DAPCEP Mail - July Highlights, Fall Experiences, & 50th Anniversary

Jessica Turner <jturner@dapcep.org>

[TEST] July Highlights, Fall Experiences, & 50th Anniversary 1 message Michelle L. Reaves <updates@dapcep.org> Reply-To: updates@dapcep.org To: "\"\"" <jturner@dapcep.org>

Wed, Aug 5, 2026 at 1:58 PM

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Hello DAPCEP Friends & Families, In September we will begin a year long celebration of DAPCEP's 50th Anniversary! This milestone honors five decades of inspiring young people and creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond the classroom.

The Ripple Effect happens when ...

One DAPCEP opportunity becomes a career.

One career transforms a family.

One family strengthens a community.

One community reshapes a city, a state, a nation, and ultimately our world.

Please join me in celebrating this exciting season by becoming part of the Alumni Network, joining us at the Anniversary Gala, and exploring the many ways to stay connected.

The Ripple Effect isn't just our history — it's happening right now, in classrooms and on campuses this very summer.

It is hard to believe we are halfway through summer programs already! DAPCEP continues to create opportunities for students to learn, discover, and prepare for bright futures. This month, DAPCEP students traveled across the country during the Out-of-State STEM College Tour and participated in engaging experiences that kept them learning and exploring all summer long.

And don't forget—Fall Enrollment opens August 17!

Sincerely,

Michelle L. Reaves Executive Director, DAPCEP

Out-of-State STEM College Tour

“Every college visited creates new possibilities that ripple into future careers and communities.” Michelle Reaves This month, DAPCEP high school students embarked on a transformative college tour that provided an inside look at academic programs, campus life, and future opportunities in STEM. Beyond the campus visits themselves, students connected with faculty and admissions staff, explored STEM career paths, and came away with real confidence about applying to college.

Students visited: Fisk University Kentucky State University Central State University Tennessee State University Simmons College of Kentucky Meharry Medical College Clark Atlanta University Morehouse College Spelman College

STEM Camps All Summer Long!

This summer, DAPCEP hosted more than 30, residential and day-long, STEM camps across Michigan, serving over 1200 students in grades 2–12. From returning favorites to exciting new courses, students explored STEM through hands-on learning as DAPCEP expanded programming into new communities throughout the state.

Everyday Chemistry Summer Program at Lawrence Technological University (LTU) was led

by LTU faculty. DAPCEP high school students stepped into university laboratories to explore chemistry up close, an opportunity many students don't get before college! Through real experiments and laboratory techniques, students discovered how chemistry shapes everyday life while gaining valuable exposure to college-level learning and STEM careers.

It was just one of many memorable STEM experiences for DAPCEP students this summer and we can't wait for what's ahead this fall.

DAPCEP Celebrates 50 Years This Fall

This September, DAPCEP proudly celebrates 50 years of expanding opportunities, inspiring innovation, and transforming lives through STEM education.

As we reflect on five decades of impact, we also celebrate the countless ripple effects created by our students, alumni, educators, partners, and supporters. Every student inspired, every career launched, and every life transformed has helped strengthen families, communities, and future generations.

As part of this milestone celebration, we invite all DAPCEP alumni to reconnect by joining the DAPCEP Alumni Network.

Whether you're interested in mentoring students, attending alumni events, sharing your DAPCEP story, volunteering, or simply staying connected, the Alumni Network offers meaningful ways to celebrate our shared legacy while helping shape DAPCEP's future.

Joining takes less than five minutes. Sign up today and become part of the next 50 years of ripple effects.

Sign Up Here!

Announcements Tickets Now Available: DAPCEP 50th Anniversary Gala

Join us for an unforgettable evening as DAPCEP celebrates 50 years of creating pathways to opportunity through STEM education.

We are honored to welcome Joi Harris, President and CEO of DTE Energy and proud DAPCEP alumna, as Honorary Chair of this historic celebration.

This special gala will honor five decades of student achievement, transformational partnerships, and the lasting impact of DAPCEP's mission.Together, alumni, educators, corporate partners, parents, and community leaders will celebrate DAPCEP's legacy while investing in the next generation of STEM innovators.

Proceeds from the gala will expand STEM programming and educational opportunities that equip students with the skills, confidence, and experiences needed to pursue college, careers, and leadership in STEM. Reserve your seat today and help create the ripple effects of the next 50 years.

Purchase Tickets!

Fall Enrollment Opens August 17

The next chapter of STEM exploration begins this fall!

DAPCEP's Fall enrollment opens August 17, offering students exciting opportunities to explore STEM through engaging, hands-on classes designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence.

With a variety of new and returning courses—and limited space available—classes fill quickly.

Mark your calendar and register at DAPCEP.org beginning August 17.

Stay Connected Celebrate. Connect. Inspire. Join us as we honor 50 years of ripple effects and help create the next 50 years of opportunity for students across Michigan.

Follow DAPCEP on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay up to date on programs, events, student success stories, and 50th Anniversary celebrations.

Alumni Spotlight: Jeanine Wilson

"My journey in STEM began as a child participating in DAPCEP programs, where I was encouraged to dream beyond what I could see...With the support of my teacher, my aunt, and DAPCEP, I began to believe that science was a place where I belonged and knew I wanted to help others discover that same sense of wonder."

-Jeanine Wilson, Science Educator

My journey in STEM began as a child participating in DAPCEP programs, where I was encouraged to dream beyond what I could see. My love for science started even earlier at Vernor Elementary when my teacher, Mr. Konrade Kydell, handed me a magnifying glass and a hosta flower and encouraged me to observe the world closely. In that moment, science became more than a subject—it became a way of understanding the world. I was also inspired by my aunt, a chemist at Ford Motor Company and the only African American woman in her role at the time. She shared both her accomplishments and the challenges she faced, reminding me that while the path would not be easy, I could succeed. With the support of my teacher, my aunt, and DAPCEP, I began to believe that science was a place where I belonged and knew I wanted to help others discover that same sense of wonder.

That passion grew at Eastern Michigan University, where I earned a Master’s degree in Science Education and Curriculum Design. There, I learned how to combine strong science content with meaningful teaching practices to create engaging learning experiences for students. Today, I have the privilege of helping young people see themselves as scientists, engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers while supporting educators in creating engaging STEM opportunities. I am grateful to organizations such as DAPCEP, Eastern Michigan University, Wayne RESA, the Qualcomm Thinkabit Lab, and the Michigan Science Center for

helping shape my journey. As a former DAPCEP student, it is especially meaningful to now help create opportunities for the next generation of STEM learners.

-Jeanine Wilson, Science Educator

Share Your DAPCEP Experience!

Has DAPCEP made a difference in your life, your student’s journey, or your organization’s impact?

We would love to hear your story. Whether DAPCEP helped shape your academic path, opened doors to new opportunities, strengthened your workforce, or made a meaningful difference in your life, your experience matters. Click below to let us know you’re interested in sharing your DAPCEP story—we can’t wait to celebrate your journey!

I want to tell my DAPCEP story!

DAPCEP News For articles about the latest DAPCEP news, click the button below: Read DAPCEP News!

Thank you from DAPCEP!

For almost 50 years, DAPCEP has been creating opportunities for students to explore STEM, discover their potential, and prepare for future success. This impact is made possible through the commitment and generosity of supporters like you.

Your support helps provide students with hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and opportunities to connect with STEM professionals and career pathways. Together, we are helping the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders reach their goals.

Thank you for being an essential part of DAPCEP’s journey and for investing in the future of our students and communities.

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