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Students Shine at 2026 Spring Undergraduate Research Forum (SURF)
The culmination of academic experiences and achievements were showcased throughout the day
University News | May 5, 2026
Innovation, scholarship and creativity were on display across campus on May 1, during the Spring Undergraduate Research Forum (SURF). The full-day event, held across multiple venues, highlighted the remarkable academic and artistic achievements of VWU students through presentations, performances, and special receptions.
The day began with an International Coffee Reception hosted in the Hofheimer Library’s Athenaeum, bringing together faculty, staff, and students in a warm kickoff led by Brooke Novkovic, Alice Jones, and John Rudel. Soon after, the Premier Speakers Session showcased the university’s high-achieving researchers. Computer Science student Alen Curovic presented on wildfire modeling in California, alongside distinguished peers Kaylee Grimstead (Political Science), Harrison Merrill (History and Social Science), and Joaquin Garza (Instrumental Music).
Late morning concurrent sessions featured a range of disciplines and dialogue. Topics included the impacts of invasive plant species, molecular biology curiosities, and urban tree planting as environmental justice efforts. At the same time, Tia Durand’s talk, "The First-Gen Experience," offered an inspiring look into the triumphs and challenges of first-generation college students. Meanwhile, the “Democracy as Facade” session examined civic and political discourse across multiple student panels.
By midday, five simultaneous sessions reflected the breadth of VWU’s academic landscape—from Education field reports and Psychology studies to Music capstone performances and discussions of World War II resistance movements. A highlight of the afternoon was the Special Reception recognizing student response projects to Virginia MOCA’s Nina Chanel Abney: “The Pursuit of Happiness,” blending contemporary art with scholarly reflection.
The university’s tradition of excellence continued with the Honors Convocation, honoring students for exemplary academic performance, followed by the bustling Academic Fair Poster Session, where more than 140 posters displayed research across science, social issues, and creative fields.
Even the evening hours pulsed with energy and artistry. The Senior Art Majors Exhibition Reception in the Neil Britton Art Gallery celebrated graduating artists Jeremiah Boateng, Sharice Puryear, Kevin McSwain, Sarah Richards, Abagail Peck, Ava Staunch, and Anika Valentine.
The grand finale, the Marlins Jazz Ensemble Concert, filled the Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center with vibrant sound under the direction of Dr. Jason Squinobal, closing the day on a high note.
From the sciences to the arts, SURF 2026 reflected Virginia Wesleyan University’s unwavering commitment to undergraduate research, mentorship, and experiential learning. The event not only celebrated student achievement but also reinforced the university’s role as a community of inquiry, creativity, and collaboration.