Governors State University is taking center stage at the 97th Annual Meeting of the Midwestern Psychological Association (MPA) in Chicago held at the historic Palmer House Hilton from April 10–12.

The conference welcomes professionals, researchers, and students from across the country to share innovative work in psychological science.

Among this year’s featured presenters is a dynamic team from GSU, including faculty and students, who will lead a panel titled “No Funding, No Problem: Why Nonfunded Students Choose Research.” This session, scheduled for April 10 from 3 –3:50 p.m., offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to conduct meaningful research without institutional funding—and why that effort matters.

The GovState team is led by Dr. Alli Cipra and includes student researchers Kelly Rosenthal, Jessica Beckmann, Megan Rodgers, Alyssa Voss, Grace Meeks, and Emily Gagliano.

The session is part of the Professional Development track and is designed to inspire faculty and students at teaching-focused colleges to build research opportunities even in underfunded environments. The format is interactive, with room for audience questions and live discussion.

Topics will include:

• Strategies for starting and sustaining research labs without funding

• How to motivate and engage students in research

• Honest student perspectives on what worked—and what didn’t—in their research journeys

• Tips for faculty on increasing collaboration with students

• Building a lab culture and setting short- and long-term goals

This session is especially relevant to students and faculty at smaller or teaching-focused institutions, where research often takes a backseat due to lack of resources. The team will prove that with passion and commitment, research can thrive anywhere.

The Midwestern Psychological Association conference is a major event that draws scholars and professionals from across the country. Attending MPA provides students with an opportunity to:

• Present and engage with current psychological research

• Network with peers, grad schools, and mentors

• Learn about careers in psychology and academia

• Represent Governor State University on a national stage

Even if you’re not presenting, attending MPA can be a huge step forward in your academic and professional journey.

How to Attend

Register here: MPA 2025 Conference Registration
️ Student rates are available—be sure to register early!

Location: Palmer House Hilton
17 E Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60603

Travel Tip:
The Metra Electric Line from University Park has a stop at Jackson and Monroe streets, just steps from the conference venue.

Driving? Use SpotHero or ParkWhiz to reserve cheaper parking near the Palmer House. Carpooling with other students is also a smart move.

For Governors State students, this panel isn’t just about showcasing our own work—it’s a call to action. It shows that you don’t need to have funding or flashy labs to do meaningful research. You need curiosity, effort, and mentorship. This is your chance to see what research looks like in the real world—and maybe imagine your own place in it.

Support your fellow Jaguars, learn from national experts, and bring that energy back to GSU.