Primis Honors Future Innovators at Fourth Sheflett Memorial STEM Challenge

Largo High School Takes Top Prize for AI-Powered Customer Retention Solution

RICHMOND, V.a. – Primis Bank has wrapped up its fourth rendition of the Sheflett Memorial STEM Challenge, an initiative that united high school and college students from across Virginia and Maryland to tackle a complex, real-world banking problem using artificial intelligence and data science. The competition, named in memory of the late George “Cody” Sheflett Jr., who served as the bank’s chief information officer and was a tireless advocate for advancing technology education, continues to highlight Primis’ commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators—especially women and minorities pursuing STEM careers.

In this year’s challenge, students were asked to design and present a machine learning solution to help banks predict and prevent customer churn—an issue that costs financial institutions significantly more in acquisition than retention. Over several weeks, teams collaborated across institutions to analyze customer data, score churn probability, map customer journeys, and build ethical, AI-driven retention strategies. Their work was evaluated by a panel of Primis executives and technologists.

“This challenge is the perfect representation of what we stand for at Primis,” said Diane Beirne, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility. “We’re passionate about creating real opportunities for women and minorities in STEM, and we couldn’t be prouder of the innovation, collaboration and drive these students brought to the table. They embraced the challenge with professionalism and purpose—and it was inspiring to witness.”

Three student teams earned top honors at the event’s final presentation showcase:

• First Place: Largo High School – Awarded $500 scholarships per student
  
• Second Place: Appomattox Regional Governor’s School & Virginia State University – $250 scholarships per student
  
• Third Place: Chesapeake Bay Governor’s School & Rappahannock Community College – $100 scholarships per student
  

In recognition of their dedication to STEM advancement, Primis is also awarding $2,000 to each of the five participating schools, totaling $10,000, to support ongoing STEM programming and resources.

“At Primis, our mission is to provide unrivaled solutions—for our customers, our communities and our future,” said Dennis Zember, CEO of Primis. “That starts with investing in people. These students didn’t just learn—they led, and we’re honored to support their continued growth.”

The Sheflett Memorial STEM Challenge reflects one of Primis’ core community engagement pillars: advancing STEM opportunities for women and minorities. By creating meaningful academic partnerships and challenges, Primis is helping students gain real-world experience and drive change through technology and innovation.

For more on Primis’ community initiatives, visit primisbank.com/community.