DAPCEP Mail - March Highlights & Summer Enrollment Coming Soon!
Jessica Turner <jturner@dapcep.org>
[TEST] March Highlights & Summer Enrollment Coming Soon!
Michelle L. Reaves <updates@dapcep.org>
Tue, Mar 31, 2026 at 1:27 PM Reply-To: updates@dapcep.org
To: "\"JessicaTurner\"" <jturner@dapcep.org>
Hello DAPCEPFamilies!
March was an exciting and impactful month across DAPCEP, filled with hands-on STEM experiences and new opportunities for students to explore, discover, and grow. From our STEM Day at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo to the launch of two new classes at Michigan Central, students had meaningful chances to engage with real-world learning environments.
We also proudly hosted our Spring Showcase, led interactive workshops at the Girls STEAM Summit, and connected with families at the Youth Career & Parent Summit at Fellowship Chapel.The month wrapped up with an engaging STEM Day at Eastern Michigan University designed especially for high school students.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to share that Summer Experiences enrollment opensApril 13. Be sure to visit dapcep.org that day to secure your student’s spot in one of our popular summer programs.
Thank you for continuing to support your student’s STEM journey with DAPCEP!
Sincerely,
Michelle L. Reaves Executive Director, DAPCEP
STEM
Day at Western Michigan University
Students from Michigan GEAR UP partner schools traveled to Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo for a special DAPCEPSTEM Day experience, presented in collaboration with Gear Up partners Grand Valley State and Wayne State Universities.More than 100 high school students from across the state participated in engaging, hands-on workshops exploring topics such as forensic science, game design, drone exploration, and more.
Throughout the day, students rotated between sessions on a college campus giving them a meaningful glimpse into college life while building confidence in their future pathways. Experiences like this help students see themselves on college campuses and imagine what’s possible next in their STEM journey
New Experiences at Michigan Central
DAPCEPlaunched exciting new classes at Michigan Central, including Electric Vehicle Design and Future Engineers: Robot Challenge, giving students hands-on opportunities to explore the technologies shaping tomorrow’s world.
In Electric Vehicle Design, students explored the future of mobility through a creative, interactive learning experience facilitated by Ford Motor Company employees. They engaged directly with concepts behind electric transportation and gained insight into emerging careers in advanced mobility.
Meanwhile, in Future Engineers: Robot Challenge, students designed and built their own robots, bringing them to life through coding, programming lights and sounds, and creating dynamic movements.They also challenged their robots to navigate obstacles and complete tasks, building both technical skills and confidence along the way
These new experiences at Michigan Central are helping students connect classroom learning to real-world innovation happening right here in our region.
Girls Summit at NewLab Michigan Central
Students in grades 6–8 recently participated in engaging, hands-on STEM activities. They also had the special opportunity to hear from DAPCEP alum Luree Brown of Ford Motor Company. She shared insights about her journey into engineering and connected with students during an interactive Q&Asession, answering questions about college pathways, careers in STEM, and what it’s like to work in the field today.
It was an inspiring moment for students to see a DAPCEP alum thriving in her career and giving back to the next generation. Be sure to check out her alumni story highlighted below!
Spring Showcase
Toward the end of the month, we proudly hosted our annual Spring Showcase, celebrating the close of a successful spring semester across DAPCEP programs. Students shared their
projects and demonstrated what they’ve learned with fellow students, families, and members of the DAPCEP community—highlighting their creativity, growth, and hard work throughout the term.
We were also honored to recognize our graduating seniors during the event by presenting them with special DAPCEP graduation cords to wear on their big day—a meaningful symbol of their commitment to STEM and their journey with our community
Families had the opportunity to connect with local partners and explore additional resources from organizations including Oakland University, the Detroit Zoo, and others who joined us in supporting student success.
Thank you to our teachers, supporters, and staff for helping make this such a memorable and inspiring celebration for our students and families!
STEM Opportunities
Summer Enrollment BeginsApril 13th
We’re just a few weeks away from opening enrollment for our summer classes! Stay tuned so your student can be part of the exciting STEM experiences we have to offer, including new classes and opportunities listed below:
New Summer Camp for 8th–10th Graders
Get ready for an exciting FREE summer camp experience! Running July 6 through August 7, 8:00AM–4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, this full-day camp is designed for rising 8–10th grade students (ages 13–16).
Students will strengthen their math and ELAskills while exploring STEM through hands-on, interactive experiments—making learning fun and engaging. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover, create, and grow in a supportive, energetic environment. Lunch and snacks are included!
Enrollment opensApril 13, so mark your calendars and be sure to secure your student’s spot for this exciting summer experience. Don’t miss out!
Summer Employment at DAPCEP Office for Students
This summer, students have the chance to gain real-world experience by working in our office for a 6-week paid position. Students will support STEM education for youth while learning valuable skills about working in the nonprofit sector
Students must be between the ages of 14 and 24 to apply, and be residents of the City of Detroit. Use code C1163 when applying to join the DAPCEP team.
As we prepare for an exciting spring and summer season, we’re seeking passionate educators to lead and inspire our students, along with a FinanceAssistant to support our growing programs.
If you’re passionate about education, committed to excellence, and eager to help shape the future of STEM, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
Pre-employment drug screening and background check are required.
Learn more about the available opportunities and apply by clicking the learn more button below.
DAPCEPParent Focus Group Opportunity
We’re looking to hear from a wide group of DAPCEP parents to better understand the impact of our programs and how we can continue to improve. If you’re interested in sharing your feedback, please complete the form by clicking the button below to be considered for our upcoming focus group.
Target Session Date:April 2026
Participant Stipend Provided
Your Student Can Help us Design a Program!
We have the chance to secure a grant to create a program designed by students! Students can tell us what their dream DAPCEP program looks like, have the chance to design the program, and play a role in leading the program facilitation!
Fill out the survey below to help us create a new class created by students and earn an entry into a raffle for 2, $50 gift cards.
Be sure to follow us on social media by clicking the icons below to stay up to date!
Alumni Spotlight: Luree Brown
Luree was introduced to engineering via a DAPCEP class in 4th grade, where they made cars out of orange juice cartons and wooden wheels. From there she was hooked, knowing that one day she aspired to become an engineer, to help fulfill her life's mission of changing the world.
— Luree Brown, Experience Owner for Customer Experience at Ford Motor Company
Luree Brown is an Experience Owner for Customer Experience at Ford Motor Company, where she leads the development of innovative, customer-centered experiences. She has contributed to the launch of several major vehicles, including the F-150 Lightning, F-150, Ranger, and Escape, and is skilled at turning customer insights into impactful strategies and campaigns. Her work blends project management, human-centered design, and creative problem-solving to deliver meaningful results.
Adynamic and empathetic leader, Luree has led teams to success while maintaining a strong focus on collaboration and impact. She is also committed to giving back, having served on the board of Impact100 Metro Detroit. Luree holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan and a Master’s in Engineering Management from Wayne State University, and was recognized as part of Ford’sThirty Under 30 Class of 2019.
Luree was introduced to engineering via a DAPCEP class in 4th grade, where they made cars out of orange juice cartons and wooden wheels. From there she was hooked, knowing that one day she aspired to become an engineer, to help fulfill her life's mission of changing the world.
ShareYour DAPCEPExperience!
Has DAPCEPmade 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 DAPCEPstory—we can’t wait to celebrate your journey!
