Transforming Young Minds Through Technology: SSU's Verizon Innovative Learning Camp Makes STEM Accessible for All

In the heart of Southern Ohio, something extraordinary is happening at Shawnee State University. Middle school students are designing 3D prints, programming robots, and exploring virtual worlds – all at no cost to their families. As part of Verizon's national initiative to provide digital skills training to 10 million youth by 2030, SSU's Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program is breaking down barriers and changing perceptions about who can succeed in STEM fields.

"The goal of our program is to give students an opportunity to be immersed in a hands-on experience with technology," shares Program Director Kim Ellison. "Our biggest challenge is perception – the perception that the camp is for those already technologically inclined. Our success is that our students express how much fun they have learning new skills and meeting new friends."

The program's impact is evident in its legacy. Now in its eighth summer, several former participants have come full circle – returning to SSU as college students and program mentors, pursuing their own STEM careers. With a remarkable 35% return rate, students eagerly come back each summer to reconnect with friends and explore new technological frontiers.

Through the Design Thinking process, students strengthen their analytical and problem-solving skills – crucial abilities for the workforce of tomorrow. They have opportunities to work with robotics, design and print their own 3D creations, and explore new realms through augmented and virtual reality experiences. Program surveys consistently show that students not only increase their knowledge base and proficiency with technology over the three-week span but also develop an increased desire to learn more about technology-based careers.

"Our hope is that our participants embrace technology and stay curious about new technological developments and new career opportunities that come with these advancements," Ellison explains. The program creates a pipeline for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, and importantly, no prior knowledge or experience is required.

The free three-week summer program, hosted at Shawnee State University, is open to all students in grades 6-8. Through hands-on experiences in design thinking, 3D printing, augmented reality, social entrepreneurship, and mentorship, students discover the endless possibilities that STEM education can offer. At SSU's Verizon Innovative Learning Camp, we're not just teaching technology – we're inspiring the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders. As we look toward Summer 2025, we invite middle school students to join us in this transformative experience.

For more information about the Summer 2025 program, contact Kim Ellison at kellison@shawnee.edu or (740) 351-3477.