this year’s participants. 

 

WHJESP 9th Annual Steam Fair Awardees

 

Place	Elementary Individual	Elementary Group
First	Ellie Trippany	Aisha Ahmed, Hadeeqa Rahman,
Second	Bennett Frajdofer	Noah Bisrat, Ayaan Rahim, Joseph Woods
Third	Aisha Biobaku
	Middle School	Middle School Group
First	Mohammad Assim Khan	Brianna Cook, Se’arlait Frazier, Shianne Fraizer
Second	Havailah Nazario
Third	Da’Rai Scott
	High School Individual	High School Group
First	Poppy Miranos	Hasan Jamil and Emmett King
Second	Faith Floyd	Alejandro Rios Velazquez, Nam T. Ho, Irfan Mohamad
Third	Sanjida Kalam	Rida Chaudhury and Samina Islam

Prizes include an all-expenses paid trip to WHJESP STEM Excursion in Cleveland, OH, day trips to the Strong Museum of Play, Explore and More tickets, and Amazon gift cards. 

None of this would have been possible without the support from our sponsors – The WHJESP would like to thank the following organizations for their continued support for our event and the academic community that benefits from our event: The Office of Councilman Joeseph Golombek, Jr., M &T Bank Foundation, Highmark, Ingram Micro Company, Five Star Bank, Phi Omega & Phi Epsilon Chapters of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., TMP Technologies, Inc., Wegmans and Media Sponsors: WGRZ TV2, Power 93.7, Power 96.5 Senator Kennedy’s Office, Assured Partners, Laux Sporting Goods Inc., Herb Courtney & Family  and the Law Offices of John V. Elmore.