Community Engagement Group Meeting

The USETDA Community Engagement Group was founded in 2021 to continue important conversations among members outside of the yearly conference. This group focuses on identifying opportunities for members to learn more about important topics in the ever-changing thesis landscape, promoting professional development among members, and creating a space for networking. Themes we will consider include:

  • exploring resources and tools to help us advise students and other university stakeholders;
  • building connections throughout campus to support the student experience;
  • learning tips for navigating campus policies and processes, starting conversations, and recommending changes;
  • considering the changing role of thesis reviewers in the graduate school and/or library and advocating for the professionalization of the role; and
  • creating a supportive community among ETD professionals that promotes self-advocacy and self-care.

Our bimonthly meetings may vary in format, with some being led by USETDA members and others featuring invited guests. Anyone interested in suggesting a topic or signing up to participate in the group should complete this form. If you have questions please contact us at info@usetda.org.

Call for Proposals – Deadline Extended

There is still time to showcase your work at the USETDA 2026 Conference—the proposal deadline has been extended through May 31, 2026. We welcome submissions for posters, extended presentations, flash talks, panel discussions, tutorials, and workshops. This premier national event is a great opportunity to highlight your ideas, projects, and innovations while connecting with colleagues from peer institution libraries and graduate schools. Join us for this dynamic hybrid conference, taking place September 23–25, 2026, in person at the Renaissance Hotel in Toledo, Ohio, or online from anywhere. Submit your proposal today at https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=usetda2026. We can’t wait to see what you’ll share!

ETD Formatting Users’ Group, May Edition

Join us for the May session of the Formatting Users’ Group, which will take place at 2:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. In this installation, we’ll be talking about Accessibility in formatting, particularly since the ADA Title II deadline has been extended to April 26, 2027. Where are you in that process? If you’re completely done, what tips can you share? If you’re just starting, what are your concerns?

To participate in user group discussions, you should complete this form. If you have questions, please contact Sally Evans at sevans13@gmu.edu.

Group of students in a classroom discussing thesis formatting with posters and laptops