Lessons in Leadership From Inspiring Role Models

Role models are people who lead by example, empowering us to set big goals and follow our curiosity. That’s why our Leaders-In-Training (LIT) program introduces students in grades 7-9  to world-changing role models – our Hall of Famers! As an LIT, you also can become a positive role model for K-6 Camp Invention^® campers as you guide them through high-energy STEM experiences and encourage their creative ideas.

Read below to uncover a few amazing innovators who will motivate you to be the best role model you can be!

Important Lessons From Hall of Famers

Many of our nation’s most impactful inventors were not born with a passion for invention, and they certainly weren’t born with a big idea or the answer to a major problem. Chances are that their innovative thinking was inspired by role models they encountered in their lives. From parents to teachers to famous inventors, role models are all around us, teaching us important lessons that carry us along our journey and remind us not to give up on our dreams.

Role models inspire us to persist through challenges and setbacks

“Perseverance is the one thing that makes the difference. You don’t fail until you give up.”

— Lonnie Johnson, inventor of the Super Soaker® 

Role models remind you to let your curiosity guide you to discoveries

“I think what encourages curiosity in kids is asking questions of them, finding out what they are passionate about, what they are curious about. What kinds of wonders do they have about the world they live in? For each person, I think the answers are different or the questions they want to answer are different.” 

— Jennifer Doudna, co-inventor of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing with Emmanuelle Charpentier

Role models motivate you to believe you have the power to create a brighter future

“Why is problem solving so fun and interesting? Well, it has that pleasure associated with actually changing the world.” 

— R. Rox Anderson, inventor of laser dermatology

Role models remind you that you are capable as you are

“What was remarkable about my childhood was that I had such supportive parents who never discouraged me from having ambition. They never told me that girls weren’t supposed to go into chemistry.”

— Gertrude Belle Elion, inventor of anti-leukemia drugs

Find Your Next Role Model This Summer

We want kids to believe they can change the world – because they can! So, throughout the LIT experience, you’ll receive insights and encouragement from Hall of Famers who already have.

The stories and lessons of these confident creators show that you also are capable of achieving awesome feats. As you continue your leadership or innovative journey, be sure to seek out mentors and role models who will encourage you to keep your goals sky-high. Remember to lift others whenever you can along the way, too!

Are You Ready to Help Others Shine?

LITs at Camp Invention gain the opportunity to develop strong leadership skills and learn about impactful STEM role models while becoming an inspiration themselves.

Are you ready to step into the shoes of a role model by motivating others to shine their brightest? Sign up to become an LIT at a camp near you!