WORCESTER—At Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the capstone isn’t a test—it’s a problem.
Five undergraduate teams have been named finalists for the university’s 2025 President’s Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) Awards, an annual honor recognizing projects that stand out for their focus on science, technology and society, according to a university announcement.
Each year, hundreds of IQPs are completed as part of WPI’s graduation requirements. A smaller group is submitted for award consideration and finalists present their work before a panel of judges who determine the winners.
The IQP is a required, semester-long project in which third-year students work in interdisciplinary teams to address a real-world issue at the intersection of science and society. Projects are conducted through more than 50 global project centers and are designed to produce research and practical, sustainable solutions for community partners.
Among the finalists are Michael Troiano of Worcester, a member of the Class of 2026 majoring in aerospace engineering. His team’s project, “Growing Together: Strengthening La Conde’s Community Kitchen and Support Networks through Gardening,” focuses on bolstering community resources.
Also recognized is Kady Le of Worcester, a biomedical engineering major in the Class of 2026. Her team’s project, “Path to Purpose: A Self-Actualization Game,” explores personal development through an interactive format.
The President’s IQP Awards are presented annually to teams whose work is deemed outstanding in its engagement with the social dimensions of science and technology, the university said.
Go here for the full list of finalists.
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