Ruston, LA - The Science and Technology Education Center (SciTEC) at Louisiana Tech University has been awarded an $11,450 grant to host the 2024-2025 Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS). Sponsored by the Department of Defense, the JSHS aims to empower high school students to conduct and present original science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research, providing them with valuable experience and exposure to higher education and STEM careers.

The symposium, set to take place next month, will bring high school students, teachers, and parents to Louisiana Tech for a research showcase. Students will present their research, compete for scholarships, and explore STEM career opportunities.

“The goal of JSHS is to inspire the next generation of innovators by providing a platform for high school students to showcase their original research,” Chris Campbell, regional director of Louisiana Tech’s JSHS, said. “By engaging students in real-world STEM challenges, we’re reinforcing Louisiana Tech’s long-standing commitment to excellence in STEM education at every level.”

Dr. John Doucet, dean of the College of Sciences and Technology at Nicholls State University, credits his early participation in JSHS as a pivotal moment in his career journey when he competed in 1978.

“Participating in the Louisiana and National JSHS helped me realize that a big career in science was possible, even for a boy from a small fishing village in the coastal marshes of Louisiana,” Doucet said.

The grant will enable SciTEC to enhance student engagement in STEM and strengthen Louisiana Tech’s connections with future scientists and researchers. Faculty, staff, and students from the University will serve as mentors and judges, offering guidance and feedback to participants.

“The Tech community has an opportunity to actively shape the future of science and innovation through mentoring, judging, and networking with students from around the state as they present their research at the symposium,” Campbell added. “Many of these high school students could be the future scientists, researchers, mathematicians, and engineers educated right here at our university.”

The impact of the symposium will also extend to the broader Ruston community. Students, parents, and teachers will have the opportunity to visit campus and experience the city’s hospitality, driving local tourism and business engagement.

Cameron Hall, Caddo Magnet High School teacher and Louisiana Tech graduate, emphasized the lasting impact JSHS has on students.

“JSHS has always been a great experience for my students,” Hall said. “It is the only competition in the state that allows students to lead a symposium. It also has fantastic scholarships and the opportunity to network with other young scientists at nationals.”

Student competitors will receive expert feedback on their presentations which will build confidence in pursuing higher education and STEM careers.

“A big part of the symposium is having students here to tour our campus and labs to see what Louisiana Tech has to offer,” Campbell said. “Ruston will be a part of that experience as well, with students, parents, and teachers visiting our idyllic college town.”

For more information on how to participate or support the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, contact Chris Campbell at ctc@latech.edu or visit https://www.jshs.org/.