Nebraska EPSCoR and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's College of Education and Human Sciences are proud to announce the 2010 ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The theme of the camp will be "Extraordinary H2O! Satisfy your thirst for knowledge with SCIENCE!" The dates of the camp are June 20-July 2, 2010.

The ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp (EMBHSSC) is a free, academic program of The Harris Foundation, which takes an active role in shaping education in students entering grade 6, 7, or 8 in the fall of 2010. Science, technology, engineering and mathematics are critical to society's infrastructure for the 21st century and preserving that future requires an investment, such as the EMBHSSC, in our youth today.

We are seeking 48 exceptional future scientists to begin the learning adventure this summer! Students from Lincoln or Omaha schools are invited to apply for this two-week residential camp. Selection will be based on academic commitment (not necessarily performance), an application, essay, and two teacher recommendations. We particularly hope to receive applications from students who belong to populations who are traditionally underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The Exxon Mobil and Bernard Harris Foundations provide scholarships for the full cost of the camp's education program, field trips, food and lodging for those selected to participate.

This website provides more information about the camp and the application process. If you have questions or need more information, please contact Sarah Zulkoski-Benson, Executive Camp Director, at 402-472-8946 or e-mail szulkoski-benson2@unl.edu. The Camp Program Director is Deirdra Washington, Science Supervisor with the Omaha Public Schools. She can be contacted at 402-557-2618 or deirdra.washington@ops.org. The EMBHSSC at UNL is a team effort of ExxonMobil, The Harris Foundation, Nebraska EPSCoR, and UNL's College of Education and Human Sciences.

What does it Cost?

Thanks to the generosity of ExxonMobil and The Harris Foundation, participation in this summer camp is FREE! However, space is limited, and applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible and pay close attention to application details and requirements.

Who is eligible and how do I apply?

Applicants must be enrolled as a current 5th, 6th, or 7th grader, as of spring 2010, in a Lincoln or Omaha school. 2009 EMBHSSC UNL attendees are not eligible to apply for the 2010 camp.

We hope to receive applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics and/or qualify for free or reduced prices school lunches according to federal guidelines. All are encouraged to apply.

Interested students and parents should download the application materials and submit them by Friday, April 23, 2010. Space is limited so applicants are encouraged to carefully consider all application requirements and submit them as soon as possible. Complete applications will be reviewed and invitations extended beginning Friday, April 30, 2010.

EMBHSSC UNL application materials are available on the Forms Page.

Where will I stay?

Participants and residential staff live and dine in a UNL Residence Hall. Students invited to attend will be mailed more detailed information on what they will need to bring with them for their stay during the program.

***Students will check out of the dorms on Friday, June 25, return home for the weekend, and check in for the second week of camp on Sunday, June 27. Parents or guardians will need to arrange transportation for students and ensure they can check-in and check-out at the designated times.

What about housing and supervision?

Students are well cared for during their EMBHSSC experience. The Camp Executive Program Director and a team of residential counselors, university faculty and graduate students, teachers, and diverse, community chaperones work together to provide an academically stimulating, enjoyable, and safe week for each student. Activities are led by teams of experienced science teachers, teachers in training, and University faculty and graduate students.