Carroll College announced on April 16 that it will host the 2026 Student Research Festival, inviting both the campus and Helena community to participate in a showcase of undergraduate research across multiple disciplines.
The event is an annual opportunity for students to present their scholarly work, allowing them to share findings through oral and poster presentations while engaging with faculty, peers, and visitors. The festival highlights research in sciences, humanities, social sciences, arts, and more.
This year’s festival begins with a keynote address by Mauricio López Oropeza on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m. in the Lower Campus Center. Oropeza is co-founder and lay Vice President of the Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon (CEAMA). His talk is titled “From the Amazon to Montana: A Journey towards Integral Ecology, Faith, and Shared Hope” and will focus on how faith, science, and intercultural dialogue can inform responses to ecological and social challenges.
On Friday, April 24 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., over 150 Carroll students will present research projects spanning subjects such as accounting, health sciences, environmental science, computer science, Hispanic studies, nursing, biochemistry-molecular biology as well as mathematics, neuroscience, theology, fine arts and psychology. The day concludes with a closing panel at 4:00 p.m., “Laudato Si’ and Carroll’s New Sustainability Minor,” followed by a public reception at 5:00 p.m.
“The Student Research Festival reflects the depth of inquiry-based learning at Carroll and the meaningful collaboration between students and faculty,” said Dr. Jennifer Glowienka, Interim Co-President of Carroll College. “It is an opportunity to celebrate the intellectual curiosity, creativity,and impact of our students’ work.”
The festival is free for all attendees. Organizers encourage community members to attend sessions throughout both days. Supporters including Trustee Dr. Russ Bell as well as donors from Saints Giving Day have contributed resources for this event alongside various campus partners.
