MCLA to Host the 22nd Annual Undergraduate Research Conference

Print Story | Email Story
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — On Thursday, April 18, 2024, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will hold the 22nd annual Undergraduate Research Conference (URC) to recognize students for their work and dedication in producing academic projects.
 
This year's keynote speaker is MCLA alumnus Deven Philbrick '16 – a poet and PhD Candidate in English Language and Literature at the University of Michigan. Philbrick earned his bachelor's in English/Communications & Philosophy with a double major in Literature and Writing concentrations from MCLA, then received a master's degree in creative writing from the University of Seattle-Washington in 2018. Currently, he is working on a dissertation on 20th-century innovative poetry and process philosophy.
 
The full-day event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a poster session at 11 a.m. and the keynote speaker and lunch at noon. Additional event schedules and locations are forthcoming.
 
"Undergraduate research is a value that underlies the mission of MCLA because it promotes excellence and innovation, creativity and critical thinking, service, and citizenship," said Graziana D'Elia-Brillante, URC chair and professor of modern languages at MCLA. "It is a transformative experience that transcends traditional classroom learning, offering students a profound journey of personal and intellectual growth going beyond textbooks, so students delve deeply into their chosen field, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts and methodologies."
 
Students will present 15-minute talks, posters, and artistic work; the URC will also include special sessions and events focused on specific themes and performances. Members of the media are welcome to cover this MCLA community event, sit in on virtual talks, and interview students and faculty members.
 
"Furthermore, undergraduate research nurtures a sense of independence and self-reliance, as students take ownership of their projects from conception to completion. This autonomy not only builds confidence but also instills a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence," said D'Elia-Brillante.   
 

Tags: MCLA,   

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Clarksburg Offers Town Administrator Post to Boucher

By Tammy DanielsiBerkshires Staff
CLARKSBURG, Mass. — The Select Board on Monday voted to offer the position of town administrator to Ronald Boucher, pending contract negotiations. 
 
"I think Ron's the best option, the safest option to move forward," said board member Colton Andrews.
 
Boucher is a former Select Board chair, town moderator and Finance Committee member and current member of the Planning Board. He's currently a regional sales manager for global EcoLab. He was notified during the meeting and agreed to meet with the board on his contract Friday morning. 
 
Should he accept the post, he will replace Carl McKinney; the board declined to renew his contract and his final day is Friday. 
 
Boucher was one of three candidates interviewed for the post; the others were Bryana Malloy, manager of industry relations manager for MassHire, and Kenneth Ward, Williamstown's information technology director. 
 
The board members agreed that Malloy, who unsuccessfully ran for the Select Board in June, and Boucher were their preferred candidates. 
 
Chair Robert Norcross gave a strong case for Malloy, citing her experience in applying for and administering grants. 
 
View Full Story

More North Adams Stories