63rd Annual STS (2003-2004)
Finalists
Craig Louis Auster

NEW YORK
Craig Louis Auster, 17, of Carmel, analyzed phosphorus in the soil of the Guinea Community Archaeology Project as part of the process of reconstructing the lives of the African-Americans who lived in the 19th century Hudson Valley community for his Intel Science Talent Search project in behavioral and social science. Mapping phosphorus concentrations identified property locations where human and food wastes, bone and wood ash were regularly deposited. Craig believes his study, which included historical and archaeological research, shows that one resident, Primus Martin, a former slave, was a community leader who tried to project an image of neatness and cleanliness. Craig is first in his class of 316 at Carmel High School, where he is president of the Human Rights Club, a member of the Spanish National Honor Society and co-editor of the yearbook. He has received the Rensselaer Medal, the Putnam County Youth Bureau Outstanding Volunteer Youth Service Award and the University of Rochester Social Sciences/Humanities Award. The son of Scott and Elizabeth Auster, Craig plans to attend Brown University, earn a Ph.D. and work to improve people's lives and protect their rights.