Sarasota tech scholar honored with international STEM award
A Sarasota woman has been recognized on the global stage for her work at the intersection of science, technology, and space exploration.
Kayla Taylor, a Ph.D. student at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, is a recipient of the 2026 Zonta International Women in STEM Award that includes a $10,000 grant to support her research.
“Kayla’s achievements reflect both exceptional academic rigor and a deep commitment to expanding opportunities for women in STEM,” said Marjorie Schmoyer, president of the Zonta Club of Sarasota, which nominated Taylor. “We are proud to support her and to see her recognized on an international level.”
Taylor is pursuing a doctorate in electrical engineering and computer science. Her research examines the role of artificial intelligence in aviation and aerospace systems as well as broader questions of ethics, access, and the future of space and transportation technologies. She holds a bachelor’s degree in astronomy and astrophysics and a master’s degree in aviation with a specialization in space studies, both from Embry-Riddle.
“Support like this makes it possible to continue research that not only advances technology, but also helps ensure those advancements are thoughtful, inclusive, and accessible,” Taylor said.
The Zonta Club of Sarasota, part of Zonta International, works locally to advance the status of women and girls through service, advocacy, and education. For more information, visit zontasarasota.org.
Booker High student receives annual scholarship from WCA
The Women Contemporary Artists recently awarded its 2026 scholarship to Cristal Saavedra-Rivera, a senior at Booker High School.
Saavedra-Rivera will receive a $2,000 award based on her outstanding portfolio, exceptionalinvolvement in community programs and art exhibits, and artist statement. Her work focuses on concept art, a form of visual design used in film, video games, and animation. She calls herself a storyteller through the fantastical worlds she designs.
“One of Cristal’s greatest strengths is her ability to listen attentively and experiment fearlessly and intelligently with her work,” Booker instructor Bill Ferrell said. Saavedra-Rivera will major in illustration at Ringling College of Art and Design.
Women Contemporary Artists – which includes more than 100 artists engaged in visual fine arts – is committed to fostering women’s accomplishments and contributions to the visual fine arts. Visit womencontemporaryartists.com.
Big Waters Land Trust invites submissions for photo contest
Big Waters Land Trust is inviting submissions for its seventh annual Summer Photo Contest celebrating Florida’s natural landscapes.
The event allows photographers of all ages and experience to share work showcasing the natural beauty of the Sunshine State. Jury-selected photos will be exhibited at bigwaterslandtrust.org and at the Big Waters Land Trust Facebook page. The deadline is May 31.
Categories for photos taken within the past year include In Love with the Land for landscapes; Art of Nature for abstract expressions in nature and science; Beautiful Waters for Florida’s rivers, lakes, and coastlines; and It’s a Wild Life celebrating the beauty, grace, and power of Florida’s native species. There is also a Youth Perspective category for photographers 15 and under.
The competition includes prizes for category winners. People’s Choice awards will be determined by vote on Facebook. For details, entry rules, and submission forms, visit bigwaterslandtrust.org/spc26.
Nokomis senior community gains award for living artwork
A living moss wall at a Nokomis senior living community was recently recognized with an international award.
The Goldton at Venice earned was honored by the Interior Plant Scapes Association for a moss wall that the community installed in late 2025. The IPSA is a global organization focused on the craft of interior plant design..
“This wall has been a talking point since the day it went up,” said Laura Blakeman, executive director of The Goldton. “Receiving this recognition from the Interior Plant Scapes Association means the world to our team and to the residents who walk past it every day.” Visit The Goldton website for more information.
Around and about
· Camp Gan Israel, hosted by Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, returns June 1-June 19 with a variety of innovative programming and a focus on friendship, confidence, and fun at Chabad of Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch, 5712 Lorraine Road. Info: chabadofbradenton.com/camp; info@chabadofbradenton.com.
Submissions by Rabbi Elaine Rose Glickman, Su Byron, Nancy Hielscher, Tianna Boswell-Porter, Laura Blakeman and Chanie Bukiet.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota tech scholar earns international STEM award
Reporting by Special to the Herald-Tribune, Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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