Centering Students Through Undergraduate Research (Part 1) - On Campus Podcast

In this episode of On Campus, we dive into the power of undergraduate research as a catalyst for student engagement. Host Ed Butch and special guest co-host Alexa McClellan (of CITI Program’s On Research podcast) welcome Dr. Lisa Piazza, Executive Director of the Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavor at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. 

Together, they explore how research experiences—especially in the early college years—can ignite curiosity, develop critical thinking, and help students connect more deeply with their education. Dr. Piazza shares her own journey, the value of mentorship, and how research can empower students to find their voice, regardless of major or background. It’s a conversation that reimagines how institutions can engage undergraduates in transformative ways. 

Additional Resources 

• On Research Podcast - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2112707  
• CITI Program’s Research Foundations Solution: https://about.citiprogram.org/solutions/research-foundations/  

Chapters

• 0:06 Introduction and Episode Them
• 0:49 Alexa’s Introduction and Podcast Plug
• 1:25 Welcoming Dr. Lisa Piazza
• 1:46 Dr. Piazza’s Academic and Career Journey
• 7:01 Transition to UTC and Building the Office
• 9:22 Current Role and Office Programs Overview
• 10:32 Work Study and International Research Programs
• 12:47 Summer Learning Institute and Student Engagement
• 14:03 Conferences and Workshops
• 15:28 Mission of Accessibility and Support
• 17:49 What Sparked Dr. Piazza’s Interest in Undergraduate Research
• 19:12 Expanding Research Beyond STEM
• 20:21 Impact of Early Engagement in Research
• 22:44 Ensuring Accessibility for All Students
• 25:07 Closing and Teaser for Part Two