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WSSU Scholarship Week 2025 to showcase student and faculty research

Winston-Salem State University’s Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) will host its annual Scholarship Week from March 31 to April 4, 2025, celebrating academic excellence and innovative research under the theme, “Owning OUR ‘A’ Game: A Showcase of Visionaries.”

Scholarship Week, WSSU’s largest academic event of the year, provides a platform for students and faculty to present research and creative works across various disciplines, including science, writing, visual arts and healthcare management. The weeklong event will feature interactive workshops, student panels, pop-up exhibits and department showcases.

Dr. Tangela Towns, director of the Office of Undergraduate Research says, “Scholarship Week provides all students with an opportunity to engage and participate—whether they have no prior interest in research or are already publishing their findings in academic journals.

While Scholarship Week primarily showcases students' research accomplishments, we also aim to inspire those who may not yet be engaged in research by highlighting how research is a part of everyday life.

At OUR, we embrace innovative thinking. This year, for example, we are collaborating with a student organization focused on hip-pop music. On March 31 we will co-host a Rap and Beat Battle, exploring the intersection of music and research. Research is exciting—it’s all about connecting it to your passions!”

Kickoff Event: Music and Research Beat Battle
The week’s opening event, the Music and Research Beat Battle, will take place on Monday, March 31, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in DJR 100. Hosted by The Watchers Soundwave, a WSSU student organization, the event will feature a three-round rap and music battle, with guest judges 9th Wonder and Reuben Vincent providing feedback on production and entrepreneurship.

Annual Scholarship Day Poster Celebration
The Annual Scholarship Day Poster Celebration is set for Thursday, April 3, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the DJR Gymnasium. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend this event, where students will showcase research findings and creative works.

Faculty CUREs Mini Conference
Faculty interested in research-based learning can attend the Faculty CUREs Mini Conference, which will take place on:

  • Wednesday, April 2, from noon to 5 p.m.
  • Thursday, April 3, from noon to 3 p.m.

The conference will explore methods for integrating undergraduate research into course curricula. Please register now to attend.

Departmental Showcases
Various departments will highlight research and creative works throughout the week, including:
  • Healthcare Management Showcase – Tuesday, April 1, from 11 a.m. to noon, 207 Thompson Center. Students will present research on health services and outcomes.
  • Excellence in Writing Award Ceremony – Tuesday, April 1, at 11 a.m. Recognizing outstanding student research papers with cash prizes. Location TBD.
  • Senior Arts Expo Finale – Friday, April 4, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Delta Arts Center (2611 New Walkertown Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27101). Senior students will showcase their artistic achievements.

With events scheduled daily, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend and support the academic excellence of their fellow Rams.

For more information or to participate, contact the Office of Undergraduate Research or Dr. Tangela Towns in Hill Hall 227 at townsta@wssu.edu.

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