March 2025

Offering a challenging education for students talented in the areas of mathematics and science, stimulating further excellence in STEM for all Illinois schools, and devoted to equitable outcomes that challenge the status quo.

IMSA is pleased to share a new series of seven snapshots that highlight how our students and alumni are making significant contributions to emerging fields essential to Illinois’ economic future. These concise overviews demonstrate IMSA’s impact in areas that align with the state’s investment priorities:

• Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• Biotech and Bio-Medical Innovation
• Quantum Computing
• Entrepreneurship and Social Impact
• Sustainability and Clean Energy
• Engineering the Future
• Agriculture and Bio Manufacturing

Each snapshot includes examples of student research, internships, and entrepreneurial efforts, as well as alumni leading innovation in these key sectors. These materials underscore IMSA’s role in talent development, innovation, and long-term economic growth for Illinois.

IMSA is proud to offer Summer Research and Experiential Learning Opportunities (SRELO) to science-inclined junior high and high school students across Illinois. We are now inviting students from other public and private high schools.

SRELO is designed to expand equitable access to high-impact STEM learning experiences aligned with Illinois' workforce development priorities. Students engage in cutting-edge research, internships, and mentorships in climate science, biotechnology, clean energy, and data science, helping prepare the next generation of talent for high-demand careers. Opportunities are available in residential, commuter, hybrid, and remote formats, making participation accessible to students across the state.

Locations Include:

• IMSA Campus (Aurora) – Three research tracks for students in residence
• Southern Illinois University – Carbondale and Edwardsville
• Western Illinois University – Macomb
• Discovery Partners Institute – Chicago
• Kane County Forest Preserve – Elburn

Scholarships for IMSA summer programs are available for eligible students to ensure that cost is not a barrier. These opportunities play a vital role in strengthening Illinois’ innovation pipeline and broadening access to world-class STEM experiences for students statewide. Programs begin in June.

This summer, IMSA is offering Summer@IMSA, a series of hands-on STEM camps in Aurora, Metro East and Carbondale, open to students of all ages. Designed by IMSA Curriculum Specialists and aligned with national science standards, these programs support early STEM talent development statewide.

IMSA graduate Dr. Joseph Turek ‘90 (Petersburg, IL) was recently featured on the Today Show for a groundbreaking medical achievement that saved the lives of three young patients. Dr. Turek performed a heart transplant for an 11-year-old girl, then used valves from her original heart to save two additional children, marking a historic advancement in pediatric heart surgery.



Dr. Turek’s journey exemplifies the life-changing impact of Illinois' investment in STEM education. After beginning at IMSA, he continued his education in Illinois, earning both his MD from the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago and his PhD from the University of Illinois at Chicago. His work stands as a powerful testament to how early support for gifted learners fosters breakthroughs that benefit the world.

Jordan Henry '25 (Hoffman Estates) is making a meaningful impact on public health policy in Illinois. Her research and data collection played a key role in the introduction of House Bill 1910, sponsored by State Representative Anna Moeller.



The bill addresses the state’s ongoing opioid crisis by equipping public libraries with opioid antagonists like naloxone and allowing trained staff to administer the medication during overdose emergencies on library grounds or at library-sponsored events. Jordan's work was recently featured on WGN News.

Sai Ganbote '26 (Aurora) and Abhinav Anne '26 (Plainfield) have contributed to drafting House Bill 2960, aimed at improving access to mental health education for students statewide. Drawing from personal experiences with friends and family navigating mental healthcare, they are dedicated to making support more accessible for students.

The students' work was also highlighted on WGN News, underscoring how students, empowered through IMSA’s inquiry-based education, can contribute to real-world solutions that directly benefit Illinois communities.

For more information about IMSA, contact Tami Armstrong,

Chief Public Affairs and Development Officer at tarmstrong@imsa.edu.

Notice of Nondiscrimination: IMSA prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator.