Students, faculty and area residents are invited to attend the 5th annual Academic Symposium at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP), on Thursday, April 30, with set up starting at 3:30 p.m.
This conference-like event will be located across campus, as students will provide oral presentations at 5 p.m. at Melton, Looney, Hass-Darr and Lybyer Halls, while the student posters will be on display from 4 – 5 p.m. at a location yet to be determined. A special presentation titled, “Around the World with our International Students,” will be at 5 p.m. at a location later to be determined.
“This year’s event promises to be the most exciting and enlightening event of the spring semester by showcasing the extraordinary talent and hard work of our students,” said Jessica Banning, one of the members of MSU-WP’s Public Affairs Committee which organizes the event. “We’re excited to provide a platform where our aspiring scholars can shine and share their passions with the community,” Banning added.
What to expect
“The symposium will highlight the academic accomplishments of students across all disciplines, from the sciences and humanities to health and business. Through presentations and poster showcases, students will present evidence-based research projects that reflect their creativity, curiosity and commitment to discovery,” added Joanna Patillo, also a committee member.
Those who attend can expect to enjoy:
- Student-led presentations on a variety of innovative topics.
- A vibrant poster showcase featuring original research and thought-provoking ideas.
- Opportunities to engage with students, faculty and experts from across the region.
- Free refreshments and open admission for all attendees.
“The symposium is more than just an academic event. It’s a community celebration of knowledge, exploration and the incredible stories behind student research,” said Banning. “Our vision is to grow this into the premier academic conference in the region where the public can interact with tomorrow’s leaders and today’s changemakers,” Patillo added.
A diverse showcase of talent
Students from a wide range of academic programs will take center stage. These include nursing, education abroad experiences, microbiology, education, computer graphics and programming, human biology and more.
“This is a unique opportunity for guests to explore the incredible work being done across multiple disciplines and see firsthand how our students are applying their knowledge to real-world challenges,” Banning said.
Patillo added, “Through their research and presentations, students are not only honing their critical thinking and professional skills but also preparing to become future leaders who will make a lasting impact on the community.”
Around the World with our International Students
Area residents will learn about international students, enrolled at MSU-WP, and their home countries during a special event titled, “Around the World with our International Students” at 5 p.m. in a location yet to be determined.
Free and open to all, this event is a part of the Academic Symposium, an annual event sponsored by the MSU-WP Public Affairs Committee.
This presentation features presentations from students attending MSU-WP who call Brazil, Bulgaria, Colombia, Dubai, France and St. Lucia home. They will be assisted by student mentors from Dr. Kathleen Morrison’s American Government political science class.
For more about this presentation, contact Dr. Morrison at KathleenMorrison@MissouriState.edu
“Whether you’re a student, faculty member, local resident or lifelong learner, we invite you to join us for this celebration of curiosity, discovery and innovation,” Patillo said. “Come, see what makes MSU-WP students stand out!”
Special thanks to our supporters
Banning noted the event would not be possible without “the dedicated efforts of our faculty, student volunteers and presenters. Thank you for your hard work and enthusiasm in bringing the symposium to life.”
They also extended their heart-felt appreciation to our generous sponsors, the Friends of the Garnett Library and the Student Government Association for their continued support and commitment to student success.
For more information about the event visit WP.MissouriState.edu/AcademicAffairs/Academic-Symposium or contact Patillo at JoannaPatillo@MissouriState.edu or Banning at JessicaBarton@MissouriState.edu.