Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Southwestern Studies Undergraduate Research Conference!  Please use the form below to submit an abstract or artist statement for your paper, creative work, or poster.  

An abstract or artist statement is a short summary of the research you plan to present.

Please read all instructions and information carefully. 

Submissions Guidelines and General Information:

  • Research MUST focus regionally on the Southwest. The CSSW understands the Southwest to be inclusive of states and processes linked to the Rio Grande watershed, the Colorado River watershed, the Red River watershed, and northern Mexico.  
  • Students are encouraged to present past research/projects previously used for other coursework, but new research is also welcome.
  • Students can present a paper or a creative work. Students can also mount an artwork or make a poster presentation. Students must choose one format through which they will share their work.
  • All proposals must have a written abstract or artist statement explaining their proposal.
  • Submissions MUST include: paper, poster, or photography/art exhibit, title, student name, and student classification. 
  • Submissions should be no more than 500 words.
  • Paper presentations should be 10-15 minutes in length.
  • Posters cannot exceed 40 inches in width or height, and must be submitted to the CSSW as a PDF or PowerPoint file no later than Friday, March 27, 2026 to allow time for printing. The CSSW will handle all poster printing. 

Important Dates: 

  • Submissions will be accepted from January 1, 2026 to Friday, March 27, 2026.  The submission portal will close at 5:00 pm on Friday, March 27, 2026.
  • Students whose Papers, Posters, and Creative Works have been accepted will be notified as soon as possible upon decision, but no later than Monday, March 30, 2026.
  • The conference will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm.

Prize Information: 

  • Each student whose Paper, Poster, or Creative Work is accepted for the conference AND who then presents their research will receive a $50 prize.  
  • Additional prizes will be award for the best research presentations, creative works, and posters. 
    • 1st place | $100
    • 2nd place | $75
    • 3rd place | $50
  • Papers and Posters will be judged by CSSW staff and associated faculty members. 
  • Students MUST be present at the conference and present their research to be eligible for any prizes. 

Please contact Tammy Gonzales with any questions. 

I have read and understand the above information. *

Student Information

If you do not currently have a minor enter N/A

Presentation Information 

Abstract/Artist Statement Submission 

An abstract or artist statement is a short summary of your work. It should highlight the key points of your work and your contribution to understanding the Southwest.

Please submit using Microsfot Word or Adobe PDF


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