Hudson College of Public Health Launches Recharge-OK Student Innovation Challenge for Shawnee High School

The Hudson College of Public Health is helping spark the next generation of problem-solvers through its role in the Recharge-OK project—an innovative initiative led by faculty members Dr. Hongwan Li, Dr. Changjie Cai, and Dr. Dan Li- that brings together educators, industry leaders, and communities to explore clean energy solutions while inspiring students to imagine healthier, more resilient futures.

The project will officially launch its next phase with a kickoff event on March 25 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Shawnee High School Performing Arts Center. The event will introduce local students to the goals of Recharge-OK and highlight opportunities for them to actively participate in shaping the future of energy and community resilience. Opening remarks will include leaders from the Hudson College, along with representatives from the National Science Foundation, which is supporting the initiative and will deliver virtual keynote remarks.

Central to the project is the launch of the Recharge-OK Student Innovation Challenge, a hands-on learning experience designed for Shawnee High School students. Through the challenge, students will form teams and work alongside engineers, professors, regional planners, and other mentors to develop creative ideas related to vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, clean energy solutions, disaster preparedness, and community resilience. The first cohort will take place April 13–24, giving students the opportunity to explore real-world problems while strengthening their STEM skills and presenting solutions that could benefit their own communities.

The challenge will also include student-led STEM campaigns and competitive awards ranging from $200 to $800, encouraging participants to think boldly and communicate their ideas effectively. By engaging students in innovation at an early stage, the program reflects the Hudson College’s mission of promoting healthier tomorrows through education and research today—equipping young leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to build healthier, more sustainable communities.

Recharge-OK’s collaborative model also brings together civic and industry partners, including OG&E, Association of Central Oklahoma Governments, Indian Nations Council of Governments, and the City of Oklahoma City. These partnerships connect students with professionals across sectors, demonstrating how research, policy, and infrastructure planning can work together to strengthen community preparedness and energy resilience.

Beyond the innovation challenge, the project will continue engaging the public through a series of community workshops, focus groups, and outreach activities designed to build awareness and gather input from residents across the region. These efforts ensure that local voices help shape solutions while also expanding opportunities for students and communities to learn about emerging clean energy technologies.

By combining student innovation, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Recharge-OK exemplifies how the Hudson College of Public Health advances its mission—using education, research, and partnerships today to create healthier and more resilient tomorrows.

To learn more about Recharge-OK, visit recharge.org.