By Suzy Alstrin
The exceptional work and achievements of Reinhardt University students brought excitement and awe to the annual Robert L. Driscoll Convocation of Artists and Scholars April 1st and 2nd, 2025. Handpicked by professors and deans, students from every discipline showcased their talents and shared their knowledge with proud parents, professors, and classmates.
Performances by 13 students in Flint Hall included an impressive percussion performance by Josh Adams (RU-2027) and Joshua Lete (RU-2028), a stunning vocal performance by Kaylee Rae Traverso (RU-2026), and a powerful theatrical performance by Nathaniel Grisham (RU-2026) and Rose Dickinson (RU-2028).
The Hill Freeman Library and Spruill Learning Center buzzed with the energy of 30 remarkable student presentations and 62 research posters. Dermon Richard’s (RU – 2027) presentation before a packed room explained the impact of sensory processing difficulties on autistic individuals. Lois Mattock (RU-2026) impressed the audience with her research on pain tolerance differences between athletes and non-athletes, as did Keith Hudson’s (RU – 2027) research on water quality in local wells. Other students delved into history, business, and internships. “It was inspiring to see students engage with a wider audience beyond just their professors,” remarked Dr. Christopher Robinson, professor of psychology.”
Students in nursing, math, science, and the scholars’ programs participated in the poster sessions. Dr. Amy Cottrill, director of the Diverse Talents and Scholars’ Program, challenged sophomores in the program to create posters that reflected their personal growth at this midway point in their college experience. She beamed, “I am proud of how students are able to examine what they’ve done at Reinhardt, figure out why it’s significant to them, and make plans about how they’re going to make use of their development in the future. It’s exciting.” Oliva Fields (RU-2027) appreciated the assignment, “We’re showing how Reinhardt affected us as people and our academic journeys. I think it’s important for other people to see that.”
Ultimately, the Convocation served as a celebration of the outstanding learning and personal growth taking place at the University, underscoring the commitment of students to their academic and professional futures.
