CAENS Summer Programs

Forestry and Natural Resources (FNR)

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Tuskegee University Pre-College Summer Programs in Forestry, Natural Resources and Related STEM Areas:

For decades, Tuskegee University College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences has been committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability.  With this mind, in 2016 TU launched three summer programs for students interested in forestry, natural resources and related STEM areas, including the Forestry and Natural Resources Tuskegee Research Enrichment Camp Summer Institute (FNR-TREK), which will be held on June 7-20, 2026.  The program creates an awareness of the educational and career opportunities that are available in Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture and Mathematics and related areas through hands-on research, leadership development and personal enrichment activities with an emphasis on climate change and sustainability. Applications are currently being accepted through March 31, 2026​ by which time all application materials must be received for priority consideration.

FNR-Trek Program Information

Overview

Overview

Program Dates: June 7–20, 2026

Tuskegee University Pre-College Summer Programs in Forestry, Natural Resources and related STEM areas provide hands-on learning, leadership development, and enrichment experiences that help students explore careers in forestry, wildlife, fisheries, aquatics, and environmental sciences. These programs are hosted through the College of Agriculture, Environment and Nutrition Sciences (CAENS) and are designed to build awareness and prepare the next generation of natural resource stewards.

FNR-TREK Overview

Forestry & Natural Resources Tuskegee Research Enrichment Camp (FNR-TREK) Summer Institute is a two-week summer experience for high school students (grades 9–12). Participants explore forestry and natural resources through engaging activities, research exposure, and outdoor learning experiences that emphasize stewardship, sustainability, and climate awareness.

FNR Day Camp Overview

The Forestry & Natural Resources (FNR) Day Camp is a multi-day experience focused on underrepresented youth through team building and experiential learning. Students participate in academic and outdoor exploration that highlights natural resource conservation and related careers. The program also supports educator engagement through targeted learning experiences that connect forests, ecology, and outdoor classroom activities.

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Program Experience

Program Experience

  • Hands-on learning and outdoor field experiences
  • Forestry, wildlife, fisheries, and aquatic science exposure
  • Team-building and leadership development activities
  • Campus-based learning and supervised residence hall experience (when applicable)
  • Structured schedules with staff and counselor support throughout the program

Housing & Daily Life

  • Participants may be housed in Tuskegee University dormitories during the program (when residential).
  • Program counselors are housed with participants and provide 24/7 supervision and support.
  • Meal plan is typically provided while participants are housed on campus (three meals/day).

Stipend

Stipend

Participants may be eligible for a small stipend (up to $200) to help defray travel costs to Tuskegee University. Transportation to/from the program is the responsibility of the participant and their parent/guardian.

Application Deadline

Application Deadline

FNR-TREK (2026): Priority consideration deadline is March 31, 2026 (all required materials must be received by this date).

Counselor Application (2026): Deadline is April 5, 2026.

Selected applicants will be notified on or before the program notification date listed in the application materials (when available).

How to Apply

How to Apply

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a completed online application and any required supplemental documents by the deadline for priority consideration. Program details, required documents, and instructions are provided within the application.

Note: Participants may not attend multiple Tuskegee University summer programs during the same summer if restricted by program policy (see FAQs).

Contact Information

Feel Free to contact us for more information:

Forestry & Natural Resources Day Camp / FNR-TREK Summer Institute

Dr. Rashidah Farid, Program Director
Phone:(334)-727-8625
Email: rfarid@tuskegee.edu

Ashley M. Wiseman
Room 205, Mary Starke Harper Hall
Phone:(404) 490-8174
Email: awiseman@tuskegee.edu

GREP Program

Dr. Joseph Essamuah-Quansah, Program Director
Phone: (334)-727-8419
Email: quansahj@tuskegee.edu

FAQs

FAQs

Who can apply?

FNR-TREK: Students in grades 9–12 who will be returning to high school in Fall 2026 are eligible to apply. FNR Day Camp: Students aged 12–14 years or who have completed the 7th or 8th grade (as of May 31, 2026) are eligible to apply.

How much does it cost?

Programs are typically free; however, participants are responsible for transportation to/from Tuskegee University for program start and end times.

Is travel provided?

Travel to/from the program is not provided. Participants may receive a small stipend (up to $200) to help defray travel costs.

Where will participants be housed?

When the program is residential, participants are housed in Tuskegee University dormitories and supervised by program counselors housed with participants.

Can I bring a car?

Participants may not bring a car to the program.

What about medical coverage?

Participants are not covered by standard university medical coverage and must provide insurance information and required waivers prior to program start.

What should I bring?

Items to Bring

  • Bedding for a twin-sized bed (blanket/comforter, sheets)
  • Pillow(s) and pillowcase(s)
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Toiletries (deodorant, toothpaste/brush, etc.)
  • Shower shoes (flip-flops) and shower cap
  • Comfortable clothing (including one “dressy” outfit)
  • Comfortable shoes (sneakers/tennis shoes)
  • Umbrella

Items Not Allowed

Microwaves, hot plates, electrical grills, toasters, other heating appliances, extension cords, pets, candles, incense, and furniture.

Become a Counselor

Become a Counselor

Program counselors are essential to the success of these summer programs. Counselors are typically current college students or recent graduates who support staff and help facilitate activities throughout the program. Counselors provide 24/7 support, must complete a one-day counselor training session prior to the start of the program, and should demonstrate strong leadership skills.

To be considered for 2026, complete and submit the following by April 5, 2026:

Eligibility

Eligibility

  • FNR-TREK: Students in grades 9–12 returning to high school in Fall 2026.
  • FNR Day Camp: Students aged 12–14 or who completed 7th/8th grade by May 31, 2026.
  • Participants must follow program participation rules and submit all required materials by the deadlines.

Other Summer Programs

Other Summer Programs

Explore additional Tuskegee University summer opportunities here: Click here to view Other Summer Programs

Learn more about CAENS: Click here for information about the College