Class of 2026 Review

It was a joy to attend the celebration last week marking the conclusion of the 3rd annual Harper Academy 4 Future Nuclear Engineers camp at the University of Michigan! Having helped shepherd this academy in its foundational years alongside Associate Dean Todd Allen, the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences (NERS) and Eric Aiken, watching its continuous evolution and success remains deeply rewarding. A massive shoutout to Jeffrey Harper for bringing his dream to Michigan and for his unwavering commitment to access and opportunity in STEM. Huge shoutout as well to Otis Waters for his incredible dedication to making Harper Academy happen, and to my wonderful colleagues at the Michigan Engineering Zone (Haley Hart and LaMar Thompson-Hightower, LMSW) for carrying the torch and ensuring this year’s program was an absolute triumph!

The trajectory of this program is backed by incredible results. Look at the proven impact from the 2025 Alumni Cohort:

• 100% University Bound (16/16)

• 63% accepted into U-M Engineering (compared to the ~15% general public acceptance rate!)

• 81% accepted into top-tier Engineering programs nationwide (including MIT, Georgia Tech, and Stony Brook with full scholarships)

When we talk about creating real, lasting pathways for K–12 students to see college and STEM as a reality, this 2025 benchmark proves what is possible. Congratulations to the Cohort 3 scholars on carrying this powerful legacy forward!

~ Joseph B. (Harper Academy Program Partner)