Norwich University Hosted 67th Annual Vermont STEM Fair in March 2026

Norwich University hosted the 67th annual Vermont Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Fair on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The day-long event, which began with a research showcase in Norwich’s science complex, Bartoletto Hall, was followed by an awards ceremony in Mack Hall auditorium. The event also featured a keynote address by Amrutaa Vibho about her role as an ambassador with the NASA Lucy Mission. Vibho is a Norwich University senior physics and math double major with a chemistry minor.

Free and open to the public, the fair showcased the work of Vermont public, private, and homeschooled students in grades 5-12. The students displayed projects that tackle questions and pose solutions arising from the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math. The event marks the only state-wide STEM fair for middle and high school students, and because of its scope and prizes, it is the premier STEM competition for grades 5-12 in Vermont.

Each accepted project at the state-wide fair was independently evaluated by at least three judges over the course of the morning to determine winners for medals, cash, trips to competitions beyond Vermont, and scholarships. More than 50 volunteer judges were present. Judges included Norwich University professors, industry scientists and engineers, secondary education faculty, medical professionals, retirees, and other science-related professionals from across Vermont. All hold advanced degrees and/or have extensive experience in STEM fields.

Students competed for more than $4,400 in cash prizes donated by local organizations and competed for scholarships to attend the New Hampshire Academy of Sciences. The fair is also affiliated with the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), which awarded additional prizes. Notably, the top winners at the VT STEM fair earns the opportunity to compete at Regeneron ISEF. At ISEF, brilliant young scientific minds from around the globe come together to showcase their talent on an international stage, be judged by doctoral-level scientists, and compete for nearly $9 million in prizes and scholarships. VT STEM Fair is proud to announce that our 2026 top winners, Elijah Renner from Thetford Academy and Clay Nicholson from Champlain Valley Union High School, will compete at ISEF in Phoenix, Arizona in May.

Science fairs inspire young students to pursue STEM fields by offering hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity and creativity. They help students build confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, while connecting them with mentors and professionals. These events foster a passion for STEM, encouraging students to explore future careers and become the next generation of innovators and leaders.

“The Vermont STEM Fair helps encourage and mentor young scientists, enrich high school and elementary school STEM curricula statewide and provide opportunities for outstanding students to participate in national and international science and engineering competitions. Since its founding in 1819, Norwich University has been a leader in experiential education. By hosting the fair for over 30 years, Norwich plays an important role in promoting hands-on science for Vermont’s future leaders.” — Richard Milius, VSTEMF Leadership Team.

When reflecting on the event, STEM Fair Director Emma Barrett (Norwich assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry) was impressed with the high turnout and impressive projects from Vermont students. “The level of innovation at this year's STEM fair was truly remarkable. With an incredible turnout, I am profoundly impressed by the participants' creativity, curiosity, and technical skill. The future of science and engineering in Vermont is bright with these young minds leading the way."

Sponsored by the Vermont Principals’ Association, VSTEM is an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) education organization supported by Norwich University and more than 100 other Vermont organizations, colleges and industry partners, all sharing the common vision to excite young Vermont minds about the STEM fields and the opportunities available to them to complete their STEM education and careers in Vermont.