Congratulations to Sriram Sureshkumar (Class of 2025), who was recently named a Scholar of Distinction in Environmental Leadership by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE). Sriram was recognized by MDE for his research on the impact of biochar on produce yield. Sriram shared, “I was able to research and prove my hypothesis that biochar can be used to increase the produce yield as well as combat climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil.”
Sriram recently participated in the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). ISEF is the world’s largest international pre-college science competition, with 1,800 high school students from 75 countries participating. Sriram participated in regional and State competitions to advance to the International event. Sriram's ISEF project focused on the impact of biochar, a solid carbon-rich material, on Martian regolith. This research is significant as it explores the potential of biochar in providing life support sustenance on planet Mars. Sriram shared this about the ISEF experience: “The fair gave me a unique opportunity to interact with high school students from all over the world with passions similar to mine. I also enjoyed listening to scholars and researchers in various fields of science.”
Sriram's passions include technology and science and shared, “I am very passionate about the environment and solving problems to make Earth a better place for humanity.” When asked about his experience at Mahtomedi Public Schools, Sriram shared this, “I came to Mahtomedi in seventh grade. I made friends and found activities that I was interested in. I am who I am because of the support and encouragement that I received from the school community, which made me feel I belonged. I am a proud Zephyr. Go Zephyrs! I am very grateful to all my high school teachers for being exemplary role models and always encouraging me to be my best. Special shout out to Mr. Merthan, Ms. Larson, Ms. Moore, Mr. Lane, Mr. Oswald, Mr. Huss, Mr. Kurkiewicz and Ms. Schmiesing.”