Conferences
Engaging the Next Generation Through Impact Challenges
Ami Cook, David Roberts, Lauren Prinzo, and Andrea Hoover
Summary
WVU Extension partnered with the Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, WVU College of Creative Arts and Media (Fashion Design Program) and the WVU Morris L Hayhurst Launch Lab to host the WVU Impact Challenges at the Main Campus in Morgantown, WV. The programs engaged both high school and college students in three tracks; Agriculture, Fashion with a Purpose, and Health Innovation. High school students from across the state were grouped with college students from related disciplines and worked together to create solutions to problems in their communities in each track. They then presented their ideas in a pitch competition.
As part of the program, students were asked to complete a pre and post survey and participate in a post-event focus group discussion. Participants increased skills in identifying community problems, working with a group to map out ideas, sharing ideas and conflict resolution, public speaking/presenting, and starting a business. Focus group data showed anecdotal evidence of positive experiences for both youth and college students when working together as a team, increased interest in attending college, increased confidence in their ability to work together as a group, identify and solve community problems, and present/speak publicly on important topics.
This concurrent session will share information on key elements to creating an Impact Challenge and how to use an Impact Challenge to engage youth in becoming involved in community issues at the local level and beyond.
Details
| Conference | 2025 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference |
| Presentation Type | 30-minute Concurrent |