Jayme
What I bring to the Team
I am currently the only person in the country with the combination of the following
degrees: a B.S. in psychology/biology, an M.S. in Creativity and Change Leadership, and
a professional certificate in Free-Choice Learning. This vantage point allows me to
weave the latest research from these rich fields directly into our programs. I tap into the
relationships in my science, creativity, and informal learning networks to make our
programs innovative, authentic, and cutting edge. Check out my blog posts at:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jayme-cellitioci/
Favorite 21st Century Skill to Promote
Master creativity educator E. Paul Torrance identified the skill “Keep Open” as a key
creative thinking skill. With creativity being identified as the number one leadership skill
(according to an IBM research study of 1,500 CEOs), I see tremendous value in
encouraging children to keep open when they are generating ideas and options. We so
often pursue the first idea that comes to mind, but when we keep open, we take the
time to gather new data, stretch our imaginations, and consider the best possibilities!
Impactful Moments with National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees
While sitting on a shuttle bus on the way to an Induction ceremony, I had the
opportunity to listen to Chuck Hull (inventor of Stereolithography, the technology
behind 3D printing) talk about the relationship between invention, innovation, and
entrepreneurship. This 1-degree connection to our nation’s greatest innovators highly
informs our curriculum. It is often these organic conversations that end up making the
biggest impacts! I will also never forget seeing Inductee Jim West’s (inventor of the electret
microphone) eyes tear up after receiving a handwritten note from an urban student that grew to
admire him through Invention Project. It is this lifelong invention-learning continuum
that separates our programs from all others.
Most Memorable Program Piloting Moment
I love witnessing A-Ha moments up close. There is nothing better than a child lighting
his/her first LED or getting a motor to work as part of a circuit. One of my favorite Camp
Invention piloting moments was witnessing a young girl design an innovative medical
device for one of her relatives. I love to see the light bulb go on when a child makes the
connection between invention and enhancing, changing—and sometimes even saving—
people’s lives.
My Advice to Camp Invention Parents
Listen to the stories behind your child’s invention. Notice details and ask them questions
about those details. What may look like duct tape and cardboard to you, most likely
represents their practice with problem solving, collaborating, critically and creatively
thinking, and building their self-confidence one LED, motor, and pulley at a time.