Welcome and Opening Remarks

It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to each of you joining us for Research Days 2024 where we are poised to embark on an exhilarating journey of knowledge, exploration, and discovery.

In today’s fast-paced world, research stands as a beacon of enlightenment, guiding us towards innovative solutions to the myriad challenges facing society. This event serves as a platform for faculty and students from diverse disciplines to converge, collaborate, and catalyze advancements in their respective fields.

Over the course of three days, we have meticulously curated a program that promises to inspire, engage, and provoke thought. From presentations by thought leaders to interactive panel discussions and captivating poster presentations, there will be ample opportunities to delve into the latest breakthroughs, exchange insights, and forge meaningful connections.

The richness of this gathering lies not only in the depth of knowledge shared but also in the bonds forged among fellow enthusiasts of discovery. As we embark on this collective quest for understanding, let us embrace the spirit of curiosity, open-mindedness, and collaboration. Together, let us push the boundaries of knowledge and pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future.

If you cannot join us in person, please take the time to browse the posters and research presentations you see listed. Once again, welcome to Research Days 2024. May your experience be enriching, enlightening, and filled with moments of inspiration.

Sincerely,

Sue Porterfield, Ed.D.

Vice President for Research

Kean University

Acknowledgements

Research Days has grown into one of the most coveted academic events on campus. On behalf of the Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF), I would like to recognize the support and hard work of those who made the 2024 Research Days possible.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to President Lamont Repollet for his generous support for Research Days. I am grateful for his leadership and advocacy in championing student research initiatives. The event began in 2009 with 90 students taking part and this year more than 1,200 students will present their research and creative work.

I would also like to thank Dr. David Birdsell, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dr. Sue Porterfield, Vice President for Research, for their unwavering support of all forms of student research and their relentless encouragement.

The success of our Research Days has made me overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible dedication and support of our faculty research mentors and student researchers in creating a thriving research culture at Kean University.

Lastly, I am thankful to all members of the CURF staff who were involved in all aspects of Research Days.

Together, we have established an environment where curiosity thrives and ideas flourish. Our shared enthusiasm for research and creativity has made Research Days a platform where groundbreaking discoveries are celebrated and meaningful connections are forged.

Respectfully,

Reenat Munshi

Director of Student Research & Innovation

Center for Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (CURF)

Office of Research and Sponsored Programs