The student: Anthony Drake Williams Jr., 15

School: Hammond High

Special achievement: In October, Anthony presented his research on stem cells at the annual meeting of the Science Engineer Alliance in Gaithersburg. His presentation, "Stem Cells: An Admirable Discovery," earned Anthony a $500 cash prize.

His project: A participant in the Maryland Mathematics, Engineering and Science Achievement Program (MESA), Anthony worked with a mentor - retired biochemist and forensic toxicologist Harold Williams of Columbia - to research literature on stem cells. He studied how they are created, their possible benefits in treating disease and the controversy surrounding stem cell research. "It was a great experience and I'd like to do it again," Anthony said. "I'm going to work more with mentors on presentations."

Other interests: Anthony is a member of the Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP), the BSAP Leadership Council and the NAACP Youth Council.

He also enjoys playing chess.

His plans: After college, Anthony hopes to become an epidemiologist and immunologist.

Who inspires you? "My parents, because they support me and they really see me as being successful in the future."