Rutgers Democracy Lab Showcase
Information
We invite you to join us on April 23, 2026, from 12:00–4:00 PM at the Cook Student Center for the Rutgers Democracy Lab Showcase, an afternoon highlighting the work, ideas, and collaborations shaping democracy-focused research and engagement across Rutgers University.
The Showcase is an opportunity to reflect on the interdisciplinary pathways for civic learning and democratic research that the Rutgers Democracy Lab has developed across its inaugural year. As we celebrate Solving Grand Challenges Month, we invite the Rutgers community to our inaugural Showcase to explore our student-led programming, events, and research and to imagine new ways to engage with democracy.
You'll hear remarks from RDL's inaugural director, Dr. Nick Longo, followed by fast-paced lightning talks from RDL faculty and staff, as well as a parallel session of student poster presentations featuring hands-on democratic engagement and research in action. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet RDL students and faculty fellows, discuss ongoing projects, and connect with RDL staff and partners.
Registration
Please register by Monday, April 20 to confirm your attendance. Registration is required.
(Note: This showcase is open to all Rutgers University faculty, staff, students, and the public.)
Event Overview
Location: Cook Student Center, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
12:00–12:30 PM - Lunch and networking
12:30–1:00 PM - Welcome and introductions from RDL Leadership
1:00–3:00 PM - Simultaneous Lightning Talks & Poster Presentations (explore more below)
3:00–4:00 PM - Coffee and networking/Recruitment and tabling from key RDL programs and affiliates
Lightning Talk Schedule
1:00–1:10 PM
Inspiring Democratic Engagement through Digital Media Production Coursework
Professor Alyse Shorland
1:12–1:22 PM
Amplify Democracy: A Student-Led Podcast and Digital Toolkit on Civic Engagement through the Arts
Dr. Cleopatra Charles
1:24–1:34 PM
Democracy and Critical Thinking in Business Ethics: A Course Module
Dr. Joanne Ciulla
1:36–1:46 PM:
Does Informing Potential Voters Make for an Informed Vote?
Dr. Richard Lau and Dr. Katherine McCabe
1:48–1:58 PM
The Rutgers Health Policy and Advocacy Corps.
Jack Hemphill
2:00–2:10 PM
Dr. Debra Borie-Holtz
2:12–2:22 PM
Policy Collaboratory
Dr. Elizabeth Cooner & Dr. Kevin Majewski
2:24–2:34 PM
Conflict to Connection Trainings with Rutgers Student Leaders
Dr. Amy Miele
2:36–2:46 PM
Rutgers Scarlet Service
2:48–2:58 PM
RDL Civics Bootcamps and Experiential Learning Experiences through Eagleton Education Programs
Professor Ginger Gold Schnitzer