On May 2, 2024, Wagner College held its inaugural Celebration of Scholarly and Artistic Student Work, showcasing an array of talents and achievements from students and professors, underlining the college's commitment to both academic and creative excellence.
The day kicked off with an inspiring performance by the Wagner College Choir, conducted by student composer Logan Feeney, followed by opening remarks from Provost Tarshia Stanley and MBA student Christian Young.
As the sessions unfolded, students took center stage, sharing their research and passions with the Wagner community. A standout session, "Cuisine: Chemistry and Culture," featured students Logan Vukovic and Tharusha Wewalagamage, who offered a unique blend of Anthropological and Chemistry perspectives on lasagna, complete with a taste test that added a flavorful dimension to their presentation.
Artistry was also prominently on display, with the corridors of Main Hall adorned with student artwork. Education students shared reflections on their growth and experiences during their student-teaching assignments, providing insights into the practical application of their learned skills.
After lunch on the Oval, provided by Montalbanos and Chartwells, the Deane's Scholars Committee, consisting of Celeste Gagnon, Brett Palfreyman, and Mohammad Alauddin, recognized four students with the prestigious Deane's Scholar Award. The award highlights student projects aimed at greening the Wagner campus and addressing environmental injustice in Staten Island's North Shore Community.
During the following concurrent session, Dr. Eric Wilson’s creative writing class delivered an extraordinary reading in the uniquely atmospheric setting of the dimly lit planetarium. This session underscored the commitment of Wagner’s students to making a meaningful impact through their scholarly endeavors.
The event drew to a close with heartfelt thanks from Rosa Santana to the sponsors, whose contributions were crucial in enhancing student presentations through the acquisition of a new poster printer. Dr. Taviare Hawkins and President Angelo Araimo summed up the day, emphasizing that the event perfectly captured the essence of Wagner College: a vibrant celebration of diverse fields and passion.