Reimagining Research: Conversations on Expanding Your Research’s Reach

Session Submission Type: Roundtable Session

Abstract

In an era where public discourse is increasingly polarized, scholars have a critical role to play in
bridging divides and fostering productive action. Yet, traditional academic publishing is often
limited to academic circles, reinforcing barriers between scholars and the communities their
work aims to serve. This special session responds to the conference theme, Civil Literacies:
Cultivating Productive Action Across Differences and Divides, by exploring how dissertations
and other forms of research can be translated and mobilized to engage broader audiences, inform
public discourse, and contribute to meaningful societal change.
Designed for doctoral students and early career scholars, this session provides a space to discuss
tangible strategies for repurposing dissertation research not only in ways that promote civil
literacies, public engagement, and interdisciplinary dialogue but also a foundational guide to help
those find their footing as they enter the world of academia. Participants will leave with concrete
next steps for leveraging their work in and beyond academia, making their scholarship more
accessible, responsive, and impactful.

Content Area

• LRA Annual Conference

Chairs

• Diana Murtaugh, Binghamton University

• Darlshawn Patterson, University of South Florida