Gary Students Soar Toward STEM Futures: 10 High School Seniors Awarded Boeing STEM Scholarships

Seven West Side Leadership Academy Scholars Among Select Recipients

Gary’s brightest future innovators were celebrated on Monday, May 4, 2026, during Boeing STEM Signing Day, where 10 outstanding high school seniors were awarded prestigious Boeing STEM Scholarships for their academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Chosen from more than 60 applicants, these exceptional students have demonstrated both the drive and vision to pursue futures that will advance technology, renewable energy, infrastructure, and innovative solutions that improve communities and quality of life.

Among the 10 scholarship recipients, seven scholars will be graduating from West Side Leadership Academy (WSLA), a remarkable testament to the school’s commitment to preparing students for high-demand, future-focused careers.

Leading this distinguished group are West Side Leadership Academy’s highest-ranking academic scholars:

• Valedictorian Jamey Jones, committed to Morehouse College 
• Salutatorian Kaylin Quarles, committed to Clark Atlanta University 

These students exemplify the excellence, perseverance, and ambition that continue to define Gary’s next generation of changemakers.

“This moment is a celebration of brilliance, hard work, and what is possible when our students are given access to opportunity,” said Dr. Yvonne Stokes, Superintendent of Gary Community School Corporation. “These scholars are not only preparing for their own futures—they are preparing to become innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders who will shape technology, sustainable energy, and stronger communities for generations to come. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and excited to see how they will transform the world.”

Michael Suggs, Chief Operating Officer for the City of Gary and Gary Community School Corporation Board President, offered students words of encouragement centered on urgency, vision, and seizing opportunity.

“You never know what opportunity is right beside you. The next five years will demonstrate who you will be for the rest of your life. What you do now matters, and the choices you make today can shape not only your future, but the future of your family, your city, and your community.”

Boeing STEM Signing Day serves as more than a scholarship ceremony—it is a launchpad for future engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Through this investment, Boeing continues to support students whose aspirations align with solving real-world challenges and driving technological progress.

Gary Community School Corporation proudly celebrates all 10 scholarship recipients and applauds the extraordinary representation from West Side Leadership Academy. Their achievements reflect not only personal success, but the power of education, mentorship, and opportunity to inspire transformation.

The 2026 Boeing Scholarship recipients are: 

• Jamey Jones (West Side Leadership Academy)
•  Devin Thomas (West Side Leadership Academy)
• Saniyha Johnson (West Side Leadership Academy)
• Julian Holmes (West Side Leadership Academy)
• Kaylin Quarles (West Side Leadership Academy)
• Elizabeth Januska (West Side Leadership Academy)
• Mykah Trotter (West Side Leadership Academy)
• Jorriah Pierce (Steel City Academy)
• Ivan Lyons (Gary Lighthouse College Prep Academy)
• Talia Edwards (Gary Lighthouse College Prep Academy)

As these scholars prepare to begin their collegiate journeys, they carry with them the support of an entire community and the promise of a brighter future fueled by innovation, determination, and purpose.

About Gary Community School Corporation

Gary Community School Corporation is committed to cultivating excellence through innovative learning, meaningful partnerships, and student-centered opportunities that empower every scholar to thrive in college, careers, and life.

For the latest district news, please visit garyschools.org.