Each summer, the Binghamton University Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) offers students across the Southern Tier unique opportunities to grow, explore, and connect. Chenango Forks Academic Counselor Halie Chauncey leads a summer program that’s as enriching as it is exciting—packed with hands-on activities that make learning feel like an adventure.
This year’s Chenango Forks curriculum blends STEM concepts, outdoor exploration, creative projects, and career discovery into a fun, engaging summer experience. From building marshmallow structures to presenting business ideas in a “Shark Tank” challenge, students will learn valuable skills like collaboration, communication, and problem-solving—all while having a blast.
Weekly “Team Bonding Tuesdays” will build trust and friendships through imaginative group challenges, and students will be encouraged to dig into science and sustainability through garden-based learning. Along the way, they'll develop healthy habits, gain a deeper appreciation for nature, and understand the impact of personal responsibility and environmental care.
Field trips to working farms and even goat yoga sessions will offer students a hands-on connection to agriculture, animals, and wellness—topics that are both fun and foundational. Activities centered around “natural movement” and caring for pets will spark conversations about mental health, physical activity, and lifestyle choices that promote well-being.
As the summer progresses, students will explore career paths in agriculture, science, and conservation, and even visit Cornell University to see firsthand what higher education can offer. They’ll wrap up the season with a student-led presentation at the Liberty Summer Expo, showcasing everything they’ve learned and created.
Programs like this are more than just summer fun—they help students stay academically active and socially connected, preparing them for a strong return to school in the fall. With Halie’s energy and leadership, and a curriculum designed to inspire curiosity and confidence, the Chenango Forks summer program will give students a season to remember—and skills that will last a lifetime.