Hollinsummer: Science Seminar

For rising 9th – 12th grade young women

Experiment and Explore

Sunday, July 12 – Saturday, July 18

Spend an exciting week at Hollins University’s Dana Science Building, where science comes to life through hands-on discovery. Designed for curious and motivated students, Experiment and Explore immerses participants in the foundations of chemistry, environmental science, and materials science while connecting these disciplines to real-world applications.

Through interactive lectures, lab experiments, and field experiences—from exploring polymers and renewable energy to collecting data downtown—you’ll investigate how science shapes the world around us. Career speakers and research workshops offer insight into the pathways that lead from curiosity to scientific impact.

Outside the lab, evening activities like bridge building, karaoke, and movie night build community and fun connections with fellow young scientists. The week concludes with a collaborative project where students analyze data and share their results, celebrating a week of exploration and experimentation.

Instructors

Kaila Thorn

Visiting Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies, Hollins University

• Has a B.A. in environmental studies and international studies from Hollins, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in agricultural and extension education from The Pennsylvania State University
• In the past has conducted work with USDA NE Climate Hub, UNESCO Youth as Researchers in a number of cross-cultural activities, and Extension Education using experiential activities to promote positive youth development. 
• Current work is centered around young adult development, program development and evaluation, and youth environmental leadership. Most recently has been exploring different experiences of young adults and how that impacts their connectedness to nature.

Brian Reeves

Visiting Assistant Professor of Chemistry, Hollins University

• Has a B.S. in chemistry from James Madison University and a Ph.D. in materials chemistry from Colorado State University.
• Interested in designing and synthesizing new materials for flexible and transparent electronics applications.
• Current work at Hollins is focused on synthesizing new hybrid nanosheets for use in flexible solar cells. The project aims to improve upon a component of organic solar cells called the electron transport layer, by combining components from organic and inorganic solar cells. The overall goal is to improve the efficiency and lower the cost of flexible solar cells.