Tag: Capstone

Alexis Heenan 

The Body is Not a Machine: Understanding Addiction

In this evidence-based synthesis paper I incorporate research discovered in 22 peer-reviewed journals to propose an alternative approach to understanding addiction. I introduce the paper with an illustration of French philosopher, René Descartes’ metaphysical theory of substance dualism in efforts to introduce Western medicine’s biomedical system which views the human body as a working machine with individual parts. I include descriptions of addiction, substance, and addictive behavior as defined by the American Psychological Association. I dissect the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders’ description of addiction. Furthermore, I use scientific evidence to differentiate two opposing arguments defending the definition of addiction: the Brain Disease Model of Addiction and the Addiction Theory Network. I acknowledge and explain three prevalent addictions in the United States: (1) food, (2) technology, and (3) drugs. After careful ingestion of the data presented, the reader may come to understand that the biomedical approach in Western healthcare is counterproductive in understanding and treating those with addiction or addictive behavior. In opposition to substance dualism, and through the integration of various research, I offer that addiction can be most understood when the mind and the body are viewed to be one whole rather than two halves of the human being.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

1pm – P103

Andrew Lindley

Bushnell Cafeteria Offerings Survey and Analysis

This study seeks to improve the Bushnell dining experience by utilizing statistical methods. Using data gathered by a specific survey process, this project will uncover what meals students like, what meals students don’t like, and what can be done to better the cafeteria in light of these discoveries. The data collection design, data visualization, and statistical methods used in determining results will all be presented and explained. The end goal is an unbiased and accurate study that equips our staff to provide the best possible dining experience at Bushnell.

MATH499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Connie Wilmarth

10:30am – P003

Benjamin Randol

The Story of a Colonel and How the Artillery He Commanded Forever Changed American Military History

Of all the new military technologies used during the American Civil War, the one that had the most influence on American military history was light artillery as its lighter structure enabled more maneuverability, the accuracy of new rifled guns made artillery units more crucial in battle, and the resulting victory of the Union lead to the creation of other mobile artillery technologies, including the modern tank.

HIST499- History Capstone

Dr. Melisa Berry

Bushnell History Symposium (L203: 2:30-4:30pm)

Bethany Taylor

Crucial communication strategies between caregivers and children post-pandemic

Abstract- Studies suggest the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on youth ages 6 – 14 and their behaviors and skills, including communication skills. As a result of my passion for working with youth, I found this topic both intriguing and critically important to their future success. The objectives of my capstone is to inform parents and guardians of the various intervention methods and opportunities to utilize with young people to enhance their skills and confidence when communicating. Guided by research, I plan to recommend opportunities for parents and guardians to foster better communication at home by giving them easy tools to incorporate with the young people in their home on a daily basis. My capstone project includes a curriculum that will be shown to parents during a dedicated “Parents/Guardian Resource Night” as well as a take-home resource packet.

COMM499- Senior Capstone

Kelsey Rychener

1pm – P003

Braden Abbott

Effective Pastoral Care for Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Multigenerational Communities

What is effective pastoral care for baby boomers, generation x, millennials, and multigenerational communities? This research question has been the focus of my capstone since the beginning of the semester. As a Christian ministries major with a focus in pastoral ministry, I know that most of my time throughout my career will be spent providing spiritual care to those around me. It is obvious that this is a topic that will help me prepare for this task, but what if I told you that this topic is relevant to every church-going Christian? Pastoral care is an overlooked area of mental health which has the potential to help anyone struggling with things like depression, anxiety, life transitions, meaning making, and more. Finding a working definition of this concept and applying it to different populations is essential for its effective practice. Once this is established, effective pastoral care can be applied to a broad sociological profile for each of the generations mentioned in the research question. Finally, all this research will be applied to a multigenerational community such as a church serving multiple age groups in relationship. The findings of this capstone will prepare me to be a more effective practitioner of pastoral care and allow anyone in the audience to better understand how pastoral care can help them, regardless of the generational cohort they belong to or the experiences they have had throughout their lives.

CM499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

3:30pm – Bucher Room

Bryana Yoshida

Mental Health Care for Pregnant Women

The mental health of pregnant women has been neglected in the American healthcare system. This is especially true in regard to pre and postpartum depression and suicide.  According to the article Suicides During and Shortly After Pregnancy Are an Urgent Concern, Farzana Akkas states, “A study recently published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that over the past decade, nearly 9% of females of childbearing age (15-44) who died by suicide were pregnant or recently postpartum.” I propose three methods to address these problems. The first is support groups. The second is education, and the third is financial assistance. Eligibility for mental health resources should not depend on a woman’s financial status, racial identity, or ability. Mental health care during pregnancy should be open for all female residents in the United States

IDS 499 – Senior Capstone

James Berry

1pm – Bucher Room

Celsie Smith

From Poverty to Respectability: How Boxer James J. Braddock’s Internal Wealth transformed Depression Era Boxing

Referred to as “The Cinderella Man” by newspapers, James J. Braddock was a washed-up boxer with a “fairytale” return to the spotlight who become the world heavyweight champion in 1935.  Impacted by the Depression, he experienced defeat and humility, and had to face the economic and social reality of his situation. Braddock’s commitment to make his children healthy, fed, and happy drove him to return to boxing, despite previous failures. Seeing Braddock face and triumph over not just his opponents, but his own economic, mental, physical, social, and spiritual challenges re-ignited hope for American citizens facing their own poverty.

HIST499- History Capstone

Dr. Melisa Berry

Bushnell History Symposium (L203 2:30pm – 4:30pm)

Ency Soto Jacobo

Negative Factors Impact Female Athletes and Can Lead to the Development of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are a serious mental health concern that can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, including female collegiate athletes. In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I examined the prevalence of eating disorders among female collegiate athletes and identified risk factors that are associated with the development of eating disorders. I explored interventions that may effectively prevent and treat eating disorders in female collegiate athletes. Eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates among psychological disorders. It is important to understand why female athletes are at increased risk and what solutions can be implemented in a collegiate environment. Researchers have consistently found that female collegiate athletes are at an increased risk of developing eating disorders; as high as 45% of female college athletes engage in disordered eating behavior. Repeated risk factors associated with developing eating disorders in female collegiate athletes include social and cultural pressures, achieving an ideal body, sport-specific demands, competitive environment, stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors. This being said it is critical to increase awareness of this issue among coaches and athletes. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights into the risk factors of eating disorders in female collegiate athletes and highlight the importance of implementing intervention strategies to help prevent and treat these disorders. Future research must identify effective prevention and intervention programs in collegiate athletics.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

1:30 – P103

Hannah Shepard, Jennifer Banning, & Jaron Carter

Strategic Plan for One Hope

We have created a Strategic Plan for One Hope, a local non-profit. Elements of our plan include their vision and mission and plans for moving forward.

BUS499- Business Strategy and Policy

Christy Silverthorne

2pm – Bucher Room

Isaac Johnston

Worship: The Key to Spiritual Formation and the Heart of Discipleship

This project shows how an individual’s view of worship impacts their spiritual maturity. This paper will define the terms “worship” and “liturgy,” walk through transforming uses of liturgy to direct our worship in a congregational setting, and show how liturgy can form and point our individual worship to God in day-to-day life. In these things we will find the key to becoming like Christ for our personal spiritual formation and our discipleship of others.

CM 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

4pm – Bucher Room

Isaiah Robles

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

In this presentation, I will define FASD, including its relevance to worldwide populations, describe practices for FASD diagnosis, describe practices for therapeutic interventions over the lifespan of the individual, and describe the impacts/challenges of FASD. My youngest brother was adopted and was born with FASD, specifically FAS. Therefore, diving deep into this disorder helps me better understand the abnormalities going on with my brother, and how I can better interact with him. Because this condition is also severely underdiagnosed, it will be beneficial for the audience to understand the dangers of alcohol during pregnancy and the proper steps to raise and treat a child with FASD.

BIOL 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Paul Allee

11am – L204

Jamison Hanson

Vision, Mission, and Values as Competitive Advantage for Convergence Physical Therapy and Performance

Abstract- Vision, mission, and values are core tenants of what makes a business functional and beyond that, what makes a business thrive and leads to long term success. Without a vision, there is no direction for the company. Without mission, the company lacks a why, and the values that a company holds direct how it is going to function and what it is going to focus on and prioritize. Convergence Physical Therapy and Performance is a local Eugene based gym that works with clients in a cash based physical therapy model, as well as a strength training model. This presentation examines the tenants of vision, mission, and values as whole and specifically how they apply to Convergence, all under the guise that vision, mission, and values if used properly can be competitive advantages.

BUS499- Business Strategy and Policy (Honors Thesis Defense)

Christy Silverthorne

10am – Bucher Room

Jamison Hanson, Halle Neumann, Leslie Reynaga, & Peyton Ritchie

Convergence Physical Therapy Strategic Plan

We have created a strategic plan for Convergence Physical Therapy & Performance. The presentation will encompass many different areas of strategy from vision, mission, and values to strategic goals and timelines for implementation.

BUS499- Business Strategy and Policy

Christy Silverthorne

1:30pm – Bucher Room

Kaden Sand

How The Impact of Sports And Sports Marketing Has Changed Over Time

Sports and athletes have always had significant impact on the world and the communities that are participating in them. We can find instances of sports being played since the beginning of time because it is a peaceful way to settle the competitive spirit that most of us possess. Throughout history, these sporting events and their meanings have changed drastically to become what they are today. From settling war disputes, to holistic rituals, to now being competitive entertainment for our enjoyment we have seen many factors go into changing the significance of sports. In the modern era, social media and technology has helped make the push in the sport industry to become a profitable business that large companies and businesses have been able to use in order to become more successful. Due to the large followings that athletes and organizations have, it is a golden opportunity for sports marketing to enable this practice in the modern world.

IDS499- Senior Capstone

James Berry

4pm – P003

Kalina Mae Rojas

How attachment style formed during adolescence impacts communication strategies, behavioral patterns and well-being in adulthood

Research suggests that attachment styles are sensitive systems which develop during adolescence, and the attachment styles we form as infants directly impact the way we navigate relationships and communication in adulthood. My presentation will first review and synthesize key studies related to attachment theory that have been collected through my communication courses at Bushnell University as well as my own research. I will then seek to explain the different attachment theories that can form, along with the long-lasting impacts of these styles specific to interpersonal communication strategies, behavioral patterns, and well-being.

COMM 499 – Senior Capstone

Kelsey Rychner

1:30pm – P003

Karina Phifer

The Ramifications Of Child Maltreatment in Personality Development

Exposure to child maltreatment (CM) at any stage of development may have enduring ramifications on one’s personality. Individuals with a history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have an increased risk for psychopathology. Many of these risk factors have been associated with anxiety, depression, and personality disorders (PDs). PDs that I discussed were paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. The purpose of this evidence-based synthesis paper was to (a) analyze interrelationships between the different types of CM, (b) childhood experiences from maltreatment, and (c) the effects of personality development and behavior. By reviewing 16 empirical articles from 1999 to 2023, I found that neglect played a key role in the relationship between CM with personality traits during development. However, the research is limited and more studies on neglect are needed to better understand this important issue and how to prevent it.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

2pm – P103

Kaylen Kamelamela

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) 

In my presentation, I will give an overview of the kidneys and their function followed by a description of chronic kidney disease (CKD), its relevance to populations, ongoing treatment options, and a more detailed explanation of treatment through dialysis. Kidney disease has been on the rise in America, making it one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States. It is important to know how to discern the functionality of your kidneys, acknowledge signs or symptoms, and be aware of different risk factors that can increase the chances of being diagnosed with CKD and needing treatment.

BIOL 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Paul Allee

11:30am – L204

Kilano Loyd

Mental health struggles faced throughout childhood

Abstract In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I focus on the topics of depression and anxiety. By examining several stages of a person’s life beginning with prenatal development. I examine the many factors that a mother may endure while she is pregnant, and then I focus on childhood maltreatment. Childhood maltreatment includes abuse and neglect. I explain how childhood maltreatment may affect a child’s growth and contribute to developing depression and anxiety. Next, I examine individuals who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how they may deal with depression and anxiety. Finally, I investigate the effects of peer influence, including issues such as social norms, social status, cyber bullying, and social phobias. By reviewing 17 empirical articles, I offer a synthesis of the research in order to provide a better understanding of the complexities of depression and anxiety.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

3:30pm – P103

Madisen Trueblood

Benefits of Effective Classroom Management Techniques

Abstract – Effective classroom management is crucial in establishing a positive learning environment where the basic needs of all students are met. The modern education system requires aspiring and veteran educators to enforce effective and efficient classroom management strategies to enhance overall student behavior, social-emotional development, and academic achievement. If implemented successfully, classroom management techniques allow educators to provide quality instruction while simultaneously creating a space that promotes student success, development, and learning. As the structure of traditional American classrooms is ever-changing, teacher preparation programs have a responsibility to integrate course requirements that will adequately prepare aspiring educators for the harsh reality of behavior management challenges.

IDS499 – Senior Capstone 

James Berry

10:30am – Bucher Room

Mason Delamarter

A deep dive of major communication trends throughout the last 15 years

Communication is foundational to what makes us human, and yet, communication has evolved and changed drastically throughout time. My research looks specifically at communication trends throughout the last 15 years (2008-2023), focusing on the emergence of smartphones as a primary tool of communication, the rise of social media and its global impact on communication, as well as the more recent impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on present communication. My presentation will include a comparison of these impacts, both those perceived as positive and others as negative.

COMM499- Senior Capstone

Kelsay Rychener

2pm – P003

Michael Frank

How Can Church Based Youth Groups Address the Social Impacts of the Pandemic on Young People (6th-12th Grade)

Abstract- This essay will be exploring how church based youth groups can address the social impacts of the pandemic on young people (6th-12th grade). COVID-19 undoubtedly had lasting affects on everyone, but young people specifically suffered in major ways. Young people’s lives were drastically changed forever. With that said, there must be a way that church based youth groups can come alongside young people, and better meet them where they are at with their struggles.

BTM499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

2pm – L203

Olivia Bailon

Tree Death From America to Oregon

Throughout our nation, there are many different reasons behind why our forests and orchards are dying. In the United States, our trees are dying because of drought, various diseases, pests, and invasive species and plants. With the loss of large amounts of trees due to these variables, this has brought attention to the idea of losing valuable carbon sinks. Within the state of Oregon, forests are dying due to drought, but also bark beetles and various root diseases like laminated root rot and black stain root rot. Locally here at Dorris Ranch in Springfield, Oregon, was an outbreak of the fungus Eastern Filbert Blight in 2016. This has had a huge impact on the hazelnut industry due to the fact that our nations’ supply comes from the Willamette Valley here in Oregon.

BIOL499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Paul Allee

10:30am – L204

Rebecca Kuskie

Cognitive Differences Between Bilingual and Monolingual Children

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings across 15 empirical studies from 2008 to 2021 to summarize what is currently known about cognitive differences between bilingual and monolingual children. The differences between bilingual and monolingual children have been studied since the early 20th century. There was much debate as to whether there was an advantage or disadvantage in executive function and memory flexibility for bilingual children. Most researchers have found that there is a bilingual advantage in the inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility of executive function, as well as memory flexibility. There does not appear to be a clear advantage or disadvantage to the working memory process of executive function. Furthermore, researchers utilized that information to explore what effect that advantage has on language acquisition and survival processing. Some limitations to the research conducted was that there is not one cohesive definition of a bilingual child, and the requirement for the participants utilized varied in each study depending upon the definition used. Additionally, most studies are not replicable due to the strict nature of the groups studied and the variation that occurs between the different languages that each study tested.

PSY499- Psychology Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

3pm – P103

Samuel Hayter

The Application of Business Concepts to Help Start a Church. 

Abstract: Business ideas can be applied to help a church have a smooth and successful start. With ideas like the marketing mix, product what is it you are telling the target audience they need, promotion by getting the word out to people, place and location is a serious choice, price, what does it cost the consumer. Another idea is having a strong network of pastors who give help,  give a wise council, and advise. Next is choosing what denomination and characteristics does your church immolate. The management of the church is very and having an order to authority, so communication is clear. Finally having a proper leadership style, there are many forms to leadership but assessing what style is best to take depending on the situation. 

IDS 499 – Senior Capstone

James Berry

3:30pm – P003

Sarah Phillips

The Influence of Intrinsic Motivation in Elementary School Children

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I compiled 15 current primary research articles dating from 1993 to 2023. The focus of this review is to show the influence and effects of intrinsic motivation relating to elementary-school children’s academic success. I defined and described different types of motivation, various factors that drive motivation, learning theories, consequences of teacher-expectancy effects, and goal-setting techniques for children. A similar finding in close to all articles was intrinsic motivation is the highest predictor for children’s academic success, well-being, and positive learning experiences. This is an important finding because it has been shown that children can thrive academically and succeed when given the right environment to be motivated internally versus externally.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

2:30pm – P103

Taylor Bryant

Mindfulness and the Modern Dilemma: Exploring the Use of Mindfulness as a Means of Individual and Interpersonal Well-being

Research has suggested many benefits of mindfulness on individual and interpersonal health. My presentation will include an introduction that explains the modern dilemma of mental illness and social dysfunction, a review of literature that investigates the effects of mindfulness on health, and a personal account of my self-experiment that included implementing mindfulness practices into my daily life and conducting interviews with individuals who specialize in mindfulness practices. The purpose of this presentation is to make the case that humanity is in desperate need of a wellness revolution, and mindfulness is a powerful tool in that pursuit. Furthermore, my intention is to provide personal experience to encourage others firsthand that practicing mindfulness is not only beneficial, but transformative.

COMM499- Senior Capstone

Kelsay Rychener

1pm – P103

Tyler King

Remember and the Bible

Remembering is a major theme of the Hebrew Bible from altars to Israelites forgetting, and this theme persists into the New Testament. What can we learn about God through seeing how the word remember is used in the New Testament and how does that affect our walk with God? The words remember remind and forget come up eighty different times in the New Testament making them a central piece of these letters therefore christians should pay attention to how they are used. Some lessons that can be learned from examining how these themes are used are, praying for the persecuted church, dwelling on scripture, using physical reminders, having mentors/mentees, and more.

CM 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

3pm – Bucher Room

Alessia Righi

Einstein’s Theory of Special Relativity

This thesis examines the topic of Einstein’s special relativity. Starting from Aristotle’s ‘locus naturalis’ through Newton’s laws of dynamics all the way to Maxwell’s equations, the paper looks at the historical progress made in the human understanding of space and time, with a particular focus on the contradiction that brought Einstein to develop the relativity theory.

MATH 499 – Senior Capstone

Connie Wilmarth

11:30am-Noon Bucher Room

Annalee McIntosh

What Moses Can Teach Leaders About Grief in Ministry

Moses had a deep desire to enter the Promised Land with the Israelites, but the fulfillment of this desire was taken away from him by God. Moses had to continue doing ministry, knowing that his desires were never to be fulfilled. Many ministry leaders’ dreams and hopes for their church are being crushed during this post-pandemic time. They are in the time of decreased church attendance, deaths from the pandemic, increased political division, and more. They are in a state of grief and when that grief is ignored it results in consequences that are detrimental to a leader. These consequences can result in pastors burning out or can even result in pastors having to leave their churches. The story of Moses shows that these leaders are in good company, for Moses experienced these same pains of lost desire and deep grief. His response to this grief was to continue being faithful to his calling and to the people he was serving. Showing that ministry is hard and painful work but calls for awareness of the pain, and commitment to the calling ones received.

CM 499 – Senior Capstone

Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

4:00pm – 4:30pm L203

Courtney Weinberger

Actuarial P-Test

Actuaries need to be masters of probability. Hence the reason why the very first exam Actuaries will take is primarily on the mastery of probability. To master the different forms of probability, you must do several problems until you have the equations memorized. For the very first test, people interested in Actuarial work must master the conditional, discrete, continuous, and multivariable forms of probability. These forms of probability each have some unique difficult problems which will be shown and thoroughly explained. Additionally, all of these forms of probability have their own set of equations as well as requirements that must be fulfilled. Knowing when and where to use each form is crucial because of this reason.

MATH 499 – Senior Capstone

Connie Wilmarth

10:00am – 10:30am P103

David Schwartz

The Introduction of Statcast to Major League Baseball

Major League Baseball has been a driving force in American sports and statistical developments with the introduction of Statcast. Statcast uses the combination of doppler radar and video to obtain advanced statistics that are utilized for the development of baseball players. Prior to Statcast the general focus when it came to statistics in baseball were simple stats like Earned Run Average, Hits, Runs Batted In, etc. With the introduction of Statcast, we can focus more on predictive statistics that helps coaches scout players from a different perspective. For example, statistics like Expected Batting Average, Expected Weighted On Base Percentage, and many other recently introduced advanced stats that are discussed to show the benefit of using Statcast data for creating the most successful team possible. The introduction of Statcast, along with many other technological advances Major League Baseball has made created a window of growth for the baseball community as a whole by introducing new ways to analyze players and their development.

MATH 499 – Senior Capstone

Brian Carrigan

10:30am – 11:00am P103

Devon Halleman

Soul Wounds: The Impact of Moral Injury in First Responders and Implications for Counseling

First responders (e.g., law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency dispatchers) operate in conditions where responsibility to act, empathy, and moral influence converge with human tragedy. More than 80% of first responders have endorsed experiencing traumatic events. First responders are disproportionately subjected to events and experiences that may conflict with their deeply rooted moral values. These events increase their risk of facing stress-related issues outside of those experiences, as outlined in established fear-based stress disorders. As such, first responders are at an increased risk of depression, substance abuse, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicide. This paper addresses the complex diagnostic distinctions between PTSD and moral injury (MI). An event leading to posttraumatic stress disorder does not necessarily mean a moral injury has occurred; however, moral injury is always traumatic. MI has been defined as “a response to trauma when a person or group’s core moral foundations cannot identify, justify, process, and integrate the trauma experience into a meaningful system that sustains relationships and human flourishing.” Commonly accepted characteristics of MI include shame, guilt, spiritual or existential crisis, and loss of trust in oneself or others. When MI goes untreated, secondary diagnostic characteristics can include anxiety, depression, anger, reexperiencing, self-harm, and social issues. This paper discusses the importance of moral repair, personal renewal, and self-forgiveness in one’s journey of healing and restoring one’s moral identity. Culturally competent clinicians must listen attentively, devoid of judgment or individual agenda, and be proficient at recognizing and treating a moral injury.

Keywords: ​moral injury, posttraumatic stress disorder, trauma, first responder, counseling

CMHC 699 – Capstone

Mindi Barta

3:00pm – 4:00pm L203

Faith Palmer

How Collectivistic Culture and Individualistic Culture Influence Human Development 

This is an evidence-based synthesis paper developed with 15 current primary research articles dating from 2015 to 2022. The focus of this review was on collectivistic and individualistic cultures and their relation to human development. These articles included information that explains the significance of using culture in research, similarities and differences between cultures, psychosocial development in relation to culture, and attachment styles in cultures. A similar finding amongst several of the articles was a warning against dichotomizing cultures as individualistic versus collectivistic. While this is an effective way to evaluate and categorize cultures, it must not be the only form of evaluating cultures used or be used to misjudge cultures for their differences. In the studies I reviewed it became evident that there is a similar life trajectory across cultures. People from each culture believed that life gets better as we get older, people made changes in efforts to enhance their view of life, and that our well-being is based on if our needs are being met. However, in each of these findings researchers also discovered that each culture differed in the way they accomplished these goals. Participants from different cultures also differed in the way that they approached attachment, yet attachment is a pancultural experience as it is an innate human characteristic. From the studies it also became apparent that culture influences psychosocial development and cognition because there were significant differences in social skills, and the way participants thought between individualistic and collectivistic cultures. Culture sensitivity is a relatively new perspective that is becoming increasingly popular and was used while writing this paper. It also should be used when reading this paper.  

PSY 499 – Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

1:30pm – 2:00pm L203

Fausto Gomez Herrera

Serial Murderers Are Created Not Born

Serial murderers are notorious and dangerous, yet society is intrigued by them. In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 13 articles from 2009 to 2019 to better understand serial murderers. By reading these articles it became evident that people are not born evil. With glimpse into their childhood, we see that many serial murderers experienced unstable and abusive homes. Their living situations can be viewed as traumatizing and contribute to aggressive and violent behaviors. However, their unstable homes alone are not enough to make serial murderers. Many serial murderers have a psychological disorder that also may contribute to their violent behaviors. However, it remains important to understand that most people with psychological disorders do not behave aggressively. While focusing on the trauma experienced by serial murderers, we can see how they find pleasure in killing their victims. Additionally, many serial murderers experienced bullying as young children, and this social rejection negatively impacted them as they were growing up. These experiences result in some people becoming antisocial as adults, whereas others became sociable, successful people. There are not as many serial murderers as there were 30 years ago, in part due to how child safety standards have changed, and it has become more socially acceptable for people to ask for psychological help. After researching serial murderers, I have found that they are made from many factors that are not just a person being born an evil. 

PSY 499 – Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

1:00pm – 1:30pm

Grace Brown

The God We Fear: The Leonine Imagery in Hosea and Amos

“The God We Fear: The Leonine Imagery in Hosea and Amos” is a capstone research project that solely focuses on the God that we as Christians should not only love, but fear just as much. In the Old Testament, Hosea and Amos present God as a roaring lion that not only warns the rebellious Israelites of their coming destruction brought upon them because of their sin with his roar, but also demonstrates his justice, majesty, power, boldness and patience as the alleged “king of beasts” that doesn’t hesitate to hunt down His prey. Leonine Imagery such as this resonated with the Ancient Israelites due to their experiences with lions terrorizing them as the incredible predators they are. Therefore, having God being depicted as a roaring lion that shows no mercy once provoked instills an even greater terror in those that broke their covenant promise with Him and worshipped others but Himself. With Israelites repeatedly turning to sin and their own destruction, God knew that the only way to rescue Israel from dooming themselves was to secure the nation’s heart through force, which is exactly how a lion deals with its prey. This grotesque imagery shocks and reminds the readers of any era that God is not only known for His love and forgiveness, but for His justice and righteousness. However, even after demonstrating His omnipotence and punishing Israel for their crimes, this is not the end of the story. Both books speak of a rising hope that will deliver Israel from certain death at God’s hands, because God cannot resist loving His people despite their glaring flaws. For those who repent, God portrays Himself as a loving father who always has His arms open in acceptance. God, as the lion, allowed Himself to be tamed by humanity due to His unfailing love. The “king of beasts” will make Himself gentle for those who submit to Him, since the reason He is a roaring lion was to win us back to Himself. This was accomplished through righteous fear from us and divine love from Him working in tandem, which should remind Christians that God is not only to be loved but to be feared and revered as the roaring lion He is. After all, as C.S. Lewis simply puts it, “He isn’t safe…But He’s good” (The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe”, p.146).

CM 499 – Senior Capstone

Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

3:00pm – 3:30pm P103

Jessica Northcutt

Human Genetic Disorders

There are over 6000 Human Genetic Disorders identified. I will be going over the different types of Human Genetic Disorders, specifically Single Gene Inheritance. I will give examples of these human genetic disorders and current research.

BIOL 499 – Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

1:30pm – 2:00pm P103

Joseph Washburn

Facilitating Faith-Based Mental Health Education Through First Aid Training

Mental health problems are rising in the U.S., even more so since Covid-19. Violent crime is increasing across the nation, as well. In the U.S., Christianity is seen as less and less relevant. This paper looks at how biblically-influenced educational best practices can improve mental health and self-efficacy while imparting everyday lifesaving skills. Recent research has shown the efficacy of faith-based mental health strategies. The past two decades of U.S. military conflict have garnered volumes of data on the psychology of survival stress. The author believes Christians have a biblical mandate to meet the physical needs of those in distress regardless of the personal cost. The author argues that by implementing educational best practices, first-aid and self-defense skills (i.e., pro-social tools and skills) can be taught on the foundation of a biblical imperative using the framework and scaffolding of evidence-based practices in mental health, resulting in improved self-efficacy, a sense of belonging, and enhanced meaning in life.

IDS 499 – Senior Capstone

James Berry

10:00am – 10:30am Bucher Room

Julia Kassing

Long-Term Financing and Capital Structure

The role of a financial manager is unique and vital in relation to a company’s ability to thrive. They must decide how best to utilize resources in order to maximize shareholder value. When a company needs an increase in capital, they may turn to a form of long-term capital financing. This is generally in the form of either debt or equity. In deciding how to obtain new capital, a financial manager must evaluate the health of the company, the desired level of risk and leverage, and the state of the greater economic environment. To delve into this topic, it will be imagined that Yeti Holdings, Inc. (YETI) requires increased capital. We will examine the company’s financial statements and the position of the firm in relation to both the current and projected economic conditions to determine in what matter the company should obtain new capital and the resulting implications of this decision.

MATH 499 – Senior Capstone

Connie Wilmarth

3:30pm – 4:00pm P103

Luke Burke

Wealth Culture and Youth Discipleship

Everyone knows that popular American culture has great influence on the way youth live in and interact with the world. In fact, one could argue that popular American culture influences the youth more than anything else in their lives. This causes a problem within the church. The church is supposed to disciple young people into adults who follow Jesus. However, many young kids are being discipled by the culture rather than the church they attend. More and more kids are coming to church with the idea that their life is supposed to be about how much wealth they can accumulate. Popular American culture has persuaded youth to think that life is all about wealth. This means that the church must step up and redisciple youth in their view of wealth that is healthy and in line with the gospel of Jesus. This paper will propose a new paradigm of discipleship and formation for youth as it relates to attitudes toward wealth in popular American culture.

BTM 499 – Senior Capstone

AJ Swoboda

10:30am – 11:00am Bucher Room