The semi-annual research colloquium at Bushnell founded by Dr. Tim Bergquist.
2023 Bushnell debate championship
Topic: Jesus was not all-knowing.
Affirmative: Grayson Bolaños
Negative: Spencer Hoffman
The winner will be decided by audience vote, and will be crowned the 2023 Bushnell debate champion.
COMM 325, Argumentation and Debate
Doyle Srader
L203 (click here to view the live stream)
10 – 11 AM
Child development and Reading Aloud Go Hand in Hand
My English service practicum has focused on the benefits of reading aloud with children. This presentation brings together scholarly research and my own experiences volunteering with students at the Creswell Clubhouse, which serves students ranging from kindergarten through sixth grade. The Clubhouse is a nonprofit afterschool and summer camp program for the kids of Creswell. As part of my English service practicum, I read aloud with them and help them with homework and packets provided by the program. Throughout the semester, I have been noting my observations, especially as they relate to the importance of reading aloud and how it enhances a child’s development. I am so grateful to have this opportunity because not every child experiences one-on-one reading time at school or at home. I have discovered just how important reading with children is, and how many benefits there are in doing so.
ENG 395, Service Practicum
Connie Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
A plan to make a Bushnell education an opportunity to learn
There are lots of pressures on college students that distort our experience and make learning very difficult. Some come from our habits, and some are just built into the system itself. We have been studying those pressures and thinking hard about strategies to overcome them and make college into a learning experience. Come hear our plan and join us, and we can work a lot less hard and have a lot more to show for it.
FYS 175, Critical University Studies
Doyle Srader
L203 (click here to view the live stream)
1 – 1:30 PM
Tape Spade product idea for Haus and Garten
The presentation of a product idea called the Tape Spade brings a new perspective to the gardening industry.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Final Research Project
We as a group are developing a business idea that represents a form of holistic mission to serve others. Our business that we are developing is a private school for students that focuses on career paths and more opportunity for what the student wants to learn. Along with that we intend to incorporate Christian values and teachings as well.
BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Telling true stories
Telling authentic stories about the Islam religion and how it relates to Christianity. Trying to explore the question, “Do Christians and Islams worship the same God”?
HIST 161, World History I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
The History of Christianity and Apologetics: How Knowing Christian Background Strengthens the Defense of Our Faith
Knowing the history of Christianity can help to strengthen and deepen our apologetic arguments. we define apologetics as “the systematic argumentative discourse in defense branch of theology devoted to defending, providing an answer for, and standing by the Christian faith no matter the circumstance”. We need apologetics because of ideas like Gnosticism and Arianism; ideas that contradict the truth of the Bible. Diving deeper into specific examples, we find that some people do not believe that the Jesus of History is the same as the Jesus of the Bible, or that the Bible hates women, or they don’t understand how a God of love would allow His followers to suffer in persecution even to the point of death. Apologetics is a necessary tool and by using history to strengthen it, We have a pretty unbeatable claim to Christianity.
HIST 331, History of Christianity I
Stephen Andes
P103
11 – 11:30 AM
Reflections on Study Abroad in Israel/Palestine
This summer, Bushnell students and faculty studied abroad in Israel and Palestine. This ACE day presentation will provide reflections on sights seen and lessons learned. Topics covered include: pilgrimage, the Arab-Israeli conflict, archaeology, and spiritual engagement with the “Fifth Gospel” another name for the Holy Land.
BTM 307, Archaeology and the Bible
James Berry & Melisa Ortiz Berry
P114
2:30 – 4 PM
Theodora
Telling the story of the primary source of Theodora. Explaining her and Justinian. Explain how she became empress. What she wanted to accomplish. How she accomplished her task. Her death and if/how it affected the people.
HIST 331, History of Christianity I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Haus and Garden new product promotion
We are creating and promoting a new product design for the company Haus and Garden.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Pursuit of Divine purpose
I will be telling and comparing the story of Gilgamesh quest for immortality (Utnapishtim’s flood account) and Noah’s ark. Both of these people have unique stories of venturing into the unknown and coming back with greater wisdom. More importantly I want to speak about the overall message of why this is significant to us humans. I want to drive home the fact that everybody is capable of magnifcent things not just those who have already done it. The theme of the story is to strive for your divine purpose and live life righteously.
HIST 161, World History I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Biochemical Pregnancies
Biochemical pregnancies are an early-stage miscarriage and one of the most common types. Unfortunately, it can take an emotional toll on the parents who are trying to conceive a child. In this paper, I go through some of the reasons that this event may occur. It is first important to understand the process of fertilization, implantation, and development of the conceptus. With an understanding, it is easier to grasp the complexities of pregnancy and why mistakes may occur during development. Early miscarriage can occur for a few different reasons. Research has found that most occur from chromosomal abnormalities, specifically aneuploidy and sperm DNA fragmentation. There is also evidence that there can be endometrial complications. The thickness of the endometrium plays a role in keeping the fertilized egg alive. Findings also suggest that implantation can determine if a biochemical pregnancy happens. The mother’s uterus can reject the implanting embryo, and there seems to be a preferred window of implantation that allows the conceptus to survive. Most interestingly, it has been found that women who undergo in-vitro fertilization are less likely to have an early miscarriage when compared to those who have a sporadic pregnancy. While there is some research dedicated to answering the question of why chemical pregnancies occur, there is not much dedicated to preventative measures. Evidence does suggest that there are a few, specifically preventing aneuploidy, but there are minimal resources dedicated to this research. Overall, biochemical pregnancies are an unfortunate occurrence that plagues many women, and because of this, more time and resources need to be dedicated to research on early pregnancy loss.
BIOL 499, Senior Capstone
Paul Allee
Womack 100
1:30 – 2 PM
Are Morals and Ethical Standards Heaven Worthy?
In the classical era, Persians adopted a new religion. This belief was known as Zoroastrianism. It became super popular in Iran. As time progressed Zoroastrianism ideas seeped its way into Christianity, Judaism and Islamic practices. These ideas came from a man name Zarathustra. . It has been thought that he was once a priest that left his duties because he wasn’t happy with the conservative form of religion. He traveled for many years and came to believe that Ahura Mazda was the “supreme god“. He felt Ahura Mazda chose him to be a prophet. Zarathustra began to write down details of Zoroastrianism. Some of these thoughts included that Ahura Mazda was the good spirit and how Ahriman was the evil spirit. He preached that being good and having morals were all that was needed to reach heaven. He preached that a person just has to be good. The Bible talks about needing to know Jesus Christ as Savior to get to go to heaven. The religion of Zoroastrianism is very deceptive as it only builds itself on being good and having moral values and ethical standards. It leaves out all the hard things like giving up oneself for the Lord Jesus to follow him and only concentrate on all the easy parts. If a person doesn’t believe he is sinning then more thought to be good. Even things that would be considered sin would be classified as good.
HIST 161, World History I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
The Association Between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Cognitive Impairment in Adulthood
In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 23 journal articles, both empirical studies and literature reviews, dating from 2013 to 2023 examining the association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cognitive impairment in adulthood. Many researchers found significant results suggesting that the decline in the cognitive function of memory is associated with PTSD. Additionally, researchers concluded that neurocognitive disorder is strongly associated with PTSD, but the specific neurocognitive disorder of Alzheimer’s disease is not directly correlated with PTSD. Furthermore, it has been discovered that the comorbid relationship of PTSD and depressive symptoms is the strongest correlation with cognitive impairment. When it is not comorbid, PTSD is more closely associated with cognitive impairment than other mental disorders. A few limitations within the research are that many of the studies included symptoms of mental disorders and not clinical diagnoses, the sample sizes of some studies were not large enough to make a generalization of the researched population, and there is not enough evidence to suggest a causal relationship between PTSD and cognitive impairment.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
Womack 100
10 – 10:30 AM
Story of the flood from The Epic of Gilgamesh
In the “Epic of Gilgamesh,” the story of the flood is a pivotal episode that parallels the biblical narrative of Noah’s Ark. The gods, angered by humanity’s noise and overpopulation, decide to unleash a catastrophic flood to wipe out all life. The god Ea, however, warns the hero, Utnapishtim, instructing him to build a large boat to preserve the seed of all living things. Utnapishtim, along with his family, craftsmen, and animals, survives the flood. Afterward, he releases a series of birds to find dry land, and when a dove fails to return, indicating the existence of solid ground, they disembark. The flood narrative in the Epic of Gilgamesh explores themes of mortality, divine intervention, and the cyclical nature of life and death. This story is considered one of the earliest literary accounts of a great flood in human mythology.
HIST 161, World History I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Listening Project
Guy Itzchakov defines high quality listening as listening that offers empathy, interest-taking, and unconditional regard.
Bushnell University traditional undergraduates are emerging adults. Monisha Pasupathi’s research shows that high quality listening helps emerging adults become more confident in their adult decisions through emerging adulthood.
What I sought to do is provide a space in the community to discuss what it takes to practice high quality listening and how easy it can be. During a gathering of Bushnell students at chapel I explained the elements of high quality listening and in one gathering we practiced high quality listening.
I then asked students throughout the next 3 weeks to practice the skills to develop comfortability in high quality listening. Once they had practiced this level of high quality listening they were to put stickers on a poster board in Womack Hall as a checkmark of their practice. I sought to get 30 stickers on this poster
After the 3 weeks had passed we had a total of 15 stickers on the poster board
COMM 499, Senior Capstone
Doyle Srader
Richardson 100
11 – 11:30 AM
Haus and Garten New Product Recommendation
We will be creating a presentation that highlights a potential new product for Haus and Garten. This product is an multi-setting hose nozzle. The presentation will include target market information, promotional materials, and prototypes of the product. This presentation will center around the “4 P’s” of marketing: product, price, place, and promotion.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
CC’s
CC’s is a profitable business that sells drinks and pastries. In addition, they offer Christian supplies that customers can read, talk about, etc. This cafe will be a safe environment for Christian college students to come and have study groups, read on their own, do homework, or just enjoy a meal. The location of this business will be close to college campuses, so college students who do not have transportation can walk. In addition, this cafe will support diversity, accepting others no matter who they are. Competitors such as: Perugino, Palace Coffee | Bakery, and Studio One Café will be addressed. Along with the starting cost that would range from $100,000 to $1 million.
BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Examining the Use of the Transfer Portal
The NCAA transfer portal has opened up many opportunities for collegiate athletes. However, due to NIL deals and other factors, the transfer portal has led to issues in Ethics, specifically where athletes’ morals and values lie within an athletic program. This tool has brought questions to the term “loyalty” among student-athletes. Issues include the increase of athletes entering the portal each year, coaches cannot create a culture if their players come and leave each year, coaches saving money for transfers rather than incoming freshmen, etc. Our solution to our ethical dilemma is implementing a new rule restricting undergraduate student-athletes from transferring until they fully complete two years at their current university. This solution gives them an opportunity to face their problems and try their best to work with the environment they are in. In addition, more money can be used for incoming freshmen rather than coaches saving money on transfers.
BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Haus and Garten tool kit
presenting a new product for haus and garten
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Nonverbal Environmental Cues in Transitional Facilities for the Unhoused
Nonverbal environmental cues play major roles in communicating messages but often slide by unnoticed. This training includes takeaways for participants regarding space size, space density, space noise, space focal points, and space lighting. Participants may apply this information at their transitional facilities for the unhoused.
COMM 430, Nonverbal Communication
Doyle Srader
Womack 100
2:30 – 3 PM
The Therapeutic Benefits of Well-Integrated Religion and Spirituality
In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed the findings of 18 peer-reviewed, empirical studies dating from 2001 to 2022. The goal of this review was to determine effective methods of integrating religion and spirituality into counseling. In addition, I focused on some of the mental and physical benefits of religion and spirituality in the face of struggles, such as trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, and chronic illness. In the last 20 years, the constructs of religion and spirituality and their relation to mental health have increasingly become the subject of research. Most studies have shown that including religion and spirituality in counseling is helpful for patients who value religion and spirituality. There are various assessments that counselors can include during intake and treatment which help gauge the client’s religion and spirituality as well as help the counselor to protect against bias. There is evidence suggesting that the integration of these into counseling increases positive affect, strengthens the client-counselor relationship, and increases positive treatment outcomes. Religion and spirituality as coping strategies lose effectiveness in adolescents as they age. Additionally, religion and spirituality have also been found to be detrimental to clients who do not have strong theodicies and clients with low levels of engagement in faith. Negative religious coping strategies were also found to be associated with more negative outcomes in comparison to individuals who use positive or other non-religious coping strategies.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
Womack 100
10:30 – 11 AM
Effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Head Injuries on Athletes
In this synthesis-based evidence paper, I reviewed findings from 17 different empirical articles from 2015 to 2023 to provide an overview of findings on the lasting effects of head injuries and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) on athletes. The term CTE was derived in 1940 from Bowman and Blau. They define CTE as a neurodegenerative condition that is thought to be partially brought on by repeated head trauma. The results from the peer-reviewed articles revealed the severity and far-reaching effects frequent head traumas can have. These traumatic brain injuries (TBI) affect the patient’s psychological and physiological states of mind. Findings between the articles showed similar lasting consequences of CTE across different athletes. Results revealed that high-contact sports, and in rare cases, low-contact sports, can result in lasting head trauma and potential neurocognitive impairments. Most researchers agreed that playing in a high-contact sport like football for long enough will eventually cause some sort of traumatic brain injury, or potentially CTE. Some limitations to the research on CTE and head injuries were that the results could not be generalized around the globe, studies on CTE are done postmortem, and there are no findings on the immediate effects of CTE. The development of techniques for diagnosing CTE during life, as well as additional research into the validity, precision, and practicality of the recently released diagnostic criteria for CTE, are imperative to address these, and other significant concerns for head trauma.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
Womack 100
11 – 11:30 AM
A Holistic Approach to Treating Spiritual and Religious Abuse and Trauma
Spiritual and religious abuse and trauma is a topic that is being discussed with more frequency in Western culture today. With a high prevalence of this type of abuse and trauma (Oakley & Kinmond, 2014; Shellnut, 2019), it is important for mental health providers to know how to recognize S/R abuse and trauma and know the best treatment modalities for those who have been wounded by it. This paper discusses the nature of S/R abuse and trauma and describes the psychological and spiritual harm that victims incur at the hands of their abusers. Additionally, the topic of what common personality features make people vulnerable to S/R abuse and trauma is addressed and a description of the maladaptive tendencies of people who misuse power to hurt others will also be discussed. This paper also highlights the research of helpful treatment models that have been shown to be efficacious in bringing healing to victims of S/R abuse and trauma. Lastly, the author highlights his own gleanings from the research on beneficial principles for the treatment of S/R abuse and trauma.
CMHC 699, Capstone
Abraham Cazares-Cervantes
Siefke 100
11 AM – Noon
Plant Subscription Service (H&G)
I have created a plant subscription service for Haus and Garten for marketing 230. This is marketed towards gen z, focusing on self expression, feeling connected to nature, and ease of entrance.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Final Research Project
We are intending to research the topic of sports betting and how it impacts the sports culture and regulations. Whether it is impacting the fans, players, or organizations, we want to understand the negative and positive outcomes such as sports marketing strategies and gambling addiction. There are many arguments for and against sports betting. Some say betting is unethical and corrupt, while others suggest sports betting can be beneficial to the sports industry. We decided to research this topic so we could gather information and decide if sports betting is ethical or if it should be discontinued based on the health and well-being of the sports society.
BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Confucianism and Good Governance
Confucius was one of the greatest Chinese philosophers of all time. He played a vital role in establishing the ethical, moral, and social standards that formed the basis of his way of living, which would later be called Confucianism. This was the first belief system of that time to highlight the importance of inner morality over other actions. Confucius also shared that ethics should play an important role in society, and that the importance of the individual consciousness, along with personal ethics should be implemented to start the foundation of a Good Government. To conclude this thought, the story of Confucianism and Good Governance is one of deep intrigue and one that needs to be shared.
HIST 161, World History I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Tertullian
I am not sure how it will go.
HIST 331, History of Christianity I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Project: Small Business Idea
We are presenting our business idea and showing how we interwove it with faith based values.
BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Haus & Garten Product Idea
I am presenting my product idea for Haus & Garten and why it could be beneficial to their business.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
BAM Project
I developed a Child daycare business, “Candy’s Home Day Care,” a unique home-based childcare service in our community that integrates the rich traditions of Chinese culture with Christian values. Our goal is to provide a safe, loving, and culturally enriching environment where every child is valued and embraced as an individual. By drawing inspiration from Christian teachings of love, compassion, and community, as well as the vibrant heritage of Chinese culture, we aim to nurture young minds and hearts. Our holistic approach includes language, customs, and spiritual growth and fosters a sense of belonging and understanding. At Candy’s Home Day Care, we strive to be more than just a childcare facility. We are a bridge that connects diverse cultures and a sanctuary where faith and heritage merge to create a foundation for lifelong learning and a harmonious community.
BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
A marketing plan for Haus & Garten
Based on the SWOT analysis of Haus and Garten, I have identified an opportunity to introduce a new product that aligns with the company’s signature products, which aim to enhance customer service and drive sales. The new product is a foldable, easy-to-carry garden stool that can benefit the company.
Enhancing Customer Service: This garden stool is designed for our customers’ comfort and convenience. It provides them a comfortable and portable seating solution while they tend to their gardens. By offering this product, we aim to elevate their gardening experience and show our commitment to their well-being.
Driving Sales: The introduction of this stool not only enhances our customer service but also presents a new revenue stream. It caters specifically to our target demographic, providing a valuable addition to our product range that aligns perfectly with the needs and preferences of our current customer base.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Nonverbals and Sales: Decoding, Encoding, and Charisma
Nonverbal communication plays an extremely significant role during sales encounters. Learners will learn how to decode nonverbal signals from a salesperson’s perspective. They will also practice different techniques on how to encode their own nonverbal behaviors to come across as more charismatic to future clients.
COMM 430, Nonverbal Communication
Doyle Srader
Womack 100
3:30 – 4 PM
Injury Policies in Professional Sports
We are going to evaluate and compare injury policies in the NFL, NBA, and NHL. Injury policies include injury prevention, management, and rehabilitation. We are also going to look at the financial impact of injuries on the players and the organization.
BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Haus & Garten Product Idea
I decided to make a gardening hand-tool kit for the company Haus & Garten and I plan on making a promotional campaign for my product.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Composition Kiosk
For the poster presentation, I intend to cover what my business plan is and how its mission will be involved in it. I will take a look at costs and what will be required to make my business.
BUS 240, Theology and Practice of Business as Mission
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Gladiators in Ancient Rome
To start out I will be talking about the weapons and rules for gladiatorial combat. Next, I will be talking about the survival rates of gladiatorial combat along with the different types of combat or games there were. Lastly, I will be talking about key gladiatorial figures, their stories, and how they affected the games.
HIST 375, Ancient Rome
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Continuous Glucose Monitors
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are changing the way providers treat and manage diabetes. It is time to utilize the power of connection through technology for our health and well-being. The number of people with diabetes is increasing around the world. Assistive technology can play a vital role in addressing major complications associated with diabetes. Studies show that utilization of CGM devices can dramatically help patients make smarter decisions about food and activity in the moment to better control blood glucose levels. Better control means fewer health complications and a better quality of life for those struggling to manage this disease.
IDS 499, Senior Capstone
James Berry
10 AM – Noon
Questioning the Journey
Telling a story connected to the story of Gilgamesh.
HIST 161, World History I
Stephen Andes
P103
1 – 4 PM
Athlete Mental Health Management.
Taking a look at what institutions are doing to protect and treat athletes mental health at a collegiate level of play.
BUS 325, Sports and Recreation Management
Pete Diffenderfer
10 AM – Noon
Gardner 3000 Presentation
I created two gardening products and a presentation to introduce the product.
MKTG 230, Intro to Marketing
Christy Silverthorne
Bucher Room
1 – 2:30 PM
Image Processing using Convolutional Neural Network
My project will be image processing using convolutional neural networks. This will be a machine learning project.
Ernest Bonat
L203 (click here to view the live stream)
11 – 11:30 AM