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 -4:00 pm (ET)
How are abstracts for awardS reviewed?
Only one abstract per presentation is necessary. A basic abstract of 250-500 words is required to participate. Your abstract should address the five elements described below.
In order for your abstract to be considered for an award, you must submit an extended abstract of 500-700 words. Sample abstracts and judging rubrics are provided on the website to assist in creating a successful abstract and presentation. Your extended abstract should address the following five elements.
The creation and production of live performance (dance, theatre, music, etc.) and works of visual and media art (musical compositions, film, photography, paintings, sculptures, costume and set designs, etc.) are valid scholarly contributions. Creative work falls under a category of research known as the “scholarship of discovery,” which is central to the education of students in the visual and performing arts. A successful abstract for a creative work proposed for inclusion in the Whalen Symposium will include:
1. The artist’s initial questions of investigation – (Why did you create the piece?)
2. Brief articulation of artists, forms, theories, methods or movements inspiring or informing the creative work (Research – techniques – how those techniques are manifested within the work and research that was done (regarding various composers, representing various cultures, etc.)
3. How the work will be presented to the audience (If performing or presenting a piece of visual art in conjunction with your presentation, indicate the necessary space requirements)
4. Proposed significance to the field (What is new or revelatory about your creative work?)
5. A bibliography/list of references and works cited (If you cited any sources of information— articles, books, book chapters, websites, and personal communications) MUST be included. These items are not included in the 500-700 word limit. It may be helpful for students to consider this a shorter version of their final presentation. Supporting materials including charts, graphs, images, choreography documentation or musical scores are encouraged, but not necessary. These items are not included in the 500-700 word limit.
How does judging for awards work?
Abstracts that have been submitted for awards will be approved by two separate faculty or staff abstract reviewers who have experience in a related field. The reviewers follow a rubric to rate each abstract, which can be downloaded for reference here. Abstracts which score an average of 12 or higher will be considered for award.
Students who are still being considered for award will be evaluated live by judges when they present their research during Whalen. Students will be judged on their presentation of their research's purpose/originality, their methods and framework, their results and conclusions, and the visual and logical organization of presentation. Once presentations have all been delivered, the judges deliberate using the presentation evaluations to decide on.
what dimensions should my poster be?
Posters can be up to 46 inches wide and 60 inches long.
What dates should I keep in mind?
The Intent to Participate form typically opens in November and closes in early March.
Email whalen@ithaca.edu if you have questions.