Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Storytellers, Researchers, and Community Leaders

The NextGen Summer Scholars Program is a five-week immersive summer experience that equips Baltimore City high school students with the technical skills, mentorship, and real-world experiences needed to become powerful storytellers and community leaders. Through project-based learning, scholars explore how digital media, research, and civic engagement can be used to document local history, amplify community voices, and inspire meaningful change.

Hosted by the Judge Alexander Williams, Jr. Center for Education, Justice & Ethics in partnership with YouthWorks, the University of Maryland School of Public Health, and Beloved Community Services Corporation, the program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning in photography, digital storytelling, audio and video production, interviewing, community-based research, and social media communications. Throughout the summer, scholars work alongside educators, public health professionals, media practitioners, and community leaders who help them transform curiosity into creative action.

Beyond developing technical skills, the program emphasizes leadership, collaboration, critical thinking, and civic responsibility. Scholars engage in community mapping, historical exploration, wellness reflections, guest lectures, and collaborative storytelling projects that encourage them to see themselves not only as students, but as creators, researchers, and advocates for their communities.

This gallery captures the scholars' journey throughout Summer 2026—from their first day together to collaborative workshops, guest speakers, neighborhood exploration, creative exercises, and moments of reflection. Each photograph represents another step in a summer dedicated to learning, growth, and discovering the power of telling stories that matter.