April 1, 2025
Bangor High School STEM students dazzled at this year's Maine State Science Fair, culminating in impressive accolades that showcase their hard work and dedication to scientific exploration. With numerous awards and scholarships, the event not only highlighted the students' academic achievements but also reflected the vibrant spirit of inquiry that thrives within our school community.
Among the standout highlights was Sofie Rueter, whose project, “Improving the Effectivity of Nitrate Removal in Biosand Filters Using N. oculata,” earned her the prestigious Grand Award, sponsored by the Maine Technology Institute. Sofie will now move on to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair held in Columbus, Ohio, in May.
This year’s Maine State Science Fair opened the doors to significant educational opportunities, with several scholarships awarded to talented individuals.
University of Maine: Full-tuition scholarships, renewable for up to four years, were awarded to Emme Nguyen and Bandon Nguyen.
University of New England: $5,000 scholarships, renewable for up to four years, were granted to Paige Sornberger and Daniel Tarr.
University of Maine’s College of Engineering and Computing: A $2,500 one-time scholarship was awarded to Zafir Bashir.
University of Maine’s School of Forest Resources: A $2,000 one-time scholarship went to Paige Sornberger.
Category Awards: Spotlight on Excellence
The category awards celebrated the diverse talents of Bangor High School’s students across various scientific disciplines:
Animal Sciences – Physiology: 2nd Place – Asa Corey
Biomedical & Health Sciences: 1st Place – Emme Nguyen; 3rd Place – Brayon Nguyen
Chemistry & Materials: 1st Place – Zafir Bashir
Engineering – Assistive & Smart Technology: 1st Place – Brandon Nguyen; 2nd Place – Alexander Busko
Environmental Science – Climate & Weather: 1st Place – Paige Sornberger
Environmental Science – Water Quality: 1st Place – Samuel Martin
Microbiology: 1st Place – Sofie Rueter
Special Awards Acknowledgement
In addition to category prizes, students received special recognitions from esteemed organizations:
Association for Women Geoscientists: McKenzie Vorenkamp
JAX Future Innovator: Kai Grosjean and Abby Caron
United States Air Force: Conner Hickson
Yale Science and Engineering Association: Emme Nguyen
As we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants, awardees, and their mentors, we also recognize the invaluable support from families and the community. These accomplishments are not just individual triumphs but reflections of teamwork, perseverance, and a passion for learning. #wearebangor
Click here to see a list of all state winners
Click here to see a slide show of all of the student's posters