STUDENT ACADEMIC CONFERENCE
Syracuse, NY
October 17, 2009
Pre-conference Workshops, October 16, 2009

The conference provides an excellent forum to present student work and sharpen public speaking skills ... Students will have the opportunity to network, share ideas and develop "school spirit." -Sharon Cyrus-Savory, 2007 Conference Presenter

Mission Statement

The Student Academic Conference brings together students from all geographic and academic areas of the college to share and learn from each other. The Student Academic Conference seeks to provide an arena for developing community among our students; to provide a forum for presenting creative and inspiring accomplishments of an academic nature; to foster the value of Empire State College as a learning community; and to immerse students in an academic culture.

Student Academic Conference Program

The Student Academic Conference is a two-day event held at the Central New York Center of Empire State College in Syracuse, NY. The first day will focus on workshops for students covering a wide range of academic topics from dealing with math anxiety to navigating the college library. We have solicited presenters throughout the college who are experts in their field to lead these workshops.

The Central Arts Gallery is a space within the center devoted to displaying works by students from Central New York. For the conference, this space will be devoted to student work from across the state. A reception sponsored by the Alumni and Student Relations Office will be held in the Central Arts Gallery on Friday evening.

The second day is focused on students showcasing their academic work through panel discussions, workshops, multimedia presentations, poster displays and artwork. The range of student work is multidisciplinary as reflected by our diverse student body.

A thematic thread throughout the previous conferences has been redefining traditional concepts of scholars and embracing other ways of knowing. The conference brings you together to contribute, question and further your roles as scholars and members of an academic community.

How can I participate?

It is our hope that you will consider presenting a session at this conference; such as a paper you have written, a project you have been involved with or a particular area you are passionate about. However, presenting at the conference is not a requirement for attendance. You are welcome to attend one or both days. Any guests attending the conference with students will be charged a $20 registration fee.

History of the Student Academic Conference

The Student Academic Conference grew out of the efforts of the Student Affairs Committee (SAC) in 2004. The Student Affairs Committee examined the ways we recognize the academic and personal achievements of our students. After researching already existing regional events and brainstorming new ideas, SAC secured funding through the Student Activity Fee (SAF) for this conference, the first of its kind for Empire State College.

The current planning committee consists of a wide range of college administrators and students who are committed to continuing the organic process of exchange.

Have a question?
You can e-mail the Student Academic Conference Committee at: StudentAcademicConference@esc.edu.