Ninety seventh grade students from SmithTech, part of Chesapeake Public Schools, spent the day at Old Dominion University this week, and the impact was immediate. From the moment they stepped on campus, these future Monarchs were immersed in hands on learning designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and show what is possible when a university and its K to 12 partners work together with purpose. “Experiences like this help students see themselves in new ways,” said Dr. Gary Skeen, Associate Director of the Center for Educational Innovation and Opportunity. “When students walk into our labs, classrooms, and creative spaces, they begin to imagine a future that feels real and achievable.” A special thank you goes to Chesapeake Public Schools for their partnership and support in making this experience possible.
Throughout the day, students rotated through a series of activities led by faculty from the College of Sciences, the Batten College of Engineering and Technology, Perry Library, ODU Esports, and the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies. One of the highlights was an AI prototyping session using MonarchSphere, ODU’s emerging artificial intelligence platform that allows learners to design solutions in real time. Students also engaged with robotics, engineering technologies, a real world data science challenge, and a STEM activity that encouraged teamwork, inquiry, and creative problem solving.
The campus experience added another layer of inspiration. Students enjoyed lunch at Broderick Dining Commons, explored key academic and student life spaces, and even had the chance to run across the field in SB Ballard Stadium. Their visit to the ODU Esports Arena quickly became another favorite as they learned about the technology, communication, and strategy behind competitive gaming. “We want students to experience college not as something mysterious or distant, but as a vibrant place they belong,” Dr. Skeen said. “This visit makes the pathway feel closer for every learner who joined us.”
ODU’s work with regional school divisions, including through its lab school partnerships, continues to expand access to hands on and real world learning for students across Hampton Roads. Opportunities like this help young learners imagine themselves in college, understand the relevance of STEM pathways, and see how their personal interests connect to emerging careers. These experiences are central to CEIO’s mission to build the next generation of talent through innovation, partnership, and purposeful design.
The success of the day was powered by the collaboration of faculty, staff, MonarchTeach students, CEIO graduate assistants, and campus life teams whose dedication created a welcoming and engaging environment. For many students, this was their first time on a university campus. For others, it was the moment they first pictured themselves as future Monarchs. Either way, this visit marks only the beginning. “This is not a one time experience,” Dr. Skeen added. “Our goal is to build ongoing opportunities that help students grow, explore, and thrive from middle school through college and beyond.”
Learn more about how ODU and the Center for Educational Innovation and Opportunity are shaping the future of learning at oduceio.org.
