The Center of Excellence for Women & Technology kicked off this year’s Emerging Scholars Research Experience for undergraduates with a successful orientation on September 28th, welcoming 65 student participants from six schools, 59% of whom had no prior research experience. Paired with 45 faculty mentors across seven schools, students will carry out 46 innovative projects while completing research-methods coursework, presenting in a campus-wide poster session, and building essential skills in data analysis, communication, and digital development. With 71% of mentors returning and a long-term impact that now includes 623 students, 193 faculty mentors, and 393 cumulative projects since the program began in 2014, Emerging Scholars continues to provide early undergraduates with an accessible and supportive entry point into research. Many participants ultimately go on to publish, present at national and international conferences, and pursue additional research opportunities, reflecting the program’s sustained success in sparking curiosity and launching meaningful academic pathways.
The Center of Excellence for Women & Technology was also proud to cohost a packed screening of A.rtificial I.mmortality on October 14th with the IU Cinema, the Initiative for the Advancement of Women (OVPFAA), and the Luddy School, drawing more than 125 attendees for an evening exploring the future of AI, identity, and digital consciousness. The film sparked a lively panel discussion featuring Selma Šabanović, Nathan Ensmenger, and Amy Kinney (Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering), Eliza Frenkel (Department of Anthropology), and Katy Abramson (Department of Philosophy), who offered thoughtful perspectives on the ethical and societal implications raised in the documentary. Audience questions and conversation continued, reflecting strong community interest in these emerging issues. CEW&T is grateful to partners and participants for making this such a vibrant and thought-provoking event.
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