Megan Widner of Midwestern State University had an opportunity Tuesday to present her undergraduate research project before legislators and the public through the 2021 “Texas Undergraduate Research Day” virtual event, hosted by CPUPC (Council of Public University Presidents & Chancellors) and ICUT (Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas).

The theme for the event was Transforming Texas Through Undergraduate Research. There were 60 research projects displayed representing 47 college, university, and health science center programs.

Widner’s Fall 2020 EURECA project researched tourism development from Back to Space’s proposed Lunar Landscape Experience educational park in Jacksboro, Texas. Widner was inspired by Ralph Widner, who worked at the U.S. Naval Space Command Space Surveillance System for 30 years. She also noted that without the contributions of Dr. Jeff Stambaugh, dean of the Dillard College of Business Administration, the research would not have been possible.

“Through this experience, the hope is to share the impacts undergraduate research can have locally, and inspire the upcoming classes to participate in such a rewarding and impactful experience and opportunities that can come with it,” Widner said. “Students worldwide benefit from the excellent education that Midwestern State University provides, with alumni globally positively impacting their local communities and countries. To represent MSU at the capitol is such an honor, especially during a turbulent time. When first participating in EURECA as the first group of emerging research in fall 2020, it was unimaginable on doors it has opened, the company, town, and community that would benefit through a real-life application of undergraduate research.”