Lillian Bischof, a Wheeling native, who discovered her love for science in sixth grade through the Regional Environment Action Program at Oglebay Park, is anxious to research the role of genetic modification for food security and accessible health care. She will major in chemical engineering and finance and join the Society of Women Engineers and other student organizations that empower women in STEM. She is a four-year member of Wheeling Park High School cross country team, former member of the swim team and as the president of Key Club, she spearheaded a winter weather fundraiser for local homeless youth. She also serves as a docent at the Oglebay Good Zoo. She is the daughter of Deborah and Lee Bischof, a WVU alumnus.
Piper Cook, who will major in biology with an emphasis in neurobiology, made the decision in middle school to become a pediatric neurosurgeon while serving as a volunteer at St. Francis Hospital. After witnessing a swath of destruction from the opioid crises in her hometown of Danville, she is excited to immerse herself in research on deep brain stimulation for the treatment of addiction. She will volunteer her time to WVU Camp Kesem and the Monongalia County Child Advocacy Center. Cook will use her stipend to expand her research on safe non-pharmaceutical alternatives to opioids. She attends Scott High School and is the daughter of Roger and Lisa Cook, who named her after a fictional character from the television series “Charmed.” She is a first-generation college student.