Tag: Capstone

Abigail Askew

Street Outreach as opposed to Street Preaching: The Importance of Theologically Sound Evangelism

Street preaching, sometimes referred to as open-air preaching, is, in simple terms, the act of sharing the Gospel and biblical truths in a public setting. While this sounds like a great means of reaching unbelievers who wouldn’t otherwise be likely to enter into a church to receive the word, it is ineffective at best and harmful at worst. Most street preachers use methods that do not paint a proper picture of Christianity, rooted in a poor understanding of theology. In order to properly share the Gospel message in public forums, speakers must have a proper understanding of both the theology of evangelism and the process of salvation, as well as the psychology behind receiving feedback. The best way to accomplish this is through relationship-building evangelism and outreach methods.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

Pomajevich 114

11 – 11:30 AM

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Hannah Beers

Perfectionism in Christian Musical Worship

Pastors and church leaders are not immune from perfectionism; in fact perfectionism is very common in the church. Does this attitude of perfectionism held by leaders effect their ministry and their congregations? I intend to prove, through scholarly sources and research that perfectionism is sometimes dangerous but can be handled in a healthy way. This research address primarily church leaders and pastors but is also relevant to anyone involved in a church, especially worship. First, I explore a Christian perspective of perfection in comparison to a secular psychological one. Second, I research musical worship and the spiritual formation that happens when one worships. I also explore how perfectionism effects this formation process, and if the attitudes of the leader play a role. Third, I will demonstrate what types of perfectionism are dangerous in business leadership roles and apply them to the church structures. This research establishes that some forms of perfectionism and beneficial to healthy striving, but some are obsessive and damaging. I will conclude by giving some practical tips for how to manage perfectionism in yourself, and how to lead without leaving a bad example for our volunteers and congregations.

CM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

Pomajevich 103

10 – 10:30 AM

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Xanti Celaya

Capstone Proposal: Addiction, Redemption, and the Church: A Sociological and Theological Perspective

Addiction is a pressing issue in our times causing great harm to families and communities every day. I intend to prove that Christians in America are uniquely and advantageously positioned to address the addiction crisis and help addicts find meaningful recovery. First I will explore the state of the American addiction crisis and the factors that complicate finding recovery. Second I will describe the current state of the Christian response to addiction and explore how the ideas, resources and institutions put forward by Christins are addressing this issue head on today. Third I will use the best scholarly and theological resources to briefly describe what a heathy theological outlook and methodology could look like for an individual or local church looking for opportunities to serve people battling addiction In doing this I will also demonstrate how Christians have a future serving in this space. I will advocate for Christians to continue to invest money and energy into the cause of addiction recovery by providing practical ways for my listener to get involved.

CM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

Pomajevich 103

10:30 – 11 AM

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Ruby Daniels

The Placebo Effect as Treatment for Depression

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 15 empirical studies between 2015 and 2025 to summarize the effectiveness of placebo treatment for depression. In addition, I utilized the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5 TR) to underscore the clinical aspects of depression with a greater focus on the diagnostic criteria. The number of individuals diagnosed with depression has increased significantly over the past few decades, and researchers have been tasked with finding alternative treatments for this population. Given the low-risk nature of placebo treatments, there have been increased efforts to evaluate placebo treatments in clinical settings. In this paper, I outlined the specific features of the placebo effect, delving into its history, complexities, success, ethical concerns, and its effectiveness. With the rise in placebo research, scientists have found that individuals with depression are highly influenced by the placebo effect, especially when compared to individuals who are taking antidepressants. Aside from medication, placebos have been compared to alternative approaches to treatment, such as psychotherapy and physical exercise, along with the benefits of the cooccurrence of multiple treatments. Ethical concerns regarding deception and the nocebo effect have been debated within the scientific community, with the consensus being that open-label placebos are the moral solution to treatment. While there have been successful studies on open-label placebos for depression, it is evident that a larger sample of participants is needed for this type of study. Furthermore, studies on placebo treatment approaches have found that the dual expectations of participants and researchers play a large role in the success of the placebo. Moving forward, it is important to foster safe and positive environments within research studies and clinical settings to maximize the impact of placebo treatments.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

10 – 10:30 AM

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Myka Delamarter

Psychological Foundations of Crime: Understanding Motivation, Behavior, and Rehabilitation

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 17 empirical studies published between 2019 to 2024 to understand the cognitive and behavioral patterns within criminal behavior. This field of study encompasses the analysis of thoughts, behaviors, and underlying motivations that contribute to criminal attitudes. Criminal psychologists, also known as forensic psychologists, investigate these patterns to provide evidence-based explanations for deviant behavior. These contributions to the criminal justice system are essential because it offers a psychological perspective on the factors that influence criminal behavior. A particular focus on psychopathy—a personality disorder characterized by emotional, interpersonal behavior, and impulsivity—are relevant in forensic psychology. By investigating these psychological factors, criminal psychologists contribute to identifying the root causes of criminal actions and developing appropriate intervention strategies. Their work is not only implemented in legal proceedings, but it also informs rehabilitation efforts and policy-driven actions to address criminal behavior. Understanding the connection between mental disorders and criminal behavior is vital for developing comprehensive approaches when managing crime within society. Some limitations from the research conducted was that researchers discovered that self-reports limited the expansion of their studies. This also caused bias opinions and hindered the outcome. Ultimately, the findings supported the integration of psychological expertise into the justice system and improves our understanding of criminal behavior.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

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Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

10:30 – 11 AM

Maddii Desemone

Coral Reefs: Battling Against the Odds

Coral reefs have always brought a sense of awe to the oceans, making them less daunting and more colorful. They are romanticized in movies and documentaries, yet very little said about how they are in danger of going extinct. Just like every other organism that has been endangered, corals are clearly suffering on multiple fronts: growth, reproduction, and finding food. The zooxanthellae living within their tissues supplies them with their food, but due to the increasing water temperature and acidity levels, these photosynthetic algae are being forced out, leaving the corals a stark white, a process called coral bleaching. Ocean acidification is a leading cause of corals being unable to grow and reproduce, which is ultimately leading to hardships for coral reef ecosystems and coastal communities that depend on the biodiversity to feed their families and economies. However, laws and measures have been put in place to better help the corals recover, scientists are learning how to grow coral, and everyday people are finding ways to lower their greenhouse gas emissions so less ends up affecting the oceans. While there is still a lot to be done and a lot to change, there is still a lot of hope for the future of coral reefs.

BIOL 499, Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

Womack 100

2 – 2:30 PM

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Aaron Gold

The Link Between Excessive Screen Time and GPA

I reviewed 40 empirical studies and meta-analyses ranging from 2011 to 2025 in this evidence-based synthesis paper. Additionally, I utilized the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition Text Revision (DSM-5-TR; American Psychiatric Association, 2022), the International Classification of Diseases Eleventh Revision (ICD-11; World Health Organization, 2021), some government statistical websites, and one student survey. I used these sources to research the connection between screen time and grade point average (GPA). Additional factors I discussed included sleep, physical activity, level of addiction, and time-management. The findings conflict as to whether screen time can directly affect GPA; however, regarding physical activity and sleep I found significant contributions to academic performance. In this paper I also discussed the definition of addiction, and I reviewed studies advocating for a broadened and more specific definition for addiction. Some limitations included the samples mainly consisting of nursing students and underdeveloped research regarding behavioral addiction. Future research could include more graduate-level students, a more diverse sample from a broader population, as well as research into behavioral addiction and their potential neurobiological bases.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

11 – 11:30 AM

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Seth Handman

Duty: The Downfall of The Hero

Heroes, especially male heroes, are often portrayed as physically powerful and masculine in literature.This tradition in English literature began with the character Beowulf and continues into modern day film and literature. In order for these characters to be truly human and relatable, they must show weaknesses. In fact the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of a hero may provide a true window into the character’s heart and motivation. In this presentation, I compare the eponymous character of Beowulf and Okonkwo in Thing Fall Apart, both of whom are supernaturally strong, hyper-masculine, hero-like protagonists with a deep sense of duty. I argue that it is their sense of duty that ultimately led to their downfalls.

ENG 499, Senior Capstone

Connie Diffenderfer

Pomajevich 114

10 – 10:30 AM

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Sara Hart

The Long-Term Effects of Childhood Trauma on Adult Relationships and Attachment Styles

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings across 24 empirical studies from 2009 to 2025 to summarize how childhood trauma affects adult attachment styles, specifically secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment. Childhood trauma creates enduring changes in emotional control and attachment styles which ultimately may influence a person’s capacity to develop and sustain healthy relationships in adulthood. In this paper, I investigated the lasting impact of early trauma, which often manifests as trust issues; fear of abandonment; and challenges in conflict resolution, commitment, and intimacy. I examined the development of symptoms like fear of closeness or dependency and explored how unresolved trauma can influence parenting, potentially leading to transfer intergenerationally. In my synthesis, I also reviewed therapeutic interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and attachment-based therapies that aim at healing attachment wounds and fostering secure adult relationships. I discovered that the research emphasized that self-awareness together with emotional work and supportive relationships and resilience serve as essential tools for people to overcome early adversity. Additionally, I identified two main research limitations which include small sample diversity and self-report data reliance, and I suggested future research directions to study trauma recovery. I concluded by emphasizing the need for expanded mental health services and increased public awareness to promote healthier relationships and disrupt cycles of intergenerational trauma.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

11:30 AM – Noon

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Isabella Hernandez

The Impact of Sports Participation on Children’s Biopsychosocial Development

In this evidence-based synthesis review, I focused on the biopsychosocial effects of team sports on adolescence maturation. I analyzed 15 articles dating from 2015 to 2024, in which the researchers were finding positive and negative effects. In this synthesis paper, I aimed to understand how activity levels shaped their development through the different stages of adolescence. This review highlights the negative effects of early specialization, overworking, and stress, which can hinder adolescents’ maturation. This revealed research about psychological maturation, the effects of how parents can determine dedication, coaches shape mindsets, and the benefits of remaining active during adolescence. Additionally, I examined the physical effects of sports, including injury risk, improvements in overall strength and physical health, enhancements in well-being, and the effects of same age and different age play. This review illustrates how sports can serve as a preventative measure by allowing children to learn basic time-management and engagement, reducing the likelihood of delinquent behaviors. I also compared sports participation with other extracurricular activities, revealing that both have similar positive effects on adolescent maturation. Finally, I addressed certain limitations and future research such as community restrictions, parental influence, and individual factors. I concluded that sports participation offers numerous benefits, including enhanced social interactions, increased social support, improved physical ability, emotional intelligence, attention span, and decision-making skills.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

1 – 1:30 PM

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Breanna Hilton

The Impact of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms on Children in School

In my analysis paper, I reviewed research on one of the most common childhood disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this analysis paper, I synthesized a total of 23 studies done between 2014 and 2025, with 22 of the research articles from the last five years. The studies were about children with ADHD symptoms in school, a variety of interventions, school specific effects, as well as other factors. The goal of this analysis paper was to analyze studies on the symptoms of ADHD that children experience. I also discussed common interventions used to treat ADHD as well as newer successful interventions. Medication has become the typical treatment when it comes to ADHD interventions, but there are many other successful interventions that may be better for the child. I also addressed the importance of proper and early diagnosis in children because it can significantly affect the child’s development. Parents and teachers are accountable for the child’s development and success in the classroom and in everyday life. The studies presented many strengths including the representation of multiple cultures and the room for future research. The studies took place in different cultures around the world and was not limited to the United States. There is room for future research and the studies presented the importance of continued research. One limitation that came up in the research were that most studies were measured by subjective reports, meaning someone rated the severity of ADHD symptoms before and after. This can be subjective based on the person’s judgement and opinion. Another limitation was that a few studies were conducted with a small number of participants. This is important to consider, because a few people don’t properly represent a big population of people. Lastly, another limitation was that a few studies were self-reported which can create skewed data. Overall, the research articles provided valuable data and allows for future research.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

1:30 – 2 PM

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Alexia Krogh

Suffering in Catholic Literature

The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene and “Revelation” by Flannery O’Connor are known for their depictions of suffering and grace. In examining these texts, we can see the ways that suffering might be considered a grace that ultimately leads to redemption. This aligns with Biblical passages such as 1 Peter 4 and Hebrews 2. When reading these works of literature alongside scripture, we can begin to answer big questions such as, “Why is there suffering in the world?”

ENG 499, Senior Capstone

Connie Diffenderfer

Pomajevich 114

10:30 – 11 AM

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Brett Olmstead

Overcoming Sports Idolatry

Following Jesus can become very difficult when you are surrounded by the world of sports. Sports can easily take away our time and make us more focused on our success than we are focused on God’s purpose for our lives. The problem is that we often make our sports an idol and lose sight of God, and the Church suffers because of this. I will walk us through why giving God the glory is how we get rid of sports idolatry because, 1. we look beyond ourselves when we glorify God, 2. when we look beyond ourselves we use sports for God’s purposes instead of our purposes, 3. when we do sports for God’s purposes instead of our purposes, we overcome idolatry. Because the solution to overcoming sports idolatry is giving God the glory, I will advocate that we do our best to use our sports to witness to others rather than seek our own glory.

BTM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

1 – 1:30 PM

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Juda Ortega

The Digital Body of Christ: Can the Virtual Church Fulfill the New Testament Model?

This presentation explores whether the virtual church can fulfill the model of the New Testament church during times of crisis. It focuses on five essential practices found in the early church: fellowship, worship, baptism, the Eucharist, and the exercise of spiritual gifts. While virtual platforms can help believers remain spiritually engaged and connected during disruptions such as pandemics or persecution, some practices raise theological and practical concerns. Drawing from Scripture and historical examples of how the church has adapted under pressure, this presentation argues that the virtual church can temporarily carry out many core functions of the New Testament church. Though not a permanent replacement for an embodied community, the virtual church offers a faithful way for the body of Christ to remain unified and active when gathering in person is not possible.

BTM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

1:30 – 2 PM

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Sydney Petersen

Coronary Artery Disease

I am investigating the means and purpose behind why coronary artery disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide in America. This aims to show findings and research behind the impact of coronary artery disease and its role in heart disease in America. My methods in these findings were conducted through an extensive research of these categories, historical findings, signs and symptoms, baseline differences between males and females, risk factors, pathophysiology and investigation, Diagnosis, prevention, and effective treatment of the disease. I have found through these methods that there is no cure for coronary artery disease, but we can sufficiently provide effective surgeries and medications to help extend your life. In conclusion, my research and effective researching methods have given substantial recognition of this disease and provide a knowledgeable standpoint towards an effective explanation of coronary artery disease, while explaining each category, but including a focus on effective treatment of this disease. 

BIOL 499, Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

L204

10 – 10:30 AM

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Nate Rasmussen

Anatomy is Destiny: How Anatomical Features Affect Performance in Baseball

This project deciphers how anatomy can affect baseball performance in a multitude of ways, using Bushnell University’s pitchers as my study group. While some college and most professional teams have access to high-end baseball technology that comes with a pricetag, the rest of the baseball world is left in advanced data darkness. A study was conducted using a questionnaire to determine multiple data points on pitchers. Topics such as mobility, velocity, and strength were discussed in the questionnaire to gain a full understanding of the player. Data was then correlated to find meaning behind the numbers. Regression models were also run, showing promising results for predictive metrics. The results of the study were then analyzed, revealing the important trends in the data that can be applied to an all-encompassing training regimen. The goal of this study was to create a tool, termed ‘The RasmussenProtocol’, to aid in advanced player development without the need for technology. The protocol is unique to the baseball world, as it accounts for all different types of anatomical and performance metrics. The result is a roadmap on how to develop players of all backgrounds within baseball, with accessibility at the forefront of everything.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

Pomajevich 114

11:30 AM – Noon

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Brandon Reed

Effects Of Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs on Athletic Performance and Recovery

The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is widespread among all types of athletes seeking quick relief from pain and inflammation caused by injuries. However, this reliance on NSAIDs can lead to serious long-term health risks if not carefully managed. My capstone looks at the benefits and drawbacks of NSAID use in athletic settings. Pointing out the importance of thoughtful and limited use in our day-to-day life. I am advocating for a more holistic approach to recovery in athletics. A recovery system that emphasizes natural healing and a combination of strategies rather than routine medication use. Encouraging athletes to try a more balanced and long-term, sustainable pain management plan that can enhance performance and preserve health after they are done with their athletic careers. As the NSAID field continues to grow, more research is needed to understand the full impact of NSAIDs and discover safer, more effective options for some sports-related injuries.

BIOL 499, Senior Capstone

Paul Allee

Womack 100

2:30 – 3 PM

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Harmony Simmons

The Silent Victims: Understanding the Psychological Impact of Deportation on Children

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings from 16 empirical studies published between 2016 and 2025, all of which aimed to study the effects of parental deportation on their U.S. citizen children. More specifically, I focused on the prevalence of prolonged feelings of insecurity and fear in this child population that may persist into an exacerbated manner or in the form of a mental disorder. As a supplementary research tool, I utilized the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) to draw comparisons between the unique experiences of participants of these studies and diagnostic criteria for mental disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and a major depressive episode (MDE). The legality of parental deportation has been studied for decades, with the primary concern being the subsequent effects on their children’s physical and emotional well-being. More recently, the political and societal relevance of parental deportation within the U.S. and its growing complexity have driven researchers to study its effects more intensely. The difficulty in researching this topic has increased as the number of mixed-status households has risen over time. In 2022, the Pew Research Center reported that approximately 4.4 million U.S. born children under 18 lived with an unauthorized immigrant parent. Within each study, there was not enough evidence to suggest psychopathology as the result of parental deportation, which may be attributed to the lack of awareness or terminology for children to describe their experiences. However, most researchers discovered profound, negative effects of parental deportation on children. The self-report measures used in most studies served as a limitation because of their susceptibility to various forms of bias. Future research directions should aim to identify pre-existing community support systems and determine their effectiveness while simultaneously increasing the implementation of accessible mental health systems for children who have experienced parental deportation.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

2:30 – 3 PM

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Amanda Sisul

How Interning Changed My Perspective on the Publishing Industry

Interning at Harvest House Publishers in Eugene has given me the opportunity to directly apply concepts from my Public Relations (PR) courses in the fast-paced publishing industry. I started my internship by completing work and adapting to the rigorous publishing schedule of more than 20 books each season. Over time, I learned new skills from my supervisor and colleagues and was offered more elaborate and challenging tasks, including content creation and working directly with clients. Being at Harvest House has ultimately shown me how different teams within the same company can have different campaign strategies and tactics while still producing profitable outcomes.

For my capstone project, I have been working with an assigned author who is publishing her first book with Harvest House. My assignments for her book have included a variety of PR and marketing tasks, all while navigating real-life deadlines, schedule changes and delayed meetings. My presentation will review my time at Harvest House, showcase the work I’ve done for my assigned client, and discuss the lessons I’ve learned that I will carry with me through my career journey.

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Kelsay Rychener

L204

1 – 1:30 PM

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Ariel Van Cleave

Bipolar Disorder: Continued Research and Interventions

This is an evidence-based synthesis paper I developed from 15 primary research articles from 2021 to 2024 as well as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). Utilizing these studies, I summarized the current research and understanding of Bipolar Disorder I and II (BD I and II), and I tracked the new intervention methods used within therapy and families with high-risk youth for BD I or II. BD has been conceived as a fluctuation between mania and depression; however, based on the current research BD is found as chronic mood instability or energy dysregulation. Other aspects of research found that BD psychosis could be correlated to early childhood traumatic stress and that comorbidity greatly affects the remission progress for individuals. While there is needed future replicated research on these findings, researchers have found that BD is a spectrum of disorders. Further research on the interventions of BD has shown that the interventions that involve family-focused therapies, cognitive behavioral therapies, and mindfulness-based cognitive therapies are more effective when combined than when applied separately. Interventions that are tailored to the individuals’ needs, and that include monitoring mood cycles and testing their resilience are further ways that researchers can seek better outcomes for individuals. One of the limitations in the studies I reviewed was the lack of generalizability. The researchers were often limited by the participants in their studies; either by the WEIRD effect, by only having binary gender participants, or by lack of participants. Further research should continue in examining how the outcomes of combined interventions can reach more individuals with BD. Furthermore, there should be an emphasis on the interventions that start early in the families with high-risk youth and how there is an importance in further understanding the cycles of moods of BD.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Siefke 100

3 – 3:30 PM

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Matthew Wilhite

Exploring How the Complex Relationship of the Individual, Culture, and the Workplace Environment Inform Job Satisfaction

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 15 research articles regarding information about job satisfaction from 2020 to 2025. Job satisfaction is a complex measure that reports an individual’s current feelings, position, and understandings with what they receive and contribute to in their line of work. When researching job satisfaction, adopting a cross-cultural lens was crucial and resulted in 10 different countries being represented in the 15 research articles used. The 10 countries represented are Belgium, China, Ethiopia, Italy, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United States. Millions of people work across the globe and utilizing a cross-cultural lens deepens our understanding of how job satisfaction is determined in a particular culture. To summarize this research, I divided the components of job satisfaction into three categories: the individual, culture, and the workplace environment. These three categories join together to influence how a person determines their own job satisfaction status. The majority of this research implied that there are various factors that influence job satisfaction rates in a positive or negative manner such as work autonomy, compensation, leadership styles, work schedules, et cetera. A few of the studies emphasized how measuring job satisfaction in a longitudinal method can reveal important job satisfaction trends in the workplace. An important conclusion I made was related to how job satisfaction can be utilized to enhance organizational productivity. Enhancing organizational productivity is essential for companies to thrive which will help them succeed because of the positive influence from the employees reporting a positive job satisfaction status. However, there are limitations found in the components used to determine job satisfaction. As we live in a dynamic world where people depend on their job to help them stay afloat in society, it is important to measure their job satisfaction as we all strive to live an enjoyable life.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Siefke 100

3:30 – 4 PM

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Ester Ambrocio

The importance of Ministry Through “Storying”

The stories we share and listen to hold value as they mend purpose and connections to our surroundings. As humans, we often are caught up in our narratives that we neglect the people around us. According to biblical teachings, God has called us to care for these individuals who have been ignored. When we listen to the stories of the people who are entrusted to our care, it allows individuals to feel seen and heard, and gives them a sense of belonging.

CM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

11 – 11:30 AM

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Madeline Brainerd

WWI Nursing in Literature vs. Real Life Experiences

Real WWI nurses experienced much more in comparison to the character Catherine Barkley and other nurses portrayed in A Farewell To Arms by William Faulkner. Real WWI nurses experienced strenuous and poor working conditions, mental health problems, gender discrimination, love, and loss.

I intend to argue my thesis by using examples from the novel A Farewell To Arms and comparing the characters’ experiences to real accounts from WWI nurses. I will be using articles written about WWI nurses, first hand accounts, and letters. I will also be using peer reviewed articles analyzing the novel I am using, which will help explain examples from the story. Topics that I will discuss are mental health, gender roles, and the overall experience of life as a war nurse. WWI nurses experienced many challenges, they witnessed horrific injuries and death, which the novel barely brushes the surface of. They also experienced adversities due to being a woman and how soldiers viewed them. The novel and some of the articles I am using, paint an interesting picture of how relationships between soldiers and nurses were at the time.

ENG 499, Senior Capstone

Connie Diffenderfer

Pomajevich 103

11:30 AM – Noon

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Caleb Burke

Biblical Prescriptions to Combat Adverse Mental-Health Effects from Social Media

One thing has defined Generation Z and Generation Alpha like no other, and this is social media. 95% of teens have access to a smartphone, and most of them are on social media. APA reports that 41% of teens with the highest social media use report having poor or very poor mental health, and 10% of them have suicidal intent or self harm within the past 12 months. The decline in mental health is indicated by a sharp rise in rates of anxiety, depression, and self-harm beginning in the early 2010s. There is clearly a connection. How should youth ministers react?

Internet companies like Youtube, Google, etc are the richest companies in the history of humanity because they are taking advantage of human psychology. As followers of Jesus, we cannot stand for yjod. They are to be protected and shown a better way. A way that involves Jesus accepting them as they are and giving them purpose. First, we will outline the problem with social media, including how it is programmed and an argument for the depressive symptoms and anxiety it causes. Second, we will look at the identity Jesus offers us, and the joy God has instore for us.

BTM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

10 – 10:30 AM

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Victor Hesser

The Biblical Use of Authority in Church Leadership

What was authority intended to look like among the followers of Christ, and how does that differ from what we see today? This thesis seeks to uncover a Scriptural understanding of authority in the church. We will look into the use of the Greek word exousia (“authority”) in the New Testament, and especially in 2 Corinthians 10:8, 13:10. These passages are part of a series of letters between Paul and a church that had been rather on and off in its submission to his guidance and authority—being swayed by other leaders to criticize his actions. Paul’s description of authority—especially within the context of the situations between him and the Corinthian church—will shed a lot of light on the broader questions I have about the use of authority in the church.

The hope is to uncover how exactly Paul used his apostolic position of authority in relation to the churches under his care, and how this sets an example for all others who find themselves in positions of church authority. This is most relevant to those in leadership positions who, like myself, want to best serve the church and avoid causing the type of damage we see all too often with mishandled authority, but it also holds importance for those under authority—that they might be able to discern healthy uses of authority from unhealthy and hold their leaders accountable.

CM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

11:30 AM – Noon

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Juda Ortega

The Role of Popular Worship Music in Attracting Followers to Theologically Questionable Teachings: A Study of Hillsong, Bethel, and Elevation Worship.

This presentation focuses on the importance of worship music to an individual’s spiritual well-being, and the danger of theologically-errant worship songs. Worship music serves as a tool for attracting followers of Christ. However, due to much Christian music out there with dangerously misleading and even false lyrics, such as Hillsong, many unsuspecting believers are then introduced to problematic theological teachings. This presentation will outline the problem, cite examples, and then propose a solution for the way forward.

BTM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

10:30 – 11 AM

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Ryan Pierce

Attitudes Towards Christianity In the United States

In the 21st century United States, Christianity has been increasingly associated with negative thoughts and attitudes by secular populations. Examining the factors that have caused theses cultural shifts is essential for ministers (all Christians) to understand how these attitudes can be changed and how best to navigate an ever-changing world. I cite three primary sources as to what cultural influences have shifted in these recent decades: Church culture, Western values, and the advent of individualism. These three pieces paint a picture of what, in my mind, are the most prominent features of shifting culture that is counter to Christianity. While we may also describe ‘individualism’ as one of the values of the West, I have intentionally separated it as an independent source as it is a weighty aspect in and of itself. We will examine the history of Christianity in the United States, secular culture, the pros and cons of Christianity and churches as perceived by the public, and what the Church can do to change the negative attitudes it now faces. We must remember one thing while exploring this topic, our objective isn’t inherently to get more individuals seated in our churches, but to be shepherds who more effectively help create more followers of Christ. The poor adaptation of churches to the world around is a prominent issue in and of itself; This is not to say that we change our beliefs, but that we adjust how we address the concerns and people around us. We must also concern ourselves with the criticisms of our churches in which they are warranted and not be defensive of our own shortcomings but learn from them.

CM 499, Senior Capstone

David Reed

L203

2 – 3 PM

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Max Richards

Addressing the Growth and Development of Mental Health Needs of Military Personnel: The Impact of Expanding Counseling Services

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 20 empirical studies that range from 2012 to 2024 to examine the rise of counseling services inside the military for personnel and veterans. This reflects an increasing recognition of their unique mental health needs and the importance of covering the challenges they experience, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders (SUDs). Military personnel face a multitude of significant stressors in their careers that can contribute to suicide ideation as well as create issues with reintegration into civilian life. The studies also addressed the role of the Veterans Administration (VA) and other organizations in helping military personnel with these mental health issues. Researchers have found it to be difficult to make changes in treatment efficacy because of the overall stigma and stereotypes that surround the military and counseling services. I also summarized research on the alternative treatment for the challenges military personnel experiences, including wilderness therapy, group counseling sessions, and different types of medicines. Overall, this analysis highlights the cultural shift toward destigmatizing mental health services in the military, while identifying the areas that cause distress and ways to better support those who have served.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

1 – 1:30 PM

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Mai Tomlin

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is more than just a random act. It is actually a vital part of both Christian faith and psychological well-being. God desires to have a relationship with us and then means that we must receive the forgiveness that Jesus purchased on the cross for us. He also wants us to give forgiveness to others. Jesus taught us to pray “…forgive us our debts and we forgive those who trespass against us.” Forgiving someone is not just at church, it is done every day, in every place we go. Besides God’s grace in salvation and forgiveness, He has provided us with a way to live in peace. There are psychological benefits to forgiving others. There are many steps and phases of forgiveness to learn and keep practicing. This capstone essay will show that forgiveness is Biblical, has proven psychological benefits, and has real world applications.

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

Womack 100

2:30 – 3 PM

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Abigail Wammock

Psychological Influences on Juvenile Delinquency: Insights for Prevention and Intervention Strategies

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings across 19 empirical studies from 2006 to 2023 to summarize the psychological influences that contribute to juvenile delinquency, as well as the development of effective prevention and intervention strategies for at risk-youth. Across these articles, researchers examined theoretical frameworks, the complex interplay of risk factors, and refinement of crime prevention strategies. It has been widely accepted that criminal behavior and juvenile delinquency are caused by a variety of factors, such as socioeconomic status and family dynamics. I found consensus across many of the articles with regard to an emphasis on the impact of individual traits on juvenile delinquency, specifically that personality characteristics are significant determinants of delinquent behavior. Additionally, research emphasized that possessing awareness of resilience and protective factors can enhance the development of effective intervention strategies. The utilization of early intervention is critical, as it has shown to prevent the onset of delinquent behavior and supports the development of youths’ resilience and assets.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

1:30 – 2 PM

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Leah Anderson

The Self as an Unreliable Narrator

Unreliable narrators in literature are a fascinating and complex literary technique, and they can reflect the equally fascinating and complex ways we sometimes unreliably narrate our own stories, especially as we relate to others. Examining unreliable narrators in fiction provides insight into the phenomena as it exists in the “real world”: our world. This paper considers the works of Edgar Allen Poe, Agatha Christie, William Faulkner, and Jane Austen to examine how the unreliable narrator can be portrayed as conscious or unconscious of their unreliability, and how this effects the way they view and interact with others, and how others view and interact with them. This discussion also evaluates how readers accept what they read as true, regardless of the narrator’s reliability, and how it affects the way they interpret the story as a whole. Finally,  the ideas of a misinformed reader, an unreliable narrator, and our own stories and lives are brought together to demonstrate that unreliable narrators do not just exist in fiction; they also exist in the real world, and all of us, at some time or another, consciously or unconsciously, are unreliable in our own stories. 

ENG 499, Senior Capstone

Connie Diffenderfer

P103

2:30 – 3 PM

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Madison Bender

Pornography Consumption: Biopsychosocial Effects and Treatment Implications

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings across 18 empirical studies and five additional sources from 2011 to 2024 to summarize the currently known research on the negative biological, psychological, and social aspects of pornography consumption. Pornographic content has been traced back to 1524 and has evolved to become a culturally accepted phenomenon in many parts of the world through technological advances. Researchers have found that altered genes and reward pathways in the brain may contribute to the formation of problematic pornography usage. Physical issues, such as erectile dysfunctions, may arise from excessive pornography use. Psychologically, emotional regulation, mental health disorders, and dehumanization also may occur. Common emotions that may arise from pornography use are shame, guilt, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Relationships and social functioning also may be affected by pornography use due to exploitation of other human beings and moral incongruence. Attachment styles between the user and their friends and family have shown to be impacted. Socially, human trafficking also is being supported through the use of pornography, with the majority of women and children shown in online pornography being victims of human trafficking. Treatments for pornography addictions are sparse and consist of different forms of psychotherapy. Because pornography use is culturally acceptable in America, pornography addiction is not seen as an addiction and is not widely addressed. Further research, replication, and attention are needed to uncover the true impact that pornography usage has.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

11 – 11:30 AM

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Maylee Breiholz

The Greatest Commandment: The Best Strategies for Christian Teachers to Live out Christ’s Call in a Secular Setting

At an occupational level, there is one kind of individual that faces a unique set of challenges in living out Christ’s commands to love in the freest capacity, that is, the Christian teacher. Specifically, complications arise for those who teach in a secular workplace environment due to the Federal and State legislation set in place, which teachers must abide by. This of course is in addition to the taboos formed around any sort of mention of faith within public schools, even if it is according to regulation. Though, despite these challenges, teachers must not count themselves exempt from putting into practice the greatest commandments within their place of work. Even in a public school setting, teachers are still able to live out the call to love as Jesus has instructed. Within a secular teaching environment, the best way Christian teachers can successfully live out the greatest command–that is, to love–is by integrating their faith into teaching practices, fostering genuine relationships, and demonstrating Christ-like love through actions. 

IDS 499, Senior Capstone

James Berry

P114

10 – 10:30 AM

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Sophia Choat

Religious Belonging in Eugene, Oregon

Belonging is a blessing to the church that knows how to invite others into it well and a curse to the individual who does not feel as though they belong. Churches that practice and encourage belonging will not only be healthier but also will withstand the dechurching epidemic. There are many layers to understanding why this may be a hard practice for some of us, with important landmark events like the COVID-19 pandemic escalating what was only – at one point – boiling under the surface. 

The purpose of this presentation is to highlight the impact of the pandemic on churches and emphasize the significance of belonging within a church community. To further explore these themes, I have conducted qualitative interviews with six local pastors to gain insight into what belonging in a church in Eugene, Oregon entails post-pandemic.

CM 499, Senior Capstone

Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

L204

2 – 2:30 PM

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Kaitlin Cook

Posttraumatic Growth: Protective Factors and Instilling Resilience into Future Generations

Emerging research shows potential for positive psychological adaptations post adversity. In this evidence-based research paper, I examined 21 peer reviewed articles and supplementary materials dating from 2003 to 2024 in order to connect ideas of posttraumatic and resilience growth capabilities, predictors, and outcomes. In this review, I aimed to reframe traumatic experiences from a salutogenic perspective by highlighting the opportunity for personal and social advancement following adverse experiences. Through psychological interventions, self-dedication, and success strivings, individuals may reconstruct life meaning and develop greater levels of prosocial behavior, empathy, altruism, and problem solving. Adverse experiences in many cases are unavoidable; therefore, increasing psychological strength through resilience training and growth-based parenting is a priority to instill hope into future generations. Post trauma functioning given adaptive responses has outcomes of social and cognitive flourishing. Future research should prioritize increasing the body of longitudinal data by comparing baseline levels of functioning and life meaning to growth capabilities following trauma. Research directions should seek to develop practical ways to implement resiliency within institutions and integrate it into social constructs. 

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

11:30 AM – Noon

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Jackson Findlay

Game Theory, Economics and Tennis

This presentation provides an overview of game theory, an influential branch of mathematical economics that studies strategic interactions and decision making.  I introduce some basic tools used by game theorists, including strict and weak dominance and iterated deletion procedures, and discuss applications ranging from auction theory to sports. 

MATH 499, Senior Capstone

Connie Wilmarth

P003

1:30 – 2 PM

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Molly Haley

Expense Tracker Website

I created an expense tracker website for my capstone project. The inspiration from this came from my own struggles with tracking my expenses, and I thought it would be neat to create a tool that I could use in the future. This website was created in VSCode and implements a full MERN stack utilizing MongoDB, Express, ReactJS, and Node_modules. My presentation will consist of an explanation of what it means to implement MERN stack, along with explanations of my database and front end developing process. I will then complete the presentation by showing how my webpage works. 

SFTE 499, Senior Capstone

Ernest Bonat

L204

10 – 10:30 AM

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Spencer Hoffman

Comparing the Effectiveness of Persuasive Appeals for Struggling Athletes 

There are a significant number of persuasive appeals that coaches, professors, and academic support staff employ to encourage athletes to seek help when they are struggling with their coursework. A study conducted compares the effectiveness of three different categories of those kinds of appeals: fear, the injunctive norm, and cognitive dissonance. Student-athletes were asked to view and rate appeals designed to fit these categories with the goal of encouraging them to ask for help early when academic issues surface. This presentation will cover the results of the study, as well as the procedure, an overview of previous research associated with this topic, and finally some suggestions that can hopefully be of service to those who are in a position to help struggling student-athletes in the future. 

COMM 499, Senior Capstone

Doyle Srader

R100

2:30 – 3 PM

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Mackenzie Hunton

Gamification in the Math Classroom

A recent trend in K-12 education is gamification, or the use of games to motivate learning in the math classroom. This presentation surveys some practices and the current research into their effectiveness as a teaching tool.

MATH 499, Senior Capstone

Connie Wilmarth

P003

2 – 2:30 PM

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Colby Knutzen, Jacob Stoner & Jessica Woods

Strategic Plan for The Eugene Airport Rotary 

Presenting a strategic plan for The Eugene Airport Rotary Foundation, including suggestions for future improvement and analysis of current organizational standing.

BUS 499, Business Strategy and Policy

Christy Silverthorne

P103

1 – 1:30 PM

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