Independent Study project leads to published research

Congratulations to Wyatt Block ’26, whose peer-reviewed manuscript titled “Adaptive Strategies of Nepenthes: A Review,” was published in the quarterly journal of the International Carnivorous Plant Society. Take a look at Wyatt's work here.
By Ian Dinkins, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications

Wyatt Block ’26 authored a peer-reviewed manuscript titled “Adaptive Strategies of Nepenthes: A Review,” which was published in Carnivorous Plant Newsletter, the quarterly journal of the International Carnivorous Plant Society.

The paper was the culmination of an independent study course completed during his junior year under the supervision of Science Department Chair Anne Dervan. The article examined the evolutionary and morphological innovations that enable carnivorous pitcher plants to adapt to their environments. The article was published in the December 2025 issue and can be viewed here.
Back

More USN News

List of 3 news stories.

  • Spring sports season ends with podium finishes, trophies

    The girls lacrosse team ended its season in overtime to become state runner-up. Tennis players Carter Kojetin '29 finished as a state quarterfinalist, Sophie Oliver '26 and Mary Kate Adler '28 finished as state semifinalists, and Veer Kodali '29 and Max Parker '29 finished as state champions. Meanwhile, eight runners competed at the state track and field meet in Knoxville, where Griffin Davidson '27, Caleb Freifeld '28, Drew Zwerner '28, and Jack Fruin '27, sprinted to first in the 4x800m relay and Jack also placed first in the 800m dash.
    Read More
  • Interim Director Juliet Douglas roars with laughter as students hold photos of her on sticks during the High School Awards Assembly on Friday, May 8 in Durnan Auditorium.

    USN creates the Juliet Douglas Endowed Fund for Student Success

    For the entire USN community: an invitation to give in gratitude, in celebration, and in honor of the woman who has given so much to our school. Make a gift at usn.org/giving to support students with needs beyond tuition and honor Interim Director Juliet Douglas.
    Read More
  • The team poses for a photo after competing in the Middle School Quiz Bowl National Championships.

    Middle School Quiz Bowl competes at national championship

    The Middle School Quiz Bowl finished off another successful season with a trip to the Middle School National Championship Tournament in Chicago. The team fought hard and ended the season as a top-100 program in the country, finishing 75th overall. Congratulations to the team on a great performance and to Lucas Lupu ’31, named an All Star for being the fifth-highest scorer nationwide.
    Read More
Archive
USN Mission: 
University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.