Each summer, Bethel hosts a number of camps for students in elementary grades through high school. The Summer Science Institute, Music Camp and Broadway at Bethel were among the many camps that enriched the lives of dozens of students this past June.
The 8th annual science camp took place June 3-8. Eleven students participated in sessions on astronomy, chemistry, environmental science, molecular biology and theory of mind. Students engaged in hands-on scientific investigation throughout the week, with ample time provided for evening recreation. The camp culminated in a Friday-afternoon symposium of student presentations attended by parents, grandparents, siblings and friends.
The Summer Science Institute gives students who have completed the freshman, sophomore, junior or senior year of high school direct experience in current fields of scientific research under the guidance of faculty mentors. Since 2000, 64 students have attended — many of them more than once — each receiving an hour of Bethel credit for his or her work.
This year’s Summer Music Camp took place June 10-16. Fifty-six students from 20 Kansas towns and three students from Pennsylvania took the opportunity to work with Bethel students and faculty, who introduced them to the music department through solos and ensemble performances. The week concluded with an exhilarating final concert by the campers.
Broadway at Bethel again was a success, with 37 students attending to learn and perform a musical, all within the week of June 17-24. This year’s production was “Li’l Abner.” Two of the attendees traveled from out of state to join the camp — one from Texas, the other from Rhode Island.