Culture & Leadership Summer Camps

Historical Detectives: Uncovering the Past, Shaping the Future (Grades 5-8)

July 20-24, 2026

Dive into history, literature, and social science to explore how individuals and communities shape society. Students will investigate historical events and social issues, analyze primary sources, and learn how psychology, social work, and civic responsibility intersect with everyday life. Through hands-on projects and creative storytelling, participants will develop critical thinking skills while reflecting on their role as engaged citizens. The camp culminates in a showcase where students present solutions, stories, or initiatives inspired by real-world civic challenges.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 5th-8th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Registration opens in mid-December 2025. Stay tuned.

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Recreation Unlimited

children working on crafts
group photo of students and faculty

Future World Changers: Leaders of Tomorrow (Grades 9-12)

July 20-24, 2026

High school students will explore leadership, advocacy, and community impact through activities grounded in psychology, social work, education, and environmental stewardship. Campers will develop their voice through persuasion workshops, practice conflict resolution, and examine how educators and civic leaders shape stronger communities. Hands-on sessions include nature journaling with a sustainability focus and envisioning future pathways for personal and societal well-being. The camp also features a field experience at Recreation Unlimited, where students participate in wellness-focused team challenges and outdoor problem-solving designed to strengthen their leadership skills. By the end of the week, participants will leave with the confidence and tools to become thoughtful, effective changemakers.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 9th-12th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Registration opens in mid-December 2025. Stay tuned.

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Recreation Unlimited

woman teaching in small class
students making crafts

Humanities in Action: Voices that Shape Society (Grades 9-12)

July 20-24, 2026

This camp highlights the role of literature, history, and culture in shaping society and inspiring change. Students will engage in writing workshops and digital storytelling projects that connect past ideas to present-day issues. Through hands-on exploration of historical sources, participants will craft compelling narratives using modern digital tools. The camp culminates in a showcase of student-created history stories that bring the past to life.

Program Details

Where: Ohio State Marion, Science and Engineering Building  
When: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Cost: $185 (lunch and lab costs are included in the registration fee)  
Eligibility: Applicant must be enrolled as a rising 9th-12th grade student in any United States school. 

Application Procedure 

Registration opens in mid-December 2025. Stay tuned.

If you have questions please email Tiffiny Rye-McCurdy at rye-mccurdy.1@osu.edu.

Ohio State Marion Summer Camp Contributors: Recreation Unlimited

students working with professor Katie braun
English students discuss the design of the cornfield review