WKU News

Calling all WKU students: Have a research question you've been chasing, a creative project you're proud of, or a discovery you can't wait to share? The Student Scholar Showcase is the place to do it. Today, the abstract portal opens for the 57th edition of this beloved WKU tradition, taking place Saturday, March 6, 2027, at DSU.

Since 1970, the Showcase has brought students, mentors, and the wider campus community together to celebrate the work happening across every discipline at WKU. For more than five decades, it has been a place where students step up, share what they've learned, and see their ideas take shape in front of an audience.

How to Participate

Every WKU student is welcome. Students can submit abstracts through the portal at wku.edu/showcase/abstract.

An abstract should be a single paragraph of 200 words or fewer that tells the story of the work. Each should cover:

•         The intro (the spark): the research question, project goal, or intent

•         The approach: the methods used

•         The findings: key results, if available by the time of submission

•         The meaning: why the work matters and what the student concluded

Each student may submit one abstract as primary presenter and include up to three co-presenters. Presentation formats include oral papers, posters, pre-recorded performances, and videos. A WKU faculty mentor must approve each abstract, so students are encouraged to start that conversation early. Presenters should plan to attend the full day on March 6.

Volunteer as a Session Chair

Faculty, staff, and alumni are invited to volunteer as Session Chairs, who guide presentations and facilitate conversations, helping students feel supported as they share their work. Session Chair sign-ups are available here and open through Monday, February 15, 2027.

Mark Your Calendar

•         Friday, February 5, 2027: Student abstracts due

•         Friday, February 12, 2027: Faculty mentor approval due

•         Monday, February 15, 2027: Session Chair sign-up closes

•         Saturday, March 6, 2027, at DSU: Morning sessions run 8:30 to 10:45 AM, and the afternoon session runs 12:30 to 1:30 PM. Check-in for presenting students and Session Chair volunteers opens at 7:30 AM and is ongoing all day. Visit wku.edu/showcase for the full schedule and event details.

Why Participate

The Showcase is more than a presentation. It gives students a chance to share their work with an interested audience, build their academic profiles, and connect with faculty and peers who share their interests.

Curious what the day is like? These two YouTube shorts (one and two) offer advice from fellow students and a look at what Showcase Day feels like.

Attendees can also stop by the photo booth, open all day, to capture the moment. Big Red has been invited to join at lunch.

For questions, email student.showcase@wku.edu or visit wku.edu/showcase.