Amidst the snowy February landscape, Marian University's Alumni Hall was filled with a vibrant summer atmosphere. The air was charged with excitement as families flocked to Marian's inaugural Summer Camps Fair. The event was a gateway to a world of possibilities, offering various summer activities. Marian's athletic, music, and theater camps, the Fred S. Klipsch Educators College Leadership Institute, Marian's Healthcare Camp, the Innovation through Engineering Camp, the Indianapolis Children's Museum, and others helped parents eager to sign up to keep their school-aged children busy over the summer.
Among these was the highly anticipated Marian University football camp. "Since we're part of this community, we wanted to let as many kids as possible know we're here to provide some football instruction and skills,” said A.J. Shaffer, '27, a first-year Marian Knights football team member. "We want to help kids who may need some encouragement and be a mentor to them." Marian's football camp will be held in June under the stadium lights. That news excited 11-year-old Caden Jones of Avon, Indiana. "I like playing football, so I'm excited to learn more from Marian's football players," he said." When I grow up, I may want to play here."
"The Summer Camps Fair is a testament to Marian's deep-rooted connection with the community,” said Crystal Owhoso-Maddox, director of Marian’s K-12 Schools and Community programs. “It's not just about the activities, but also about the bonds and connections that families form on our historic campus. This sense of familiarity and community are what sets us apart. It's a platform for us to showcase the opportunities Marian offers to K-12 students. Our dedicated faculty and staff engage with youth, and this event brings all that right here on campus, creating a strong sense of belonging."
Guided campus tours were also available for those eager to learn more about Marian University. These allowed families to explore the university’s facilities and envision the possibilities for their children’s future education.
"As a Marian alumna, I can vouch for the transformative power of this institution,” said Nicole Love Owen ’08. “I earned a business degree here, and it has enriched my life in countless ways. I want my children to experience the same. This event is not just about fun, it's about shaping their future.” Owen’s 16-year-old son Christian, who attends Crosspointe Christian Academy, is excited about the camp. “I see it as a stepping-stone towards a possible engineering career,” he said, as his mom agreed. “The event demonstrates Marian's commitment to holistic education."
Families were also treated to free Chick-fil-A sandwiches and taco food truck offerings, t-shirts, and more swag as the sense of community and camaraderie continued. The inaugural Summer Camps Fair had been a day of summer fun, bringing families together from all walks of life.
"This was a lot of fun," said 15-year-old Callie Johnson of Greenwood. "I'm excited to attend the health care camp because I may become a doctor one day, so this will give me a bit of what to expect."
