[NEW YORK, NY – March 25, 2026] – EXPLR announces the 55 students whose outstanding performance in the National STEM Challenge has earned them the title of National STEM Champions. Among them is local student, Lorena Pachiardi, from Cupeyville School, who will be recognized at the third annual National STEM Festival powered by EXPLR, in Washington, D.C., from June 22-27, 2026.
Each National STEM Champion, along with a parent or guardian, will receive an all-expenses-paid trip, including transportation and lodging. During the Festival, the Champions will present their innovations to leaders from the business, government, and academic worlds, as well as to the general public during the free Build Day exhibition.
With an acceptance rate of less than 5%, the National STEM Festival is one of the most competitive emerging talent platforms in the world. The 2026 cohort represents students from 47 states and four U.S. territories, who are developing solutions in critical areas such as health, energy, and emerging technologies.
During the National STEM Festival, students will present their projects to prominent government and corporate leaders, and will have the opportunity to connect with other exceptional students from across the country.
"The 2026 Champions have raised the bar on what we thought was possible at this stage. They are already building the technologies, treatments, and systems America needs," said Jenny Buccos, Founder and CEO of EXPLR and Co-Director of the National STEM Festival. "The National STEM Festival exists to ensure that those with the power to amplify their work know exactly where to look."
About Lorena Pachiardi's project: Chronic neuroinflammation is the main cause of many neurological diseases, and long-term pharmacological treatments carry severe side effects. Lorena investigated whether quercetin, a natural compound found in soursop, could block the inflammatory process in the blood-brain barrier without those risks. The study uses in vitro models to analyze inflammatory markers and cellular responses after treatment. The results aim to contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
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ABOUT EXPLR EXPLR builds the talent of the future by connecting curiosity with career paths. Students aged 13-19 engage in real-world, career-connected learning through digital content, industry-validated credentials, and in-person events. The ecosystem includes the National STEM Festival®, EXPLR Edge® digital credentials, and programs that enable employers to discover, connect with, and invest in emerging talent. Visit EXPLR.com.