OUTbio’s recipient of our 2024 Scholarship is:
Cole J. DeMello is a driven trans man on a path to earning a degree in Biotechnology and Genetics at the University of New Haven in Connecticut. Soon to be 19, Cole is passionate about the intersection of science and creativity. His academic pursuits in biotech and genetics reflect his deep curiosity about the natural world and his desire to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in these fields. Outside the classroom, Cole is an artist at heart, spending his free time drawing, sculpting, and painting. He also enjoys outdoor activities like skateboarding, which allow him to stay active and connected to nature.
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Cole's future goals include not only making significant strides in the sciences but also supporting the LGBTQ community. He is proud to be a part of this vibrant group of people and hopes to inspire others with his story, encouraging them to pursue their passions and overcome any obstacles they may face. Through both his studies and personal journey, Cole is determined to be a positive influence on those around him and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive world.
OUTbio's recipient of our inaugural 2023 Scholarship: Jake Benoit:
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Jake Benoit is the recipient of our scholarship for 2023.
He is a senior at Harvard studying Human Developmental and Regenerative Biology, and he works in Prof. Richard Lee's lab. He is a member of a unique project researching how the protein ARRDC4 affects blood sugar regulation—a potential key to understanding and treating diabetes.
As he prepares to apply to medical school, Jake envisions a future not only of pioneering drug research as a physician-scientist but also of championing LGBTQ+ healthcare needs.
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We are delighted to award Jake with our scholarship this year! Congratulations Jake!
OUTbio's recipient of our inaugural 2022 Scholarship:
Sage Widder
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Sage is a Newton South High School graduate and plans to attend Wellesley College, majoring in biochemistry with an Art/Art History minor. We are delighted to award this scholarship based on Sage’s strong academic credentials, LGBTQ advocacy, and leadership in science.
Sage was the co-captain of her high school’s varsity science team, placing well in events such as the Massachusetts Science Olympiad and Envirothon. She participated as a math and science tutor in her school’s tutor programs and outside school. Additionally, she was the co-president of her high school’s Gay Student alliance leading in educational programs to increase the visibility of LGBTQ youth. She’s an artist with an established portfolio utilizing her paints and pigments and was commissioned to do an art installation for Newton Community Pride, and has also worked on set design for South Stage.
Notably, Sage has applied her artistic interests to science education via her research interest in understanding how the accuracy of artistic representations of viruses and biological processes impact students' learning and influence our scientific understanding of these biological systems.
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Sage has strong science and math qualifications and brings a unique artistic perspective. She has worked to increase LGBTQ+ awareness and intends to pursue an advanced scientific degree. We are delighted to award Sage with our scholarship this year! Congratulations, Sage!
