Awards and Scholarships
SECTION AWARDS
Description: Certificates are given for the best student research papers presented in competition at the annual VJAS Symposium. Certificates for First, Second, Third, and up to three (3) Honorable Mention Places may be awarded in each of the following categories. Not all awards are given in each category.
Categories:
Middle School (Grades 7 and 8)
Animal & Human Sciences
Chemical Science
Computational Biology
Ecology & Earth Sciences
Engineering & Technology
Human Behavior
Mathematics: Patterns & Relationships
Microbiology
Physical Science & Astronomy
Plant Science
High School (Grades 9 – 12)
Botany
Chemistry
Computational Biology
Engineering
Environmental & Earth Science
Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling
Medicine & Health
Microbiology & Cell Biology
Physics & Astronomy
Psychology
Statistical Analysis & Inferences
Zoology
When there are multiple sections in a category, awards will be given in each category section.
Procedures: Papers chosen for presentation will be judged in the sections of each category by the section judges. These judges will evaluate both the research paper and the oral presentation at the research symposium for the final selection of First, Second, Third, and Honorable Mention winners. The decision of these judges is final. Please note that students/teachers/sponsors/parents or anyone else may not contact the judges before, during, or after the Research Symposium;, doing so will result in disqualification.
Criteria: The criteria for these awards appear as the points considered by the judges on the Judge’s Evaluation Form.
BEST OF CATEGORY AWARDS
These awards are given to the best project in certain categories. If there are multiple sections, the VJAS Chair and/or the VJAS Director have the right to decide whether a) the two (or more) section judges meet together and decide on one final project for the Best of Category Award OR b) receive all first place papers from sections and let the Honor Awards Committee/Judges decide the winning project for the Best of Category Award.
VAS BOTANY AWARD
Description: Given by the Botany Section of the VAS for outstanding research presented in a Botany section of the VJAS.
Procedure: The section judges of Botany will select the best Botany paper to receive this award.
RODNEY C. BERRY CHEMISTRY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in the field of chemistry.
Procedure: The section judges of Chemistry will select the best Chemistry paper to receive this award.
VIRGINIA PENINSULA ENGINEERS ENGINEERING AWARD
Description: A certificate is given for the best paper in the field of Engineering by the Virginia Peninsula Engineers.
Procedure: The section judges of Engineering will select the best Engineering paper to receive this award.
ANN M. HANCOCK CELLULAR BIOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given to the best paper in cellular biology. This award is given in memory of Ann Hancock, who retired from the Hanover County Public Schools.
Procedure: The section judges of Microbiology and Cell Biology will select the best Cellular Biology paper to receive this award.
MATHEMATICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in mathematics.
Procedure: The section judges of Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling will select the best Mathematics paper to receive this award.
PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in physics and astronomy.
Procedure: The section judges of Physics and Astronomy will select the best Physics and Astronomy paper to receive this award.
PSYCHOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in psychology.
Procedure: The section judges of Psychology will select the best Psychology paper(s).
STATISTICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in statistics.
Procedure: The section judges of Statistical Analysis & Inferences will select the best Statistics paper to receive this award.
VABE ZOOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in Zoology. The Virginia Association of Biological Educators supports this award.
Procedure: The section judges of Zoology will select the best Zoology paper to receive this award.
SPECIAL INTEREST AWARDS
Special Interest Awards must be applied for before the VJAS Research Symposium. Only papers accepted for presentation are eligible, so students must wait until notified of acceptance before applying. Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform by the Symposium registration date. Follow the instructions on the form and those below carefully.
Note: If no qualified papers meeting the standards of the award(s) are received, it (they) will not be given.
Directions for submitting Special Interest Award applications:
Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform after acceptance to the Symposium. Applications must be received by February 21.
A student must present their paper at the meeting to be eligible for these Special Interest Awards. There is no appeal process for these decisions.
ROSCOE HUGHES GENETICS AWARD
Description: Given to an outstanding paper in the field of Genetics. It is given in memory of Dr. Roscoe D. Hughes , who formed the “Department of Biology and Genetics” in 1938 in the Medical College of Virginia’s School of Pharmacy, later to become part of VCU. In the 1960s, the Virginia Academy of Sciences, led by Dr. Hughes, vigorously lobbied the Governor and the General Assembly to establish the Science Museum of Virginia finally.
Procedure: The selection of the winning papers is made by the Roscoe Hughes Genetics Award judges based on the written paper.
CANCER RESEARCH AWARDS
Description: Given by the American Cancer Society for outstanding research relevant to cancer studies based on the written paper.
Procedure: Selection of the winning papers is made by the Cancer Research Award judges based on the written paper
DR. AND MRS. PRESTON H. LEAKE AWARD IN APPLIED CHEMISTRY
Description: Given to the paper that shows in some way how chemicals, chemical principles, or chemistry have been used or might be used to enhance or even save lives - ways chemistry may be used to provide better things for better living.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Dr. and Mrs. Preston H. Leake Award in Applied Chemistry judges based on the written paper
SMITH SHADOMY INFECTIOUS DISEASES AWARD
Description: Given to commemorate Dr. Smith Shadomy by the Virginia Chapter of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases to the paper that evidences outstanding research in the field of infectious diseases.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Infectious Disease Award judges based on the written paper.
SPELEOLOGICAL SOCIETY AWARD
Description: Given by the Richmond Area Speleological Society for outstanding research addressing karst or topics related to speleology (bats, caves, carbonate geology, paleoenvironments, limestone fossils, sinkholes, etc.).
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Speleology Society Award judges based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (VMNH) AWARD
Description: Presented by VMNH in recognition of significant contributions in the study and interpretation of Virginia’s natural heritage.
Procedures: The winning paper is selected by a representative of the Friends of the VMNH based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA SEA GRANT COLLEGE PROGRAM AWARD
Description: Given by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program for outstanding marine or coastal research.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program Award judges based on the written paper.
GAMMA SIGMA DELTA AWARD
Virginia Tech Chapter of the Honor Society of Agriculture
Description: Given to a student in recognition of excellence in research dealing with the application of new technologies and/or concepts in agriculture, forestry, or veterinary medicine.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Gamma Sigma Delta Award judges based on the written paper.
DR. JEROME PARSONS AWARD FOR CLINICAL DERMATOLOGY
Description: Given to a student in recognition of the paper with the most significant contribution to the study of Dermatology.
D. VJAS HONOR AWARDS
These are the highest awards for the Virginia Junior Academy of Science. Special panels of honor judges evaluate the projects and determine the awards. Criteria for selection include:
Middle School Honor Awards for the Best Projects
DOROTHY KNOWLTON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in life sciences, computational biology, and earth sciences. This is given in honor of Dorothy Knowlton, the former Science Coordinator of Arlington County, who was instrumental in advancing experimental design with the science curriculum.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Animal and Human Sciences, Ecology and Earth Science, Human Behavior, Plant Science, and Microbiology middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
JOYCE K PETERSON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in the physical sciences. This is given in honor of Joyce Peterson, an outstanding teacher in the Arlington County Schools.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Chemical Science, Engineering & Technology, and Physical Science & Astronomy and Mathematics middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
High School Honor Awards for Best Projects
JONES/ELLETT AWARD, Grade 12
Description: Given to the individual senior (12th grade) student presenting the best project.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the seniors (12th graders) who placed first in a high school section. The winner is given a certificate.
Criteria:
VJAS DELEGATES TO AJAS, GRADES 9-11, Sponsored by VAS
Description: The top four research projects by individual or team student projects in grades 9-11.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the honorees from among the students (grades 9-11) who won first place in a senior high section. The winner is the first-ranked project. Alternates are the second-, third-, and fourth-ranked projects.
Attendance at American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS):
The AJAS experience, referring to the American Junior Academy of Science, is a national honor society recognizing outstanding high school student researchers in the United States. It's an annual event held in conjunction with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) meeting. The experience allows students to interact with leading scientists, engage in hands-on activities, and present their research. It emphasizes mentorship and collaboration over competition, fostering a community of young scientists.
Winners receive a certificate and an invitation to represent VJAS at the annual meeting of the American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS) and to present a poster. Students who represent the Commonwealth of Virginia must attend all activities and house with the students (if applicable).
When VJAS/VAS finances permit, cash awards are given to each individual or a team to help defray expenses. The cash award will be the same for an individual or team, so if a team is selected, they need to determine who will represent the team or provide local funding for the other team members. The top four papers are ranked by the judges, and VAS/VJAS will provide cash awards in this order when VAS/VJAS finances permit. VAS/VJAS will attempt to fully cover the winner’s expenses, followed by the alternates.
ERTLE THOMPSON AJAS FELLOWSHIPS MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT AWARD, Grades 9-11
Description: The Ertle Thompson Memorial Endowment Award is established to honor Dr. Ertle Thompson, a long-term leader of VJAS and a former president of the VAS. When financial circumstances allow, these awards will be presented annually to the winner(s) selected as the VJAS Delegate(s) to the AJAS. The purpose of the funds is to help support attendance at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Junior Academy of Science.
Procedure: The winning students selected as the VJAS Delegates to the VJAS will also receive this award. If a student does not attend AJAS, then it will be transferred to another student.
Award for Student’s School Sponsor
DR. R. DEAN DECKER HONORARIUM AWARD
Description: The Dr. R. Dean Decker Honorarium Award will go to the teacher/sponsor of the one top student winner of the VAS Best Research Award. The money can be used as long as it is related to the attendance at the AJAS meeting. Guidelines and procedures for the recipients will follow later.
Procedure: The teacher/sponsor of students who receive the VAS Best Research Awards will receive this award.
Award for Outstanding Service by Students
VIRGINIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCE HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
Description: A certificate and one year’s membership, without cost, in the Virginia Academy of Science, including a subscription to the Virginia Journal of Science, will be awarded.
Procedure: A club sponsor, any VJAS Committee member, VJAS Leader, or a member of the VAS may make Nominations. Nominations and supporting materials will be sent to the VJAS Director before the Research Symposium. The award is based upon one or more of the following criteria. The VJAS Committee selects the winner(s).
Criteria:
VJAS Student Leadership Award in Honor of the memory of Jo Ann B. Neely, mother of Deborah L. Neely-Fisher
Description: The VJAS Student Leadership Fund Award is established to support, when financial circumstances allow, the student officers of the VJAS who play an integral role not only in representing Virginia students but also in communicating information about the VJAS. These awards will be presented annually to the winner(s) selected as the senior student officers of the VJAS. It supports the positive influence and skill set embodied by the memory of Jo Ann B. Neely, which she strove to instill in others.
Procedure: The winning senior student(s) officer(s) selected as the VJAS Leadership will receive money that will support their education after high school graduation. The VJAS Director will work with the Associate VJAS Director and VAS/VJAS Chair to establish the annual need. This money does not follow the 5% rule, and varying amounts can be pulled as needed.
Awards for Outstanding Service by Adults
VJAS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Description: A special certificate is presented to a person for exceptionally outstanding service to the VJAS, and public recognition is given at the Research Symposium. This is the most prestigious award that the VJAS gives.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when the time of service devoted to the VJAS and its aims is deemed exceptionally outstanding and distinguished.
VAS AWARD FOR DEDICATED SERVICE TO VJAS
Description: Highest service award of the Junior Academy. This award recognizes a past VJAS officer or VJAS member who has continued to provide support as a volunteer to the Junior Academy even after high school completion.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when recognition is deserved through outstanding and distinguished support.
VAS Franklin D. Kizer Teacher Development Fund Awards
The following three VAS-VJAS awards are supported by the Franklin D. Kizer Fund. The purpose of the Fund is to develop and encourage Virginia Science Teachers. The Fund was established by Art Burke and Virginia Ellett in honor of “Doc” Kizer, past State Science Superintendent, Virginia Department of Education, and first President (1952-53) of the Virginia Association of Science Teachers. Its corpus was derived from a transfer of funds to the Academy that constituted the remainder of monies used for the annual state science teachers’ conference when that conference ceased. VAS members Frank Kizer, Art Burke, and Virginia Ellett were among that conference’s leaders and coordinators. An individual may not receive each of the following awards more than once.
It is not required that any of the following awards be made each year.
The Franklin D. Kizer Science Teacher of Tomorrow Award
This award recognizes an outstanding Virginia science teacher and provides an opportunity for professional development through attendance at the annual VAST meeting.
Criteria:
The Franklin D. Kizer Fund Distinguished Service Award in Honor of E. C. L. Miller
This award recognizes the exceptional contributions to VJAS of a STEM teacher.
Criteria:
The Franklin D. Kizer Professional Development Stipend
This award will be presented to a teacher of the VJAS Best Research Paper Award winner.
Criteria:
SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships must be applied for before the VJAS Research Symposium via the Reviewr platform. Only students whose papers are accepted for presentation are eligible for scholarships.
Only students who present their papers at the meeting may be awarded a scholarship.
Application is made by submitting the application form via the Reviewr platform.
SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIPS. Special panels of judges at the VJAS Research Symposium determine these scholarships. There is no appeal process for these decisions.
SCHOLARSHIPS PROVIDED BY THE VIRGINIA ENVIRONMENTAL ENDOWMENT
The Frances and Sydney Lewis Environmental Science Scholarship, Grade 12
This $5,000 college scholarship may be awarded to the 12th-grade student whose project presented at the VJAS Research Symposium evidences the most significant contribution in the field of Environmental Science. The purpose of the award is to stimulate interest in environmental sciences and to enable promising young students to pursue undergraduate studies in a related field. The Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) and the VJAS offer this scholarship in tribute to the outstanding and generous services of VEE Directors Emeriti, Frances A. Lewis, and Sydney Lewis.
The scholarship must be applied for and is decided by a special set of judges. The payment shall only be available to students during their first year of college. Students must provide VJAS with proof of attendance no later than November of their first year in college. Students may choose to have payment made directly to the university or to the student pending approval by the VJAS Director. Failure to provide the requisite evidence will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships.
The Henry W. MacKenzie, Jr. Environmental Scholarship, Grade 12
This $5,000 college scholarship may be awarded to the 12th-grade student whose project presented at the VJAS Research Symposium evidences the most significant contribution in the field of Environmental Science dealing with the James River Basin and the Chesapeake Bay. The purpose of the award is to stimulate interest in environmental sciences and to enable promising young students to pursue undergraduate studies in a related field. The Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) and the VJAS offer this scholarship in tribute to the outstanding and generous services of Judge Henry W. MacKenzie, Jr., one of the founding directors of VEE who had a great interest in the James River and the Chesapeake Bay.
The scholarship must be applied for and is decided by a special set of judges. The payment shall only be available to students during their first year of college. Students must provide VJAS with proof of attendance no later than November of their first year in college. Students may choose to have payment made directly to the university or to the student pending approval by the VJAS Director. Failure to provide the requisite evidence will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships.
Procedure: The application process is accomplished by submitting an Application for Scholarships provided by the Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) form along with the required information listed below. The application and supporting documentation are completed and submitted via the Reviewr platform.
Once the application is submitted, the selection process is two steps. First, applicants present at the VJAS Symposium. Second, applicants will present (at a separate time) to a special panel of judges. These judges will decide the scholarship recipient based on the application and presentation. The scholarship recipients will be announced at the awards presentation. VJAS will notify VEE in June of the recipients. The payment shall only be available to the student during their first year of college. Students must provide VJAS with proof of attendance no later than November of their first year in college. Students may choose to have payment made directly to the university or to the student pending approval by the VJAS Director. Failure to provide the requisite evidence will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships.
Criteria: The recipient must be a Virginia resident enrolled in an accredited public or private high school (grade 12 only) in Virginia at the time of the VJAS Research Symposium. The recipient must present an outstanding paper on a topic related to environmental science at the VJAS annual competition. (Only papers dealing with the James River and the Chesapeake Bay are eligible for the MacKenzie Scholarship.) The recipient must demonstrate leadership abilities, academic achievement, and well-rounded participation in school and community affairs. The recipient must demonstrate an active interest in environmental sciences and intend to enroll as a full-time student in an accredited college or university in the United States.
Only single authors may apply. A single application packet may be used to apply for both the Lewis and MacKenzie scholarships. A previous winner of a VEE scholarship is no longer eligible for another VEE scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships. VEE scholarships will not be awarded to a student who will be attending a private institution whose primary purpose is to provide religious or theological training.
BETHEL HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP
Description: This scholarship of $1000 is awarded to a student (12 grader and not a team project) who has produced an outstanding written paper and is a first-place winner. The money is paid to the student’s college or university during the first year. The student must give the VJAS Director proof of enrollment for the first semester and evidence of satisfactory progress from the first semester. This scholarship comes from the interest earned from a $10,000 endowment contributed to the VJAS by the students of Bethel High School, Hampton, Virginia.
Procedure: A special panel of judges will select the winner from among the first-place papers of all high school students who applied for the award using the Reviewr platform. The student winner must notify the VJAS Director when they are ready to use the scholarship.
Description: Certificates are given for the best student research papers presented in competition at the annual VJAS Symposium. Certificates for First, Second, Third, and up to three (3) Honorable Mention Places may be awarded in each of the following categories. Not all awards are given in each category.
Categories:
Middle School (Grades 7 and 8)
Animal & Human Sciences
Chemical Science
Computational Biology
Ecology & Earth Sciences
Engineering & Technology
Human Behavior
Mathematics: Patterns & Relationships
Microbiology
Physical Science & Astronomy
Plant Science
High School (Grades 9 – 12)
Botany
Chemistry
Computational Biology
Engineering
Environmental & Earth Science
Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling
Medicine & Health
Microbiology & Cell Biology
Physics & Astronomy
Psychology
Statistical Analysis & Inferences
Zoology
When there are multiple sections in a category, awards will be given in each category section.
Procedures: Papers chosen for presentation will be judged in the sections of each category by the section judges. These judges will evaluate both the research paper and the oral presentation at the research symposium for the final selection of First, Second, Third, and Honorable Mention winners. The decision of these judges is final. Please note that students/teachers/sponsors/parents or anyone else may not contact the judges before, during, or after the Research Symposium;, doing so will result in disqualification.
Criteria: The criteria for these awards appear as the points considered by the judges on the Judge’s Evaluation Form.
BEST OF CATEGORY AWARDS
These awards are given to the best project in certain categories. If there are multiple sections, the VJAS Chair and/or the VJAS Director have the right to decide whether a) the two (or more) section judges meet together and decide on one final project for the Best of Category Award OR b) receive all first place papers from sections and let the Honor Awards Committee/Judges decide the winning project for the Best of Category Award.
VAS BOTANY AWARD
Description: Given by the Botany Section of the VAS for outstanding research presented in a Botany section of the VJAS.
Procedure: The section judges of Botany will select the best Botany paper to receive this award.
RODNEY C. BERRY CHEMISTRY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in the field of chemistry.
Procedure: The section judges of Chemistry will select the best Chemistry paper to receive this award.
VIRGINIA PENINSULA ENGINEERS ENGINEERING AWARD
Description: A certificate is given for the best paper in the field of Engineering by the Virginia Peninsula Engineers.
Procedure: The section judges of Engineering will select the best Engineering paper to receive this award.
ANN M. HANCOCK CELLULAR BIOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given to the best paper in cellular biology. This award is given in memory of Ann Hancock, who retired from the Hanover County Public Schools.
Procedure: The section judges of Microbiology and Cell Biology will select the best Cellular Biology paper to receive this award.
MATHEMATICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in mathematics.
Procedure: The section judges of Mathematics: Theoretical & Modeling will select the best Mathematics paper to receive this award.
PHYSICS AND ASTRONOMY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in physics and astronomy.
Procedure: The section judges of Physics and Astronomy will select the best Physics and Astronomy paper to receive this award.
PSYCHOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in psychology.
Procedure: The section judges of Psychology will select the best Psychology paper(s).
STATISTICS AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in statistics.
Procedure: The section judges of Statistical Analysis & Inferences will select the best Statistics paper to receive this award.
VABE ZOOLOGY AWARD
Description: Given for outstanding research in Zoology. The Virginia Association of Biological Educators supports this award.
Procedure: The section judges of Zoology will select the best Zoology paper to receive this award.
SPECIAL INTEREST AWARDS
Special Interest Awards must be applied for before the VJAS Research Symposium. Only papers accepted for presentation are eligible, so students must wait until notified of acceptance before applying. Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform by the Symposium registration date. Follow the instructions on the form and those below carefully.
Note: If no qualified papers meeting the standards of the award(s) are received, it (they) will not be given.
Directions for submitting Special Interest Award applications:
Application is made by submitting a Special Interest Award form available on the Reviewr platform after acceptance to the Symposium. Applications must be received by February 21.
A student must present their paper at the meeting to be eligible for these Special Interest Awards. There is no appeal process for these decisions.
ROSCOE HUGHES GENETICS AWARD
Description: Given to an outstanding paper in the field of Genetics. It is given in memory of Dr. Roscoe D. Hughes , who formed the “Department of Biology and Genetics” in 1938 in the Medical College of Virginia’s School of Pharmacy, later to become part of VCU. In the 1960s, the Virginia Academy of Sciences, led by Dr. Hughes, vigorously lobbied the Governor and the General Assembly to establish the Science Museum of Virginia finally.
Procedure: The selection of the winning papers is made by the Roscoe Hughes Genetics Award judges based on the written paper.
CANCER RESEARCH AWARDS
Description: Given by the American Cancer Society for outstanding research relevant to cancer studies based on the written paper.
Procedure: Selection of the winning papers is made by the Cancer Research Award judges based on the written paper
DR. AND MRS. PRESTON H. LEAKE AWARD IN APPLIED CHEMISTRY
Description: Given to the paper that shows in some way how chemicals, chemical principles, or chemistry have been used or might be used to enhance or even save lives - ways chemistry may be used to provide better things for better living.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Dr. and Mrs. Preston H. Leake Award in Applied Chemistry judges based on the written paper
SMITH SHADOMY INFECTIOUS DISEASES AWARD
Description: Given to commemorate Dr. Smith Shadomy by the Virginia Chapter of the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases to the paper that evidences outstanding research in the field of infectious diseases.
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Infectious Disease Award judges based on the written paper.
SPELEOLOGICAL SOCIETY AWARD
Description: Given by the Richmond Area Speleological Society for outstanding research addressing karst or topics related to speleology (bats, caves, carbonate geology, paleoenvironments, limestone fossils, sinkholes, etc.).
Procedure: The selection of the winning paper is made by the Speleology Society Award judges based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (VMNH) AWARD
Description: Presented by VMNH in recognition of significant contributions in the study and interpretation of Virginia’s natural heritage.
Procedures: The winning paper is selected by a representative of the Friends of the VMNH based on the written paper.
VIRGINIA SEA GRANT COLLEGE PROGRAM AWARD
Description: Given by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program for outstanding marine or coastal research.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Virginia Sea Grant College Program Award judges based on the written paper.
GAMMA SIGMA DELTA AWARD
Virginia Tech Chapter of the Honor Society of Agriculture
Description: Given to a student in recognition of excellence in research dealing with the application of new technologies and/or concepts in agriculture, forestry, or veterinary medicine.
Procedure: The winning paper is selected by the Gamma Sigma Delta Award judges based on the written paper.
DR. JEROME PARSONS AWARD FOR CLINICAL DERMATOLOGY
Description: Given to a student in recognition of the paper with the most significant contribution to the study of Dermatology.
D. VJAS HONOR AWARDS
These are the highest awards for the Virginia Junior Academy of Science. Special panels of honor judges evaluate the projects and determine the awards. Criteria for selection include:
- Uses accepted practices and reporting procedures for the sciences, mathematics, or engineering/technology;
- Addresses a valid question based on a strong understanding of STEM concepts (middle school) and/or makes a significant scientific contribution, basic or applied (high school);
- Shows originality and creativity;
- Thorough project which is well-planned, implemented and articulated;
- Strong evidence of high-quality, independent work;
- Superior project for age, educational background, work environment and/or in relation to other projects.
Middle School Honor Awards for the Best Projects
DOROTHY KNOWLTON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in life sciences, computational biology, and earth sciences. This is given in honor of Dorothy Knowlton, the former Science Coordinator of Arlington County, who was instrumental in advancing experimental design with the science curriculum.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Animal and Human Sciences, Ecology and Earth Science, Human Behavior, Plant Science, and Microbiology middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
JOYCE K PETERSON AWARD
Description: Given to the middle school student or team presenting the best project in the physical sciences. This is given in honor of Joyce Peterson, an outstanding teacher in the Arlington County Schools.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the first-place projects in the Chemical Science, Engineering & Technology, and Physical Science & Astronomy and Mathematics middle school sections. The winner(s) is (are) given a certificate(s).
High School Honor Awards for Best Projects
JONES/ELLETT AWARD, Grade 12
Description: Given to the individual senior (12th grade) student presenting the best project.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the winner from among the seniors (12th graders) who placed first in a high school section. The winner is given a certificate.
Criteria:
- Significant scientific contribution, basic or applied.
- The originality of thought.
- Independent student effort.
VJAS DELEGATES TO AJAS, GRADES 9-11, Sponsored by VAS
Description: The top four research projects by individual or team student projects in grades 9-11.
Procedures: A panel of honor judges selects the honorees from among the students (grades 9-11) who won first place in a senior high section. The winner is the first-ranked project. Alternates are the second-, third-, and fourth-ranked projects.
Attendance at American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS):
The AJAS experience, referring to the American Junior Academy of Science, is a national honor society recognizing outstanding high school student researchers in the United States. It's an annual event held in conjunction with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) meeting. The experience allows students to interact with leading scientists, engage in hands-on activities, and present their research. It emphasizes mentorship and collaboration over competition, fostering a community of young scientists.
Winners receive a certificate and an invitation to represent VJAS at the annual meeting of the American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS) and to present a poster. Students who represent the Commonwealth of Virginia must attend all activities and house with the students (if applicable).
When VJAS/VAS finances permit, cash awards are given to each individual or a team to help defray expenses. The cash award will be the same for an individual or team, so if a team is selected, they need to determine who will represent the team or provide local funding for the other team members. The top four papers are ranked by the judges, and VAS/VJAS will provide cash awards in this order when VAS/VJAS finances permit. VAS/VJAS will attempt to fully cover the winner’s expenses, followed by the alternates.
ERTLE THOMPSON AJAS FELLOWSHIPS MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT AWARD, Grades 9-11
Description: The Ertle Thompson Memorial Endowment Award is established to honor Dr. Ertle Thompson, a long-term leader of VJAS and a former president of the VAS. When financial circumstances allow, these awards will be presented annually to the winner(s) selected as the VJAS Delegate(s) to the AJAS. The purpose of the funds is to help support attendance at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Junior Academy of Science.
Procedure: The winning students selected as the VJAS Delegates to the VJAS will also receive this award. If a student does not attend AJAS, then it will be transferred to another student.
Award for Student’s School Sponsor
DR. R. DEAN DECKER HONORARIUM AWARD
Description: The Dr. R. Dean Decker Honorarium Award will go to the teacher/sponsor of the one top student winner of the VAS Best Research Award. The money can be used as long as it is related to the attendance at the AJAS meeting. Guidelines and procedures for the recipients will follow later.
Procedure: The teacher/sponsor of students who receive the VAS Best Research Awards will receive this award.
Award for Outstanding Service by Students
VIRGINIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCE HONORARY MEMBERSHIP
Description: A certificate and one year’s membership, without cost, in the Virginia Academy of Science, including a subscription to the Virginia Journal of Science, will be awarded.
Procedure: A club sponsor, any VJAS Committee member, VJAS Leader, or a member of the VAS may make Nominations. Nominations and supporting materials will be sent to the VJAS Director before the Research Symposium. The award is based upon one or more of the following criteria. The VJAS Committee selects the winner(s).
Criteria:
- Serving as an officer of the VJAS.
- Working in a commendable manner for a local or state VJAS activity.
- Dedication to being a good VJAS member as exhibited by assistance in such activities at the Research Symposium as registration, balloting, and program planning.
VJAS Student Leadership Award in Honor of the memory of Jo Ann B. Neely, mother of Deborah L. Neely-Fisher
Description: The VJAS Student Leadership Fund Award is established to support, when financial circumstances allow, the student officers of the VJAS who play an integral role not only in representing Virginia students but also in communicating information about the VJAS. These awards will be presented annually to the winner(s) selected as the senior student officers of the VJAS. It supports the positive influence and skill set embodied by the memory of Jo Ann B. Neely, which she strove to instill in others.
Procedure: The winning senior student(s) officer(s) selected as the VJAS Leadership will receive money that will support their education after high school graduation. The VJAS Director will work with the Associate VJAS Director and VAS/VJAS Chair to establish the annual need. This money does not follow the 5% rule, and varying amounts can be pulled as needed.
Awards for Outstanding Service by Adults
VJAS DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Description: A special certificate is presented to a person for exceptionally outstanding service to the VJAS, and public recognition is given at the Research Symposium. This is the most prestigious award that the VJAS gives.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when the time of service devoted to the VJAS and its aims is deemed exceptionally outstanding and distinguished.
VAS AWARD FOR DEDICATED SERVICE TO VJAS
Description: Highest service award of the Junior Academy. This award recognizes a past VJAS officer or VJAS member who has continued to provide support as a volunteer to the Junior Academy even after high school completion.
Procedure: The selection of the person or persons to receive this award is the responsibility of the VJAS Committee, and recommendations may be made at any of the regular meetings. One or more may be chosen in any year, but it is expected that the giving of this award will not be an annual event.
Criteria: No set criteria are described. The award is given only when recognition is deserved through outstanding and distinguished support.
VAS Franklin D. Kizer Teacher Development Fund Awards
The following three VAS-VJAS awards are supported by the Franklin D. Kizer Fund. The purpose of the Fund is to develop and encourage Virginia Science Teachers. The Fund was established by Art Burke and Virginia Ellett in honor of “Doc” Kizer, past State Science Superintendent, Virginia Department of Education, and first President (1952-53) of the Virginia Association of Science Teachers. Its corpus was derived from a transfer of funds to the Academy that constituted the remainder of monies used for the annual state science teachers’ conference when that conference ceased. VAS members Frank Kizer, Art Burke, and Virginia Ellett were among that conference’s leaders and coordinators. An individual may not receive each of the following awards more than once.
It is not required that any of the following awards be made each year.
The Franklin D. Kizer Science Teacher of Tomorrow Award
This award recognizes an outstanding Virginia science teacher and provides an opportunity for professional development through attendance at the annual VAST meeting.
Criteria:
- The recipient is a teacher with a maximum of 5 years as a VJAS teacher sponsor.
- The recipient will have sponsored student participation at the VJAS annual meeting.
- The recipient is nominated and chosen by the VJAS Committee.
- This award will be used to support the recipient's professional development by providing the funds needed to attend the annual VAST meeting. The maximum amount of the award is based on available funding.
The Franklin D. Kizer Fund Distinguished Service Award in Honor of E. C. L. Miller
This award recognizes the exceptional contributions to VJAS of a STEM teacher.
Criteria:
- The recipient will be a teacher who has contributed to the VJAS by sponsoring student research projects, serving as a reader, judge, and/or member of the VJAS Committee.
- The teacher will be nominated and chosen by the VJAS Committee.
- The award will be used for professional development, and the recipient will propose a professional development activity to the Director of the VJAS. The maximum amount of the award is based on available funding. Examples of acceptable proposals include attendance to a professional meeting, tuition for a science/math course, or software to enhance their teaching effectiveness.
The Franklin D. Kizer Professional Development Stipend
This award will be presented to a teacher of the VJAS Best Research Paper Award winner.
Criteria:
- The recipient is a teacher and is active with the VJAS.
- Funds will be used to support the professional development of the teacher-sponsor of the VJAS Best Research Paper (Jones/Ellett Award) winner to attend professional development events in Virginia at the discretion of the VJAS Committee. The maximum award amount is based on available funding.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships must be applied for before the VJAS Research Symposium via the Reviewr platform. Only students whose papers are accepted for presentation are eligible for scholarships.
Only students who present their papers at the meeting may be awarded a scholarship.
Application is made by submitting the application form via the Reviewr platform.
- Scholarship Application: Bethel High School
- Scholarship Application: Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE)
SPECIAL SCHOLARSHIPS. Special panels of judges at the VJAS Research Symposium determine these scholarships. There is no appeal process for these decisions.
SCHOLARSHIPS PROVIDED BY THE VIRGINIA ENVIRONMENTAL ENDOWMENT
The Frances and Sydney Lewis Environmental Science Scholarship, Grade 12
This $5,000 college scholarship may be awarded to the 12th-grade student whose project presented at the VJAS Research Symposium evidences the most significant contribution in the field of Environmental Science. The purpose of the award is to stimulate interest in environmental sciences and to enable promising young students to pursue undergraduate studies in a related field. The Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) and the VJAS offer this scholarship in tribute to the outstanding and generous services of VEE Directors Emeriti, Frances A. Lewis, and Sydney Lewis.
The scholarship must be applied for and is decided by a special set of judges. The payment shall only be available to students during their first year of college. Students must provide VJAS with proof of attendance no later than November of their first year in college. Students may choose to have payment made directly to the university or to the student pending approval by the VJAS Director. Failure to provide the requisite evidence will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships.
The Henry W. MacKenzie, Jr. Environmental Scholarship, Grade 12
This $5,000 college scholarship may be awarded to the 12th-grade student whose project presented at the VJAS Research Symposium evidences the most significant contribution in the field of Environmental Science dealing with the James River Basin and the Chesapeake Bay. The purpose of the award is to stimulate interest in environmental sciences and to enable promising young students to pursue undergraduate studies in a related field. The Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) and the VJAS offer this scholarship in tribute to the outstanding and generous services of Judge Henry W. MacKenzie, Jr., one of the founding directors of VEE who had a great interest in the James River and the Chesapeake Bay.
The scholarship must be applied for and is decided by a special set of judges. The payment shall only be available to students during their first year of college. Students must provide VJAS with proof of attendance no later than November of their first year in college. Students may choose to have payment made directly to the university or to the student pending approval by the VJAS Director. Failure to provide the requisite evidence will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships.
Procedure: The application process is accomplished by submitting an Application for Scholarships provided by the Virginia Environmental Endowment (VEE) form along with the required information listed below. The application and supporting documentation are completed and submitted via the Reviewr platform.
- In order of preference, the colleges and universities to which you will apply.
- In what field of study do you plan to concentrate?
- Describe your career plans.
- List your awards and honors.
- Describe your school activities and explain your role.
- Describe your community activities and explain your role.
Once the application is submitted, the selection process is two steps. First, applicants present at the VJAS Symposium. Second, applicants will present (at a separate time) to a special panel of judges. These judges will decide the scholarship recipient based on the application and presentation. The scholarship recipients will be announced at the awards presentation. VJAS will notify VEE in June of the recipients. The payment shall only be available to the student during their first year of college. Students must provide VJAS with proof of attendance no later than November of their first year in college. Students may choose to have payment made directly to the university or to the student pending approval by the VJAS Director. Failure to provide the requisite evidence will result in the forfeiture of the scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships.
Criteria: The recipient must be a Virginia resident enrolled in an accredited public or private high school (grade 12 only) in Virginia at the time of the VJAS Research Symposium. The recipient must present an outstanding paper on a topic related to environmental science at the VJAS annual competition. (Only papers dealing with the James River and the Chesapeake Bay are eligible for the MacKenzie Scholarship.) The recipient must demonstrate leadership abilities, academic achievement, and well-rounded participation in school and community affairs. The recipient must demonstrate an active interest in environmental sciences and intend to enroll as a full-time student in an accredited college or university in the United States.
Only single authors may apply. A single application packet may be used to apply for both the Lewis and MacKenzie scholarships. A previous winner of a VEE scholarship is no longer eligible for another VEE scholarship. No one student (past or current) may win both the Henry W. Mackenzie and Francis and Sydney Lewis scholarships. VEE scholarships will not be awarded to a student who will be attending a private institution whose primary purpose is to provide religious or theological training.
BETHEL HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP
Description: This scholarship of $1000 is awarded to a student (12 grader and not a team project) who has produced an outstanding written paper and is a first-place winner. The money is paid to the student’s college or university during the first year. The student must give the VJAS Director proof of enrollment for the first semester and evidence of satisfactory progress from the first semester. This scholarship comes from the interest earned from a $10,000 endowment contributed to the VJAS by the students of Bethel High School, Hampton, Virginia.
Procedure: A special panel of judges will select the winner from among the first-place papers of all high school students who applied for the award using the Reviewr platform. The student winner must notify the VJAS Director when they are ready to use the scholarship.
