Rice University hosted the 15th annual Texas Leadership Consortium Summer Youth Program June 9-13. This weeklong camp engaged 100 students from Houston area high schools and middle schools to provide life lessons and college readiness activities.
“The summer youth program is a collaboration with Rice and the Texas Diversity Council,” said David Medina, director of multicultural community relations in the university’s Office of Public Affairs. “We started this program because we want to help students, especially underserved students, prepare for college.”
The program is designed to equip students to have a successful transition into college through graduation and into the workforce with writing, various styles of communication and public speaking opportunities tailored to fit where they are in the ninth-12th grade cycle.
“I take pride in the privilege and responsibility of helping students realize their potential and power,” said co-chair Jevon Wooden, chief executive officer of BrightMind Consulting Group. “This is a transformational initiative that equips students with the tools they need for college and lifelong success through powerful lessons in mental health, public speaking, writing and personal presence.”
This year’s program is already showing results that are making a difference for the participants and also catching the attention of their parents.
“(It) was extra special because my son is participating in the program,” Jada Magee-Stroud said. “He is loving the experience and already planning to attend next year. He has been sharing the information with his friends.”
The program also aims to remain barrier-free to area youth by including free breakfasts and lunches, free METRO passes, hiring high school teachers to mentor the classes and inviting volunteers to speak about their careers throughout the week.
H-E-B and Murphy Oil sponsored this year’s camp. To learn more about the program, visit riceyouthprogram.org/2025.