Experiential Learning Today Develops the Leaders of Tomorrow: 2023 Projects Day

More than 1,000 cadets from all academic departments took part in West Point’s 24th Annual Projects Day Research Symposium in May, displaying research posters, giving presentations, and defending theses. “Projects Day is an incredible platform for our cadets to showcase their ingenuity, innovation, and problem-solving skills,” said Brigadier General Shane Reeves ’96, 15th Dean of the Academic Board. “Through this event, we empower our future Army leaders to take on complex challenges, adapt to new technologies and situations, and advance the mission of the U.S. Army.” From the Kimsey Center to Eisenhower Hall and from the West Point Club to Thayer Hall, more than 400 rigorous and robust research projects were featured on Projects Day, demonstrating the Academy’s belief in experiential learning and indicating how different the academic program is today than 10 or 20 years ago. “All you have to do is walk around post and you’ll see the incredible excellence of our cadets and the powerful combination of cadet education, development, and research at West Point, much of it funded by Margin of Excellence dollars generously donated by our graduates,” said Reeves. “By providing our cadets with these hands-on experiences, we prepare them to excel in complex and unpredictable environments and to lead with confidence, competence, and character.” 