Grayson Bolanos

Beyond Words: The Power of Gesture in the Classroom

This project attempts to synthesize some of the research on gesturing and classroom learning to examine how gesturing can shape teaching effectiveness and student learning. Reviewing research on how gestures support thinking and communication, how tone of voice influences motivation and relational closeness, and how teachers’ nonverbal behaviors contribute to student engagement and achievement. Together, the presentation will attempt to demonstrate how effective communication in education relies on the alignment of verbal and nonverbal cues, underscoring the need for teachers to intentionally develop expressive, supportive, and contextually appropriate nonverbal skills.

COMM 430, Nonverbal Communication

Doyle Srader

Goodrich 204

10 AM – Noon

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Grayson Bolanos

Pixels and Piety

This capstone project examines whether participation in collegiate esports influences the relationship between students’ preference for online social interaction and their level of Christian contentment at a Christian university. The written review surveys existing research on online social interaction, problematic Internet use, emotional regulation, Christian contentment, and daily spiritual experiences to evaluate how digital communities may shape spiritual development. Because esports teams communicate and build community primarily through virtual platforms, this project investigates whether such environments can function as a form of Christian fellowship for Christian students who favor online interaction. Through a literature review, empirical study, and presentation, the project explores how digital team-based engagement might support or hinder spiritual well-being within Christian higher education. 

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader

Goodrich 103

2 – 2:30 PM

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Ellie Arzie, Jacob Belz, Grayson Bolanos, Benjamin Collins, Ryan Fike, Angel Iheanyi-Igwe, Taylor Jackson, Grace Kitchens, Sidney Lane, Nicholas McGowen, Mason Monrroy, Karis Price, Mati Richardson, Brodie Riscili, Keziah Santik, Ethan Unruh, Martha Valverde & Bailey Will

BTM 213 Christian Doctrine Theology Projects

Theology Festival: An hour-long celebration showcasing student theology projects based on the doctrines in the Nicene Creed. Experience a diversity of theological expression through discussion series, visual journals, podcasts, experience diaries, music portfolios, and research papers. Each student will provide a brief overview of their chosen doctrine and its practical applications. Come and see how theological concepts are brought to life through formats that honor different learning styles and creative strengths.

BTM 213, Christian Doctrine

Agam Iheanyi-Igwe & Jared Dodson

L203

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2 – 3 PM

Grayson Bolanos, Jon Kleespies & Sara Martin

From Grades to Growth

The first section highlights how Learning at Bushnell (L@B) builds fellowship by encouraging students to grow together through shared learning experiences. It explores how meaningful relationships, group discussions, and mentorship create a stronger sense of community where students can support one another and learn in a more connected and lasting way. The next section will explore the value of education and lifelong learning within a Christian context, emphasizing the pursuit of wisdom as a reflection of God’s truth. It will examine how faith and knowledge complement each other, highlighting Biblical principles that encourage intellectual growth, critical thinking, and the development of character. The last section will present the potential success of having learning at Bushnell having a chapel credit in the near future. This will discuss the benefits for not only the athletes who have limited opportunities during their seasons but also discuss how it would bring more incentive to participate more consistently. 

COMM 450, Persuasion

Doyle Srader

L204

1:30 – 2 PM

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Grayson Bolaños & Spencer Hoffman

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

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