Beacon Academy
Strives to ignite a passion for learning and discovery
Beacon Summer Camp 2025
Join us for an unforgettable week at Beacon Summer Camp, taking place June 23–June 27 at the Dunes Learning Center! This is a fantastic chance for teens ages 14-17 to experience the beauty of nature, adventure, and discovery.
What to expect:
Hiking through scenic trails
Bonfires under the stars
Exploring the Dunes and surrounding nature
University Visits at Valparaiso University, where you can learn more about the school and exciting programs!
Special Offer: The usual price for this incredible experience is $649, but with the discount code BEACON25, you can register for just $50!
Don’t miss out—this is a limited-time offer!
For more details and to sign up, visit:
duneslearningcenter.org/beacon
Or click the Register Now button below!
LIGHTING A PATH TO A BETTER FUTURE
Indiana Youth Programs on Campus (IYPC)
Camps On Campus!
Beacon Academy is a pioneering camp and program experience for first-generation and underestimated high school students and their parents. In the past year, over 600 guests from Northwest Indiana experienced engaging and hands-on experiences from all university departments at Valpo’s campus. With support from our partners—Lilly Endowment, Dunes Learning Center, and the American Camp Association—students are becoming acquainted with campus, building relationships with staff and peers, and engaging in experiences that prepare them for success in college and beyond. Most importantly, Beacon Academy is creating lasting relationships and igniting a passion for learning and discovery.
Our Partners:
Beacon Cadaver Academy
Dr. Beth Scaglione-Sewell and Dr. Abdullah Hasan Pratt of the University of Chicago Medical Center welcomed Beacon high school students to Neils Science Center to experience the Cadaver lab. They were a dynamic duo as they shared their experiences working together. Dr. Pratt was a former student of Dr. Scaclione-Sewell at Valpo. Students were encouraged to ask questions and inspired to consider future careers in healthcare. They played some outdoor games and enjoyed lunch at Founders. We hope to see these students again at Beacon camp this summer!
Beacon TV/Radio Academy
Beacon TV/Radio Academy welcomed students from Gary Community School Corporation to campus to expose them to hands-on experiences in a TV and radio station. Dr. Rick Wolff and Paul Oren shared their technical skills and provided real-world examples of broadcasting. Students operated cameras, talked on the radio, and worked with audio equipment. The “on-air” experience was a hit! Our high school students played games, asked relevant questions, and took a campus tour before lunch at Founders.
Beacon Water Analysis Academy
Students from the Boys and Girls Club of Valparaiso University enjoyed a fun and educational experience with Dr. Chris Iceman on Jul 25, 2023. Students were given a tour of campus which included Harre Union, Chapel of the Resurrection, and several colleges on campus. Dr. Iceman met our group wearing safety goggles with eyelashes attached! Students learned about water analysis and the elements in their local water. The day ended with pizza at the union and thoughtful conversation and questions about university life. It was a great day!
Outcomes
College Exposure
Students will become familiar with campus, and build relationships with staff and students.
Build Character
Students will benefit by serving their community while learning valuable character traits.
Explore Careers
Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of different careers.
Serve Youth
The Beacon Academy will expose youth to experiences that will help prepare them for success in college and later life.
Contact Us
Director of BEACON Academy
Shannon O’Brien
shannon.obrienbesedick@valpo.edu