National STEM Scholars will be inspired, encouraged, and empowered to grow their students and themselves. Led by skilled science educators, the Scholar experience fosters new ideas and approaches to teaching, provides a national network of colleagues for career-long interaction, and creates unique access to national thought leaders in education who participate in the program.

The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science and the Center for Gifted Studies at Western Kentucky University (WKU) host and coordinate this prestigious program. The 10 Scholars selected for the 2027 class will convene May 30 - June 4, 2027, on WKU’s campus in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

National STEM Scholars will receive funding for equipment and supplies needed to complete a Challenge Project for classroom implementation, a Chromebook to facilitate communication between colleagues, and sponsored attendance at the 2028 NSTA National Conference. WKU faculty will provide mentoring throughout the year.

The National STEM Scholar Program funds expenses, including travel costs, materials, mentoring, and Challenge Project supplies, through a grant from the National Stem Cell Foundation.