Two students from Grayson County and one from Butler County were among 83 students who graduated from The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science at WKU.
Gatton Academy’s 18th graduating class included Elli Grace Hester and Eldon Williams, both of Grayson County, and Dastin Scott, of Butler County.
Both Williams and Scott were recognized for “completing two semesters of research with a research outcome that was presented to a professional audience after being accepted through a vetted process, or four semesters of participation in STEM+ and documenting 60 hours of service,” according to the school.
The Class of 2025 represented 39 counties from across Kentucky.
Superlatives from the Class of 2025:
- 15 members of the class were selected as National Merit semi-finalists.
- 65 percent of graduates participated in faculty-sponsored research during their Gatton Academy experience.
- 10 graduates completed the STEM+ Critical Languages sequences in either Mandarin Chinese or Russian.
- 7 students were named Kentucky Academy of Science KJAS delegates and three advanced to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).
- 1 student placed in the Top 300 of the Regeneron Science Talent Search.
- 4 graduates won U.S. Department of State National Security Language Initiative for Youth scholarships.
- 2 graduates were awarded Questbridge full scholarships to top colleges.
- 1 graduate was named a Horatio Alger Kentucky State Scholar and another a Goldwater Scholar.
Dr. Julia Roberts, Executive Director of The Gatton Academy and Director of The Center for Gifted Studies, applauded the Class of 2025’s accomplishments at the graduation held last month.
“Gatton Academy graduates, you have created an exceptional record during your two years as you have completed high school and launched your college career simultaneously. You have engaged in research, presenting at conferences and sharing your research on campus, as well as at conferences across the country.
“Although you are being recognized as high school graduates today, you are atypical high school graduates. Congratulations to each of you!”
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
