Overview

STEM Summer Institute (SSI) is Harpeth Hall's premier research-based STEM summer program where girls use the engineering design process to solve real world problems. Beginning in 2011, the camp attracts girls from all over the Nashville area with the opportunity to learn new STEM skills and apply their knowledge to help girls in need in other parts of the world.  

Through Harpeth Hall’s partnership with the Lwala Community Alliance, campers will be asked to solve a challenge facing the community of Lwala in Kenya, Africa. Students will research, design, build and test prototypes solutions. They will visit local laboratories and engage with a diverse group of women in STEM careers. Finally, students will present their projects to a team of STEM professionals to gain feedback and greater understanding.

Students are selected to participate in SSI through an application process separate from Harpeth Hall summer camps. Prior STEM experience is not required. We encourage applications from students who are eager to learn, willing to think creatively, want to work as a team, and who will strive to represent their schools honorably. 

New students must provide a teacher recommendation. Need-based scholarships are available. Acceptance is granted on a rolling basis and space is limited, so please consider applying as soon as possible.

Please contact Dr. Barbara Bell with any questions: barbara.bell@harpethhall.org.