MCLA to Host the 22nd Annual Undergraduate Research Conference

08:00AM / Wednesday, April 03, 2024Print Story | Email Story

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — On Thursday, April 18, 2024, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will hold the 22nd annual Undergraduate Research Conference (URC) to recognize students for their work and dedication in producing academic projects.

This year's keynote speaker is MCLA alumnus Deven Philbrick '16 – a poet and PhD Candidate in English Language and Literature at the University of Michigan. Philbrick earned his bachelor's in English/Communications & Philosophy with a double major in Literature and Writing concentrations from MCLA, then received a master's degree in creative writing from the University of Seattle-Washington in 2018. Currently, he is working on a dissertation on 20th-century innovative poetry and process philosophy.

The full-day event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a poster session at 11 a.m. and the keynote speaker and lunch at noon. Additional event schedules and locations are forthcoming.

"Undergraduate research is a value that underlies the mission of MCLA because it promotes excellence and innovation, creativity and critical thinking, service, and citizenship," said Graziana D'Elia-Brillante, URC chair and professor of modern languages at MCLA. "It is a transformative experience that transcends traditional classroom learning, offering students a profound journey of personal and intellectual growth going beyond textbooks, so students delve deeply into their chosen field, fostering a deeper understanding of concepts and methodologies."

Students will present 15-minute talks, posters, and artistic work; the URC will also include special sessions and events focused on specific themes and performances. Members of the media are welcome to cover this MCLA community event, sit in on virtual talks, and interview students and faculty members.

"Furthermore, undergraduate research nurtures a sense of independence and self-reliance, as students take ownership of their projects from conception to completion. This autonomy not only builds confidence but also instills a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence," said D'Elia-Brillante.

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Green River Financial to Award $1K in Grants to North County Teachers

10:29AM / Wednesday, September 16, 2026

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Green River Financial Services is partnering with iBerkshires.com to launch the Green River Financial Services Classroom Grant Program, which will award a total of $1,000 to two North County teachers to help fund classroom projects or educational initiatives.

Two teachers will each receive a $500 Classroom Grant.

Teachers may apply beginning Sept. 15, 2026, through Oct. 13, 2026. The program is open to teachers working in public schools in North Adams, Williamstown, Adams, Cheshire, Clarksburg, Florida, New Ashford, Hancock and Savoy.

The grants are designed to help local educators bring ideas to life that will directly benefit their students. Teachers can apply for funding for classroom supplies, books, educational materials, hands-on learning activities, technology, enrichment programs or other classroom projects.

Green River Financial Services President and CEO Rob Abel said the program is an opportunity for the company to directly support local educators and the students they serve.

"Teachers are constantly finding creative ways to make learning more engaging and meaningful for their students, and many times they are doing that with limited resources," Abel said. "At Green River Financial Services, we believe investing in our local schools and educators is an investment in the future of our communities. By awarding two $500 grants, we're excited to help two local teachers turn great ideas into projects that can make a real difference for their students."

The application process is designed to be simple. Teachers will be asked to briefly describe their proposed project and explain how it would benefit their students.

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