On May 24th, 2023, The Bronx Science Foundation hosted the Bronx Science Student Research Celebration Program, which showcased the graduating Class of 2023’s Research projects. Students from all research departments, including Biology, Math and Computer Science, Social Science, and Physical Science, lined up their works at the 583 Park Avenue venue to speak with parents, teachers, mentors, alumni, and peers alike, on the work they’ve done over the past three years in the research program. Among the projects, students were recognized for success in various prestigious competitions and fairs, including the Society for Science’s Regeneron STS, Regeneron ISEF, Terra NYC Stem Fair, JSHS (Junior Science and Humanities Symposium), and more.

Gallery • 9 Photos

Adrian Perez ’23 presenting on embryo lineages.

It was an exciting event that featured an array of delicious food and drinks and offered a preview of what professional gatherings would look like for the many future scientists and entrepreneurs in the room. Students spoke with various alumni about their careers in science research and heard from field trailblazers such as Dr. Ayanna Thomas ’92, who was interviewed by Daniel Addoquaye ’23 and Kiele Morgan ’23.

Dr. Thomas is a Professor and Dean of Research for Arts and Sciences at Tufts University and served as the Research Gala’s 2023 Keynote Speaker. Her presentation, “Breaking the Barrier of Test Anxiety,” was a captivating and thought-provoking analysis of the learning process for students accustomed to high-anxiety learning environments. Her conclusion, studying through repeated practice testing proved that students develop confidence and lower fear levels towards testing if they are allowed to take similar tests in preparation. Dr. Thomas’ influential work in the pedagogical and psychological fields, specifically regarding Memory recall and Aging, has been cited in over 2,000 scientific papers. Her full presentation can be found in the video embedded above.

Dr. Thomas is a Professor and Dean of Research for Arts and Sciences at Tufts University and served as the Research Gala’s 2023 Keynote Speaker. Her presentation, “Breaking the Barrier of Test Anxiety,” was a captivating and thought-provoking analysis of the learning process for students accustomed to high-anxiety learning environments.