Judges may nominate students for Mastery status. These will be students who, in the opinion of the judges, have "mastered" the Graduation Project- the ones who demonstrate a higher level of enrichment, diligence, consideration, dedication, professionalism, and/or enthusiasm for their Graduation project work. Mastery candidates are not in competition with one another; rather, they are assessed based on their independent work and achievement potential. All candidates who accept their nomination will present once more for a panel of community judges; these judges will make the final decision regarding Mastery designation. All students who receive Mastery status will receive a $100 stipend from the McNair Foundation.