WKU News

Undergraduate students at Western Kentucky University are now invited to submit abstracts for the 55th Annual Student Scholar Showcase, set for April 5, 2025. The event provides students with the opportunity to present their research, creative work, and academic projects to the WKU community. The submission portal is now open, and the deadline for abstracts is February 28, 2025.

Since 1970, the Student Scholar Showcase (formerly the Student Research Conference) has been a key event for students to highlight their academic achievements. In 2025, WKU will celebrate the 55th edition of this tradition, featuring a wide range of student projects across multiple presentation formats.

How to Participate

To participate, students must submit a 200-word abstract summarizing their research or creative activity. The abstract should include:

• Introduction: The project’s goal or research question
• Methods: How the research was conducted or creative activity approached
• Results: Key findings or outcomes
• Discussion: Significance and conclusions drawn

Each student can submit one abstract as the primary presenter but may include up to four co-presenters. Presentations can take the form of oral papers, poster exhibits, pre-recorded performances, or videos. Students must work with their faculty mentors to ensure their abstracts are approved before submission.

To submit an abstract, students should visit the official portal at wku.edu/showcase/abstract.

Faculty and Staff: Interested in Volunteering as a Showcase Session Chair?

The Student Scholar Showcase also offers opportunities for faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to get involved. Volunteers are needed to serve as session chairs, helping to facilitate presentations and ensuring the event runs smoothly. 

Those interested in volunteering can find more information at wku.edu/showcase/sessionchairinfo.

Key Dates:

• Abstract Submission Deadline: February 28, 2025
• Notification of Acceptance: Mid-March 2025
• Event Date: April 5, 2025, from 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM at the Downing Student Union

Why Participate?

The Student Scholar Showcase is a great way for students to gain experience in presenting, boost their academic profiles, and connect with faculty and peers. Whether presenting research, a creative project, or a performance, this event highlights the diverse and innovative work of WKU students.