White Plains High School student researchers earn top honors at regional science fair

Five White Plains High School students earned awards at this year’s Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF), standing out in one of the most competitive high school research events in the country.

The annual fair featured more than 800 students from over 45 schools across the Lower Hudson Valley and is recognized as the largest regional high school science fair in the nation.

Nine student researchers from WPHS were sent to the competition, with more than half returning with honors across a variety of disciplines, including behavioral science, engineering and plant science.

“This is an incredible accomplishment, and I am so proud of every one of our students for their hard work, dedication and professionalism throughout the research process,” said science research teacher Kimberly Fleming.

• Francis Fokoue-Nkoutche earned first place in the Engineering category, along with a $100 prize sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. He also received the $100 Transforming Lives Award, which recognizes projects aimed at improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. It was donated by the Abinanti family. Francis also won the New York Invents Award, which is presented to students whose projects are designed to “solve real-world problems.” It includes an opportunity to present his work at the New York Invention Convention in Albany on May 2.
• Eliana Lieber, salutatorian of the class of 2026, placed second in the Plant Science category, earning a $75 prize sponsored by Consolidated Edison.
• Olivia Tuzel received fourth place in Engineering, with a $25 award sponsored by Leason Ellis Intellectual Property Attorneys.
• In Behavioral Science, Vivi Nguyen received the American Psychological Association Award for “Outstanding Research in Psychological Science,” which includes a certificate and a one-year membership to the association.
• Deya Allen earned the Excellence in Behavioral Science Award and a $25 prize from the Westchester County Psychological Association.

In addition to the award winners, all nine students were recognized for their participation and contributions to the highly competitive event.

“Their achievements reflect not only their individual effort, but also the support of our families, staff and administration,” Ms. Fleming said. “Thank you for encouraging these young scientists as they continue to grow and explore.”

The Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair provides students with the opportunity to conduct original research and present their findings to professional scientists, fostering skills in inquiry, innovation and real-world problem-solving. 

For more information about the fair, visit www.wesef.org.