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Georgian Court University will play host to some 900 young people from across the Garden State this summer through a variety of summer camps and enrichment programs sponsored by community organizations.
Students from elementary through high school will be able to attend programs to improve their athletic skills, experiment with science and technology, enhance their education, participate in fun activities, and learn more about applying to college and the college experience.
“Georgian Court is honored to fulfill an important role in our community by providing a safe, welcoming space for summer enrichment programs for young people,” said Kenneth M. Karamichael, Associate Vice President for Professional Studies and Business Development. “For decades, the University has been a hub for dynamic community summer programs, offering hands-on learning opportunities and access to classrooms, labs, residence halls, athletic fields, and more. Guided by our Mercy core values, GCU remains committed to supporting and uplifting the local community.”
While the programs are run by outside organizations, some collaborate with Georgian Court departments and faculty to provide special training and enhanced learning experiences. Many organizations return to campus year after year, including some for more than 20 years, such as the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore and the American Legion Auxiliary New Jersey Girls State.
Summer programs scheduled from June through August include:
- American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) New Jersey Girls State (June 22-26) – An amazing week of learning focused on responsible citizenship, leadership, and the mission of the ALA for 200 rising seniors, traditionally in the top percent of their class, from each high school in NJ.
- Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
Girls in Science and Technology (GIST) (July 14-17) – Twenty campers, all from Lakewood, will spend a week participating in science and technology projects while earning Girl Scout badges.
Innovate Her (July 21-25) – Inviting girls from Lakewood, ages 5-12, to participate in a program that includes STEM activities, arts experiences, community involvement, outdoor adventures, confidence building, and leadership skills.
- The New Jersey Association for College Admission Counseling NJACA Camp College (July 21-22) – An exciting opportunity for some 50 students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds to learn more about the college admissions process. The program is geared towards rising high school juniors and seniors who lack the resources they might need to find the best college matches and successfully complete the application process. Most students who have attended in the past have been low-income and/or the first in their families to attend college.
- Ocean Academy Charter School: (July 7-31) – Rising sophomores from Ocean Academy High School will take part in an academic enrichment experience designed to strengthen students’ foundational skills while providing them with a preview of college-level learning. Students will focus on mathematics and literacy, and participate in interactive enrichment activities across various university departments. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Georgian Court and Ocean Academy H.S. to bridge the gap between high school and college, providing academic skill development, exposure to higher education environments, and enhancing the confidence needed for future educational success.
- Pre-College Summer Program (PCSP) (July 30-August 8) – A dynamic, immersive summer residential experience for New Jersey high school students ages 16–21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Designed to inspire growth and independence, PCSP offers participants the chance to build essential life skills, explore new opportunities, and prepare for the future—all in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Princeton Day School Soccer Academy (July 12-15) – An overnight camp in conjunction with Georgian Court Athletics that provides approximately 15 high school girls with training from Georgian Court coaches.
- Major Development Soccer (July 13-17) – Between 125 and 175 young athletes, ages 7-16, will be on campus to run drills, hold scrimmages, and meet coaches.
- Red Bulls New York Premier Academy (July 20-August 7) – Red Bulls RDS Camp is open to Red Bulls advanced soccer players. Some 155-230 young athletes will practice, scrimmage, and meet with Georgian Court coaches.
For information on how to host your program at Georgian Court, contact Amanda McCarthy, Event Services Supervisor, at amccarthy@georgian.edu or 732-987-2730.
