The 2009 NC Student Academy of Science Annual Meeting and State Competitions was held Friday, March 27th. The keynote presentation was by Dr. Oliver Smithies, Nobel Laureate and Excellence Professor of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. For the 230 student researchers, their sponsors and families, Dr. Smithies described in a colorful and engaging way his research and the many factors that have contributed to his discoveries in science.

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The students made 172 presentations describing the results of their scientific investigations. First, second and third place in each category were awarded gold, silver and bronze medals, respectively. First place winners additionally received an invitation to participate in a poster presentation and recognition event at the NC Academy of Science meeting at Warren Wilson College on April 4, 2009. All students received the new conference tee shirt, designed by Mr. Juan Scivally, Art Instructor at NCSSM.

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The competition was judged by approximately 50 professionals from state agencies, educational institutions, and businesses in the Triangle. Students were given the chance to meet with the judges over dinner after the competition to get additional feedback about their projects and learn about the science interests of the judges. Two teachers were recognized with NCSAS Teacher Recognition Awards: Rob Halpern of Millennium Charter Academy and William Hendrickson Halifax High School.

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Several students were nominated for officer positions at the meeting. The election will be by email ballot and the results announced later.

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