Fort Valley State University Celebrates Fifth Annual Valley Scholars Summer Research Program
Thursday, August 14th, 2025
Fort Valley State University (FVSU) proudly concluded its 2025 Valley Scholars Summer Undergraduate Research Program with a closing ceremony held on July 17, 2025, in the Jones Student Center. The event marked the culmination of eight weeks of intensive research and professional development for 18 student scholars.
This year’s cohort included 15 Valley Scholars and 3 Driving Math Competence through STEM Modeling (D’MCS S-STEM) Scholars who presented their original research projects, developed under the mentorship of 22 dedicated FVSU faculty and staff members across a range of academic disciplines. The program, now in its fifth year, continues to foster academic excellence and leadership in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
The 2025 Valley Scholars are:
Surayyah Adams, Haneefat Adanijo, Aaniyah Allen, Muhkayah Akbar, Elijah Alicea, Jayla Barkley, Tae’la Brown, Ja’Ker Harden, Ronecia Hood, Ma’Kariya James, Jayda Johnson, Aniyah Parris, Shari Pickney, Solomon Rayton, and Ariyanna Reedy
They were joined by D’MCS S-STEM Scholars:
Jaela Adams, Tyanna Bastine, and Bridgette Clarke
Throughout the summer, participants engaged in a curriculum that included training in research ethics, abstract development, presentation skills, global studies opportunities, and the practical and ethical applications of artificial intelligence in research. Scholars also visited the FVSU Fabrication Laboratory (FAB Lab), gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.
Looking ahead, the scholars will represent FVSU at the Georgia Undergraduate Research Conference this fall, showcasing their work on a statewide platform.
For more information about the Valley Scholars Program or upcoming research initiatives, please contact the Undergraduate Research Program at FVSU.
*This initiative is supported by the U.S. Department of Education under Title III, Part F, Section 371 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. It is part of the Fort Valley State University Undergraduate Research Academy and Scholars Program: Building Future Leaders in STEAM, led by Project Director Celia Dodd, Ph.D.
