Falmouth Academy is proud to announce that Hollis Oliver ’28, a Martha’s Vineyard resident, has earned a first-place award at the prestigious Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair.

Hollis was recognized for his project, “Enzymatic Degradation of Colored PET by Ideonella sakaiensis,” an innovative study exploring biological methods to break down plastic waste.

The Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair brings together top high school researchers from across the Commonwealth, showcasing advanced, student-driven work in science, engineering, and technology. A first-place finish represents one of the highest honors awarded at the statewide level.

“This year’s fair left me with an extraordinary amount of hope, and it was one of the most incredible feelings to be honored among other young people who are enthusiastic about creating a better future,” said Hollis. “It was an amazing opportunity and a valuable chance to reflect on the community that supported me so thoroughly throughout the ups and downs.”

Falmouth Academy students were well represented at the state fair this year. In addition to Hollis, Ari Aretxabaleta ’29, Alden Bank ’29, Bradley Forcier ’27, and Mahnaz Ronan ’28 qualified to present their research.

“The state fair is a wonderful opportunity for students who have dedicated immense amounts of time and effort to their individual projects to share their data and conclusions with five different experts in the field, as well as to meet other enthusiastic science students from around the state and learn about their projects,” said Liza Fox, science faculty member and Science Fair Coordinator. “All of our students enjoyed the event and clearly shared their passion with their judges and peers.”

At Falmouth Academy, students are encouraged to pursue original research and develop ideas through inquiry, experimentation, and mentorship. Hollis’s achievement reflects both his individual curiosity and the school’s commitment to hands-on, real-world learning.

“We are incredibly proud of Hollis and the depth of thinking and initiative his work represents,” said Head of School David Perry. “This is exactly the kind of meaningful, student-driven inquiry we strive to cultivate.”

Hollis’s accomplishment reflects Falmouth Academy’s long-standing tradition of excellence in scientific research, where students engage in independent or collaborative projects that challenge them to think critically and communicate their findings clearly.