Students will convene to showcase undergraduate and innovative projects from all five colleges at Eastern Michigan University's 44th annual Undergraduate Symposium presented by GameAbove, an alumni-led philanthropic group. The public event occurs from 9 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Friday, March 22, at the EMU Student Center, 900 Oakwood St.

This year’s Symposium features over 200 presentations from 220 students, including poster sessions, oral presentations, and a design-based gallery show. The Symposium allows EMU students, with the support of faculty mentors, to share their research, academic projects, and creative work with the community.

“From my perspective as both a faculty mentor and as a member of the EMU community, I truly believe that this is the best day of the year at EMU,” said Harriet Lindsay, Symposium event chair and department head and professor of chemistry. “Like graduation, the Undergraduate Symposium is a milestone for student presenters as they present the fruits of months of effort.”

Serving as this year’s Dennis M. Beagen Keynote Speaker is EMU alumnus Dara Walker, assistant professor of African American studies, history, and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies at Pennsylvania State University. Walker has authored numerous research studies in her field and is currently undergoing the publication of her first book, “High School Rebels: Black Power, Education, and Youth Politics in the Motor City, 1966-1973.” The keynote address will be delivered during the private event luncheon from noon to 1:15 p.m. and hosted only for student presenters, faculty mentors, and guests.

This year promises to be a great event with the addition of GameAbove as a named sponsor. As an added student experience, attendees will have a chance to engage in a raffle giveaway, with the opportunity to win a Symposium merchandise basket.

“This event exemplifies the spirit of innovation and academic excellence,” said Chao Sun, president of GameAbove engagements at EMU. “We are thrilled to see the diverse array of talents and dedication our students bring to their fields of study. We are honored to support and celebrate their accomplishments.”

The Symposium was one of the first in the nation, beginning in 1981. The first annual event, held on April 3, 1981, featured 17 students and 19 faculty members from nine College of Arts and Sciences departments. Since its inception, the Symposium has hosted over 9,000 undergraduates.

For more information about the 44th annual Undergraduate Symposium, including parking suggestions and a schedule, visit the webpage.