Conferences are the lifeblood of academia. They provide a space for researchers, educators, and professionals to exchange ideas, showcase new findings, and form lasting collaborations. The Society of North American Scholars (SNAS) is doing just that—creating a platform where interdisciplinary research thrives.

A Growing Tradition of Excellence 

Although relatively new, SNAS has already made a notable impact with three successful conferences—each evolving in scope and significance. What sets SNAS apart is its dedication to fostering academic exchanges with a broader societal impact. Unlike many conventional conferences that confine themselves to narrow academic tracks, SNAS focuses on bringing together researchers from different fields to tackle complex, real-world challenges. This approach allows scholars to collaborate across disciplines in ways that generate actionable insights and spark creative solutions. The conferences are not just about individual achievement but about building a community committed to positive social change. As SNAS continues to grow, so does its influence, with each annual event raising the bar for interdisciplinary research and collaboration.

The Inaugural SNAS Conference: Setting a Strong Foundation

The first SNAS Interdisciplinary Research Conference, held on October 8, 2022, marked the launch of what has now become a well-regarded tradition. This inaugural event set the tone by welcoming scholars across various domains, including social sciences, humanities, business, technology, and environmental studies. Its purpose was clear: to break down silos and promote collaboration. The focus was not only on presenting research but also on finding ways that research could influence societal development.  The conference theme was “Balancing Rigor and Relevance: The Role of Social Impact in Academic Research.”

Participants from diverse institutions and countries joined this online conference, setting an early precedent for SNAS’s inclusive and global outlook. Whether it was discussions about sustainable development, economic inequalities, or emerging technologies, the inaugural conference demonstrated SNAS’s commitment to high-impact research. The highlight of the day was the inspiring keynote address (Equity on College Campuses and Its Impact on Research – on YouTube) given by Dr. Elsa Nunez, the president of Eastern Connecticut State University. One unique aspect that attendees immediately noticed was the emphasis on dialogue rather than formalities. Traditional paper presentations were paired with interactive panels and networking sessions that encouraged participants to brainstorm solutions together. This collaborative spirit remains one of SNAS’s core strengths.

Building Momentum: The Second SNAS Conference

Building on the success of its first event, SNAS hosted its second interdisciplinary research conference in the historic Hennessy Hall of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ on Friday, October 6, 2023. This edition drew an even larger audience and featured more diverse research topics. A highlight of this first onsite conference, titled “Defining the Future: Research, Technology, and Innovation” was the keynote address by Dr. Mike Hind, a Distinguished Research Staff Member of IBM Research, on Trustworthy AI: Challenges and Opportunities. The agenda included sessions on climate change, digital transformation, healthcare innovations, and equity in education. The conference emphasized how interdisciplinary solutions can address challenges that transcend national and sectoral boundaries.

SNAS also welcomed more industry partners and practitioners, reflecting its commitment to bridging the gap between research and practice. This blend of academic and professional perspectives not only enriched the discussions but also led to real-world applications of many research ideas presented during the conference. The second SNAS conference was widely praised for its inclusivity. From early-career scholars to senior academics, everyone had a platform to contribute and collaborate. Attendees walked away not just with new knowledge but also with expanded professional networks and potential research partnerships.

2024 Conference: A Milestone in Interdisciplinary Collaboration

The 2024 SNAS Interdisciplinary Research Conference, held on October 11 at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, CT, was a resounding success. With the theme The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Higher Education, the conference explored the profound ways AI is reshaping academic institutions, teaching methods, and student experiences. Scholars from across the U.S. and abroad attended, reflecting the event’s growing national and international participation and reinforcing SNAS’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across borders.

The highlight of the event was the special session titled “AI Innovation & Accountability: Navigating Opportunities and Risks,” led by Monsurat Ottun, Cyber Security Advisor at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This thought-provoking session delved into the dual nature of AI—its immense potential to drive innovation, paired with the urgent need to address its risks. This year’s conference also introduced an exciting new feature: research sessions for high school and college students, giving young scholars the opportunity to present alongside established academics. These sessions were a conference highlight, offering fresh perspectives and demonstrating SNAS’s dedication to fostering the next generation of researchers. Attendees appreciated the chance to engage with emerging talent and explore innovative ideas from students passionate about AI, education, and technology.

In its third year, the 2024 SNAS Interdisciplinary Research Conference has cemented its place as a premier platform for interdisciplinary dialogue. The combination of forward-thinking themes, dynamic sessions, and inclusive participation continues to attract a growing and diverse audience. Each year, SNAS builds on its success, ensuring that the conference remains relevant and impactful. With thought-provoking topics like AI’s role in education, practical insights from industry experts, and opportunities for scholars at all levels, SNAS has quickly become a can’t-miss event in the academic calendar. Scholars already have commitments to other prestigious or field-specific events. As the “second” conference you never want to miss, SNAS aims to be the reliable, interdisciplinary platform that complements those other commitments and allows you to spread your research to a wider audience—a place you return to year after year.

Join the SNAS Movement 

The rapid success and growth of the SNAS conferences demonstrate that there is a real need for interdisciplinary platforms focused on societal impact. As SNAS prepares for its 2025 conference, it invites scholars from all backgrounds to join the movement. Whether you’re presenting groundbreaking research, seeking collaborators, or simply looking to expand your network, SNAS offers a space where meaningful connections happen, and ideas come to life. Become a SNAS member here and stay in the know!

Omer Topaloglu, Ph.D.

Former SNAS President & Professor of Marketing at Fairleigh Dickinson University