Laurel Leads

List of 5 items.

• Stanford University (Stan-X)

  Stan-X is a science education program that partners high schools with Stanford University researchers for authentic genetics research using fruit flies. Laurel will be the first in Ohio to join 20 other schools from across the United States as a partner in this prestigious program. Stan-X trains high school teachers to run research labs and classes that can produce data that may be of use to scientists around the world. Students in partner schools learn molecular biology techniques and use Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) as a model organism to research human diseases like diabetes and pancreatic cancer. The findings and novel fly strains generated by the students contribute to research used by a global community of scientists and are sometimes published in peer-reviewed journals. Along with the experience of learning and working alongside researchers, students who complete this program receive Laurel academic credit.

• Yale University

  Laurel’s partnership with Yale’s Center for Emotional Intelligence provides a unique platform for student-led innovation in social and emotional learning (SEL). Participants in the InspirED program collaborate with university experts to build a more inclusive school environment. From initial design to final evaluation, students lead the charge in implementing data-driven initiatives that strengthen belonging and social safety within the student body. Students who complete this program will gain valuable and demonstrable experience learning and working alongside researchers.

• University of Pennsylvania, Wharton

  Developed in collaboration with UPenn experts, the Social Innovators Program is an elite entrepreneurial accelerator for motivated students. This online program guides participants through the full lifecycle of social venture creation, from initial concept to community-wide impact. Graduates earn a prestigious Certificate in Social Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania, signaling their mastery of the mindset and technical skills required to lead meaningful global change.

• Case Western Reserve University, Weatherhead School of Management

  During a summer 2026 pilot partnership, Laurel Upper School students have the opportunity to participate in an immersive, studio-style business learning experience at Case Western Reserve University. Students will work in teams on a real-world business challenge presented by a community client, gaining exposure to core concepts in business, leadership, and professional communication. Along the way, they will learn how different business disciplines approach complex problems, develop practical project management skills, and practice presenting ideas in authentic professional settings. The experience is enriched by guest speakers from the Case Western alumni network, the use of innovative mixed-reality learning tools, and partnerships with cultural institutions in University Circle to deepen exploration of business topics in dynamic, real-world contexts.

• Harvard University

  Students will enroll in a year-long interdisciplinary course, Leadership in Business, Law, and Government, exploring business strategy, finance, law, and public policy through case studies drawn from Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School, and the Harvard Kennedy School. Laurel/Harvard alumnae will serve as mentors, sharing real-world expertise and career pathways. Students will complete a final project such as a white paper, business plan, policy brief, or original case study. As a culminating experience, students will travel to Harvard to present their work, explore graduate programs, and participate in curated programming. Through this experience, students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and systems-level problem-solving skills and receive academic credit through Laurel. This partnership will cultivate a pipeline of young women into fields where they are historically underrepresented.