Students present research at STU Ideas Fair, champion social causes

The Student Research and Ideas Fair provides a space for students to share independent research and engage with the academic community. (Credit: STU Communications) 

Students and faculty gathered in Brian Mulroney Hall at St. Thomas University on March 13 for the 22nd annual Student Research and Ideas Fair to present  students’ findings and research over the academic year.

Some students made formal presentations in classrooms, while others opted for making poster presentations in the hallway, where tables were arranged to display large boards.

First-year student Jack Gimby was among those presenting in the hallway. His project focused on opposition to a proposed data centre near the Spruce Lake Industrial Park, examining environmental concerns such as deforestation, water consumption and energy use.

“I live close to the area, so it felt personal,” said Gimby, adding that his group was interested in environmental impacts when selecting their topic.

The fair highlights how student work connects academic research to real-world challenges. (Credit: STU Communications)

Students Shanna Comeau and Abrielle LeBoeuf presented research on the proposed Sisson mine. Their project explored perspectives from community groups, non-profits and First Nations, examining whether the project represents economic development or environmental risk.

“I believe events like this push you as a student,” LeBoeuf said. “It helps you step out of your comfort zone and really focus on researching topics more in depth.”

Across the same floor, presentations also took place inside classrooms, where students delivered formal talks.

Classroom presentations at the fair allow students to present in a format similar to academic conferences. (Suzanne Shah/AQ)

Nicole Vera, a fourth-year student honouring in interdisciplinary studies with a major in economics, presented her thesis in one of the classrooms. 

Her research focuses on governance and accountability in environmental financing in the Galápagos Islands, examining a large “debt-for-nature” swap where Ecuador restructured national debt in exchange for conservation commitments. 

Vera said the fair creates opportunities for students to share research beyond the classroom and engage with feedback from faculty and peers.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for all students,” she said, noting that research is part of many courses but is not always presented publicly.

She also mentioned that presenting her work allowed her to reflect on it and consider different perspectives through questioning and dialogue.

The event brought together students at different stages of their academic careers, from first-year presenters to honours students completing thesis projects.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees moved between hallway displays and classroom presentations, speaking with students about their research and asking questions about their findings.

The Student Research and Ideas Fair continues to serve as a platform for students to present their work, improve their presentation skills and interact with the academic community at St. Thomas University.