Vail, Colorado, June 27, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Steadman Philippon Research Institute (SPRI) is offering 20 Eagle County high school students a very unique, hands-on educational opportunity. The new Summer Scholars Program takes place June 25-29 and is designed to inspire young people to pursue a career in science. The announcement was made today by Senenne Philippon, founder and chair of SPRI’s Education and Public Outreach Committee (EPOC).
Each Eagle County High School selected five students, all rising seniors and rising college freshmen, to participate in the Summer Scholars Program, the newest offering of EPOC.
“The goal of the Summer Scholars program is to challenge and inspire young people,” said Senenne Philippon. “Many years ago when my son was in fifth grade, his class came to SPRI for a tour. I saw how interested and excited Marc and his classmates were as they spent time in the labs. It occurred to me that we have these world-class research facilities here at SPRI and we must find a way for more local students to not just see the labs, but to also have a real research experience here.
“Being with our researchers and physicians in an intensive, five-day program will certainly motivate these students and we hope to ignite their passion for using science to help people live healthier, more active lives.”
Over the course of the week, the Summer Scholars will be immersed in science and research. They will work with scientist mentors and have access to the state-of-the-art, high-tech research and surgical education labs at SPRI. The week culminates with student project presentations to their SPRI mentors.
“Our scientists and physicians thoroughly enjoy working with students through EPOC,” said Dr. Travis Turnbull, the deputy director of biomedical engineering at SPRI. “The new Summer Scholars program takes our commitment to another level. It will be a memorable experience for the students, but also for our doctors and staff, who enjoy giving back to our community in ways only SPRI can.”
Through the EPOC program, Steadman Philippon Research Institute works with hundreds of Eagle County students every year, from fifth grade through high school, and now with the Summer Scholars program, reaches even more students. Organizers are hoping to grow the Summer Scholars program to include more students in the years ahead.
Attachments
Lynda Sampson Steadman Philippon Research Institute 970-479-1563 lsampson@sprivail.org
