High school juniors, seniors invited to apply for CEO Academy

Entrepreneurial teens can discover what it takes to be a business leader at CEO Academy, a one-week summer camp for high school juniors and seniors. Presented by Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida and the Lutgert College of Business at Florida Gulf Coast University, CEO Academy will take place at the Lutgert College of Business from June 15-19. Applications are now being accepted.

"Hands-on learning is not only fun and engaging, it's the closest thing to acquiring the real-world experience so coveted by young people this age," says Victoria Stephan, president of Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida. "This is a rare opportunity for students to learn from successful entrepreneurs who enjoy sharing their passion for business."

Open to high school juniors and seniors from Collier, Lee and Charlotte counties, CEO Academy allows students to work in project teams with local business leaders and educators. Students learn about business from these experienced professionals as they create business plans and marketing packages based on case studies of specialized international corporations.

Participants will receive a certifi- cate, credentials for college applications and potential internship opportunities.

Camp hours are Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Last year, more than 30 Southwest Florida students attended CEO Academy.

Information and applications for CEO Academy are available from school guidance counselors or the Junior Achievement office at 225-2590. The $100 application fee is fully refundable if the student is not selected.

Junior Achievement is the world's largest organization dedicated to inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in a global economy. The organization provides in-school and after-school programs that focus on three key content areas: work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

In the 2008-2009 school year, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida will reach more than 9,500 students in Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties. For more information, contact the local office or visit www.JASWFL.org .