Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program Hosts Tenth Annual Inclusion Symposium

Cultivating Connection in a Disconnected World was the theme of this year’s day-long program, which featured student stories, panel discussions and a keynote address by communications strategist Leo Caldwell

 

The Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program’s (KCGIP) 10th Annual Inclusion Symposium brought together students, alumni, faculty, and program partners for a day of reflection, learning, and meaningful conversation centered on this year’s theme, “Cultivating Connection in a Disconnected World.” Through powerful student stories, engaging panel discussions, and an inspiring keynote address by Leo Caldwell, the symposium invited participants to explore how meaningful relationships, diverse perspectives, and a shared sense of belonging can create stronger, more connected communities.

Smiling grouop of peole in auditorium, each holding hands held together to mimic Oregon O
Featured student presenters, panelists and other speakers during the 2026 KCGIP Inclusion Symposium 

For KCGIP alumna Shelby Shackelford, the symposium was a reminder of the impact that intentional spaces for dialogue and inclusion can have on the scientific community. 

“This year’s theme, ‘Cultivating Connection in a Disconnected World’ was especially meaningful,” Shackelford said. “It was inspiring to be part of such an important conversation and to see the continued commitment to fostering a more inclusive and connected scientific community.”

KCGIP semiconductor student and Inclusion Symposium Student Storyteller, Renee Chapla, described the symposium as unlike anything she had experienced before. 

“It was a full program of sharing experiences and also learning about the experiences of others that I’d never heard of before,” Chapla said. “It truly made me feel connected to people I’ve interacted with little in the past.”

As the symposium celebrated its tenth year, the program underscored the message that inclusion, belonging, and meaningful connection remain important ingredients for building stronger communities, both within science and beyond and keynote speaker Leo Caldwell punctuated those central themes. 

“Be intentional with our fight, and be intentional with our love,” Caldwell said.

For more information about this year’s Inclusion Symposium, guest panelists and speakers: https://knightcampus.uoregon.edu/2026-inclusion-symposium