"These students are outstanding," said Howard Gordon, executive assistant to college President Deborah F. Stanley. "This environmental competition gives us wonderful insight into how young people are going to lead us into the future."

Gordon noted the finals have grown annually: Olympiad organizers expect an estimated 850 students and mentors -- a 28 percent increase over last year -- from more than 60 countries and over 30 states.

The general public can view the opening ceremony and exhibits in science, design, business, writing, and the visual and performing arts from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 13, in SUNY Oswego's Marano Campus Center arena and convocation hall.

The colorful International Fair from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, in the arena and convocation hall will highlight the culture of many competitors.

On Thursday, June 16, the GENIUS Olympiad will host a college fair from 9 to 11 a.m. along Marano Campus Center concourse for any interested students and parents. The closing award ceremony will take place at 1:15 p.m. that day.

Free parking is available in any campus lot for GENIUS Olympiad, though drivers need to observe handicap and other signage.

Encouraging and sharing the young students' research and creativity is important, Gordon said, and "is part of what we are about as an institution of higher education."

For more information, visit geniusolympiad.org.