The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum will host a new hands-on STEAM Camp, themed “DNA Forensics,” June 6-10.

Open to children from fifth through eighth grade, the camp will take place on the University’s campus. Cost of registration is $275 per child or $250 per child for University of Findlay faculty and staff, and includes instruction, all required materials, and a STEAM Camp t-shirt. A family reception will be held Friday, June 10 at noon. Enrollment space is limited and provided on a first come, first served basis.

During the camp, students will discover how science, technology, engineering, art, and math can help them learn about the world around them as they uncover a mystery at the Mazza Museum. Collaborative hands-on activities in forensics, biology, chemistry, and more will inspire creativity and spark critical thinking.

“If you’re interested in how science is applied to legal investigations or love to solve a mystery, you don’t want to miss this camp!” said Heather Sensel, education manager at the Mazza Museum. “Students will get a behind-the-scenes look at a number of UF programs and become detectives to help figure out who’s responsible for a heist at the Mazza Museum.”

Throughout the week, students will examine a crime scene by collecting evidence, examine clues under a microscope, inspect fingerprints, and even analyze DNA. Sensel noted, “At the end of the week, each team of students will present their findings and learn who the real culprit is and “families are also invited to attend a reception recognizing all of their work toward discovery!”

Along with learning investigative techniques, STEAM Camp participants will get to know faculty and tour a number of academic areas used by current UF students. Faculty assisting with the camp include:

• Dana Emmert, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry
• Justin Rheubert, assistant professor of biology
• Robert Charvat, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology
• Phil Lucas, Ph.D., associate professor of criminal justice
• Jaymelee Kim, Ph.D., associate professor of forensic science

Thanks to a generous donor, camp scholarships are available for select students. For questions relating to STEAM Camp – “DNA Forensics” and scholarship information or to apply, contact Heather Sensel at [email protected] or 419-434-4777.