MTSEF Mission And Leadership
Guiding students through high-quality research and competition since 1953.
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MTSEF provides middle and high school students the opportunity to present original research to scientists, business leaders, and the public.
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Top finalists advance to national and international competitions, representing our region among the world’s leading student researchers.
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MTSEF is supported by the MTSEF Foundation, an independent Tennessee non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation governed by a volunteer board of professionals and educators.
Mission
The Middle Tennessee Science and Engineering Fair Foundation promotes excellence, equity, and ethics in secondary science and engineering education through project‑based learning and student research.
We achieve this by:
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Supporting the Fair: Showcasing student innovation, inquiry, and integrity in research through the Middle Tennessee Science and Engineering Fair (MTSEF).
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Equity & Teacher Support: Ensuring rural and underserved populations have access to ethical research and project-based learning support.
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Promoting Science Appreciation: Encouraging understanding and appreciation of science as essential to human advancement and problem solving.
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Communication Skills: Helping students develop the ability to communicate scientific ideas effectively to diverse audiences.
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Competition Preparation: Preparing and empowering students to compete and succeed at national and international science competitions.
Together, these efforts strengthen both teachers and students and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers to pursue discovery, innovation, and ethical research for the benefit of society.
Who We Serve
The Middle Tennessee Science & Engineering Fair supports a diverse community of students and educators across the region.
MTSEF Serves:
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Middle and high school students (grades 6–12) across 24 Middle Tennessee counties
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Classroom teachers and STEM educators guiding student research and participation
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Rural and underserved school communities, helping ensure equitable access to STEM opportunities
MTSEF provides students with opportunities to develop research skills, engage with STEM professionals, and compete at regional, national, and international levels.
Board Members
The Middle Tennessee Science & Engineering Fair is supported by the MTSEF Foundation, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of educators and professionals who oversee the fair and support its mission.
All funding directly supports student participation and teacher professional development.
C. Steven Murphree, Ph.D.
Belmont University
Valerie Guenst, Ph.D.
Harpeth Hall School and Vanderbilt University
Nathaniel Freymeyer, Ph.D.
Vanderbilt University
Emily Stafford, MS
Columbia State Community College
Katie Hadzikadunic
Nashville International Academy
Marlene Moxness
Metro Nashville Public Schools
Nicolas Means, Ph.D.
Vanderbilt University
Sarah Huneycutt, Ph.D.
Metro Nashville Public Schools
David Huneycutt, M.D.
HCA Healthcare
Jennifer Gentry, Ph.D.
Yonkers Partners in Education
Gilbert Pitts, Ph.D.
Austin Peay State University
Rachel Baker Richard
Chemours