On March 11, 2026, outstanding undergraduate researchers from across the Universities of Wisconsin gathered in the State Capitol for the annual Research in the Rotunda event. This showcase brings together some of the UW System’s most dedicated student scholars, offering them the opportunity to share their work with legislators, state leaders, alumni, and supporters in the iconic Capitol Rotunda.
The L&S Honors Program is delighted to recognize Adina Kurzban, an Honors student majoring in Economics and Philosophy (Honors in the Major), who was selected to present her research at this year’s event. Adina’s interdisciplinary academic path reflects her commitment to using rigorous analytical tools—and deep philosophical inquiry—to understand some of the most urgent challenges facing communities today.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Harry Brighouse, Adina has been conducting research on the growing crisis often described as “rural deaths of despair.” Her project uses frameworks from moral philosophy to examine the values that shape rural life, community identity, and well-being. By focusing on how these values guide people’s sense of purpose and their social and economic decisions, Adina’s work sheds light on the moral dimensions underlying rural hardship and resilience.
The L&S Honors Program proudly celebrates Adina Kurzban for her thoughtful, impactful work and thanks both her and Dr. Harry Brighouse for their contributions to undergraduate research at UW–Madison. We are equally grateful to the organizers of Research in the Rotunda for creating yet another meaningful opportunity for students to engage with Wisconsin’s leaders.