The New York Times best-selling author to headline USF Research Symposium
March 13, 2018
The New York Times best-selling author Theresa Brown, RN, will be the keynote speaker for the 10th annual USF Research Symposium on Thursday, April 19. The public is welcome to attend Brown’s address at 7 p.m. in the Jeschke Fine Arts Center’s Meredith Auditorium on the University of Sioux Falls campus.
Theresa Brown, a clinical nurse, has authored two bestselling books on nursing and frequently contributes toThe New York Times. Her writing focuses on nursing and health care, and her vivid, experience-driven writing has been recognized by former President Barack Obama.
“Theresa is an extraordinary figure, someone who embodies the liberal arts spirit of USF, and I think our regional medical community as well,” said Dr. Kevin Cole, organizer of the research symposium and professor of English at USF. “We’re honored and excited to offer this free event to the community and the region.”
Brown has a Ph.D. in English from the University of Chicago and taught English for three years at Tufts University. She stayed home with her three children after working at Tufts and was inspired by them to return to school and become a nurse.
“As baby boomers age and the number of people needing health care increases, nurses are needed more than ever,” said Dr. Cheri Kovalenko, associate professor of Nursing at USF, who is also helping organize the symposium. “It’s an incredibly important field, and I’d add that once again this year, nursing tops this year’s Gallup Poll of most trusted professions for the 16th year in a row.”
Brown’s keynote is the highlight of the day-long research symposium. From 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Cleveland Professional Development Center, students will showcase the undergraduate research they are conducting—as individuals, with partners and in collaboration with USF faculty—through oral presentations.
“The research symposium provides our students with the opportunity to present their research,” said Joy Lind, Vice President for Academic Affairs at USF. “This experience is excellent preparation for graduate level research, as well as presentations whether in graduate school or their chosen professions.”
Every year the USF Research Symposium showcases academic excellence at USF and provides a tangible opportunity for students to engage in their field of study, gain experience through presentation and learn from each other.