For many decades, thesis examiner work was characterized by carefully measuring margins with the proverbial ruler, stamping-off on signature sheets, and collecting bound, paper copy theses for distribution. While this creates an antiquated picture of the profession, too often we experience that this depiction is still applied to the work. We see the role of the thesis examiner moving from exclusively managing backend manuscript examination and clearance to also providing frontend support for the development of publication, data management, and preservation best practices. Some universities have begun to rethink the responsibilities of the thesis office, especially with the emergence of new-form student scholarship.

During this panel, we will explore changes to the portfolio of the thesis office on our campuses through two lens. First, we’ll explore the role the thesis office plays in the development and preservation of student work. As student work becomes more complex, the thesis office may be called upon to help students create work that can be preserved and accessed for years to come. We see this sort of support as making a positive—and professional—contribution not only to broader university life, but also to the public good. Second, we’ll discuss strategies to advocate for ourselves and our role at institutions. Presenters will discuss some of the changes they have made (or hope to make), conversations they have shared, questions they have, and/or challenges they see moving forward. This session will be interactive, so we encourage attendees to share their thoughts and questions.

This panel was originally proposed by the University of Iowa thesis office and accepted for the 2021 Midwest Association of Graduate Schools conference, but this event did not take place due to the pandemic. The panelists have not yet been determined.