Senior Grant Sheen has been named a top 300 scholar in the 78th Regeneron Science Talent Search, a science and mathematics competition for high school seniors.

As a member of the top 300, Sheen will receive $2,000, and Sage Hill School will also receive $2,000 to use toward STEM-related activities.

For the competition, Sheen submitted his wireless, mobile system that allows people with Alzheimer’s to communicate their desire to rest, read, walk or eat. He previously won a $10,000 Davidson Fellows Scholarship for this same project.

“It is such an honor to be named a Regeneron STS Scholar. STS is the nation's oldest and most prestigious science competition, and it means so much to be recognized,” Sheen said.

The scholars were selected from 1,818 applicants from 555 high schools in 45 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico and six American and international high schools overseas. The scholars were selected based on their exceptional research skills, commitment to academics, innovative thinking and promise as scientists.

Sheen could also be named as one of 40 Finalists, who each receive $25,000 and are invited to Washington, DC for the final competition in March.

The top 40 finalists will be announced on Tuesday, January 23.

Sheen’s grandmother, who had Alzheimer’s, was the inspiration for his invention.

“I know my grandmother would be proud,” Sheen said. “I am very excited to find out about the top 40 finalists, and I am hoping for the best!”


Photo by Cammi Phillips '19