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George Mason University

VALHEN STEM Academy

Valhen2023

The 2025 VALHEN STEM Academy application cycle will open on February 1, 2025.

George Mason University is excited to partner with the Virginia Latino Higher Education Network (VALHEN) to offer the VALHEN STEM Academy.  This unique pre-college experience offers selected participants a series of interactive and hands-on sessions across a wide range of STEM disciplines, held in Mason’s cutting-edge labs and facilities. The VALHEN STEM Academy is open to all rising high school sophomores and juniors enrolled in a public or private high school in Virginia (9th and 10th graders at the time of application).  The program’s fun, innovative format connects today’s high school students to the STEM majors and careers of tomorrow.  All are welcome, and we strongly encourage participants from communities underrepresented in the STEM workforce to apply.

When: July 30 through August 1, 2025
Where: George Mason University's Fairfax Campus

The 2025 STEM academy theme is Sustainability in Action. Participants will design solutions to complex, global challenges, developing essential research, problem-solving, and science communication skills.

Participants in this program will:

  • Attend university lectures and complete hands-on STEM challenges across science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines, facilitated by George Mason University faculty.
  • Collaborate with VSA Guides and fellow students on group research projects addressing real-world global challenges such as hunger, access to clean water, pollution, and climate change.
  • Explore 21st Century STEM postsecondary and career pathways.
  • Connect with STEM faculty and professionals, and VSA peer guides.
  • Connect with students from across Virginia who are equally passionate about STEM and sustainability.

This program is free for selected students. Participants reside overnight on campus for two nights (double occupancy in a suite dormitory setting with an interior, shared bathroom). A limited number of non-residential (day-only) slots are also available. Bed linens, meals, and a daily snack are provided for the duration of the program.  Selected students must provide their own transportation to/from the VALHEN STEM Academy.

Questions? Please contact the STEM Academy Director, Kerin Hilker-Balkissoon at khilkerb@gmu.edu.