Lisa Academy - Arkansas Regional Middle School Science Bowl

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Coach Vence Johnson hails from Pine Bluff, Arkansas, where he was born, raised and educated. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the illustrious University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a local HBCU that is rich in history and culture. He later relocated to central Arkansas where he obtained a dual Master degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He has worked at LISA Academy for five years, serving as a middle school science and Biology instructor, as well as the current campus science department chair. When asked what fuels him, he responded, “My students are my why.” His hobbies include cycling, singing, and barbering.

Co-Captain Kaneeka Chakraborty is a native of Little Rock, Arkansas where she attends LISA Academy West Middle School. Kaneeka has goals of becoming a renowned dermatologist some day. Her parents, both of whom are physicians, are her main motivation and motivators. Her hobbies include reading, art, and playing the violin. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis.

Amrita Choudhary is also a seventh-grade student at LISA Academy West Middle School. She enjoys playing the piano, reading, and playing badminton. Amrita has a deep passion for science and math, which is why she chose to join the Science Quiz Bowl and Science Olympiad. Amrita describes herself as fun and outgoing.

Co-Captain Yahya Younus is an eighth-grade student at LISA Academy West Middle School. His passions include robotics and engineering. He enjoys science and loves discussing his new findings with family and friends. His favorite people under the sun are his brothers.

Aarush Gaddi is a seventh-grade student at LISA Academy West Middle School. He has a passion for the sciences, which is ultimately why he decided to compete on his school’s science quiz bowl team.  As his favorite sciences are anatomy and physiology, he is determined to become a doctor. His friends and family motivate him daily to continue trying his best and studying hard. His hobbies include tennis, Boy Scouts of America, and researching science fiction.

Member Sohan Jayappa is also a seventh-grade student at LISA Academy West Middle. Sohan has a flare for math and science and ultimately all things STEM. Sohan enjoys reading. He is also active in several extracurricular activities that keep him occupied outside of school.