SSU to host Annual Undergraduate Research Symposia on April 14th

SALISBURY, MD---Salisbury State University celebrates undergraduate research with a decade long tradition on Friday, April 14, when the Henson School of Science and Technology and the Fulton School of Liberal Arts host their annual Undergraduate Research Symposia.

SSU received both statewide and national recognition for its commitment to undergraduate research when it hosted the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in 1998.

"The University's commitment to students engaging in self- directed research (as opposed to faculty-directed) is a challenging educational approach. I believe it helps students become more intellectually probing, thoughtful and committed to sharing knowledge--qualities absolutely necessary in today's global culture--and is invigorating for faculty. It's what we're about," said Provost Don Cathcart, and one of the reasons cited in The Princeton Review for Salisbury's increasing academic stature on a national level.

At the Henson Symposium some 50 students will present their work in poster and oral presentations. The research varies from discussions on genetic diversity to robotics to explosives and includes such creations as a Maryland health atlas and 3-D models.

At the Fulton Symposium some 70 liberal arts students will present their best work in a variety of formats, including: dramatic presentations, senior art show exhibits, musical performances and concurrent student research panels. Research will vary from Walt Whitman's revolutionary effect on poetry to Hemingway's portrayal of women to subliminal seduction in graphic design.

These symposia will serve as a "warm up" for 12 SSU students, six from Fulton School and six from Henson School, who will be traveling to Montana to present at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research to be held April 27-29.

The Henson Symposium is from 3:30-6 p.m. in Devilbiss Hall and from 6 - 8 p.m. in the Wicomico Room of the Guerrieri University Center. The Fulton Symposium is from 1-5:15 p.m. in Fulton Hall. Both symposia are free and open to the public. Guests do not need to register and are welcome any time. Guides will direct guests to the appropriate areas. For more information call the SSU Public Relations Office at 410-543-6030.