Scholarly and creative works by 315 students showcased at academic exposition April 30

Nearly 200 different posters, presentations and performances will be featured at the annual Student Research and Creativity Exposition, now in its 11th year at SUNY Fredonia, on Thursday, April 30 from noon to 7 p.m. in the Williams Center’s Multipurpose Room.

Alumnus Shaun Nelms, ’99, who exhibited considerable academic and athletic talent as a student before embarking on a highly successful career in teaching and educational administration, will deliver the keynote address at 4:15 p.m.

A record 315 students, representing most academic departments, will participate in the expo, which boasts 123 posters or displays, 33 oral presentations, eight computer presentations, 22 service learning projects, a global learning project, a staged combat scene, two musical performances and a theater performance. Presentations are scheduled at various locations in the Williams Center; exhibits can be viewed throughout the day.

“We should be very proud of what our students have been able to accomplish and I hope that everyone will stop over to congratulate them on their work,” said Dr. Jack Croxton, a psychology professor and the director of the Office of Student Creative Activity and Research (OSCAR).

Starting at 4 p.m., brief addresses will be given by President Dennis Hefner, Vice President for Academic Affairs Virginia Horvath, and Dr. Croxton, followed by the keynote address by Nelms entitled, “Using Data to Drive Teaching and Learning in Schools.”

Nelms earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Adolescence Education at Fredonia, and went on to add a Master’s in Educational Administration from the University of Rochester, as well as a New York State permanent certification as a school administrator and supervisor. A former middle school Social Studies teacher in the Rochester City School and Greece Central School districts, and later an assistant principal in the Greece school system, Nelms is currently the principal of Burger Middle School in the Rush-Henrietta Central School District.

Visual Arts & New Media major Lynsey Watkins stands outside of Rockefeller Arts Center with her project, entitled, "Make Believe."

Early in his career, Nelms exhibited a strong ability to assist at-risk students with behavioral and social needs, serving as a role model and offering advice and guidance for use inside and outside of the classroom. He has shared his knowledge and experiences at various conferences and with collegiate students. Though only 10 years have passed since he earned his Fredonia degree, Nelms has already had a measurable positive impact on his staff, students and the educational community.

A reception follows Nelms’ address. Refreshments will be available throughout the day.

Detailed descriptions of the many expo events can be found at www.fredonia.edu/oscar by clicking on “View 2009 Expo Schedule” or by going to www.fredonia.edu and clicking on “Student Research and Creativity Expo” under “What’s Happening” on the Fredonia home page.