By Megan Coppersmith Szerwo – July 2025
John Bishouty, a dedicated member of Troop 27 (Clarence Center, NY), was honored in June at a Court of Honor Ceremony with the Dr. Bernard Harris Supernova Award, one of the highest recognitions in Scouting America’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) program.
The Supernova Award is presented to Scouts who demonstrate exceptional commitment to STEM learning through coursework, hands-on experiments, and community engagement. The Award honors the Scout’s dedication to and desire to pursue advanced knowledge and excellence in STEM fields.
“I decided to pursue the Supernova because I am interested in STEM and really liked the science experiments,” explained John, a Star Scout (two ranks below Eagle) and 9th grader at Clarence High School.
John completed three Nova modules: Science Shoot!, Engineering Up and Away, and Technology Start Your Engines with his Nova mentor Beth Bivona, a registered Nova counselor.
John conducted three advanced projects with his Supernova mentor Jennifer Pedicone, a registered Supernova counselor, to fulfill the Supernova requirements: conducted a Science Chemistry Explosion by combining Diet Coke and Mentos, toured and researched the Niagara Power Plant, and created a self-made volcano eruption.
John wearing his Supernova medal
“My favorite experiment was the recreation of a volcano eruption,” added John. “I learned it was an acid-base reaction and the mixtures caused a bubbling eruption. The more vinegar the more the eruption!”
John will continue to work with his Supernova mentor, on the Thomas Edison Silver Supernova Award (the second-level Supernova Award).
The Dr. Bernard Harris Supernova Award, named after the first African American astronaut to walk in space, is available to Scouting America members who have achieved First Class rank or above. This award acknowledges their advanced understanding and application of STEM concepts. Scouts who embark on this STEM-centric journey develop a passion for scientific inquiry, problem-solving, and critical thinking that can shape their academic and professional pursuits.
For more information about the Nova Awards, Supernova Awards and Scouting America’s STEM initiatives, contact John Beiter, Great Falls Council STEM Chair, at jrbeiter@rochester.rr.com. For more information about great Scout Troops in your area for boys and girls ages 11-18, visit our Scouts BSA page.
John working on experiment design
Measure twice, cut once!
Volcano success!
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