SPRINGFIELD, Mo., July 7, 2023 — Drury University’s Summerscape and Drury Leadership Academy camps begin this Sunday, July 9 and run through Sunday, July 16.
Summerscape is a summer program for gifted students who are currently enrolled in grades 6, 7 and 8. The Drury Leadership Academy is geared toward college-bound students who have completed the freshman, sophomore or junior year in high school.
Students at the camps are offered an opportunity to enhance their areas of interest, to investigate new ideas and to interact with their peers in a caring, safe, and fun learning environment. They also learn about and practice leadership skills which will enhance their quality of life and prepare them to assume future leadership roles in our society.
This year Drury will not only host students from across Missouri, but students will also travel from Alaska, New York, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas to attend the camps.
“As we witness students from different corners of the country converging in Springfield, we are reminded of the power of education. These camps create an environment where students not only learn from esteemed educators but also create a dynamic environment where ideas are shared, perspectives are broadened and lifelong connections are forged,” says Director of Drury’s Center for Gifted Education, Mary Potthoff. “It is through experiences like these that we build a strong foundation for the future, equipping these exceptional students with the knowledge, skills and relationships they need to become leaders and change-makers in their communities.”
Drury’s Center for Gifted Education has provided programming for gifted children, their families and educators since 1981. This year there are five students attending that are children of past campers. One parent, Ariele Lee says, “Even though I have not been a camper for years, I am thrilled my child gets to have the same experiences.” The families will be on campus this Sunday, July 9, 2 p.m. for check-in. Some have agreed to speak to media.
Donations from The Schneider Foundation are used to support the camps. The Schneider Foundation was founded in 1989 by Henry and Jane Schneider, who were both graduates of Drury. Through their foundation, they are committed to supporting education and empowering students to reach their full potential.
There is no deadline to register for the camps unless you are applying for scholarships. For more information go to https://www.drury.edu/gifted-education/ or contact Potthoff at (417) 873-7386 or (417) 885-8089.
