Bernadette Latham ’27 is one of only 454 students across the United States to be awarded a 2026 Barry Goldwater Scholarship.
“It’s incredibly empowering to be identified as a part of 'the nation’s next generation of research leaders,'” says Latham, a Neuroscience major and Global Health and Human Biology and Kinesiology double minor. “Winning this award has strengthened my motivation to continue pursuing research and reaffirmed my commitment to women’s brain research.”
Latham earned the scholarship for her research essay, “Exploring the Use of Longitudinal Hyperscanning Designs in Dyadic Neural Synchrony Research,” which focused on her brain imaging research, targeting social impact and methodological advancement.
Latham plans to earn a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and pursue a career in women’s brain research, aiming to inform health policy and improve women’s health. The Goldwater Scholarship Program provides financial support and connects Latham with a national community of researchers.
“I’m so inspired, not only by my cohort, but by Goldwater scholars at all stages of their careers,” Latham says. “I’m honored to be a part of this community and look forward to the learning and collaboration it entails.”
Latham has been part of the Developmental Affective Neuroscience, Culture, and Environment (DANCE) Lab at the University of Minnesota and conducted research alongside Ka Ip, Assistant Professor and Director of DANCE Lab, since May 2025.
She has contributed to a variety of projects, helping to design studies, collect neuroimaging data using fNIRS, analyze data, and complete manuscripts.
Last fall, Latham also volunteered as a research assistant for Weaver on a study investigating sexual dynamics in relationships, helping to finalize the study protocol and begin data collection.
Both research experiences were part of her Goldwater application.
“Winning this scholarship is a testament to not only how far I've come as a researcher but to all the support I have received along the way,” Latham says. “It wouldn’t have been possible without the mentorship and opportunities I have received at both CC and the University of Minnesota.”
The Goldwater Scholarship Program is open to college sophomores and juniors pursuing a career in science, engineering, or math, and covers the cost of tuition, books, and room and board up to $7,500 a year. Honoring Senator Barry Goldwater, the program has awarded a total of 11,616 scholarships since its founding in 1986. This year, 1,485 students were nominated by 482 institutions.
Latham expressed gratitude to Lori Driscoll ’94, Professor of Neuroscience and Psychology, Jason Weaver, Associate Professor of Psychology, and Minho Kim, Goldwater Campus Representative and Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science, for support throughout the scholarship process.
