03/14/2025

St. Louis, MO (March 14, 2025) - Homegrown talent reigns supreme as a local high school prodigy clinches the Anato-Bee Northwestern Regional Competition title.

This year's north regional winner was Bhavya Agarway, a student from the Parkway School District, marking the second consecutive year that a Missouri student has claimed the top spot.

This also marks the second year Saint Louis University has hosted the regional event on March 8-9, 2025, through its Adventures in Medicine and Science (AIMS) program.

The Anato-Bee provides high school students across the U.S. with a unique opportunity to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in a hands-on, engaging way, focusing on anatomy, embryology, and histology. By participating, students gain a deeper understanding of the biological sciences, which helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

“It was an honor to host this event here at SLU, where we place such a strong emphasis on STEM education as a powerful tool for transformation and understanding the critical role STEM plays in driving innovation, solving complex global challenges, and preparing students for future careers in a rapidly evolving world,” said Laura Jenkins, coordinator of the AIMS program at SLU.

Thirty-six students from the following states: Florida, Texas, Arizona, Washington, California, Indiana, Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Tennessee participated in the Anato-Bee. Agarway will receive a $3,000 scholarship to attend a summer program in anatomical or clinical sciences of her choice, and the runner-up will receive a $1,500 scholarship. Last year’s local winner, Michael Harkins, participated in the Harvard MEDscience Program.

AIMS Program

Since 1991, AIMS has provided anatomy, health and science education outreach for middle and high students. The AIMS program is a Practical Anatomy and Surgical Education component in SLU's School of Medicine Center for Anatomic Science and Education.

 “By integrating outreach programs with STEM education, we provide opportunities for students and communities to engage in hands-on learning, foster curiosity, and develop critical skills needed for success in these fields,” Jenkins said.

One such outreach program is the AIMS Medical and Surgical Procedures Workshop for high school freshmen to incoming college students aged 15-19, which will be held from June 23 to June 27. This workshop will provide an overview of anatomy and an introduction to careers in the healthcare field. Physicians and professionals from various medical specialties will deliver programs in their areas of expertise using auditorium presentations, hands-on laboratory experiences, and group interactions. Students will also view several on-site surgical demonstrations by expert faculty and surgeons from SLU and other local hospitals and universities.

For more information, contact Laura Jenkins at laura.jenkins.1@health.slu.edu. To register for the AIMS Medical and Surgical Procedures Workshop, click here: https://cvent.me/vAWxR9

About SLU School of Medicine

Established in 1836, Saint Louis University School of Medicine has the distinction of awarding the first medical degree west of the Mississippi River. The school educates physicians and biomedical scientists, conducts medical research, and provides health care on a local, national and international level. Research at the school seeks new cures and treatments in five key areas: infectious disease, liver disease, cancer, heart/lung disease, and aging and brain disorders.