STEM High School Students Practice Biotechnology Techniques with HVCC Faculty

February 18, 2025

As part of an ongoing initiative to support the development of a Biotechnology pathway at the Questar III and HVCC STEM High School, Hudson Valley faculty members Dr. Donna Barron and Dr. Julie Friot recently introduced 25 freshman and sophomore students to a variety of lab techniques that are essential skills in the biotechnology field.

During the Wednesday, Feb. 12 session, the STEM high school students learned about the rapidly growing field of biotechnology and completed hands-on lab work, including micropipetting and making measurements to determine concentrations.

The two faculty members were joined by student volunteers Mya Audette, Dennis Murphy and Stephen Fajen, and STEM High teachers Daniel Lewis and Sarah Conway.

On March 5, the STEM High students will continue their exploration of biotechnology when they visit the Biology, Chemistry and Physics labs in the college’s Science Center.

“Seeing our faculty work with the STEM High School students is very exciting,” said HVCC Officer in Charge Louis Coplin. “Not only are the students learning the essential skills of a growing field, they are also being introduced to college-level work that will prepare them for their future academic goals. We truly look forward to continuing this collaboration and fostering the growth of a biotechnology pathway at the STEM High School.”

“Our partnership with Hudson Valley Community College provides our students with invaluable hands-on experience in biotechnology, a field that is shaping the future of science and medicine,” said STEM High School Principal Jennie Mueller. “Opportunities like these not only enhance our students’ technical skills but also inspire them to continue their pursuit of STEM careers. We are grateful to HVCC’s faculty and student volunteers for their mentorship and look forward to expanding this collaboration to further enrich our Biotechnology pathway.”