Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientific Leaders
Burpee Museum is the home of the 815 Emerging Scientists program. Established to recognize promising young minds in grades 7–12, this year-long cohort initiative moves students from being interested in science to actually doing it. Thanks to our community’s incredible generosity, cohort members participate in the core program at no cost.
Students split into small groups for foundational labs or independent research, relying on community and industry backing through engineering/science mentorships, student sponsorships, supply donations, field travel underwriting, and independent research grants.
An Ongoing Cohort: The Burpee Institute Pipeline
Graduates transition into long-term regional science pathways via the Burpee Institute, which offers advanced laboratory specialties, fieldwork and active research, independent research projects, and leadership roles.
Celebrating Our Inaugural Cohort
We are thrilled to announce the 2026–2027 815 Emerging Scientists Cohort. These outstanding middle and high school students were selected through a competitive review process for their exceptional curiosity, initiative, and passion for discovery.
Our reach proudly extends across the entire Rockford region and into our surrounding communities:
• Rockford Region: Auburn, Guilford, Boylan, Harlem, Hononegah, Belvidere North, North Boone, Willowbrook, Roscoe, Oregon, and Thurgood Marshall.
• Chicago Suburbs: Prospect High School and William Fremd High School.
• Iowa: Central DeWitt High School.
• Online & Homeschool Academies
The Recognition Ceremony
Join us as we officially welcome and celebrate these young scientists!
• What: Emerging Scientists Recognition Ceremony
• When: December 12, 2026
• Where: Burpee Museum of Natural History
The 2026–2027 Emerging Scientists Cohort
• Alyvia Phan
• Ashton van der Merwe
• Aubrey Carlson
• Ava Fedie
• Avery Ortgiesen
• Brie Fleming
• Bryce Harris
• Camden Harris
• DL Dosado
• Ella Atchley
• Jonathan Tolle
• Julia Kurien
• Lily Frew
• Maia Toenjes
• Michael Schock
• Nick Warter
• Olivia L. Hauch
• Osayanmona Omozusi
• Thomas Nestler
• Thomas Weerda
• Yelyzaveta
Get Involved: Support the Cohort
The 815 Emerging Scientists are divided into smaller, ability-based groups to work on foundational laboratory practices or pursue independent research investigations. Industry professionals and community donors make a massive difference in helping them map out their futures
Become an Engineering & Science Mentor
We are looking for engineers, technical professionals, and STEM experts to help guide our students’ curiosity. We especially welcome mentors interested in:
• Project Mentorship: Helping students narrow down a curiosity or scientific question into a focused, manageable engineering project.
• Career Pathways: Sharing your professional journey to introduce students to diverse engineering disciplines and technical fields.
• Hands-on Leadership: Leading interactive sessions or activities focused on electronics, circuits, programming, robotics, or engineering design.
• Technical Feedback: Providing critical project guidance on how to run tests, interpret technical results, and communicate findings clearly.
• Network Building: Connecting our cohort with colleagues or local workplaces that could offer specialized expertise or educational site visits.
Sponsor a Scientist or Donate Supplies
Keep this program 100% tuition-free for these deserving students. Your financial support funds museum club access, biology lab materials, and travel expenses for field research and trips to partner museums.
• Sponsoring a Student Cohort: Funding creates a student’s full year-long pipeline experience, including complimentary access to specialized Burpee clubs (such as the Zoology Evolution Club or Dino Club), advanced mentorship sessions, and core program resources.
• Providing Lab & Engineering Supplies: Donating or funding physical materials essential for hands-on learning, including biology lab skeletal preparation kits, field testing gear, electronics components, circuit kits, robotics parts, and programming tools.
• Underwriting Field Travel Experiences: Covering transportation and admission costs for regional travel
•Funding Independent Research Grants:
Stay Connected
Ask Questions, Stay Curious!
elizabeth.coleman@burpee.org