More than 80 researchers across campuses recently responded to a call for proposals to participate in the first University of Toledo Research Symposium titled “Impacting Our Region Through Community-Engaged Research,” hosted by the Office of the Provost.
The inaugural event will be held Wednesday, April 17, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the Nitschke Technology Commercialization Complex and include a special panel discussion from 5 to 6 p.m. in Nitschke Auditorium.
“Our goal was to receive 25 or 30 proposals for this first symposium, which is being held to help advance part of our strategic plan,” said Dr. Amy Thompson, vice provost for faculty affairs and co-chair for the UToledo Research Symposium. “I think this strong response — nearly triple what we anticipated — certainly demonstrates that our faculty, clinicians and other staff are highly engaged in their research, scholarship and creative activities.
“It also shows their willingness to connect with students in order to ignite their interest in conducting research,” Thompson added. “Additionally, participation helps the University showcase the incredible depth and sheer volume of the work we’re doing that is significantly impacting not only northwest Ohio, but — in many cases — millions of lives around the world.”
Each person who submitted a proposal will be notified by Friday, March 1, whether his or her proposal has been accepted for the April 17 symposium. Participants had the choice of a poster presentation or booth, with easel stands and tables to be provided.
All faculty, staff and students are encouraged to attend this first UToledo Research Symposium, with a formal agenda of panelists and a complete list of all participants to be announced in mid-March.
“At this time, we would like our University community to save the date of April 17, and ask our faculty across all disciplines to encourage students to attend anytime between 3 and 6 p.m. that day,” Thompson said. “Research and other related activities foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills that can be applied in all disciplines, regardless of students’ future career paths.”
Community members and organizations throughout the region that have partnered in the presentations to be featured at the symposium also will be invited to attend.
Additional details, including frequently asked questions for those who will be presenting, are available on the UToledo Research Symposium website.
