DRS senior named a Siemens regional finalist

Tzvi Heimowitz, a senior at Davis Renov Stahler (DRS) Yeshiva High School for Boys in Woodmere, was named a regional finalist in the 2016 Siemens Math, Science and Technology Competition.

Heimowtiz is the only male yeshiva student to be named a regional finalist in this year’s competition. It is the second consecutive year DRS has a regional finalist. Last year, it was David Herman.

Heimowitz conducted his research during the summer at Stony Brook University’s Garcia Research Center, where he focused on hydrogen fuel cells. A fuel cell is an electrochemical energy conversion device and converts hydrogen and oxygen into water, eventually producing energy in the form of electricity.

“I really enjoy chemistry. It’s very interesting and relatable,” he said. “Being able to research something that will help the earth become a greener place is something I’m really passionate about and this project was really perfect for me.”

Nearly 1,800 other students entered the competition and 466 projects were selected from the pool and declared regional semifinalists. The top 96 entries were designated as regional finalists. Heimowitz now presents his research to a group of judges later this year. Winners of the regional events move on to the national finals at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., Dec. 5-6, where $500,000 in scholarships will be awarded, including two top prizes of $100,000.

“We are so proud of Tzvi’s accomplishment, which is a result of his acumen, hard work and perseverance,” said Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky. “When you speak to Tzvi about his project, you get a sense of his command of his project, and his natural curiosity about chemistry. His project was a great fit for him, and he benefited from great mentors during the project and in presenting his project. He is truly a credit to DRS.”