Camarillo, Calif., April 13, 2011 – The first California State University Undergraduate Research Leadership Conference will be hosted by California State University Channel Islands (CI) on Friday, April 15. This event is sponsored by the California State University, Office of the Chancellor.  More than 90 participants from 22 campuses will participate in the day’s event to share best practices that will further strengthen undergraduate research efforts within the CSU system. Nationally recognized speakers will share their extensive experience in organizing, promoting and supporting undergraduate research at their institutions and nationally.

Engaging undergraduate students in research, scholarship and creative activities is an important teaching and learning platform. It helps students learn effectively and develop critical thinking and communication skills. Working with a faculty mentor shapes students’ aspirations for careers as well as graduate and professional degree programs. Faculty members at CSU campuses create a broad spectrum of opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research experiences within- and in partnerships with communities.

CI’s President Richard R. Rush stated “We are delighted to host such an important conference on our campus. Undergraduate research at CSU campuses uniquely prepares our graduates for the global market. We are proud of our faculty for creating these opportunities for our students to strengthen further their understanding about how they can impact the society to improve the quality of life for all citizens.”

Elizabeth L. Ambos, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research Initiatives and Partnerships at the California State University, Office of the Chancellor said: “Undergraduate Research is known to be a high impact educational practice that can contribute significantly to student success.  Through this ground-breaking conference, we will obtain the first-ever system-wide assessment of undergraduate research activity in the CSU.  The lessons learned and best practices shared at Channel Islands will provide important insights into how the California State University can further develop its undergraduate research activities.”

This event directly precedes the 14th Annual CSU University Teaching Conference, which will also be held on the Channel Islands campus on Saturday, April 16.

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About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands (CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning.  CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees.  Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research.

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About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands
(CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research. CI has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to serving students of all backgrounds from the region and beyond. Connect with and learn more by visiting CI's Social Media.

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