Summer Explorers — Chocolate University

Intensive summer program with project-based curriculum offered in partnership with Springfield Public Schools.

In partnership with Springfield Public Schools Summer Explore programming. The Askinosie Chocolate University Summer Explorers find inspiration through the lens of artisan chocolate making to become global citizens and to embrace the idea that businesses can solve world problems. Throughout the four-week project-based learning experience, students reboot the Askinosie Factory Tour, make delicious chocolate treats, ideate a new product concept and supporting marketing plan, simulate the lives of cocoa farmers, learn and apply Askinosie Chocolate’s A Product of Change business model, and create personal visions for their futures. Classroom time is interspersed with visits to our small batch chocolate factory.

Comments from prior Chocolate University Summer Explore students:

I think that the cocoa simulation was very helpful to me as a person because it helped me learn how a farmer feels when they are paid for their cocoa beans. Being put into their shoes helped me to see the view of someone from a different place in the world. The Packaging Project also gave me a tiny glimpse into how difficult it is to start a business.”

I loved when we got to connect with the cocoa farmers. We had the chance to send them questions and the responses were so personal that it felt like they were in the room with us, just chatting! I really enjoyed learning about how a small company like Askinosie can connect with others around the world and help change their lives.”

My time in CU was AMAZING! It was so fun because I was wanting to take a class that was something new and different and this was the class! I truly enjoyed it and learning about direct trade and the chocolate making process!”

I had an amazing summer learning about cocoa farms, the process of making chocolate, a little bit about creating a product and about Askinosie Chocolate. Our field trips were really important to help us see the business up close and going to the fruit orchard was helpful to give us an idea of how farms can be run.”

This summer was really fun. I always enjoyed coming to EXPLORE because I knew I was going to Chocolate University class and that made it the best summer ever!”