ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM APRIL 21-22, 2009
A Celebration of th e Liberal Arts
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2008
Welcome to the 2009 Rochester College Academic Symposium
A Celebration of th e Liberal Arts As we commemorate Rochester College’s 50th anniversary, we join together over the next two days to celebrate our vibrant academic community with the sixth annual Academic Symposium. Our 2009 Symposium celebrates the academic achievements and capstone projects of 69 Rochester College seniors. This year’s program boasts a diversity of subject matter and format reflected in scholarly papers, executive simulations, public relations campaigns for real world clients, and musical recitals. These presentations are exciting indicators of our mission to “prepare students for a life of study and service” by developing in them increasing abilities to perform scholarly research, to communicate with excellence, and to think critically and creatively. In addition to our student presentations, we are honored to be joined by Dr. Anthony Leggett, winner of the 2003 Nobel Prize in Physics. Dr. Leggett will deliver a keynote address entitled “An Unusual Route into Physics and its Consequences” in which he will share how his training in the classics shaped the way he looks at the world and at the problems of physics. Dr. Leggett also will be the guest of honor for a special afternoon session with young, aspiring scientists from across the Detroit Metro area. We welcome your participation in this wonderful event, and we congratulate our student scholars for their achievements.
Sincerely,
John Barton, PhD Vice President of Academic Affairs
Featured Speaker: Dr. Anth ony Leggett Sir Anthony J. Leggett, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Professor and Center for Advanced Study Professor of Physics, has served on the faculty at the University of Illinois since 1983. He is widely recognized as a world leader in the theory of low-temperature physics, and his pioneering work on superfluidity was recognized by the 2003 Nobel Prize in Physics. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, the American Philosophical Society, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Russian Academy of Sciences (foreign member), and is a Fellow of the Royal Society (U.K.), the American Physical Society, and the American Institute of Physics. He is an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Physics (U.K.). He was knighted (KBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004 “for services to physics.� Professor Leggett has shaped the theoretical understanding of normal and superfluid helium liquids and other strongly coupled superfluids. He set directions for research in the quantum physics of macroscopic dissipative systems and use of condensed systems to test the foundations of quantum mechanics. His research interests lie mainly within the fields of theoretical condensed matter physics and the foundations of quantum mechanics. He is particularly interested in the possibility of using special condensed-matter systems, such as Josephson devices, to test the validity of the extrapolation of the quantum formalism to the macroscopic level; this interest has led to a considerable amount of technical work on the application of quantum mechanics to collective variables and in particular on ways of incorporating dissipation into the calculations. He is also interested in the theory of superfluid liquid 3He, especially under extreme nonequilibrium conditions, in high-temperature superconductivity, and in the newly realized system of Bose-condensed atomic gases.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009
Program of Events TUESDAY, APRIL 21 Plenary Session I: 6:-8:30 p.m. Richardson Center Theatre 6 p.m. Cheesecake Reception 6:30-7:30 p.m. Academic Awards Ceremony and Freshmen Finish Line Ceremony 8 - 9 p.m. Rochester College Concert Band
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22 Concurrent Session A: 9–10:15 a.m. Business I—Ham Library 115 Andrews Corporation: John Djurovski, Daniel Drwencke, Robert Fragoso, Jay Gilman, Steve Stuecher Baldwin Corporation: Evan Cowan, Rachel DePasquale, Christian Eaves, Katie LeComte, Kyle York English 1: Richardson Center 202 Jordan Ackerman: Motivating Students to their Highest Potential Adrian Gonzalez: La Dulce Verdad (The Sweet Truth) Legal Research 1: Richardson Center 117 Patricia Aiken: Legal Aspects of Adoption Amanda Crump: Sex, Lies & Politics Mathematics 1 — Ham Library 113 Mary Kruger: Human Genetic Engineering: Using Gene Therapy as a Means to Cure Disease Megan Miller: Math with the Brain in Mind Psychology 1 — Ham Library 112 Trisha Dasher: Do Celebrities Make Us Sad?: Media Effects on Body Image Among Undergraduate Female College Students Corey Goldsmith: Videogames & Aggression: A Misperception of Cause Religion 1 — Auditorium East James Auger: Young Life: Using Jesus’ Model of Ministry 2,000 Years Later Bertoia, Carlo: The Evolution of Blasphemy
Plenary Session 2: 10:30–11:15 a.m. An Unusual Route into Physics and its Consequences by Dr. Anthony Leggett Richardson Center Theatre
Concurrent Session B: 12:45–2 p.m. Business 2—Ham Library 115 Chester Corporation: Ryan Gailbreath, Kristen Landenberger, Kathryn Malone, Keith Walters Digby Corporation: Matthew Austin, Hannah Cauley, Zachary Hillman, Vivian Shelton English 2 — Richardson Center 202 Clayton Hargrave: Musing of the Anomaly Dawn Harroun: Living with Autism: A Joy and a Challenge Jessie Kramer: The Unknown Heir Legal Research 2 — Richardson Center 117 Amanda Murphy: Insanity Defense in a Criminal Case Michael Neaton: Life in Prison for 650 Grams of Cocaine Psychology 2 — Ham Library 112 Katie King: How the Knife Changed My Life: Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Physical Well-being, Self-Esteem and Quality of Life Gwendolyn Martin: Am I Prejudice? Public Relations 1 — Ham Library 113 Kenneth Cox: Brown Dog Welding: Setting The Web On Fire Kirstin Fish: Crafting a Creative Strategy: A Cutting-Edge Campaign for Scrap Happy Ashley Mackinnon: H.I.S Ministry: Using PR Methods to Increase Service Opportunities Religion 2 — Auditorium East Brandon Ellis: Church in Transition: Invitation into the Mission of God Jonathan Geering: Teach Us To Cry: Poetic Lament Courtney Jenko: Of Thin Places & Patrick: A Look at Celtic Christianity in Ireland
Special Session: 1-2:30 p.m. 90 Minutes with a Nobel Physics Winner Dr. Anthony Leggett Richardson Center Theatre
Concurrent Session C: 2:15–3:30 p.m. Business 3 — Ham Library 115 Erie Corporation: Stephen Bone, Kristian Paich, Trevor Wilson, Billy Wineland English 3 — Richardson Center 202 Cassie Mainero: I Am Writing Eric Phifer: A Thin Line Hayley Steinkopf: The Works and Minds of Poets and Artists: How They Inspire One Another Psychology 3 — Ham Library 112 Nora Nasser: Who Am I and What Did My Parents Do to Me? Loren Obrien: Do Scary Movies Give Us Nightmares?: The Effects of Movie Genres On Our Dreams
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009
Public Relations 2 — Ham Library 113 Elizabeth Fulton: A Flair for Fashion: Fashioning An Innovative Public Relations Campaign Kristin Rice: A Tavola: Bringing Customers To The Table Religion 3 — Auditorium East Matt Kunkel: Theological Savvy via Vexing Times Josh Smith: The Trinity Science 1 — Richardson Center 117 Brandon Armstrong: Great Concern for the Great Lakes Thomas Schaefer: Hands on Science in the 21st Century Classroom
Concurrent Session D: 3:45–5 p.m. English 4 — Richardson 202 Courtney Strahan: Humanity, Confession and Acceptance Paul Wriston: Myths and Masterminds: The Superhero as Literature History 1 — Ham Library 115 Alex Chirco: Atomic Bomb Debate Kara Noble: Henry Ford: Patriot or Profiteer, A look into Ford’s involvement during the war James Renton: Examination of the Extent and Style of Hitler’s Power in the Third Reich; Exploring the Intentionalist Versus Functionalist Debate Interdisciplinary Studies 1/Communication 1 — Ham Library 113 Jaron Bentley: Meaning and Suffering in Wiesel and Volf Ashley Mackinnon: Baring It All In Business: The Birds and the B’s of Social Media Math 2/Science 2 — Richardson Center 117 Kristen Herdman: Avoiding Instant Mashed Potato Math: Encouraging Conceptual Understanding in the Teaching of Mathematics Brian Tsacoumangos: The Eastern Coyote: Can it Continue to Co-exist with Humans in a Suburban/Urban Environment? Psychology 4 — Ham Library 112 Verdine Williams: Music Makes Me Lose Control: A Question of Music Influencing Aggression Religion 4 — Auditorium East Zechariah Schewe: Christianity and War Adam Southerland: The Postmodern Emerging Church
Session E: 8:15-9:15 p.m. Music I—Richardson Center Theatre Chris Hall: Senior Recital for Piano and Guitar Jessica Schatz: Senior Recital for Piano and Guitar
Student Abstracts Jordan Ackerman Major: Secondary Education (English) Hometown: Armada, MI Motivating Students to their Highest Potential Motivating students is possibly one of the most important factors in regards to a student’s success or failure. With an increasing drop out rate as well as low test scores nationwide, students clearly are not motivated to learn and become life-long learners. By surveying over 100 high school and middle school students, as well as 40 teachers, I have been able to identify ways in which students feel they learn best and ways in which teachers feel they can get the most out of their students. By researching the topic of motivating students, accompanied by the teacher-student survey, it is clear what the most successful techniques are to motivate middle and high school aged students. Patricia Aiken Major: Interdisciplinary Studies Hometown: Madison Heights, MI Legal Aspects of Adoption Adoption has many aspects to it including the different types. There are certain procedures that must be followed in order to complete the adoption process. This presentation will touch on some of the various types of adoption as well as some legal aspects involved. Brandon Armstrong Major: Elementary Education (Integrated Science) Hometown: Waterford, MI Great Concern for the Great Lakes The current water levels of the Great Lakes are a major concern for residents living in and around the Midwest region of the United States. Over the last decade, fluctuating water levels have resulted in alarm to those who rely on the usage of water, whether for business or recreation. The effects of the current episode of lower water levels are hazardous to the environment as well. Current living conditions are unstable for various fish and wildlife whose survival depends on the existence of water. The notion of climate change has been considered the primary cause for the Great Lakes to be evaporating. Historically speaking, however, this is not the first time the Great Lakes region has experienced a decline in water levels. Data shows that the Great Lakes have experienced a natural sequence of water recession before – actually, over the last 4700 years. No one knows for sure what or who may be the cause of lower water levels, if there is even something to blame. Factors such as seasonal patterns and shifts in weather conditions over the years may be a contributor. At the same time, Michigan’s dependence on water regarding manufacturing and industry, whether used for transportation or for power, adds concern to the crisis. While the Great Lakes offer many benefits to residents, businesses, and the environment, an unending list of those being affected continues to build. Although lowered water levels are a concern today, is there anything we can do to remedy the situation, or should we let nature run its course?
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009 James Auger Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Imlay City, MI Young Life: Using Jesus’ Model of Ministry 2,000 Years Later During the 2007-08 school year alone, the ministry of Young Life succeeded in ministering and witnessing to almost 800,000 junior and senior high school students in the United States. Their secret to success is a 2,000-year-old approach to ministry that was practiced by Jesus Christ during his ministry while on earth. By examining the five C’s of Young Life: committee, contact work, club, campaigners and camp, people will see a personal and successful way to reach teens today, tomorrow and forever. Jaron Bentley Major: English Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Meaning and Suffering in Wiesel and Volf An examination of the relationship of meaning, suffering, and memory in Elie Wiesel’s From the Kingdom of Memory and theologian Miroslav Volf’s The End of Memory and Exclusion and Embrace. Carlo Bertoia Major: Biblical Studies Hometown: Brighton, MI The Evolution of Blasphemy This paper is a study of the Greek word Blasphemia (blasphemy as we know it today) and its evolution from the 8th century BCE up until the 2nd century CE. This is then utilized to better understand the word’s meaning within the context of 2nd Peter and Jude. The study includes usages from Greek philosophers, orators, and historians, as well as Jewish writings from the Apocrypha, Philo and some of the Christian early church fathers. Alex Chirco Major: Secondary Education (History) Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Atomic Bomb Debate My senior project will break down and discuss the atomic bomb debate during World War II. During World War II, the United States faced an enormous decision on whether or not to use the first atomic bomb in the world’s history. Presidents Roosevelt and Truman faced this issue toward the end of World War II. Does the United States use the atomic bomb on Japan once Pearl Harbor was bombed by them? This is a hotly contested debate that is still discussed strongly today. My essay is going to discuss both sides of this issue. I have gathered plenty of good sources that seem to support strong arguments from both sides. This essay will discuss in detail, the best reasons for the justification of the bomb and for not using the bomb. This essay will discuss the pros and cons of each side and then I will finish the essay with a few thoughts of my own.
Amanda Crump Major: Interdisciplinary Studies (Pre-Law and Sports Management) Hometown: Oxford, MI Sex, Lies and Politics Throughout the past decade, much corruption among elected political leaders has been brought to the attention of the public eye. Society has witnessed men of high stature lie and break the law to cover up their greatest blunders. However, what happens to these politicians once their indiscretions have been revealed? In this project, a historical timeline of facts and events are discussed leading up to the scandals revealed of politicians at the federal, state and local levels of government; and more importantly, what punishments, if any, follow these scandals. Following these events will be a discussion and proposal of how to prevent history from repeating itself among later elected officials. Trisha Dasher Major: Psychology Hometown: Fenton, MI Do Celebrities Make Us Sad? : Media Effects on Body Image among Undergraduate Female College Students In this current investigation, the researcher examined how women are presented in popular media and the effects of such presentations on female undergraduate college students. Group one was shown thin models, actresses and body types. Group two was shown pictures of women who have an average body weight and an above average body. Results demonstrated that constant exposure to the media’s thin models and body types influences self-evaluations. Brandon Ellis Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Clinton Township, MI Church in Transition: Invitation into the Mission of God The resources and tools used in attempt to grow today’s American church are not concurrent with this generation. Cultural expectations of church have shifted and change is happening continuously. As a result of this change, church growth is at an all-time low. A more relevant leadership style must be addressed in order to maintain this problem and redirect the church. This presentation will submit a style of leadership entitled “Missionality.” This leadership invokes action in congregants and invites the congregation to join in the “mission” of God. Jonathan Geering Major: Biblical Studies Hometown: Lake Orion, MI Teach Us to Cry: Poetic Lament This symposium will begin with an exegesis of Psalm 39, followed by a personal and theological reflection based upon class readings. It will seek to explain biblical lament psalms as a dual reality consisting of a personal prayer for God’s deliverance as well as a prophetic statement of grief which can be incorporated into modern Christian worship. The discussion will conclude with a consideration of Psalm 39 functioning as TORAH, as well as its application to modernity.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009 Corey Goldsmith Major: Psychology Hometown: Petoskey, MI Videogames & Aggression: A Misperception of Cause Research has not consistently shown that violent videogames cause aggression in people. Despite this, it has become increasingly common for the popular media to treat them as if they do; it is assumed that, being exposed to, and responding with virtual violence carries over into the real world and causes increased aggression. In the professional world, opinions are divided and findings are inconclusive, contradictory, or not backed with solid research. After playing a violent videogame, subjects in this study were rated with two aggression questionnaires, a revised version of Eysenck’s Psychoticism scale, and asked questions about their videogame playing habits. This study differentiates between subjects who are rated as high, low, or average on the psychoticism scale and whether a specific rating of psychoticism is indicative of a person having more aggression because of prolonged exposure to violent videogames. A link between psychoticism and increased aggression was found but there is no significant evidence that violent videogames cause aggression. Post-hoc analyses are used to discuss possible connections between player’s personality traits, videogame exposure, and how their mind processes the stimulation of the brain. Adrian Gonzalez Major: English Hometown: Hamilton, Ontario, Canada La Dulce Verdad (The Sweet Truth) Traveling the course of my life every December to Mexico City, I have captured a different standard of living and a unique beauty and outlook on just how misfortunate people are in other countries. I have seen the pain and struggle that people go through in their day-to-day lives to keep on surviving. My project entails personal poems about the other cultural side of Mexico that has not been seen through the eyes of many. These poems portray my personal experience in Mexico, meaning that each poem will be from my point of view and is influenced by my very own emotional appeal. Each will captivate personal experiences with family members; individuals I noticed on the streets, who I have developed an emotional attachment too, and different aspects I have seen and heard that I do not see in any other place. All of these intimate poems will come together and become an intimate collaboration of a cultural storyline that will be an eye opener to many and help people see in our society that there is more to an individual and culture that meets the eye. Chris Hall Major: Music Hometown: Birmingham, United Kingdom Senior Recital for Piano and Guitar This presentation satisfies the senior recital requirement for the bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees in music. This hour-long recital will explore music for piano and guitar by classic, romantic, and modern composers. Of particular interest will be the Fantasia, Op. 145 for piano and guitar by the 20th-century Italian composer, Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. Clayton Hargrave Major: Interdisplinary Studies: (Professional Writing/Music) Hometown: Marion, OH Musing of the Anomaly I will be presenting a short story that focuses on the theme of consequence. The aim is to provide a sense of realism for the reader, reminding them of just how precious life is. The tale focuses on a man who has lost all hope and wants nothing more than death to sweep him away. In the end he might get what he wishes for, but not without a price.
Dawn Harroun Major: Math & English Hometown: Holly, MI Living with Autism: A Joy and a Challenge Living with a person with autism is a joy and a challenge. Every family will experience moments of great joy and moments of great struggle, whether autism is a factor or not. Autism is simply another of life’s challenges that has to be overcome — like colic, potty training, Algebra homework, dating, and all the “problems” that teens face. The way we cope with any of these challenges can make us stronger and closer as a family, or they can break us and drive us apart. It becomes the challenge of every family member to learn to cope with and assist the person with autism, so that the family can be enriched by the experience. Kristen Herdman Major: Secondary Education (Mathematics) Hometown: Macomb, MI Avoiding Instant Mashed Potato Math: Encouraging Conceptual Understanding in the Teaching of Mathematics Mathematics in schools today is becoming a set of rules and procedures to be followed. In teaching strictly via the use of algorithms and formulas when introducing mathematical ideas, teachers are stifling the beauty of mathematics, and are keeping students from understanding the concepts behind the math that they are learning. In turn, this method of teaching keeps students from developing the mathematical power needed in order to carry the math they learn in the classroom on into the real world. This paper discusses ways in which teachers of mathematics can incorporate strategies into their lessons to enhance the conceptual understanding of mathematics, reasons why it is so important to do so, what a teacher must know and do in order to accomplish this goal, and the challenges facing teachers today that may hinder this process. Courtney Jenko Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Oxford, MI Of Thin Places and Patrick: A Look at Celtic Christianity in Ireland Journeying to Ireland we will survey the Christianity that was formed when pagan religion met the gospel. Looking at Saint Patrick’s mission work and the traditions and rituals that were a part of it, the historical significance of Celtic Christianity will be explored. Through the investigation of modern practices and the popular phenomena of “Celtic Spirituality” the relevance for Christians today will also be addressed. Katie King Major: Psychology Hometown: Hillsdale, MI How the Knife Changed My Life: Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Physical WellBeing, Self-Esteem, and Quality of Life Obesity is an ever-growing problem in the United States today. There are many approaches to weight loss, but the most novel is bariatric surgery. This surgery is a lifechanging commitment and is not without risk. However, the benefits of weight loss surgery seem to speak for themselves. This study was sent to 5,400 previous bariatric patients and examined the impact of the surgery on their physical well-being, self-esteem, and quality of life. Previous recipients of weight loss surgery reported an overwhelming change in their lives post-surgery in all aspects examined.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009 Jessie Kramer Major: English Literature Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI The Unknown Heir An exploration of the creative process involved in the production of a novella entitled “The Unkown Heir.” This presentation will introduce portions of the creative work as well as discuss the origins of idea, the development of the piece over time, and the challenges of assembling a cohesive story. Mary Kruger Major: Elementary Education (Integrated Science) Hometown: St. Clair Shores, MI Human Genetic Engineering: Using Gene Therapy as a Means to Cure Disease This report deals with the issues surrounding the new age technology of genetic engineering in human beings, and the technological breakthroughs associated with the procedure of gene therapy. Every day new and more innovative technologies are being discovered causing the issues of genetic engineering to stem away from what can be done, to what should be done. Researchers are constantly discovering new ways to improve and change our way of life as a mode of convenience, quality of life, and prosperity. There are always risks surrounding the alteration of a human’s genes, because of physical as well as ethical problems that may arise. This issue has become very controversial and exceedingly difficult to find a universal conclusion that satisfies all sides of the spectrum, as science continues to progress in this area. Matthew Kunkel Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Theological Savvy via Vexing Times As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17 I spent the first two of my four years here at Rochester College angry. Being a born and raised Lutheran attending a school run by a denomination I knew virtually nothing about was harder than I thought it would be. And quite frankly much of the rhetoric employed by my teachers and the people who spoke in assembly bothered me. Actually, it grated against my soul and everything I knew to be true about God and the nature of my Christianity. Somewhere between sophomore and junior year I had an epiphany. The strong feelings I felt in my experience here had forced me to hone my own ideas about these theological concepts that I felt so strongly about. Four years later not much of my beliefs have changed, but my perspective and understanding has risen greatly. The end result might have been what any good professor is looking for in a student, but I definitely felt like I took the back way around to get to it. (Please, let a student feel unique for once) Humor and perseverance that could have only come from God kept me looking forward with the knowledge that this is making me a better man. (Who will most likely shave the beard for his presentation)
Ashley Mackinnon Major: Communication (Media Studies) Hometown: Troy, MI Baring it All in Business: The Birds and the B’s of Social Media Blogging and micro-blogging are quickly changing how the world communicates with one another and between businesses and consumers. Blogs create a type of transparency that is unique for the way businesses communicate to the world. Blogs have created a way for businesses to be more truthful in what they are doing and those that are not truthful are quickly weeded out by the public’s careful eye. This project will focus on understanding the need for businesses to embrace social media in the form of blogs and micro-blogging and why management fears this type of transparency. I will display examples of businesses that are embracing the technology in a beneficial way and those that have not succeeded. The project will focus on the new popularity of micro-blogging by explaining what it is and why businesses are choosing a medium like Twitter to get connected to customers and their networks. Finally the project will discuss ways for businesses to measure the success of different types of blogging and how by linking blogs to other forms of social media, such as Facebook and MySpace, readership could increase. Cassie Mainero Major: Secondary Education (English) Hometown: Troy, MI I Am Writing I am writing. I have been inventing, critiquing, analyzing, and perfecting a voice of my own to share and I think I’ve found it. I’ve found it using experiences, people I love, and places that are so familiar I can tell you every detail just by closing my eyes. These things that I love are the heart of my project — my words should flow organically and naturally onto the page, because I know them so well. My desire for this project is to show the growth I have made as a writer ever since I stumbled across this ongoing conversation of writing and the discovery of a voice, my voice. This project is an opening to my heart — a movement from one prose to the next, because simply put; I am writing. Gwendolyn Martin Major: Psychology Hometown: Detroit, MI Am I Prejudice? Social interactions between different groups were examined in this study. Everyone has some type of prejudice whether it is conscious or unconscious. Most of the time people try to hide it, because they don’t want to be labeled a racist. Subjects were given an Implicit Association Test (IAT). The IAT revealed prejudice, sometimes even toward one’s own race even though some subjects were attempting to answer the questions in a socially acceptable manner. This study shows how everyone has prejudice and it does not matter who you are. Megan Miller Major: Second Education (Mathematics) Hometown: Waterford, MI Math with the Brain in Mind The brain naturally functions to construct meaning of the world around us, which is the foundation of all learning. As a result, many educators have turned to neuroscientists to discover the science of learning. Working hand-in-hand with neuroscientists, educators can discover why certain techniques are effective or ineffective in the classroom. Understanding how the brain naturally learns and takes in information sheds light on successful pedagological techniques that can be readily used in any classroom, especially in the field of mathematics.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009 Nora Nasser Major: Psychology Hometown: Troy, MI Who Am I and What Did my Parents Do to Me? This study explores the means by which one achieves his/her self-identity. Self-identity was evaluated by examining the relationship with the parents and peers during adolescence. Looking at responses from 50 college-age students, relationship with parent was found to affect the adolescent’s decision-making and relationship with peers. Adolescents with more positive communication and autonomous decision-making have a more positive sense of self-identity. Michael Neaton Major: Interdisciplinary Studies (Pre-Law) Hometown: Richmond, MI Life in Prison for 650 Grams of Cocaine In 1991, Allen Harmelin was convicted under Michigan law of possessing more than 650 grams of cocaine and sentenced to a mandatory term of life in prison without possibility of parole. The focus of this project will be on the developments in the case of Harmelin v. Michigan. Information regarding the arrest and trial, appeal to the Michigan Supreme Court, and appeal to the U.S Supreme Court will be presented. This project’s purpose is to give an accurate description of the proceedings and developments of the case, thus giving you a deeper and better understanding of the Michigan and U.S. justice systems. I also will explain how the law is changed through the judgments of the court. The case that has been chosen is rare and informative because of all the different steps taken by the defendant and the decisions that are made by the different courts throughout the process of appeal. Kara Noble Major: History Hometown: Roseville, MI Henry Ford: Patriot or Profiteer, A Look into Ford’s Involvement During the War Henry Ford is known for many things in the state of Michigan and throughout the world. He is known for creating the Model T and the assembly line for mass production. During World War II, he became known for helping in the fight against Germany and Japan. However there has been major debate over whether or not Ford was also helping Germany during the war with his company in Cologne, Ford-Werke. Did his anti-Semitic views play a role in the belief that Ford was helping the other side? Did Ford profit financially from Ford-Werke during its operation at the time of the war? Studies have shown that even though Ford may have held anti-Semitic feelings, he in no way benefited financially from the operations of Ford-Werke during the war. The purpose of this paper is to determine what role Henry Ford played during the war. Loren Obrien Major: Psychology Hometown: Clawson, MI Do Scary Movies Give Us Nightmares?: The Effects of Movie Genres on our Dreams “One, two, Freddie’s coming for you, three, four, better lock your door, five, six, grab a crucifix, seven, eight, gonna stay up late, nine, ten, never sleep again,” chant the little girls in the white dresses jumping rope at the end of the cult classic “Nightmare on Elm Street.” Freddie Kruger would come for you in your dreams if you let the fear overcome you. Many of us have seen scary movies and then perhaps had nightmares about them. One of Sigmund Freud’s fascinations was the study of dreams. The Interpretation of Dreams was one of the achievements of which he was most proud. Fifty Rochester College students were given a dream survey and questionnaire to fill out about their favorite movie genres. The data revealed whether or not dreams are really affected by the movies that we watch.
Eric Phifer Major: Interdisciplinary Studies (Business and Professional Writing) Hometown: Des Moines, IA A Thin Line “A Thin Line” is a combination of science fiction and fantasy. The main character, Twyla, was orphaned and does not know where she came from. Her only real friend is Tamara, an old woman who asks more than she tells. Twyla constantly wrestles with where she belongs in the world and why she has these abilities. James Renton Major: History Hometown: Northampton, England Examination of the Extent and Style of Hitler’s Power in the Third Reich; Exploring the Intentionalist versus Functionalist Debate The extent of Hitler’s power in Nazi Germany has become a debated issue in historical circles. The traditional viewpoint, from Intentionalist Historians, believes that Hitler was the all-powerful Führer in complete control of Germany. However, in recent years, due to new evidence available, the Functionalist Historians have offered a different view. They believe that many of the decisions and policies that Germany followed came from officers and party officials below Hitler; they do not, however, excuse him. I will argue that in fact a synthesis of the two ideas is more likely to be accurate. There can be no question surrounding Hitler’s role as head of state; however, it is clear that a vast majority of policy was enacted from people under Hitler. I believe that as all these men were engaged in these policies to please the Führer, by following what was perceived to be his will; this, in fact, did mean Hitler was in control. It was an unorthodox method that gave much power in policy to others, but ultimately allowed him to reign supreme. Thomas Schaefer Jr. Major: Biology Hometown: Ortonville, MI Hands on Science in the 21st Century Classroom The changing state of our global economy and our increased state of ecological awareness has called for new innovate ways to approach science education in the 21st century classroom. Many classrooms across the nation are trying to implement a more hands-on approach to science education. Students are being given the opportunity to explore alternative energy sources, practice sustainable agricultural techniques, and are introduced to the increasing amount of professions in the field of science. In doing so, students are becoming active participants in the learning process by discovering knowledge themselves, rather than passively absorbing it. Why isn’t the hands on approach being implemented into all classrooms across the nation? Proponents to this method argue such points as its costly nature, lack of available resources to teachers, and an unproven increase of student achievement resulting from hands-on lessons. Whatever the case may be, moving from traditional methods of teaching isn’t an easy process. One thing is certain, the future calls for more individuals in the field of science and sparking interest in today’s youth is the first step in creating the leaders of tomorrow. Jessica Schatz Major: Music Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Senior Recital for Piano and Guitar This presentation satisfies the senior recital requirement for the bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees in music. This hour-long recital will explore music for piano and guitar by classic, romantic, and modern composers. Of particular interest will be the Fantasia, Op. 145 for piano and guitar by the 20th-century Italian composer, Mario CastelnuovoTedesco.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009 Zechariah Schewe Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Berkley, MI Christianity and War War is alive and well within most of the world today. Christianity has gone through periods dominated by pacifism in the early church and then Just War form the time after Constantine. With scripture telling us to seek justice for the poor but at the same time to love our enemies what is the church supposed to do? With a so-called Christian nation at the helm of the most powerful standing army in history is the church to support or speak out against the wars currently being waged? Many call for violence as just for the sake of the oppressed while others say that you cannot love your neighbor and go to war with him at the same time. Does pacifism have relevance in the church or should it stick to an idea of Just War for the sake of the oppressed? Josh Smith Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Leonard, MI The Trinity The Trinity is one of the oldest and most fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith. It is also one of the most difficult aspects of Christian theology because of its complexity and mystery. A general understanding of the Trinity can enhance how God is known and related to. Adam Southerland Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Monroe, MI The Postmodern Emerging Church The failures of modernity left the Western World in search for a new identity. The new identity that was established was the postmodern worldview. This worldview has resulted in many changes. One of the most important results was the Postmodern Emerging Church. Bringing in a new wave of thinking and a new outlook on ministry, the Postmodern Emerging Church has grown at an enormous rate making it a big player in the future of Christianity. Hayley Steinkopf Major: English Hometown: Livonia, MI The Works and Minds of Poets and Artists and How They Inspire One Another In this presentation and paper, I will try to convey the works of famous artists and poets and how their creative minds have interpreted and inspired each others’ masterpieces. Some of the poets I will be exploring are Sylvia Plath, Joyce Carol Oates, David Gascoyne and John Donne. Some of the artists I will be exploring are Salvador Dali, Edward Hopper, Giorgio De Chirico, Vincent Van Gogh and Rene Magritte. I will observe how the earlier artists inspired the later artists and how they affected their lives and their works. I will go about doing this by reading about their lives and researching their works to find the effect of the aforementioned artists.
Courtney Strahan Major: English Hometown: Holland, MI Humanity, Confession, and Acceptance A great thing about literature and writing is that it morphs, and lately, authors have been spending a lot of time in the Memoir genre. This genre is very confessional and autobiographical in that it lays an author’s life out on paper. Tony Hendra’s memoir titled “Father Joe” is one of the most confessional memoirs that can be read today. Being inspired by Hendra’s memoir, this project digs into the idea and practice of confession, not in need of absolution, but in need of acceptance, among humanity. Brian Tsacoumangos Major: Biology Hometown: Troy, MI The Eastern Coyote: Can it Continue to Co-exist with Humans in a Suburban/Urban Environment? The eastern coyote, a new genetic hybrid, has been documented in every suburban/ urban locale east of the Mississippi River. Behavior, population, movement patterns, survival rates and diet are compared with several scientific studies to reveal the ways coyotes have adapted to fragmented urban landscapes. Range and population numbers are presented from various state data. In the late 1990s, Chicago reported the removal of over 350 nuisance coyotes per year, a concern that is common in other eastern cities. Media attention has focused on coyotes because their numbers have dramatically increased, they spread diseases to other canines like rabies, and attacks on pets and humans have increased. Coyote management strategies are presented. State DNR websites list specific behavior humans need to adopt to deter coyotes from their neighborhoods, such as not feeding them, making loud noises to chase them away, keeping pets and food indoors, use repellents and fencing, and reporting problem or sick animals to their local animal control agency immediately. Information and coordination among communities is the key to preventing coyotes from becoming a danger to humans. Verdine Williams Major: Psychology Hometown: Chicago, IL Music Makes Me Lose Control: A Question of Music Influencing Aggression The purpose of this research experiment is to see if music has an impact on aggression. Questionnaires were given to 55 male and female students at Rochester College. Subjects listened to a musical specific genre selected by the experimenter. While listening to the music selection, the subjects completed the questionnaires. The findings indicated that there was a highly significant relationship between musical content and aggression. Paul Wriston Major: Interdisciplinary Studies (Professional Writing) Hometown: Warren, MI Myths and Masterminds: The Superhero as Literature Comic books and superheroes have been a part of American pop culture for generations. However, it has been only in the last 25 years that they have become a part of literary debate. To continue the ongoing discussion on the comic book, we must first discover a universal definition of what a comic is, how the genre functions through the use of images and prose to develop a story, and why technique works for storytelling. Secondly, through use of some of the more popular figures of comic books, the superheroes, we shall see if comics can stand up to literary criticism and what is trying to be said through the symbolism of the superhero.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009
Pu blic Relations Client Campaigns Each senior public relations major plans, develops and implements a PR campaign for a real world client. The students will present their PR plans and their portfolio of work during their presentations. Kenneth Cox Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Brown Dog Welding: Setting the Web on Fire Brown Dog Welding is a new one-man welding shop in Mt. Clemens that creates sculptures, furniture, and accessories. Brown Dog Welding is a creative and unique business that needs to be marketed properly. An aggressive PR plan was necessary to get the name and the product of Brown Dog Welding out into the public. Brand recognition is a key part of the PR plan for Brown Dog Welding which also includes internet, social media, press releases, photos, media and community relations. The two main goals of Brown Dog Welding for this PR campaign are to boost the customer base and to show the community that BDW cares. Kirstin Fish Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: North Branch, MI Crafting a Creative Strategy: A Cutting-Edge Campaign for Scrap Happy During an economic downturn, studies have shown that there is an increase in crafting activity. Scrap Happy, a small town scrapbooking supply shop, seeks to cater to craft enthusiasts and creative types by providing materials for individuals to build scrapbooks and photo albums that preserve memories from events like birthdays, vacations, graduation, etc. However, because of the shop’s location, Scrap Happy does not enjoy the public visibility needed for growth and financial success. In this project, a comprehensive public relations approach is taken with the goal of designing and implementing creative strategies for the shop to maintain its current customer base and also attract new customers. A strategic PR plan is combined with a thorough PR portfolio, which includes written materials, media relations, design elements, and social media opportunities, to show how community awareness and brand recognition can be improved to communicate Scrap Happy’s presence more effectively. Elizabeth Fulton Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Columbia City, IN A Flair For Fashion: Fashioning an Innovative Public Relations Campaign Although Flair Boutique of Royal Oak, Michigan has experienced much success since opening its doors in 2002, the addition of a Rochester store, the hopes for future expansion of the Flair brand, and current economic trends in the state press upon the business’s need for a targeted publicity plan. In this project, an organized and specialized public relations campaign strategy which includes an array of traditional and contemporary industry tactics is presented in a polished portfolio, empowering Flair Boutique of Rochester to grow and expand to its full potential, strengthen its place in the community and perpetuate a lucrative future.
Ashley Mackinnon Communication (Media Studies) Hometown: Troy, MI H.I.S. Ministry: Using PR Methods to Increase Service Opportunities The Helping Individuals Succeed (H.I.S.) Ministry is located at the Bristol Road Church of Christ and provides food and clothing to individuals and families in need in the surrounding areas once a month. The nation as a whole is facing hard economic times; Flint has been hit the hardest, with the Flint Journal reporting a 14.8 percent unemployment rate. With the hard times many more families have had to turn to other places to gain supplemental help with things such as food and clothing. H.I.S. Ministry has been one of the places that many people are now turning to. H.I.S. Ministry needs to make its presence known within the community to gain assistance from the community through volunteers, donations, and partnership with other churches in the area. H.I.S. Ministry can do this by creating a clearly specified PR campaign toward the areas of volunteers, donations, and partnerships, to help create growth by assisting people who are in need. By doing so, H.I.S. Ministry will be creating a unity within the community between congregations by assisting those in need in their area. Kristin Rice Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Edmond, OK A Tavola: Bringing Customers to the Table A Tavola, a home-based catering company, has been part of the Oakland County community for the past four years. Due to the current economic trends, A Tavola has decided it is time to increase company awareness through the implementation of social media and traditional PR practices. The goal of this PR campaign is to become a known name in the catering industry throughout Oakland County, primarily in the Rochester area. Over the course of this campaign, the use of traditional PR practices (such as press releases and direct mail pieces) as well as new and social media (such as blogging and the use of Facebook) have been used to demonstrate the potential growth for this company.
ROCHESTER COLLEGE ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM 2009
Executive Simulations Students will present the results of their work as the management team of separate, yet competing, corporations with an executive simulation of the electronic sensor industry. The scenario is that each team has served as the managing directors for the equivalent of eight years of business and now they must make a presentation to the board of directors, who will determine if the students will remain as the management team for the corporation. The presentations will cover: (1) the business strategy their team chose to implement; (2) the results of their work; and (3) their plans for the future if their team is to remain as the managing directors of the company.
ANDREWS CORPORATION
John Djurovski Business Administration Shelby Township, MI Robert Fragoso Sports Management Brighton, MI Jay Gilman Business Management Kalamazoo, MI Steve Stuecher Sports Management Rochester, MI Daniel J. Drwencke (not pictured) Business Management Milwaukee, WI
BALDWIN GROUP
Evan Cowan Accounting Rochester Hills, MI Rachel DePasquale Accounting Clinton Township, MI Christian Eaves Business Management Casco, MI Katie LeComte Marketing/Sports Management Clinton Township, MI Kyle York Accounting Rochester, MI
CHESTER CORPORATION Kathryn Malone Business Management Sylvania, OH Ryan Gailbreath Accounting Sterling Heights, MI Kristen Landenberger Accounting Shelby Township, MI Keith Walters Business Management Rochester Hills, MI
DIGBY CORPORATION Zachary Hillman Business Management Warren, MI Vivian Shelton Business Management Hazel Crest, IL Matt Austin Business Management Taylor, MI Hannah Caullay Sports Management Macomb, MI
ERIE CORPORATION Trevor Wilson Business Management Clarkston, MI Kristian Paich Business Management Belleville, MI Billy Wineland Sports Management/Marketing Swartz Creek, MI Stephen Bone Business Adminisration Westland, MI
Challenging Academics. Ch ristian Commu nity.