In partnership with the Truman Presidential Library’s White House Decision Center, the ASU Center for American Institutions is pleased to offer incoming high school sophomores, juniors and seniors an opportunity to join us on the ASU Tempe campus on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 for a High School Leadership Academy.
What is YAWP? A component of the Central Arizona Writing Project, YAWP (Young Adult Writing Program) is designed to offer young writers a non-evaluative environment in which to explore the power of writing.
What is YAWP? A component of the Central Arizona Writing Project, YAWP (Young Adult Writing Program) is designed to offer young writers a non-evaluative environment in which to explore the power of writing.
2026 Topic: Building Better Communities
Our communities are in trouble. Differences of opinion (especially those having to do with politics) start fights between family members, friends and neighbors. Political polarization is making it increasingly hard to see the good in people who aren’t on “the same side” (whatever side that is). Tackling this head on, our focus this week will be on cultivating civic virtues — such as openmindedness, humility and empathy — skills that we need to get through polarizing times.
Some guiding questions that we will be engaging:
The GAME School annually hosts a summer program for students ages 12 to 18, featuring five-day, project-focused workshops.
Melt, bend and sculpt metal to become a master of metal in the 5-day-long welding camp! In this introductory welding camp, you will learn how to use welding machinery and tools to bend and melt metals for one-of-a-kind sculptures and wall hangings! This camp takes place in the state-of-the-art sculpture studio, where you will learn, explore and create with metal.
Work with wood as you create tools, toys and games! In this introductory woodworking camp, you will learn the fundamentals of carving and joinery within the School of Art’s dedicated Woods Studio. Each participant will learn to use the bandsaw and various hand tools to design and create sculptural objects.
Portrait painting has deep roots in history and still has a strong presence in the art world today. In this camp, you’ll learn how to work with oil paints, mix skin tones, tackle proportion and create the illusion of light and form. In addition, you’ll practice mastering 3-D volume, structure and anatomy — all leading up to painting from real life!
