COMMUNITY
“The highlight of my summer”: Inspiring the next generation of innovators
Not every teen’s ideal summer involves sitting at a lab bench conducting experiments, but for the young scientists taking part in the Valero Young Scientist Program at Texas Biomed, it has been a dream come true.
Texas Biomed has partnered with Valero to offer a comprehensive science education program for rising high school juniors and seniors in San Antonio looking for hands-on laboratory research experience. The program, which aims to spark passion for scientific discovery, offers an invaluable opportunity for students to immerse themselves in cutting-edge scientific research, gain an appreciation for the scientific process and the potential for discovery as they work toward a future in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“We have been absolutely delighted with the success of the Valero Young Scientist Program,” said Rosemary Riggs, Ph.D., Texas Biomed’s Director of Education Outreach Programs. “Our goal was to provide students with insight into the biomedical sciences through advanced lab experiments and to explore career possibilities as they consider their further education and future career paths.”
The students selected for the program included 38% from a low socioeconomic background, 65% identifying as Hispanic/Latino and 62% as female. Twenty-four San Antonio high schools were represented, with students from 17 traditional public schools and seven public charter schools attending. About 45% of the students were from schools with a majority economically disadvantaged population.
Student experiments mirrored the skills currently being employed by Texas Biomed’s scientists, from culturing bacteria to titration to gene editing. They applied these skills in a contact tracing project, which illustrated the real-world implications of the spread of infectious disease and highlighted methods for controlling outbreaks.
“I have so much gratitude and love for the Valero Young Scientist program,” said Amarissa Escamilla, a student at Young Women’s Leadership Academy. “It was truly the highlight of my summer. I appreciate this amazing opportunity.”
Alongside its focus on biomedical science, the program empowers students with new skills in presenting, communication and networking. Each student leaves the program with an up-to-date LinkedIn profile and connections with researchers. Six high school seniors who participated in the inaugural program in 2024 returned in 2025, assuming the roles of assistant lab manager and near-peer mentor to a new cohort of students.
“It is a pleasure and a privilege to work with these curious, intelligent young people,” Dr. Riggs said. “We see them grow in confidence and develop new outlooks on their future. I know the impact of the program will be lifelong.”
Texas Biomed is grateful to Valero for its generous commitment to investing in the future of science and helping to build a pipeline of talented young scientists in San Antonio through this program.