Science Takes Center Stage

Where can you see birds of prey fly across a classroom or watch a live knee replacement surgery? At Bexley High School of course when the annual Judah Folkman MD Scientist in Residence Program is held. The program is made possible each year by the Dr. Judah Folkman Science Fund, an endowed fund of the Bexley Education Foundation. The fund honors Dr. Judah Folkman, a 1950 Bexley High School graduate and brilliant physician and scientist who is recognized for his groundbreaking cancer research.  

Netta Gurari, PhD, ‘00, Assistant Professor, Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech

Since the program began in 2000, physicians, scientists and researchers have come from across the country to participate, including many Bexley High School alumni.  Past programs have included exploration in the areas of: alternative fuel sources, emergency medicine, forensic medicine and crime scene investigation, environmental science, cardiology, orthopedics, nuclear medicine, oncology and stress-related illnesses, climate change and genetics.  

Dr. Frederic Bertley, CEO of COSI who served as last year's Folkman Scientist in Residence

This year’s program will be held on October 4 and with astronomy as the focus in recognition of the total solar eclipse occurring on April 8, 2024. Featured presenter is Don Stevens, Director of Ohio Wesleyan University’s Perkins Observatory. As the observatory’s resident astrophysicist, Stevens runs the 32” Schottland Telescope and gives astronomy and science lectures in addition to hosting public programs at the observatory most Friday nights. 

Curtis Henn, MD, ‘01, Orthopedic Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

As with all of the Scientist in Residence programs, the goal is to inform and inspire Bexley High School students about the exciting opportunities available for careers in the science field.