Student Leadership

Student leadership anchors each symposium, and in many cases, that leadership is acknowledged with academic credit.

With support and mentorship from faculty and staff, student leaders research and develop the symposium themes, invite and host speakers, create panels and workshops, curate art exhibits, develop publicity, manage budgets, and coordinate event logistics. In addition, students also present their own work, often alongside community leaders, distinguished scholars, and professional writers and artists. All symposia offer rich opportunities for meaningful collaboration, multifaceted research, and the use and development of sophisticated communication skills.

  • Cochairing the MENA Symposium has allowed me to highlight my interest in the region and share that with the L&C community. This year’s theme of Art and Social Change focuses on something I care about.

    Jade Weihz BA ’23
    International Affairs | Middle East and North African Studies | Phillipsburg, New Jersey
    More about Jade
  • I am currently the cochair of the Gender Studies Symposium. Chairing the symposium while simultaneously writing my thesis on reproductive health has empowered me to look beyond the classroom and explore my interests further.

    Julia Salomone BA ’23
    Environmental Studies | Gender Studies | Parkland, Florida
    More about Julia
  • As a cochair for the fall 2023 ENVX Symposium, it has been an amazing opportunity to connect with different global, national, and local scholars, entrepreneurs, and leaders. I feel that I have grown so much through this experience.

    Grace Blunck BA ’24
    Environmental Studies | Political Science | Milwaukee, Wisconsin
    More about Grace