On April 16, 2025, Chowan University hosted the 27th Annual Student Research Conference (CUSRC) as part of the Chowan Academic Forum: A Celebration of the Intellectual and Artistic Life of the University.

This year’s theme of Community inspired students and faculty to explore how scholarship, creativity, and connection intersect. Open to students from all majors, the CUSRC provides a platform for students to showcase their research and academic passions, with the support of faculty sponsors who help guide their projects.

The 2025 conference featured over 96 student presentations spanning biology, criminal justice, business, integrative studies, psychology, sports management, education, the visual and performing arts, religion, history, exercise science, graphic design, mathematics, and music. Organized by discipline and moderated by faculty, the sessions included lectures, posters, art displays, and musical performances — all engaging audiences of students, faculty, and staff in lively discussion.

A standout presentation came from Emma Joyner, who displayed a traditional Native American dress she handmade, honoring her Cherokee heritage and raising awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW).

Several students were honored with awards for their exceptional work, including:

• Best Business Paper: Sarai Sanders

• Best Biology, Psychology, Sports Science, and Mathematics Paper: Joshua James

• Best Criminal Justice Paper: Alexandra Bishop

• Best Religion, History, Education, and Integrative Studies Paper: Haley Lowe

• Best Poster Presentation: Emashara’e Seaberry

• Best Visual Display: Mia Turner

• Best Musical Performance: Jerry Perry

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Jaimes D. McNeal, an industrial-organizational psychologist, who spoke on Teaching from the Inside Out: Community, Curiosity, and the Courage to Learn, drawing on his own life journey to inspire students to embrace lifelong learning and the power of connection.

The 2025 CUSRC was a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge — a defining feature of the Chowan University experience.