Engaging the next generation with Appalachian Studies: building community and expanding outreach through technology and diversity of programming

This roundtable will address the challenges of expanding participation in the interdisciplinary ASA conference, drawing on the perspectives of four student interns who worked closely with the 2018 Program Committee and two students who were part of the planning and presentation group for the 2018 main plenary. Particular emphasis will be placed on drawing youth into conference participation through the use of technology (including social media) and diverse programming that has relevance for younger participants and those not comfortable with traditional academic formats. We will be sharing our “behind scene” experiences and hope to start an ongoing conversation that will help ASA leadership and others understand the benefits of meaningful involvement of students in conference planning. Our goal is to engage ASA membership with broader regional needs and promote dialogue related to Appalachia that will foster more diverse and inclusive membership