Orlando Science Center
Orlando Science Center
In the heart of Florida, AdventHealth University (AHU) is helping to light the path for young minds to explore careers in health care. Through dynamic partnerships and immersive experiences, AHU is aiming to nurture the next generation of nurses, scientists, and innovators, starting as early as elementary and middle school.
“It’s important for us to plant seeds early,” said Karen Benn Marshall, Ed.D., provost and chief academic officer at AdventHealth University. “The literature is clear: If kids are not exposed to science at an early age — even before they hit middle school — their decisions about science are delayed. They don’t often make those connections.”
One of the University’s long-running initiatives is its annual Summer Science Camp for members of the Joe R. Lee Boys & Girls Club from Eatonville, Fla. The week-long experience blends fun with education, offering preteens and teens hands-on STEM activities that ignite curiosity and confidence. This summer’s camp included activities with the Occupational Therapy Department, a session on chemistry and art, a trip to the Orlando Science Center, a peek at AHU’s leading-edge simulation equipment, and a visit from therapy dogs.
“Science Camp is a community-based program here at AdventHealth University, and we have hosted it for the last 10 years,” said Kendra Presley, community and student engagement director at AdventHealth University. “We are grateful to serve the Boys & Girls Clubs of central Florida, and to have the opportunity to leave a really lasting impact on our campers.”
“This brings hope and exposure to opportunities that kids may never know they had,” said Shadrick Alexander, senior service director for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida.
For high school students, AHU collaborates with the Innovus Innovation Center to host the high school Health Care Careers and Research Summer Experience, a program that offers exposure to clinical and non-clinical roles. Students tour academic and research departments, engage with health care professionals, and participate in panel discussions that demystify the many paths within the health care field.
In addition, AHU’s commitment to youth education took a bold leap forward with its recent involvement in a new initiative with the Orlando Science Center (OSC). As part of a partnership between OSC and Advent- Health for Children, AHU faculty and students serve as guest speakers and camp volunteers at the newly launched STEM Discovery Center and in satellite neighborhood centers. This vibrant space is designed to be a launchpad for imagination, where children can envision themselves as future health care professionals.
“The future of health care often begins not in hospitals or doctor’s offices, but in the hearts and minds of young dreamers,” said Benn Marshall during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
AdventHealth University is exploring opportunities to host field trips, specialized summer camps, and a Medical Career Science Night for Orlando Science Center children and families on its nearby Orlando campus.
“This partnership is a beautiful example of what happens when education, health care, and community come together,” said Benn Marshall. “Together, we are planning seeds of purpose, nurturing talent, and building a healthier future.”
AdventHealth University | November 2025
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