LSU Discover will host its fourth annual Discover Day on April 4, showcasing research conducted by students along with creative works. However, there is one big change for 2017’s event — students from other Louisiana universities will be allowed to participate.
The event was first hosted in 2014, a year after the LSU Discover department was founded. The program was created to encourage students to use the resources and utilities available to them to conduct research on campus. Unlike past years, when only University students were showcased, the 2017 event will feature nearly 200 students from other schools, including the University of Louisiana at Monroe, Baton Rouge Community College and the University of New Orleans.
Another new addition is the use of the Student Union Art Gallery, which will feature art showcased on Discover Day throughout the entire month of April. Visitors will be able to vote on their favorite works and presentations. Ninety-five faculty, staff and doctoral students will serve as official judges for the event.
Discover Day was intended not only to showcase students’ achievements, but to demonstrate to other students what they can achieve through research. LSU Discover program manager Sarah Ferstel said the event is a great place for students wondering about ways to learn more on campus.
“Students might not know that this event is an excellent opportunity to learn more about undergraduate research opportunities on campus,” Ferstel said. “Students are encouraged to visit to the event and talk to the presenters and ask them questions about their research experiences.”
Each year the department names up to 10 Discover Scholars and awards them a $1,000 travel stipend along with a plaque at a special recognition ceremony during Discover Day. These students are nominated by a faculty member to be evaluated by the LSU Discover Advisory Board, which selects the scholars.
After the presentations, the event will wrap up with a reception and speech from keynote speaker Ginesse Listi, the director of the LSU Forensic Anthropology and Computer Enhancement Services Laboratory. Listi is also an assistant professor in the Department of Geography and Anthropology.
Discover Day will be held April 4 from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Student Union and is free and open to students and the public.