Welcome to the [2025] St. Mary’s University Annual Research Showcase, a two-day event spotlighting the academic excellence, creativity, and inquiry of our students and faculty.

This year’s showcase features a diverse range of poster presentations, oral sessions, live demonstrations, performances, and more. Whether you’re a participant, volunteer, faculty judge, or guest—there’s something here for everyone to engage with and celebrate.

The Annual Research Showcase is proud to feature a diverse range of presenters who contribute to the vibrant academic community at St. Mary’s University. Our presenters come from various backgrounds and disciplines, sharing their work through two main formats:

• Oral Presenters: These presenters deliver formal talks showcasing their research or creative projects. Oral presentations are given by a mix of professors and students. Faculty members often share findings from their year-long research projects or significant scholarly work, providing valuable insights and expertise. Students, including both undergraduate and graduate researchers, also present their original research, demonstrating the breadth and depth of inquiry happening on campus.

• Poster Presenters: Poster sessions primarily feature current students—undergraduate and graduate—who visually display their research or creative projects on posters. These sessions provide a dynamic, interactive forum for presenters to engage in detailed discussions, receive feedback, and connect with peers, faculty, and visitors.

How to Participate as a Presenter

Participation in the showcase is open to all eligible students and faculty across disciplines, but presenters must follow a structured process to ensure a smooth and professional event:

• Sign-Up: Interested presenters must complete an online application by the designated deadline. The application collects information about the research topic, preferred presentation format (oral or poster), and relevant faculty advisor details.
• Proposal Review: Applications are reviewed by the Office of Student Research and Inquiry in collaboration with faculty mentors and event organizers to ensure quality and diversity of content.
• Preparation Workshops: Selected presenters are encouraged to attend preparation workshops offered by OSRI. These sessions provide guidance on presentation skills, poster design, research communication, and ethical considerations.
• Final Submission: Presenters submit their final materials (presentation slides, posters, abstracts) ahead of the event for review and scheduling.
• Presentation Day: Presenters share their work during the showcase, engage with judges, attendees, and peers, and participate in networking opportunities.

The Annual Research Showcase is a dynamic event that thrives because of the dedication and enthusiasm of our incredible volunteers. From students to faculty and staff, volunteers are essential in creating a welcoming, organized, and enriching environment for all participants.

Volunteering at the showcase is more than just helping out—it’s an opportunity to be part of a vibrant community, develop professional skills, and support the academic achievements of your peers.

Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities

Moderators
Moderators play a vital role in facilitating the smooth flow of oral presentation sessions. They introduce presenters, manage time to keep discussions on schedule, facilitate audience Q&A, and ensure that every presenter has a supportive environment to share their work confidently.

Judges
Judges bring their expertise and critical eye to evaluate poster and oral presentations. Using clear criteria—including clarity, originality, research depth, and presentation skills—they provide constructive feedback and select outstanding projects to receive recognition and awards. Judging is an excellent way for volunteers to engage deeply with cutting-edge research and develop evaluative and communication skills.

Event Support Volunteers
These volunteers handle a wide variety of tasks essential to the event’s success, including:

• Setting up and breaking down the venue

• Managing registration desks and check-in

• Guiding attendees to sessions and locations

• Providing technical support for AV equipment and presentations

• Assisting presenters and guests with questions and needs

• Ensuring health and safety protocols are followed

Logistics and Coordination
Some volunteers support behind the scenes by helping with scheduling, coordinating between presenters and judges, distributing materials, and troubleshooting issues as they arise during the event.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering at the Research Showcase is a unique chance to:

• Connect with students and faculty from diverse disciplines

• Gain valuable experience in event management, communication, and teamwork

• Expand your professional network and build relationships within the academic community

• Contribute to an inspiring celebration of knowledge and discovery

Whether you’re interested in academic mentorship, event coordination, or simply want to support your peers, there’s a meaningful volunteer role for you.