Welcome to IDEA
The Grainger College of Engineering
Dean's Distinguished Lecture Luncheon and IDEA Institute Symposium
Monday, April 27th, 2026 . Illini Union Ballroom12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. |
The IDEA Institute is pleased to announce the 2026 Dean's Distinguished Lecture Luncheon and IDEA Institute Symposium. This event features a keynote seminar from Dr. Bevlee Watford and a poster session to showcase research of the Grassroots Initiatives to Address Needs Together (GIANT) project teams. Lunch will be provided to registered attendees. Please complete the registration and confirm your attendance by Wednesday, April 22, 2026.
Keynote Speaker: Bevlee Watford, Ph.D., P.E.
Professor Emerita, Engineering Education and Executive Director Emerita, CEED
Virginia Tech
Engineering Our Future: Pathways, Policies, and Access
This talk examines how shifts in policy regarding broadening participation —from its origins in the 1960s to the 2023 Supreme Court decision—have shaped access to engineering and computing pathways. Using national data and historical trends, it highlights the impact of these policy changes on enrollment, workforce development, and the nation’s technical talent pipeline. The session outlines how educators and institutions have adapted through new pathways, evidence‑based retention strategies, and race‑neutral but equity‑driven approaches. It concludes with forward‑looking strategies for strengthening access to engineering in ways that support innovation, competitiveness, and broad participation.
Schedule of Events
12:00 PM Lunch Begins
12:20 PM Welcome and Introduction of Speaker
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Keynote Address
1:30 PM - 1:35 PM Closing Remarks
1:35 PM - 1:45 PM Networking
1:45 PM - 2:45 PM Poster Session
2:45 PM - 3:00 PM Networking/Conclusion
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