Ohio University hosted its first Science Olympiad Invitational in 30 years

By: Arielle Teppert
Posted on: Monday, March 3, 2025

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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — Two students at Ohio University brought together 250 high schoolers from across Ohio to compete at the school’s first Science Olympiad Invitational in 30 years.

Co-directors Emily Meckler and Tristan Rieman worked together for the past six months to make their idea a reality.

“It has been a process, but we really wanted to bring an invitational to the Appalachian region. So we thought where better than Ohio University?” said Meckler.

Science Olympiad gives students the hands-on experience to explore careers in robotics, air trajectory, geological mapping and more.

The organization played a pivotal role in Rieman’s career path.

“Science Olympiad has been a defining factor in the professional path that I chose and I hope it ends up being the same for other students,” said Rieman. 

Some participants see the tournament as more than just career exploration.

Abigail Kinney, a junior at Monroe Central High School, said exploring male-dominated fields can be daunting, but she hopes her participation inspires other girls to take on the challenge.

“It’s an empowering feeling to know that I’m not just keeping up but I’m excelling alongside the men,” said Kinney. “It’s girls doing all the same things, at the same level, in the same way.”

Participants expressed that the prep work is hard, but seeing your team improve makes it worthwhile.

Noah Loudner, a junior at Metro Early College High School, said his team has come a long way from last year, but they don’t plan to stop here.

“Last year in air trajectory we didn’t even hit the target. This year we did, so it’s an improvement,” said Loudner. 

Although the tournament is student-focused, teachers experience the benefits firsthand.

Kevin Dael, a mathematics teacher at Alexander High School, said students who participate in Science Olympiad are naturally eager learners.

“All schools should have a Science Olympiad team because students can apply what they learn in the classroom and the real world,” said Dael.

Even though Science Olympiad targets STEM students, there is an event for everyone.

Brian Hoffman, a national event supervisor, explained that every student should try Science Olympiad because it hones critical thinking skills often used in the workforce.

“You can’t just have one skill set. We have students interested in biology, chemistry, journalism and geology,” said Hoffman. “There is something for everyone and that’s the beauty of it.”

Students and staff at Ohio University plan to host more invitationals with hopes of expanding the organization’s reach throughout the Appalachian region.

Kristina Bross, tournament adviser, said she thinks this invitational will be the first of many.

“Emily and Tristan have taken their idea and ran with it,” said Bross. “I believe they will continue to grow the invitational and make it better each year.”