Samantha Pedek and Robert Zill work in the optics lab of the physics department, studying the light emission profiles of colored LEDs in an IceCube module. Pedek and Zill will present their research at the upcoming Fall Gala.

Undergraduate Research, Scholarly and Creative Activities Showcased at UW-River Falls

November 24, 2015 -- The public is invited to the Fall Gala, an annual showcase event to celebrate the research, scholarly and creative activities of more than 200 University of Wisconsin-River Falls undergraduates on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 5-7:30 p.m. in the Riverview Ballroom of the University Center.

Across campus, UW-River Falls undergraduates have been involved in innovative research in subjects ranging from cattle health to nicotine addiction. Students present their work annually on campus at the Fall Gala through posters, short films, art exhibits, PowerPoints, and interactive displays in a lively and content-rich environment. Also available for sampling at the Fall Gala will be student-made cheeses and sausage from the Falcon Foods program.

In addition to the Fall Gala, throughout the year, UW-River Falls supports development of student research skills, including training on research ethics, presentation skills and designing research posters.  They also encourage undergraduates to present their work in other venues, and UWRF students typically constitute one of the largest traveling delegations to the annual National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR). In spring 2015, 82 students travelled to the 29th NCUR, held at Eastern Washington University in Cheney, Wash.

"UW-River Falls has long been recognized for the exceptional strength of its undergraduate research programming and opportunities, and our large contingent of presenters at NCUR 2015 shows our ongoing commitment to excellence in this area," said Lissa Schneider-Rebozo, professor of English and URSCA director.

The Fall Gala is a clear demonstration of the university's commitment to fostering hands-on learning and creative inquiry as early as a student's freshman year of college. Stop in at any time during the Gala to see what UW-River Falls students and their dedicated mentors are working on. The event is free and open to all.

For more information, call the URSCA Office at 715-425-3902 or visit the UWRF Fall Gala Web page.