Despite a 10-inch snowfall that blanketed the area, Bemidji State University’s 26th annual Student Achievement Conference pressed forward on April 2 with a daylong virtual celebration of student scholarship and creativity.

The event, themed “Create, Innovate, Inspire,” highlighted academic research, creative projects and performances by students from across disciplines. The conference opened with a formal ceremony that included a welcome video from John L. Hoffman, president of Bemidji State and NTC — Bemidji’s Technical College.

Keynote speaker Gary Johnson, former CEO and general manager of Paul Bunyan Communications, addressed students with a message grounded in his 36-year career in telecommunications and community service. Johnson encouraged students to use their talents to lead and innovate, citing the importance of broadband access in rural communities and the future of technology.

The morning featured oral presentations on topics including cancer research, creative writing in education and cultural studies.

Afternoon poster sessions showcased more than 50 student projects, including research on incarceration and maternal health, Native American health disparities, political trends and environmental science.

Standout projects included “Navigating Imposter Syndrome from an Indigenous Lens at a PWI” by Olivia Verley and Taysha Curry, and “The Oppressive Social Determinants Fueling Low Mental Health Among Black Youth in Ramsey County” by Jasmyn Moore. Both were among the seven BSU projects presented at the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda on March 20, where they earned two of the four statewide awards for outstanding posters.

Throughout the day, the Student Achievement Conference remained accessible online through a virtual poster hall hosted on Gather.Town, allowing attendees to explore research and interact with presenters.

Travis Ricks, director of core curriculum, helped coordinate both the on-campus and capitol events. “The purpose of the conference is to highlight students and help them understand they can learn how to create, report and inspire with their work,” Ricks said.

Although the day was filled with academic success and resilience, the scheduled evening recital at the Bangsberg Fine Arts Complex was canceled due to weather conditions.

Snow may have changed the format, but not the energy or enthusiasm. Bemidji State’s students found new ways to connect, collaborate and shine.