Free annual program engages East Central Indiana middle and high school students through hands-on learning, local business partnerships, and career exploration.
MUNCIE, IN — Ivy Tech Community College recently hosted 28 area middle and high school students at the John and Janice Fisher Building for its annual STEM Camp. The free, five-day program provides local students with a dynamic, hands-on introduction to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), empowering young women across Delaware County to explore technical fields in an engaging, supportive, and collaborative environment.
“The reason I always come back is because everybody who comes to STEM Camp is always just so uplifting, always there for you, always willing to help, and the leaders are just absolutely amazing. It feels like everybody’s my friend all at once,” said Caylee Day, a fourth-year STEM Camper and senior at Yorktown High School. “I learn so many new things, how to do things I never knew before, and so much about myself.”
Now in its seventh year, the camp blends rigorous STEM concepts with creative expression and real-world applications.
“Every activity at STEM Camp is intentionally designed to help students see themselves as problem-solvers, innovators, and future leaders. We want every young woman to leave knowing that she belongs in any room where ideas are created and solutions are discovered,” Ren’a Wagner, Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships, said.
Guided by Ivy Tech faculty, staff, and dedicated community volunteers, this year’s participants took part in an expansive lineup of interactive workshops and team-building challenges:
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Hands-On Engineering & Tech: Assembled working Bluetooth speakers and created wearable, light-reactive color-changing necklaces.
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Problem-Solving & Math Application: Worked in teams to solve math-focused clues and navigate building-wide escape rooms spanning multiple floors of the Fisher Building.
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Applied Science & Sustainability: Formulated personalized skincare products alongside Amanda Kishel of Tallow Skin Care and planted personal fairy gardens.
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Arts, Design, & Personal Branding: Crafted custom 3D cardstock ladybugs, designed tie-dye apparel, glazed Ivy Tech ceramic tiles in partnership with Made in Muncie Pottery, and learned professional self-presentation during a personal branding session.
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Financial & Functional Literacy: Completed practical budgeting exercises and created custom bookmarks with local pop-up shop Ink Drinkers Anonymous.
To foster leadership and camaraderie, campers earned tickets for positive behavior and teamwork, entering them into drawings for games generously donated by Toys Forever Models & Hobbies—who also facilitated a group gaming session during Monday’s lunch.
“STEM Camp is designed to show young women that science, technology, engineering, and math are not only accessible, but deeply creative and relevant to their everyday lives,” said Dr. Qiana Clemens, Vice Chancellor for Academic and Resource Development. “By removing financial barriers and connecting students with inspirational leaders and local business owners, we are helping build the confidence they need to pursue future educational and career paths in STEM.”
The success and accessibility of this year’s camp were made possible through the generous support of community sponsors, including Thrive Credit Union, Northwest Bank, and Classroom Connections. Special thanks also go to Ink Drinkers Anonymous for donating a book to every participant, Toys Forever Models & Hobbies for donating door prizes, and the many local business partners and volunteers who contributed their time and expertise.
To learn more about STEM Camp and other programs offered by the Ivy Tech Community College Muncie campus, email askmuncie@ivytech.edu.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor’s degree.
