The Showcase of Graduate Student Scholarship & Creative Activities
Friday, April 17, 2026
The Hall of Presidents (D-Hall, 3rd Floor)
The Graduate School celebrates the excellence of James Madison University graduate students at the Showcase of Graduate Student Scholarship & Creative Activities. Students from JMU's masters, doctoral, and graduate level certificate programs share their work with peers and faculty in a professional conference setting. The Graduate Showcase highlights research and scholarship through presentations, poster sessions, installations and performances.
The Showcase culminates with the Recognition Reception, where we recognize the Best Oral Presentation and Best Poster Presentation from the day. In addition, graduate students are recognized with awards for excellence in Innovation, Community Engagement and Civic Engagement, and Outstanding Thesis and Outstanding Dissertation. The Graduate Student Association (GSA) presents the GSA Impact Awards for the outstanding graduate student and faculty member.
April 17 Showcase Schedule:
- Oral Presentations - 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
- Poster Session - 2:00pm - 3:30 pm
- Recognition Reception - 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
We encourage you to attend graduate student art exhibits and music recitals presented throughout campus and virtually throughout the spring semester.
This special opportunity celebrates the excellence of our graduate students' creative and scholarly activities!
2026 Graduate Award Winners
Top Oral Presentation
Katherine Cooper
Biology, M.S.
Studio Art, M.F.A.
Top Poster Presentation
Wendy Kinyeki
Adult Education/Human ResourceDevelopment, M.S.Ed.
Thank You to the 2026 Showcase Judges
Oral Presentation Judges
- Dr. Orlandrew Danzell, Interim Associate Dean, The Graduate School
- Dr. John Goetschius, Associate Professor, Athletic Training
- Dr. Kristen Kelley, Assistant Professor and Communications Coordinator, The Learning Centers
- Dr. Sombo Muzata, Assistant Professor, Political Science
Poster Presentation Judges
- Dr. Emily Bouza, Lecturer and Disciplinary Writing Coordinator, University Writing Center
- Dr. Alex Lee, Catalog Editor and Curriculum Liaison, Faculty Affairs and Curriculum
- Ms. Hannah Payne, Enrollment and Student Success Specialist, The Graduate School
Past Showcases
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
Mon - Fri:
8 a.m. - 12 p.m. &
1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Closed 12 p.m. - 1 p.m. for lunch
