Harper Academy Class of 2025
Program Highlights
2025 was a stellar cohort with 16 all-stars enrolled for the Harper Academy. The students enjoyed a variety of programming from academic classes to field trips and more.
Stoichiometry class: learning about nuclear gravities and etc
NERS lab field trip: daytrip to Michigan NERS facility. Tour, experimental testing scenario.
Campus access: guided trips and behind the scenes tours of UofM Big House, facilities, etc.
There were aspects that were noted as challenges during term. A few of our all-stars found the academic programs to be rigorous, noting the sustained level of responsibility and autonomy given to them.
Meet our All-Stars
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Prince McGuire
Class of 2026 at Mt. Sophia Academy
Extracurricular Activities: FTC Robotics Club, Chess Club, Math League
Greatest Inspiration: Jesus Christ and Parents
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Physics
Mentor Statement: “He is excited about most things science or math related and is one of the most enthusiastic and curious students I have ever known.”
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Sarita Govindaraj
Class of 2026 at North Farmington High School
Extracurricular Activities: DECA, Student Government Executive Board, Tennis Team. Volunteer: Mayor Youth Council- leading town events and clean up
Greatest Inspiration: Grandfather
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student at The University of Michigan majoring in Aerospace Engineering
Mentor Statement: “Sarita is a highly motivated and driven student, and she is always looking for ways that she can better herself. Sarita has consistently scored top marks among her peers, and she is always willing to help a student in need if they do not understand an assignment or need extra help. She is detail oriented as well as always striving to do her best.”
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Mark Chernolutskiy
Class of 2026 at Rochester Adams High School
Extracurricular Activities: Robotics (FRC, VEX, FLL), Skeet Shooting
Greatest Inspiration: Parents
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Biomedical Engineering
Mentor Statement: “Mark consistently demonstrated a solid understanding of key programming concepts and applied them effectively in his work. I believe Mark has a bright future ahead, and I am confident that he will continue to excel in any future academic or professional endeavors.”
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Rachel Kittell
Class of 2026 at Forest Hills Central High School
Extracurricular Activities: NHS, Activity Coordinator for Spanish Club. Volunteer: Volleyball Coach, YMCA, Local Hispanic Soup Kitchen
Greatest Inspiration: Father
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor: “My enthusiastic endorsement is based upon my absolute belief in this outstanding young woman and my knowledge and understanding of the combination of qualities that must be characteristic of an individual seeking a STEM degree. Rachel is an outstanding young woman by all measures; she has positive qualities and enthusiasm for all aspects of her life. Fully committed, passionate, open-minded, and enthusiastic about learning and growing.”
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Cheick Traore
Class of 2026 at Early College Alliance at Eastern Michigan University
Extracurricular Activities: Entrepreneur, Track Club, Soccer
Volunteer: Community Action Network
Greatest Inspiration: Sister
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “He is an exemplary student. He is engaged and involved in lecture, and I have seen him go out of his way to help other students during group work sessions. I have full confidence that he would make a fine addition to your program.”
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Jishnu Kandalam
Class of 2026 at Northville High School
Extracurricular Activities: Boy Scouts of America (Eagle Scout Rank), Taekwondo, Marching & Symphonic Band, Chemistry Club
Greatest Inspiration: Parents
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student at The University of Michigan majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “I have had the privilege of observing his academic, performance, intellectual curiosity, and personal growth. He is highly collaborative, often helping peers understand difficult concepts, while maintaining a humble and eager-to-learn attitude. His work ethic, integrity, and ability to balance multiple responsibilities make him an ideal candidate for this prestigious program.”
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Josephine Johnson
Class of 2026 at Saline High School
Extracurricular Activities: NHS, Volleyball, Link Crew Leader, Student Council
Greatest Inspiration: Family
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering or Computer Science
Mentor Statement: “I would describe Josie as a hard working, respectful, and engaging student. Josie works incredibly hard. In addition, she is incredibly respectful to not just me but her peers. She is oftentimes the leader of the group and will facilitate roles and discussion among her group members. I have always appreciated how she could work with anyone in the class and make them feel welcome.”
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Robert Powe
Class of 2026 at Michigan Math Science Academy, Hidden Genius Project
Greatest Inspiration: Mother
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student Majoring in Radiology
Mentor Statement: “I can confidently attest to his unwavering dedication, exemplary character, and commitment to excellence in all areas of his life. He embodies the values of the NHS through his consistent display of integrity, respect, and humility. His peers look up to him as a role model, and his teachers and mentors regard him as a dependable and sincere individual.”
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Sher Hussain
Class of 2026 at Hamtramck High School
Extracurricular Activities: NHS, Robotics Team, Student Council
Greatest Inspiration: Uncle
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering or IT.
Mentor Statement: “I have had the opportunity to observe many students, and I can confidently say that Sher Hussain stands out as a dedicated and talented individual. His ability to grasp complex concepts and apply them effectively is a testament to his diligence and intellectual curiosity. Among Sher Hussain's many skills, his leadership and public speaking abilities stand out. He communicates effectively and articulates his ideas with confidence, making him a respected voice among his peers.”
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Asia Shi
Class of 2026 at Huron High School
Extracurricular Activities: Engineering OnRamp and MREACH at the University of Michigan, The Ross Program, Treasurer and Chinese Yoyo Branch Leader of APEX, Business Professionals of America, Golf Volunteer: Secretary of local Chinese Schools Student Council, Secretary for Helping Hands Club for the Homeless.
Greatest Inspiration: Family/Parents
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “She has an incredible amount of self-reliance and tenacity that further led her to be one of the stronger students in her class. Asia continually demonstrated a tremendous work ethic and grew throughout our time together becoming a model student. As a teacher, it is incredibly fulfilling to witness a student make this kind of a leap. I have not seen Asia be anything but kind, truthful, and honest in all her interactions with me or others.”
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Lasya Jalari
Class of 2026 at Canton High School
Extracurricular Activities: Officer in Math Olympiad, Vice President of Key Club, Ambassador for National Society of High School Scholars, HOSA, School Principal’s Advisory Board, Volunteer for Women’s Shelters
Greatest Inspiration: Father
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “I believe that Lasya is one of the most hard working, resilient, determined and dedicated students that I’ve had. On an everyday basis, Lasya entered the classroom with a positive attitude and she was determined to be successful.”
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Noa Orlyanchik
Class of 2026 at Washtenaw International High School
Extracurricular Activities: Capoeira, Board of Acapella Club
Greatest Inspiration: Family & Friends
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Biology
Mentor Statement: “Noa excels in team settings, where her ability to contribute meaningfully and work effectively with others is invaluable. She always puts forth her best effort, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment to achieving excellence, no matter the challenge. Noa’s ability to remain undeterred by obstacles speaks to her resilience and determination.”
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Ahmad Zawahreh
Class of 2026 at Dearborn High School
Extracurricular Activities: Math Corps, Captain of Debate Team
Greatest Inspiration: Grandfather
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: Ahmad demonstrated exceptional maturity, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for both mathematics and mentoring. His positive attitude, patience, and ability to connect with students made him a highly effective role model.
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Tucker Ballenger
Class of 2026 at Traverse City West Senior High
Extracurricular Activities: President- STEM NHS, Robotics Team, Math Counts. Volunteer: Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundations Youth Advisory Council; Superintendent/Board of Education Student Advisory Council – Homeless Shelters, Indigenous Education and our Women’s Resource Center
Greatest Inspiration: Parents
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “He also drives himself to a high standard of performance by dedicating himself to continuous learning. He has a strong sense of identity and that confidence gives others a safe space to fail and thus learn. I see the drive to enhance his personal skills and then share that knowledge effectively as a superior measure of Tucker’s personal character.”
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Fatima-Zohra Kosgi
Class of 2026 at International Academy East
Extracurricular Activities: Bioengineering Club, Tennis. Volunteer: Local Bookshop, Teacher for Science Olympiad at elementary school
Greatest Inspiration: Mother
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student at the University of Michigan majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “I have been consistently impressed by her intellectual curiosity and commitment to her academic and extracurricular pursuits. Her dedication is evident through the extra work she willingly undertakes, benefiting not only her own understanding but also enriching the class. Fatima exhibits a commendable openness to various approaches, showcasing both resilience and a collaborative spirit by assisting her peers.”
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Ashlyn Manier
Class of 2026 at M.E Stilwell School of the Arts
Extracurricular Activities: Environmental club, STEAM Club, Clayton State University Python Coding Bootcamp, Black Girls Code, Band Section Leader
Greatest Inspiration: Mother
Three (3) Year Goal: A college student majoring in Engineering
Mentor Statement: “I have had the privilege of witnessing her academic excellence, leadership, and passion for engineering firsthand. Ashlyn is also a natural leader, she has honed her skills in mentorship, collaboration, and discipline. What truly sets Ashlyn apart is her ability to tackle complex challenges with persistence and creativity. Her ability to grasp complex technical concepts, combined with her strong work ethic and leadership, makes her an outstanding candidate for this program.”
Media & Press
Video Content
Everything from interviews, recap videos, behind-the-scenes footage and more.
Photo Library
Some of our favorite images; all taken over the course of the 2025 cohort!