A transformative, week-long environmental science experience for high school students, July 5–11
Vermont Business Magazine Vermont State University’s Lyndon Campus will welcome high school students from across Vermont and the region for the Governor’s Institutes of Vermont’s 2026 Weather & Climate Science Institute, taking place from Sunday, July 5 through Saturday, July 11.
This immersive summer program invites Vermont students in grades 9 through 11 to explore how weather is predicted, how climate systems function, and how a changing climate is affecting communities. Participants are guided by the expertise of VTSU Lyndon’s nationally recognized Atmospheric Sciences program.
Throughout the week, students will delve into the fundamentals of weather, climate, and environmental science through applied learning. They will work side by side with professional meteorologists, newsroom weather personalities, environmental stewards, and storm-chasing experts. Using advanced tools such as weather balloons and data-driven generative modeling software, participants will gather and interpret atmospheric data in order to understand how weather events are observed, analyzed, and communicated.
“One of the most exciting things we get to do at VTSU is introduce young people to the science behind the weather they experience every day,” said Andrew Westgate, Assistant Professor of Atmospheric Sciences at VTSU Lyndon. “The Institute gives students hands-on opportunities with real meteorological tools and data, just like our undergraduates use. They learn not only how weather is forecasted, but why it matters, how it affects communities, safety, industries, and the future of our climate. It is inspiring to watch students discover that they can play a role in understanding and communicating this science.”
“I loved the field trips and guest speakers. I really enjoyed learning about all the different careers people have pursued connecting to atmospheric sciences. GIV was all about making new friends, stepping out of my comfort zone, and openly exploring topics that interest me,” shared Tegan Bushey, an alum of the 2025 Weather & Climate Science Institute.
The Institute is offered in partnership with the Governor’s Institutes of Vermont (GIV), a longstanding Vermont nonprofit that provides college-level, experiential summer learning opportunities to high school students. Each year, GIV convenes institutes across a range of disciplines on college campuses statewide, giving students access to advanced resources, professional mentorship, and a residential campus experience.
“GIV is committed to giving Vermont students learning experiences that spark curiosity, confidence, and possibility,” said Jennie Gartner, Director of Programs at GIV. “Students leave this program with new skills, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. For some, it even ignites a passion that shapes their future studies or careers. We’re thrilled to partner with VTSU to make opportunities like this accessible to all Vermont families.”
During the Weather & Climate Science Institute, students will:
- Conduct extreme weather forecasting, including storm‑chasing simulations
- Present a live weather segment using a green screen
- Interview community members about local climate impacts
- Build relationships with professionals in meteorology and climate science
- Connect with peers who share their interest in environmental science
College credit is available, and thanks to GIV’s sliding-scale tuition model, Vermont-area students can attend for as little as $10. Applications are open until March 31, 2026 at https://giv.org/apply.
About Vermont State University
Vermont State University provides high-quality, flexible, and affordable education for students seeking associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, certificates, and in-demand professional credentials. Learn more at https://vermontstate.edu.
Vermont State University is built upon the best of Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College. Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, July 1, 2023.
At Vermont State University, we foster a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice and strive to be a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive learning and working environment.
3.16.2026. Vermont State University. VermontState.edu
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