18 / matters magazine / spring 2026 “made the re search f e e l real in a way a typical school project d o e s not.” His project was accepted at an academic conference before he went on to study mathematics and com puter science at Stanford University. Forman’s risk-taking, innovation and creativity propelled him to take a leave from college to start a tech company, for which he successfully raised $6 million in seed funding. Kathleen Wade, a CHS physics teacher, has led the Science Research Program since 2020. She set out to build a strong culture of collabora tion, curiosity and independence, en couraging students to pursue research topics that magnetize them. In ad dition to PowerPoint presentations, students conduct peer review, which is the process of evaluating a fellow scientist’s research. This fundamental step in the scientific research process also exposes students to new fields. Science can be present in other disciplines, including the field of art. During her time at CHS, Maia Curran (Class of ‘22) collaborated with art conservationists at Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Museum. She analyzed age-related degradation in plastic and 3D-printed art objects Maia Curran completes her undergrad uate degree in Women and Gender Studies at Smith College this spring with plans to pursue a law degree. Sam Forman studied math ematics and computer sci ence at Stanford University. with Sarah Barack and Jessica Wal thew, local experts living in SOMA. “I was passionate about my role in a mentorship with two female sci entists, particularly in such influen tial roles in the field,” Curran says. “Science and scientific research tend to be historically male-dominated fields.” She says that major contribu tions of women are overlooked and that their voices are necessary on the frontlines. Curran’s experiences in the program helped inform her desire to engage in historically mar ginalized areas. Although she has put down her art for now, she says, “the tools of mentorship remain.” Our towns have a wealth of resources and experts who give back to their school community. Com menting on her decision to support the program, Barack, a senior conser vator for Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, says, “I have always loved working with students, mentoring them and sharing my passion for the ways art and science intersect.” Raising aware ness of the intersection serves another important purpose. “With arts fund ing often receiving budget cuts, I feel it is important to show ways in which applied science in this field can promote and support the arts.” Like other research mentors, Barack says she “enjoys watching students in the act of experimentation, discovery and learning new things.” Science Research students may not experience the grand applause of a CHS musical on closing night. However, they showcase their find ings in impressive venues and uni versity conferences. Many have been published in prestigious academic journals. No small feat for high school students! Alumni from Wade’s most recent graduating class carry the program’s legacy at Brown, Cornell, Princ eton and other top-tier universities. The program continues to give stu dents life-changing opportunities to explore their passion, attain great achievements and make the world a better place. Savannah Martin is a junior at Co lumbia High School researching dermal absorption and endocrine disruption in the CHS Science Research Program. We keep you smiling! 250 Millburn Avenue | Millburn 973-467-0077 Saturdays and Evenings Available On site parking | Convenient location Wendy Wisz, DMD General, Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry Every effort is made to ensure the utmost comfort for each patient. Enjoy a modern profession- al environment and a caring staff. As a former faculty member of Fairleigh Dickinson Den- tal School, Dr. Wisz now de- votes all her time to private practice. June 3, 2026 at 6:30pm Orange Lawn Tennis Club South Orange, NJ jespyhouse.org/SpringGala Join us in celebrating our community! Bottle King; Elizabeth Broadhurst, Little Apple Arts; Jason Miller, Sonny’s Bagels Celebrating JESPY Clients and Honoring:
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