Six University of Wisconsin-Superior students joined nearly 125 of their peers at the 22nd annual Research in the Rotunda, an event that brings undergraduate innovation and discovery to the Wisconsin State Capitol. Students, alongside their faculty advisers, presented their research to the Governor, state legislators, business leaders, alumni and members of the public.

“Presenting at Research in the Rotunda was an incredible experience,” said Kidest Seabhatleabe Mitiku, a senior majoring in public leadership and changemaking with a concentration in international humanitarian law, and a double minor in political science and behavioral neuroscience. “It was both exciting and meaningful to share my work in a space where research and policy intersect, especially on a topic that is personally important to me.”

The event offered a unique opportunity to learn about the impressive research conducted by students from across Wisconsin. Rachel Taylor, a senior triple majoring in biology, psychology and chemistry, said her favorite part of the experience was engaging with a wide range of audiences.

“I spoke with Mr. Jay Rothman, the president of the Universities of Wisconsin, state senator representatives, interested students, and members of the general public. This allowed me to tailor my work in an accessible way and reach a diverse population of people about my findings.”

For UW-Superior students, the event provided valuable networking and a chance to showcase their work among peers from other Universities of Wisconsin institutions.

Taylor noted that one-on-one conversations helped her better adapt explanations to meet each listener’s background and interests.

“I felt that these smaller interactions were most beneficial so each person could take away something useful for their respective disciplines or lives,” she said.

Mitiku expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent UW-Superior and highlight issues affecting vulnerable communities.

 “Experiences like Research in the Rotunda show how student research can contribute to larger conversations about policy and global justice,” she said. She also recognized the support of SURF and her advisor, Professor Khalil Haji, whose guidance was instrumental in developing and presenting her research.

For students statewide, Research in the Rotunda celebrates academic achievement and the power of undergraduate research.

“Undergraduate research accelerates learning in powerful ways, and it’s happening at UW universities across Wisconsin,” said Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman. “Through this work, our students build skills employers count on – critical thinking, adaptability, and the confidence to contribute from day one.”

The event was made possible through the generous support of Kwik Trip, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, BioForward, the Wisconsin Technology Council, the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, and the UW-Milwaukee Research Foundation.

Additional support was provided by the Wisconsin Department of Administration and the UW-Madison Memorial Union.

More information, including detailed program listings and project titles, is available on the official Research in the Rotunda website: wisconsin.edu/research-in-the-rotunda/.