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The Institute for Innovation & Leadership at Columbus School for Girls
Center for Mathematical Reasoning
Center for Girls' and Young Women's Leadership
Center for Science Research & Engineering
Center for Equity & Belonging
Center for Artistic & Creative Expression
Center for Global Studies & Citizenship

The Institute for Innovation & Leadership at Columbus School for Girls is transforming modern education. This signature program houses six Centers designed to provide experiential learning opportunities that augment and accelerate our core curriculum across the school. The Centers offer original programming, coursework and curricular resources, and access to strategic partnerships in support of our mission. In addition to the incredible Center for Girls’ & Young Women’s Leadership (CGYWL), other Centers include the Center for Mathematical Reasoning (CMR), the Center for Science Research & Engineering (CSRE) , the Center for Equity & Belonging (CEB), the Center for Artistic & Creative Expression (CACE), and the Center for Global Studies & Citizenship (CGSC). Through these Centers, students have access to incomparable experiential learning opportunities that expand their academic excellence, hone in on their skills, and prepare them to become the changemakers of tomorrow. 

There is no other educational experience like the Institute for Innovation & Leadership in central Ohio.

Rose petal with each petal representing a center and the middle of the flower reading Institute for Innovation & Leadership

 

From foundational curricula to cutting-edge technology to global experiences, this premier program not only offers your daughter the chance to develop her talents in a variety of disciplines, but it also prepares her for life after she graduates from CSG. With exceptional foundational knowledge, advanced studies, and real-world experiences, she will be prepared to stand out in her work after CSG and succeed in the next steps toward her future. Each Center is designed to empower our students in each of the respective fields of study. From leading in the classroom to performing on the stage to competing in a robotics tournament and more, the Institute offers every girl a chance to discover her distinct potential as a learner and leader.

Three students work together to solve a math problem.

 

CENTER FOR MATHEMATICAL REASONING

Parent Education
Math Extension Experiences
Computer Science

Student speaks at podium

 

CENTER FOR GIRLS' & YOUNG WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP

Leadership Curriculum
May Program
Special Events

Two students work on a biology project together where they label a skeleton model.

 

Center for Science Research & Engineering

OSU Research Program
STEM Publications
Environmental Science

Three students look over a couple of books in the library.

 

Center for Equity & Belonging

DEIB Curriculum
Studies in Social Justice
Leadership & Changemaking

Three students smile as they learn in band class.

 

Center for Artistic & Creative Expression

Creative Design Thinking
Performance Experiences
Engineering Imaginative Mindsets

Student smiling in Mandarin Class

 

Center for Global Studies & Citizenship

Global Studies Curriculum
Exchange Programs
Global Travel Experiences

Meet the Center Directors

Columbus School for Girls recently announced the six individuals who will serve as Center Directors for the Institute for Innovation & Leadership. The Center Director application process was open to all faculty and staff and those selected for the Center Director positions exhibited the vision, passion and foresight necessary to bring the Institute for Innovation & Leadership to fruition this coming school year. 

Center for artistic & creative expression logo

Director of the Center for Artistic & Creative Expression
Annie Ruefle

As the Director of the Center for Artistic & Creative Expression, Annie looks forward to amplifying our robust art, music, and theater programs, as well as collaborating with faculty to explore ways for creative expression in various curricular areas to enhance student learning.

center for equity & belonging logo

Director of the Center for Equity & Belonging
Corey Baker

As the Director of the Center for Equity & Belonging, Corey looks forward to embedding DEIB elective experiences in each form across divisions and providing opportunities for speakers and programming that contribute to CSG's culture of belonging.

center for girls' & young women's leadership logo

Director of the Center for Girls & Young Women's Leadership
Megan Smeeding

As the Director of the Center for Girls’ & Young Women’s Leadership, Megan looks forward to expanding opportunities for students across all divisions to develop agency, resilience, and confidence as leaders.

Center for global studies & citizenship logo

Director of the Center for Global Studies & Citizenship
Dr. Betsy Esser 

As Director of the Center for Global Studies & Citizenship, Dr. Esser is excited to work with the community to build our global citizenship education for Pre-K through 12.

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Director of the Center for Mathematical Reasoning
Dr. Stephen Lewis

As Director of the Center for Mathematical Reasoning (CMR), Dr. Lewis collaborates with partners such as industry professionals, university faculty, and CSG alumnae to develop unique projects and programming.

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Director of the Center for Science Research & Engineering
Samantha Shultz-McGowan

As Director of the Center of Science Research & Engineering, Sam wants to support faculty by offering cross-curricular and cross-divisional science research and engineering opportunities.

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