Yuyu “Winnie” Wei was recently named an Edison Scholar and awarded a $50,000 scholarship from Edison International to pursue science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) in college. A total of 30 other high school seniors in Southern California received this honor annually.
Recognizing the dual nature of solar panel technology—both its substantial environmental advantages and the challenges posed by material degradation and toxic waste disposal—Winnie intends to pursue Applied Mathematics in college to help combat these challenges. Her goal is to analyze data and models that balance sustainability, efficiency and economic viability in solar panel use.
“We are incredibly proud of this scholar, as her dedication to STEM and their commitment to addressing real-world challenges exemplify the profound innovation that defines our district,” stated IUSD Director of STEM Bob Curley. “We look forward to seeing the many more remarkable accomplishments she will achieve and how she will continue to impact our community.”
The Edison Scholars Program awards scholarships to seniors who want to be the makers of tomorrow, working to make a difference.
Learn more about the 2025 Edison Scholars.