Welcome to Dawg Nation

Founded in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in the United States. This esteemed institute of higher learning is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, researchers, and informed citizens who will change the world.

That’s where you come in. The University of Georgia’s Innovation District has partnered with WorldStrides to host the inaugural Innovation Academy in summer 2024. This unique program is your opportunity to test-drive life as a college student, enjoy unparalleled access to different departments and facilities across the campus, network with leading visionaries on the UGA faculty and staff, and work collaboratively with your fellow high schoolers to design elegant and lasting solutions to problems currently facing the local Athens, GA community.

Ready, Set, Innovate!

Have you ever had a brilliant, life-changing idea for a new creation, or else just like the idea of inventing something fun, creative, and useful? Congratulations, you’re an innovator! (Even if you’re not sure how to bring your wonderful ideas to life yet.)

The University of Georgia is a global leader in innovation—the successful development of new ideas, products, and services designed to meet various needs. You can probably find examples of successful I-District innovations already in your home! New cultivars of blueberries, peanuts, and soybeans have all been produced and brought to market through UGA. During your time at I-Academy, you’ll learn the skills you need to successfully take a concept from idea to reality.

Meet the Head Dog(s)

In 2019, Sports Illustrated officially declared Uga the white English bulldog as The Greatest Mascot in College Football History. Since 1956, Uga has been the beloved mascot of the University of Georgia. If you get the chance to meet Uga, keep an eye out for his spiked collar, the official symbol of his position on campus, his custom-made jersey, and his on-field air-conditioned doghouse.

To keep Uga company, Hairy Dawg—the costumed UGA mascot—made his first appearance at the 1981 Sugar Bowl. Together, this bulldog squad makes up the heart and soul of the University of Georgia.

A Day in the Life at I-Academy*

7:30am – Breakfast in the Dining Hall

8:30am – Daily Download: Innovation Skills Development

9:00am – Workshop Rotation:

• Data-driven decision making

• Discovering set-based solutions

• Fostering a growth mindset

• Implementing lean agile workflows

12:00pm – Lunch in the Dining Hall

1:30pm – Rec Sports Challenge Course

4:00pm – Brain Break

5:30pm – Social Dinner

10:30pm – Lights Out