HARRISBURG, PA — Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) undergraduate Layla Archeval ’28 has been awarded an American Chemical Society (ACS) Catalyst Scholarship, a national award that provides $10,000 toward the cost of her education with the possibility of renewal in future years.
Hailing from Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, Archeval is a Forensic Science major pursuing dual concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. She learned of the award through Dr. Catherine Santai, dean of HU’s School of Health and Science.
“Dr. Santai encouraged me to apply. I wouldn’t have known it existed otherwise,” said Archeval. “When I found out I won, I was elated, shaking, and relieved. It means I don’t have to worry about how I’m paying for school anymore. That’s a huge burden lifted off my parents and me. Dr. Santai has been an amazing professor and resource for me, and I’m truly grateful she thought I could be competitive.”
About the Award
The ACS Catalyst Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees in chemistry and chemistry-related fields at accredited U.S. institutions. Funds are paid directly to the recipient’s college or university and applied to educational expenses including tuition, fees, and books.
ACS launched the program for the 2026–27 academic year, expanding on three decades of undergraduate scholarship programming that has supported more than 3,500 students entering the chemical sciences.
Dr. Santai noted: “Applicants are evaluated on academic performance, the strength of their preparation in the chemical sciences, and their ability to articulate their goals. It is a privilege to help identify promising students like Layla and to connect them with incredible support structures like the ACS. I know she’s going to do amazing things.”
What’s Next
Archeval credits HU science faculty with easing her return to higher education. “Dr. Santai and Dr. Betty Ferster reignited my love for higher education and made my transition back to college much easier,” she shared.
Outside the classroom, she works and helps raise her niece and nephews. This year, she plans to attend more career events and get more involved in campus life.
After graduation, Archeval plans to pursue a master’s degree in forensic science or move directly into a laboratory position at the state or federal level. Her advice to students entering STEM? “Get familiar with your professors, ask questions, and stay on top of your work before you fall behind. Your professors care about you and want you to succeed. Putting in the effort is worth the outcome.”
More information about the ACS Catalyst Scholarship is available at ACS.org. To learn more about Harrisburg University’s Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science and the different concentration options, visit HarrisburgU.edu or start a conversation with the Admissions Team today.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, analytics, biotechnology, cybersecurity, nursing, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Director of Communications for Harrisburg University, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100 ext. 1724.
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