Symposium of Applied Research (SOAR)
Celebrating 10 Years of SOARing Through Applied Research
SAVE THE DATE
October 15, 2026
5:00 – 8:00 PM PT
Join us as we celebrate a decade of SOAR (Symposium on Applied Research)—10 years of advancing applied research, fostering global collaboration, and disseminating impactful scholarship. This milestone recognizes the collective contributions of our researchers, faculty, students, alumni, and partners who have helped shape a vibrant global research community.
CALL FOR PROPOSALS
July 27, 2026 – August 16, 2026
Presenters are invited to submit their proposals using the SOAR Proposal Form. Priority will be given to high-quality proposals that demonstrate strong alignment with your College’s Mission Statement or Westcliff University’s Mission Statement while showcasing meaningful applied research and its impact on communities, industries, and society.
The 2026 SOAR symposium is an opportunity to come together to celebrate a decade of research excellence while looking toward the future. We encourage submissions that highlight innovative ideas, interdisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based practices, and research that creates positive change on a local, national, or global scale.
Now is the time to share your work with your global network of colleagues, engage with scholars and practitioners from around the world, and inspire the next generation of researchers. Together, let’s celebrate 10 years of SOARing through Applied Research at Westcliff University and continue building a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and global impact.
There are two types of submissions for the SOAR 2026 symposium.
- Research Presentation | Celebrating A Decade of Research (20 minutes)
Presenters are invited to submit research projects completed within the past 10 years. Submissions should include an abstract summarizing the research, including its objectives, methodology, key findings, and significance. The proposal should also describe how the presentation will discuss the study’s findings, implications, and contributions to research, policy, or practice.
- Current Research | Proposal Presentation (20 minutes)
Presenters are invited to submit research that is currently underway, including projects at the proposal, design, data collection, analysis, or other work-in-progress stages. Submissions should include an abstract outlining the project’s objectives, research questions, methodology, and current stage of development. The proposal should also discuss anticipated or preliminary findings, expected outcomes, and the potential significance and contributions of the research. Presenters will present to a panel and receive feedback.
Proposals must be submitted by 11:59 PM PST on August 16, 20206.
REVIEW OF PROPOSALS
08/17/2026 – 08/31/2026
NOTIFY PRESENTERS
Week of 09/07/2026
PRESENTER MATERIALS DUE
09/15/2026
PRESENTER INFORMATION SESSION(S)
Week of 09/21-25/2026
For questions, please contact symposium@westcliff.edu
CATALYST FOR CHANGE AWARD
Dr. Gulnar Rakhmetulla
This award recognizes the presenter whose research has significant and tangible impact. It focuses on inspiring action, fostering change, or raising awareness about a specific issue or topic, and highlights the importance of research that drives positive change.
TRAILBLAZER AWARD
Dr. Shelley L. Spessard
The Trailblazer Award recognizes originality, forward thinking, and novel methodologies while honoring those who pioneer new paths and challenge conventional norms. This award highlights the presenter’s ability to think outside the box, push boundaries and dares to explore uncharted territory and make a lasting impact.
RESEARCH EXCELLENCE AWARD
Tejal Rangdal
The Research Excellence Award celebrates the ability to generate meaningful insights through research. It also honors individuals who exemplify rigor and precision in their research endeavors, and highlights the presenter’s commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding in their field. This awards rewards the meticulous approach to research and its impact on the broader academic community.