Many people think campus is quiet all summer long, but that's not true.

After a busy June filled with several orientation sessions, the Gerdin Business Building was buzzing with excitement for the first Young Women in Business Leadership Camp from July 9-14.

Nearly 50 campers in grades 9-12 came from seven states and had a diverse set of backgrounds. Nearly 45% of campers identify as multicultural and approximately one-quarter would be first generation college students. These campers indicated they have a variety of interests and involvement, including athletics, music, theater, community service, mentoring, and honor societies.

Campers spent their evenings at the Iowa 4-H Center in Madrid and their days on campus at the College of Business where they learned about the many majors and careers in business, the importance of team building, networking, and more. They participated in a service project, went on tours, and met many of business faculty, staff, and current Iowa State students. During the camp, organizers and speakers helped them identify how their skills, interests, and talents translate to opportunities in business.

Campers also enjoyed a visit from Iowa's first female governor, Kim Reynolds, who shared her inspirational career path, answered their questions, and stayed afterwards to have photos taken with all of the campers.

One of the goals at the College of Business is to spread the word to young women about the importance of more women entering the business world. Gender balance is good for business. Diversity is good for business. That's why recruiting more young women to business is a priority at Iowa State, not only to increase the diversity in our classrooms, but to provide the talent needed in industry today.

"We will continue to spread the word to young women that there are many wonderful, fulfilling careers available to them in business," said College of Business Raisbeck Endowed Dean David Spalding. "We do this all year with events such as the camp last week and many others."

Did you know? The College of Business hosts an annual Young Women in Business Conference each fall? This popular conference has grown significantly in the last four years, from nearly150 participants to more than 400 last fall. Registration for the next conference on October 23 opens in August. 

ISU alumna Cara Heiden, College of Business Raisbeck Endowed Dean David Spalding, Governor Kim Reynolds, and ISU Interim President Ben Allen with participants from the Young Women in Business Leadership Camp.