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The inaugural Warner Research Days was a resounding success, drawing more than 100 students, faculty, and staff for two days of engaging research presentations, rich dialogue, and vibrant community connection. Held in April 2025, the event marked an important milestone in showcasing the diverse and impactful research taking place across the Warner School of Education and Human Development.

Samantha Daley, associate professor and associate dean for research, explains that the first-ever Warner Research Days provided an exciting opportunity to celebrate and share the wonderful research happening throughout the Warner School community.

“The variety of important questions explored — from food insecurity, to the use of augmented reality in medical education, to theories of psychotherapy — demonstrated the richness of scholarly efforts that support our mission,” adds Daley, who was instrumental in bringing Warner Research Days to life. “It was rewarding to come together in conversation and connection with master’s and doctoral students, faculty, and staff, all recognizing the intersections in our work and experiences.”

The event featured thought-provoking poster sessions and fast-paced research talks, offering a platform for emerging scholars to share their work, spark discussions, and build connections across disciplines. The atmosphere buzzed with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to advancing knowledge in education, counseling, and human development. 

One of the presenters, human development PhD student Abigail Hoffman, co-presented a poster titled “Expectations Matter: Attitudes Toward Aging and the Experience of Loneliness” with ���ɱ��� Medical Center faculty member Kimberly Van Orden. Hoffman describes the experience as supportive and energizing.

“Although I have been a student here for nearly three years, this was the first opportunity I had to share my research outside of the classroom and learn more about the exciting research my colleagues are doing,” she says. 

Reflecting on her research, Hoffman explains that loneliness often stems from a mismatch between the desired and actual quality or quantity of social relationships. This emotional loneliness is a significant factor in poor physical and psychological health. Her research found that older adults who internalize negative stereotypes about aging — known as internalized ageism — are more likely to experience both social and emotional loneliness. 

“Warner Research Days helped demystify the process and experience of sharing research in a supportive environment,” shares Hoffman. “Going through the process of translating my research into a poster format and tending to all the practical details was a great learning experience.” 

For Hoffman, the most meaningful part of the event was the informal conversations with students, professors, and peers.  “The buzz of sharing conversations and soaking up their genuine interest — and hopefully doing the same for them — was memorable." 

Doctoral student Sarah Sarchet also co-presented a poster titled “Instructional Strategies for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students with Disabilities: What Do We Know?” with Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Karen Tobin, and Melissa Skyer. 

During the event, she shared her reflections on the importance of justice-centered science teaching. “It helps kids to really feel, ‘I’m a scientist, too.’” she says. “Well, Warner Research Days helped me to feel like a researcher and scholar, too! This event did a lot to kill the imposter syndrome in me.” 

Sarchet is already looking forward to returning next year, when she plans to present her dissertation research. 

In addition to faculty and student research presentations, awards were given to three groups for their flash talks and three groups for their poster sessions. View the presentation award winners and photo gallery.