Charles Darwin Continues to Inspire
Ten years after its founding, Darwin Day at Montclair State University continues to honor the past while investing in the next generation of scientists
Posted in: Events
For the past decade, Darwin Day at Montclair State University has celebrated the spirit of scientific discovery while honoring the legacy of Charles Darwin. Funded by the estate of Madelon Wehner (née Grimm, MSU Class of 1939) and sponsored by the Department of Biology and the College of Science and Mathematics, the annual symposium has become a hallmark event highlighting both renowned scientists and emerging student researchers.
Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection transformed biology by demonstrating how species adapt and change over time. More than 150 years later, his ideas continue to shape research across various disciplines, making Darwin Day a fitting tribute to the ongoing pursuit of knowledge.
Montclair’s first Darwin Day symposium set an ambitious tone by welcoming Nobel Laureate Eric Wieschaus. His groundbreaking work on the genetic control of embryonic development reshaped modern biology and his presence established the event’s tradition of bringing world-class scientists to campus.
This year’s keynote speaker, Bruce Carlson, PhD, explored how weakly electric fish distinguish between sensations they create themselves and those coming from the outside world. Studying these fish that communicate using brief electric pulses, Dr. Carlson explained how the brain sends an internal signal at the exact moment a fish produces its own pulse. This signal temporarily quiets certain neurons, preventing the fish from confusing its own signal with one from another fish. His research shows that this precise timing adapted over evolutionary, developmental, and even seasonal changes!
As always, student research remained central to the celebration. Noah Ramadan, Kelly Witters, and Rylee Allen presented their work, demonstrating the depth and diversity of scholarship within the university.
For Kelly Witters, a student in Montclair’s combined five-year BS/MS program in Marine Biology and Coastal Science and a two-year recipient of the Wehner Scholarship, presenting at Darwin Day was both meaningful and motivating. The scholarship allowed her to pursue research on horseshoe crabs, a passion that began with a third-grade school project. It also provided opportunities to participate in conferences, strengthening her skills as a scientist. She shared how opportunities to present are especially valuable as she prepares for her thesis defense, helping her build confidence and refine her communication skills. Reflecting on her journey, she described Montclair State as the best decision I made, crediting her mentor, Dr. Paul Bologna, and the Wehner Scholarship, for opening doors that will shape her future.