The annual Keuka College Expo (KCx) once again highlighted the power of hands-on learning, serving as the centerpiece of a Spring Weekend that celebrated student achievement across academics, the arts, and campus life. Held at the College’s Lightner Library, the event brought together students, faculty, staff, and guests to explore the real-world opportunities that define a Keuka College education.
“Keuka College has a robust history of prioritizing experiential learning, with over 80 years of experience in this area. I always look forward to this event because I can learn from our students’ posters and presentations about the knowledge they’ve gained through experiential learning,”
From research presentations and senior capstone projects to creative works and panel discussions, KCx offered a forum for students to demonstrate how they apply what they learn in the classroom to meaningful, real-world opportunities. The connection between theory and practice was evident throughout the Expo.
Senior Biology major Dylin Whitney explored environmental misconceptions in his seminar project, “Debunking the Myth: Are Electric Vehicles Bad for the Environment?” He said real-world learning opportunities made all the difference in his education and cited his Field Period® placements as helping clarify his career path.
“I shadowed a physician assistant, and that was very helpful. It put me in the healthcare environment I want to be in and gave me that experience. It definitely showed me what I want to do.”
Experiential learning also plays a critical role in preparing students like Daric Frech, a senior Political Science and History major, for careers in public service. His tabletop display investigating political ideological influences was informed in part by his summer 2025 Field Period placement in Washington, D.C.
“Field Period has really added to my education by giving me insight into what it takes to work in politics,” said Daric, who has his sights set on a legislative career in Washington after he graduates in December. “When I eventually move to D.C., I’ll know exactly what I’ll be doing, and what it takes to do that.”
Biology major Jonathan Collichio delved into the topic of seasonal depre4ssion for his poster presentation. Scores of students presented posters based on class projects, independent study, and Field Period explorations.
For future educator Tre Lloyd, time spent substitute teaching in the Penn Yan Central School District helped build confidence in the classroom.
“A big steppingstone is actually teaching,” he said. “That opportunity really improved my skills.”
For fellow Biology major Skylar Maynard, hands-on learning led to a change in direction. Initially interested in veterinary medicine, she developed a strong interest in forensic anthropology after hands-on work with the College’s human remains collection.
“That’s where I found my true passion,” she said.
Her senior research project examined the health claims of juice cleanses, applying critical thinking and scientific literacy to a topic often shaped by misinformation.
“These cleanses actually do the opposite of what they claim,” she said. “A balanced, whole-food diet is safer and more reliable.”
Senior Art & Design major Laura Barrett shared a whole lot of appreciation — and her artistry — during the Expo
KCx also showcased the creativity of Keuka College students. Senior Art & Design major Laura Barrett displayed more than 120 colorful hand-crafted glass flowers and vases, each carrying a simple message: “You are appreciated.”
“It’s worth it to make people happy,” she said.
Laura plans to continue her studies as she works toward becoming a high school art teacher.
‘Building Relationships’
The Expo’s keynote speaker, Dr. Kathleen Clarke-Anderson ’83, reinforced the value of experiential learning through her own story. Drawing on her Field Period placements – in placements ranging from New Jersey to Scotland – she described how early, hands-on opportunities shaped her career.
Dr. Kathleen Clarke-Anderson ’83 spoke fondly of her Keuka College days while delivering the Expo's Keynote Address. “My whole, entire life has been based on what I learned here," she said. "And I can truly say, with all of my heart, that the four years I spent at Keuka College were the most important years of my life.”
“The first job I went for, I immediately got,” she said. “And the reason why I immediately got it was because I had 40 weeks of experience already.”
A clinical supervisor and professor in residence at William Paterson University in New Jersey, Dr. Clarke-Anderson emphasized that her Field Period placements were about more than skill-building.
“Throughout all of my Field Periods, it was about building relationships,” she said. “That’s what has helped me become an advocate for students.”
She also highlighted the strength of the Keuka College alumni network, recalling how fellow graduates supported her during her own Field Period.
“It was the most wonderful, comforting thing,” she said. “I hope I can do that for one of you someday.”
Her advice to students was simple: “Always join the team. Work with others and build relationships.”
Additional Highlights
In other events during the College’s Spring Weekend:
▶ Dozens of students were honored for academic and service achievements during the annual Honors Convocation. Awards and scholarships were bestowed in each of the College’s academic divisions, along with special awards for scholarship and student leadership. During the ceremony, students heard from Board Chair Dr. Twyla J. Cummings, President Storey, and Sigma Lambda Sigma Honor Society President Grace Eagan.
▶ The annual Nursing, Pinning, White Coat, and Induction Ceremony honored the College’s undergraduate and graduate nursing students. Individual awards were presented, as well as the induction of 11 students into the Upsilon Upsilon Chapter of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society.
▶ A student fashion show and dance showcase, along with yard games and a Saturday night fireworks display, added to the festivity of the weekend.
