Chapman Welcomes Over 800 Students and Families to Annual OCSEF Event Orange County Science and Engineering Fair returns to Chapman

April 21, 2023

On Sunday, March 19, Chapman University hosted the Orange County Science and Engineering Fair (OCSEF) to announce the winners, in person, for the first time since 2019. With over 1300 applications and 500 student entries submitted, students were recognized for achievements in over 20 different board categories and 21 special award prizes.

Along with student celebration, the OCSEF recognized several impactful educators associated with the program. One of those honored was Schmid College’s Assistant Director of External Relations, Elaine Schwartz, who was recognized as Partner of the Year for the foundation.

Assistant Professor and Program Advisor for Biological Sciences Jeremey Hsu, who joined the board of directors for the OCSEF program in 2022, moderated the event.

Dr. Elaine Schwartz (left) and Dr. Jeremy Hsu (right)

Professor Hsu presented Professor Elaine Schwartz with the Partner of the Year award at this year’s ceremony.

“It has been such a privilege being involved with OCSEF – I’m always inspired by and amazed at the creativity, passion, and innovation our local middle school and high school students display when sharing their projects,” said Hsu. “The awards ceremony was a terrific way to honor each student’s contributions to STEM and hopefully inspire them to continue pursuing their interests in these fields. It was also amazing seeing a diversity of students from across Orange County attend and be recognized at the ceremony – it’s a testament to the fantastic job my colleagues at OCSEF have been doing with the many outreach events and programs we have started. It was so wonderful being able to interact with so many students, families, and teachers that day.”

Congratulations to all the students and Chapman faculty who were recognized during this year’s event. Thank you to the OCSEF event organizers, board of directors, and Chapman University community members for bringing the celebration to life.

“It has been such a privilege being involved with OCSEF – I’m always inspired by and amazed at the creativity, passion, and innovation our local middle school and high school students display when sharing their projects!”