Mercyhurst showcases student success at annual symposium event

Mercyhurst University highlighted student research and achievement at its Illumination Annual Student Scholarship Symposium on Thursday, April 23.

A faculty committee led by Dr. Nathan Hess, Dr. Raj Mohan, Professor Katie Kilmer, and Dr. Sarah Care organized this event, which featured student projects from departments across the university.

Disciplines represented included Sports Medicine, Athletic Training, Intelligence Studies, Political Science, Computing and Information Science, Religious Studies and Philosophy, and Business.

By presenting their research publicly and communicating its significance to broad audiences, students gained valuable experience that supports career and graduate school preparation.

The symposium offers a vivid illustration of the real-world impact of a Mercyhurst education. Student projects addressed a wide range of relevant issues, including global geopolitical developments, advancing technologies, and health care challenges.

Student participants described the experience as both rewarding and inspiring.

"I think the Illumination Symposium is wonderful for Mercyhurst’s community,” said Reid Brown, an Applied Intelligence master’s student who presented a project developed through the Center for Intelligence, Research, Analysis, and Training (CIRAT). “It gives the students, especially freshmen, the chance to see what this campus has to offer beyond the core curriculum, while also allowing passionate students involved in clubs and extracurriculars to showcase their skills and interests!"

Faculty advisors also emphasized the value of events like this one.

“This event provides insight to students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to engage with projects in other fields, like those in CIRAT,” said Brian Fuller, executive director of CIRAT. “Open to all students, it brings together a wide range of projects and services in one place.”

Events like the Illumination Symposium reflect Mercyhurst’s mission to educate and inspire diverse learners in a meaningful, flourishing environment. The symposium is one of several year-end events that highlight outstanding student research and creative work.

Faculty encourage participation from all disciplines, with the call for submissions distributed each January. As the symposium continues to grow, it highlights student achievement while reinforcing Mercyhurst’s commitment to experiential learning and real-world impact.

For more information about this event and how to get involved, reach out to Dr. Sarah Carey at scarey@mercyhurst.edu.