Guided by Samford faculty members Jason Wallace, Shannon Flynt, Chris Metress, Bryan Johnson, and other colleagues, the Great Ideas Summer Institute offers an opportunity for high school students "to enjoy the energy of a college classroom, engage ideas that form the essence of humane learning, and develop friendships with exceptional high school students from around the country." The 2012 Institute concluded a few days ago. One of the young participants offered this evaluation of the experience:
"At the Great Ideas Summer Institute, I was able to participate in numerous in-depth classroom discussions and learn about influential authors. In addition, the discussions challenged me to think for myself about why I believe what I believe, and how to translate that into becoming a better citizen. I loved that the environment was filled with an intellectual curiosity that stimulated discussions dealing with fundamental ideas such as liberty and Justice. Also, I cannot speak highly enough about the professors, counselors, and other students who were all willing to continue these discussions outside the classroom."
The world is better because the Samford environment challenges us to become better citizens.