Innovate U is a summer leadership and innovation program launched in 2021 through a partnership with the Office of the President, the Fanning Institute, the College of Family and Consumer Sciences and the Clarke County School District.
The program is designed to equip rising 9th through 11th grade students with the tools to approach real-world challenges using human-centered design. The program encourages creative thinking and practical problem‑solving.
Each summer, approximately 25 to 30 students participate in an eight‑session program held over three weeks. Students work in teams, which are presented with a challenge question connected to a current community topic. Together, the teams develop one feasible idea, service or product that addresses the challenge question. The program concludes with a final presentation, where students share their solutions with peers, families, industry partners and Clarke County School District leaders.
The program is provided at no cost to students and is sustained through private donations and corporate sponsorships.
Impact
• 125 rising 9th–11th graders served since 2021
• Builds early leadership confidence and entrepreneurial mindset
• Connects students with UGA faculty, mentors, and community leaders
For more information regarding the program, contact LaurenG@uga.edu.
Read more about the program over the years:
• UGA helps high schoolers build leadership skills
• Program provides leadership training for Clarke students
• CCSD students build leadership, problem solving skills at UGA summer program