Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Strategic Communications
The Tuskegee Renaissance Era remains in full swing during the summer, as scholarship, innovation and community outreach continue to define the university’s commitment to academic rigor that equips current and future students to compete in a global workforce.
This summer, Tuskegee University is offering an expansive lineup of programs designed to support students across grade levels—from elementary school through college—while strengthening pathways in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), education, and professional development. These initiatives collectively provide hands-on learning, research opportunities, and early exposure to career pathways, reinforcing the university’s commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
The summer season began with The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) SOAR program, held May 31–June 5, where high school students explored opportunities for success at HBCUs. Tuskegee is one 16 schools hosting SOAR students this year to expose rising seniors to academic enrichment and college readiness activities, positioning them as future scholars.
The Mathematical Foundations of AI and Data Science program, ran May 18 through June 12. 10 undergraduate STEM students participated, gaining critical skills in mathematical modeling and data-driven problem-solving—competencies increasingly essential in modern technical fields.
Several programs are focused specifically on academic preparation and retention in demanding disciplines.
The TA2P TSACS Academic Acceleration Program, running May 28 through July 30, is supporting seven undergraduate students with targeted academic development.
Similarly, the Freshman Accelerated Start-Up and Training for Retention in Engineering Curricula (FASTREC) program is equipping future engineers with tools for success. Running from May 28 through July 29, FASTREC includes 50 high school students and 10 undergraduate counselors, along with faculty and staff mentors who guide participants through immersive learning experiences.
The Pre-Freshman in Computer Science (PREFICS) program in the Computer Science Department began June 1 and will conclude July 30, introducing incoming freshmen to computer science fundamentals. 11 incoming Tuskegee University computer science freshmen are participating, preparing for the transition into rigorous STEM coursework.
The PREFICS program, which covers tuition, room and board and meals, was made possible by a $100,000 financial gift from Honda and a $100,000 grant from Lockheed Martin in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.
Tuskegee University’s commitment to community engagement is evident in initiatives like the School of Education Summer Literacy Internship Program, which runs June 1 through July 10. This program serves 75 elementary students while offering clinical training to five undergraduate preservice teachers, supported by three faculty members. The initiative integrates teaching practice, coaching, and community involvement.
For younger students, the SMART Camp (June 8–June 25) is providing engaging educational activities to approximately 75 K–8 students. Similarly, the GEAR-UP Program (June 15–June 26) is helping 15 high school students explore the intersection of computer science, music, and the arts, fostering creativity through technology.
Specialized Programs Driving Innovation and Career Awareness
A variety of specialized programs are helping students explore career pathways in focused disciplines:
- The NASA MUREP Tuskegee Summer Institute (June 7–June 20) engaged 20 high school students in NASA-related STEM activities.
- The Mentoring Into Aviation Science (MITAS) program (June 14–June 20) provided aviation exposure to 20–30 rising high school juniors and seniors, supported by undergraduate mentors and faculty.
- The Science of Beauty Cosmetic Science Camp (June 8-20) welcomed 22 high school freshmen through rising seniors in classes including contamination control, emulsions and chemical reactions, sustainable packaging and fragrance science.
- Pathways in Architecture, Construction, and Technology (PACT), held June 14-26, is introducing 15–20 high school students to architecture and design technologies.
More than 60 high school students interested in veterinary medicine are participating in Vet Step programs (June 8–12 and June 22–26) with faculty and staff of The College of Veterinary Medicine (TUCVM). TUCVM is also hosting the Summer Enrichment and Reinforcement Program (June 1–June 26) for 29 conditionally admitted veterinary students with a jumpstart on key curriculum. Another TUCVM opportunity - the Tuskegee Veterinary Scholars Program (TVSP) began in May and concluding in July - includes laboratory research and clinical experience at Tuskegee’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital, exposing students to advanced biomedical research, research-oriented career options and day trips to zoos and labs in Atlanta, Montgomery and Auburn.
Tuskegee is also fostering innovation through collaborative and advanced learning experiences.
Students are participating in the TU–Cornell Hackathon and TU–OSU Hackathon, both running June 8–18, where teams work on technology-driven solutions to real-world problems.
The CS Makers Program (July 6–10) is a statewide initiative offering professional development for middle school teachers to enhance computer science instruction in classrooms.
Across all programs, these opportunities continue to strengthen Tuskegee University’s role as a hub for innovation, mentorship, and community advancement.
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