Summer Explorers
Develop your social media marketing skills while promoting the many things there are to do, see, and explore in Indiana!
About the Program
This 10-week program aims to empower Current and Alumni Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to become Hoosier state champions, promoting Indiana’s destinations, hidden gems and unique experiences to a wider audience.
Who is Eligible?
Lilly Endowment Community Scholars (current or alumni) with a social media presence (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn preferred) who are interested in travel, exploration, and Indiana.
Why Participate?
- Explore unique destinations across Indiana
- Receive a 2026 Indiana State Park Pass ($50 value)
- Receive a $200 stipend to aid in exploration costs
- Develop content creation skills (photography, videography, storytelling, social media, etc.)
- Further civic pride for state of Indiana
- Promote Indiana destinations to a larger audience
Expectations & Commitment
Prize Packages
Program Outline:
This is a 10-week program, beginning in June and concluding in September. Up to 15 Scholars will be selected to participate in the program.
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Selection Process: After submitting your application,
- Applications will be scored according to this rubric. Applicants will be notified of status the week of June 15.
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LSN will conduct a Social media profile review. Social media reach, content creativity, and enthusiasm for exploring Indiana will also be taken into account.
- Introduction: Virtual program led by LSN staff on June 22 from 7:00 – 8:00 PM (EDT)
- Introduction to social media marketing best practices
- Workshop on creating compelling content (photography, videography, storytelling)
- Overview of Indiana’s destination offerings
- Social Posts:
- Scholars explore Indiana destinations of their choosing. Explorers are welcome to document LSN events!
- Participate in activities and experiences at each location
- Create engaging video social media content highlighting each destination.
- Post eight videos for prize package eligibility. Each post must include @lillyscholarsnetwork and at least one of the program hashtags (#LSNExplorers, #SummerExplorers, #ExploreIndiana, #ExploreIN) to be eligible for prize consideration. Further direction will be communicated at the virtual training.
- Evaluation & Future Prospects:
- Each post’s success will be measured by Explorer engagement, quality of content, creativity, and information shared about the destination.
- Each participant will be required to complete a survey to help provide feedback on the program and help improve the program for the future.
The top three participants will receive award stipends:
- First place $1,000
- Second place $750
- Third place $500.
Summer Explorers are encouraged to attend the LSN at the Indiana State Fair event, where each Explorer will be recognized. Explorers will receive an invitation with advanced registration for this event in the coming weeks. Prize winners will be announced at the 2026 INfuse Summit.
2026 Summer Explorer Program Dates
June 1-14 – Applications Open
June 15-18 – Explorers Selected
June 22 – Virtual Training
July 1 – September 8 – Program Posting
September 20 – Prize Winners Announced
The Impact of Scholar Link
Learn more about Scholar Link mentor pairs and their stories.
Reach out to learn more!
Schedule a 1-on-1 chat with Emily Morales, LSN Collegiate Relations and Events Associate with additional questions or email her at emily@lillyscholarsnetwork.org.
