Ossining Science Research Students Win 33 WESEF Awards and Advance Two Grand Finalists to International Fair

Ossining Pride was on full display at the Regeneron Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF) where students earned an impressive 33 awards. Leading the way were Grand Finalists Eric Huang and Robert Kang, whose outstanding projects ranked among the top 20 in the competition.

This is the second wave of exciting news for Ossining’s Science Research program. In January, Summerville Beckford and Natalie Partridge were named Regeneron Scholars in the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2026.

WESEF, the largest science fair in the country, was held at Somers High School on March 14. Over 800 students competed in 22 categories include Animal Sciences, Behavioral & Social Sciences, Biochemistry, Cellular & Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences, Medicine & Health Sciences, Microbiology, Physics & Astronomy, Plant Sciences, and various engineering fields.

Ossining Grand Finalists

Eric Huang: Real-time Detection of Particles in Peritoneal Dialysate Using Digital Inline Holography and Machine Learning

Robert Kang: Improving Adolescents’ Mental Health through Contemporary Worship Music: An Interventional Approach

“Congratulations to our amazing students,” said Science Research teacher Valerie Holmes. “Your success highlights the power of curiosity and hard work in scientific research.”

“The entire community is so proud of your hard work and perseverance,” said Science Research teacher Ariadne Prior-Grosch. “You’ve truly earned this moment through your dedication and resilience.”

“We can’t wait to see the problems you solve and the future you help build,” said Lori Morton, PhD, Senior Vice President, Research, at Regeneron, who emceed WESEF. “The skills you formed will endure.”

Grand Finalists Eric and Robert win an all-expenses-paid trip to attend the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair in Phoenix, AZ, in May, where they will compete for more awards with 1800 students from 80 different countries.

Ossining students earned 31 other awards including:

Second Place

Owen Brennen

Shanzay Khan

Third Place

Summerville Beckford

Marisol Berrezueta

Eliana Jacobs

Tyrzah Mkandawire

Natalie Partridge

Mitchell Pavelchek

Fourth Place

Ty'Asia Carver

Ayessa Estacio

Sofia Kringas

Elizabeth Minella

Frank Murphy II

Plus, 18 Ossining students also received Special Awards.