The first Academic Symposium at Saint Peter’s known then as the “Poster Day,” originated under the guidance of Dr. Laura Twersky and the TriBeta Biological Honors Society president Amira Roess, and in collaboration with Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Bender.

The inaugural event, held on April 29, 1998, took place in the university’s gymnasium. Its primary focus was on the presentation of academic posters, showcasing the research endeavors and scholarly pursuits of students and faculty alike. This first iteration of the symposium served as a platform for the dissemination of knowledge and the celebration of academic achievements within the Saint Peter’s University community.

As the years progressed, the symposium evolved. The fourth installment of the event marked a significant milestone in its development; the event transitioned from being solely a “Poster Day” to a more encompassing “Poster Symposium.” However, the name “Poster Symposium” didn’t quite capture the essence and depth of the event. It was felt that the term “symposium” better encapsulated the spirit of scholarly discourse and intellectual engagement that characterized the event. Consequently, the name was changed to the “Academic Symposium,” reflecting its evolution into a comprehensive platform for academic exchange.

Over the years, the Academic Symposium continued to flourish, attracting increasing participation from students, faculty, and research across diverse disciplines. It became a staple event in the university’s academic calendar, fostering collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Despite the growth and evolution of the symposium, the core values remained– to promote academic excellence, foster intellectual curiosesity, and celebrate the scholarly achievements of the Saint Peter’s University community. From its humble beginnings as “Poster Day” to its transformation into the esteemed “Academic Symposium,” this event stands as a testament to the enduring commitment to academic inquiry and intellectual discourse at Saint Peter’s University.