DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – Budding scientists from across the Wiregrass are spending the week exploring the mysteries of DNA during HudsonAlpha Wiregrass’ Code of Life summer program, hosted at Dothan High School.
The program engages students in grades six through nine in hands-on genetics education. This week, 22 campers have extracted DNA from various organisms and learned how genetic information determines physical traits. They’re also diving into topics like genetic mutations and disorders.
“There is nothing better than getting to see campers experience what we often call lightbulb moments, where a complicated topic suddenly makes sense or a future career possibility is discovered,” said Kelly East, Vice President of Educational Outreach with HudsonAlpha Wiregrass.
Campers are practicing lab techniques such as micropipetting and centrifuging. The program wraps up with a glowing experiment—engineering bacteria that glow in the dark.
Six of the participants attend Dothan City Schools, while the others come from different districts throughout the region.
“By hosting the HudsonAlpha Wiregrass camp at DHS, the district continues its commitment to providing students with opportunities to explore the STEM fields,” said Lee Jacobs, Acting Superintendent of Dothan City Schools. “Through programs like Code of Life, we aim to foster a passion for science and innovation in our students, empowering them to shape the future.”
HudsonAlpha Wiregrass was launched in partnership with the City of Dothan in 2022 and will be part of the planned Wiregrass Innovation Center in downtown Dothan.
