The Brock Community is invited to an online panel discussion focused on keeping research relevant.

Hosted by the Brock Joint PhD in Educational Studies program, the third and final virtual event in the Leading in Times of Change series takes place Thursday, March 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. The theme for the discussion is “Keeping Research Relevant: Collaboration, Engagement and Community.”

“The final theme was selected to invite the scholarly community to reflect on the benefits of collaborative research and the relevance of research to participants and communities,” said William Ankomah, a doctoral candidate and Co-Chair of the Education Graduate Students’ Society (EGSS).

The evening will include a virtual panel discussion by faculty and doctoral students in the program, followed by small breakout group discussions allowing faculty, staff, students and alumni to connect with peers and colleagues.

“Many graduate students are feeling isolated as we all work from home,” said Karen Julien, a doctoral candidate and Co-Chair of EGSS. “This series is presenting us with the opportunity to connect with faculty and with our fellow students as we learn about each other’s research interests and discuss important topics.”

The series, which began last fall, has also provided valuable experience for student members of the organizing committee who have helped to make the events a success.

“Working with this committee allowed me to stay connected to faculty, alumni and current students, which is significant for the academic pathway,” said Rakha Zabin, a doctoral student. Zabin began her doctoral journey during the COVID-19 pandemic and found it challenging to build connections as a new student.

“It has been more remarkable because of the invaluable mentorship I have received that immensely helped me nurture my leadership qualities connected to my research in the field of policy and leadership,” Zabin said.

The overall theme of the series, Leading in Times of Change, was chosen to engage participants in discussions about relevant issues in changing times, including challenges and possibilities of social justice, the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

To register for the panel discussions, visit the Joint PhD web page.

Brock’s Faculty of Education is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Joint PhD in Educational Studies program this year. The Joint PhD is a partnership between Brock University, Lakehead University and the University of Windsor.