Since he can remember, Ian Howard, a graduate from Lafayette High School, always wanted to pursue an education and career in science. Now his dream is coming true.  

 Set to double major in biology and integrative conservation at William & Mary starting this fall, Ian is drawing on his passion for the outdoors and an interest in history spurred by courses taken at Lafayette High.  He is especially excited about funding he will receive to undertake original research at college as a James Monroe Scholar, an honor offered to less than 10 percent of William & Mary undergrads. Experiences at Lafayette and the Governor’s School for Science and Technology prepared Ian for college and beyond.   

“The Governor’s School gave me lots of hands-on work in labs and experience writing a scientific paper while still in high school,” said Ian. Combined with his recent research project on fish populations through a mentorship with Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS), Ian feels he has a head start. 

Being a scout and taking rustic vacations with his family helped grow Ian’s appreciation for nature while taking Advanced Placement U.S. and African American History provided insights into ways cultures and communities can affect conservation efforts.  

“I see myself traveling to other places to do research about something in the wild,” said Ian, who is especially excited about William & Mary’s overseas research conducted in places like Madagascar, the Galapagos Islands, and Australia.  

Ian’s future is wide open as he chases his interests and dreams into the wilderness from his starting point here in Williamsburg.  

Stay tuned for a series highlighting some of our Class of 2023 graduates, their remarkable achievements, and the unique paths that lie ahead of them!