60 High School Students Explore Hands-on Learning in SIUE’s IMAGINE Summer Success Academy 2025
From June 16–19, 2025, the IMAGINE Summer Success Academy welcomed 60 high school students for an unforgettable four-day, overnight experience at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. With more than 350 applications, this year’s academy doubled in size from the previous year, highlighting growing enthusiasm for the program.
Students from 25 different schools came together to explore the field of nursing through hands-on learning, interactive simulations, and mentorship from SIUE faculty, staff, and students. They practiced essential nursing skills such as patient communication, taking vital signs, placing NG tubes and Foley catheters, performing intubation, and more. Students also earned their CPR certification.
Participants described the Academy as fun, engaging, and inspiring, many expressed a desire for the program to be extended. In addition to building new skills, students formed lasting friendships and received mentorship that helped them envision a future in nursing. One student shared that although she had been unsure about attending college, the Academy solidified her decision to enroll in SIUE’s nursing program this fall.
“The IMAGINE Summer Success Academy continues to make a powerful impact—sparking passion, building confidence, and shaping the next generation of nurse leaders,” said Myjal Garner, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, interim director of the SON WE CARE Clinic, assistant professor in the SON, and principal investigator of the IMAGINE Summer Success Academy grant.
PHOTOS: High school students participate in an on-campus experience in the 2025 IMAGINE Summer Success Academy
