Riverwood Senior Wins Regional Science, Engineering Fair

SANDY SPRINGS, GA — Riverwood International Charter senior, Viha Umashankar, was awarded first place at the Fulton County Science and Engineering Fair held virtually on Feb. 6. Her project titled “Wind Works: Vertical Axis Wind Turbines for Urban Societies” studied the use of wind turbines in an urban setting. Viha advances to the virtual Georgia Science and Engineering Fair to be held April 25-27.

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines represent a unique form of power-generating technology. Wind power is an area of study toward carbon-neutral sources for electricity production in urban settings.

Viha also earned the ASM Materials Education Award: “Most Outstanding Exhibit in Materials Science.” The award honors the best use of materials in an engineering project at the Fulton County Fair. The ASM Materials Education Foundation provides one award at regional science fairs across the county and focuses on advancing scientific and engineering knowledge through education and research.

Riverwood science department chair Patti Lawrimore said, "We are so incredibly proud of what this young woman has accomplished during this pandemic. Her focus and determination are unparalleled."