DYLAN BOUTENEFF is a senior at Harrison High School, Harrison, NY (Summa Cum Laude, National Honor Society, International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate, International Thespian Society). Since 2024, his scientific research has focused on studying atmospheric bioaerosols by engineering a low-cost methodology. After designing and building a bioaerosol sampling device that could be hung from a drone, his 2025-2026 study examined the diversity of fungi at different altitudes. His 2026-2027 study builds off of the previous year's model, but focuses on particulate matter. In 2026, Dylan was awarded the Environmental Perspiration Award at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF) for demonstrating perseverance and dedication while performing field work.

Dylan's dedication to engineering, science and enriching his world extends far beyond the lab. From putting together his younger brother's toys as a pre-schooler to building a stool with a lathe or redesigning a kitchen fruit bowl,  Dylan has enjoyed designing and building things for as long as he can remember.  Dylan believes the sciences, humanities and service go hand-in-hand.  He gives back to his community by volunteering, including designing and teaching an Engineering program for kids and co-creating a chess-in-the-park program. He is a Public Library Teen Board Leader, a Student Liaison to the Board of Education, and Secretary of the Harrison Playhouse. Dylan is an active member of Chemistry, Physics and Engineering clubs and has also performed in over a dozen plays/musicals. He has been a camp counselor for two years, enjoys hiking, tennis, and thrills like paragliding.