This year UNCW will again host one of six Summer Ventures in Science and Mathematics (SVSM) Institutes administered by the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics.   SVSM is a cost-free, state-funded program for academically talented students who may pursue careers based in science and mathematics. The program brings rising juniors and seniors together in residential settings for four weeks of intensive study on a university campus (Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, NC Central University, UNC Charlotte, UNC Wilmington, or Western Carolina University.)  Information regarding  the 1999 UNCW Summer Ventures program is below.. Additional funding by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund through their Student Science Enrichment Program provides use of the Research Vessel Cape Fear (photo included) for oceanographic research off the coast of southeastern North Carolina.

A distinguished faculty of UNCW professors and master high school teachers guides students through an academic program of specially designed courses to provide experience in scientific inquiry and mathematical problem solving. At UNCW Summer Ventures is administered through the Science and Mathematics Education Center. Mrs. Karen Shafer is the SMEC/SVSM Director; Dr. Michael Smith, UNCW Department of Earth Sciences, is the SVSM Faculty Coordinator; Mr. Bill Kawczynski is the SMEC/SVSM project manager; and Ms. Tyese Scott and Mr. Jerry Oates are Co-Directors of Residence Life.

1999 Program

Academic Course Titles, University Faculty Instructors, High School Master Teachers

  • Recombinant DNA: Dr. Carl Lundeen and Mr. Gary Cavender
  • Coastal Ecosystems, Environmental Dynamics: Dr. Lynn Leonard and Mr. Wayne Holden and Ms. Rebecca Mayo
  • Coastal Field Geology: Dr. Bill Harris and Ms. Amy Rider
  • Computer Applications in Physics: Dr. Gabriel Lugo and Mr. William King
  • Mathematical Modeling with Probability and Statistics: Dr. Ken Gurganus and Ms. Julie Riggins
  • Microcomputer Applications in Chemistry: Dr. Charles Ward and Mr. Mike Kelly
  • Physical Oceanography: Dr. Richard Laws and Mr. Bill Palmer and Mr. Philip Sutton
  • Funding for use of the research vessel Cape Fear provided through a grant from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund.

Residence Life

Ms. Tyese Scott and Mr. Jerry Oates serve as Co-Directors of Residence Life and oversee a staff of eight trained residence life assistants.