Capstone Scholar Program

Ensworth’s Capstone Scholars program offers upperclassmen the opportunity to design and complete an in-depth, student-driven project for academic credit. All projects are founded upon Ensworth coursework and then progress well above and beyond the typical curriculum. For an entire semester or year, Capstone Scholars immerse themselves in their own "search for truth" as they conduct independent research, which may also include participation in internship programs, workshops, or seminars related to the topic of interest. 

Past Capstone Scholars have explored a wide range of topics, from “Comparing the Protein Expression Between Fibroblast Sarcoma Cells and Normal Cells” to “Creating a Concept Album.” Each Capstone project is supervised by a faculty sponsor, providing another avenue for educators to serve as mentors and invest in the lives of Ensworth students.

“The Capstone program allows students to choose their own path and go their own way with their academics. It allows students to hone in on what they're good at and dive deeper into the academic path of their choosing. Not every school offers a program like this, and it's special that Ensworth gives students this opportunity,” said Elizabeth Larson '25. 
Larson decided to apply for the Capstone program to explore her interest in biology and neuroscience. Her project, “In Vitro Exploration of Brain Injuries: Analyzing GFAP Expression in Glioma Cells,” focuses on the effect of simulated fever exposure on brain cells. 

Larson chose to focus on brain cell research because of a family member’s brain injury. Building on previous Capstone cell culture projects, she grew and tested Glial Cells from a mouse. She then tested the cells for the GFAP protein, which is released after a traumatic brain injury. Through her lab work, Larson aimed to see if this method could be used as a biomarker for severe fever, which can cause traumatic brain injuries. 

With help from her faculty sponsors, Dr. Debeshi Majumdar and Chris Thompson, she designed and carried out her research on campus using special lab equipment such as a CO2 incubator, an autoclave, and a cell culture hood. Majumdar and Thompson were important mentors, providing help and guidance throughout the process. "The most rewarding part has been watching the cells grow and getting to see my research and efforts become real,” Larson said. 

This fall, Larson is attending the University of California, Los Angeles, where she plans to study biology and hopes to continue working in research labs. 

The Capstone process begins junior year, when students discuss their idea with the Capstone Director, choose a faculty member as a sponsor, and then write a formal proposal for consideration. If approved, students complete their independent project during their senior year. All projects culminate with a final artifact and a formal presentation for the Ensworth community, giving students the space to share their experience and knowledge while inspiring future Capstone Scholars.

Ensworth has a long tradition of Capstone projects in various areas, and many former Capstone Scholars have left a legacy. Most recently, Helen Thompson '23 detailed a cell culturing protocol that laid the foundation for current cell culturing projects. Jonathan Smith '22 built a functional wind tunnel, which spans 12 feet in length and stands over 5 feet tall. Sally Seitz '13 returned to Ensworth six years after her playwriting Capstone project to work closely with students on a second production of her original play. These examples show how Capstone projects are more than culminating experiences — they form an essential and inspiring series of grand stepping stones for continued learning and growth for the Capstone Scholar and the Ensworth community.