Jennifer Lodi-Smith, PhD, (Psychology, CAS) has been awarded a 2015 Mission & Identity Fellowship for her research project, Identity Development in Immersion Experiences.
Dr. Lodi-Smith’s research continues her ongoing work in human identity development. In this project she will focus on the benefits of short-term immersion and semester abroad study programs and their impact on identity/personality formation in young adults.
Both types of student experiences are viewed as transformative in the shaping of students’ experiences and character. Dr. Lodi-Smith hopes her research findings will “catalyze further support and enthusiasm for such learning.” An added feature of her research is the inclusion of student-researchers in her data gathering and analysis.
The Office of Mission & Identity promotes the awareness and deepening of our shared educational values and ideals. Dr. Lodi-Smith’s work engages the Jesuit ideals of service to humanity and becoming men and women for others. It further promotes the real-world experiences that foster these ideals to help form educated and compassionate global citizens here at Canisius.
Submitted by: Michael F. Tunney, S.J., director, Office of Mission & Identity
