School of Communications seniors from Howard University’s Annenberg Honors Program attended the National Collegiate Research Conference (NCRC) last weekend . They presented their theses on various topics and highlighted the importance of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) representation in collegiate research circles.
Harvard University hosted the 2026 NCRC, which is the largest undergraduate research conference in the country. There was a wide range of subjects covered, and the students’ communications-centered background did not stop them from contributing to the world of STEM.
Lauryn Hash, a senior honors legal communications major from Roanoke, Virginia, serves as the president for the Annenberg Honors Program. She spoke to the importance of being confident in their work even on a national stage.
“Never hesitate to take up space,” Hash said. “You belong in every room you enter.”
The conference also included panel discussions led by experts in fields such as medicine, media and artificial intelligence, as well as student oral presentations.
“We were still able to bring a different perspective to the conference, which was well-appreciated by other attendees,” Hash said.
Howard students attend National Collegiate Research Conference (Photo courtesy of Gillian “Bantu” Joseph) 
Howard students attend National Collegiate Research Conference (Photo courtesy of Gillian “Bantu” Joseph) 
Howard students attend National Collegiate Research Conference (Photo courtesy of Gillian “Bantu” Joseph)
According to Harvard’s official website, the NCRC promotes the growth of a national undergraduate research community by facilitating communication, collaboration and identity for undergraduate students in the global research sphere.
“I examined how intersectionality shapes the portrayal of Black women across various forms of pop culture, including film, television and music,” Hash said.
Hash presented this research topic with the title, “Seen but Misunderstood: An Intersectional Analysis of the Portrayal of Black Women within Pop Culture.”
“My work explores recurring stereotypes, patterns of marginalization and moments of resistance, while emphasizing the importance of nuanced and authentic representation,” Hash said.
She explained that the study aims to contribute to broader conversations surrounding media accountability, cultural narratives and the lived experiences of Black women.
Another student, Shani Smith, a senior honors public relations student from Windsor, Connecticut, shared what the Annenberg Honors Program means to her.
“This program has deeply shaped my understanding of my own scholarship and my role as a researcher,” Smith said.
Smith served as a poster presenter at the conference, and described it as a collaborative process rather than an individual.
“There were three poster sessions, each featuring over 75 presenters,” Smith said. “Attendees were able to walk through the sessions, engage directly with presenters, and learn about a wide range of undergraduate research.”
Smith also mentioned how the conference was organized by Harvard undergraduate students who served as judges.
“I have really enjoyed developing my research alongside the Annenberg Honors senior cohort, and collaboration is a core part of our program,” Smith said.
“We regularly participate in peer review sessions, exchange feedback and refine our ideas together,” Smith said.
Robert Hill, a senior honors broadcast journalism major from Kansas City, Missouri said the conference provided a safe space to share research and an opportunity to experience new perspectives.
“Being at Harvard, intertwined with other PWI (predominantly white institution) students, was an interesting experience because I got to see how other students think, speak and present their research,” he said.
Hill says that his presentation was on how advanced technology is disrupting the media and entertainment industry without adequate regulations and safeguards.
“Within it, it discusses the contributions AI will bring and the challenges if there are no heavy regulations around AI,” Hill said.
He shared that although the demographics of the conference were different than at Howard, there was a space to connect with people about research topics they were truly passionate about. Hash echoed that claim.
“Being at Harvard and interacting with students from PWIs was enriching and also shed light on the value of perspective,” Hash said.
Hill added how important it is to be yourself in these spaces.
“Showing up as your best, authentic self is key, no matter the circumstances or challenges,” Hill said.
Smith shares her experience while being at Harvard.
“There was a noticeable shift when we entered the room, but I am incredibly proud of how we represented ourselves, our honors program, and Howard University,” Smith said.
“Because the conference was heavily STEM focused, many attendees were especially interested in our communication-based research,” Smith said. “I am certain we left a lasting impression.”
The seniors shared their last regard about the conference and how that applies to the whole student body.
“To us, showing up in spaces like these reinforces that HBCU students are 10 times as gifted as the next, and that we have a lot to offer in any environment we enter,” Hill said.
Overall, the students gained valuable lessons and experiences that resonate with all students.
“It is important for HBCU students to show up in these spaces because our scholarship, perspectives and excellence deserve to be visible and showcased at every level of academia,” Hash said.
“Howard has truly prepared me to remain self-assured in every room. My message to other students is to own that preparation,” Smith said. “Carry yourself with confidence and academic prowess because you’ve earned it,” Smith concluded.
Copy edited by D’Nyah Jefferson – Philmore
