Honors Day Program 2021 by North Central College

HONORS DAY THURSDAY, APRIL 22

2021

THE RALL LEGACY The Rall name has held a special place in North Central’s history since 1917, when Dr. Edward Everett Rall (pictured right) was inaugurated as the College’s fifth president. During his three decades of service to the College, Rall steered North Central through two World Wars and the Great Depression, and doubled enrollment from 447 to 929. He also directed a major campus expansion that included Pfeiffer Hall, Kaufman Hall and Merner Field House. In 1930, the Rall House on South Brainard St. was purchased by Charles Rall, Edward’s brother, for the Rall family. Since then, five College presidents have resided in the house with their families and it is now home to academic programs. The Rall legacy continued with Rall’s sons, graduates of the College who both earned an M.D and a Ph.D. Today’s

Symposium is named for Joseph ‘40 (see below). David ’46 is considered the founder of modern environmental medicine. He identified ways to prevent leukemia from spreading to the brain and headed both the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the National Toxicology Program. President Rall died in 1975, but the College still honors his vision of the ideal education—one that “develops the power to think, produces the open mind, destroys prejudice, and inculcates a genuine love of truth and hatred of sham or intellectual hypocrisy.”

DR. JOSEPH E. RALL ’40 1920-2008 The annual Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research was named in 1998 to honor Joseph Edward “Ed” Rall ‘40, M.D., Ph.D., an internationally renowned research scientist whose half-century career at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) included serving as director of all intramural research. Before joining the NIH, Rall was a fellow at the Mayo Foundation in Rochester, Minn., and taught at Cornell University Medical College and the Sloan-Kettering Institute. A thyroid specialist, Rall helped devise therapies to prevent thyroid disease. He authored more than 160 scientific papers and books, and earned numerous awards from the medical and scientific communities. He received honorary doctorates from North Central College, the Free University of Brussels and the University of Naples. The University of Minnesota Mayo Foundation honored him with an

Outstanding Achievement Award, and North Central awarded him the Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1966. Rall took a leadership role in the College’s 1995 Kresge Science Challenge that brought $2 million in new support to his alma mater’s science program. He also inspired the creation of the Rall Symposium. For many years, Rall invited esteemed scientists to speak at the symposium and collaborated with students on their research projects.

2021 RALL SYMPOSIUM FOR UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

n institution of the liberal arts and sciences, North Central College provides an impressive array of opportunities for students to design and conduct independent scholarly research projects in the sciences, social sciences, humanities, business, preprofessional disciplines and fine arts. Undergraduate students can examine their own disciplines and make interdisciplinary connections as they plan, collect and evaluate data, document results and present their findings. Students can collaborate with faculty in their ongoing research; or students can design and implement their own independent projects under faculty supervision. A number of these projects are carried out as part of the College Scholars Honors Program, and many have been funded by the Richter Grant program. North Central students regularly present the results of their scholarly and artistic work at local, regional and national professional meetings. North Central College celebrates the 23rd year of the Rall Symposium* for Undergraduate Research in 2021. The Symposium is named for Joseph Edward “Ed” Rall ‘40, M.D., Ph.D. Rall was involved in the Symposium from its inception until his death in 2008 and played a critical role in attracting Nobel Laureates and other distinguished scholars to speak to attendees. Students who were part of Beta Beta Beta, the American Chemical Society and Pre-Health Organization initiated the first Rall Symposium in 1998. They were supported by President Emeritus and Life Trustee Harold R. Wilde, Ph.D., and Professor of Mathematics and Dean of Faculty Emeritus R. Devadoss Pandian, Ph.D. Traditionally, the Rall Symposium for Undergraduate Research starts with a keynote speaker addressing the campus community. However, due to the online fomat of this year’s event, the focus has been placed on student presentations. The Rall Symposium has previously welcomed the following distinguished keynote speakers**: 1998 – DR. BARUCH S. BLUMBERG

2004 – DR. HUGO F. SONNENSCHEIN

Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 1976 Nobel Laureate in Medicine

Professor of Economics and Adam Smith Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Chicago; President Emeritus, the University of Chicago

1999 – DR. MARSHALL W. NIRENBERG

2010 – DR. HERMAN B. WHITE JR.

2016 – DR. JULIO J. RAMIREZ

Senior Scientist, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory

R. Stuart Dickson Professor of Psychology (Chair), Davidson College

2011 – DR. DORIS MANGIARACINA ’81 BENBROOK

2017 – DOUG SISTERSON

Professor, Director of Research and Chair in Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Sciences Center

Chief of the Laboratory of Biochemical Genetics, National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 1968 Nobel Laureate in Medicine

2005 – DR. HOLLY J. HUMPHREY ’79

2000 – DR. LEON LEDERMAN

Dean of the Division of Humanities, the University of Chicago

Regents Professor, Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University

2007 – DR. ERIK FALCK-PEDERSEN ’75

2012 – DR. HEATHER A. CARLSON ’91

Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Co-Chair of the Graduate Program in Molecular Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University

Professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Professor of Chemistry, University of Michigan

Director Emeritus of Fermi National Laboratory, 1988 Nobel Laureate in Physics

2001 – DR. ROBERT C. GALLO Two-time winner of the prestigious Albert Lasker Award in Medicine

2002 – DR. DAVID R. DAVIES Chief of the Section on Molecular Structure at the National Institutes of Health

2003 – DR. JACOB ROBBINS Scientist Emeritus, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Professor of Medicine and Dean of Medical Education, Pritzker School of Medicine, the University of Chicago

2006 – DR. DANIELLE ALLEN

2008 – DR. WILLIAM CRONON Frederick Jackson Turner & Vilas Research Professor of History, Geography and Environmental Studies, the University of WisconsinMadison

2009 – DR. GIL STEIN Director, Oriental Institute and Professor, Department of Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, the University of Chicago

2011 – DR. K. DARRELL BERLIN ’55

Research Meteorologist, Argonne National Laboratory

2018 – DR. NERGIS MAVALVALA Curtis and Kathleen Marble Professor of Astrophysics, Associate Department Head of Physics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

2019 – DR. DAVID W. BLIGHT Class of 1954 Professor of American History; Director of the Gilder Lehrman Center for the Study of Slavery, Resistance and Abolition, Yale University; 2019 Pulitzer Prize Winner

2013 – DR. DAVID FUENTES Professor of Composition and Theory, Calvin College

2014 – DR. SATYAN DEVADOSS ’93 Professor of Mathematics, Williams College

2015 – DR. DAVID PRITCHARD Cecil and Ida Green Professor of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

*cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19 **Professional titles were current at time of keynote address.

VIRTUAL RALL SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE 9 – 10 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Interactive Oral Session #1

Pages: 7-8

10:15 – 11:15 a.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interactive Oral Session #2

Pages: 9-10

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pre-Recorded Oral Session

Pages: 11-18

1:15 – 2:15 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interactive Oral Session #3

Pages: 19-20

2:20 – 3:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interactive Oral Session #4

Pages: 21-22

HONOR SOCIETY EVENTS Congratulations to all students being inducted into an Honor Society. Due to restrictions for gathering in person this year, some groups will be meeting virtually, others in person and a few have decided to postpone or cancel induction ceremonies. If your group is not having a ceremony, your advisor will be communicating how cords will be distributed. 3 p.m.

3:45 p.m.

4 p.m.

PHI ALPHA THETA

LAMBDA ALPHA

ALPHA KAPPA DELTA

ALPHA ETA

History

Anthropology

Sociology

Virtual Event

In-Person Event

Allied Health Profession

(Rall House Lawn)

Virtual Event

4:30 p.m. GAMMA IOTA SIGMA

UPSILON PI EPSILON

PI MU EPSILON

PI SIGMA ALPHA

Actuarial Science

Computer Science

Math

Political Science

Virtual Event

In-Person Event

BETA BETA BETA

SIGMA TAU DELTA

NU RHO PSI

Biology

English

Neuroscience

In-Person & Virtual Event

In-Person Event

(Wentz Science Center 254)

(Koten Chapel)

5:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

(Wentz Science Center 101)

BLUE KEY

ALPHA ALPHA ALPHA

KAPPA DELTA PI

LEV

First Generation

Education

Virtual Event

(Old Main lawn)

PSI CHI

Psychology Virtual Event

2021 HONORS CONVOCATION In keeping with the long held campus tradition of Honors Convocation, we hope you and your family enjoy viewing the ceremony together so they can celebrate your achievements. Visit northcentralcollege.edu/honors-day to view the pre-recorded ceremony.

Invocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rev. Eric Doolittle, Chaplain Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Troy D. Hammond, President Awards Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Abiódún Gòkè-Pariolá, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES ART and DESIGN Diane Duvigneaud Senior Art Award: Jasmine Pomierski. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Whitney Sage Outstanding Major in Art and Design: Alma Recendez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. David Cordero BIOCHEMISTRY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Gregory Ruthig Outstanding Major in Biochemistry: Ana Cvetkovic BIOLOGY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Joanna Weremijewicz Outstanding Major in Biology: Sophia Sorrentino CHEMISTRY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Nicholas Boaz Outstanding Major in Chemistry: Allison Tanis COMMUNICATION and MEDIA STUDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Stephen Macek John Madormo Outstanding Student Broadcaster: Christopher Duffy Outstanding Major in Communication Studies: Quentin Gordon Outstanding Student in Forensics: Jessica Wycha Outstanding Major in Interactive Media Studies: Zacary Heren Outstanding Major in Journalism and Media Communication: Allison Rott Outstanding Major in Organizational Communication: Courtney Kurhayez COMPUTER SCIENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Christopher Kardaras Outstanding Major in Computer Science: Kateryna Paramonova ENGLISH STUDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jennifer Smith Outstanding Major in English: Giuliano Catalano Outstanding Major in Literature: John Kurpiel Outstanding Major in Writing: Emma Yahr HISTORY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Luke Franks Outstanding Major in Social Science/History: Alyssa Farney James Henry Breasted Class of 1890 Outstanding Major in History: Madeline Derango

MATHEMATICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Neil Nicholson Outstanding Major in Actuarial Science: Samantha Sowa Outstanding Major in Applied Mathematics: Pi’ilani Noguchi Outstanding Major in Mathematics: Allyson Hahn MODERN and CLASSICAL LANGUAGES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Norval Bard Outstanding Major in Chinese: Kaho Sugimoto Outstanding Major in French: Kira Cloonan Outstanding Major in German: Tatum Orr Outstanding Major in Japanese: Skyler Tuason Outstanding Major in Spanish: Emily Kossack MUSIC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jonathon Kirk Clarence Juhnke Outstanding Music Major Award: Kierstin Durst Outstanding Major in Music Education: Abigail Risner PHILOSOPHY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Greg Lynch Outstanding Major in Philosophy: Weston Valkner PHYSICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Paul Bloom Outstanding Major in Physics: Kyle Hewitt POLITICAL SCIENCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. William Muck Outstanding Major in Political Science: Elizabeth Metcalf PSYCHOLOGY and NEUROSCIENCE Outstanding Major in Psychology: Naomi Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Leila Azarbad Outstanding Major in Neuroscience: Benjamin Wong. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Michael Stefanik RELIGIOUS STUDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Perry Hamalis Outstanding Major in Religious Studies: Daniel Persinger SOCIOLOGY and ANTHROPOLOGY Outstanding Major in Sociology: Alexis Endres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Lou Corsino Outstanding Major in Anthropology: Sangay Chhoki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Matthew Krystal THEATRE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. John Warrick Outstanding Major in Musical Theatre: Jane Hoshell Outstanding Major in Theatre: Maria Clara Ospina Morales Outstanding Major in Theatrical Design and Technology: Destany Hahn

SCHOOL OF BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACCOUNTING and FINANCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. David Gray Outstanding Major in Accounting: Elena Hauser Outstanding Major in Finance: Jackson Swisher ECONOMICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Gwendolyn Tedeschi Outstanding Major in Economics: Stuart Elliot INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Robert Moussetis Outstanding Major in International Business: Iselin Brady MANAGEMENT and MARKETING Outstanding Major in Human Resource Management: Michael Longworth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jeffrey Anstine Outstanding Major in Management: Ryan Powers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jeffrey Anstine Outstanding Major in Marketing: Shrina Patel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Donnavieve Smith

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION & HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Bruce Spitzer Outstanding Major in Elementary Education: Emilee Rowzee Outstanding Major in Secondary Education: Giuliano Catalano KINESIOLOGY Outstanding Major in Athletic Training: Rachel Dawson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Kendall Selsky Outstanding Major in Exercise Science: Kaitlyn Sweeney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Kendall Selsky HEALTH SCIENCES Outstanding Major in Health Science: Francis Espedido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Tammy Wynard Outstanding Major in Sport Management: Morgan House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Tammy Wynard

INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES EAST ASIAN STUDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Luke Franks Outstanding Major in East Asian Studies: Skyler Tuason ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Joanna Weremijewicz Outstanding Major in Environmental Studies: Grace Nelles INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Chandreyee Mitra Dr. Francine G. Navakas Student in Interdisciplinary Studies: Juliet Mathey GLOBAL STUDIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. William Muck Outstanding Major in Global Studies: Serene Labadi SHIMER GREAT BOOKS SCHOOL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Stuart Patterson Outstanding Student of the Shimer Great Books School: Eelisa Wei

RECOGNITIONS Class of 2021 College Scholar Honors Theses [see pages 23-24]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Kristin Geraty Lincoln Laureate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Kendall Selsky Award Recipient: Emma Nelson

COLLEGE AWARDS Outstanding Service to Student Life Award. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Kevin McCarthy Award Recipients: Daniel Wallace Margaret Youel Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mr. Kevin McCarthy Award Recipient: William Foster Harold R. Wilde Distinguished Service Award. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ms. Elizabeth Eckerty Award Recipient: Dorothy Pleas Megan Sweeney ’01 Award. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Michael Blight Award Recipient: Courtney Kurhayez Outstanding Senior Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Troy D. Hammond Closing Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Troy D. Hammond Alma Mater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . North Central College Choral Department

North Central is the school we love, To her we sing this praise, And from the East and from the West You hear the voices raise... Hail! Hail! North Central Hail! Our Alma Mater true, We’ll always, always loyal be To you, to you, to you.

C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S

2021

AWARD WINNERS

2021 RALL INTERACTIVE ORAL SESSION #1 9 - 10 a.m.

Picturing the Past Moderator: Laura Lodewyck

Finding One’s Geographical Compass: The Division Lines of Color in “Passing” Hannah Kohl ’23, English Literature, Global Studies

Advisor: Jennifer Smith

In the 1920s, segregation was splitting Americans along lines of race and class, leaving many cities divided across the United States, which Nella Larsen’s novel Passing (1929) addresses. Cities, such as Chicago and New York City, were the outlet of freedom for individuals struggling with a sense of belonging. Scholars argue that Larsen may have been “passing” throughout her life, which causes her character, Clare, to be a manifestation of her fears. Through a detailed examination of scholarly articles, biographical criticism, and historical context, my essay details Nella Larsen’s argument about how the spatial settings of 1920s Harlem indirectly relate to a divided Chicago, symbolizing Clare’s divided self in Passing. Larsen’s novel suggests that the discovery of one’s ancestry is significant to identity and that the expectations of others in society should not determine individuality.

North Central’s Student Body Through the Great Depression Luke Kwiatkowski ’23, Secondary Education, Social Science/History

Advisor: Ann Keating

In this research, I have dived into the College’s online archives to discover how North Central’s student body was affected by the Great Depression. During this time of economic uncertainty, the College’s student body went through a metamorphosis, in which it changed from largely out-of-state, to mostly living within Illinois. This was due to both who the College was recruiting and the addition of a brand-new type of student, the commuter. Along with this shift, the College’s enrollment stayed relatively steady compared to other private colleges. This is most likely due to the fact that tuition did not rise nearly as much as other private colleges at the time. The bulk of this research was done through the online collection of the college’s yearbook, The Spectrum. Along with The Spectrum, the College’s newspaper, The Chronicle, was useful in gauging the student views of the College during this time.

Imagining the World of Lizzie Siddall Anica Schubert ’21, Musical Theatre

Advisor: Laura Lodewyck

The poet and artist Lizzie Siddall is immortalized in John Everett Millais’ 1851-52 painting of the drowning Ophelia from Hamlet. Ophelia is one of the most famous paintings of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Paintings from this movement often portray women passively, asleep, or near death. This reduction of women illustrates the misogyny of the day, in not allowing women active lives. There is much to Siddall as a person that cannot be captured in this image. Siddall had ambitions to be a painter and was the only woman artist to be shown at the 1857 Russell Place Exhibition. In my play The World of Lizzie Siddall, I translate biographical research of Siddall’s life into a theatrical script. Through theatre, I illustrate how models like Siddall presented in Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood paintings were complex people, and more than they were depicted through male perspectives.

Investigating Identities Moderator: Hale Ekinci

The Effects of Sociocultural Factors on Body Image in Female Collegiate Athletes Naomi Hill ’21, Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience

Advisor: Leila Azarbad

Negative body image puts athletes at a higher susceptibility for eating disorder development than nonathletes (NEDA, 2018). Many factors influence how athletes perceive their body, such as family, peers, the media, and coaches. The purpose of this study was to 1) examine the body image of female Division III collegiate athletes, an understudied population, 2) explore three sociocultural variables that may influence the body image satisfaction of these athletes: Family, peers, and the media, and 3) explore how the coach-athlete relationship influences body image. Participants were 105 female student-athletes at North Central College who completed measures related to body image, sociocultural pressures, and the coach-athlete relationship. Overall, participants felt larger than their ideal figure, indicative of body image dissatisfaction. Regression analyses found that family and media predicted body image satisfaction across daily life and sport domains for athletes. The coach-athlete relationship did not predict body image satisfaction in this population.

The Representation of Dominican Masculinity Within “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao” John Kurpiel ’21, Literature

Advisor: Megan Cole Paustian

The concept of Dominican masculinity is a central concern within Junot Diaz’s 2007 novel “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao.” The representation of gender roles within the novel brings to light the complexity of what it is to be a man within a patriarchal society. Focusing on the relationship between two young men within the novel, Yunior and Oscar, this essay examines how heteronormative beliefs and gender norms create a hostile environment, resulting in adverse effects for both men and women within the Dominican community. By approaching this text through a Feminist and Queer lens, this essay seeks to examine the practice of men pursuing both the approval and acceptance of other men through their sexual relations with women. These homosocial relationships amongst men create a dynamic in which women are debased as mere commodities, and heterosexuality becomes essential to a man’s place in the Dominican male community.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T LGBTQ+ Elders Diego Mateo ’23, Music Education

Advisor: John Stanley

As updated in 2020, the American Psychology Association highlights that we are doing the bare minimum as young members/allies of the LGBTQ+ community to recognize and respect our “gay elders” and the efforts they made to get us to a more inclusive place today. In August of 2019, Governor of Illinois, J.B Pritzker, signed House Bill 246, which mandates LGBTQ+ history be taught in schools as of July 1, 2020. The integration of personal experiences, narratives of aging LGBTQ+ Americans, and qualitative research is worthy of analysis and a conversation of the “uncomfortable.” The causes of this lack of respect are twofold: the lack of LGBTQ+ history in school curriculum and the way we speak to and about our LGBTQ+ elders. My research will dissect the causes, the devastating long-term effects of this disrespect, and virtual meetings as milestones to implement in order to increase awareness.

Dissecting Disease Moderator: Steve D. Johnston

Quantifying Reactive Astrogliosis during Prolonged Forced Abstinence from Oxycodone Self-Administration Jordan Nowlin ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Advisor: Michael Stefanik Benjamin Wong ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Max Farson ’21, Molecular Neuroscience, Spanish Megan Vogel ’22, Behavioral Neuroscience Bridget O’Brien ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Kasie Conness ’21, Psychology, Molecular Neuroscience Jack Bastable ’22, Molecular Neuroscience Alya Khan ’23, Molecular Neuroscience Roughly 26.8 million individuals worldwide currently suffer from an opioid use disorder. Drug incubation, or the intensification of drug craving during withdrawal, helps to explain why abstinence is so challenging. Research has revealed neuroinflammation following opioid administration and has detailed the inflammatory role of A1-reactive astrocytes. The role that A1-reactive astrocytes play in oxycodone incubation, however, remains unknown. It was hypothesized that A1-reactive astrocytes would diminish throughout withdrawal. Rats were trained to self-administer oxycodone (6hr/day for 10 days), and the intensity of drug craving was tested with drug seeking tests on days 1 and 15 of forced abstinence. The expression of general astrocytes (GFAP marker) and A1-reactive astrocytes (C3 marker) in the nucleus accumbens and medial prefrontal cortex were then measured with immunohistochemistry. All animals that self-administered oxycodone contained large quantities of astrocytes but no A1-astrocytes. This indicates that astrocytes play a role in oxycodone incubation, but A1astrocytes do not.

Brucella Bacteriophage Trigger Immune Cell Signaling Jack Plewa ’21, Biology

Advisor: Jonathan Visick

Brucella abortus is the bacterium that causes brucellosis, an infection transmitted from cattle to people through raw milk. Rather than treating it with antibiotics, phage therapy is a possible alternative. However, the immune response of animals and people to Brucellaspecific phages is unknown and must be tested. To do this, human and bovine immune cells were stimulated with phages, cell surface markers were measured for activation using flow cytometry, and TNFα was measured using ELISAs. In bovine cells, we detected cell activation from phages alone. In human cells, phages suppressed LPS-induced activation. Furthermore, we detected a lower concentration of TNFα produced in cells treated with phages and LPS compared to cells treated with LPS only. The phages may be triggering an antiviral immune response. To confirm this, we need to quantify the amount of type I IFN produced. This research may provide evidence that phage therapy can treat brucellosis.

Quantification of Fos Activity in the Orbitofrontal Cortex and the Basolateral Amygdala During Oxycodone Incubation Benjamin Wong ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Advisor: Michael Stefanik Max Farson ’21, Molecular Neuroscience, Spanish Jordan Nowlin ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Megan Vogel ’22, Behavioral Neuroscience Kasie Conness ’21, Psychology, Molecular Neuroscience Bridget O’Brien ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Jack Bastable ’22, Molecular Neuroscience Alya Kahn ’23, Molecular Neuroscience The current opioid crisis is being fueled by abuse of prescription opioids, including oxycodone. Opioid abuse leaves users craving drugs and susceptible to relapse. The intensification (“incubation”) of craving, is used to describe drug craving progressively intensifying during abstinence. The cells and circuits driving this behavior remain unknown. This study sought to determine neuronal activity in key reward-related brain regions involved in incubation. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to self-administer oxycodone (0.15mg/kg/ infusion, 6hr/day) for 10 days. Following self-administration, animals were tested for drug-seeking behavior either 1 or 15 days later (WD1 or WD15). Neuronal activity in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and the basolateral amygdala (BLA), was examined at these two timepoints by quantifying the number active neurons using Fos (a neuronal activity marker). It was hypothesized that activity in both regions would be increased on WD15. Preliminary results confirm these hypotheses.

2021 RALL INTERACTIVE ORAL SESSION #2 10:15 - 11:15 a.m.

Protests and Politics Moderator: Sophie Hand

Finding Their Voices: Political Protest in East Germany Matt Boelke ’22, German, Secondary Education

Advisor: Gregory H. Wolf

East Germany carried out policy by suppressing the individuality of its citizens, ensuring that they didn’t question its authority. The Socialist Unity Party maintained absolute political control in the GDR through the cooperation of the Ministry of State Security (the Stasi), an intelligence and secret police agency. By examining testimonial accounts and scholarly research, my project demonstrates how East German citizens carved out space to voice their dissatisfaction with the state. I build upon the research of Meelan, Mauk, and Krisch, to reexamine how East Germans mounted the first protest in the Soviet block (1953) and the consequences. My research foregrounds protesters’ Widerstand (Resistance), focusing on the rise of the environmental movement, women’s liberation and rights groups, homosexuals, punk rockers, who were systematically oppressed by the state. These groups found an ally in the state Protestant Church, who offered them a safe space to meet and organize.

The People Stopped a Nuclear War: The Influence of Domestic Politics on the Cuban Missile Crisis Rachel Maida ’21, Political Science, History

Advisor: William Muck

The Cuban Missile Crisis is one of the most studied foreign policy events in modern history. A review of the existing literature shows a focus exclusively on the international variables and the discussions being had about the consequences on the international stage. In this project I examine the role that domestic political variables played in the decision-making from the Kennedy administration of the Cuban Missile Crisis. I engage in archival analysis of the recorded meetings from the EXCOMM Committee to assess the degree to which U.S. leaders were thinking about domestic politics. The findings indicate domestic political factors and public opinion played a crucial role in the selection of the blockade. Particularly, officials assessed how different options would impact their future political careers. Results suggest that future research on foreign policy decision-making should pay greater attention to the importance of domestic political variables.

The Traditionalism of the French Revolutionary Bourgeois Claire Mikulcik ’23, Shimer Great Books Social Science, Political Science

Advisor: Harold Stone

My paper is an examination of the first wave of revolutionaries in the French Revolution. It looks at the surprising monarchism, elitism, and anti-capitalism of the upper bourgeois class that made up the original revolutionaries. Most of the original revolutionaries were traditionalists who merely desired to be admitted to the aristocratic “club,” as evidenced by their prior aspirations, hatred of progress through capitalism, and “reforms” afterwards that established a new aristocracy of wealth. In a revolution renowned for its glorification of “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity,” this paper discusses how the beginning phases of the revolution neglected those principles entirely.

Crafting a Calming Culture Moderator: Leila Azarbad

The Effects of ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) on Sleep and Relaxation Giovanina Kelly ’21, Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience

Advisor: Alexis Chambers

Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) and mindfulness meditation are two popular tools to promote relaxation. While research shows that mindfulness meditation helps treat sleep disturbances and improve sleep, only anecdotal evidence suggests ASMR may benefit sleep. One of the few experimental studies to investigate ASMR found that it increased positive affect and reduced heart rate, suggesting it may create conditions that promote sleep. However, direct connections between ASMR and sleep have not been examined. Thus, it is not currently known if ASMR has therapeutic effects similar to mindfulness meditation for sleep. Because the public continues to utilize these two mediums as therapeutic tools, additional work is needed to better understand and compare these methods of relaxation. This work has the ability to increase empirical evidence and support for these mainstream techniques.

Development of a Training Module for Student Facilitators of Student-Led Support Groups at Undergraduate Institutions Daniel Wallace ’21, Psychology

Advisor: Leila Azarbad

Peer-led support groups have been shown to provide benefits to college students when more traditional support systems, like one-on-one counseling, aren’t available. However, there’s little known about best practices to train peer facilitators. This research project had three aims: To analyze factors that are responsible for the success of peer support programs, to examine how peer support programs at other colleges train their peer facilitators, and to create a training manual for the North Central College counseling center to train future peer facilitators. Participants were 4 staff members from college counseling centers and 3 executive board members of student organizations that organize peer-led support on campuses that participated in online interviews about support groups, trainings, and their respective campuses. Results showed that the most effective training included weekly meetings over the course of a semester that covered diverse topics such as empathy, group dynamics, and mental illness.

Emotional Benefits of Brief Creative Movement and Art Interventions Nicole Zimmermann ’21, Health Science, Creative Movement and Psychological Health

Advisors: Nicole Rivera, Heather Mangelsdorf

Experiencing periods of negative mood often accompanied by stress from time to time is expected for everyone, as it is highly prevalent in modern society, and maybe even more so in college students. The objective of this study was to determine if either creative movement or art were effective in decreasing stress among college students and improving their mood. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to a movement or art intervention. Before the intervention, participants in both conditions wrote about a current stressor, rated their perceived intensity of the stressor, and completed a mood questionnaire. Following the intervention, participants completed the same tasks. Two-way ANOVAs (group x time) found significant reductions in stress (p < .001) and negative affect (p < .001), in addition to increases in positive affect (p = .007) for both groups from pre- to post-intervention. Results suggest that briefly partaking in creative movement or art can psychologically help college students.

Communicating during COVID-19 Moderator: Amy Grim Buxbaum

How has COVID-19 Affected Organizational Communication? A Roundtable Discussion Jette-Mari Anni ’23, Organizational Communication, Social Entrepreneurship Elizabeth Arnold ’21, Organizational Communication Daisy Chadra ’21, Organizational Communication Isabella Corso ’21, Psychology Kate Rasmussen ’21, Organizational Communication Sara Sheridan ’22, Marketing and Small Business Management Alex Shevtsov ’22, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management

Advisor: Amy Grim Buxbaum

In a qualitative research project, students investigated how workplace communication practices are being impacted by organizational responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each student conducted a series of three semi-structured interviews with professionals in a variety of industries in order to better understand the communication challenges as well as the unexpected improvements the pandemic has brought. Students recruited participants, then recorded, transcribed and analyzed their interviews. For the culminating project, each student identified themes that cut across their interviews and connected them to course material. Key findings underscore the importance of organizational culture, communication networks, informal interaction and workplace relationships as well as the need for openness and transparency in times of organizational uncertainty. Facilitated by Dr. Amy Grim Buxbaum, this roundtable session features several students in conversation about common themes, tensions, and potential new directions in organizational communication theory and practice. Note: 45-minute panel discussion.

2021 RALL PRE-RECORDED ORAL SESSION 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Perception of Students’ Stress During Pandemic Relative to Individual and Institutional Management Alicia Alexander ’21, Psychology

Advisor: Nicole Rivera

Research has focused on stressors that college students experience but there is limited knowledge about the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. Research indicates with guidance and assistance, stress levels, and mental health improve. The goal of this qualitative study was to develop an understanding of college students’ stressors during the pandemic and how an institution is assisting. Four junior/senior students and five faculty/staff members participated in a semi-structured interview. Interviews with students examined stress perceptions, coping methods, responses to stress, and stress management techniques. Faculty and staff interviews examined responses and adaptions to assisting and acknowledging students’ stress and new accommodations that were put in place. Students experienced stressors from academics, social interactions, and financially and had to learn to acclimatize and cope with new stress reduction methods. Faculty and staff acknowledged student stress and described accommodations. Institutions must continue to explore ways to support students during a pandemic.

An Investigation into the Academic Experience of the NCAA Division III Student Athlete John Auge ’22, International Business, Finance

Advisor: Suzanne Chod

Previous research completed at the Division I level has shown there are multiple factors that hinder the academic success of student athletes but no research exists solely for the Division III level. The goal of my study is to examine the experiences of Division III student athletes to offer solutions that will help create a better academic experience. I assessed various academic and athletic experiences of student-athletes and coaches’ interests through a survey sent out for each. The surveys were conducted at a private Division III Midwestern college and were sent out to all athletes and head coaches through email. After collecting and analyzing the data, I have developed suggestions that Division III colleges can incorporate in order to better support student-athletes. One major recommendation is to have a study abroad representative meet with each team because 53.8% of respondents said they are unable to study abroad because of sports.

Effects of Cancer on the Transgender Community Kylie Bechtold ’23, Health Science

Advisor: John Stanley

While cancer has been the topic of much medical research, the transgender community has been largely overlooked. Not only do members of the gender diverse community face uncertainty and a lack of data based evidence about what the effects of the necessary gender alignment treatments are on their bodies, but healthcare professionals worsen the issue by creating a climate of distrust with their trans patients. This slows down the process of combating cancer within this population. This presentation analyzes the causes and effects regarding the disproportionate effect of cancer on the trans community. I have focused my research on the ways the medical community has excluded trans folks, and that doctors are mishandling the needs of trans patients. I also suggest some solutions to implement nationally to better trans care. On a personal level I offer steps that can be taken to find accessible respectful care for trans folks.

Sexual Consent and Social Media Amelia Caliendo ’22, Sociology Destiny Gomez ’21, Sociology Kelsey McLaurin ’21, Sociology: Social Justice and Community Work

Advisor: Anne Groggel

Interpretations of sexual consent by college students can influence the rate of sexual assaults. Our study examines how college students interpreted sexual consent over text messages through the use of emojis. We conducted a survey at a small liberal arts college in the Midwest of over 80 college students to see how they interpreted an ambiguous text message conversation between a man and a woman. We used survey research and coded our data for recurring themes of intimacy that were expected of either party. A key finding is the rape myth scale was predictive if the individual said the text conversation gave sexual consent. One limitation of our study is that there can be a misunderstanding of the meaning of consent and how men and women interpret it differently. When communication occurs over text messages there can be a risk for miscommunication and misinterpretation of sexual consent which can be a precursor to sexual assault.

A Criminological Explanation for the Crimes of H. H. Holmes Madelynn Carney ’22, Clinical Psychology Advisor: Raleigh Blasdell Lauren Larsen ’23, Psychology This project will examine one of the most infamous Chicago killers, H. H. Holmes, using social bond theory as the theoretical foundation to explain why Holmes committed his heinous acts. Holmes’s lack of attachments and bonds in society will be highlighted as the largest factor influencing his behavior. Along with his failure to form bonds, his lack of empathy and sympathy will be expressed as an additional influence on his thought process and actions. By taking a close look at these factors that affected Holmes, we can try to prevent future acts by those in similar situations by introducing policies and programs that encourage the formation of social bonds and attachments, as well as interventions to recognize early signs of antisocial behavior.

An Odyssey Through a Pandemic: Reflection on the Construction of Personhood Sangay Chhoki ’21, Anthropology, Global Studies

Advisor: Matthew Krystal

Berger and Ellis describe autoethnography as “writing and research that connects personal and cultural experience”. Autoethnographic accounts explore the intersection of individual experience and societal patterns, allowing for a richer understanding of the culture that encompasses our shared experiences. Through intensive analysis of field notes and journals, this presentation explores my experiences as an international student from Bhutan in two different countries—United States of America and New Zealand, before and during a pandemic. Radically different responses to the pandemic in these two countries were noted widely in the media. New Zealand showcased near universal compliance and control of the disease. On the other hand, the U.S. exemplified weaker control of the disease stemming from a significant rejection of the scientific evidence. I argue that this divergence reflects distinct notions of freedom and individuality despite a shared linguistic and cultural heritage of the same English Empire.

The Deadliness of the Hosptial-to-Home Transition Kaitlyn Colvin ’24, Political Science

Advisor: John Stanley

The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted and intensified an ongoing problem in the medical community: the dangers of the hospitalto-home transition. Patients face life threatening risks if not properly prepared to be discharged from hospital care. In the face of a global pandemic, this issue has grown significantly and underlined a jarring absence of aftercare. This project analyzes the problems and causes presented through the hospital-to-home transition. I also suggest solutions. My research focuses on the mistakes that make the transition deadly, specifically fixating on COVID-19, through real life stories and data analysis. Of note, nearly half of patients feel that they are unable to take care of themselves after they are discharged. Hospital workers and other medical professionals severely lack a proper plan of communication when discussing their patients’ recovery. As a result, patients find themselves incapable of understanding and treating their conditions.

Déjà Vu All Over Again: Researching Previous Years’ “Censored” News Stories- Goldwater Institute Griffin Curran ’21, Social Science/History, Secondary Education

Advisor: Stephen Macek

Each year, Project Censored releases a list of the “top 25” most important stories overlooked by the corporate news media published as part of a yearbook as well as a “Déjà Vu” chapter that details what happened to a selection of previous years’ “top 25” stories, examines subsequent corporate news coverage those stories received and describes new developments in the underlying facts of the stories. My research is a contribution to the “Déjà Vu” chapter for the 2021 book. I found that a 2018 Project Censored story about a Goldwater Institute model campus free speech bill adopted as law in several states has received increased media coverage (even as the legislation has increasingly been questioned by college faculty and some politicians). I also found that a second story from 2020 about a proposal by indigenous groups to preserve the Amazon revealed that coverage of the proposal has been preempted by media attention to the threat COVID-19 poses to indigenous peoples in that region.

The Understudies of the Court: Exploring Law Clerk Influence on Supreme Court Dissenting Opinions Using Language Variation Signifiers Madeline Derango ’21, History

Advisor: Suzanne Chod

Law clerks play a critical role in drafting the opinions released by the Supreme Court of the United States, but measuring the extent of their influence proves challenging. To solve this issue, function words have been used to measure how outside authors have shaped Supreme Court majority opinions each term. While studies have calculated language variation for majority opinions, no major works have measured language variation and outside influences on the Supreme Court’s dissenting opinions. This thesis aims to fill this gap by exploring law clerk influence on dissenting opinions using data collected from dissenting opinions published by the Supreme Court from 2010-2020. This study finds that language variation, on average, is lower in dissenting opinions than in majority opinions, indicating less law clerk involvement in the drafting process. Furthermore, this study finds that specific language variation trends may be attributed to the shifting judicial philosophy of the majority.

Athletes Perceive Loss of Identity After Injury and a Coach’s Role in the Psychological Recovery of Athletes Nicole Durkee ’21, Exercise Science

Advisor: Kristin Paloncy-Patel

The increase in sport participation in recent years has resulted in a higher rate of sport-related injuries and increased awareness of the psychological effects these injuries have on athletes. The most prevalent psychological response to injury is a perceived loss of identity, which can lead to anger, confusion, disengagement, and depression. Crucial to the psychological rehabilitation process is a support system, with coaches often having the most influence. This paper aims to (1) explore the role that coaches have in the psychological recovery of injured athletes and (2) provide practical measures that coaches can utilize to optimize their influence on athletes’ psychological recovery. This paper offers a brief review of the literature surrounding these topics, a discussion of a single case study and its connections to the literature, and detailed measures for coaches to utilize to optimize their influence on the successful psychological recovery of athletes.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs): Locating Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Strategies for a Trauma Informed Classroom Within Current Educator Preparation Standards Francis Espedido ’21, Health Science, Psychology

Advisor: Tammy Wynard

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have negative impacts on enduring health complications leading to an early death. ACE scores are determined by a survey, which focuses on communal abuse, toxic stress, neglect, etc. This toxic stress causes responses from the endocrine system, which over time impacts neurodevelopment detrimentally. Often, children suffering from ACEs are unable to foster healthy relationships, and more specifically, negatively influence their academic behavior. The objective of this study was to locate the standards that the Midwest states use in order to license their teacher candidates. Once located, researchers examined those standards to analyze whether or not preservice educators are being informed to content related to ACEs. A comprehensive archival study used with systemic coding was used as the primary metric of data collection. Overall, results conclude that prospective educators of the Midwest region are not being informed of the fundamental principles of ACEs and Trauma-Informed Practices.

Groupthink in the Third Reich Jackson Frank ’21, Political Science

Advisor: Gregory H. Wolf

Hitler came to power in Germany in 1933 by advocating nationalism and propagating an “Aryan” notion of identity. Nazi ideology marginalized individuality and subjected all aspects of society, from education and religion to work and leisurely activities, to totalitarianism, a process known as Gleichschaltung. Employing Janis’s eight symptoms of groupthink, my project explores how the Nazi regime controlled and suppressed a highly educated populace. I explore why Germans didn’t revolt violently against the Nazi state. My research examines personal accounts of Nazi functionaries and eyewitness testimonies, supported by scholarly literature (Canetti, McDonough, Evans). My findings show the state controlled art, news, films, books, and music, therefore inculcating the German public through propaganda, directed by Goebbels, with Nazism. Utilizing the Reichstag Fire Decree, Hitler created an all powerful state where citizens were subjected to statecontrolled programs that were driven by Nazi ideology. Germans did not revolt against the NSDAP because the Police State would cut off the individuals from all state services.

Frustration-Aggression Theory and OJ Simpson Ja’nae Fuerte ’22, Psychology, Sociology: Criminal Justice Amelia Caliendo ’22, Sociology Mitrese Smith ’21, Marketing

Advisor: Raleigh Blasdell

This project involved a case study of an infamous criminal and the application of a criminological theory that best explains his criminality. In examining the life of OJ Simpson, a high profile celebrity criminal, it was determined that his crimes were rooted in aggression and frustration as noted in the “Frustration Aggression Theory,” which explains criminal behavior as a form of adaptation that results in stress reduction. Specifically, OJ Simpson’s book “If I Did It” highlights how his direct aggression toward others was a consequence of frustration. Based on our findings, there are risk factors that can be used to identify early childhood behaviors that might correlate with later problematic behavior. Additionally, the utility of Cognitive Behavioral Intervention as a means of criminal diversion is discussed.

Cops and Robbers on Toroidal Chess Graphs with Alternating One-Way Streets Allyson Hahn ’21, Mathematics

Advisor: Neil Nicholson

Cops and Robbers is a pursuit-evasion game played on mathematical graphs. Since the 1980s mathematical research on the game has expanded, exploring a plethora of different variations such as altering the movements of the cops and/or robbers (in the game, they “move” around the mathematical graph) or changing the type of graph the game is played on. This variation of Cops and Robbers incorporates the concept of “one-way streets” in cities. The game is played on a chessboard graph where the edges have a direction associated to them, to mimic the idea of “one-way streets.” Additionally, the cops and robber move around the board like certain chess pieces. Our main result determines the minimum number of cops needed to capture the robber and consequently win the game.

The Effect of Linguistic Biases on the Guilt of Male African American Criminal Suspects Caitlin Hamilton ’21, Psychology

Advisor: Jonathan F. Mueller

Bias against Black men in America has contributed to the prison population being disproportionately made up of Black males. Previous research has identified several factors that contribute to this bias in the criminal justice system. Researchers are just beginning to examine how linguistic biases can perpetuate injustices alongside visual biases. Thus, in this study, participants choose the “guilty” suspect for a crime based on audio recordings of alibis to evaluate linguistic bias against African American Vernacular English. Preliminary data suggests that the average person is no more likely to decide that a suspect speaking AAVE is guilty than a suspect with a Midwestern accent. In scenario one, 20 participants selected suspects speaking AAVE and 14 selected the suspects using a standard Midwestern accent. In scenario two, 7 participants selected suspects speaking AAVE and 27 selected the suspects using a standard Midwestern accent.

Islamophobia in the American Public School System Tabish Imran ’22, Economics

Advisor: John Stanley

Over the past 19 years since the horrific tragedy of 9/11, not only have Muslim Americans had to grieve the loss of nearly 3,000 fellow Americans, but are still fighting discrimination today. Surprisingly, one of the most common contexts of Islamophobia is within the American school system. As University of Nebraska research notes, 55% of Muslim students reported experiencing discrimination grades K-12, all because of their Islamic faith. My project will address how a lack of addressing religion in school curriculum and even actions by school administrators have led to this crisis. This presentation will investigate this crisis by providing evidence of the deep roots of this crisis, the effect on the mental health of Muslim students and islamophobia outside of the classroom leading to hate crimes, and offering individual solutions for what we can all do to combat Islamophobia.

The Road to Hadestown: The Myth of Orpheus and Eurydice Curtis Jewell ’21, Musical Theatre

Advisor: Michael de Brauw

Many people would say that an adaptation of a previous work’s most modern interpretation must be best, but in reality it is not the use of modernization that creates a successful product but rather how closely the adaptation uses the source material. A popular example of this is the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, which comes from two ancient sources, Ovid’s Metamorphoses, Book 10 lines 1-86, and Virgil’s Georgics, Book 4 lines 453-527. This myth has inspired many adaptations, including Orpheus Descending, Moulin Rouge!, Eurydice, and Hadestown. Within this classical reception study, I consider the use of the ancient primary sources for each of these works, and argue that Hadestown stands above these other versions of the myth due to notable musicality, integration of deeper thematic elements for a modern audience, and development of characters that deepen the relevance of the myth all while keeping closest to the source material.

Social Media Influencers and the Simulated World Lorraine Kucharski ’21, Psychology

Advisor: Louis Corsino

Do we live in a real world or a simulation of that world? I looked at this question from a sociological and philosophical perspective by analyzing theories from Karl Marx (theory of consumption and commodified culture), Jean Baudrillard (theory of simulation), and Alfred Schutz (theory of social phenomenology and the lifeworld) as they relate to social media influencers (SMIs). Through meta-analysis of related literature and the interviews of three SMIs I describe what social influencers do and how they see their impact on their followers. I also interviewed a brand ambassador to learn the operation behind brand endorsement. While exploring the creation of a “simulated reality” and the processes whereby in a direct manner people are presented with consumption choices, I found that this has little relationship to real world phenomenon and that we live in a social world where commodities have primary relevance only in relationship to other commodities.

Teacher Attitudes and Preparedness for Inclusive Education for Individuals with Cognitive Disabilities Serene Labadi ’21, Global Studies

Advisor: Mara K. Berkland

Advocacy for individuals with disabilities in Jordan is a key issue of importance, as it is a system that is continuously evolving. The Ministry of Education (2020) states Jordanian legislation prohibits exclusion of any student on the basis of disability, yet statistics show that 79% of students with disabilities aren’t receiving access to education. This project sought to understand to what extent are teachers in Jordan supportive of and prepared for inclusive education opportunities for individuals with cognitive disabilities. In a series of semi-structured qualitative interviews and written responses from teachers, specialists, and scholars in the field, this research uncovered that teachers are often viewed as the driving force behind inclusive ventures and are deeply supportive of inclusive education. What they lack is the level of preparedness to achieve their goal, reporting the largest barriers to be lack of training, infrastructure, accessible curriculum, financial resources, and awareness.

Perpetuating Racism: The Long Road to Japanese Internment Rachel Maida ’21, History, Political Science

Advisor: Luke Franks

Japanese internment camps remain one of the biggest failures and mistakes in American history and political strategy. The existing literature of Japanese interment focuses heavily on the culture and fear that led to Executive Order 9066. In this project, I explore the existing policy and rhetoric that was used to keep Japanese Americans out of a working system and away from institutions that are meant to support the “American Dream.” This research is a combination of looking at sources like newspapers and speeches and examining political policy that was enacted from the late 1800s up until 1942. I find evidence to suggest the treatment of Japanese Americans was more an extension of existing fear and xenophobia than it was a quick decision brought on by Pearl Harbor. Future research on race-based decision making should continue to examine the history of racism and racist policies, in addition to the snap moment.

Novel Approach to the Formation of Acyl Nitroso Compounds Using Alkyl Nitrites Emma Markun ’22, Chemistry

Advisor: Nicholas Boaz

Acyl nitroso compounds are highly reactive intermediates which are sources of nitroxyl under basic conditions. These intermediates have been shown to react with nucleophiles such as amines in the formation of amides or dienes in the formation of hetero-Diels-Alder products. Current methods of synthesizing these compounds utilize the oxidation of hydroxamic acids, decomposition of nitrodiazoalkanes, or decomposition of 9,10-dimethylanthracene nitroso adducts. This research reports a novel approach to the generation of transient acyl nitroso compounds using widely available alkyl nitrites as a source of NO radicals. Heating of tert-butyl nitrite, aliphatic aldehyde, and radical initiator leads to the production of an acyl nitroso intermediate which is trapped in situ with an alcohol to form an ester which can be identified using 1H NMR spectroscopy and GC-MS. Using this methodology, we have been able to transform heptanal to its corresponding propyl ester in 85% yield via a proposed heptyl nitroso intermediate.

Exploring the Preparation of Women Studying Abroad Caroline Martin ’21, Actuarial Science

Advisor: Judith Brodhead

For decades, American women have outnumbered American men who study abroad during their college careers. However, in pre-departure orientations and classes, women are given little deliberate information on how their gender will affect their experience abroad, usually connected to their physical safety. Furthermore, most information provided to women and found online only gives women suggestions of what not to do while abroad. The findings in this thesis suggest that a straightforward solution does not exist to solve this systemic issue; however, this study includes ways to better prepare women to live overseas. The research combines analysis of academic articles, university study abroad websites, and personal experiences. Institutions should give more specific information about traveling abroad as a woman and tools to work through gendered experiences so female students can understand some of the challenges they will face.

Attitudes of Chinese Citizens and the Influence of Dream of the Red Chamber in Modern Day China Juliet Mathey ’22, Environmental Studies, Chinese Madeline Derango ’20, History Andrea Du ’21, Education, Chinese Sophie Juhlin ’20, Shimer Great Books, French Aiden Schadt ’22, International Business

Advisors: Stuart Patterson, Jinai Sun

Our poster presents the results of our year-long research into the classic Chinese novel “Hong Lou Meng,” including a three-week journey through Beijing, Nanjing and Suzhou in July 2019. Our research investigated the attitudes of Chinese people toward the institutions of law, poetry, garden architecture, management, and education through interviews about the novel, which is one of the best-loved works of Chinese classical literature. Interviews with students, parents, teachers, critics, common readers, and business professionals revealed that modern Chinese society is generally still deeply rooted in many of the traditional values reflected in the novel, often referred to as “an encyclopedia of Chinese society.” However, our study also shows that Western influence has begun permeating Chinese life in all the spheres we investigated.

The Time Well Spent Method: A Visual Narrative Technique Brianna McAloon ’22, Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience Advisor: Karl Kelley Giovanina Kelly ’21, Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience Kaylyn Walsh ’22, Behavioral Neuroscience, Psychology Olivia Gatto ’23, Psychology, Human Resource Management This project focuses on developing a method for assessing how employees manage their time. Traditional research in this area has asked people to report the number of hours or percent of their time spent on different tasks. Although important, this technique does not address situations of time overlap (times when we are at work but thinking about issues at home) or provide an explanation of the experience. In our method, participants organize time circles to construct a Venn diagram describing weekly time usage. Then they respond to a series of structured priming questions to create their time narrative. Participants have reported that this method is understandable, engaging, and enjoyable. Participants have been able to create three diagrams (past, present, and ideal) and provide a useable narrative. Based on these results we are ready to use this technique to test hypotheses related to time management issues for employees working remotely.

The Effects of Horror Media on Sleep Quality and Duration Emily Miller ’21, Psychology, Behavioral Neuroscience

Advisor: Alexis Chambers

Although it is a commonly held belief that watching horror films impedes sleep, research has yet to establish any causal link between consuming scary media and a disruption of sleep. In reviewing the effects of scary media consumption on human behavior and mood, we find that scary movies elicit prolonged stress responses, which are known to affect sleep. Related research also shows that media usage before bed may reduce sleep quality and duration, but the impact of specific content has not been investigated. Additionally, methods requiring participants to watch videos containing emotional content (positive and negative) before bed have affected sleep architecture, producing an increase in Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. Our literature review suggests that horror films may be able to affect sleep, but future work will be needed to establish a causal link between such scary media and sleep disturbances.

Orphism and Its Role in Ancient Greece Paige Miller ’21, Classical Civilizations, Theatre

Advisor: Michael de Brauw

First discovered in 1962, the Derveni papyrus is one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the last century and has revitalized scholarly interest in its subject, Orphism. While most of the knowledge is lost to time, the literary tradition that Orphism left behind helps to fill in the gap. Tying its origins to the mythical Orpheus, this initiatory mystery cult was based around secret knowledge of individual eschatology; revolving around major themes of birth, death, rebirth, as well as salvation that stands out from other Mediterranean religions of the time. Through close reading of the Derveni papyrus and other primary sources and critical analysis of current scholarly interpretation, my project intends to examine Orphism against its contemporaries and as an exemple of the religious diversity present in the Ancient Mediterranean.

Dream of the Red Chamber: Women and Fiction Laurel Murphy ’21, History, East Asian Studies

Advisor: Jinai Sun, Stuart Patterson

My research argues that Cao Xueqin’s Dream of the Red Chamber, published in late eighteenth century Qing dynasty, influenced a developing female readership within the then male-dominated world of literature. By analyzing responses made to the novel by women in the late Imperial period, I explore how Dream of the Red Chamber influenced a growing audience of female readers to participate in creating and engaging with literature--despite prevalent neo-Confucian ideology being against women doing just that. I argue that Dream of the Red Chamber not only found a receptive readership among women during this period but encouraged their engagement within literary society, indicating an overall trend toward increasing women’s contributions to the literary world of early modern China.

Climate Conversations: Navigating Dialogue and Activating Change Grace Nelles ’22, Environmental Studies

Advisor: Joanna Weremijewicz

As someone pursuing environmental studies, the biggest question I ask is “How do we get people to take action against climate change?” To answer this question, I attended a 3-day conference to join the Climate Reality Leadership Corps, founded by former Vice President Al Gore. As Climate Reality Leaders, our duty is to present the most accurate and recent information to communities about the climate crisis, addressing what is happening, why, and what we can do about it. Although this information is increasingly politically divisive, my research into the literature combined with feedback received during these discussions revealed what people need to hear in order to act. This includes tailoring messages to develop a climate story, explaining how climate change affects our community and lives, and the ways it impacts economics and policy. Overall, when messages are personalized, people feel a greater call to action.

Teachers’ Perceptions of Bilingual Education: Navigating Whiteness-Centered Curricula During a Global Pandemic Kayla Nuccio ’21, Elementary Education

Advisor: Mary Beth Ressler

Educators have overcome many challenges imposed by the educational system, but the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 brought about one of the most unprecedented challenges that have been harmful to student learning: remote learning. It can be argued that even though remote learning has negatively impacted education worldwide, English language learners and bilingual teachers have had elevated difficulties adapting to this teaching mode due to external pressures and other challenges imposed by the educational system. In this study, four general, elementary education teachers, who teach English language learners, completed a survey and a semi-structured interview to offer their perceptions about the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on education and their ability to provide effective instruction. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed for common themes. Overall, the results of the study indicate that the pressures and stresses caused by COVID-19 negatively impacted the teachers’ ability to provide effective instruction to their bilingual students.

Incubated Oxycodone Seeking Is Significantly Reduced After Bilateral Infusion of NASPM Into the NAc Shell and Core Sub-Regions Bridget O’Brien ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Advisor: Michael Stefanik Kasie Conness ’21, Psychology, Molecular Neuroscience Benjamin Wong ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Max Farson ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Jordan Nowlin ’21, Molecular Neuroscience Megan Vogel ’22, Behavioral Neuroscience Jack Bastable ’22, Molecular Neuroscience Alya Khan ’23, Molecular Neuroscience Oxycodone is the most widely prescribed prescription opioid and a prominent contributor to the opioid epidemic. Relapse is a notable barrier after extended abstinence because of worsening craving induced by exposure drug-paired cues, known as the “incubation of craving”. Little is known about incubated oxycodone craving or its mechanism. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a region critical motivated behavior. Studies have revealed the incorporation of calcium-permeable AMPA receptors (CP-AMPARs) in the NAc can increase reactivity to drug-paired cues and lead to incubation. It is hypothesized that the CP-AMPARs in the NAc are responsible for the incubation of oxycodone craving. To test this, rats were trained to self-administer oxycodone (0.15mg/kg/infusion; 6hr/day/10 days). CP-AMPAR antagonist NASPM was bilaterally infused into the NAc shell and core subregions before a seeking test one (WD1) or 15 days (WD15) into withdrawal. Results demonstrate that NASPM in either subregion significantly reduces incubated drug seeking on WD15.

Reform or Revolt! Religious Identity in the Midst of Crisis Taylor O’Neill ’21, Religious Studies

Advisor: Wioleta Polinska

The project is a creative writing piece and accompanying analysis that explores how people of faith respond to traumatic events that challenge their religious beliefs. The analysis uses the phenomenological method and close reading of both the creative piece and texts from religious studies and psychology sources to track the characters’ religious development. The project’s results reveal that people who are encouraged to think critically about their faith are able to adapt or defend their beliefs in times of crisis and have their faith strengthened by these challenges, but people who are forbidden to ever question or doubt are more likely to break from their faith and become anti-religious. The project concludes that questioning makes faith stronger and is a necessary part of religious growth.

Patient’s Mental Health in Athletic Training Kayla Pisauro ’21, Athletic Training, Psychology

Advisor: Nicole Rivera

Athletic trainers (ATs) are certified to not only treat physical injuries but to recognize abnormal mental health behaviors, utilize psychosocial techniques, and make referrals. Many studies have looked at post-injury emotions in athletes, but few with non-injury related mental health. Research also lacks in explaining why ATs feel prepared, or unprepared, to handle mental health situations and use psychosocial interventions. Seven Division III ATs in the Midwest participated in semi-structured interviews exploring their experiences treating patients with mental health needs. Anxiety and depression were the most frequently encountered mental health disorders. ATs reported that when the situation goes beyond their scope of practice, they make a referral but remain actively involved in the patient’s care. Participants reported that the preparation to handle these unique circumstances came from exposure and self-learning rather than entry level education. This research indicates a need for more preparation on mental health situations prior to certification.

Pivotal Dual Language Strategies and their Application Alexandra Sapiega ’21, Elementary Education, Spanish

Advisor: Kathleen King

Students in dual language programs from a variety of backgrounds and language skills all have a goal of developing high levels of proficiency in both their first and second language. As a future teacher, I am intrigued by the strategies to balance class time in both English and Spanish while maintaining a positive, culturally respectful, and engaging environment. My focus is to identify strategies that best foster the learning of Spanish in dual language environments through research of dual language research studies, videos of dual language classrooms, and conducting a survey of two dual language teachers. These sources will aid in triangulating my data and help me discover prominent strategies. My findings identified translanguaging, vocabulary development, cultural lessons, and literacy as the most utilized strategies. Researching and presenting information about this topic can benefit not only myself as a future educator, but other educators in the dual language field.

Déjà Vu All Over Again: Researching Previous Years’ “Censored” News Stories—The FBI and the “Black Identity Extremist” designation Rachael Schwanebeck ’23, History

Advisor: Stephen Macek

Each year, Project Censored releases a list of the “top 25” most important stories overlooked by the corporate news media as part of a yearbook as well as a “Déjà Vu” chapter that details what happened to a selection of previous years’ “top 25” stories, examines subsequent corporate news coverage those stories received and describes new developments in the underlying facts of the stories. My research is a contribution to the “Déjà Vu” chapter for the 2021 book. I examined subsequent coverage of a 2019 story about FBI use of the demonizing “Black Identity Extremist” label for Black protest groups (and the Bureau’s subsequent decision to abandon that designation). Although there was some corporate media reporting on congressional hearings about the FBI’s use of the BIE label, only independent news outlets reported on leaked documents detailing how much time and resources the Bureau devoted to investigating African-American activist groups.

Mental Health On Stage Alexandra Strohbach ’21, Muscial Theatre

Advisor: John Warrick

Given the historical stigma that surrounds mental health, it is no wonder people don’t have honest conversation about their struggles. There is a more recent understanding that speaking on one’s mental health is important and useful. Theatre is a safe space to have difficult conversation, making it a learning opportunity for the audience as well as the actors and creative team involved. As defined by Dr. Tian Dayton, Psychodrama “is a method of treatment that follows people into their inner reality, allowing them to describe it and work with it as they see it.” I have taken my experiences and applied her methods and autobiographical techniques to create a play for the purpose of expanding the mental heath conversation using the medium of theatre. My paper is two-fold, I have my creative work of the play, as well as an accompanying paper that describes the research and creative writing process.

Toward the Use of Counter-Mapping to Understand Mental Illness on Campus Madison Tong ’21, Marketing

Advisor: Carly Drake

College students with mental illness may have a different educational experience than their peers without mental illness. In this study, we focus on students’ experiences surrounding the campus as a physical and social space. Since anxiety and depression are the most common mental illnesses in American colleges, we ask: how do students with anxiety and/or depression experience and understand the college campus? To answer this question, we are conducting 90-minute semi-structured interviews with students who have been diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression, experiencing one or both for at least two years, and have been attending North Central College since fall of 2019. A preliminary interpretation of these interviews shows the uneven relationships students have with a campus that does not always foster good mental health. Campus administrators can use these findings to support students with mental illness as they design and renovate physical spaces and provide health and social resources.

The Identification and Characterization of Various Particulates via Microscopic Techniques Alyssa Tovar ’21, Chemical Microscopy

Advisor: Nicholas Boaz

Microplastics are defined as small plastic particles that are less than 5.0mm in size. Microplastics can be a primary microplastic such as a microbead, or a secondary microplastic such as a water bottle that has degraded into small pieces. Water sources have become contaminated with microplastics and currently much research is still being done on how to analyze microplastics in water. Many sources focus on larger microplastics ranging from 1mm-5mm in size. In this study, a method of filtration was developed for microplastics in water ranging in size from 100mm-350mm and >350mm. Additionally, microplastics found after filtration were identified using Micro-FTIR. Polarizing light microscopy was also used to identify fibers found since Micro-FTIR cannot distinguish between different microplastic fibers. Freshwater sources in Illinois were analyzed for microplastics and after filtration, at least one microplastic was found in each sample. Identification via Micro-FTIR is pending.

Burnout in Young Women Enrica Uhlen ’22, English, Entrepreneurship

Advisor: Jennifer Jackson

My research project examines burnout and applies it strictly to young women. Personally, I can speak to this issue in that young women seem to be carrying a lot of responsibility. This can often lead to stress, anxiety and depression due to contributing factors like social surroundings, society and social media. This is largely an issue that points to millennials; however, my research concerns a younger female audience that starts much earlier than my original hypothesis. The Center for Collegiate Mental Health suggest in “grades 7-12 students who spend over 2hrs/day on social media reported higher depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts” these being some of the contributing factors for burnout. I conducted a survey asking women who fall between the Millennial and GenZ generations who supported feelings of burnout. I argue that this is a problem that should be dealt with support through elementary and high schools through college.

“From Page to Stage:” The Playwright’s Responsibilities for LBGTQIA+ Representation, and My Own Efforts as a Queer Playwright Gelaine Vestal ’21, English, Theatre

Advisor: Laura Lodewyck

“From Page to Stage” is an essay focusing on the responsibilities of the playwright when it comes to writing LGBTQ+ representation for the theatrical stage. The essay begins with a brief history of queer theatre and explains the state of queer theatre today followed by a run-down of recommended practices from scholars of theatre, film, and queer studies. Finally, the essay takes its center around a play that I wrote myself, titled What Happened Here. I discuss my efforts to follow the recommended playwriting practices surrounding representation and ultimately reflect on the production of the play by the North Central College Theatre Department. This project is meant to be a helpful guide to those who would like to join in the effort of creating more positive and dynamic representation for the LGBTQ+ community.

The Relationship Between Ethical Ideologies and Responsibility Attribution Concerning the Misdiagnosis of a Child Grace Vestuto ’21, Psychology, Theatre, Speech Communication Advisor: Karl Kelley Rachel Newlin ’21, Psychology This project examines how subjects’ ethical positions of idealism and relativism, according to Forsyth (1980)’s Ethics Position Questionnaire (EPQ), interact with their judgement of a psychiatrist who has misdiagnosed a child. After completing the EPQ, participants were presented with one of three scenarios wherein the outcome of the misdiagnosis had either negative, neutral, or positive outcomes for the affected child. Subjects were then asked to rate their level of confidence of the psychiatrist following the mistake, as well as how much they agreed with certain traits to describe the psychiatrist (ex. careless, fair, etc.) and with certain punishments for the psychiatrist (ex. censure, revoking of licensure, etc.). The current research found several interactions between conditions and one main interaction between condition and relativism, and comparisons were made to previous findings.

Déjà Nu All Over Again: Researching Previous Years’ “Censored” News Stories—Private Prison Companies Lobbying for Stricter Immigration Law Shealeigh Voitl ’21, Journalism and Media Communication

Advisor: Stephen Macek

Each year, Project Censored releases a list of the “top 25” most important stories overlooked by the corporate news media as part of a yearbook as well as a “Déjà Vu” chapter that details what happened to a selection of previous years’ “top 25” stories, examines subsequent corporate news coverage those stories received and describes new developments in the underlying facts of the stories. This research is a contribution to the “Déjà Vu” chapter for the 2021 book. I investigated what happened to a 2011 story about private prison companies like CoreCivic and GEO Group—who hold roughly a million migrants in their often hazardous, unsanitary detention facilities—lobbying for stricter immigration laws. I found that these companies still spend lavishly on lobbying and, although the Justice Department has severed its agreements with private prisons as of 2021, these companies’ contracts with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) still stand.

The Whole Sun Balancing Upon My Knees: The Indie Artist’s Journey from Start to Stream Shealeigh Voitl ’21, Journalism

Advisor: Jonathon Kirk

This project examines the challenges and labor practices of independent musicians (indie)—or noncommercial artists—working simultaneously as composers, producers, and marketers of their music. The indie musician must first see themselves as the producer who actualizes the original vision and blends technology and artistry to achieve a balanced and cohesive sound. In his book The Producer as Composer, Virgil Moorefield identifies the music producer as an essential auteur of the musical work, as opposed to a strictly technical role, in which aesthetics, arrangement, and design are expanded upon. The producer’s insight as well as the use of digital audio workstations, songwriting techniques, the revision process, equipment choice, and mixing and mastering are evaluated over the course of recording a 4-song EP (mini-album) in a non-conventional studio space. This thesis summarizes the author’s creation of an original musical work and the process in undertaking the roles of songwriter and producer.

Smoking as a Social Facilitator Sarah Wang ’22, Sociology, Psychology

Advisor: Anne Groggel

Smoking has different connotations throughout the world. While it is stigmatized in the context of the United States, in many European countries, such as Spain, smoking is socially accepted in many social settings for young adults. These key differences lead to my research question of how smoking facilitates social interactions? To answer this question, I conducted ethnographic research in bars and restaurants in Barcelona, Spain. Through this research, I observed behaviors of sharing, bonding, and fraternizing. For example in Spain, smoking promotes prosocial behaviors such as sharing when an individual borrows a lighter. This research suggests that despite the health implications, smoking cigarettes reflects a social activity in Spain. Adolescent smoking is a worldwide issue, and this research could be further used to adopt new strategies and methods for programs focusing on cessation.

DinterR: A Data Interaction Reporting Software Gabriel West ’21, Computer Science

Advisor: Sun-il Kim

Software analysis of increasingly larger datasets has given rise to growing questions around efficient data storage and access. Efficient dataset organization can be a function of understanding the different process access patterns within them. Typically, this level of interaction information is either decoupled or outright missing from the user’s perspective while running data analysis. I propose a novel data interaction reporting software solution, DinterR, to address both of these issues. First, DinterR makes use of Linux filesystem event notifications by providing the extra information necessary to answer: what processes are accessing a dataset and what positions within that dataset are being accessed. Further, DinterR supports a user controlled service providing this data in close to real-time either locally or over a network; facilitating further analysis on dataset access patterns.

Personal Music Listening: A Coping Mechanism for College Students Ashley Zima ’22, Choral Music Education

Advisor: Nicole Rivera

Personal music listening has shown to be a tool adolescents use to cope with daily stressors and sorrows. It is also recognized that many college students deal with daily stressors and/or feelings of anxiety or sadness. Through interviewing 10 people, 5 music majors and 5 nonmusic majors, this study aims to gain insight on how college students use personal music listening as a coping mechanism while comparing the differences in use depending on their major. Data suggests that personal music listening plays an “essential” role in some’s lives, more so in the lives of those studying music. It was also found that for some, personal music listening is not something that is actively thought about as a coping mechanism. A common factor among some participants is that music listening provides a sense of togetherness or consolation. Personal music listening is an accessible coping mechanism that can benefit college students.

2021 RALL INTERACTIVE ORAL SESSION #3 1:15 - 2:15 p.m.

Religion and Respect Moderator: Brian Hoffert

No Human Is Illegal: The Stories Behind The Immigration Process Jessica Galindo ’21, Graphic Design

Advisor: David Cordero

Regardless of your stance on this country’s immigration policies, the one thing we can agree on is that families find it difficult to navigate the current immigration system. My thesis exhibition, No Human Is Illegal: The Stories Behind The Immigration Process, is a way of showing you, the public, the time and effort that people within the Mexican community put towards achieving their dream of one day becoming a citizen of the United States. Through pairing experimental paintings and real-life immigrant stories, I hope to show viewers a different perspective. Artworks and research will also be presented on my website to capture the humanity within these case numbers and statistics we see in this country. Immigrants are more than just people far from home, they are also humans with stories to tell.

What Would Jesus Do? How Self-Identified Christians Should Respond to the Immigration Crisis in the US Michael Longworth ’22, Spanish, Human Resource Management

Advisor: Perry Hamalis

Christians are called to love everyone, beyond the boundaries of race, religion, national origin, and, in the case of this study, citizenship status. Located at the intersection of faith and politics, this study examines responses of self-identifying Christians to the immigration crisis in the United States. After surveying the current landscape of immigration policy, two main approaches, “law-and-order” and “welcoming the stranger,” are identified. They are subsequently assessed, based on their congruence with normative claims from Christian scripture and tradition, and considered with the official stances of multiple Christian denominations. The project concludes with a recommended action plan that encourages more Christians to embrace the “welcoming the stranger” approach, calling them to take action and contribute to the creation of justice for one of our nation’s most vulnerable populations.

Religious Pluralism and the Balance Between Community and the Individual Prerana Shrestha ’21, Biochemistry

Advisors: Brian Hoffert, Stuart Patterson

The “Constitution” of the United States explicitly states the idea of religious freedom in the opening words of the First Amendment: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;…”. Yet, the mere tolerance of religious diversity is not the same as religious pluralism, which goes beyond mere tolerance to the active attempt to understand the other. Through an interdisciplinary approach that draws on analysis of texts and case studies of individuals from diverse religious backgrounds, this paper will develop a deeper understanding of religious pluralism and examine the biological and sociological factors that support or undermine the development of genuine religious pluralism. The thesis will ultimately argue that the pursuit of religious pluralism, which is not a given, but must be created is essential for a more socially connected and equitable society.

Interrogating Intolerance and Influence Moderator: William Muck

A Narrative Study of “The Sopranos:” Is It Racist? Giuliano Catalano ’21, Secondary Education, English

Advisor: Sohinee Roy

The popular, revolutionary early 2000s television show, “The Sopranos,” has been critically labeled, by today’s standards, as racist. The focalized character of the show’s narrative, Tony Soprano, a wealthy, white, Italian American male, consistently others African Americans, Jewish Americans, and many other minority groups. Yet, while Tony the character exhibits racist behavior, we must turn to the argument of the show’s narrative and determine whether it is racist. An ethical narrative exhibits awareness of the silent narratives. By using the frame of Chinua Achebe’s “Image of Africa” and his reaction to Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, it is clear that The Sopranos does exhibit consciousness of marginalized narratives and properly represents minority groups. The show’s treatment of race makes it a model for what constitutes ethical representation, as it presents controversial narratives of racism through its characters, but at the same time, critiques racism and its problematic nature.

Yes, but What Kind?: An In-Depth Look at Donald Trump, the Populist Jackson Frank ’21, Political Science

Advisor: William Muck

Donald Trump is regularly accused of being a populist, yet those leveling charges often have inconsistent definitions of populism. In this research project, I developed a four-part measure of populism to more accurately define and categorize the type of populist rhetoric used by Trump. Focusing specifically on Trump’s Twitter activity, I created a database of Trump’s populist tweets and categorized them according to four distinct measures of populism—an anti-establishment index, exclusivity index, the people index, and support for democratic institutions index. Findings indicate that Trump relied most heavily on anti-establishment and exclusivity forms of populism. The former President utilized “slippery slope” arguments to mobilize his base and clearly define the “other.” Trump’s populist rhetoric increased during the 2020 campaign, suggesting he understood this method of communication to be politically advantageous. The findings allow for a more sophisticated understanding of populism and description of Trump’s brand of populism.

Parental and Community Influences on Racial Biases William Swofford ’21, Psychology

Advisor: Raleigh Blasdell

This study investigated how parental and community influences impacted the development of implicit racial biases. Specifically, the following variables were examined: racial socialization, social circles, parental bias, neighborhood demographics, and social/cultural norms. Using a convenience sample of undergraduate students at a private Midwestern college, an online survey was distributed to measure participants’ parents’/guardians’ and community’s views on race. Participants also completed Harvard University’s Implicit Association Test (Race) as part of the survey. Results indicate the extent to which participants’ parents and childhood neighborhood influenced their current racial biases. The implications for policy, child development, self-reflection, and future research are discussed.

Establishing Enviable Environments Moderator: Gwendolyn Tedeschi

Restoring the Midwest: A Look Into Ecological Restoration in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin Anna Baltudis ’21, Environmental Studies

Advisor: Gregory Ruthig

American Midwest ecosystems are at risk due to the invasion of exotic plant species. Increasing growth of exotic and invasive species can decrease biodiversity and deteriorate ecosystem services. Restoration ecology poses a solution to the loss of native ecosystems by providing services like land stewardship and invasive species removal. I worked as a restoration technician to aid in the restoration of prairies, woodlands, bluffs, and dunes in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan. During my work I learned about the ecological history of multiple ecosystems which helped me manage and restore the ecosystems. At one bluff and two dune sites we were able to prevent erosion by seeding and maintaining native flowers and grasses, including common ninebark. At woodland and prairie sites we treated pokeweed, dogbane, and Queen Anne’s lace through chemical and manual methods. This in turn maintained the area’s biodiversity and contributed to helping local ecosystem services.

Consumer Perceptions of the Different Types of Corporate Social Responsibility Natalie Cebulski ’21, Management

Advisors: Xiaoye Chen, Jennifer Jackson

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming an increasingly necessary part of a business’ strategy to remain competitive, but the success of these CSR initiatives depends on a number of elements. One of these elements is how the consumer views the initiative, which gives the consumer considerable power in the market. This study looks at consumers’ reactions to examples of the three different types of CSR initiatives in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data was collected through a series of interviews with North Central students done to understand how different business’ initiatives affected the business’ image, the trustworthiness of the business, and the consumers’ purchasing intention. The results showed that while there is some wariness surrounding big business’ intentions behind CSR engagement, CSR has an overall positive effect on those three factors.

Local Food’s Impact on the Environment and Society Alyssa Crum ’21, Environmental Studies

Advisor: Joanna Weremijewicz

I used my experience working at a local food market this past summer to research the impact local food has on both the environment and society. To do my research I chose three local food products from my workplace, and compared them to their corporate brand counterparts (non-local). I included a canned item, a dairy product, and a piece of produce to get comprehensive results. I explored the positive and negative impacts of both the local brands and the corporate brands. In doing my research, I looked at food miles, pesticide use, environmental hazards, and community benefits. I found that in all three of my comparisons the local brands not only released less carbon dioxide, but overall they had better environmental practices and contributed more to their community. Then, I discussed how we can make a change in our own lives and community.

2021 RALL INTERACTIVE ORAL SESSION #4 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Probing Perceptions Moderator: Stuart Patterson

Does Agency Matter? Government Action and Public Opinion Iselin Brady ’22, Political Science, International Business

Advisor: William Muck

This research project examines the role of agency and whether public interpretations of an international incident are influenced by the government or organization who engages in the action. A survey was given to over 150 students at North Central College in which they were asked to read and answer questions about a hypothetical failed military operation. Those surveyed received the same news article with the only variable being who engaged in the activity (the United States, China, Germany, Iran, or the United Nations). I hypothesize that who the actor is will play a role in determining how the respondent evaluates the action. This project builds on previous research of othering and public perceptions of military action. Findings indicate that respondents are more critical of the United States than the other countries. These results should encourage further research on millennials and Gen-Z’s critical views of U.S. foreign policy.

Understanding Chinese Values on Built Environments Juliet Mathey ’22, Environmental Studies, Chinese

Advisors: Jinai Sun, Stuart Patterson

This project presents change and continuity in Chinese perspectives on built gardens through an examination of the great literary garden, Da Guan Yuan, from the Qing dynasty novel Hong Lou Meng. My project presents evidence from interviews conducted in China in 2019 with scholars, students, and other readers of the novel and establishes how the novel’s traditional view of gardens intersects with a new, modern understanding of human relationships to nature through the timeless Chinese value of yin and yang, or the ceaseless alterations of nature. I pay special attention to architectural elements in actual Chinese gardens and interactions with visitors to classic Chinese gardens to show how, over time, Chinese views of their relationship to the built environment of actual gardens has altered since the writing of Hong Lou Meng in the mid 18th century even while the literary archetype of Da Guan Yuan has continued to influence their views of nature and gardens specifically.

A Look at the Benefits of Spanish Acquisition with Heritage and L2 Speakers as Classmates Abigail Treado ’21, Spanish, Psychology

Advisor: Patricia Bayona

Traditional approaches to higher-level Spanish language education involve a classroom that is mixed between heritage speakers—those who grew up speaking Spanish at home—and non-heritage (L2) speakers. Some scholars believe these students need separate classes and exams to accurately capture the extent of their Spanish fluency. Yet, recent research has shown that heritage and L2 speakers help each other in the Spanish classroom in different ways, such as through unique discussions of the features of their language in the mixed classroom. Preliminary qualitative data from a study on mixed classrooms, currently being conducted by Dr. Bayona at NCC, shows that both heritage and L2 speakers report experiencing benefits in language learning when in mixed language classrooms. There is strong potential for both sets of students to experience benefits in a mixed classroom that would not otherwise be experienced in separate classrooms; this project analyzes new data regarding those benefits.

Studying Stressful Situations Moderator: Nicole Rivera

Jumping Out of the Bus’s Way: Students of Color’s Struggle with Trauma & Stress in the Education System Nicholas Cheop ’22, Secondary Education, English

Advisor: Jennifer Jackson

Childhood adversity and trauma are issues that affect students in schools across the United States. Much of the research done identifies the effects of these issues, but there is not much scholarship focusing on how to help these students. Using a meta-analysis approach, I investigate how English Language Arts educators can use knowledge of childhood trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and trauma-informed practices to create a supportive learning environment for students of color who have faced systemic racism in schools. The results of this research find that students of color come to school with high exposure to trauma and are constantly traumatized by racist bigotry, traditional teaching, harsh disciplinary methods, microaggressions, tracking, and other harms in schools. My research will argue that students of color are constantly facing adversity and educators must develop anti-racist pedagogy to use in the classroom.

When Does This Get Easier? Interpersonal Communication Skills and Concepts for Adolescents Grace Klooster ’21, Organizational Communication

Advisors: Amy Grim Buxbaum, Perry Hamalis

When Does This Get Easier? is a guide that aims to demystify the complicated, messy inner world of interpersonal communication for the people who need it the most: 13-year-olds. Part novella, part research-backed commentary, this text illustrates common social situations adolescents may find themselves in (fighting with a friend, working on a group project, etc), then breaks down the why and how of it all. Why did my friend say that to me? Why don’t they understand what I mean? How can I resolve this without hurting someone’s feelings? The text explains concepts like transactional communication, active listening, cognitive perspective-taking, and conflict resolution styles without condescension and in language able to be understood by young people.

Wondering What Works Moderator: David Cordero

Market Testing Frameworks for Entrepreneurs: A Comparative Analysis and Application Gillian Croasdale ’21, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management

Advisor: Chetan Chawla

In this thesis, I explore the frameworks available to entrepreneurs for market testing their product/service before launch. This is an important initial step in entrepreneurship since it reduces the market risk of entrepreneurship, i.e., the risk of making something that nobody is interested in buying. After a comparative analysis of these three market testing frameworks—Customer Development, Lean Validation, and Where to Play—I go on to provide guidance to entrepreneurs about which framework to pick for their venture. Each validation method has areas it is more useful in; knowing which one to choose can give the validation process a higher chance of giving accurate feedback. Finally, I demonstrate the use of these frameworks by an application of Lean Validation to my own startup idea. In sum, this thesis guides entrepreneurs and researchers alike by offering a comparative analysis, and application of market testing frameworks.

The Responsibility We Wear Warner Hellyer ’21, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management

Advisors: David Cordero, John Warrick

The Responsibility We Wear is an online platform that explains the unethical working conditions garment workers face, globally. With growing awareness in recent decades around environmental and humanitarian issues within the global fashion industry, The Responsibility We Wear aims to continue the conversation in a manner of ethical storytelling by providing tools for users of the platform to affect change. Methods used in this research are scholarly articles amongst North Central College’s available databases, documentaries, and news articles. Through this research, it can be concluded that there is a lack of regulation within the industry that leaves gaps for the unethical treatment of garment workers to continue. Furthermore, there is a rise in advocacy groups and consumer awareness that is beginning to dominate the scene amongst millennials and younger generations. The aim of this research is to help inform the consumer and to provide them with the resources they need to affect change.

Working Hard or Hardly Working Rachel Newlin ’21, Psychology

Advisor: Karl Kelley

Work is an important aspect of life for many people, both abled and disabled. The presence of accommodations is one way to make the workplace more equitable for disabled people. However, accommodations are not always provided, and the individual with accommodations is not always viewed positively. This study looks at how responsible employees with Crohn’s disease are perceived to be for their successes and failures, depending on the presence or absence of accommodations. In this 3X3 scenario, participants received one of nine scenarios, each regarding a math tutor. In the end, we found that tutors with Crohn’s who had accommodations but failed were ranked as performing the worst at their jobs, but tutors with Crohn’s who had accommodations but high amounts of success were ranked as performing the best at their jobs, even compared to abled counterparts and their disabled counterparts who lacked accommodations.

Student

Director

COLLEGE SCHOLAR HONORS THESES Thesis Title

Alicia Alexander ��Nicole Rivera �� Perception of students’ stress during pandemic relative to individual and institutional management Anna Baltudis ��Gregory Ruthig �� Restoring the Midwest: A Look into Ecological Restoration in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin Kaitlyn Boelter-Eberhardt ��Suzanne Chod �� Black Congressional Women Campaign Speeches: Fighting the Societal Bias Alexandria Buck ��Suzanne Chod �� The Electoral College: An Important Political Institution, Misconstrued in American Society Giuliano Catalano ��Zachary Michael Jack �� “A Control Thing” - A Play in Two Acts Natalie Cebulski ��Xiaoye Chen �� Consumer Perceptions of the Different Types of Corporate Social Responsibility Kasie Conness ��Michael Stefanik �� Bilateral NASPM infusion into the NAc shell significantly reduces incubated oxycodone seeking in rats Gillian Croasdale ��Chetan Chawla �� Market testing frameworks for entrepreneurs: a comparative analysis and application Madeline Derango ��Suzanne Chod �� The Understudies of the Court: Exploring Law Clerk Influence on Supreme Court Dissenting Opinions Using Language Variation Signifiers Andrea Du ��Dan Luo �� Comparison of Natural Approach and Community Language Learning Approach: An Attempt at Applying Theory to Practice When Teaching English as a New Language to Mandarin Chinese Speaking Adults. Nicole Durkee ��Kristin Paloncy-Patel �� Athletes perceived loss of identity after injury and a coach’s role in the psychological recovery of athletes Jackson Frank ��William Muck �� Yes, but what kind?: An in-depth look at Donald Trump, the Populist Jessica Galindo ��David Josue Cordero �� No Human is Illegal: The Stories Behind The Immigration Process Allyson Hahn ��Neil Nicholson �� Variations of Cops and Robbers on Toroidal Chess Graphs with Alternating One-Way Streets Caitlin Hamilton ��Jon F Mueller �� The Effect of Linguistic Biases on the Guilt of Male African American Criminal Suspects Warner Hellyer ��David Josue Cordero �� The Responsibility We Wear: A Platform That Explains the Unethical Working Conditions of Garment Workers and How We Can Do Better. Naomi Hill ��Leila Azarbad �� The Effects Of Sociocultural Factors on Body Image in Division III Female Collegiate Athletes Grace Klooster ��Amy Grim Buxbaum �� When Does This Get Easier?: Interpersonal Communication and Conflict Resolution for Adolescents Lorri Kucharski ��Louis Corsino �� Social Media Influencers’ Impact On Society—Do We Live In A Simulated Reality? Michael Longworth ��Perry Hamalis �� What Would Jesus Do? How Self-Identified Christians Should Respond to the Immigration Crisis in the U.S. Rachel Maida ��William Muck �� How People Stopped a Nuclear War: The Influence of Domestic Politics on the Cuban Missile Crisis Caroline Martin ��Judith Brodhead �� Preparing Women Students for Study Abroad Rachel Newlin ��Karl Kelley �� Working Hard or Hardly Working: The Perception of Physical Disabilities in the Workplace Nate Norris ��Sun-il Kim �� Determining Optimal Multi-Layer Perceptron Design for the Card Game Hearts

Jordan Nowlin ��Michael Stefanik �� Quantifying Reactive Astrogliosis during Prolonged Forced Abstinence from Oxycodone Self-Administration Kayla Nuccio ��Mary Beth Ressler �� Teachers’ Perceptions of Bilingual Education: Navigating WhitenessCentered Curricula During a Global Pandemic Bridget O’Brien ��Michael Stefanik �� Microinfusion of the CP-AMPA receptor antagonist, NASPM, decreases oxycodone seeking in the NAc core sub-region after self-administration in male sprague-dawley rats. Taylor O’Neill ��Wioleta Polinska �� Identity Forged in the Religious Crucible: Conflicts of the Soul Jack Plewa ��Jonathan Visick �� Brucella bacteriophages trigger bovine and human immune cell signaling in vitro and suppress activation induced by E. coli LPS in the absence of infection Alexandra Sapiega ��Kathleen King �� Pivotal Dual Language Strategies and their Application Anica Schubert ��Laura Lodewyck �� Imagining the World of Lizzie Siddall Prerana Shrestha ��Brian Hoffert �� Religious Pluralism and the Balance between Community and the Individual Olivia Smith ��Wioleta Polinska �� The Impact of Violent Pornography on Sexual Violence, Coersion, & Degradation Towards Women Samantha Sowa ��Michael Blight �� Childhood Cancer Research Funding: How Nonprofits Can Maximize Donations Alexandra Strohbach ��John Warrick �� Writing a Play for Mental Health Alyssa Tovar ��Nicholas Boaz �� The Analysis of Microplastics in Water With a Lower Limit of 100micrometers in Size Using Filtration Methods and Micro-Ftir Gelaine Vestal ��Laura Lodewyck �� From Page to Stage: The Playwright’s Responsibilities for LGBTQIA+ Representation , and My Own Efforts as a Queer Playwright Grace Vestuto ��Karl Kelley �� Oops+: The Relationship Between Ethical Ideologies and Responsibility Attribution Concerning the Misdiagnosis of a Child Shealeigh Voitl ��Jonathon Kirk �� The Whole Sun Balancing Upon My Knees: The Indie Artist’s Journey from Start to Stream Daniel Wallace ��Leila Azarbad �� Students Helping Students: Examination of Student-Led Collegiate Support Groups and Peer Training

Student(s) Sponsor

Title

RICHTER GRANT RECIPIENTS

Amelia Caliendo ��Anne Groggel �� Perceptions of Sexual Consent and Social Media Destiny Gomez Kelsey McLaurin Kira Cloonan ��Sophie Hand �� Advancing Diversification and Equity in the French Language K-12 Classroom Serene Labadi ��Mara K. Berkland �� Teacher Attitudes and Preparedness for Inclusive Education in Jordan Jordan Nowlin ��Michael Stefanik �� Quantifying Reactive Astrogliosis during Prolonged Forced Abstinence from Oxycodone Self-Administration Megan Vogel ��Michael Stefanik �� Ketamine-Aided Withdrawal to Prevent Relapse to Oxycodone Seeking in Rats