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ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM A Celebration of th e Liberal & Professional Arts | April
21, 2015
Welcome to the 2015 Rochester College Academic Symposium
A Celebration of th e Liberal & Professional Arts Welcome to Rochester College’s 12th annual Academic Symposium, where we join together to celebrate our vibrant academic community. We are especially honored to present the academic achievements and capstone projects of 91 Rochester College students. This year’s program boasts a diversity of subject matter and a display of critical thinking as reflected in our students’ scholarly papers, executive simulations, public relations campaigns for real world clients, theatrical performances, and musical recitals. Our Symposium events include four performances of The Taming of the Shrew, one of Shakespeare’s most enduring and endearing comedies. These performances and all of our students’ 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 delighted to welcome Dr. Haja Razafinjatovo, who will deliver our keynote address. Dr. Razafinjatovo’s presentation, entitled “A Professional and Spiritual Journey,” will motivate and inspire our community. He also will be the guest of honor at a luncheon with faculty and students from Rochester College’s Department of Mass Communication. We welcome your participation in this wonderful event, and we congratulate our student scholars for their achievements.
Sincerely,
Brian Stogner, Ph.D. Provost
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academic symposium 2015
Featured Speaker:
Dr. Haja Razafinjato vo Dr. Razafinjatovo is an educator and government leader with extensive experience in effectively designing and implementing reform. After owning his own IT business and serving as IT Systems Manager at the United States Embassy in Antananarivo, Madagascar, Dr. Razafinjatovo served in the Cabinet of President Marc Ravalomanana of the Republic of Madagascar as Minister of Telecommunications (2002-2004), Minister of National Education and Scientific Research (2004-2007), and Minister of Finance and Budget (2007-2009). In these positions, he faced corruption and outdated practices, but his adaptive leadership skills resulted in substantive reform at the national level in finance, education, and telecommunications, including the privatization of the latter. Dr. Razafinjatovo, who holds a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Leadership from Harvard University, was the key partner in developing the Madagascar Presidential Scholars Program in which Malagasy students enrolled at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas, with full funding from the government of Madagascar. During this program, Dr. Razafinjatovo became friends with Dr. John Tyson, who was eager to have his friend Haja speak at the 12th Annual Academic Symposium of Rochester College. After a coup d’etat removed President Ravalomanana from office in March 2009, Dr. Razafinjatovo and his family went into hiding in Madagascar for two years. Through an amazing set of events, they were able to escape to the United States in 2011. In 2012, Dr. Razafinjatovo served as a consultant with the World Bank in Washington, D.C., and in 2013, he published an e-book entitled Reaching Goals: A Practical Guide for Chief Executives and Boards, available through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Currently, he lives in Reston, Virginia, with his wife and three young sons and serves as an adjunct faculty member at George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College, teaching Calculus I and III, Statistics, Linear Algebra, and other math courses.
Program of Events MONDAY, APRIL 20 | RC THEATRE | 7 P.M. ACADEMIC AWARDS CEREMONY & MUSIC DEPARTMENT HONORS RECITAL The Academic Awards Ceremony features academic departments honoring their outstanding students, and the college presents the Distinguished Faculty Award. The Music Department’s Honors Recital is presented in conjunction with the awards ceremony and features the music department’s best students in voice, piano, and other instruments. The music performed ranges from classic to contemporary and is presented by individuals who represent the highest levels of performance ability. A dessert reception hosted by Student Government follows.
TUESDAY, APRIL 21 STUDENT PRESENTATIONS | RC THEATRE | 9 A.M.—5 P.M. For a complete schedule of the student presentations, see the following pages. DR. HAJA RAZAFINJATOVO | RC THEATRE | 10:30—11:15 A.M. ROCHESTER COLLEGE BAND CONCERT | RC THEATRE | 7:30 P.M. The Rochester College Concert Band will perform composer Jerry Bilik’s “Civil War Fantasy” in recognition of the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War. Also included in the program is “Incantation and Dance,” “America the Beautiful,” and the music of Alford and Puccini. The finale will be selections from a symphony titled “Lord of the Rings” that was written fifteen years before the movie trilogy portraying the famous work by J.R.R. Tolkien.
THURSDAY, APRIL 23 | RC THEATRE | 7 :30 P.M. MUSIC DEPARTMENT SENIOR RECITALS: SARAH SNYDER & JANNAH GARBACK At 7:30 p.m., pianist Sarah Snyder presents a recital that includes pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Schubert, and Debussy. At 8 p.m., soprano Jannah Garback presents a voice recital that includes arias by Mozart; songs by Chausson, Debussy, Schumann, Head, and Quilter; and musical theatre excerpts by Hamlisch, Sondheim, and Lloyd-Webber.
FRIDAY, APRIL 24 | RC THEATRE | 7:30 P.M. THE TAMING OF THE SHREW BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Rochester College Theatre Department presents a special production of Shakespeare’s immortal comedy The Taming of the Shrew, perhaps the most popular incarnation of the notorious battle of the sexes. It is a tale of true love and the clashes that such love often begets. This modern, zany, energetic, abridged production mirrors Shakespeare’s originally intended performance style and features Rochester College’s ensemble acting class as it takes on multiple roles and remains onstage throughout the entire show. Performances will also be held on Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
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TUESDAY, APRIL 21
Concurrent Session A: 9-10:15 a.m.
Business 1— Auditorium East Best Buy: Maria Banou, Kaylee DeAnn Khoshaba, Nicholas A. Fredric Mikeska, Nicholas V. Rossetti, Brooke Watts Nursing – Auditorium West Kara Bonk, Michael Patrico, Christina Rastelli, Emily Serrano, Jessica Tingey: A Comparative Analysis of Nurses’ Perceptions of Massage Therapy for Oncology Patients Psychology 1 – Ham Library 115 Rayenne Kaiser: Effects of Music on Memory Scott Lloyd: Substance Use and Cognitive Ability: Are Smarter People More Likely to Use Drugs? Interdisciplinary Studies 1 – Gold Room Brittany Alexander: Physical and Psychological Consequences of Being a Student Athlete Katrina Enciso: Rabies: A Scientific Analysis and Social Overview Public Relations 1 – Ham Library 112 Kaylee Anderson: Public Relations for On the Avenue Salon Lindsay Baslock: Public Relations Plan for Larry Hamilton Golf Elementary Mathematics Education – Richardson Center 117 Kayla Brewer: Dyscalculia: What Is It and How Can Teachers Effectively Teach to It? Felicia Hamel: Learning Styles in the Mathematics Classroom
Plenary Session: 10:30-11:15 a.m. Dr. Haja Razafinjatovo RC Theatre
Special Session: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Department of Mass Communication Luncheon Administration and Mass Communication Faculty and Students with Dr. Razafinjatovo Center Auditorium
Concurrent Session B: 12:45-2 p.m.
Business 2 — Auditorium East Buffalo Wild Wings: Kelly Peper, Angela Stabel, Alex Storm, Evan Walker, Josie Wiltse Nursing 2 – Auditorium West Tina Brockway, Ashley Delaney, Toyika Heard-Milliner, Annalise O’Meara, Victoria Schoenherr, Sharilynn Sweet: Mirror Therapy as Treatment for Phantom Limb Pain Psychology 2 – Ham Library 115 Max Stratton: Psychological Differences between Communities of Different Socioeconomics Troy Wilkinson: The Effects of Training Methods on Experienced Stress When Performing a Mental Rotation Task Interdisciplinary Studies 2 – Gold Room Chris Forystek: The 2000 Presidential Election Ethan West: The President’s War Powers Public Relations 2 – Ham Library 112 Sara Beason: Mitch Carr Photograhpy Joshlyn Marie Booth: Public Relations with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
English 1 – Richardson Center 117 Christian Carlisle: To the Concrete Jungle Natalie Redmond: Critiquing the Critics: Shortcomings In and the Importance of Western Feminism Theatre 1 – Ham Library 113 Danii Diehl: My Journey as an Actor/Performer . . . So Far Sarah Snyder: My Journey of Theatre Design and Management
Concurrent Session C: 2:15-3:30
Business 3 — Auditorium East Microsoft: Joseph Paul Beshara, Nicolae Crisan, Justin Kane, Daniel Seargeant, Brandi West Nursing 3 – Auditorium West Dalina Brikho, Joesina Manalel, Daun Pensavecchia, Heather Sharrak: Effect of Napping on Nurse Fatigue Levels Psychology 3 – Ham Library 115 Taylor McKenna: Facebook Persona: How We Perceive Ourselves and How They See Us Emily Sherwin: “Trusting Your Gut”: A Demographical Comparison of Intuitive Processing Interdisciplinary Studies 3 – Gold Room Emily Guirey: The War in the Brazilian Amazon: A Synopsis of the Implications of Deforestation from Economic, Sociological, and Global Environmental Perspectives Timothy Langer: Galileo and the Conflict Thesis Public Relations 3 – Ham Library 112 Bradley Fecteau: Public Relations for Indie Musician, Poor Richard’s Almanac Nicholas Simonis: Public Relations Campaign for Shield Media English 2 – Richardson Center 117 Jonathan Fulton: To Boldly Go: Exploring Comic Book and Fan Fiction Writing Through “Star Trek: The Tragedy of Khitomer” Philip Powell: Riding the Wave: The Meanings of Violence, Capitalism, and Paranoia in the Work of Hunter S. Thompson
Concurrent Session D: 3:45-5 p.m.
Business 4 — Auditorium East Under Armour: Ryan Balazy, Travis Early, Jason Martens, Luke Strobl, Nick Tomilenko Nursing 4 – Auditorium West Cynthia Adamek, Stephanie Ochoa, Alyson Pinelli, Yvonne Kassab Tamou, Erika Wasson: Assessment of Neonatal Nurses’ Understanding of the Finnegan’s Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Tool Psychology 4 – Ham Library 115 Kari Burton: Do You Hear What I Hear?: Handedness, Gender, and Ear Dominance in Dichotic Listening Heather Reinke: Mental Health and Martial Arts: Effects of Self-Efficacy Interdisciplinary Studies 4 – Gold Room Moni Musial: Special Topics in International Studies: Transformational Development Sarah Snyder: The Designing of Theatre Production Lighting and Sound Secondary Mathematics Education – Richardson Center 117 Holly Hemmings: A Grade-to-Grade Progression of Algebraic Reasoning Scott Kunert: Non-traditional Assessments in the Secondary Math Classroom Social Work 1 – Ham Library 112 Andrew Cave, Meryl Cunningham, Patsy Hayter, Rachel Miller, Brittney Mosley, Brett Reister, Caleb Stinnett, Amy Whaley: Social Work Practicum Reports Biblical Studies 2 – Ham Library 113 Roger Santini: Imperfectly Loved Crystal Thomas: The Road Less Traveled
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Student Abstracts Brittany Alexander Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: General Science and Psychology Hometown: Waterford, MI Physical and Psychological Consequences of Being a Student Athlete Many students consider themselves student athletes through high school and, to varying degrees, through college. Participation in competitive athletics at the high school and collegiate levels can have significant, lingering effects during and even into the post collegiate years of adult life. This presentation examines the possible physical and psychological consequences of being a student athlete, both while participating and post participation. Areas examined include differences between the consequences of athletic participation in high school versus college and dealing with chronic pain, time management, social interactions, and academic consequences. While the young body and mind prove to be very resilient, this research explores how being a student athlete can have potential short- and long-term consequences nonetheless. The objective in researching this topic is to inform student athletes who are at the beginning of their careers or just starting to learn their sport. While there appears no way to avoid some of these consequences, student athletes must be aware of the changes that their minds and bodies are experiencing in order to live with a realistic perspective and sound judgment rather than with indifference or fear. Mentor: Dr. Michael Muhitch Kayla Brewer Major: Elementary Mathematics Education Hometown: Pontiac, MI Dyscalculia: What Is It and How Can Teachers Effectively Teach to It? Mathematics has always been one of the more difficult subjects for students to learn and comprehend. Since math can be difficult for “regular” students, students with learning disabilities struggle even more with math. Some learning disabilities pertain only to understanding mathematics and numeracy. This presentation defines dyscalculia, a learning disability that has been overlooked by society and teachers alike. Just as students with dyslexia are taught differently and approach learning differently, dyscalculic students also need to be taught differently. This presentation explains some of its warning signs and how common it is among children. It also explores different strategies to use when teaching students with dyscalculia, and these strategies will be examined and rated by their effectiveness. The presentation will answer several research questions: how is dyscalculia diagnosed, what teaching strategies for students with dyscalculia have been employed, how effective are those teaching strategies, and are there any ineffective teaching strategies that have been tried with students with dyscalculia? This study is significant because it will give dyscalculic students a greater opportunity to excel in academics and even in everyday life. The goal for all children with learning disabilities is that they will be able to work independently and have the desire to learn. Mentor: Dr. David Brackney Joseph Eugene Brissette Major: Biblical Studies Hometown: Mt. Morris, MI Addressing the Sins of “Brothers”: A Pauline Ecclesiological Approach to Dealing with Sin within the Church Body What should the church family do when one of their own is living in sin? The goal of this presentation is to answer this question in a way that is relevant to the Church today. Citing the writings of the apostle Paul, this presentation will address such topics as the difference between judging those outside the Church and those on the inside; the purpose of addressing sinfulness and immorality in the Church; what to do when there is disagreement over what is sinful and what is not; and when addressing the sins of fellow Christians moves into the realm of sinfulness. This presentation will also address Biblical concepts that are challenging to us in the 21st century, facing them head on, rather than avoiding the challenges they pose. This study will be both challenging and informative and will hopefully provide some answers to difficult issues that Christians deal with in the world today. Mentors: Dr. Craig Bowman and Dr. Mark Love
Kari Burton Major: Psychology Hometown: Brown City, MI Do You Hear What I Hear? Handedness, Gender, and Ear Dominance in Dichotic Listening A number of factors are indicative of brain asymmetry. A well-known asymmetrical process in the brain is language, which is processed primarily in the left cerebral hemisphere. Handedness is related to the asymmetric nature of the brain, and studies indicate that handedness determines the dominant ear in listening and the hemisphere in which language is processed. Gender is another aspect in the processing of information between the hemispheres. Biological differences in females and males, such as corpus callosum size and hemispheric specialization, affect language processing. This study examines the relationship between handedness, gender, and ear dominance in a dichotic listening test. It is hypothesized that females’ handedness will indicate the dominant ear used in the dichotic listening test, whereas the males’ dominant ear in the dichotic listening test will be the right ear with no regard to handedness. Fifty-four students from Rochester College participated in this study. The participants were asked to fill out the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory (short form), in addition to participating in Russell Schuh’s Dichotic Listening Test (Schuh, 2014). A chi-square goodness of fit test suggested a significant relationship in ear dominance between right-handed males, non-right handed males, right-handed females, and non-right handed females. A cross tabulation did not reveal any significant relationship between gender and ear dominance or handedness and ear dominance. The hypothesis was not supported, but other significant relationships were revealed. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson Christian Carlisle Major: English Hometown: Detroit, MI To the Concrete Jungle To the Concrete Jungle is an original play written by Christian about Fred and Julie, a brother and sister who leave their home in Nebraska to move in with their Aunt in New York City. As Fred’s big sister, Julie is overprotective of him and overbearing at times, but she wants what’s best for the two of them. In contrast to the serious demeanor of Julie, Fred exhibits a carefree mentality. He wants to experience everything he can during his lifetime. However, he is fifteen and hasn’t found out who he is. Throughout the story the two of them deal with turmoil and learn many different things about themselves and each other. They are often tested in unique ways to eventually become the people that they want to be. Mentor: Professor Zac Watson
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Danii Diehl Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Theatre and International Studies Hometown: Lapeer, MI My Journey as an Actor/Performer . . . So Far These past four years have been a journey that has taken me to extraordinary places in the world and through the theatre. Through an internship with a professional theatre company and a semester abroad, Rochester College has provided me with professors, directors, advisors, and experiences that have opened my eyes to the endless possibilities the theatre and the world can provide to further me as an artist and as a person. My learning in the theatre has both broadened my self-awareness and strengthened my confidence in who I am and what I can do. Before college I had always been aware that I loved to sing, and although the college offered me wonderful experiences with music, such as chorus and Autumn, the singing alone was not filling me fully. After my first role in the musical Jesus Christ Superstar as “Mary Magdalene,” I was captivated and found a new passion. From there I found that I enjoy acting in a Shakespeare or modern play just as much as singing and dancing in a musical. My most thrilling self-discovery has been that I have a talent for stage combat. Nothing makes me feel more alive on stage than when I am given a weapon and challenging someone to a fight. In the near future, I intend to broaden my stage experience and abilities as an actor, dancer, singer, and fighter by joining training facilities and taking every opportunity that presents itself to be on the stage and, ideally, travel the world. As part of my work for this semester in Senior Seminar, I have researched and contacted various professional companies in these specific areas of interest. I have prepared résumés, cover letters, and a portfolio to assist me in achieving acceptance into these programs. With the guidance and critiques of professors and advisors, I have also prepared monologues and songs to present in future auditions. Through my experiences in the classroom, on stage, and overseas, I have discovered a new Danii that I am proud of and excited and eager to explore and push further. Mentor: Dr. Catherine Parker Katrina Enciso Major: Health Science Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Rabies: A Scientific Analysis and Social Overview Rabies, the word alone both terrifies and fascinates us. For hundreds of years this disease has plagued humanity with the earliest records of it reaching as far back as 2000 B.C. Society has reacted to rabies in fascinating ways throughout history. People have tried to study, cure, avoid, and weaponize rabies. While we have tried to leave our mark on this disease, it was also leaving its mark on us. Folklore and mythology have also been greatly impacted by the mystery and symptoms of rabies. In modern times, the advancement of scientific discovery and treatment has changed the way society looks at infectious diseases. Through the discovery that the causative agent of rabies is a virus, scientists were able to develop the first viable vaccines for rabies. Understanding the symptoms, transmission, incubation, mortality, and diagnosis behind such a deadly disease has changed the way rabies is viewed today. To date, much research and many advancements have been made into the prevention and treatment of rabies. Nevertheless, this disease still remains a huge problem for the modern world and is especially problematic in the developing world. Mentor: Dr. Michael Muhitch Christopher Forystek Major: Interdisciplinary Studies Hometown: Mt. Morris, MI The 2000 Presidential Election This presentation will review and analyze both the political and legal aspects of the 2000 presidential election. It will include a brief review of the Electoral College and how it works, in particular the controversial Florida vote, and it will analyze several Florida Supreme Court opinions and the U.S. Supreme Court case of Bush vs. Gore, which decided the question of who was elected President of the United States in 2000. Mentor: Dr. John Todd
Jonathan A. Fulton Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Business and English Hometown: Columbia City, IN To Boldly Go: Exploring Comic Book and Fan Fiction Writing Through “Star Trek: The Tragedy of Khitomer” In the Emmy award-winning television series Star Trek: The Next Generation, audiences are introduced to the dynamic Klingon character of Worf, an orphaned child from an alien race that values honor above all else. It is revealed throughout the series that as a child, Worf and his nurse are the sole survivors of “The Khitomer Massacre,” an attack that claimed the lives of 4,000 innocent Klingon colonists. However, audiences are left to speculate about the details surrounding the tragedy and the subsequent events that shape Worf’s future and the fate of the Klingon Empire. This presentation examines the events of this infamous attack as they have been pieced together in the style of comic book writing as an original fan fiction work entitled Star Trek: The Tragedy of Khitomer. Additionally, the presentation explores the process of creating work of this genre in an effort to validate fan fiction and comic book writing among other forms of (perhaps more highly regarded) literary work. Mentor: Professor Zac Watson Emily Guirey Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: General Science and Psychology Hometown: Berkley, MI The War in the Brazilian Amazon: A Synopsis of the Implications of Deforestation from Economic, Sociological, and Global Environmental Perspectives The Brazilian Amazon rainforest is home to one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the world. Arguably the most ever-present threat to the biological nature of the Amazon and its inhabitants is deforestation. Deforestation is a process that entails the clearing of biomes by humans for economic or social gains, such as human settlement and agricultural cultivation. Deforestation is a process that has a multitude of various advantages from economic and sociological perspectives. Contrastingly, however, deforestation is a process that degrades the overall biodiversity of the Amazon and subsequently yields to global ecosystem implications. This presentation explores the economic benefits and advantages of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon in addition to the negative implications. The concept of deforestation is one that is often overlooked in our industrial society due to the fact that a vast majority of humanity does not view the world from an environmentalist’s perspective. This research explores how the deforestation affects us and why we should care about it. The presentation also explores alternate routes to the benefits of deforestation. Mentor: Dr. David Brackney Felicia Hamel Major: Elementary Mathematics Education Hometown: New Boston, MI Learning Styles in the Mathematics Classroom Howard Gardner has identified eight different types of learners. Each of these eight styles of learning can be found in every classroom. The struggle for many teachers is reaching each of these different types of learners in the classroom. It is a teacher’s responsibility to ensure that each child is reaching his or her full potential; to do so, teachers need to differentiate instruction so that all learning styles are being reached. Teachers should be looking at their students’ key behaviors to identify which types of learning styles are present in the classroom. Furthermore, not only should teachers design math lesson plans that reach as many learners as possible, they should also be aware of their own potential biases in teaching strategy when designing and implementing instruction. In grades K-8, the mathematics classroom can be challenging, especially for students with some learning styles; therefore, it is essential that the teacher differentiates instruction and attempts to reach as many of the students as possible in every lesson. Mentor: Dr. David Brackney
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Holly Hemmings Major: Secondary Mathematics Education Hometown: San Diego, CA A Grade-to-Grade Progression of Algebraic Reasoning Algebraic reasoning involves the cognitive ability to form generalizations and describe and analyze relationships between multiple representations of mathematical situations. Algebra is a difficult concept for students to understand and master because of its abstract nature. It has historically been taught through the rote memorization of rules and formulas, a strategy that does not promote higher-order thinking and reasoning skills in learners. The Common Core State Standards for Mathematics aims at developing deeper student understanding of algebraic concepts through a grade-to-grade progression of algebraic reasoning spanning from elementary to high school. This continual progression of algebraic reasoning in the mathematics curriculum can be developed with activities specifically designed to initiate higher-order thinking skills in students using real-world applications at each grade level. At the elementary level, teachers can promote algebraic reasoning through the use of literature, technology, hands-on experience, and questioning techniques. To further promote the development of algebraic thinking and reasoning in middle school grades, strategies can include the following: (1) promote students’ higher-order thinking skills through questioning techniques; (2) conduct “think-alouds” during whole class discussions; (3) integrate technology into the classroom; (4) activate students’ prior knowledge of the subject; and (5) provide numerous hands-on opportunities for students to apply their knowledge. Finally, teachers at the high school level can make algebra meaningful through incorporating technology, using problem-solving situations, and implementing teacher questioning. Developing a strong foundational knowledge of algebraic reasoning and building on students’ knowledge is crucial for their success in higher level mathematics. Mentor: Dr. David Brackney Rayenne Kaiser Major: Psychology Hometown: Lapeer, MI Effects of Music on Memory This research project focuses on music and memory recall. It will help determine if music helps with memory. Previous studies show that music does have a positive effect on memory. One specific study was done with patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The patients were able to remember more when the lyrics were sung due to their enhanced musical encoding, whereas healthy patients do not have enhanced musical encoding and could not recall the lyrics as well. It was hypothesized that students would score higher on a paired-associates test while listening to music that they do not prefer and that students would score lower on a paired-associates test while listening to music that they do prefer. It was also hypothesized that students would score the highest taking a paired-associates test with no music at all. Overall, students who have a higher focusing ability, based on their EEG reading, will score higher on any test that they take compared to those with a lower focusing ability. During the data-gathering phase of the research, students were brought into a room one by one and given an EEG reading test to measure their focusing ability. Before they took the paired-associates test, they were asked to listen to four different songs, each from a different genre. Three different groups were tested: A group that listened to their favorite musical preference, a group that listened to their least favorite, and a group that listened to no music at all. According to what group individuals were in, they proceeded to take the paired-associates test with the music playing from the computer they were taking it on. After all 45 students were tested, the scores were conducted and computed into the SPSS database to determine the significant differences between each of the groups and whether the hypotheses were correct. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson
Sean Kick Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI The Xenophobia of the Modern Church In this study, I discuss the current climate of the modern Christian church regarding acceptance of those who live according to standards foreign to “typical” churchgoers. As Christians, we are called to make disciples of all nations, regardless of background, but how does this translate culturally on a realistic level? By means of interviewing people, both Christian and non-Christian alike, who live “alternative” lifestyles, I propose a more well-rounded understanding of the treatment and acceptance of outsiders of the alternative community in today’s church. With the information gathered from these interviews, I will reflect, particularly, on passages from the Bible, where this same contrast was experienced and processed among early Christian Jewish and Gentile converts. From the principles proposed in several biblical texts, I draw understanding and perspective on what is at stake due to the way we currently exclude those unlike “us,” the majority already within—the classic insider-outsider conflict applied to our modern American cultural context. I also suggest how the church can relax this tension by laying a new foundation from which those with alternative lifestyles can be more kindly received and accepted. By doing so, I believe a stronger method of discipleship can be implemented that reaches those of all walks of life, without restriction or discrimination. Mentors: Dr. Craig Bowman and Dr. Mark Love Scott Kunert Major: Secondary Mathematics Education Hometown: Clinton Township, MI Non-traditional Assessments in the Secondary Math Classroom Traditional assessments test student knowledge through pencil and paper-based assignments. Nontraditional assessments stray from the traditional multiple choice, true/false, and matching tests and focus on methods used to track higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills in students. While traditional pencil and paper-based tests are effective at assessing reading comprehension skills, nontraditional assessments require the students to create and construct responses rather than practice memorization skills. This presentation explores the different types of non-traditional assessments as well as the advantages and disadvantages of both traditional and non-traditional testing. The presentation also examines the effectiveness of non-traditional assessment methods on evaluating student knowledge and signifying student achievement as compared to pencil and paper-based testing. Finally, the effect of non-traditional testing on the teacher is examined. About his project Scott says, “I have chosen this topic in hopes that my research, findings, and conclusions will help me to foster a better environment of learning and success in my future classroom.” Mentor: Dr. David Brackney Timothy Langer Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Science and History Hometown: Warren, MI Galileo and the Conflict Thesis Galileo is a figure we hear about when we study science. He is the preeminent example of a scientist, an astronomer whose findings contradicted the religious teachings of the day, and as a result, he was taken before the Inquisition to be punished and forced to recant by religious authorities who dogmatically refused to believe the earth was not the center of the universe in spite of his offer of scientific evidence. That’s the story we’re told in science. We see it in science textbooks and science journals: Galileo is the golden boy, and his story is the centerpiece of an entire metanarrative about the advancement of science in the face of dogmatic religious superstition. That is how the story goes, but certain scholars have cast that story into doubt. Is it really true? Is the preeminent capstone of the science versus religion edifice built upon historical myth and misapprehension? This study examines the complex relationships and interaction between Galileo and the Church, including key figures in the decision-making process for the Church and its position on the Copernican theory, as well as the scientific discourse of the time with an eye toward the question of to what extent religious factors were ultimately a determinant in the Church’s rejection of Heliocentrism. Various metanarratives surrounding Galileo’s trial and subsequent house arrest are also discussed. Mentor: Dr. David Brackney
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academic symposium 2015
Scott Lloyd Major: Psychology Hometown: Royal Oak, MI Substance Use and Cognitive Ability: Are Smarter People More Likely to Use Drugs? Are intelligent individuals more or less likely to indulge in the consumption of mind-altering substances? With ample evidence from the field of cognitive epidemiology showing that more individuals live longer and stay healthier, how can the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, which is universally accepted to be detrimental to health, be pursued by more intelligent individuals? Seemingly paradoxically, research on the correlation between substance use and cognitive ability or intelligence suggests that because drug use is considered a novel experience, individuals with higher intelligence are more likely to participate in the consumption of drugs and alcohol. The Savanna-IQ Interaction Hypothesis suggests that highly intelligent individuals are more likely to acquire and espouse evolutionarily novel values than less intelligent individuals. It thus follows that because the consumption of drugs is indeed evolutionarily novel, intelligent individuals are more likely to consume them. To test this hypothesis, the present study utilized the Shipley Institute of Living Scale verbal subtest to measure crystallized cognitive levels, along with the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Use Involvement Screening Test V3.0 (ASSIST V3.0) to measure patterns of substance involvement. Sixty subjects from the Midwestern United States between the ages of eighteen and forty were surveyed to evaluate the subjects’ level of exposure to and consumption of tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine, inhalants, sedatives, hallucinogens, and opioids. The ASSIST V3.0 was studied and reported on by the World Health Organization in 2006 and was determined to have good concurrent, construct, predictive, and discriminative validity. To test for the hypothesis that individuals with higher intelligence are more likely to use drugs, a simple Pearson correlation test was first employed to test the strength of the correlation between the Shipley test scores and the Total Drug Use scores, revealing a significant correlation. Next, a Pearson correlation test was conducted to test the strength of the correlation within each pool, Midwestern university students and local restaurant employees. The results suggested support for Kanazawa’s and Wilmoth’s theory that individuals with higher IQ’s may be more often drawn to novel experiences in the form of consuming mind-altering substances. By identifying those most likely to try recreational drugs, results from this study could be practically applied by government agencies in their efforts to prevent substance abuse. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson Taylor McKenna Major: Psychology Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Facebook Persona: How We Perceive Ourselves and How They See Us The purpose of this study is to analyze the discrepancies between the self-perceived traits and stereotypes of an individual and the judgments of those same characteristics by a non-involved third party through the medium of Facebook. The participants were divided into two asymmetrical groups, the smaller group being those who had their Facebook profiles analyzed. The second group observed screen shots of those being observed. Both groups filled out the same four measures. The first was a standard demographics questionnaire. The second scale evaluated the perceived traits, and the third scale analyzed typical stereotypes. The final scale was an idealism scale, which measured the ideal characteristics for all parties involved. The subjective results of the study conclude that the variance between the observations of the subject and the observer changed from subject to subject. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson
Moni Musial Major: Interdisciplinary Studies Hometown: Troy, MI Special Topics in International Studies: Transformational Development How we define poverty and how we “do” development matters, affecting both the poor and non-poor and relationships within households, within communities, with God, and with the rest of creation. This presentation integrates academic readings and personal experiences with one nongovernmental organization based in Uganda, Kibo Group International, to discuss transformational development and how to assess development efforts. Ultimately, this presentation addresses two questions: What is next for Kibo Group International, and how will Kibo Group continue to live into their mission “to encourage healthy transformation of communities, resulting in donors, staff and society growing closer to God”? (www.kibogroup.org ) Mentor: Professor Danette Cagnet Philip Demond Powell Major: Mass Communication/Journalism Hometown: Flint, MI Riding the Wave: The Meanings of Violence, Capitalism, and Paranoia in the Work of Hunter S. Thompson Hunter S. Thompson is considered by many to be one of the best writers of the twenty-first century. Over his career, Thompson wrote seventeen novels and hundreds of essays, published in publications such as Rolling Stone, ESPN, and Playboy. Throughout his long career, Thompson covered such topics as the 1972 Presidential Election, Puerto Rico in the 1950s, The Kentucky Derby, and Thompson’s drug-fueled trip to Las Vegas in 1971. Because of Thompson’s lifelong substance abuse issues, a topic heavily referenced in his work, some critics have dismissed Thompson’s writing as merely being the funny ramblings of a drug addict. However, is this truly all Thompson’s work has to offer? Is there more to the eccentric writer than meets the eye? This presentation explores and answers these questions through a deep analysis of Thompson’s work based on some of major themes, including the role and meaning of violence in society, Thompson’s critiques of capitalism, and the author’s internal war between idealism and cynicism. Works analyzed are Thompson’s novels The Rum Diary and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and two of his essays, “Fear and Loathing at the Superbowl” and “The Kentucky Derby is Decadent and Depraved.” Mentor: Professor Zac Watson Natalie Redmond Majors: English and Theatre Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Critiquing the Critics: Shortcomings in and the Importance of Western Feminism Throughout Western history, women’s roles have been hotly debated. From the value of their artwork to their standing in society, women have long grappled to defend their personhood and worth within historically patriarchal cultures. From Mary Wollstonecraft’s early claims regarding the value of women in A Vindication of the Rights of Woman to Virginia Woolf’s fight for women’s artistic freedom in A Room of One’s Own to Alice Walker’s reassertion of Black female empowerment in In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens, literature has powerfully shaped feminist thought. Through an exploration of key texts of feminist literature, this project endeavors to examine some of the common criticisms of feminism—including racism, aestheticism, and classism—that have recurred throughout Western history. Furthermore, despite significant progress made by receding feminist movements in bridging social and economic gaps between women and men, problems remain within the movement itself. Particularly, this project critiques the narrowness of a feminist movement that has often excluded women of color from the conversation. Ultimately, through tracing the development of feminist literature and critiquing both critics of the movement and the movement itself, this study seeks to suggest an inclusive direction for the future of Western feminism based upon the foundation established by literary voices. Mentor: Dr. Beth VanRheenen
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Heather B. Reinke Major: Psychology Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Mental Health and Martial Arts: Effects of Self-Efficacy The goal of this study is to examine the effects of Martial Arts (MA) on general self-efficacy (SE) and anxiety. A study conducted by Cervone, Smith, and Weitlauf (1989) revealed that self-defense classes resulted in women reporting increased domain-specific efficacy (self-defense efficacy), as well as increased general self-efficacy and assertiveness. In a six-month follow up, the research team also found a significant decrease in hostility and physical aggression. Ball and Martin (2011) observed the effects of Traditional Martial Arts Training versus Modern Self-defense Training on multidimensional fears in women, revealing an increase in domain-specific self-efficacy and a reduction in the dimension of “life threatening” fear. Interestingly, prior research has revolved mainly around women and self-defense training. The current study examines effects of MA training on both genders as well as the effects of the extent of MA training. To determine these effects, each participant completed a background questionnaire relating to current and prior Martial Arts training as well as involvement in other sports that may influence self-efficacy. Participants were grouped according to how long they have been practicing their art. A control group was drawn from the participants who are not currently, nor have been, involved in any MA training in the past 2 years. The General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), the SelfEfficacy Scale (SES), and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) were completed. The GSE (Schwarzer, 1992) and SES (Sherer, 1982) each measure different aspects of perceived competency and belief in one’s ability to respond to novel or difficult situations. It is expected that, similar to Self-defense Training, MA training will reduce anxiety as well as increase self-efficacy among men and women due to the nature of training (modeling) and the concepts taught within the training (problem-solving and discipline). It is expected that the longer an individual has been involved in MA the higher his or her self-efficacy scores will be. This study, approved by the IRB, includes 26 participants from three gyms in the area and 26 participants from a small Midwestern college. A factorial ANOVA was used to determine the level of self-efficacy and anxiety as it relates to duration of time spent in training. This study examines MA from a new perspective looking beyond just the physical benefits into the mental training practitioners undergo and how it affects their self-efficacy and anxiety. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson Roger Santini Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Chesterfield, MI Imperfectly Loved Supporting Scriptures: John 3:16, 1 Corinthians 13:1-8, John 18:15-18 and 25-27 The relationship between Simon Peter and Jesus Christ is a tumultuous one. All throughout Scripture Peter fluctuates between showing unshakable, loving faith in Jesus and revealing his lack of trust in the Son of God. John 21:15-19 seems to be a scene of final reconciliation between this broken sinner and a loving, forgiving God. Read in the English language, this Scripture seems to reveal the depth of Peter’s renewed dedication and devotion to his Lord following his denunciation of Jesus during the crucifixion. However, when this text is read in its original Greek form, a different picture is revealed. In Greek, Peter’s answer to Jesus’s question “Do you love me?” is no longer read as a resounding “Yes.” Peter’s answer is, “Yes, I phileo you.” The trouble is that Jesus did not ask Peter “Do you phileo me?” Rather, he asked, “Do you agape me?” This discrepancy in language reveals a difference between the human love that Peter is trying to express and the divine love that Jesus continually pours out throughout Scripture. This major shift transforms this text from a seemingly simple Sunday school story to a Scripture that is incredibly more challenging. Now we do not see a fully repentant Peter who is ready to devote himself completely to Jesus. What we see is a human Peter, a man who is trying to love Jesus with all his heart but is still struggling with his shame, his guilt, and his human nature. Now we see a picture of imperfect human love. However, despite the complications presented by this reading of the text, this Scripture teaches us even more about love because it brings to light the stark difference between human love and divine love. Now we can hear what Jesus is teaching us when he tells Peter, “Feed my sheep.” John 21:1519 is a message about the divine verb that is “love.” Mentors: Dr. Craig Bowman and Dr. Mark Love
Emily Sherwin Major: Psychology Hometown: Madison Heights, MI “Trusting Your Gut”: A Demographical Comparison of Intuitive Processing Bolte and Goschke (2005) assumed judgments are not consciously retrieved. They found that intuitive processes are fast, automatic, implicit, and effortless. The understanding of these intuitive processes is unclear (Bolte & Goschke, 2005). This study explores the demographical differences in types of intuition. Three types of intuition exist: inferential, holistic, and affective. Jung describes intuition as “an unconscious, primary mode of perception” (Pretz, et al., 2014). Affective intuition is defined as making responses utilizing emotions. Inferential intuition is an automated and analytical process not requiring concentration. Holistic intuition is not intellectual, and it looks at situations as a whole. Holistic intuition is unconscious and unknowingly gives us information (Carlson, 2008). It is hypothesized that there are gender differences in intuition. Eisenberg, et al. (1989) found that women showed more facial expressions with emotion than men. Women have also been found to be more concerned with feelings than ideas (Costa, et al., 2001). An explanation of increased “women’s intuition” is that women are in a subordinate role, and they learn to be aware of feelings and thoughts of their superiors (Snodgrass, 1985). Schmitt, et al. (2008) found males to be more open to ideas than women. Epstein, et al. (1996) found males to be more rational thinkers than females. It is therefore hypothesized that females will respond with affective intuition rather than holistic and inferential intuition. It is also hypothesized that males will more often respond with holistic intuition since it is strongly associated with openness to experience (Pretz, et al., 2014). A two-way contingency table analysis was used to evaluate gender differences in holistic, inferential, and affective intuition. Significant interactions between gender and intuition were examined. It was expected that females will interact with affective intuition significantly and males will interact with holistic intuition. This would support the theory by Costa, et al. (2001) that women are more concerned with feelings as well as the theory by Schmitt, et al. (2008) that males are more open to new ideas and experience. The results of this study could facilitate exploration into other personality differences between the types of intuitions. Gender and intuition were found to be significantly correlated. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson Sarah Snyder Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Theatre and Music Hometown: Romeo, MI My Journey of Theatre Design and Management Over the years in the Rochester College Theatre Department, I learned ideas and concepts that changed and influenced the way I design various aspects of theatre productions. After collecting many artifacts from various projects from all five years of school, I see a wonderful path of growth not only through my classes, but also in my practical designs and various independent and professional jobs I received through connections with outside theatre companies. I also compared and contrasted multiple projects and designs I completed in the first few years of school, met with faculty members for advice on improving the concepts and designs, and reflected back on my own notes and growth through the process. I not only designed through the last few years, but I was also involved in building production sets, fundraising, service projects, and management. As part of this semester’s work, I researched and contacted professional theatre companies and graduate programs of interest to me. I then prepared a résumé and cover letters to assist me in achieving acceptance into the programs and companies. I grew as a person through the journey of every production and class and discovered incredible character and personality traits that I did not know I have. Mentor: Dr. Catherine Parker
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Sarah Snyder Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Theatre and Music Hometown: Romeo, MI The Designing of Theatre Production Lighting and Sound In my last four months in the Rochester College Theatre Department, I was assigned the position of lighting designer and sound designer for two Theatre Department productions, Eleemosynary and The Butler Did It. As the designer of both lighting and sound for both productions, I needed to meet with the directors, find inspirational photographs, complete paperwork, attend production meetings, and fulfill many other duties. I executed the designs, programming and editing all cues to match the specifications and ideas of the directors. In regard to production lighting, I coordinated lighting crews to ensure the lighting instruments were hung on time and in correct locations, as well as trained some of the theatre technicians to operate lighting equipment safely and efficiently. In regard to sound designing, I looked for sound files fitting the directorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; concepts, trained theatre technicians to operate the sound equipment and computers, and wrote or edited specialized sound files to satisfy director specifications and requirements. In addition, I trained other students interested in learning lighting and sound design, providing suggestions and samples of required paperwork, allowing them to participate in the designing process, and showing them how to design and execute a directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production concept of lighting or sound. Mentor: Dr. Catherine Parker Maxwell Stratton Major: Psychology Hometown: Garden City, MI Psychological Differences between Communities of Different Socioeconomics This presentation presents the results of a study conducted to examine the differences between personality traits of individuals from two different demographic areas. The study focused primarily on personality traits such as extroversion, neuroticism, openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness. The 40-Item Mini-Market Set, as presented by Gerard Saucier, was completed by 57 participants to measure individual personality. Secondly, a self-created survey was presented to participants regarding the age, gender, personal beliefs, and demographic information of each individual. Once the data was recorded, participants were placed into either Group 1 (Oakland County) or Group 2 (Wayne County), based on the geographic location in which they had spent the majority of their lives. Socioeconomic differences between the geographic locations were obtained from the United States Census Bureau (20082012). Independent samples t-tests were utilized to make comparisons between the personality traits of the two groups, as well as the personal beliefs of participants regarding economic stability. Results indicated that Group 2 (M=53.22, SD=9.06) recorded extroversion scores significantly higher than Group 1 (M=48.19, SD=9.69); t(55)=-2.02, p=.002. It was also found that Group 1 (M=97.85, SD=49.43) reported a significantly higher figure than Group 2 (M=56.00, SD= 16.42) regarding the annual income needed to be obtained by a single individual in order to be considered economically stable; t(55)=4.32, p< .001. A cross-tabulation was created, showing a greater percentage of households was led by married parents within Group 1 compared to Group 2; x2=6.349, p=.012. Results suggested that individuals brought up in married households have higher levels of family education, household income, belief of economic stability, and conscientiousness. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson
Crystal Thomas Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Flint, MI The Road Less Traveled This presentation is a reflection on an unexpected moment of insight into my calling and appointment as the senior pastor of the Linden United Methodist Church. Being appointed to this position presents inherent challenges for me in addition to being a change of leadership for the congregation. As an African American woman minister, I represent diversity, youth, and female clergy in this transition, which has deeply challenged me and my church members. Being new to the area, I was recently extended a grace experience by a woman who volunteered to take me to visit the sick and shut in. This opened a door for the two of us to look in our pasts and realize together that we share a very uncommon life circumstance. In our childhood years, we were both “wards of the state.” Generally speaking a “ward of the state” is a person of any age needing various types of legal protection for reasons such as abandonment or threatening conditions at home or elsewhere. In my seeking to understand the significance of this unanticipated encounter with a woman so much older and so different than I, though now mutually connected as former “wards of the state,” I was reminded of John 9:2-3: “As he walked along, Jesus saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered, ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him’” (NRSV). In this presentation, I explore the importance of these verses for understanding the newly discovered meaning of my former status as a “ward of the state” and now one called to ministry. These verses hold possibility not only for me but also for others. There are thousands of children who are titled “wards of the state” in Michigan. My desire is that my presentation will inspire conversation not only to continue opening doors for others that were opened for me, but also to continue to open the eyes of others to become aware of opportunities for God’s glory to be seen. In light of this reflection, I urge us as Christians to see the “wards of the state” in our communities and to fulfill our universal calling as instructed in Isaiah 1:17: “Learn to practice what is good; seek justice, alleviate oppression, defend orphans in court, and plead the widow’s case.” Mentors: Dr. Craig Bowman and Dr. Mark Love Ethan West Major: Pre-Law Hometown: Royal Oak, MI The President’s War Powers The intent of this presentation is to analyze the constitutional history and philosophy governing the United States president as Commander-in-Chief. Specific areas of investigation include the historical and philosophical foundations of separation of powers; the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in the summer of 1787 and the debates therein; and “The Federalist Papers” 51 and 74, written by Alexander Hamilton, that define the powers of the commander-in-chief. The presentation will also include an extensive analysis of the landmark case Young’s Town Sheet & Tube v. Sawyer (1952) as well as the Vietnam War and the political controversies surrounding it which gave rise to the War Powers Act. The presentation will end with an historical review of the eight U.S. presidents who have violated the War Powers Act. Mentor: Dr. John Todd
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Troy Wilkinson Majors: Psychology and Business Management Hometown: Washington, MI The Effects of Training Methods on Experienced Stress When Performing a Mental Rotation Task The primary goal of training is to present an individual with skills that he or she can eventually apply to real-life scenarios. Training offers an avenue in which expectations can be clarified, self-efficacy can be increased, and work stress can be minimized. The transfer of skills can be difficult and is subject to many pitfalls. The content of the training and the manner in which the training is conducted have an effect on how the learned material will be transferred. Training can either prepare the individual to be able to transfer the information properly or improperly depending on the quality of the training experience. This study looks into how different training techniques may affect stress response, test performance, and role ambiguity. It is hypothesized that lower levels of stress and role ambiguity will follow from training scenarios that are similar to real-life applications. Mentor: Dr. Siegel-Hinson Andrew Cave Meryl Cunningham Patsy Hayter Rachel Miller Brittney Mosley Brett Reister Amy Whaley (not pictured) Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Social Work Field Practicum Reports In addition to one thousand pages of reading, written reports on the readings, and a ten-page research paper, Social Work Field Practicum (SWK 4893) requires students to log 300 hours of field experience at approved agencies and to create a portfolio that includes a daily journal of internship experiences and descriptions of the agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services and training. This presentation will highlight the studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experiences at the following agencies: Bethany Christian Services, South Oakland Shelter (SOS), Pathways to Christian Counseling, Sanctuary Bellbrook, and Mohegan High School (Chippewa Valley School District). Supervised by Professor Sarah Reddick, MSW, ACSW, LMSW
Pu blic Relations Client Campaigns In Media Internship (MED 4893), each senior public relations major plans, develops, and implements a PR campaign for a real world client. The students will discuss their PR plans and their portfolio of work during their presentations. Supervised by Juliana Blankenship, M.S.I.M.C.
Kaylee Jo Anderson Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Imlay City, MI Public Relations for On the Avenue Salon On the Avenue Salon is an independently owned full-service salon that provides six hairstylists, a nail tech, and airbrush tanning. The salon is located in downtown Imlay City and is a well-known business. On the Avenue is a Paul Mitchell signature salon looking to transform into a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon. This change would allow the company to offer special Paul Mitchell products not found elsewhere. In order to become a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon, however, On the Avenue must bring in more profits and more clients. Although On the Avenue is a recognized business, PR is required to take it to its full potential. Two major goals were set into place during the creation of On the Avenue Salon’s PR plan: rebranding and creating a website. Rebranding of the business is needed as a full renovation of the salon has occurred. There has also been a recent change in stylists and a nail tech has been added to the team. On the Avenue should stand out and be seen differently from its previous brand. The goal is to change the salon’s basic colors to a more eye-catching theme. The salon needs new business cards, mail outs, and a new logo that will mirror the new brand. A website is also desperately needed for the business as it does not currently have one. A website will allow the company to begin having a better online presence to relate to more potential clients. Many potential clients do not know what specific services the salon offers or who its stylists are. Creating a website will allow clients to research the business before they make appointments, and the website can also be used to show On the Avenue’s credibility and the awards it has won for good performance. The site will be bright and fun while showcasing the new branding. If these goals are reached, On the Avenue Salon will have more clients and will be able to become a Paul Mitchell Focus Salon. Lindsay Baslock Major: Mass Communications/Public Relations Hometown: Holly, MI PR Plan for Larry Hamilton Golf The client Lindsay represented is Larry Hamilton, a golf professional from Rochester, Michigan, who assisted Rochester College’s men’s and women’s golf teams during the 2012 Fall season. Lindsay is a member of the RC golf team and had the privilege of working on her game with Hamilton, about whom she says, “He is a great coach and mentor and the perfect client for this project.” Larry Hamilton Golf has been in the Oakland County market since 2010. At the indoor facility in downtown Rochester, golfers can be trained in any physical aspect of the game during any season of the year. Hamilton, a PGA Professional, is also the Director of Instruction at the Twin Lakes Golf Academy in Oakland Township, MI. He offers individual and group lessons for all aspects of the game. He hopes to provide the best possible coaching for all ages and skill levels. Hamilton’s name is a prominent one among golfers at Twin Lakes Golf Club. The goal for the company is to grow to be among the top names for professional golf lessons in Oakland County. Lindsay’s goals for Larry Hamilton Golf were to increase exposure and visibility, Facebook traffic, and the number of clients booking lessons. Through the use of digital and social media, these objectives will enhance the brand for Larry Hamilton Golf. Golfers of the Oakland County community will be exposed to Hamilton and come to him for any of their golfing needs.
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academic symposium 2015
Sara Beason Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Auburn Hills, MI Mitch Carr Photography Mitch Carr Photography (MCP) is an organization fairly well known to the local community. Carr has vast experience and a long-lasting company, which gives him an edge over competing companies. Although MCP has a solid website, there are several outlets for enhancing it to draw in a larger audience. Based on the current setup of its website and lack of social media, MCP is currently only appealing to a general audience of 30-to-50-year-olds. This significantly reduces Carr’s opportunity for engagement with the younger generation, who need senior portraits, graduation parties, graduations, weddings and other milestone events captured. By making changes to the website and incorporating social media into its regular communication, MCR will not only gain a vaster audience but will increase community awareness at little to no cost. In order to properly evaluate the PR plan, three objectives for MCR were selected. The first objective is to increase web traffic of www.mitchcarrphotography.com by 5% by March 30, 2015, to expand the organization’s audience. The second objective is to get Mitch Carr Photography connected to a minimum of three social media platforms to reach a younger audience than it has previously. Social media will also create easy access for communication with the audience. The third objective is to network with at least five other organizations that may help promote Mitch Carr Photography. This will be done by using brochures, print advertisements, news releases, and business cards, all of which will spread the company’s name even farther throughout the Oakland County area. Ms. Beason selected Mitch Carr Photography as her client because Mitch Carr and his wife are personal friends and because she has a background in photography, including formal courses and competition, experiences that would help her communicate effectively on behalf of the company. Joshlyn Marie Booth Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Taylor, MI Public Relations with Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan has been in operation since 1926. Since the company began, it has been striving to develop programs specifically targeted for youth aged 6 to 18. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan has been helping to grow youth in various areas including personal responsibility and self-reliance. The company focuses on five core programs that are used to help Boys & Girls Club members be successful: The Arts, Character and Leadership Development, Education and Career Development, Health and Life Skills, and Sports, Fitness and Recreation. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan-Romulus location is in need of public relations; this facility currently has no public relations activity. This client made clear that the Romulus location is in need of more parent involvement because it is at a minimum. The goal is to get more parent involvement by having parents donate items the club needs. Another goal is to increase the number of current members participating in certain programs offered at this location. This will be achieved by developing fun activities for each program that will draw current members into the programs where participation is at a minimum. Another goal of this client is to produce newsletters, flyers, and posters to promote activities and events taking place at this facility or locations within the Romulus Community. By the end of April, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan-Romulus hopes to have achieved these goals through the various public relations efforts that by then will be well established. Ms. Booth chose to work with this client because she has known the director of the facility since she was in elementary school, and her mother currently works at this location. Joshlyn felt that Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan would be the perfect client with which to do public relations work.
Bradley Fecteau Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Tampa Bay, FL Public Relations for Indie Musician, Poor Richard’s Almanac Andrew Ferriell is an independent musician under the alias “Poor Richard’s Almanac.” He started Poor Richard’s Almanac in December of 2013 and released a full-length album, In the Desert, in March 2014 on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, and other musical distribution websites. In September 2014, Poor Richard’s Almanac re-released the album via Bandcamp.com, giving consumers the option to name their own price to download the album. Poor Richard’s Almanac was recently nominated for multiple Blue Water Music Awards, including Rookie of the Year and Best Export Act. Poor Richard’s Almanac has 261 “likes” on Facebook, 63 followers on Twitter, and 115 followers on Instagram. His debut record, In the Desert, has achieved a total 35 downloads and 691 plays. Bradley has been working with Andrew Ferriell to further establish his presence, both online and in the indie music community abroad. To do so, they will attempt to direct more traffic to his Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts and send his music to various indie radio stations across Canada and the United States. Their goal is to significantly increase fans and social media interactions and have his music play on multiple radio stations. They will be leveraging information regarding Poor Richard’s Almanac’s multiple BWMA nominations, along with samples of his music, to convince DJs and independent radio station managers, both locally and internationally, to play his music on-air. Radio exposure will present him to a currently unreached audience, boosting his fan base and his following. Making DJs and station managers aware of Poor Richard’s Almanac will also further establish him in the music industry, providing him with the connections he needs to thrive. Nicholas Simonis Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Rochester, MI Public Relations Campaign for Shield Media Shield Magazine is the independent student publication of Rochester College. This presentation outlines Mr. Simonis’s efforts in further establishing this magazine’s brand and pursuing an outline for a future of tenacious creative work. Shield Media houses Shield Magazine, both print and digital, as well as ShieldTV, the group’s video production sector. Shield Media began nearly 15 years ago as The Shield, a bimonthly newspaper publication, and become a magazine in 2008, keeping its original name but completely reformatting for the new classification. A publication is a brand just like any other, responsible for representing itself in a creative and responsible manner. If anything, an entity in this field has the same, if not more, literary and aesthetic obligations to its public and to remain ahead of the curve. Shield Media gives its staff members the opportunities that they need and desire for an innovative and hands-on experience in a world of communications.
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Business Strategy and Policy Four student groups will be presenting their strategic analyses of actual corporations: Best Buy, Buffalo Wild Wings, Microsoft, and Under Armour. Each group assumes the role of consultants, hired by the Board of Directors of the corporation to present a strategic plan to the board. The groups base their strategic analyses on information learned in courses that comprise Rochester Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business core. Each student in the group will present a portion of the analysis, and each group will also answer questions posed by a panel of business professionals. Mentor: Dr. Joseph Reddick
Best Buy Maria Banou Major: Accounting Hometown: Bloomfield Hills, MI Kaylee DeAnn Khoshaba Major: Business Management Hometown: Auburn Hills, MI Nicholas A. Fredric Mikeska Major: Business Management Hometown: Chestertown, NY Nicholas V. Rossetti Major: Business Management Hometown: Lombard, IL Brooke Watts Major: Accounting Hometown: Mount Morris, MI
Bmw Andrea Megan Hedblad Major: Sports Management Hometown: Capac, MI Ryan Kapanowski Major: Sports Management Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Doug Lindensmith Major: Accounting Hometown: Warren, MI Orianna Ramos Major: Sports Management Hometown: Woodland, MI Chason Yaxley Major: Business Management Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI
Buffalo Wild Wings Kelly Peper Major: Business Management Hometown: Allen Park, MI Angela Stabel Major: Accounting Hometown: Linden, MI Alex Storm Majors: Business Management and Sports Management Hometown: Marlette, MI Evan Walker Major: Sports Management Hometown: Macomb, MI Josie Wiltse Major: Sports Management Hometown: Rose City, MI
Microsoft Joseph Paul Beshara Major: Sports Management Hometown: Troy, MI Nicolae Crisan Major: Accounting Hometown: Rochester, MI Justin Kane Major: Management Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Daniel Seargeant Major: Sports Management Hometown: Wallasey, England Brandi West Major: Sports Management Hometown: St. Louis, MO
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academic symposium 2015
Spirit Airlines Rogers Biina Major: Business Management Hometown: Jinja, Uganda Timothy Hegelein Major: Accounting Hometown: Rochester, MI Chaz Hill Major: Sports Management Hometown: Imlay City, MI Tim Murphy Major: Business Management Hometown: Clinton Township, MI Thomas Ventura Major: Business Management Hometown: Macomb, MI
Under Armour Ryan Balazy Major: Sports Management Hometown: Fowlerville, MI Travis Early Major: Management Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Jason Martens Major: Accounting Hometown: Mt. Clemens, MI Luke Strobl Major: Sports Management Hometown: St. Clair Shores, MI Nick Tomilenko Major: Management Hometown: Plymouth, MI
Nursing Majors Group Presentations Kara Bonk Michael Patrico Christina Rastelli Emily Serrano Jessica Tingey A Comparative Analysis of Nurses’ Perceptions of Massage Therapy for Oncology Patients Cancer remains one of the most prominent medical conditions seen throughout the world, with an increased disease prevalence reported annually. In recent years, an increase in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been incorporated in oncological treatment plans. CAM therapies, specifically massage therapy, extend beyond the standard of care seen throughout healthcare, yet they have been shown to yield positive outcomes for patients. The purpose of this study is to explore the perception nurses hold on the value of massage therapy and CAM therapies improving the quality of life for oncology patients. The study aimed to investigate whether nurses from a cancer centered hospital would have a more positive view on the benefits of massage therapy than nurses working on an oncology unit located in a tertiary care hospital. Registered nurses on oncology floors at Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and William Beaumont Hospital (WBH) Royal Oak, 8 South, were given a self-designed nine question 5-point Likert survey. It was predicted that the nurses at Karmanos, a hospital that specializes in oncology, would have a higher value of massage therapy and would be more willing to recommend CAM therapies to their patients than the nurses at WBH. A t-Test found there is a significant difference between the CAM/massage perceptions at WBH and Karmanos (t= 0.006; p=0.05). The variance in data between both institutes showed the most difference between the 4th question (“Massage therapy can improve oncology patients’ quality of life”) and the 8th question (“Massage therapy provides relaxation to oncology patients”). Nurses working on 8 South at WBH valued massage and CAM therapy more than nurses at Karmanos. Overall, WBH nurses averaged 80% for their view of massage and CAM therapies, and Karmanos averaged 64%. WBH nurses had a more positive view on the benefits of massage therapy than nurses at Karmanos. Nurses at both institutions desired more information on the benefits and risks of massage and CAM therapies for oncology patients. In conclusion, an increased effort should be put forth to educate oncology nurses on the positive impact CAM therapies have on improving the quality of life for patients. Mentor: Dr. Marisa Ferrari Kara Bonk Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Michael Patrico Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Christina Rastelli Hometown: Warren, MI Emily Serrano Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI Jessica Tingey Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI
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Cynthia Adamek Stephanie Ochoa Alyson Pinelli Yvonne Kassab Tamou Erika Wasson Assessment of Neonatal Nurses’ Understanding of the Finnegan’s Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Tool Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a series of different medical problems that affects newborns that have been exposed to addictive, illegal, or prescription drugs while in the mother’s womb. Finnegan’s Neonatal abstinence syndrome tool® (FNAST®) is a comprehensive and objective tool developed to assess the passively addicted infant with a method that has proven reliability. The FNAST® tool is used to evaluate the addicted infant in order to monitor the decline or improvement related to the infant’s symptoms. In addition, the FNAST® is a scoring system that can be easily taught to neonatal nurses. The scores on the FNAST are utilized to plan effective treatment, resulting in reduced need for pharmacological treatment, decreased length of stay, and decreased incidence of neurodevelopmental outcomes. The students from Rochester College School of Nursing educated the neonatal nurses at William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak on the use of the FNAST® tool. In order to measure increased knowledge and accurate assessment, a pretest and post test were implemented. A group of 42 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurses at Royal Oak Beaumont were given the pretest. After the pretest, the nurses received education regarding the FNAST® tool and its purpose to assist and provide appropriate nursing interventions and were given reference cards that assisted with the scoring of infants with NAS. To ensure education and knowledge of the FNAST®, a post test was then administered. The pretest and post test consisted of seven questions and were implemented at the nurses’ change of shift on the unit. The nurses’ score for the pretest was 55.02%; after the education, the nurses’ post test score was 78.12%, showing a post-education increase of 23%. More importantly, the results specified that question number three (score the infant before feeding) presented the most improvement with 16 more nurses answering the question correctly when taking the post test. In addition, the nurses had the most knowledge of question number six (stool consistency), on which the nurses scored an 85%. On the other hand, the nurses scored the lowest on question number four (infant with tremors) with a score of 11%. The post test results did indeed increase from the resources and education that were provided. The nurses’ knowledge increased through education; however, results of the post test indicate that NICU nurses need further education on the FNAST®. Implementing a simulation, longer time with education, and education tailored to the inadequacies are needed to improve scores. Mentor: Marisa Ferrari Cynthia Adamek Hometown: Clinton Township, MI Stephanie Ochoa Hometown: Lake Orion, MI Alyson Pinelli Hometown: Warren, MI Yvonne Kassab Tamou Hometown: Auburn Hills, MI Erika Wasson Hometown: Romulus, MI
Tina Brockway Ashley Delaney Toyika Heard-Milliner Annalise O’Meara Victoria Schoenherr Sharilynn Sweet Mirror Therapy as Treatment for Phantom Limb Pain Background: After an amputation of a limb, the person is at a high risk for experiencing phantom limb pain (PLP). This occurs when the amputee struggles with an uncomfortable or painful sensation of the limb even though it is no longer attached. These sensations may manifest differently such as stabbing, itching, immobilization of the limb, contraction, and burning. Although a fair amount of research has been done to evaluate methods of alleviating PLP, more research is needed for a better understanding of this phenomena and effective methods of treatment. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the intervention of mirror therapy when used to alleviate PLP in above and below the knee amputees. Design: This was a descriptive correlational study used to determine the relationship between use of mirror therapy and a decrease in PLP. Methods: A self-designed survey consisting of 10 questions (dichotomous style and 4-point Likert scale) was administered to each participant prior to treatment, at the midway point, and after their final session to measure their incidences of PLP. Mirror therapy sessions were 15 minutes in length. Results: Because of the small sample size (n=3), statistical analysis was not completed with the data. One participant, an amputee for less than 6 months, completed the full duration of the study and believed that the therapy was effective; after completing the six weeks of mirror therapy, the participant reported fewer instances of PLP as well as a decrease in pain intensity. Prior to therapy he reported a constant pain level of 10; by the end of therapy the participant reported a pain level of 5 with incidences of PLP 8-10 per week. The participant selected the “strongly agree” option on the survey’s 4-point Likert scale, regarding his personal belief that mirror therapy would be effective. One participant did not believe that the therapy would be effective and dropped out of the study after the first session of mirror therapy, but did complete the pre-therapy survey. He was a below the knee amputee of more than 10 years, with a reported incidence of PLP of 1-2 per month with a pain level of 0 at that particular moment. He stated, “I do not think this therapy will be effective.” The third participant was a below the knee amputee of more than 10 years and was the control group. This participant was randomly assigned to receive therapy without the mirror and also left the study after one session. He reported a pain level of 10 with an occurrence of PLP incidences 3 times per week; he selected “believe” within the survey regarding his personal belief that the therapy would be effective. Conclusions: Based on our findings with the participant who completed the study, mirror therapy does decrease the frequency and intensity of PLP when the therapy is done consistently and the participant believes that the therapy will be effective. In addition, our findings showed that when participants do not believe that the therapy will be effective, it is unlikely that they will continue to participate in the study. Due to our small sample size, more research is needed to see if mirror therapy is effective among a larger and more diverse population. Mentor: Dr. Remy Bruder Tina Brockway Hometown: Leonard, MI Toyika Heard-Milliner Hometown: Detroit, MI Ashley Delaney Hometown: Chesterfield, MI Victoria Schoenherr Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Annalise O’Meara Hometown: Oxford, MI Sharilynn Sweet Hometown: Edmore, MI
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Dalina Brikho Joesina Manalel Daun Pensavecchia Heather Sharrak Effect of Napping on Nurse Fatigue Levels Background: Fatigue among nurses is highly prevalent on midnight shifts. Literature suggests that acute fatigue causes increases in nursing errors. Research shows that napping during night shifts has been proven to improve fatigue and health status of the nurse. It also reduces medical errors, enhances clinical judgment, and maintains patient safety. Objective: This research study examines napping and fatigue levels using the Occupational Fatigue, Exhaustion, Recovery (OFER)© scale. Methods/Instruments: An educational in-service took place on a medical-surgical floor regarding fatigue in night shift nurses, including how napping can reduce fatigue. Chronic fatigue, acute fatigue, and intershift recovery were measured pre-nap and post-nap using the OFER© scale. A self-designed mixed methods questionnaire was given in addition to the post-nap OFER© scale. Sample: Participants were night shift medical-surgical registered nurses from Beaumont Health System, Royal Oak Campus. There were 22 survey packets distributed, and seven nurses returned both pre- and post-tests. These seven participants included implementation of napping during the shift for at least one night shift. Nurses surveyed were females, between 22-35 years, with a mean of 4.16 years of experience as registered nurses. Results: The pre-napping chronic fatigue levels showed a mean of 32.28/100 with a slight increase to 32.48/100 post-nap. The pre-napping acute fatigue level showed a mean of 57.42/100 with a decrease to 55.14/100 post-nap. The pre-napping intershift recovery showed a mean of 58.85/100 with an increase to 62.85/100 post-nap. Conclusions: The results suggest napping improves acute fatigue and the ability to recover between shifts. However, chronic fatigue was not improved with the implementation of the nap. Furthermore, the promotion of napping may reduce nurse judgment errors related to acute fatigue. Mentor: Dr. Remy Bruder Heather Sharrak Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Daun Pensavecchia Hometown: Rochester, MI Joesina Manale Hometown: Northville, MI Dalina Brikho Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI
Mass Commu nication Internsh ips To be prepared for the media industry, students must obtain hands-on, practical experience. All mass communication majors earn experience while in college through internships, in workshop-type classes, and by working for Shield, RC’s student media. Mass communication majors are also required to complete a 150-hour internship with a professional organization before graduation. RC mass communication majors have interned in a variety of local media outlets, such as Channel 4 WDIV-TV; The Oakland Press; Fresh 100.3; FM98 WJLB; 97.1 The Ticket; Troy Cablevision; Habitat for Humanity; Campus Crusade for Christ; and many more. With the coursework, internship, and Shield work, students graduate with a personal portfolio that will showcase their skills and experience. Supervisor: Professor Lora Hutson
Rebecca Allen Major: Mass Communication/Digital Media Hometown: Troy, MI Extreme Response International Communications Intern, Spring 2015 Rebecca was responsible for posting content to the Extreme Response social media platforms, writing and developing humanitarian articles to be used as content for social media posts, growing followers on all of Extreme Response’s social media platforms, and creating and developing additional social media accounts to further Extreme Response’s social media presence. Kaylee Anderson Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Imlay City, MI Core Cap Solutions Public Relations Intern, Fall 2014 Kaylee rebranded the company by managing social media, creating a website, designing mail out postcards, and organizing seminars. Chase Brazle Major: Mass Communication/Digital Media Hometown: Clawson, MI Farm Fresh Fotos Marketing and Digital Media Intern Chase worked on developing a website and established an online media presence for the business. Bradley Fecteau Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Capac, MI Natural Recharge Public Relations Intern, Spring 2015 Brad created print ads and wrote news releases for local publications, helped prepare a radio show, set up social media, and pursued opportunities for the owner to speak at various health events. Victoria LaFramboise Major: Mass Communication/Graphic Design Hometown: Midland, MI Grasel Graphics Graphic Design Intern, Spring 2015 Victoria designed numerous mock-ups and logos for clients through a program called Corel Draw. She printed the mock-ups on clear film, aligned them, and prepared them for screen printing.
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Shane O’Leary Major: Mass Communication/Broadcast Media Hometown: Washington, MI WBRW-TV Broadcast Intern, Summer 2014 Shane assisted with editing, camera work, running wire, and other production tasks. Philip Powell Major: Mass Communication/Journalism Hometown: Flint, MI Office of Communication Services, Rochester College Communications Intern, Fall 2014 Philip used WordPress to update content and help manage a special website for Rochester College, and he updated content on rc.edu. He also assisted with photography and photo shoots and edited photos, audio, and video. Elora Smith Major: Mass Communication/Graphic Design Hometown: Lapeer, MI Decker Equipment Design Intern, Summer 2014 Elora designed newsletters and other print material. She also coordinated the company’s Google AdWords account; created an online, interactive display of the company’s product catalog; designed, organized, and coded the company’s website for one location; and designed various website banners. Lauren Sugden Major: Mass Communication/Broadcast Media Hometown: Oxford, MI Oxford Community Television Broadcast Intern, Fall 2014 Lauren assisted with video producing, video editing, operating a studio camera, and lighting and sound. Rachel Taylor Major: Mass Communication/Public Relations Hometown: Traverse City, MI Missions.Me Public Relations Intern, Spring 2015 Rachel assisted the Creative Director by writing press releases and magazine feature articles of varying length for both print and online publications. Her main goal was to increase brand awareness for the largest mission campaign in history, 1Nation1Day.
Student Teach ing Student teaching is often considered the most exciting and demanding aspect of the teacher education program. It is the final field experience; therefore, it is the doorway into the teaching profession. Under the supervision of Dr. Mel Blohm, Dean of the School of Education and Supervisor of Student Teaching, each teacher candidate completes a fifteen-week teaching experience during their last semester at Rochester College.
Kimberly Ault Major: Music Education Hometown: Southfield, MI Student taught kindergarten-5th grade Music / Fall 2014 Madison Elementary School, Madison District Public Schools Kayla Brewer Major: Elementary Mathematics Education Hometown: Pontiac, MI Student taught 3rd grade / Spring 2015 Hugger Elementary School, Rochester Community Schools Zach Butler Major: Elementary Social Studies Education Hometown: Dillon, SC Student taught 7th grade Social Studies / Fall 2014 Reuther Middle School, Rochester Community Schools David Fleming Major: Elementary Mathematics Education Hometown: Eastpointe, MI Student taught 5th grade / Fall 2014 Madison Elementary School, Madison District Public Schools Jillian Hamm Major: Elementary Language Arts Education Hometown: Clawson, MI Student taught 1st grade / Spring 2015 Schalm Elementary School, Clawson Public Schools Holly Hemmings Major: Elementary Mathematics Education Hometown: San Diego, CA Student taught 2nd grade / Spring 2015 Hugger Elementary School, Rochester Community Schools Kurt Tunic Major: Secondary Social Studies Education Hometown: Auburn Hills, MI Student taught Civics and United States History / Spring 2015 Oxford High School, Oxford Community Schools
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Business Internsh ips Business Internship (BUS 4813) applies theory to “real world” experiences related to the student’s major through a minimum of 150 hours of work experience with an approved employer. Course requirements include completing a work journal, writing internship reports, and reading professional journals. Supervised by Professor Danette Cagnet, M.B.A.
Ryan Balazy Major: Sports Management Hometown: Fowlerville, MI Internship: Warren Woods Tower High School / Fall 2014 At Warren Woods Tower High School, Ryan served as assistant to the Athletic Director. His jobs included maintaining and overseeing game-day operations, reviewing medical paperwork for student athletes, selecting candidates for open coaching positions, dealing with academic eligibility, and handling deposits and budget expenses. Rogers Biina Major: Business Management Hometown: Jinja, Uganda Internship: Kibo Corner / Kibo Group International / Spring 2015 Rogers interned as the operations manager of Kibo Corner, the coffee shop in the Student Center of Rochester College, the proceeds of which go directly to development projects in East Africa. Rogers was responsible for overseeing the entire operation, including inventory management, daily sales, and all other activity. During the summer of 2014, Rogers worked for Kibo Group International in Uganda and participated in different projects directed by the Kibo organization in rural villages. Joseph Paul Beshara Major: Sports Management Hometown: Troy, MI Internship: Rochester Soccer Club / Spring 2015 Joseph’s internship consisted of training youth soccer players for the Rochester Soccer Club (RSC). His assignment for the club was to develop players who will, potentially, earn a spot playing for the travel team some day. The first week Joseph participated in evaluating the players; next he was assigned teams to train for the duration of the camp. Six teams were created, each playing with equal strength and consisting of about nine students. The first forty-five minutes of each session was devoted to training, and then the participants played against a different team for the next forty-five minutes. Along with the developmental soccer camps, Joseph was involved in viewing games of other coaches to gain a better understanding of how to coach properly. Watching other coaches demonstrate their abilities, he says, “gives me ideas for my own coaching strategies.” Andrea Megan Hedblad Major: Sports Management Hometown: Capac, MI Internship: Rochester College Student Financial Services / Spring 2015 As an intern, Andrea learned several aspects of federal regulations that govern Title IV aid. Andrea learned how to obtain information for legal compliance and how to apply it to real-world office settings. She also learned traits and check points as an auditor of Financial Aid files. During this process Andrea learned how to monitor both federal and institutional policies and used problem-solving skills to assure compliance. Lastly, Andrea took difficult-to-understand, raw material from the Department of Education and produced training presentations for the Student Financial Services team. Andrea has accepted a position as Events Manager at Solitude Links Golf Club upon graduation.
Ryan Kapanowski Major: Sports Management Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Internship: The Palace of Auburn Hills / Spring 2015 Ryan’s internship was at the Palace of Auburn Hills in the Guest Relations Department, working Pistons games, concerts, and other shows held at that venue. Nicole A. McKean Major: Accounting Hometown: Center Line, MI Internship: Towne Mortgage Company / Spring 2015 Throughout her internship at Town Mortgage Company, Nicole was required to translate her accounting coursework into real life scenarios. She learned from the CFO and Controller and was fortunate to work directly with them to post entries and prepare financial statements for two note portfolios. Nicole’s main task was the calculation of note payoffs for rehabilation projects in a joint venture partnership, which involved analyses of ledgers and collecting supporting documentation. Nicole also had the opportunity to assist the CFO with research and document preparation for the company’s annual financial audit. All of these are invaluable experiences since Nicole plans to become a CPA after graduation. Orianna Ramos Major: Sports Management Hometown: Woodland, MI Internship: TGA Premier Junior Golf Southeast Michigan / Spring 2014 As an intern, Orianna helped with data entry, taught many TGA classes, created and delivered flyers to schools, helped run winter break camps, and many other activities. She was also fortunate to have a major part in the decision-making process for new TGA programs. Orie has been offered a full-time position with this organization upon her graduation.
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Ministry Internsh ips The classroom is a great place to learn insights for ministry. However, ministerial students need to have “hands on” experience as well, and our Ministry Internships are designed to provide that opportunity. Under the supervision of an onsite mentor, each student must work with a church or para-church organization and must supplement that experience with written assignments and readings. Supervised by Dr. Keith Huey, Chair of the Department of Bible and Ministry James Chambers Major: Biblical Studies Hometown: Warren, MI Internship: Antioch Baptist Church in Roseville, MI / Spring 2015 Jim spent the spring semester of 2015 serving Antioch Baptist Church in Roseville where he is the youth pastor, working in this capacity since 2010. Jim worked in various areas within the church, assisting in pastoral duties such as youth ministry (grades 6-12), small group ministry, preaching, pastoral care ministry, and outreach/evangelism. Jim says, “It was a great experience as I gained valuable knowledge in ministry.” Sean Kick Major: Youth and Family Ministry Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Internship: Heritage Church / Spring 2015 Sean says, “I have had a wonderful opportunity to take on an internship with the Arts Department at Heritage Church in Sterling Heights, Michigan. While interning, I worked with an amazing, talented group of people who are responsible for all things art throughout the church, including music, promotional design, stage design, message content design, etc. Through my experience with Heritage Church’s Art Department, I have gained first-hand knowledge of what it takes to accomplish weekend services at a larger church.” Working directly under the Art Director, Sean was given the responsibilities to create series promotions and direct music teams, and he was also the stage team leader. Sean states, “Overall, I believe my experiences at Heritage Church have given me insight into the inner workings of a church, which has given me an understanding of the work required to ensure it functions correctly. This experience will help me in future careers due to my experience working on a team, as well as my personal experience in leadership.”
Social Work and Psych ology Practicums Social Work Field Practicum (SWK 4893) is the capstone course required for all social work-concentration students. Social work interns are placed in social service agencies and supervised for 300 hours by a professional with a master’s level degree in behavioral sciences. The capstone, a three-credit-hour course, must be completed within one semester. The intern completes a portfolio which includes a daily journal, reviews of 1000-1500 pages of journal articles and/or books, and a 10page research paper. Supervised by Professor Sarah Reddick, MSW, ACSW, LMSW Professor of Social Work and Sociology
Andrew Cave Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Hometown: Columbus, OH Sanctuary Bellbrook / Summer 2014 Sanctuary Bellbrook offers independent living, rehabilitation services, nursing services, assisted living, and memory care to residents generally in the age range of 65 to 95. Although Andrew helped in all departments at the facility during his internship, he spent much of his time completing paperwork and informally counseling with the residents. He also attempted to meet many spiritual needs of the residents by offering daily Bible studies and prayer time. His favorite part of the internship was simply getting to know the residents’ life stories. About his supervisor, Andrew says, “He helped me grow as a social worker, as a pastoral counselor, and as a person in general, and I look up to him in many ways.” Andrew adds that Sanctuary Bellbrook is an outstanding facility for elder care, and he highly recommends it. Meryl Alysse Cunningham Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Hometown: Lake Orion, MI Bethany Christian Services / Spring 2015 The mission of Bethany Christian Services is to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus Christ by protecting and enhancing the lives of children and families through quality social services. Meryl interned specifically for the Domestic Infant Adoption department. She shadowed home-study and post-placement visits with adoptive families and also shadowed individual interviews with prospective adoptive parents, as well as intake and counseling sessions with birthmothers who contacted her department. Meryl assisted the workers in her department by writing reports and helping to create and file petitions for adoption. Meryl also assisted in court preparations and court appearances, as well as helping prepare for educational trainings for adoptive families. Patsy Hayter Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Hometown: Clinton Township Mohegan High School / Spring 2015 The vision of Mohegan High School, part of the Chippewa Valley School District, is to assist students in academic, social, and emotional growth. As the Assistant Academic Advisor at Mohegan High School, Patsy monitored academic performance and attendance on a daily basis and met individually with students, primarily the graduating class, regarding their concerns and obstacles as well as their gains and goals. On a weekly basis she tracked and assisted students toward attaining their high school diplomas. When applicable, college and FAFSA applications were completed during exit plan meetings. While at Mohegan, Patsy served on the AlNet Prom Committee and also organized and implemented “Pasta for Pennies,” a fundraiser for Leukemia and Lymphoma that involved students and staff.
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Rachel Miller Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Hometown: Howell, MI Bethany Christian Services Bethany Christian Services is a private agency that focuses on Child Welfare. Child Welfare is expressed through several departments at Bethany such as Foster Care, Adoption, and Licensing. Rachel spent the spring semester interning for the Foster Care department. She shadowed case workers to court, home visits, and Family Team Meetings. She also observed Parenting Time visits and helped complete paperwork. Additional responsibilities included filing, shredding, copying, scanning, and uploading documents into MiSACWIS. Some of the paper work Rachel prepared included Interstate Compact of Child Placement, Michigan Works! applications, and petition packets for Wayne County. Lastly, when asked, Rachel provided her insights and interpretations of events that occurred or of cases in general. Brittney Mosley Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Hometown: Detroit, MI Pathways to Christian Counseling / Summer 2014 Brittney Mosley completed her internship at Pathways to Christian Counseling, a private agency located in Warren, Michigan, that works with all age groups. Pathways also has a program called Mercy’s Heart in which people without insurance can receive counseling. As an intern, Brittney’s responsibilities were to work with people in need of housing, transportation, and job resources. She was also responsible for putting together a resource binder, updating clients’ files, and scheduling/rescheduling appointments. Brett Reister Major: Behavioral Science/Social Work Hometown: Livonia, MI South Oakland Shelter / Fall 2015 While interning at SOS, Brett had the title of Case Management Intern. In this role, he had many responsibilities, including serving as Case Manager for two clients, one of whom exited into positive housing. Additionally, he did intake meetings on potential clients and kept notes for current clients. Brett also updated some of the paperwork used by SOS and created two new files: one designed to ease the learning curve for future interns, the other to help track bus tickets given to clients. Caleb Stinnett Major: Behavioral Science/ Social Work Hometown: Mattawan, MI South Oakland Shelter / Summer 2014 The goal of South Oakland Shelter is to end homelessness by mobilizing interfaith and community resources in Oakland County. Clients of SOS are admitted into a 30-day rotational shelter program, in which they are provided case management services to reach personal goals related to obtaining and maintaining housing. Caleb spent his time conducting client intake meetings and case management meetings with clients. He also oversaw nightly check-in procedures, researched housing and employment resources for shelter clients, and reviewed client progress with the Lead Case Manager. Additionally, Caleb assisted in client file management and office management. Amy Whaley Major: Behavioral Science/ Social Work Hometown: Fenton, MI Rockwell Assisted Living and Memory Care Homes / Spring 2015 Rockwell Assisted Living and Memory Care Homes is located in Fenton, Michigan. Amy’s main objective was to complete social work assessments on more than twenty residents at the homes and ensure their needs were being met. She also managed the activity program and created newsletters for both homes. Katelynn Moshier Nowak, a 2014 graduate, also completed a Social Work internship in the summer of 2014.
Th e Distinguish ed Faculty Award This award honors faculty who have consistently demonstrated outstanding achievements in the areas of scholarly research and/or creative endeavors, teaching and mentoring of students, service, and a variety of other activities which have brought distinction to themselves and to Rochester College. The faculty at the college submit nominations for colleagues who reflect excellence in these areas, and then the Academic Cabinet votes to select the recipient. The award is given annually and is accompanied by a professional development stipend. 2010 Dr. Robyn Siegel-Hinson The 2010 recipient, Dr. Robyn Siegel-Hinson of the Psychology Department, received the award for her outstanding work professionally and on our campus, particularly in regard to the mentoring she has done to prepare Rochester College psychology majors to make formal presentations at State and Regional Conferences in Psychology. 2011 Dr. Michael Muhitch Dr. Michael Muhitch, a member of the Department of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and a professor of Chemistry, was honored for his tireless work to teach and train students, to develop and implement innovative lab experiments and techniques, to create opportunities for students to participate in authentic research initiatives, and for his ground-breaking research done in collaboration with the University of Missouri which uses a “systems biology” approach to explore the mysteries of seed development in soybeans. 2012 Professor James Dawson Professor Dawson, a member of the Department of Teacher Education, was honored in 2012 for his consistent excellence in and out of the classroom, for his leadership in developing and implementing a variety of intensive immersion experiences for RC students, for the recognition he has earned in his field through various professional awards, his work for organizations such as the Windsor Board of Education and the Ontario Ministry of Education, and his work as an author or editor of numerous educational materials including Science textbooks, Teacher’s manuals, and testing materials. 2013 Dr. Greg Stevenson Dr. Greg Stevenson, a member of the Department of Religion and Bible for fifteen years, is a professor of New Testament. He receives high accolades from his colleagues and consistently excellent evaluations from his students, both undergraduate and graduate. Active in research, Dr. Stevenson has recently presented works to the Society of Biblical Literature on Altar Asylum in the Greco-Roman world. Recent publications include articles entitled “Of Beasts and Men: The Book of Revelation and the Apocalyptic Superhero” and “Apocalyptic War in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Supernatural, and Battlestar Galactica.” His most recent book is A Slaughtered Lamb: Revelation and the Apocalyptic Response to Evil and Suffering (ACU Press, 2013). Dr. Stevenson also regularly preaches and teaches Bible classes in area churches and speaks at lectureships and conferences around the country. 2014 Dr. Gordon MacKinnon The 2014 recipient of the Rochester College Distinguished Faculty Award was Dr. Gordon MacKinnon. Dr. MacKinnon is a highly trained and skilled clinician, who leads the Rochester College Psychology Clinic with keen interpersonal sensitivity and the highest ethical standards. In addition to his clinical acumen, he is a fine teacher and scholar who consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that his students are receiving the best educational experience. During almost two decades of service to Rochester College, careful preparation, excellent scholarship, academic rigor, and a servant’s heart engaged in mentoring and supporting students and colleagues have been the hallmarks of his work. The 2015 recipient will be named at the Academic Awards Ceremony on April 20.
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Past Symposium Speakers 2014 Wes Selke Co-founder and Managing Director of Better Ventures Investment & Investment Manager for Good Capital
2008 Emory King National news correspondent and former WDIV-TV news anchor
2013 Dr. Andy Root Author and Associate Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN
2007 Dr. Rubel Shelly Professor, minister and author
2012 Dr. Virinder Moudgil Provost, Oakland University
2006 Dr. Ted McAllister Associate professor of public policy, Pepperdine University
2011 Dr. Thomas Maridada Superintendent of Pontiac School District
2005 Dr. Lora Schwab President and CEO of i3 Statprobe
2010 Dr. Josephine Johnson Michigan Psychological Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2009 Distinguished Psychologist of the Year
2009 Dr. Anthony Leggett Winner of the 2003 Nobel Prize in Physics
2004 Dr. Joyce Todd Chief of the Appeals Division of the Oakland County Prosecutorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office
Ch allenging Acad em ics. Ch ristia n Commu nity.