Saunders Science Scholars program to close May 30 after decade of STEM work; students report strong college placements

Dr. Crystal Harden and Mr. Benjamin Saunders told the Gates County Board of Education on May 11 that the Saunders Science Scholar program will conclude on May 30 after running in the district for several years.

Harden said the program — an enrichment effort that began when the first cohort was in sixth grade — produced 12 graduates in 2025 and, across the two most recent cohorts, the presenters reported roughly $2 million in merit scholarship awards and acceptances to multiple colleges. "We graduated 12 scholars, 10 enrolled in college, eight remaining in college at five different institutions," Harden said during her presentation and added that graduates earned approximately $1 million in merit awards for the 2025 cohort and about $2 million combined for both cohorts, as reported to the board.

Two graduating students described how the program affected their preparation for college. "Being a part of the science program has given me opportunities that have helped me grow in many ways," said Janna Pal, identified in the meeting as a Gates County High School senior. "It has challenged me to start thinking more critically, stay disciplined, and just to push me to achieve more than I ever thought I could." Another graduate, London Barber, who is headed to college on a full academic scholarship, said the program "opened my eyes to a family outside of my family" and credited the program's leaders with helping students secure scholarship and campus opportunities.

Harden and Saunders described program activities that included monthly meetings, summer camps, college tours (including visits to Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, NC State and others), and partnerships with institutions such as Elizabeth City State University and Morehead Planetarium. Harden noted many alumni remain enrolled in higher education and several students earned dean's-list recognition or full scholarships.

Board members and attendees recognized faculty, staff and community partners who supported the program. The district will hold a closing celebration for scholars and families on May 30, and Harden said the Gates County Community Partnership and other local organizations plan to continue some post-program community education activities even after the Saunders program officially ends.

The program's end leaves school leaders and partners discussing how to preserve elements of the model that produced the stated college placements and scholarship outcomes for rural students.