Whalen Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Whalen Symposium?

The James J. Whalen Symposium is an annual Ithaca College tradition that features student presentations of their learning—through research, creative works, service learning, internships, study abroad, and more—in a professional setting. The symposium celebrates mentored student learning, providing a conference-like atmosphere where students can present their work to members of the IC community. Each year’s symposium provides a rich sample of the wide range of undergraduate learning.

When is the Whalen Symposium?

The 2026 Whalen Symposium will be 

Tuesday, April 7 | 9:00 -5:00 pm (ET)

Your presentation will be assigned within this window. We encourage you to visit and observe other presentations throughout the day.

How are abstracts reviewed?

Only one abstract per presentation is necessary. A basic abstract or description of no more than 500 words is required to participate. Your abstract/description should address the five elements described below.

Think of your abstract as a condensed version of your final presentation. It should be no more than 500 words. Be sure to include:

1. Initial questions of investigation (why did you conduct the research or produce the creative work?)
2. Brief articulation of artists, forms, theories, methods, or movements inspiring or informing the creative work (research; techniques; how those techniques are manifested in the work and research that was conducted regarding various composers, representing various cultures, etc.)
3. How the work will be presented to the audience (if you will perform or present visual or performance art, be sure to describe the necessary space requirements).
4. Proposed significance to the field (what is new or revelatory about your creative work?)
5. Bibliography/list of references and works cited MUST be included if you cite any sources of information—e.g., articles, books, book chapters, websites, and personal communications. (These are not included in the abstract word limit.)
6. Optional: Supporting materials including charts, graphs, images, choreography documentation, or musical scores are encouraged but not necessary. (These items are not included in the word limit.)

WHAT TYPES OF PRESENTATIONS ARE AVAILABLE?

• Academic presentations showcase scholarly investigation of a particular area of study and advance knowledge by solving a problem, answering a particular question, making new connections, or challenging current understanding. This type of presentation includes discussion of research methodology such as collection and analysis of experimental data, review of clinical case reports, reviews of subject literature, theoretical exploration, and/or careful study of primary courses (including artistic creations such as musical compositions, visual artwork, media, and works of literature).
• Artistic performances and presentations allow students to demonstrate skills and work that might not be easily displayed through a traditional presentation. Performances involving music, theatre, and/or dance are welcome, as are readings of original written works (poetry, short stories, plays), showings of original films and other media, and exhibiting and discussing original visual artwork.
• Co-Curricular presentations allows students to share their Eureka Moments that take place outside a classroom that involve demonstrations of leadership or a paradigm shift as they navigate campus jobs, student or professional organizations, volunteer endeavors, and internships. Show how involvement in these experiences impacted their journey towards excellence in their position in the global community.
• Experiential Learning is engagement in, reflection on, and assessment of experiences outside the classroom. It employs the use of knowledge, imagination, and judgment to address questions in a novel context and explores connections between theory and practice, and between learning in courses and from experiences outside the classroom.

what dimensions should my poster be?

Posters can be up to 46 inches wide and 60 inches long. Digital Posters should be easily displayable.

What dates should I keep in mind?

Email whalen@ithaca.edu if you have questions.