In its fourth year, the Academy strives to provide a distinctive experience to as many kids as possible.  “Students are honing core skills, while expressing their individuality in a next-generation medium,” said Dr. Peter Raad, executive director and founder of The Guildhall at SMU.

“The generosity of our sponsors makes this venture possible.  Microsoft XNA continues to be a vital supporter, and we’re honored that the Texas Governor’s office is participating this year with a $10,000 sponsorship.” 

According to Raad, without the tuition assistance provided by sponsors, nearly twenty-five percent of the camp’s students would have been unable to attend. 

“Texas is committed to ensuring that students have the opportunity to excel in the increasingly competitive global economy through an education in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields,” said Leah Smith, animation and video game liaison for the Texas Film Commission, Office of the Governor.  “We are proud to sponsor The Guildhall Academy’s video game development camp for middle and high school students, which gives students of all backgrounds the invaluable opportunity to learn about the STEM fields in a hands-on environment.”

This year, diversity is present in many forms.  Kids come from not only the DFW area, but also from Harlingen, TX, and even from as far away as Taipei, Taiwan.  A Killeen, TX, student hails from a multi-generational military background; one child’s caregiver is a prison minister and one teen is caregiver to his sick mother.  A proclivity for video games began at two years of age for one student, another took up drawing when he was 5 years old and a decade later is on the road to becoming an artist.

The Academy offers two camps each summer.  At the conclusion of the two-week development cycle, students showcase their games to parents and guests. They leave with a glimpse into potential future careers, a sense of achievement and a true product of their imagination.