Tag: Capstone

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

Payton Jones

An Analysis of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a highly aggressive neurodegenerative disease that effects executive function of the brain. This disease was discovered by Alois Alzheimer through a series of observations and dissections. A patient may be diagnosed if showing symptoms such as dementia, confusion, paranoia, and restlessness. The build up of beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the portions of the brain that are correlated with memory are characteristic of this disease. Many other things have been thought to contribute to the cognitive decline of one presenting with Alzheimer’s, including genetic markers that may increase one’s risk of developing this disease. Preventive measures can be taken in order to potentially slow progressive or delay onset on Alzheimer’s, however there is only one immunotherapy medication that has been approved for its disease-modifying effects.

BIOL 499 – Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

1:00pm – 1:30pm P103

Jasmine Aguilar

A Campaign Gone Global

Student interest in study abroad is on a continuous rise, however the number of participating Bushnell students have gone down. To resolve this, a public relations campaign plan was specifically designed for the Bushnell Global Programs. The planning model used in the campaign plan was the R.O.S.T.I.R model, which stands for research, objectives, strategies, implementation, and reporting. Research was conducted by using peer-reviewed articles, textbooks, and comparing other universities’ programs. This information gathered was put into the campaign plan to support decisions made. The campaign plan is to be used by the faculty advisor of Bushnell’s Global Programs and the student global ambassadors as a yearlong plan and tool to promote the program and increase participation rates. At the end of the campaign plan, the faculty advisor and student global ambassadors can reflect on whether objectives were met and can continue to utilize the plan in the following years. Keywords: global programs, study abroad, public relations, campaign plan

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader and Kelsay Rychener

PFB 003

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Lydia Batenhorst

Gaslight, Gatekeep, Girlboss: Themes of Deception and Death in Women’s Stories in the Hebrew Bible

In my capstone, I will be studying five women from the Hebrew Bible: Eve, Rebekah, Jael, Delilah, and Jezebel. What a fascinating group of widely upsetting and despised women! My objective is to explore how we might be able to redeem these characters, focusing on their strengths and other interpretations to provide a perspective that is contrary or new to the typical reading of these characters. In order to do so, I narrowed the lens, concentrating on the destructive themes of deception and death in these stories. For the first theme, I have chosen to focus on three women whose stories reflect the tensions of deception: Rebekah, Jael, and Delilah. For the second, two of the most despised women in the Hebrew Bible – Eve and Jezebel – will be analyzed through this theme of death. I believe this exploration will be worthwhile and important because their characters are often used – whether explicitly or implicitly, whether intentionally or unintentionally – to define and limit perceptions of women. By recovering and renewing their stories and roles, we are recovering the more positive portrayals and perceptions of women while challenging the largely negative common beliefs of and standard narrative for women that has been laid upon us, justified in the “deceitful, seductive, weak-willed, unreliable, temptress” narrative, portrayal, and interpretation of women likes these five.

ENG 499, Senior Capstone

James Watson

L203

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Cameron Binaley

Preventable Catastrophe in Law Enforcement: The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Siege Against the Branch Davidians and David Koresh

From February 28th to April 19th 1993, an event took place known as the Waco Siege. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) attempted to conduct a Siege and investigation into the religious cult known as the Branch Davidians and their fanatic leader David Koresh. This Siege ended with the death of four ATF Agents, Steve Willis, Robert Williams, Todd McKeehan, and Conway Charles LeBleu, and 76 Branch Davidians, 20 of which were children, 2 pregnant women, and their leader David Koresh. This event is often referred to as one of the biggest failures in recent law enforcement history, and rightfully so. However, I argue that the ATF did use Reasonable Force against the Branch Davidians on the basis of the Branch Davidians beliefs and illegal activity, the the information the ATF had on David Koresh and the Branch Davidian, and, Legal Aftermath of the Siege.

HIST 499, Senior Capstone

Melisa Ortiz Berry

P103

1 – 4 PM

Return to schedule

Shay Coons

Applying Therapeutic Interventions to Build Resilience in Children from Homes At-risk for Abuse

Throughout history, with startling prevalence, children have faced maltreatment within family and home settings. Early intervention specialists have long emphasized the need to implement intervention programs highlighting the development of resilience, social-emotional skills, and improving the family dynamic. Therapeutic intervention strategies for children in homes at-risk for abuse may be effective in promoting resilience in children and predicting successful life outcomes. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends in therapeutic intervention strategies. First, resiliency is regarded as a protective factor for children at-risk for abuse. Next, researchers have highlighted the importance of developing social-emotional skills in children at-risk for abuse. Moreover, parental involvement in interventions for children in homes at-risk for abuse is of paramount importance. Finally, the impact of current interventions on children at-risk for abuse has shown promising outcomes. Children demonstrating features of resilience exhibited reduced perception of being threatened and lower states of anxiety. Intervention methods such as Child-Centered Play Therapy, focused on the development and improvement of social-emotional skills, have demonstrated a decline in externalizing negative behaviors. A holistic approach to intervention, involving parent education, is an important aspect of improving family dynamics in homes at-risk for abuse and preventing retraumatization. Current intervention strategies have demonstrated positive outcomes in promoting social-emotional skills and altering neural patterns for response inhibition among children at-risk for maltreatment. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to explore developmental stage differences that could impact the effectiveness of particular interventions and ensure that they are developmentally appropriate.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Carina Haas

How can we be more connected within the church?

The student was interested in creating an event on how people can feel more connected within the church. An event was created at One Love Church where people can learn more about communication and have a time of getting to know one another and connect with one another.

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader

PFB 003

2 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Brosnan Johnson

Periodontal Disease and Periodontistry

The primary cause of tooth loss is periodontitis. Close to 50% of the adult population has a form of periodontitis or swelling of the gums due to bacteria lying just beneath the surface of the gums. Oral health is important to the general health of a person and it is the first line of defense against diseases and other bacteria entering the body. Dental caries can lead to adverse health effects and can even be the cause of death. Dental disease can also cause and be caused by stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. Periodontistry is a field that has been around for a long time to help combat this. Periodontists can do a myriad of procedures in order to help prevent gum recession and bone loss as well as other signs of periodontistry. Hygienists can also help prevent periodontitis by performing procedures such as scaling and root planing. Periodontistry is a vital role in keeping the mouth healthy and also the body overall.

BIOL 499, Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

L203

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Jordan Kuykendall

Relationship between Genetics and Personalities

Genetics and personalities, two very interesting topics that could very possibly have correlations and a relationship with each other. Understanding how genetics plays into personality disorders is another aspect that does not go deep into detail mainly because there is not enough research around the subject. The biggest aspect of genetics that plays into one’s personalities is the nature versus nurture aspect. The environment that someone is surrounded by during the developmental stages of their lives play the biggest role in the idea of genetics and personality disorders. There are ten different personality disorders that are typically related to the environmental aspects of genetics. However, not enough information has been discovered to determine if there is actually a correlation between genetics and personalities, but it is currently being looked into and further studied and maybe in future years the idea of genes correlating with personality and personality disorders will probably be deeper in understanding and further the knowledge of the possibilities.

BIOL 499, Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

L203

2:30 – 3 PM

Return to schedule

Alex Locati

The Danger of Difference and How Teachers Can Cultivate Success

Teaching is historically a profession dominated by white, middle-class, women from rural towns. As the diversity of the United States population continues to increase, so does the need for teachers and educators to respond to and accommodate the learners of these different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds that appear in their classrooms. Currently, there is a gap in academic performance between different groups of students, and it is important that we address this issue. White, Black, Hispanic, boys, and girls should all have an equal opportunity for a quality education that prepares them for their future. Ignorance and avoidance of differences between teachers and students can cause issues and create a hindering learning environment where students are not able to receive the help they need. In the context of a student-centered learning environment, this research focuses on how teachers can use culturally responsive pedagogy to understand how to address the needs of all students in their classrooms, and in Oregon specifically. Through the culturally responsive practices of differentiation, meaningful relationship, and continuing education and training, teachers can learn how to best approach their student’s learning and consequently, serve the achievement gap in Oregon.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

Brian Mills

L203

3 – 3:30 PM

Return to schedule

Eric Marbley Jr.

The Impact of Retirement on Athletes’ Mental Health

American adults nearing retirement may experience mental health struggles. Specifically, in professional and collegiate sports many athletes are not prepared for the mental health challenges they will encounter when it is time to step away from their sports. Athletes who are near retirement may experience poor mental health surrounding diverse factors. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends regarding the impact retirement has on athletes’ mental health. First, many factors contribute to the mental health struggles of athletes in retirement. Next, athletic injuries play a substantial role in retired athletes’ mental health. Moreover, when athletes retire from their respective sports a loss of identity may take place. Lastly, athletes may be reluctant to seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health in the sports setting. These variables may exist because of the lack of preparation not solely by the athlete but by the athlete’s support system as well.  Collegiate athletes have extremely full schedules with schoolwork and game preparation. Researchers have found that retired athletes reported greater depressive symptoms than active players. This may be due to the fact that retired athletes are more open to sharing their mental health status and thus, mental health professionals are more aware of the retired athletes’ mental health challenges. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to further explore the impact that mental health may have on athletes’ ability to perform while playing their sports, and to have a clearer understanding of how to care for athletes in retirement.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

2 – 2:30 PM

Return to schedule

Meagan Mollahan

US College Student Vulnerability to Suicidality

American college students are experiencing increasing mental health challenges. Specifically, suicide is the second leading cause of death amidst college students. Multiple factors impact the mental health of college students and may lead to their increased vulnerability to suicidality. Therefore, this presentation will review four research trends concerning factors that escalate college students’ suicidal ideation. First, depression and sense of burden are prominent in contributing to risk of suicidality. Equally important, fear of rejection and lack of belonging perpetuate desires to isolate and withdraw from society and life altogether. Moreover, minority students face greater stress and vulnerability to suicidal ideation than their Caucasian or heterosexual counterparts. Lastly, negative coping strategies escalate suicidality, while positive coping strategies have the potential to encourage resilience. Regardless of whether the perception is true, students with depression are more likely than non-depressed students to perceive other people as viewing them as a burden, better off dead. The more an individual avoids their emotions, and isolates themself, the greater their sensitivity to being rejected. They feel unwanted and alone. Minority students face even greater emotional distress and may feel unsafe in college solely because of who they are, leading to higher suicidality risk. In an attempt to escape overwhelming emotions, students commonly turn to alcohol and other substances; but for many, these practices only increase distress and suicidal ideation. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to explore ways to reduce the stigma of suicide and mental health struggles in men.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

1:30 – 2 PM

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Taylor Quirk

The Impact of Trauma on Emotion Development in Childhood

Throughout history, children have been subjected to diverse traumas in their homes by their parents, caregivers, and “trusted” adults. Experiencing these traumas can hinder a growing child’s development in their emotion regulation, their attachment styles, and their mental health. Experiencing trauma may impede emotion development in children and adolescents. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends in childhood emotion development impeded by trauma. First, children may be subjected to betrayal trauma in their own households, most often by their mothers. Next, domestic violence trauma in childhood predicts concurrent co-morbid mental health disorders. Moreover, children experiencing sexual abuse trauma have been linked to developing insecure or disorganized attachment styles. Finally, experiencing trauma in childhood is negatively linked with children’s emotion regulation development. Maternal betrayal trauma and negative parenting styles are revealed in the psychological and emotional distress which these children experience at home. Early exposure to household violence and intimate partner violence is likely to derail children’s emotional well-being. Children experiencing sexual abuse have been associated with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, along with psychological challenges and distress. Emotion regulation is a common concern found among children experiencing diverse traumas. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to explore parent education regarding building a healthy and nurturing environment for children so they may be provided with safe and encouraging emotional growth in the face of life’s challenges.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

3 – 3:30 PM

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Samantha Silver

Concerns Facing Mental Health Awareness for Student-Athletes

Mental health awareness for student-athletes stood out to me for my capstone because of the hopelessness I heard from other athletes and the frustrations that were voiced by athletic directors and athletes alike. This catapulted me into the creation of my capstone which focused on the importance of mental health awareness in our student-athletes at Bushnell University. Many students had voiced that they felt pressure to perform so much so that it caused crippling anxiety and fear that if they made a mistake they would instantly be pulled from their sport. This carried over into their lives and made it so they felt as if they were not allowed to show weakness, or voice that they were struggling with something happening in their lives. When faced with depression, anxiety, or other issues that presented themselves instead of getting help the student-athletes would try to ignore it and push the issue to the back of their minds. To the athlete, this was easier than taking on the fear of being seen as weak or feeling the pressure to be perfect. The way I designed this project was based on interactions with some of the teams on campus. I met with these teams three times over the course of this semester. The focus of the meetings was to ensure that they were aware of the many mental health support networks that we had on campus and what they thought could be improved. From these meetings I was able to learn that there are more stereotypes surrounding different teams than most people realize. Having these come to light and be addressed would be a huge stepping stone in helping some of these athletes take the next step in receiving help for their mental health struggles. Some of the teams were difficult to get in contact with or they did not respond because of their busy schedules. In the future, I would like to have a powerful hand like the athletic director possibly step in and have all the coaches and teams participate. The hope would be to have all teams from Bushnell University cooperate. This would make it so that bigger steps could be taken in the future and the topic of mental health awareness among student-athletes be taken more seriously.

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

11 – 11:30 AM

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Jordan Strehlow

Exploring Christian Couples’ Marriages

A great deal of research has been conducted regarding the effect of religion on marriages and satisfaction in marriages. However, little research has been done to analyze the effect that reading the Bible has on a marriage. Based on previous research on religion and marriage satisfaction, I hypothesized that participants who read the Bible more times a week will be more satisfied with their marriage. The study’s findings revealed that there was a weak correlation between reading the Bible more times a week and marriage satisfaction.

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader

PFB 003

3 – 3:30 PM

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Melissa Swick

Homelessness and Opioid Addiction

An opioid epidemic is raging in America, a crisis that has steadily increased since 2000. At the same time, the number of people experiencing homelessness and opioid addiction has also increased. Individuals with a history of homelessness are at increased risk for opioid addiction. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends that examine opioid abuse and being homeless in America. First, there is a critical relationship between homelessness and opioid use disorder (OUD). Second, chronic pain contributes significantly to OUD in people who experience homelessness. Third, treatment programs for OUD in people experiencing homelessness vary in their success rates. Fourth, there are many barriers to successful treatment of OUD for people experiencing homelessness. The rates of opioid abuse in people who experience homelessness are almost three times higher than for those who are housed. Researchers have discovered that people who experience homelessness are at increased risk of OUD because they have higher rates of chronic pain than people in the general population. Managed opioid programs may result in improvements in the health and social well-being of people who experience homelessness. There are numerous barriers, however, to treatment adherence for people who experience homelessness. Future directions in research will be discussed, including the need to explore the impact of the opioid epidemic on individuals who live in small towns or rural areas and experience homelessness.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

3:30 – 4 PM

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Karissa Bailor

Understanding the Impact of Online Influencers

The Internet has provided a unique opportunity for online entertainment, and a more direct way to connect with online influencers. Parasocial relationships between online content creators and their viewers, however, may have a negative impact on the viewers’ finances, trust, and personal worldviews. Recent research trends will also be reviewed, e.g., findings that online Influencers maintain the successful promotion of products or potential scams, and online influencers maintain strong influence on children and adolescent viewers. Future directions will also be reviewed including the fact that psychology researchers have not adequately investigated the psychological impact of Influencers; current research is heavily focused on marketing benefits, while few studies have researched the often blind trust between viewers and influencers, the psychological impact and benefits of influencer marketing. Researchers must explore the far-reaching effects of social media influencers on developing children and youth.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

3:30 – 3:55 PM

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Nicolas Cazares

Modern Approaches to Spinal Cord Repair

Spinal cords are one of the most sensitive parts of the human body and damage to them can massively hinder one’s quality of life. This presentation will go over medical research of spinal cord repair. The first section is an overview of what the spinal cord is including, cellular make-up, biological function, and detailed anatomy. The second section of this presentation will discuss the history of research within this field dating back to the 1960s. Following this I will look at modern approaches to spinal cord repair and discuss the pros and cons of each method.

MATH 499

Brian Carrigan

P103

1 – 1:30 PM

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