Forces Reshaping the World
McDonnell Academy Global Research Symposium
Washington University in St. Louis hosted the 2023 McDonnell International Scholars Academy Global Research Symposium: Forces Reshaping the World Oct. 5-7, 2023.
Visit Flickr page to view photo gallery
Interactive Symposium Highlights brochure for more details
Download the Highlights PDF
Setting the Stage
Welcome to the McDonnell Academy Symposium Highlights
The Keynote
Vice Admiral Frank D. Whitworth, Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), delivered the opening keynote address. He discussed the history and mission of the NGA, and the role of geospatial methods in understanding the “Forces Reshaping the World.”
Watch the keynote
Every modern challenge has geography at its core. Every person with a cellphone has a sense of geospatial location.
Vice Admiral Frank Whitworth Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
Sowing Impactful Projects
The 2023 Global Research Symposium, Forces Reshaping the World, convened collaborators from WashU and their international partners to explore pressing issues of common concern. The Symposium featured the work of seed grant awardees who have received funding from the McDonnell International Scholars Academy and its campus partners over the last three years in areas that align with the university’s “Here & Next” strategic plan.
More about seed grants
The impact of the Academy’s Global Incubator Seed Grants program has resulted in more than a nine-fold return on investment – more than $12 million in additional external funding secured by WashU faculty as a result of this initiative.
Laura Benoist Director, McDonnell International Scholars AcademyHighlighting Themes
The Symposium featured plenaries on research in particular themes and discussions about how research universities can foster the collaborative efforts required to address complex global challenges.
Discover the takeaways and learn more about the symposium highlights by selecting a theme below.
McDonnell Scholars share insightful stories
In the course of the three-day Global Research Symposium, our Scholars presented compelling narratives that showcased a wide range of perspectives, representing the diversity, experiences, and interests of our Scholars.
Competition Winners Celebrate Recognition and Awards
3MT® Competition Unveils Student Research; Forces Reshaping the World Photo Contest Captures the Essence of our Inspiring Themes.
View Our Winners