Eight young scientists recently gathered at the in Lexington, Ky., to garner feedback from Lexmark scientists and engineers in preparation for the upcoming (Intel ISEF). These students will be among the 17 state and regional winners of the who will represent Kentucky at Intel ISEF, the world’s largest international pre-college science competition held in Phoenix mid-May.

Each student was given the opportunity to present his/her science fair submission and received feedback and pointers from Lexmark employees on how to be better prepared for the competition.

“This was a great opportunity,” said Monica McFadden, a senior at Notre Dame Academy and state science fair winner. “We don’t get to experience things like this that often where we can actually talk to researchers that are in our field. So especially with a lot of us going to college soon, it was nice to have feedback from those who are actually working in the industry that we are considering going into.

The students’ presentations ranged in topics from, “Aromatic Heterocycles as Overcharge Protectors in Lithium-Ion Batteries” to “Further Studies in Biofilm Removal of Wastewater Contaminants.”

“Lexmark is a technology company, so we’re very interested in promoting, being a strong supporter of, a cheerleader of, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education,” said Lexmark Chairman and CEO Paul Rooke.

In addition to hosting the event, Lexmark will be sponsoring the six state winners by providing funding for their travel expenses to Phoenix.

“I’m thrilled and excited to go to Intel,” said Corrine Elliott, a senior at Dunbar High School.  “I’m very grateful for all that Lexmark has done for us.”