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Inspiring New Jersey’s Next Generation of STEM Leaders
The Governor’s STEM Scholars connects the state’s most talented high school and college students with New Jersey’s STEM economy. Through connections in the STEM community, research, and real-world experiences, we prepare the next generation of innovators, engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to lead the Garden State—and the world—into the future.
New Jersey has long been a global hub of innovation, home to breakthroughs in life sciences, telecommunications, clean energy, and beyond. Yet, today’s rapidly evolving STEM workforce demands new approaches to education and talent development.
The Governor’s STEM Scholars was created to meet this moment. By identifying promising young minds from across the state and equipping them with the skills, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in the state’s innovation ecosystem. We’re building a STEM workforce that reflects the full diversity, potential, and ambition of New Jersey.
Our Impact
Since 2013, the Governor’s STEM Scholars has supported over 1,000 students from all 21 New Jersey counties. Our alumni have gone on to attend top universities, launch careers at leading research institutions and companies, and give back to their communities as mentors, educators, and changemakers.
Scholar Testimonials
Yasmine Lalani
- 2025 Scholar
Being a Governor's STEM Scholar helped me see that I belong in STEM. It gave me the confidence to speak up, take initiative, and believe that I have a place in this field.
Sophia Halm
- 2025 Scholar
GSS showed me how innovation can improve communities across NJ and beyond. Collaborating with peers and professionals deepened my passion for STEM, and I’m excited to carry these skills into college and future projects that make a global impact.
Asaad Abdul-Hamid
- 2025 Scholar
GSS helped me combine my love of STEM with my love for NJ. From leading a team of brilliant high school Scholars to discovering exciting local opportunities, this experience showed me how STEM can serve and strengthen our communities.
Gabriel Arias Galvan
- 2025 Scholar
GSS showed me how STEM drives real-world change. I learned that STEM is a powerful tool for advocacy, problem-solving, and service. This experience will shape my future, which I now hope to build right here in NJ.
Leadership
The Governor’s STEM Scholars is a statewide initiative of the Research & Development Council of New Jersey. Our program is guided by an Advisory Council of STEM professionals from academia, industry, and government who help select each year’s Scholars and support the program’s success.