The RISE Above Research Conference is a culminating event for both graduate and undergraduate research at Milligan College scheduled for April 23, 2020. Scholarly and creative research from a variety of fields is presented annually by students, and it will continue this year with an unprecedented twist.
Similarly to other collegiate events across the nation, the RISE Above Research Conference will be presented online this year via Zoom sessions. Two or three students will present their work remotely in each session, with a faculty member moderating.
Joy Drinnon, professor of psychology and director of undergraduate research at Milligan and with a doctorate in experimental psychology, appeared optimistic about the move to Zoom for the conference.
“I am hopeful that attendance will actually be higher as a result of this format,” Drinnon said. “Because there is no need to travel, more family members can join the conference to listen to the presentations. In addition, people who want to attend concurrent sessions can view them later at their convenience.”
When asked about possible downsides to hosting the conference online, Drinnon explained that there will not be the usual poster session. “While some students may be creating a poster to print and display later on campus, the students will have to give oral presentations about their research for this virtual conference,’ she said.
Junior Ryan Kelly, presenting on AI and the spread of COVID-19, said he was unaffected by the change, and the only real difference will be making a PowerPoint instead of the usual poster. “It doesn’t stress me out that it is online,” Kelly said.
Student turnout for the conference, it appears, remains unwavering despite the circumstances. “I’m pleased with the number of presentations we have scheduled given the sudden change of plans,” said Drinnon.
Junior Elizabeth Williams, presenting on J.R.R. Tolkien and Appalachian music at this year’s conference, echoed Drinnon’s thoughts about the online transition. “I’m excited to be able to share my research despite the circumstances.” Williams continued. “I know the faculty must have worked tirelessly to make this transition possible, and for that, I’m grateful.”
With registration and abstract due dates passing earlier this week, presenters are eagerly preparing their research for the conference. The RISE Above Research Conference is currently slated to proceed via Zoom sessions on April 23 for all interested in attending.
Headline photo: The RISE Above Research Conference. Photo from milligan.edu.