Two NOVA Manassas Biotechnology students receive National Science Foundation Student Award for Excellence

Michael Sibilo and April Brisky, have been recognized by the National Science Foundation (NSF) with the Award for Excellence at the National Advanced Technological Education (ATE) Principal Investigators Conference in Washington D.C. April Brisky a recent NOVA Graduate with an A.A.S. in Biotechnology (Cum Laude), military veteran and mother of twins is now continuing her journey to success and transferred to The George Washington University (GW) to complete a Bachelor's Degree Program in Integrated Information, Science, and Technology in Biotechnology. She benefited from an articulation agreement between NOVA Biotechnology and GW that facilitated a seamless transition for April to acquire a higher degree. April has a profound interest in the field of Embryology. Michael Sibilo another shining star of the Biotechnology Program is currently enrolled in the A.A.S. in Biotechnology and has a predicted Graduation in Summer 2014. He has dreams of becoming a scientist and practice Stem Cell research, he is extremely motivated and involved with the program, and is actively participating in all outreach initiatives, organizing events, and becoming a future leader of the NOVA Biotechnology club. “Michael’s potential is remarkable, his motivation and excitement are contagious, and I see nothing but a shining future coming his way. I am tremendously proud of Mike”- Said Ia Gomez, Biotechnology Program head at the Manassas campus. Dr. Gomez is the Principal investigator of the NSF ATE grant that was showcased at the National ATE PI Conference this month. The NSF funded NOVA Biotechnology program in experience an exponential growth as a result of the work funded for the past year. Ia Gomez (NOVA Biotechnology Program Head), Alias Smith (NOVA Biotech faculty), Michael Sibilo (NOVA Biotechnology student), and April Brisky (NOVA Biotechnology graduate) showcased the Biotechnology program with great originality and excitement at the NSF ATE PI conference in Washington D.C. this month were both Biotech Students were recognized with the Award for excellence. Congratulations to all.

For more information about the NOVA Biotechnology program, contact Ia Gomez igomez@nvcc.edu