OUR MISSION

YSA is committed to empowering youth of all backgrounds to be community ambassadors of science and technology as future leaders in our community.
​
In a fun and creative environment, Young Scientist Academy (non profit 501(c)(3)) programs engage students’ innate interest in the natural world, allowing them to explore real world research in - Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math - STEAM topics. 

Our priority is to promote youth participation from underserved and downtown communities that are often faced with personal or environmental adversity by providing services at minimal expense to participants or no cost through scholarships. Through these career-building experiences, we aim to provide leadership, skills and confidence in our youth to establish partnerships and service opportunities for local communities. 

Data source: New Hanover County Schools

YSA is committed to our youth for a better future......

Science is a powerful tool for solving community problems. Never has it been more clear that we need to prepare the next generation with the tools and confidence to address future challenges using science. In the past year, the Young Scientist Academy has continued providing Wilmington, NC K-12 youth with the unique opportunity to use science and technology to discover and deliver solutions that benefit local and global communities. YSA provides exciting and enriching hands-on science experiences in an inclusive environment by working with each student’s interests and abilities, and by encouraging curiosity and creativity while building confidence.

A Year of Growth in the Community

Last year, YSA mentored over 400 youth through its after-school, home-school, homework help, and summer enrichment programs. Furthermore, we have served the community throughout the COVID-19 pandemic by providing over 100 hours of free access to engaging virtual lessons. Despite the challenges of 2020, we are proud to have added exciting initiatives, such as Code Girls, an intensive five-week program for girls focused on computer coding and technology; and Sidewalk Science, an afterschool hands-on science enrichment class for kids held under the tent at the Hemenway Center in Wilmington’s North Side. Interacting with these students and seeing their enthusiasm for getting their hands dirty with science has been incredibly gratifying during this challenging year.

YSA program statistics for 2019-20, including homeschool, after school, virtual experiences, and Code Girls program. 

To support the continued growth and success of these programs, science and technology must be made equally accessible to youth of all backgrounds, regardless of their race or gender identity.  Last year, YSA made huge strides in meeting these diversity objectives by supporting 65% Black and Latinx students and having 60% female participation in its core programs.

FEEDBACK

My son started YSA at his middle school as an after school club. It was a wonderful way to take what he knew about science and apply it out into the real world! YSA offered hands-on experience with computer programming, marine science and even designing a weather balloon. The kids put the scientific method into action through observations and experimentation in the field, refining their hypothesis along the way. Working with Dr. Condon opened up a world of possibilities for my budding scientist! I highly recommend YSA!

Our family found YSA at our school fair. Then last minute signed up for a week of camp. We couldn't get our young self declared inventor to leave. He has spent hours explaining everything he is learning. He begged to attend a second week so he could complete his experiment. That being said he is officially registered for his 3rd week and is begging to attend the after-school program. We can't be more thrilled. When your child talks about subjects you can barely understand they can become frustrated. Here at YSA someone can talk with him and expand his thinking while teaching and challenging him. Thank you Dr. Rob.

The academy has an amazing atmosphere. My children learned a lot and blossomed greatly as young scientists. My kids were surrounded by teammates who are just as enthused about learning science as they were. Doctor Rob is an awesome teacher, the volunteers are awesome as well. it's just an all-around great experience for children.