PERU - The Peru State College Social Science Club and Phi Alpha Theta Chapter recently embarked on an enriching trip to Washington, D.C., where three students presented original research at the 2025 Biennial Phi Alpha Theta National Conference.

Lukas Hrabik (Louisville, NE) presented "White Citizens Councils and the Blueprint for Segregated Education in the South," a paper developed for his African American history course. His work was inspired by the department’s Civil Rights Tour during last spring’s midterm break.

Caleb Kozeny (Louisville, NE) shared "An Analysis of Why Nyerere’s Ujamaa Program in Tanzania Failed," which stemmed from his Modern Africa history course in the fall.

Faith Reynolds (Nebraska City, NE) presented "Mexican Repatriations During the Great Depression in California," a condensed version of her senior capstone paper completed last fall.

Sophomore Lukas Hrabik reflected on the experience, "The trip to Washington, D.C., was both educational and inspiring. We had the opportunity to hear incredible papers, explore the nation’s capital, and gather ideas for future research. It was truly a worthwhile experience."

“The Biennial Phi Alpha Theta conference in Washington, D.C., was excellent. The conference allowed me to instill more confidence in my own presentation and research skills, as well as give me the chance to make personal and professional connections,” said Faith Reynolds.

In addition to the conference, the group explored several significant historical sites, including the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Victims of Communism Museum, the National Mall, and the Smithsonian Museum of American History.

Dr. Jason Phillips, Associate Professor of History at Peru State College, highlighted the importance of the trip. "This was a fun and educational experience for our students, one that embodies the mission and vision of Peru State College." The trip exemplifies the College’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful, real-world learning experiences.

Nestled in the hills of historic Southeast Nebraska, Peru State College offers a mix of innovative online and traditional classroom undergraduate and graduate programs, including online graduate degrees.

Established in 1867 as Nebraska’s first college, Peru State has transformed over the past century and a half into a state-of-the-art institution offering diverse, multifaceted educational programs annually to nearly 1,200 students.