MINNEAPOLIS, June 6, 2012 – Best Buy’s Geek Squad today announced the 6th Annual Geek Squad Summer Academy(TM) program, an unparalleled community-supported tech immersion experience that provides young people the tech know-how to spark creativity and innovation. Introduced in 2007, this technology boot camp has grown from a one-day, one-city 300-student camp to a nationwide program that will reach nearly 10,000 students in more than 20 states this summer. The Geek Squad Summer Academy program, a contributor to the White House Joining Forces initiative, also will support tech education for military family members by hosting five customized camps on select military bases across the U.S.
“The special expertise of our Geek Squad Agents makes them uniquely qualified to help kids learn and love technology,” said George Sherman, senior vice president of Best Buy Services. “We look forward to another successful year of Geek Squad Summer Academy and are excited to help foster our Junior Agents’ desire to use technology as a tool to help achieve the dream of becoming whatever you want to be.”
Providing young people access to technology and inspiring their creativity are key priorities for Best Buy, and the Geek Squad Summer Academy program is vital to achieving this goal. Each year, Geek Squad Agents volunteer their time to work alongside young people as they explore the ins and outs of their favorite gadgets. Geek Squad partners with non-profit organizations – such as The Girl Scouts of America and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, among others – to demystify technology for young people and ignite their passion with a curriculum that focuses on fun and inspiration. Responding to greater demand from communities wanting to host sessions, this year the Geek Squad Summer Academy program will visit more locations than ever before and provide the most comprehensive curriculum to date.
“Geek Squad Summer Academy is a truly one-of-a-kind experience for young people,” said Moira Hardek, founder and senior manager of Geek Squad Summer Academy. “Not only do we bring know-how to kids in their own communities, but we try to nurture them to be more creative and inspire them to innovate. Delivering this hands-on experience is what makes the program memorable for the kids and so very rewarding for those of us with Geek Squad who are fortunate to participate.”
Geek Squad Summer Academy’s 2012 season will kick-off on June 10 in Bladensburg, Md. and subsequently visit 40 cities from coast to coast, ending in late August. The five unique armed forces-focused Geek Squad Summer Academy program sessions will be held on military bases, including Fort Meade in Maryland.
For a complete schedule of Geek Squad Summer Academy 2012 dates, locations, enrollment information and more, visit http://geeksquadacademy.com/summeracademy/.
About Geek Squad:
If your deepest desire is make the most of your technology so you can get more from your life, Geek Squad is there for you: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. For help with all your technology needs, call 1.800.GEEK SQUAD to set up an onsite consultation. Access Geek Squad Agents remotely or find a location near you at http://www.geeksquad.com/, or visit the Geek Squad Precinct at any Best Buy to speak with an Agent directly.
About Best Buy Co., Inc.
Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE: BBY) is a leading multi-channel global retailer and developer of technology products and services. Every day our employees are committed to helping deliver the technology solutions that enable easy access to people, knowledge, ideas and fun. We are keenly aware of our role and impact on the world, and we are committed to developing and implementing business strategies that bring sustainable technology solutions to our consumers and communities. For information about Best Buy, visit http://www.bby.com/ and to shop at Best Buy, visit http://www.bestbuy.com/.
Media Contact:
Paula Baldwin
612-291-6126
paula.baldwin@bestbuy.com