Bold Frontiers: The Intersection of Creativity and Innovation is the theme of the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s 22nd annual University Day, taking place on Wednesday, April 16.
Students will follow that theme in presentations on everything from exploring how movement is expressed in video games using code to the impact of social isolation on older adults.
University Day heightens awareness of the academic research, scholarly work and community service being done by students in all campus disciplines. The event allows attendees, especially students, to better understand how disciplines interrelate and how the academic work being done applies to the local and global community. It is also an opportunity for students to experience a professional conference format, many for the first time.
No regular classes are held during University Day. Students are encouraged to attend the day’s various sessions.
The day officially kicks off Tuesday, April 15, in the Campus Center, with a poster session from 5:30-6:45 p.m., followed by a Libra Distinguished Lecture Series presentation by co-founder of MedRhythms and leader in neurotherapeutics Owen McCarthy at 7 p.m.
The poster session will feature research done by students in a wide range of areas, from environmental science and biology to engineering, agriculture, computer programming, and extended learning opportunities. Students will be present to discuss their posters and answer questions. Beverages and light refreshments will be served.
McCarthy will deliver the University Day keynote address. During his talk, Harnessing Technology, Music, and Neuroscience to Transform Healthcare: The MedRhythms Story, McCarthy will discuss how MedRhythms blends neuroscience, music and digital technology to improve mobility for people living with neurological conditions, such as stroke, and how interdisciplinary thinking can lead to impactful healthcare solutions.
The next day, UMPI students will present talks, demonstrations and presentations in Pullen-Folsom Hall. Topics will includeDNA analysis, building enthusiasm for science education in school children, documentary film studies, analysis of heavy metals and PFAS in local soil samples, the evolution of The University Times, examining the purported link between autism and vaccines, studying abroad, and crafting for a cause.
During lunch, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Wieden Gym, the campus will celebrate its recurring Wings Wednesday celebration with a “Firesauce Chats” event, and student clubs and organizations will have displays set up in the room to showcase each group and its efforts.
The public is welcome to attend the Tuesday evening activities and the entire daylong event Wednesday. The University Day committee has invited students from the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, and community members are welcome to attend all sessions and the free lunch.
As in past years, online proceedings will feature in-depth abstracts for each presentation. The proceedings, scheduled to be published a few days before the event, will be able to be viewed at www.umpi.edu/uday/proceedings.
A full schedule of University Day activities can be found at www.umpi.edu/uday. For information, contact Stacey Emery at 207-768-9603 or email stacey.emery@maine.edu.
