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Each year, ������ý hosts IdeaFest, a multidisciplinary student research event established more than 20 years ago by Dr. Paul Fessler, professor of history.

While this year marks the first without Fessler’s leadership, IdeaFest—with support from the Kielstra Center and the Research & Scholarship committee—will continue to be a vibrant reflection of Dordt’s commitment to student research and scholarship.

“Under Paul’s direction, what began in 2004 as an interdisciplinary celebration of student academic work has grown into an annual event bringing the Dordt campus community together,” says Emily Mettler, research & scholarship program coordinator at Dordt. “Through IdeaFest, Paul has helped to shape a culture that emphasizes the importance of engaging students in research and creative activities, which enhances their learning experiences and academic success.”

This year, 103 students will present at IdeaFest on Monday, May 4—representing a variety of disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, business, chemistry, digital media, nursing, philosophy, and theology.

In addition to formal presentations, a series of posters and exhibits will be displayed in the Science Building atrium, where student researchers will be available to answer questions from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Refreshments will be served near the Natural Sciences Office.

“IdeaFest is an opportunity for students to exit their disciplinary silos and share high-quality academic work with the broader Dordt community,” says Dr. Jason Ho, chair of the Research & Scholarship committee at Dordt. “It’s a celebration of Dordt’s developing researchers and scholars across all disciplines and fields, highlighting the curiosity and enthusiasm of our students. Our disciplines give us different ways of seeing God’s good creation, and IdeaFest allows us a chance to broaden our perspectives and see the world differently.”

The event is free to attend and open to the public. For more information on specific presentations, please see the program.

About ������ý

As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, ������ý equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.