Hosted by SU’s Center for Extended and Lifelong Learning (CELL), the program incorporates curriculum on leadership, communication, innovation and technology for girls entering sixth, seventh or eighth grade.
Two three-week sessions are scheduled. The first, focusing on science and the environment, is June 18-22, July 16-20 and August 13-17. The second, for arts and humanities, is June 25-29, July 17-21 and August 13-17.
Sessions are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily at SU. Participants have optional supervised activities before and after each sessions. Drop-off time is 7:30-9 a.m. Pick-up time is 4-5:30 p.m.
Participants will learn age-appropriate computer applications, web design, media tools and communication software to empower them to solve problems and expand their technology skills. The academy enhances leadership competence and confidence through engaging, applied projects tackling real community issues.
Highlights include campus tours showcasing SUs’ Information Technology Office, Eastern Shore GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Cooperative, Richard A. Henson Medical Simulation Center, U.S. Green Building Council LEED-certified buildings, beekeeping facilities, neuroscience laboratory, solar energy stations, broadcast production studios, electric art gallery, and Business, Economic and Community Outreach Network (BEACON).
Participants also travel to off-campus sites, such as NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility and regional high-tech businesses, to learn about technology in action.
“The Girls Innovation Academy brings girls to campus, allowing them to envision themselves being young college students, spending their days going to class, studying in the library and having lunch in the campus dining room,” said Mary Angela Baker, CELL director. “If they see it, they can become it.”
Dr. Chrys Egan of the Communication Arts Department directs the program.
“Girls understand technology best when they see it in action,” she said. “We ensure the GIA experience gives them hands-on opportunities to promote their learning and interest in technology.”
Additional instructors include Drs. Louise Anderson of the Music, Theatre and Dance Department; Jessica Clark of the Biological Sciences Department; Deb Dickerson, leadership development expert; Eun-Jeong Han and Kellie Stanfield of the Communication Arts Department; Shawn McEntee of the Sociology Department; Brandye Nobiling of the Health and Sport Sciences Department; Tina Reid of the Nursing Department and Lena Woodis of the Chemistry Department; as well as Christy Harper of the Education Leadership and Graduate Studies Department, Nancy Mitchell of the Environmental Studies Department and Mary-Tyler Upshaw, SU PRESTO performing arts voice instructor.
Cost is $600 for each three-week course, including lunch. To register, visit the CELL website at www.salisbury.edu/cell. For more information contact Molly Riordan at 410-543-6090 or cell@salisbury.edu.
