Student researchers have an opportunity to present their research at academic conferences across the country. Not only do they get to expose their work to a new audience, but they can also observe other projects outside of MU. “There are plenty of opportunities for students to see what’s happening not only in their own research group, but also in other research groups,” Blockus says. In the past, undergraduate researchers have traveled to major cities including Chicago, San Francisco, and New York City. “That’s a really neat experience,” she explains, “whether it is interacting with other scholars on campus or with scholars across the country or world.”

While teaching in San Francisco, Lampo Leong received a commission to create a huge granite inset medallion (26 feet in diameter) for a public park. During the opening celebrations, “Lampo Leong Day” was declared by the Mayor, a day in November commemorating the work the artist has done for the city. “I am really grateful and honored to have had a day dedicated to me,” says Leong.