UIUC welcoming back ACES Family Academies workshops this summer

"Participating in ACES Family Academies with my daughter was such a meaningful experience — both as an alum and as a parent,” said Rocky Lacey-Nelson (B.S. ’97), ACES Alumni Board President. “It was incredible to see her curiosity sparked by the same college that shaped my own path. This program creates lasting memories and opens young eyes to the power of learning and discovery. We had a fantastic time last year, and we’re excited to come back!"

By Craig Ondevilla April 27, 2025 10:00 am

Metro ServicesMetro Creative ConnectionChildren science

URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is welcoming ACES Family Academies back to campus during the summer.

ACES Family Academies is a three-day experience hosted by the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES). It runs July 9 to 11, 2025 open to chidlren ages eight to 13 and their ACES alumni relatives. The program is designed to ignite curiosity with hands-on workshops including food and agriculture to human development, technology, and the environment.

“ACES Family Academies is more than just a summer camp — it’s a chance to explore real-world topics, spark new interests, and experience college life as a family,” said program organizer Meghan Brockamp, the coordinator of alumni engagement at ACES. “We design workshops to reflect the richness of an ACES education while making it accessible and fun for younger learners.”

This year’s lineup includes:

“Get the Dirt on Dirt” lets students discover samples from the Illinois soil archive and understand land stewardship.
“Plant Science Lab: Protecting Pollinators, Saving Seeds, and Growing Gardens” teaches students the importance of native plants and pollinators through hands-on activities.
“Paint Your ACES Off” will let students paint their own canvas masterpiece inspired by ACES values and learning about branding.

Participants stay overnight in a university residence hall and eat at the Ikenberry Dining Center. Cost is $200 per participant and space is limited.

“Participating in ACES Family Academies with my daughter was such a meaningful experience — both as an alum and as a parent,” said Rocky Lacey-Nelson (B.S. ’97), ACES Alumni Board President. “It was incredible to see her curiosity sparked by the same college that shaped my own path. This program creates lasting memories and opens young eyes to the power of learning and discovery. We had a fantastic time last year, and we’re excited to come back!”

Registration is now open online and closes on June 6, 2025. For questions about the event, including any accommodation needs, please contact acesalumni@illinois.edu.