Dunham Middle School scientists were big winners at the Region VII Science Fair held February 6, 2018 at LSU. All four Dunham students, competing in the junior division, received awards for their science projects.

Maddie Benton ’22 was the overall winner for her project, “How Vessel Size Affects Bacterial Growth,’’ which also captured 1st place in the Microbiology category.

Patrick Murphy ’22 placed 2nd in the Microbiology category with his project, “Teenagers vs. Healthcare Workers: Whose Phones Contain More Bacteria?”

Sarah Brady ’22, won 1st place in the Physics and Astronomy category with her project, “Kinetic Energy and Penetration.”  

Caroline Latuso ’22 received 4th place in the Biomedical and Health Sciences for her project, “Every Breath You Take.”

These young scientists also received special recognition for their work. Benton was one of two students who received the U.S Air Force Award, given to recognize and encourage students who are conducting research in areas of interest to Air Force.

Benton and Murphy each received the Naval Science Award, given by the U.S Navy and  Marine Corps to four students whose projects are considered to demonstrate excellence in science and engineering.

Benton, Murphy and Brady were selected as Broadcom Masters nominees. Broadcom MASTERS   (Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering for Rising Stars) is the premier science and engineering competition for middle school students. The top 10% of 6th, 7th and 8th grade competitors at science fairs around the country enter a select group of students  invited  to enter this prestigious STEM competition.  

Benton, Murphy and Brady now advance to the Louisiana Science and Engineering Fair to be held March 19-20 at LSU.