Expanding Horizons

A Theological Institute

for High School Youth

June 23rd through June 28th, 2024

EXPANDING HORIZONS at Maryville College is an annual, week-long summer retreat program for students that have completed 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grade who display a promise for leadership and an eagerness to explore theology in a college setting. For more information about the program and to apply, please continue reading below. If you have questions, please consider downloading our information packet!  

EH Poster - Theology of Appalachia

The theme for EXPANDING HORIZONS 2024 is Theology of Appalachia: Faith Forged in the Mountains. This year’s Expanding Horizons program at Maryville College is exploring the way faith, community, and belonging are part of the history and development of Appalachia.

Of and For the Region

Maryville College is deeply rooted in the history of Maryville and the mountains of this area.  We will explore the way faith communities were involved in the development of our region as we study the Smokies and the history of our college. We will visit significant spots in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, meet local church congregations, and reflect on our own ways of belonging in a community as we join together in Bible study and discussions with MC students, staff, and faculty.

Over the course of the week, students strengthen their leadership skills through activities such as low ropes courses and Mountain Challenge‘s Alpine Tower, while also partaking in small group discussions about faith, leadership, and vocation with current Maryville College students, who serve as mentors. Students also study religion and theology with college faculty each morning, allowing them a unique opportunity to engage with their faith in a different context; no questions are off-limits in the classroom! In the evenings, students will work with staff and mentors in leading an ecumenical worship service for the group to feed the spirit and reflect on their journeys that week. In every moment, students are living in community on Maryville College’s campus or exploring the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains!

Cost: 

The cost of EXPANDING HORIZONS is $550, which covers on-campus housing, all meals, tuition, and supplies for the entire week. A $100 deposit is required after a student is accepted to the program and finishes their registration. The remaining balance is due no later than June 15th. Maryville College sponsors a limited number of competitive scholarships to Expanding Horizons available to students who apply.

Get More Information >

Applications for our 2024 program are now being accepted!

Faculty & Staff
MAST Program Director
Rev. Jessica Lewis
MAST Program Director
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Think you can't afford us?

Participants who later enroll as students at Maryville College are automatically eligible to receive the EXPANDING HORIZONS Scholarship, worth $500 in aid annually.  If you are interested in learning more about attending Maryville College as a student, be sure to check out our Admissions website to schedule an on-campus visit or begin your application!


Contact Us:

expanding.horizons@maryvillecollege.edu