As part of supporting the Sumner Recovery Plan, the Sumner StudioLab offers an internship program for Sumner High School students each semester. Launched in 2022 with funding from WashU’s Office of the Provost, the program will run for four school years and is coordinated by Crystal Payne along with Matthew Bernstine and Laura Perry.

Each year, a cohort of interns meets weekly to develop their skills in community building and storytelling as well as their understandings of local history. Interns also contribute to community listening sessions and public workshops as well as connect with Sumner alums, local community leaders, and local institutions and museums. Interns receive a stipend to support their participation and are nominated for the program by Sumner High School staff.

In 2024, Sumner Studiolab interns collaborated with local seltzer company Mighty Kind to design and launch a new Sumner Seltzer commemorative sparkling water. Sumner StudioLab interns created, tested, and selected the seltzer flavor (Pineapple Grape) and also provided feedback on the can’s label and message, designed by their fellow Sumner High School students. The seltzer is available for purchase online and portions of the proceeds will go to Sumner High School and community organization 4theVille.