Wentworth Students Honored at Building Bridges Awards and STEM Relaunch

Celebrating Student Achievement

On December 18, 2025, the Wentworth Institute of Technology community gathered at Joe’s Waterfront in Boston to honor student excellence and announce a renewed commitment to STEM education. The evening highlighted the Gregory B. Janey Scholarship, awarded to Richard Cancoule, a standout Wentworth student whose work exemplifies technical skill and community impact. Cancoule’s $2,500 award underscores the university’s dedication to recognizing talent that drives positive change.

In addition to Cancoule, students Eliezer Laforest, Nashanti Moore‑Ellis, and Adriano Di Marco received recognition for their active participation in Building Bridges’ initiatives. Their involvement demonstrates how Wentworth students can leverage campus resources to contribute to broader STEM outreach efforts.

Building Bridges: A Partnership for STEM Access

The Building Bridges Awards ceremony also served as a launchpad for the nonprofit’s refreshed logo and mission. Founded by Gregory Janey, the organization seeks to transform how Black and Brown youth perceive STEM—from resistance to excitement. By partnering with institutions such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston, Boston Public Schools, and the Museum of Science, Building Bridges creates a “cyclical pipeline of learning and leadership” that connects elementary students, university students, and industry professionals.

Wentworth’s Division for Inclusive Excellence has been instrumental in fostering this collaboration. The partnership offers students opportunities to mentor younger learners, participate in outreach events, and gain real‑world experience that complements their academic coursework.

Design and Innovation: The Summer Program

Following the inaugural summer program, participants were challenged to design a logo that symbolizes unity and innovation. Over 40 students from local schools and institutions competed, showcasing creativity and technical proficiency. The competition’s success illustrates how hands‑on projects can bridge classroom learning with community engagement.

Students who excel in design and engineering can apply these skills to real‑world problems, making them attractive candidates for co‑op placements and industry projects. The program also provides a platform for students to build a portfolio that demonstrates both technical and collaborative abilities.

How Wentworth Supports Inclusive Excellence

Wentworth’s commitment to inclusive excellence is evident in its active partnership with Building Bridges. The university offers a range of support services, including mentorship programs, research opportunities, and financial aid tailored to underrepresented students. By integrating community outreach with academic rigor, Wentworth ensures that students receive a holistic educational experience.

Prospective students interested in STEM can benefit from the university’s strong industry connections. Co‑op placements, internships, and faculty‑led research projects provide practical experience that enhances employability upon graduation.

Next Steps for Prospective Students

For students who aspire to join a community that values STEM innovation and inclusive excellence, Wentworth Institute of Technology offers a clear pathway:

• Explore STEM programs: Visit the WIT catalog to review undergraduate and graduate offerings in engineering, computing, and design.
• Apply for undergraduate admission: Submit an application through the online portal and include any relevant extracurricular achievements.
• Schedule a campus visit: Arrange a tour to experience the campus environment and meet faculty and current students.
• Engage with community outreach: Join clubs such as the Student Clubs & Organizations to collaborate on STEM projects and mentorship programs.
• Apply for scholarships: Research available scholarships, including the Gregory B. Janey Scholarship, and submit required materials early.

By following these steps, students can position themselves for a successful academic and professional journey at Wentworth Institute of Technology.

For more information on how to get involved or to discuss your academic interests, schedule a campus visit today. If you have questions about the application process, contact the admissions office. Join the conversation by sharing your experiences in the comments below or exploring related articles on our news page.