BUCKHANNON – For gifted students in grades 5-12, the Wesleyan Summer Gifted Program is an experience they will never forget. The only program of its kind in the state, this STEM program provides gifted students with the academic and social stimulation they need, and is the most affordable program for the gifted in the country.

Since its inception, the program has been held on the beautiful campus of West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, West Virginia. Founded in 1983 by a college professor for his own two gifted sons and modeled after another Ivy League program for the gifted, the program offers advanced classes in physics, math, computer programming, and creative writing. These classes are all taught by seasoned college professors who delight in working with these young, gifted students.

Campers experience residence hall accommodations, eat together and attend classes on campus, and are given the chance to participate in fun, exciting activities every day. These students are supervised by college-age counselors who serve as guides and mentors. Many participants have such a great time they return year after year. Some even go on to become counselors at the camp and later enroll at WVWC.

Besides academics, the program offers the College’s extensive facilities for the students to use – swimming pool, basketball and tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields, a walking trail, a full library, music practice rooms, and outdoor rec equipment. Activities include movies, guest speakers, group activities, games, and a talent show on the last night. The first Friday they go downtown to experience Festival Fridays, and on Saturday they peruse the shops in town.

The program is directed by Dr. Tracey DeLaney, professor of physics at WVWC.

“This program is a boon to kids who never really felt like they fit in anywhere,” says Dr. DeLaney. “We are proud to be able to support these students academically and provide them with the opportunity to be around others with similar abilities.”

To be eligible for the program, students in rising grades 5-12 must be identified as gifted through testing. This summer’s program runs from June 18 to July 1 and is limited to 50 students. The program will be taking enrollments through June 9.

Interested parents, students, or teachers can view our offerings, learn about the professors and courses, and enroll online at http://www.wvwc.edu/summergifted. For more information contact DeLaney at 304-473-8330 or email sgp@wvwc.edu.