Awards

Empowering the next generation: CASE alumna receives prestigious $20,000 scholarship

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CASE alumna Veronica Duran receives a prestigious $20,000 Mayor's Opportunity Scholarship to study Nursing at SUNY University of Buffalo, highlighting the impact of Carnegie Academy for Science Education's programs on students' future success.
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Veronica Duran poses on stage with her 20K check for the Mayor's Opportunity Scholarship

Washington, D.C.— Carnegie Academy for Science Education alumna Veronica Duran was awarded one of five Mayor's Opportunity Scholarships from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. These $20,000 scholarships, which support students who are pursuing careers in healthcare, are part of the 45th-anniversary celebration of the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP).

Duran will use this grant money to partially fund her tuition at SUNY University of Buffalo, where she will study Nursing with a focus on mental health and addiction studies.

“With the financial relief the grant provides, I can focus on my studies and become involved in the many opportunities available on campus,” Duran said. “Ultimately, my education will allow me to pursue a career in healthcare so that I can achieve my goal of helping others.”

Duran’s journey with CASE began in the Summer S.T.A.R.S. Program, a six-week summer laboratory research experience designed for high school and undergraduate students. Each cohort has a distinct area of focus, ranging from rocketry to astrobiology to coding. The program serves as a powerful stepping stone for students like Duran, who are paid through MBSYEP to learn lab research techniques, build mentor relationships with Carnegie scientists and staff, and receive training in college and workplace readiness skills.

CASE for Impact

CASE had a large impact on my college decisions and planning. Working at CASE allowed me to experience STEM education at a higher level through hands-on experiences.

Veronica Duran Duran uses a pipette aid to transfer LB Broth into a conical tube.

I received lots of mentorship at CASE. Since none of my immediate family are involved in STEM, it was difficult for them to provide me with advice regarding careers and education.

Veronica Duran Duran shows off competent E.coli cells that she streaked onto an agar plate petri dish.

I appreciated hearing the advice from former CASE interns who are currently pursuing higher education and STEM careers—especially as I head to university this fall.

Veronica Duran Group photo of CASE staff and students: Ahmeda Turay (Lead Biotech Research Assistant), Jaiden Burney, Veronica Duran, Ramella Suber (Summer STARS Instructor), Stella Grand, Darwin Denny
Veronica Pipettes liquid
Veronica showing off her competent E.coli cells that she streaked onto an agar plate petri dish
A group photo of Veronica Duran and the following CASE staff/students from left to right: Ahmeda Turay - Lead Biotech Research Assistant Jaiden Burney - Research Assistant Veronica Duran - Research Assistant Ramella Suber - Lab Technician; Summer STARS Instructor Stella Grand - Research Assistant Darwin Denny - Research Assistant

"As a former CASE student myself, it has been my honor to continue CASE's legacy of providing a meaningful laboratory experience to such a hard-working, dedicated, and truly deserving student like Veronica,” said Ramella Suber, who now works as a Lab Technician for the CASE program. “Her success is an example of why outreach and education programs are an important part of our mission.” 

Since 1989, CASE has provided hands-on science and STEM learning opportunities to students in the nation’s capital, directly serving more than 1,600 students and providing 50,000 student program hours. Participants gain access to cutting-edge science education and mentorship that sets them up for future success. Duran is a shining example of the impact CASE can have.

Marlena Jones, Director of CASE, remarked on Duran’s achievement: “Veronica has always impressed us with her dedication, curiosity, and passion for learning. We are honored to have played a role in her accomplishments. Her commitment to a career in healthcare reflects her character and the hard work she’s put in. We’re so proud of her and can’t wait to see what she’ll achieve next.”

As we celebrate Duran’s achievement, Carnegie Science reaffirms its commitment to supporting the educational and career goals of young people in the District of Columbia. By working with programs like MBSYEP, we can help ensure that every student gets the chance to succeed.