This is an invite-only event

Symposium on Rural Life and Institutions

Rural America encompasses diverse communities and experiences, shaped by a wide range of political, economic, social, and environmental forces. The symposium will bring together Stanford students, faculty, staff, and partners whose research and work engage with rural communities across the United States, highlighting perspectives on rural politics, economics, education, community health, culture, the environment, and community resilience. By showcasing this breadth of work, the event will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas, explore connections across disciplines, and encourage new collaborations and research on rural America and the institutions that shape rural life.

Student Poster Session

As part of the symposium, a poster session will highlight Stanford students’ experiences and perspectives on rural communities. Projects may draw from research, service, fieldwork, or efforts to build connections between urban and rural communities. The session will allow students to share their work with a broader Stanford audience and engage in conversation with attendees.

For more information about the poster session and to submit a proposal, visit the submission page.

Symposium on Rural Life and Institutions
November 17, 2026
Time Content Presenters

12:00 P.M. - 1:20 P.M.

Lunch and Opening Plenary Speaker

Michael Perry, Author and Speaker

1:30 P.M. - 2:45 P.M. 

Panel One: Rural Life and Environmental Sustainability

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2:45 P.M. -3:00 P.M.

Break

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3:00 P.M. - 4:15 P.M.

Panel Two: Rural Institutions and Community Health

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4:15 P.M. - 4:30 P.M.

Closing Comments and Calls to Action

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4:30 P.M. - 5:30 P.M.

Poster Session and Reception

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