For a dozen gifted college students, Friday marked the completion of eight weeks of in-depth research at OMRF. As summer scholars, the 12 took part in hands-on, individual research projects under the direction of senior-level OMRF scientists. Projects ranged from studying autoimmune diseases like lupus, to heart disease, cancer and obesity.
In addition to working in the lab, Fleming and Presidential Scholars attend lectures by OMRF scientists to learn about various research projects and science-related career options. They attend social events and spend time together as a group outside the lab. At the end of the eight weeks, scholars made formal presentations outlining their individual research results to OMRF’s scientists.
OMRF’s Fleming Scholar Program has served as a stepping stone for hundreds of Oklahoma students seeking careers in the sciences. Since 1956, scores of Fleming Scholars have gone on to establish medical and research careers, including two OMRF researchers, Rodger McEver, M.D., and Judith James, M.D., Ph.D., who got their start in the program.
2015 Fleming Scholars
Jake Gregston, Duncan, Southwestern Oklahoma State University
David Gutierrez, Woodward, Northwestern Oklahoma State University
Laura Jardine, Muskogee, Oklahoma City University
Krishna Manohar, Tulsa, University of Oklahoma
Savannah Martin, Duncan, Duncan High School
Kyle McCauley, McAlester, University of Oklahoma
Katie McDonald, Stillwater, Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics
Jacy O’Dell, Claremore, Oklahoma Baptist University
Jillian Schlecht, Oklahoma City, University of Tulsa
Farris Tedder, Norman, Norman High School
Michael Thellmann, Edmond, Oklahoma Christian University
Eric Wu, Edmond, Edmond North High School
2015 Presidential Scholar
