A Message from Coriell Institute

Dear Scientists,

Welcome to the Coriell Institute Science Fair!

Thank you to all of the participants in the room today. Each of your projects required curiosity, vision, tenacity, cleverness, and hard work–all qualities fitting a successful scientist. You should be proud of your commitment to completing your project and competing today. Congratulations to all.

Thank you also to the teachers, the parents and guardians, the judges, the volunteers, and all else who make this fair possible. All great scientists require mentors, teachers, and support to pursue their questions and curiosities about the world. Mentors and teachers are often our first inspirations, stirring in us lasting passions for discovery, and they guide and expand our education. Your work is appreciated deeply.

Great science does not happen in a vacuum. It occurs through collaboration among many people across a great many different roles. The men and women in lab coats need talented programmers to develop computational tools once thought impossible. They need engineers to develop state-ofthe-art equipment with the potential to change the way we see the world. They need teachers to inform and educate, and they need artists and writers to visualize and communicate our work and its story to the public.

If you have an interest in science, there is a home for you, regardless of the nature of your skills.

Finally, to all of the participants in the room, remember that science is not about winning awards or acing exams. It is the process of discovery. It is the spark of a question and the pursuit of an answer. It is the winding paths that you travel as you hunt for that answer. If you participated today, know that you have already achieved something truly remarkable by putting your ideas and findings on display.

May your curiosity lead you to interesting new places and a fulfilling future.

Jean-Pierre Issa, MD President & Chief Executive Officer