Challenge to Excellence

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Last Updated: Mar 09, 2026, 01:15 PM

SERC-produced camps include; Challenge to Excellence, STEM Research Academy, Involving Girls in STEAM, and, Sensory Engineering. 

Interactive engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is at the core of each camp.  Fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills while encouraging teamwork and collaboration, each camp immerses campers in real-world challenges and cutting-edge technologies.  These camps inspire curiosity and prepare the next generation for the rapidly evolving workforce. Campers will gain technical knowledge and develop essential soft skills like communication and adaptability, which are crucial in today’s fast-paced, innovation-driven world. Ultimately, SERC camps provide a unique platform to inspire young minds and cultivate the skills needed for future success.

Details about challenge to excellence camp is given below.

Challenge to Excellence

June  1-6, 2025 - 6th-8th grades
June 15-20, 2025 - 9th-12th grades

Now in its 42nd year, Challenge to Excellence is one of the most respected and long-standing summer rental programs for academically talented students in the Midwest. The program’s major goal is to provide students with opportunities to “stretch themselves” in learning experiences that promote higher-level thinking skills and creativity in a variety of academic subjects, such as math, art, psychology, drama, biology, and many others. Camp staff are creative teachers and counselors who are dedicated to providing safe, fun learning experiences for campers.

Many of our former campers have matriculated at our finest universities and are now teachers, doctors, engineers, journalists, computer scientists, and pharmacists. One of our former Challenge to Excellence students received a Pulitzer Prize for journalism.

Challenge to Excellence Registration and Details

Registration and Costs

Camp Costs:
Commuter: $480
Residential:  $595

If registering online, payment must be made in full.  To set up split payments, call 618/536-7751 to register or, complete the registration form.

All campers must submit a Camp Release Form  

Registration: 

June 1-6, Challenge to Excellence (6th - 8th grades)


June 15-20, Challenge to Excellence (9th -12th grades)

Camp Activities

Structured, supervised activities including activities from the STEM Education Research Center, College of Education and Human Services, College of Engineering, Theatre, and Art will be provided to all campers throughout their stay, as well as recreation and social engagement opportunities. Campers have the option to register for daytime attendance (commuter) or stay overnight (residential). 

Campers have the option to register for daytime attendance (commuter) or stay overnight (residential). 

What's Included?

  • Meals from Monday to Friday
  • Educational supplies and materials
  • Limited accident medical insurance
  • Camp T-shirt
  • Recreational activities

Program Check-in: SIU Campus, East Campus, 4 pm on Sunday - the first day of each camp.

Program Times: Varies each day but generally 8 am – 6 pm

Program Location: SIU Carbondale Campus

Program Requirement: The Camp Release Form is required for camp participation and must be received in our office prior to camp beginning. 

Admission Criteria

The academic program consists of several courses/learning experiences designed to challenge campers in mind, body, and spirit. All activities encourage campers to use their creativity and problem-solving skills.  It is recommended that students score at the 90th percentile or above on the math, science, and/or language arts sections of an achievement test however, the camp welcomes all students who are up to a challenge.

Contact Information

Dr. Jose Martinez
Camp Director
For camp questions
Phone: (832) 768-1156
jdmh2005@siu.edu

Rebecca Dycus
For registration questions
rdycus@siu.edu