Youth development program celebrates 35 years, welcomes 35 new youth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 11, 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Cody Hefner (513) 608-5777, chefner@cincymuseum.org

Youth development program celebrates 35 years, welcomes 35 new youth
 
CINCINNATI –  Cincinnati Museum Center (CMC) celebrated six graduating seniors from its Youth Programs. The youth development program, now in its 35th year, supports high school students as they participate in program development, content delivery, collections support and more throughout the museum while also receiving college readiness and career development coaching. As the program cheered on its seniors beginning their next chapters, Youth Programs welcomed 35 incoming youth volunteers. 

CMC’s Youth Programs began in 1989 with two student volunteers in the Museum of Natural History & Science. In the 35 years since those original “Lab Rats,” Youth Programs boasts over 2,000 alumni and has become a premier youth development initiative. It enhances the creativity, confidence and success of its participants, which numbers more than 80 students each year.
 
“To me, Youth Programs means engagement, inspiration, diversity, service and empowerment, not just for the participants, but for our whole community,” said Calvin Harper, director of Cincinnati Museum Center’s Youth Programs. “What we learn here is invaluable. It impacts us as individuals and as a community, enriching our lives and helping us move forward toward success.”
 
Academic success is a cornerstone of the program, with 100% of participants graduating from high school. An outstanding 99% go on to enroll in a four-year college, with 80% receiving scholarships or financial aid, which CMC helps facilitate through financial aid workshops and scholarship fairs.
 Youth Programs on floor_cave

“I’m so proud of the work our seniors have shared with us and can’t wait to see how they continue to make an impact,” said Elizabeth Pierce, president & CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “The talent and effort of our young leaders create transformational moments for our guests. Every year, I’m so impressed by the skill, perspective and friendships built in our Youth Programs.”

CMC and its Youth Programs wish the following seniors success as they being the next step in their journeys:

• Ester Blazer, the School for Creative and Performing Arts, plans to attend DAAP at the University of Cincinnati.
• Mylo Estep, Colerain High School, plans to attend community college to study museum studies.
• Leah Horn, Saint Ursula Academy, plans to attend college to become a physician assistant.
• Bethany Strong, Mercy McAuley High School, plans to attend college to study media and film production.
• Anthony Werner, Sycamore High School and home school, is taking online courses in video game design.
• Scarlet Wright, Mercy McAuley High School, plans to attend the University of Cincinnati to study early childhood education.