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MEDIA CONTACT: Melissa Greco Lopes (River Campus) mgrecolo@ur.rochester.edu
585.276.3693
September 3, 2008
Over 90 Thomas Jefferson High School students spent part of their first day of school on the University of Rochester's River Campus to kick off the Merchants of Hope Entrepreneurship program. A partnership between Jefferson High and the University's David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Diversity in Science and Engineering, the program provides a learning community for 7th, 8th, and 9th graders.
The program creates an environment that builds on the concepts and practices of entrepreneurship to give students the tools they need to continue their education after high school. The students were on campus today to work on their first project. Their task was to create a bridge using Popsicle sticks, tape, straws, and push pins. These activities foster the entrepreneurial spirit and by being on campus, help students see higher education as a natural part of their futures.
"We want them to be prepared for college," said Beth Olivares, executive director of the Kearns Center. Two days a week, undergraduates from the University will tutor and mentor students, spending Monday evenings at Jefferson and hosting the students on campus each Wednesday.
Throughout the year, the students will also be involved in University activities including athletic events, campus tours, and visits to the art galleries. Last year, participants competed in the Pumpkin Launch along side undergraduates. "It is important to include the students in University events because they're part of our family," added Olivares.
The University of Rochester (www.rochester.edu) is one of the nation's leading private universities. Located in Rochester, N.Y., the University gives students exceptional opportunities for interdisciplinary study and close collaboration with faculty through its unique cluster-based curriculum. Its College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering is complemented by the Eastman School of Music, Simon School of Business, Warner School of Education, Laboratory for Laser Energetics, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, and the Memorial Art Gallery.
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