# 2026 Project Success Concludes August 14, 2026 - [ Paths to Opportunity ](/news-categories/paths-opportunity) ![The 2026 Project Success cohort of 8 students stand outside Gordon Hall on the steps.](/sites/g/files/omnuum11411/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/2026-08/Project%20Success_2026%20Cohort%20Photo.JPG?itok=kTYqo-as) **Project Success** – a seven-week summer research program for high school juniors and seniors in Boston and Cambridge – concluded this July with a presentation ceremony in a packed Waterhouse Room in Gordon Hall. Lab members, friends, family, and interested community members gathered to hear final research presentations from nine program participants. Presentations showcased the substantial research efforts that Project Success students undertook in biomedical science over the summer. Through the program, participants were placed in a wide range of HMS and HMS-affiliated host labs and worked on dedicated projects. Under the guidance of post-doctoral scholars, graduate students, and research staff, students developed key research skills through exploring cutting-edge topics in biomedical and clinical science. Their projects ranged from morphological analysis of microglial cells in Alzheimer’s disease pathology, to bone fragility in type-1 diabetes and leveraging education to address ableism in pediatric care through the STRIDE program at Boston Children’s Hospital. Project Success is a unique skill-building and exposure opportunity for young people with a passion for science and are eager to explore biomedical science careers. “This program would not be possible without the commitment and enthusiasm of our HMS and HMS-affiliated host labs,” shared Michelle Keenan, the Director Community Education and Engagement at OCCE. “Working under the guidance of principal investigators and mentors who are leaders in their fields provides an invaluable experience. Students become trusted and valued members of the lab team. “ "This program would not be possible without the commitment and enthusiasm of our HMS and HMS-affiliated host labs. Working under the guidance of principal investigators and mentors who are leaders in their fields provides an invaluable experience. Students become trusted and valued members of the lab team." Michelle Keenan Director Community Education and Engagement, OCCE In addition to the lab experience, students participated in weekly STEM group learning seminars and field trips. Students were introduced to the world of radiology through the *Case-Based introduction to Medical Imaging* (CBIMI) program led by radiologist Hina Shah, M.D. Through the course, students learned key concepts in radiology, were introduced to radiology equipment and prepared research presentations on the use of imaging in diagnosing and informing treatment plans. Later, students visited the STRATUS Center for Medical Simulation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital where surgeon Gezzer Ortega, M.D. and surgical residents led students through a number of surgical skill-building tasks. “Through Project Success, students build confidence in their skills as emerging scientists. They start to see themselves as being part of the research community,” shared Avery Normandin, OCCE’s K-12 Program Manager. “Students’ reflections capture this growth, where they recount increased confidence and belonging in science, and a clearer vision for their own futures in STEM fields.” One of this year’s participants reflected, “I’ve learned a lot about the fields of medical and scientific research, and have made powerful connections with other researchers through this program.” Further, students consistently highlighted the value of participating as active members of research laboratories and developing meaningful relationships with mentors and research staff. “This program gave me the opportunity to be exposed in a real lab and crafted my first scientific presentation, which has helped me build onto my confidence as well,” one student noted. “Because of Project Success, I now have a better idea of where I want to end up in the future.” **To learn more about Project Success, or to learn about how you might become involved, please email [projectsuccess\_occe@hms.harvard.edu](mailto:projectsuccess_occe@hms.harvard.edu).** ![A Project Success student uses a bag valve mask on a dummy while a surgical resident monitors his technique.](/sites/g/files/omnuum11411/files/styles/hwp_4_3__480x360/public/2026-09/Photo%202%20%28Credit_%20Avery%20Normandin%29.jpeg?itok=UshUbE_M) ![A Project Success student presents her final presentation in the Waterhouse Room.](/sites/g/files/omnuum11411/files/styles/hwp_4_3__480x360/public/2026-09/Photo%204%20%28Credit_%20Sabrina%20Doshi%29.png?itok=etO6bpZt) ![Project Success students and facilitators pose for a photo.](/sites/g/files/omnuum11411/files/styles/hwp_4_3__480x360/public/2026-09/Photo%205%20%28Credit_%20Michelle%20Keenan%29.jpg?itok=IZJS3y0Z) "Through Project Success, students build confidence in their skills as emerging scientists. They start to see themselves as being part of the research community. Students’ reflections capture this growth, where they recount increased confidence and belonging in science, and a clearer vision for their own futures in STEM fields.” Avery Normandin K-12 Program Manager, OCCE ![A few Project Success students observe a figurine displayed in a glass case at the Harvard Art Museum.](/sites/g/files/omnuum11411/files/styles/hwp_5_4__480x385/public/2026-09/Photo%203%20%28Credit_%20Avery%20Normandin%29.jpeg?itok=FAQkcsBk) ![A Project Success student inserts a breathing tube down a dummy's throat while a surgical resident gestures towards a screen showing the camera inside.](/sites/g/files/omnuum11411/files/styles/hwp_5_4__480x385/public/2026-09/Photo%206%20%28Credit_%20Michelle%20Keenan%29.jpg?itok=0UfO0YGm) Share on:- [ Facebook ](#) - [ Twitter ](#) - [ Linkedin ](#)