The Rural Renewal Symposium and Prizes are designed to raise awareness, attract resources and stimulate research toward solving grand challenges facing rural communities. 

  

This symposium provides a unique opportunity for faculty, students and rural community members from across the U.S. and around the world to connect with others and learn about the latest discoveries, trends and approaches for rural renewal. Corporate partners, non-profit organizations, government and tribal leaders, and anyone with a passion for rural people and places are invited to participate. The symposium includes invited speakers, oral and poster presentations by researchers, round table discussions for community leaders, networking opportunities, and award presentations. The students from the Rural Scholars program describe their studies and present the findings of their research projects.

 

View Slides from the 2023 Rural Renewal Symposium Main Sessions

Main Session 1

Main Session 2

Keynote Address

Main Session 3

Rural Scholar Posters

 

VIEW RECORDINGS FROM THE 2022 RURAL RENEWAL SYMPOSIUM

Symposium Abstracts

Rural Scholar Posters

 

2024 Symposium Information

The fifth annual Rural Renewal Symposium will be hosted in Ardmore, Oklahoma at Lake Murray Lodge on October 8-10, 2024. More information on how to register is coming. 

 

Submit a proposal for oral and poster presentations

 

Rural Renewal Prizes 

A highlight of the symposium is awarding the Rural Renewal Research Prize and the Rural Renewal Citizenship Prize. 

 

The Rural Renewal Research Prize is awarded to a global leader in rural renewal research, education and engagement. The prize is open to individuals employed by colleges, universities or research institutions anywhere in the world, nominated by their colleagues. The prize includes a plaque and a cash award. 

 

Nomination information for the 2024 Rural Renewal Research Prize

 

The Rural Renewal Citizenship Prize is awarded to a leader who has made an important contribution to the renewal of one or more rural communities in Oklahoma. This prize  recognizes a person who shows true leadership qualities, is an exceptional role model, promotes community welfare, and advocates for community needs. The prize includes a plaque and a cash award.

 

Nomination information for the 2024 Rural Renewal Citizenship Prize