Seton Hall University will mark the 30th anniversary of its Petersheim Academic Exposition from April 20 to April 25, 2026. The event, themed “Share, Honor, Unite,” is designed to bring together undergraduate and graduate students, alumni, and faculty across a range of academic fields.
The exposition opens with a ceremony on Monday, April 20 at Bethany Hall and concludes with a keynote address by Reverend Joseph R. Laracy on Friday, April 24 in the McNulty Hall Amphitheater. The weeklong program includes research symposia, poster sessions, panel discussions, art exhibits, concerts, and other activities in both virtual and in-person formats. Event details and schedules are available on the Petersheim Academic Exposition website.
Distinguished University Research Professor Sulie Lin Chang commented on the milestone: “As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Petersheim Academic Expo, we recognize how it has evolved into a vibrant celebration of our community’s shared commitment to research-based teaching and curriculum innovation — a vision first articulated more than two decades ago, at a time when its full significance had yet to be widely embraced. Today, that vision has truly come of age.” Chang added: “The Expo reflects Seton Hall’s enduring dedication to research excellence and mentorship, providing a distinctive forum where scholars from all disciplines connect, showcase their achievements and engage in meaningful dialogue. These interdisciplinary conversations have fostered collaborations that have laid the foundation for the establishment and growth of diverse academic initiatives across the University.”
Students who wish to participate must submit abstracts by March 13 with support from a faculty sponsor. Faculty and community members are also encouraged to propose events through an online submission form.
The exposition was established as a tribute to its founder Matthew Petersheim, an associate professor of chemistry who died in 1998. According to Chang: “While he was ill and asked whether we should skip a year, Dr. Petersheim firmly reminded us, ‘The exposition must continue!’ Those words have stayed with me ever since. Indeed, we did not stop and continued even during the pandemic years (2021-2022). I personally witnessed his unwavering dedication and steadfast leadership. Petersheim’s commitment to advancing the mission of the exposition never faltered, even in the face of serious health challenges.”
Professor Jose L. Lopez noted: “For 30 years, we have gathered to carry forward Dr. Petersheim’s vision with a powerful gathering of great minds, celebrating a diverse community of excellence. The Expo is a chance to see how our students translate classroom learning into professional practice, all while honoring our shared commitment to servant leadership and inspiring great minds to greater purpose.”
Participation offers students practical experience presenting scholarly work as well as opportunities for professional development. Presenters are also eligible for Student Travel Awards that provide financial support for sharing research at conferences beyond Seton Hall.
More information about events or participation can be found on the Petersheim Academic Exposition website.
