CMSS 2020 SUMMER PROGRAMS:

We hope that you and your family are doing well as we all are facing an unprecedented time in our global history. Due to the health and safety threat from the COVID-19 outbreak, the Center for Multicultural Student Services (CMSS) has canceled its 2020 summer programs (Male Academy for Academic Achievement-MA and Female Institute for Learning and Development-FI). James Madison University officials have been closely monitoring the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, partnering with the Virginia Department of Health and public health experts here on campus to adjust university operations at home and abroad. Every year we look forward to our pre-collegiate programs and engaging participants from across the United States. As this may be a disappointment, the health and safety of our entire community is a top priority and we are taking a number of precautionary measures.

We thank you for your interest in and support of the Male Academy and Female Institute summer programs and certainly hope that if you are eligible, consider applying next year. We wish you well the remaining months of school and summer.

The JMU Male Academy for Academic Achievement and Female Institute for Learning and Development are exciting two-week summer programs that provide an opportunity for students who will be rising 9th through 12th graders in the Fall to live and learn on a college campus, as well as enrich their development academically and socially.

This academic enrichment experience includes classes in Math, Writing and History with passionate and dedicated instructors from across the country. Other sessions provided to enhance personal development include topics in the area of leadership skills, career development, diversity, recreation, community service, personal and social problem solving, and teambuilding. Goals of the program are that participants will:

• Develop knowledge about the collegiate experience and tools necessary to be accepted into and successful in college
• Learn to navigate a college campus with awareness of the types of resources available
• Develop meaningful relationships with young men/women in their peer groups
• Adopt healthy views on manhood/womanhood

When Do These Programs Take Place?

Our programs traditionally begin on a Sunday in July, and last for 2 weeks, ending on a Saturday. Both programs respectively begin with an opening ceremony for participants and families and end with a closing banquet for both as well.

Who Is Eligible?

The programs are for rising 9th through 12th grade students. In the selection process, an emphasis will be placed on: students with limited exposure to college, minority students, those who would be first generation college students, and/or students from low socio-economic backgrounds.

However, all students are encouraged to apply. Young women/men from a variety of diverse backgrounds are selected for participation in the program each year and learn a lot from one another as a result of our strategic selections.

What Does It Cost?

The cost of the program is $500.00. This cost includes housing, meals, tuition and fees, activities, etc. If accepted into the program, a $250.00 non-refundable deposit will be required in May. The remaining balance of $250.00 will be due in June. All payment must be submitted online. Specific dates will be communicated upon acceptance. 

How Are Participants Selected?

Applicants, parents/guardians, school officials and those offering recommendations will complete and submit the required online forms. From there, the program director along with a selection committee will select participants for the program based upon application materials submitted by the deadline.

How Do I Apply?

Applications will go live at the end of February. If you would like to be notified when the applications are available, please complete our interest form. If you should have any questions, we can be reached at maleacademy@jmu.edu or femaleinstitute@jmu.edu. Thank you for your interest!