• It is important for students in the CYL program to have multiple opportunities to engage with children and youth in community settings with connections to their academic studies at Hampshire College. These opportunities will be facilitated through course-based placements, internships, and independent studies. 

• We value the establishment of community connections that last longer than a semester, and we emphasize the importance for students to consider building a sustained relationship with an organization across their time at Hampshire.

• CYL students are encouraged to make connections between their community engagements with young people and their academic interests and questions through such means as reflective and analytic writing and creative work.

How do I get involved? 

• Join the CYL listserve
• Ask faculty associated with the program to serve on your Div. II or Div. III committee; see the list of affiliated faculty at our website
• Attend lectures or discussions sponsored by the program; visit the CYL Calendar
• Create your own  CYL Concentration
• Get involved with projects or research led by affiliated CYL faculty

Faculty and staff who can answer your questions:

Laura Wenk, CYL Program director
Associate Professor of Cognition and Education
School of Cognitive Science
Extension: 5364
Office: ASH 136
Email: lwenk@hampshire.edu

Karina Fernandez
Educational Outreach Coordinator
CYL Program extension: 5659
Office: ASH 132
Email: kafernandez@hampshire.edu

Melissa Burch
Assistant Professor of Cognitive Development
School of Cognitive Science
Extension: 5465
Office: ASH 135
Email: mburch@hampshire.edu

Rachel Conrad
Associate Professor of Psychology and Childhood Studies
School of Critical Social Inquiry
Extension: 5394
Office: FPH 205
Email: rconrad@hampshire.edu

Sarah Frenette
Teacher Licensure Coordinator
Phone: 538.3330
Email: sfrenette@hampshire.edu

Kristen Luschen
Associate Professor of
School of Critical Social Inquiry
Extension: 5357
Email: kluschen@hampshire.edu

Natalie Sowell
Assistant Professor of Theatre
School of Interdisciplinary Arts
Extension: 6099
Office: EDH 27
Email: nsowell@hampshire.edu