Each summer, Chowan University opens its scenic campus not only to athletic camps but also to a growing variety of non-athletic programs that enrich, educate, and inspire. These camps bring hundreds of youth and families to Murfreesboro, showcasing the University’s commitment to service and community.

Lifeway Camps: Faith in Action

For the third consecutive year, Chowan has served as a host site for Lifeway Camps, nationwide faith-based programs organized by Lifeway Christian Resources in partnership with the International Mission Board (IMB) and the North American Mission Board (NAMB). These camps are designed to help young people deepen their faith and grow spiritually.

CentriKid offers children in grades 2–6 engaging Bible study, recreation, and hands-on learning. Student Life for Kids, for grades 3–6, helps children build a strong foundation in scripture. FUGE Camps, designed for students in grades 6–12, combine fun and fellowship with discipleship training.

“Chowan’s primary goal is to provide campers with the best possible experience,” says Brandon Zock, Associate Vice President for Campus Life. Chowan supports this spiritual journey by offering meals, housing, and worship spaces.

Campapalooza: Exploring Passions and Careers

Chowan’s signature academic summer camp, Campapalooza, offers high school students the opportunity to immerse themselves in university life while exploring future career interests. Sponsored by the University and led by Dr. Mitchell Henke and Dr. Ella Benson, Campapalooza engages faculty and staff in leading workshops across a variety of subjects.

For 2025, students will explore topics including entrepreneurship, arts and crafts, robotics and engineering, criminal justice, music, finances, design and creativity, movie making, a creative storytelling session titled “Supervillains,” and a college readiness program called Bridge to College.

Typically hosting over 250 students, Campapalooza offers a full residential experience from Sunday through Friday. Students live in campus housing, eat in the cafeteria, participate in hands-on workshops, and present their work in a gallery showcase at week’s end.

WMU/CWJC: Mission-Focused Life Skills Training

Chowan will again partner with the Women’s Missionary Union and Christian Women and Men’s Job Corps (WMU/CWJC) to host a transformative week of mission service and life skills development. Sponsored by the Ahoskie chapter, this camp assists single mothers and fathers with job training, education access, and essential life skills.

This program creates lasting impact. One alumna, formerly sponsored by WMU/CWJC, graduated from Chowan and now teaches third grade in Raleigh. Through child care, housing assistance, and mentoring, participants gain the tools to build brighter futures.

Liberty Live Church: A Spiritual Gathering of Thousands

In one of the largest youth gatherings on Chowan’s campus, Liberty Live Church will bring together 7,000–8,000 students from its multiple satellite locations for a dynamic week-long camp.

While the church leads programming, Chowan provides meals, lodging, and worship spaces. The experience is described as “a life-changing week focused on encountering Jesus in a real and personal way through engaging messages, team competitions, and meaningful moments.”

Reflecting on the impact, Zock shares, “Everywhere you go in Murfreesboro, and throughout North Carolina, there’s a connection being made from camp experiences. This summer alone, Chowan University will impact the lives of thousands of children and families.”

Limelight Theatre

Limelight Theatre and Chowan University are collaborating on a production of The Little Mermaid on campus this summer. Limelight Theatre in Ahoskie operates as a movie theatre on weekends, while Limelight Studios provides year-round performing arts classes for youth.

For alumni, these programs serve as a powerful reminder of Chowan’s enduring mission: to serve, uplift, and inspire through education, faith, and community.