State Sen. Mike Delph (R-Carmel) today congratulated local Carmel High School graduates Adit Chandra and Helena Ma on being named 2015 Mr. and Miss Science.
“I am incredibly proud to recognize Adit Chandra and Helena Ma on receiving these prestigious awards,” Delph said. “These two students shine bright in our community and have shown impressive work in their studies. Both students have very promising futures ahead of them.”
Chandra and Ma have been recognized on their outstanding performance in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) classes and extracurricular activities. Indiana’s top math and science students were nominated earlier this year, and a panel of STEM professionals, teachers, and university selected the winners based on academic performance, work in research, leadership, community service, and extracurricular involvement. Both students will receive a $1,000 college scholarship through Indiana’s CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan.
In announcing the winners, Gov. Mike Pence noted the following accomplishments of Ma and Chandra:
Ma, 2015 Miss Science, graduated as a National AP Scholar, National Merit Scholarship Finalist, and Presidential Scholar Semifinalist. There, she participated in the Science Bowl, Math Club, Physics Bowl, Chemistry Olympiad, and Science Olympiad. Ma was also a member of the National Honor Society, Student Government House of Representatives, Principal’s Advisory Council, and served as editor-in-chief of her school’s newspaper. She also conducted research with a professor at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis and volunteered regularly at St. Vincent’s Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. She plans to attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the fall.
Chandra, 2015 Mr. Science, graduated as an AP Scholar, Indiana Academic All-Star, US National Chemistry Olympiad National Finalist, and Intel ISEF International Finalist. Chandra was selected to the Carmel Education Foundation Board, served as the President of the Science Olympiad, and co-founded and captained the Science Bowl club at Carmel High School. He won a state championship in cross country and played saxophone for the junior all-state band. He also conducted research with professors at the Indiana University School of Medicine. Chandra plans to attend Harvard University in the fall.
(Submitted release)