USCBe Informed: News & Happenings

The University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB) and the YMCA of Beaufort County partnered once again to host their annual “Mad Scientist Summer Camp,” a weeklong deep dive into hands-on science, coastal ecology, and creative exploration for youth ages eight to 12. From June 23 to 27, campers immersed themselves in a range of activities—from mapping human organs and editing a podcast interview to navigating wetlands and spotting dolphins—all designed to spark curiosity and a lifelong passion for learning.

Now in its fifth year, the camp united USCB professors, students, and community volunteers in a mission to make science accessible and engaging.

“We want kids to walk away with a positive experience, to think, ‘I had fun, I learned something new, and I’d love to do it again,’” said camp co-coordinator Heather Thornton, an instructor in USCB’s biology department.

Thornton, taking the lead role for the first time this year, worked alongside senior instructor Dr. Butch Alvarez and a team of faculty to plan the diverse lineup of STEM-centered activities.

Campers kicked off the week with anatomy and physiology, where instructor Rebecca Capello guided them through a creative project: sketching the digestive system on aprons using fabric markers.

“Learning is easier when you draw it,” said Capello, who first tested the activity with her 11-year-old stepson. “It’s fun, interactive, and rooted in real science.”

From the lab to the outdoors, the camp emphasized experiential learning. One of the highlights was a field trip to the Cypress Wetlands in Port Royal, led by herpetologist and adjunct professor Sally Krebs. There, campers observed native wildlife—frogs, turtles, and even a camouflaged alligator—while discussing ecology, conservation, and biodiversity.

“Getting outside and getting dirty is one of the best things these kids can do,” said Krebs. “It enhances their immune systems and helps them understand how interconnected we are with the natural world.”

Midweek, students visited USCB’s library and Makerspace, where they experimented with podcasting, VR technology, and an interactive scavenger hunt. Under the guidance of USCB library director Dr. Kimberly Kelley, library staff, and members of the Makerspace, campers explored the 3D printing process, cooperative team games, and interviewed each other on camera with help from Dr. Caroline Sawyer.

“Camp is about getting out of your comfort zone,” said Kelley. “If these kids walk away with one thing, it’s that learning can be both fun and empowering.”

The capstone of the week was a boat ecology tour at the Port Royal Sound Maritime Center. Outfitted in life jackets, campers cruised the Chechessee River, spotting bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and marshland wildlife up close.

“It’s a floating lab,” Alvarez said, emphasizing the camp’s focus this year on marine biology. “If we can get kids excited about science at this age, they might remember USCB when they’re deciding where to go to college.”

That long-term vision—of cultivating future scientists and environmental stewards—motivates the camp’s organizers despite limited staffing and resources.

“We had to keep the program going, even when we were short-handed,” Alvarez explained. “This is about more than science. It’s about outreach, it’s about community, and it’s about giving kids a meaningful experience.”

That impact was felt by campers, too.

“In school, I’m quiet all the time. But here, I talk to friends more,” shared 11-year-old Gwen, who said making new friends and learning about seals were her favorite parts of the week. She hopes to return next year as a counselor-in-training.

As the camp looks to the future, faculty are already considering expansion ideas—from additional volunteers and increased student capacity to “Super Saturday” science events throughout the year. For now, the takeaway is simple: a love for learning, a splash of adventure, and the thrill of discovery.

“This camp isn’t just about what’s taught,” said Thornton. “It’s about how it makes them feel—curious, confident, and connected.”