Junior Council Leadership Program | Indiana Academy of Science

Leadership | Service | Science in Action

Open to students in grades 7–12 across Indiana.

The IAS Junior Council is a year-long leadership program for students interested in science, leadership, service, and professional growth. Members participate in monthly workshops, IAS programs, volunteer opportunities, STEM experiences, and leadership activities.

Junior Council Meetings & Leadership Workshops

Junior Council participation provides meaningful leadership experience and may count toward community service hours, as IAS is a nonprofit professional organization. Students gain exposure to scientific careers, statewide networking opportunities, and hands-on involvement with IAS programs and events.
Junior Council generally meets on the last Saturday of each month from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM at the Indiana Academy of Science Headquarters, 1100 W. 42nd Street, Indianapolis, with a hybrid Zoom option for students participating from across Indiana.

Each meeting includes Junior Council business, leadership activities, and a workshop or experience designed to build practical skills for college, careers, and community leadership.

Tentative 2026–2027 Schedule — workshop topics and speakers may change.

Date | Leadership | Workshop
August 29, 2026 College Essay & Career Readiness — Dr. Michelle Marincel Payne, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

September 26, 2026 Communication & Public Speaking — Dr. Stephanie Wideman, University of Indianapolis

October 31, 2026 Leadership & Mentorship — Donald A. Bender, Indianapolis Youth Leadership Academy

November 21, 2026 Professional Etiquette & Manners — Beverly Randolph, The Protocol School of Indianapolis

January 30, 2027 Stress, Anxiety & Emotional Regulation — Tracy Robinson, Founder & Nervous System Specialist, Behavior & Emotion

February 27, 2027 Government & Science Policy

March 27, 2027 Event Planning & Management — Liz Subrin, Indiana Academy of Science

April 24, 2027 Fundraising & Philanthropy

May 29, 2027 Resume & CV Development

June 26, 2027 LinkedIn, Social Media & Digital Footprint

Junior Council Executive Leadership

The IAS Junior Council is student-led, with members electing Executive Leadership to represent the Council, support meetings and activities, and work with IAS leadership throughout the year.

2026–2027 Executive Leadership
• Drithi Raipet — President
• Olivia Snell — Vice President
• Phoebe Gu — Secretary

Leadership Points Program

Junior Council members earn points for meaningful participation and growth throughout the year, including Junior Council engagement, IAS involvement, STEM experiences, community service, professional development, fundraising, and academic achievement.

View the 2026–2027 Leadership Points Guide

Junior Council Leadership Points Submission Form

Ready to join?

Students in grades 7–12 from across Indiana are invited to apply for the 2026–2027 IAS Junior Council Leadership Program.

After an application is received, IAS will follow up with next steps. Accepted members will receive a welcome from the Junior Council Executive Leadership along with program information.

The student and their parent/guardian will also receive the Junior Council Code of Conduct & Participation Agreement for electronic signature.

Questions may be directed to:
director@indianaacademyofscience.org