MRU Camps: Celebrating 35 years of skill-building, development and leadership

Mount Royal University Camps is celebrating 35 years of promoting personal growth, diversity and community — with no plans to slow down over the next 35. MRU Camps began in 1990 as a continuing education initiative, giving kids an opportunity to leap — and a soft place to land.

“Our vision for the program was clear: to create opportunities for children and youth to come to Mount Royal (then a college) and experience a university setting while participating in innovative, creative and fun activities,” says Brent Mann, director of MRU’s Department of Event, Theatre and Hospitality Services, who led the program from 1996 until 2009.

“We take pride in creating a space where learning, exploration and fun come together to shape the next generation of leaders and innovators,” says Jason Unsworth, director of the Department of Business and Retail Services, which includes MRU Camps. This long-standing tradition of hosting educational camps has given many kids — from kindergarteners to teens — a safe and encouraging space to learn and grow.

A legacy of open minds and open hearts

“For our campers, camps introduce new activities and ideas, in which they can develop new interests and passions, such as an interest in the STEM field,” explains Laura Mclellan, program supervisor for MRU Camps, who says the programs act as a launching pad for campers.

Mclellan attended MRU Camps as a child and says the fun and welcoming environment helped her — and many other kids — become more confident by allowing them to try new things without the fear of making mistakes.

With a dedication to enriched learning, MRU Camps leverages its unique position in an established setting offering campers a dynamic and immersive educational experience.

“Our camps give children and youth access to MRU’s outstanding facilities, from cutting-edge science labs and world-class Conservatory programs to aviation training and recreation facilities like climbing walls and swimming pools,” Unsworth says.

Mclellan, who instructed camps prior to becoming a program supervisor, says her ultimate goal is to foster an environment that optimizes every camper’s comfort, engagement and enjoyment while delivering top-tier programming.

“For me, the most rewarding part of instructing camps was watching children grow throughout to become more comfortable, engaged and passionate about camp activities and their interests,” she says.

Mann seconds this sentiment, “It was deeply fulfilling to witness a camper arrive on day one feeling apprehensive about being left, only to see them, by the end of the week, eagerly exchanging phone numbers and planning future meetups with new friends.”

Inspiring young minds through innovative camps

Shaping the next generation of innovators means camp programs are ever-evolving, adapting to meet the changing needs of the community. MRU Camps has embraced technology and innovation, ensuring that programming keeps pace with advancements in education and industry trends. Educators regularly collaborate with internal and external partners to ensure they are always finding new ways to inspire and engage young minds.

“Over the years, we introduced several groundbreaking programs that incorporate science, art, theatre and computer activities,” Mann says. Today, MRU Camps is known for several unique and highly-sought after camps including Young Aviators, which is offered in partnership with Mount Royal’s Department of Aviation. Participants in this program attend a field trip to the Springbank Airport to tour the hangars and planes, while also getting hands-on training with the same flight simulators used by aviation students. This specialized camp is one of many offerings that give children and youth the opportunity to explore subject areas that are not traditionally offered in school or other extracurricular settings.

“While the education component of camps is paramount, we recognize the importance of mental health and well-being. We aim to create a safe and inclusive environment where children build confidence, resilience and social connections,” Unsworth explains.

The grass is greener where you water it

Outside of positively influencing the lives of the campers, MRU Camps supports the larger Calgary community in a variety of ways, like offering discounted camp enrolment for children of MRU students and alumni. Employees also benefit from discounted camp opportunities, making it easier for parents to bring their children to work during the summer months. The Camps team believes this strengthens the sense of community and connects people from the past, present and future at MRU.

MRU also offers bursaries, thanks to sponsors, donors and community programs like Rogers Birdies for Kids presented by Alta Link, to help alleviate financial barriers that might be standing in the way of a family sending their child to camp.“Not only do these bursaries support families by freeing up time for parents to seek employment and training opportunities, they directly benefit the children who gain valuable experiences that enrich their social, emotional and physical well-being,” Unsworth says. In 2024, 69 bursaries were awarded, benefitting 46 children.

In recent years, programming was expanded to include two weeks of specialized camps for kids with disabilities. “Through our partnership with the Calgary Adapted Hub, we provide children and youth with opportunities to build confidence, make lasting friendships, and explore physical activity in exciting new ways.”

Beyond that, MRU Camps contributes to the larger Calgary community through food and toy drives, as well as offering volunteer, practicum and employment opportunities for students.

“Our focus remains on the future — preparing today’s children and youth for tomorrow’s world while making camp a fun, engaging and transformative experience,” Unsworth says.