We cordially invite undergraduates to submit proposals on topics related to the Liberal Arts—disciplines (and interdisciplinary programs) associated with the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. We encourage traditional paper presentations as well as posters, films, art, poetry, drama, and other forms of creative expression. 

While proposals might address any appropriate topic, priority will be given to those related to this year’s theme, “Being Political and the Politics of Being.” At its most obvious, we witness politics in governmental contexts, from presidential primaries and local elections to environmental regulations and foreign policy decisions. Beyond this, though, political discourses shape and are shaped by our daily lives and interactions—at our schools and universities, in the food that we eat, and through our physical and digital landscapes. Additionally, a careful eye sees politics flowing through a range of social forces, to include religion, science, the arts, culture, technology, media, economics, and marketing. At our conference, the scope of “politics” will be limited only by the imaginations of those who attend.  

Events will begin on Friday afternoon with an “Ethics Bowl” competition. For further details please contact Dr. Kyle Thomsen (kthomsen[at]francis.edu). Anyone unfamiliar with this unique philosophical contest can learn more1.

On Friday evening, the keynote address will be given by John Fea, Professor of American History at Messiah College. Fea’s talk will derive from his 2011 book2. Professor Fea is the author or editor of four books and his essays and reviews have appeared in a variety of scholarly and popular venues. He blogs daily.3

Student presentations (approximately 20 minutes each) will be on Saturday from 9:00 AM–5:00 PM. Posters, artwork, and other standing pieces will be available in a common meeting area. At the conclusion of the conference, a panel of judges will award the top student performers with cash prizes.

Proposal abstracts (approximately 250 words): Please include your full name, title, format (paper, poster, etc.), institution, e-mail, phone number, and the name and contact information of your academic advisor.E-mail proposals and papers to TELUndergradConference[at]gmail.com.

This conference is open to the public and free for presenters and non-presenters. For more information, please visit our website or contact Dr. Arthur Remillard (aremillard[at]francis.edu)

  • 1. http://appe.indiana.edu/ethics-bowl/ethics-bowl/
  • 2. Was America Founded as a Christian Nation?: A Historical Introduction
  • 3. http://www.philipvickersfithian.com/