Undergraduate Research Week keynote featuring Rashawn Ray held April 21 at the Ballroom on the Edinburg campus. Diego Montano/Vaquero Radio
As part of Undergraduate Research Week, the Office of Engaged Scholarship and Learning hosted a keynote address by Rashawn Ray on April 21 at the Ballroom on the Edinburg campus.
Ray, a sociology professor and senior fellow, shared insights from his academic and professional journey, encouraging students to see their ideas and lived experiences as powerful tools for change.
The talk highlighted how curiosity can evolve into impactful research that reaches beyond the classroom.
Steven Foy, professor of sociology and undergraduate research fellow for engaged scholarship and learning, shared his experience as part of the organizing team.
“I think it’s a great way to start thinking about how you can turn a question you have or concern you have or a thing that you want to accomplish into something that is tangible,” Foy said.
Bianca De La Rosa, who attended the event, said she valued the chance to engage with others.
“I get to communicate with the students, I get to know more about them and what they’re doing,” De La Rosa said.
Ray said events like Undergraduate Research Week bring people together to share ideas and inspire innovation.
“I thought it was great. You know, this is a conference that brings a lot of undergraduate and graduate students together to share their research, to think about community engaged work.” Ray said.
Organizers said the event is part of a broader effort to support students through funding opportunities and mentorship. Helping transform their academic interests into research, creative work and community engagement projects.
For more information on future events, visit the UTRGV webpage on VLink.
This is Diego Montaño for Vaquero Radio.
