About Sheldon Institute
Sheldon Institute has honored the legacy of college founder Edward Austin Sheldon for nearly four decades , who was recognized around the world as a visionary in teacher education. Originally conceived as a program for gifted and talented students nominated by their 4th through 6th grade teachers, the Sheldon Institute initially offered classes in art, biology, creative communications, electronics, industrial arts, math, and music. At its founding in 1978, students participated in two subjects per two-week session.
In the early 1980s, the format changed to an all-day, two-week program, expanding to reach youths in 2nd through 10th grades from varying backgrounds. In 2015, the Tarandi Foundation — established by the late Oswego physicians Ravindra and Manjula Shah — expanded opportunities for children from low-income families with a $50,000 gift to establish the Sheldon Institute Endowed Fund.
In summer 2018, the Richard S. Shineman Foundation provided a $1 million gift to enhance the Institute and rename it Sheldon Institute for Barbara Shineman Scholars. The Shineman Foundation's gift — given in honor of Barbara's 90th birthday and the Institute's 40th year — enabled the Institute to enhance learning experiences, grow its reach and increase access through need-based scholarships.
Today, Sheldon Institute for Barbara Shineman Scholars focuses on academic and cultural courses for curious and creative students. Students 7 to 15 years old are instructed by college professors, public school teachers, and experienced practitioners or subject-matter experts. Hands-on courses in art, music, culture, science, technology, sports, and wellness engage the minds of students in fun and interactive ways. Experiences at the Institute also familiarize children with the SUNY Oswego campus and plant the seeds of thought for a future college education.
