Dixie State University students present at national, international conferences

Dixie State University students present at national, international conferences

As the 2016-17 academic year winds down, several Dixie State University students shared what they have been working on this year by presenting at national and international conferences. The Dixie State chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, an international English honor society, took part in the society’s international convention in Louisville, Kentucky. There, members from around the globe gathered to share academic expertise, receive recognition for their accomplishments, and learn new English and English-related concepts. Students Kayley Hopster, Ciera Beers, Stephenee Dial, Kassidy Waddell, Sam West, Sallie Sullivan and Lyndsey Craig represented Dixie State at the convention. “Each year, our chapter is invited to construct an ‘Outstanding Chapter Display’ to give inspiration for club activities and fundraising to fellow club presidents and student leaders attending the convention,” Hopster, the DSU Sigma Tau Delta club president, said. “This year, our display won third place. On top of this accomplishment, Sam West received an honorable mention in the popular culture category and $100 scholarship for her paper ‘Burning Desire: Female Sexuality in Music.’” Founded in 1924, Sigma Tau Delta has over 880 active chapters within the United States and abroad and inducts approximately 9,000 members annually. Dixie State’s English department also sent senior English major Bailee Christiansen to the National Conference on Undergraduate Research in Memphis, Tennessee. Christiansen presented “One Legendarium to Rule Them All: J.R.R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion,” which inspects the mythological ties between Tolkien's writings and existing myths from Europe. During its 31st annual conference, NCUR showcased the best in undergraduate research and creative and performing arts. The Council on Undergraduate Research provides research opportunities for students at all institutions serving undergraduate students and helps students succeed in their studies and prepare for professional advancement. “Outside of perhaps internships, there is no better growth experience for students than presenting at undergraduate research conferences and conventions,” Christiansen said. “It provides an opportunity to give a voice to all of the research you have done as a student and allows you the opportunity to grow not only professionally but academically.” Also this month, the Dixie State University Undergraduate Research Office hosted its first Regional Research Symposium, showcasing cutting-edge research, innovation and creative projects. Delivered in a variety of formats including talks, posters, performances and displays, research was presented by 41 Dixie State students, 9 faculty members and 10 community researchers. For more information on undergraduate research opportunities, visit academics.utahtech.edu/uro.