Regeneron Scholars Include Two Half Hollow Hills Students

Half Hollow Hills High School East students Rinni Bhansali and Matthew Weltmann have been named scholars in the 2019 Regeneron Science Talent Search (Regeneron STS), the oldest high school competition in math and science in the United States. As scholars, they will each receive a $2,000 award for themselves and their school, and be eligible to be chosen as finalists in the program on January 23, 2019.

Bhansali submitted a research project that created a model for the spread of diseases and information across social networks, while Weltmann’s research project analyzed a breast cancer drug that stops cell division to see if it increased cell invasion.

“Rinni and Matt’s projects address real world problems while applying exceptional research skills, commitment to academics and innovative thinking,” said Dr. Michael Lake, academic research director at Half Hollow Hills.” They have demonstrated an exceptional degree of hard work and passion for discovery, and we are so proud of their recognition as Regeneron Scholars.”

Only 300 scholars were selected from a field of nearly 2,000 applicants that hailed from 601 high schools in 48 states, two U.S. territories and eligible students living in seven other countries. Forty finalists will be chosen from that group to compete in March at the finals in Washington, D.C., where they will contend for more than $1.8 million in awards from Regeneron.

“Regeneron congratulates this year’s Science Talent Search scholars, who have applied deep curiosity and rigorous research skills to the important scientific questions of today,” said Hala Mirza, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications and Citizenship at Regeneron. “These students are the future leaders of tomorrow and are using innovative thinking to improve our world. We hope their achievements will inspire other young people to engage with STEM.”

An education-oriented community with high academic expectations, the Half Hollow Hills Central School District is located in a residential area of 50,000 people in the central part of Long Island, approximately 40 miles from New York City. Providing for the education of almost 8,000 students, the school district has five elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools. Half Hollow Hills High Schools are fully accredited by the New York State Department of Education. The district is committed to providing all students with opportunities to excel in academics, athletics and the arts.