Assistant Director of University Design and Branding
Jyl Hall
Director of Public Relations
Stacy Schmidt
Assistant Director of Public Relations/Publications
Sarah Shurtliff
Director of Academic Budget
FEATURE STORIES
Revolutionizing Film Education: Utah Tech Takes its Hands-On Approach Across the Globe
Three New Master’s Programs Available through Utah Tech
Utah Tech’s Marketing Program: Preparing Students for Real-World Success
Utah Tech University’s Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program: Empowering Students with Success
Innovation Labs Advances Tech Projects Across Utah
NEW ACADEMIC DEGREES, CERTIFICATES & CENTERS ACTIVE
Students Drive Real Business Results Through Analytics and Modeling Center
English Department Embraces Benefits of AI in the Classroom
Teacher Education Program Builds Bright Futures
UT Partners with Intermountain Health to Create Functional Genomics Program
Insight Communication Explores Real-World Public Relations Management
Art Department Offers New Opportunity to Study in Germany
The Center for Endurance and Extreme Human Performance: Student Engagement and Involvement Meets Innovation and Research
START AgriTech: Revolutionizing Agriculture in the Desert
Dancing Across the Seas
Students Learn the Value of Virality
Sandbox: Opening the Door to Opportunity
FACULTY, STAFF, AND STUDENTS
English Students Present at Sigma Tau Delta National Convention
Utah Tech University Advances its Polytechnic Mission through Online Education
UNIVERSAE and Utah Tech: An International Articulation
Research into Ambitious and Equitable Instruction Helps Elementary School Educators
Utah Tech Brings Back ROTC Program, Offering Dual Pathways for Leadership Development
UT Alumnus Noah Washington: Paving a Career in Law
Profesors, Student Gain an International Perspective on the Art of Ceramics
Utah Tech at the Forefront of Global Workforce Development
Utah Tech University Partners with Maricopa County Community Colleges
UT Alumnus Pryce Seely: From Utah Tech to NCIS
Utah Tech University Offers New Humanities, Philosophy, and Religious Studies Major
Dental Hygiene Program Takes its Newly Upgraded Mobile Clinic to the Community
Roger Hale: Innovative Music Education
UT Alumnus Max Christensen: Applying Skills and Passion to a Marketing Career
Utah Tech Hosts Southern Utah Early Childhood Conference
Utah Tech University Hosts 2nd Annual Juanita Brooks Utah History Conference
UT’s Human-Tech Speaker Series: Examining Humans at the Center of a Tech-Focused World
UTAH
NEW ACADEMIC DEGREES & CERTIFICATES
Doctorate Degree
Occupational Therapy
Master’s Degrees
Healthcare Administration
Software Development
User Experience Design
Bachelor’s Degree
BS in Humanities, Philosophy, and Religious Studies
Associate Degrees
Pre-Programming (Specialized Associate)
Certificates
Art VR/VX
Arts Management
Choral Conducting
Cybersecurity
Data Science
Digital Film
Elementary Music
Introduction to Machine Learning
Machine Learning in Biology
Orchestral Conducting
Programming VR/VX
Wind Band Conducting
Minors
Digital Film
Humanities (new name)
Sport Coaching
Military Science
NEW ACADEMIC CENTERS FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 2023-2024
• Center for Endurance and Extreme Human Performance
Center for Precision Medicine and Functional Genomics
• Utah Tech Pro Bono Center (Physical Therapy)
New Academic Departments
Military Science
Occupational Therapy
New Names For Existing Academic Programs
Design, Associate of Applied Science
Digital Media Studies
Recreation Management, Health and Wellness Emphasis
Recreation Management, Sport and Athletic Administration
Emphasis
REVOLUTIONIZING FILM EDUCATION:
Utah Tech Takes Its Hands-On Approach Across The Globe
Robert Cade Thompson, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis
In conjunction with Utah Tech’s technological focus, its art programs—especially the film program—are thriving like never before. Although the University has long had a film program, recent transformations have taken it to new heights.
Patrick Smith, Assistant Professor of Digital Film, shares, “We’ve rebuilt the whole film program so that we would be the most active film program in the state.” The changes emphasize professional, hands-on experience, ensuring students are involved in every aspect of film production.
In the first year of the revamped program, over 40 student films were created and accepted into festivals across the country. Highlighting the success of the initiative, Smith
remarks, “It was huge.” However, the program’s vision extends far beyond this single achievement. Emphasizing the goal of preparing students for real-world success, Smith continues, “We want you on set, we want you making movies, and we want you getting paid to do that because we want you to build a professional resume before you leave.”
The program’s structure allows students from freshman to senior year to work together. This collaborative model enables new students to gain early, hands-on experience while upperclassmen take on key production roles. Each year, students focus on different aspects of filmmaking, building a comprehensive skill set that prepares them to enter the industry after graduation.
Expanding on the year-round opportunities, Utah Tech is developing study abroad trips focused on filmmaking. Each summer, students travel abroad and work collectively to produce a full-length feature film, aiming for professional distribution. Smith emphasizes the ambition behind this model: “Our goal now is every summer we’re going to have a study abroad that we shoot an entire feature film that we try to release, with broad distribution . . . either a theatrical release or a Netflix distribution.”
Utah Tech’s Creative Studios, a professional media conglomerate developed alongside the film program, adds another dimension to student learning. This in-house studio allows students to work on real-world projects for
paying clients. By providing students these opportunities, the University ensures that graduates leave with academic knowledge along with practical experience.
This innovative approach to film education is helping Utah Tech continue to be a leader in hands-on learning. With the University’s commitment to providing real-world experience, students are no longer simply studying film theory—they’re actively building professional resumes while still in school. From the collaborative, year-round production process to the opportunity to work on client-based projects through Utah Tech Creative Studios, students are equipped to succeed in a competitive industry. As Smith puts it, “We want you making movies, and we want you getting paid to do that.”
ENGLISH STUDENTS PRESENT AT SIGMA TAU DELTA NATIONAL CONVENTION
Owen Johnson, Senior, English Technical Writing Major, Creative Writing Minor
In April 2024, ten English students and two faculty had the opportunity to travel to St. Louis, Missouri, to present their research at the Sigma Tau Delta Centennial Convention alongside peers from across the country. Each of these students is a member of the international English honor society, which is dedicated to furthering the conversation on language, literature, and rhetoric. At the convention, students presented papers to audiences of their peers, shared their research at roundtables, attended workshops, and had the opportunity to listen to Donika Kelly, an award-winning poet.
Tilly Gibb, a UT student who attended the conference, describes her experience: “I presented a creative nonfiction piece, and it was interesting to listen to others’ work in the same genre. I learned a lot from the other students’ papers.” Each session featured roughly three to five students who read their pieces and then opened the conversation to the audience for comments and discussion.
Many students also participated in a roundtable, with UT students securing two spots to present: one on Agatha Christie and the other discussing the hidden genre of fanfiction. Savanna Romero, who presented on the latter, shares, “It felt
really good to present to a room of like-minded individuals. Although I enjoy talking to people with different interests, it felt amazing to be able to have a discussion with thirty-plus people about something that we were all passionate about.”
One of the most important aspects of the convention is the involvement of students in its formation. Charlotte Beal, former President of UT’s Sigma Tau Delta chapter, served as a student leader for the convention. They describe their experience as very stressful, stating that they felt like they were constantly running from one place to another. Despite the stress, Beal explains, “There was great satisfaction in working so hard on planning the convention for it to end up going so well. The student leaders put so much effort into the event, and I feel that it gave me valuable academic, professional, and personal insights.”
In the end, their efforts, along with the efforts of the other UT students, led to an excellent convention, and they plan to continue attending for years to come.
UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY ADVANCES ITS POLYTECHNIC MISSION THROUGH ONLINE EDUCATION
Cisalee Burgess, Graduate Student, English Technical Writing & Digital Rhetoric
Online education at Utah Tech University continues to grow on multiple fronts. From Fall 2019 to Fall 2024, online enrollment has increased by 90 percent, and the number of students enrolled in fully online programs has increased by 119 percent. Currently, Utah Tech has over 600 students pursuing fully online degree programs. The University offers 22 online degree options, nine online certificates, and more than 300 online courses.
Marc Lundstrom, Executive Director of Utah Tech Online, explains, “The first fully online degree program began in 2018, and now the University offers multiple online degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, or master’s levels.” Lundstrom adds, “The University works hard to provide a robust offering of courses that incorporate active and applied learning experiences that are engaging for students.” To achieve this, Utah Tech Online has a team of learning design and media design professionals who support faculty in delivering handson, high-quality online courses and programs. Developments span a variety of innovative approaches. Utah Tech has implemented virtual reality (VR) technology in dental hygiene and physics coursework and has invested in Hybrid-Flexible (HyFlex) classrooms in the Smith Computer Center, specially equipped for UX design and software development. Starting in Fall 2024, the University began offering a Registered Respiratory Therapist to BS Respiratory Therapy (RRT-to-BSRT) degree completion program, along
with three master’s programs: Master of User Experience Design, Master of Software Development, and Master of Healthcare Administration.
The University continues to provide synchronous and asynchronous courses for students attending in-state, outof-state, and internationally. This flexibility is appreciated by student-athletes as well as other learners balancing part-time or full-time employment and additional responsibilities.
Since online courses offer a high level of flexibility and convenience, students can choose what best suits their needs. For example, hybrid courses allow students to attend in-class or virtually. Additionally, online-specific student support services are available.
Transforming curriculum this way challenges traditional ideas of how classrooms should look and operate. However, it’s the instructors, designers, and support staff who make these new approaches successful.
Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs
Chris Guymon states, “Technology is an additive. It does not replace people, but it can be used for enhancing experiences for student learning.” Guymon advises that we “imagine all the possibilities when we look to the future—starting with the University as it is and what it can be.”
Online education is one of the ways Utah Tech University is advancing its polytechnic mission, providing students with new and innovative ways to learn and keeping them on a path to success.
STUDENTS DRIVE REAL BUSINESS RESULTS THROUGH ANALYTICS AND MODELING CENTER
Jake Harber, Senior, Communication Major
For the past four years, Utah Tech University’s Analytics and Modeling Center has offered its students incredible, hands-on experiences that directly benefit local and national businesses–all at no cost.
Open to students across all disciplines, the Center holds weekly meetings featuring guest speakers, mentorship from industry professionals, and hands-on business projects focused on data analytics. It also offers course credit as a practicum class at UT.
Businesses supported by the Center benefit from meaningful insights and informed decision-making through these free services. Even Utah Tech’s basketball team has benefitted from the Center’s work, with students identifying historical trends in player types that have been successful with the team. By matching these trends with transfer portal options, the students have helped optimize the team’s recruiting and decision-making process.
The practical experience gained by students at the Center has led to highly successful job placements, with graduates securing positions at top companies and building valuable professional networks. By applying UT’s “active learning. active life.” motto, students at the Analytics and Modeling Center gain both portfolio-building experience and meaningful industry connections, translating into real job opportunities after graduation.
UNIVERSAE AND UTAH TECH: An International Articulation
Kylie Buchanan, Senior Criminal Justice Major, Digital Defense and Security Emphasis, Professional and Technical Writing Minor
After years of hard work and collaboration, Utah Tech University (UT) and UNIVERSAE College have reached an agreement for an international articulation program—the first of its kind for UT.
The conversation began in December of 2022 when UT reached out to UNIVERSAE in an effort to expand its international presence. UNIVERSAE, a leading educational group globally, offers a variety of virtual and distance learning programs, with a particular focus on tech-related fields.
Shadman Bashir, Executive Director of the Office of International Programs, followed up on the initial correspondence while traveling with UT’s Fusion dance team during spring break 2023, visiting the UNIVERSAE
campus. Impressed after seeing UNIVERSAE in action, Bashir reached out to UT Professor Joe Francom. Francom, Chair of the Department of Computing and Professor of Computer Science, traveled to UNIVERSAE in Spain in May 2024 to assist in finalizing the collaboration agreement and ensuring the smooth transfer of credits for UNIVERSAE students pursuing degrees at UT in fields such as software engineering.
Francom highlights the positive aspects of the collaboration: “By bringing more students from UNIVERSAE, this will increase the multicultural awareness among our students. We will create a more diverse population within our degrees.”
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT EMBRACES BENEFITS OF AI IN THE CLASSROOM
Owen Johnson, Senior, English Technical Writing Major, Creative Writing Minor
When AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and CoPilot started growing in popularity in recent years, many educators had concerns about how it would impact their classes. The primary concern was that students might bypass learning opportunities by simply writing a prompt and copying what ChatGPT generates. As a result, many educators have banned the use of AI in their classrooms. While this reduces the chance of students cheating, it also blocks a potentially helpful tool.
Dr. Mike Peterson, Associate Professor of English and English Department Chair, doesn’t ban AI in his classrooms. Instead, he encourages students to use it in specific activities. For example, while drafting a research essay, Peterson explains, “I have them create their regular draft, then I have them create an AI version of it, then they do a reflective activity.” Through this activity, students compare human writing with AI-generated writing, often realizing that while AI can create something in seconds, the quality is generally lower.
The primary reason Peterson incorporates AI into his curriculum is to better understand how students use it and why. It also provides him with a valuable opportunity to teach
students how to use it effectively and ethically. When asked about his own use of AI, Peterson shares, “I use it to play. I play around with it so I know what’s out there, so I can speak somewhat intelligently with my students about it, but I have yet to find a context where it made my life easier.”
Many other faculty in the English Department discourage students from using AI, with one exception: idea generation. One of the most important things English majors need when writing is ideas, and AI can generate a vast number of them instantly.
Dr. Joy McMurrin, Associate Professor of English specializing in Professional and Technical Writing, encourages the use of AI for brainstorming. She tells students, “Use AI as a way to broaden the scope of an idea, and then from there, use it to narrow and refine thoughts. Utilize AI as a partner in brainstorming.”
Overall, the work of English majors is not significantly impacted or diminished by AI. If anything, AI will help both the department and students reach greater heights.
THREE NEW MASTER’S PROGRAMS AVAILABLE THROUGH UTAH TECH
Seegmiller, Junior, Biology Natural Science Major, Creative Writing Minor
Three new Master’s programs are now available at Utah Tech: the Master of Healthcare Administration, the Master of Software Development, and the Master of User Experience Design. Offering a range of program lengths, flexibility, and career outcomes, all three programs provide options to accommodate students’ busy schedules.
The Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) program at UT is an online program that prepares students for administrative roles in healthcare. The program takes about two years to complete, requires 42 credits, and prepares students for pivotal leadership positions. Students also can obtain a useful certification in biomedical informatics as they work toward their degree. The MHA program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing students to customize their education to align with their career goals through experiential learning opportunities such as research projects, internships, and study abroad trips.
The Master of Software Development (MSD) program is designed for adult learners who have no prior programming experience and seek a new career in software development. The program is collaborative and offers HyFlex courses that allow students to attend in person or via video conference. Classes build essential skills like coding and app development. The program can be completed in as little as 16 months and requires 30 credits. A one-year scholarship is available to qualifying students. The MSD program emphasizes impactful experiences by collaborating with Utah Tech’s other new program, the Master of User Experience Design. By working on real-world projects alongside students in this complementary program, MSD students gain the practical experience needed to succeed in software development.
Madysen
Lastly, the Master of User Experience Design (MUXD) brings together people from degree fields such as journalism, computer science, and design who share similar interests in improving user experience, particularly for digital products.
Like MSD, this collaborative, hands-on degree aims to broaden students’ skill sets and refine their current knowledge in various aspects of user experience such as visual aesthetics and functionality. The MUXD program is also offered in a flexible hybrid format, allowing students to choose between classroombased or video conference-based sessions.
Students in this program acquire key skills including human-centered research, design, communications, and analysis. Their designs will be evaluated through real-world feedback. Like the MSD degree, the program spans 16 months and requires 30 credits. With the rise of new technology, many careers focus on user experience design spanning areas like user interface, research, writing, product design, or project management making it an accessible and interactive career
RESEARCH INTO AMBITIOUS AND EQUITABLE INSTRUCTION HELPS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EDUCATORS
Madysen Seegmiller, Junior, Biology Natural Science Major, Creative Writing Minor
Dr. Byugeun Pak, Assistant Professor of Education, is conducting collaborative research with an undergraduate student Kylie Ice concerning teaching strategies that could shift classroom dynamics. His aim is to support early education teachers by strengthening their knowledge in ambitious and equitable instruction, with a specific focus on number talks.
Ambitious and equitable instruction is an approach in which educators continually strive to create a learning environment that is accessible and engaging for all students, leading to confident and capable learners. This strategy is essential for cultivating positive learning experiences in the classroom. In elementary education, math is often a challenging subject—both for teachers to effectively teach and for students to maintain confidence. Teachers introduce this type of instruction by using number talks, which are 5- to 10-minute sessions where students work through math problems and discuss their thought processes.
For many teachers, figuring out how to introduce these methods into the classroom can be a daunting task. Despite its positive reception, limited research exists on how teachers can implement strategies like number talks. Pak aims to address this gap through a university-funded project, collaborating with Ice to discover new ways teachers can help students make connections across different mathematical concepts. By fostering these connections, even with foundational skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division,
elementary teachers can provide their students with valuable opportunities to practice critical thinking and deep learning skills at a young age.
Pak and Ice are collaborating to deepen their understanding of number talks and their role in ambitious and equitable instruction by analyzing data from student number talks. Pak explains, “Through this collaboration, I hope to not only advance our understanding of these instructional practices but also guide the co-investigator in developing her skills in research, particularly in data analysis, and cultivate her identity as a teacher-researcher within her own teaching practice.”
Additionally, Pak has consistently refined his Mathematics Methods course by incorporating strategies recommended by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. By strengthening his coursework and streamlining instructional activities centered around number talks, Pak and his students can observe firsthand how to refine how professors teach education.
TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAM BUILDS BRIGHT FUTURES
Alyssa Bayles, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis
From collaborations with local school districts to supportive staff, the Teacher Education Department at Utah Tech University helps students pursue careers that will impact the lives of the next generation.
The Teacher Education Department consists of two programs: elementary education and secondary education. The elementary education program prepares graduates for a kindergarten through eighth-grade license, along with the opportunity to earn an ESL endorsement. The secondary education program aligns with the student’s declared major and leads to a sixth through twelfth-grade license.
Both programs follow the department’s mission statement to “create learning experiences for its candidates that foster collaboration, professionalism, and competence in content and pedagogical knowledge.” The two-year program, which students participate in after completing two years of general education credits, offers a variety of coursework and teaching experiences, including hands-on experience gained through school visits and student teaching in local school districts.
Dr. Angie Child, Program Director for Elementary Education, notes that most students build a support system with their classmates as they progress through the program.
She says, “A highlight for our program is we have a cohort system, so the students come in, and they stay together with their group of students and move through the two years all together.”
Working hand-in-hand with the cohort system, Child explains that both students and professors collaborate to ensure students are learning material that best prepares them for the classroom. “I love that we work together,” Child says, “and because of that, I think it makes a more fluid and cohesive experience for the students.”
This effort includes structuring the semester with the students’ best interests in mind. Child is looking forward to this next generation of teachers who will soon enter the classroom after graduating from Utah Tech. Whether inspired by a past teacher or wanting to make a difference, these future teachers are eager to build a positive future through their own classrooms.
“They are very motivated and excited to become classroom teachers, which I am grateful for because we do need good teachers,” Child says. “We put out some really spectacular teachers from our program.”
UTAH TECH’S MARKETING PROGRAM: Preparing Students for Real-World Success
Addison Arnold, Senior, Interdisciplinary Studies Major, English and Family Studies Emphasis
Utah Tech University takes pride in offering strong programs among different subjects, and its Marketing Program is one example standing out for its strong emphasis on applied learning. This emphasis ensures that students not only understand theoretical concepts but also gain valuable realworld experience. By integrating practical application into the curriculum, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-changing marketing world.
The center of the Marketing Program’s success is its integration of industry-standard tools and software, allowing students to engage in marketing practices they will use in their careers. In the classroom, students work with platforms such as Adobe, Google Analytics, and HubSpot to gain practical experience with SEO, marketing automation, and digital marketing. According to Dr. Kristy Grayson, Associate Professor of Marketing, the students “are not just learning theory; they are applying their skills in real-world scenarios.” This approach helps students as they prepare to transition from the classroom to the professional world.
Another key aspect of the program is its collaboration with local businesses. Students don’t just work on hypothetical projects; they develop real strategies for start-ups and conduct market research for major events, such as the St. George Marathon. These projects provide students with firsthand experiences that benefit both their learning and the local community. These projects teach students how to navigate real client demands and deadlines, essential skills for successful marketing careers.
The program also emphasizes entrepreneurship, offering students the opportunity to develop and launch their own business ideas. In Grayson’s Entrepreneurial Marketing course, for example, students are encouraged to think like entrepreneurs, creating everything from product concepts to marketing strategies. This hands-on approach is supported by resources like Utah Tech’s Small Business Resource Center, helping students turn their ideas into reality. As Grayson explains, in this course “students develop a comprehensive portfolio they can present to investors or future employers.”
What truly sets Utah Tech’s marketing program apart is its focus on preparing students for the workforce. Grayson emphasizes that students in the program aren’t just learning how to create marketing plans—they are developing the skills to adapt those plans in response to changing market conditions. “Our program teaches students to be nimble and to think critically,” she says, stressing the importance of flexibility in an ever-evolving industry.
The program’s applied learning approach has translated into tangible job placement success for its graduates. Many students secure internships with local businesses, and several are hired into full-time roles by the companies they work with during their time in the program. Local businesses have recruited Utah Tech graduates, demonstrating the program’s ability to connect students with career opportunities.
Ultimately, Utah Tech’s marketing program exemplifies how applied learning can transform classroom education into a pathway for career readiness. By combining classroom instruction with real-world projects and industry tools, the program equips students to meet the challenges of the modern marketing world.
UTAH TECH BRINGS BACK ROTC PROGRAM, OFFERING DUAL PATHWAYS FOR LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Addison Arnold, Senior, Integrated Studies Major, English and Family Studies Emphasis
Utah Tech University’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program returned to campus this fall. The program is primarily designed to train students to become officers in the United States Army and provides them with valuable leadership skills that are beneficial regardless of their military aspirations.
The ROTC program emphasizes leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for both personal and professional development. “The Army ROTC program is a leadership course,” explains Captain Dalan Bennett, Department Chair and Officer in Charge of the ROTC program at UT. “You don’t have to have a military commitment to join the Army ROTC. There are two pathways: one to become an officer, and another [for students who] just want to develop leadership and communication skills.”
This dual-pathway system makes the program accessible and appealing to a broad range of students. Bennett also adds that students who choose not to join the military will
still gain “a familiarization and understanding of military programs” that can be valuable in future leadership roles within their communities. UT’s ROTC program aligns with the university’s goal of fostering an active learning environment through hands-on experiences. Students engage in classroom instruction, physical fitness training, and practical lab exercises in real-world settings, such as orienteering in the mountains or volunteering in their community.
The re-introduction of the ROTC program will benefit not only the students but the University as well. Bennett notes that many prospective students have asked about a ROTC program at UT. “When they weren’t able to say yes to that answer, we were losing students to other universities,” he explains.
As the program grows, the University aims to expand its cadet corps and establish a strong ROTC presence. With an initial goal of 20 cadets already surpassed in its first semester, UT’s ROTC is well on its way to becoming a strong part of the campus community.
UT PARTNERS WITH INTERMOUNTAIN HEALTH TO CREATE FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS PROGRAM
Madysen Seegmiller, Junior, Biology Natural Science Major, Creative Writing Minor
Building off the momentum of Utah Tech University students using zebrafish as model organisms in their Functional Genomics Certificate Program, the University is launching a three-year Masters Research Agreement partnership with Intermountain Health (IH) in the Spring 2025 semester. In this partnership, students support IH physicians who are conducting research in genetic mutations, particularly in cardiology and lung disorders. Given that these physicians have demanding schedules, students assist in advancing the research, benefiting all involved.
The program’s process is as follows: when IH scientists identify gene mutations unknown to current research, they determine whether these mutations are harmful by inserting them into zebrafish—a type of freshwater fish whose genetic makeup is similar to humans. The mutated gene sequence is sent to Utah Tech, where students knock out the corresponding sequence in zebrafish and insert the human version of the gene to test if the mutation has health
implications. That information is then sent back to IH’s research center, where physicians use it for applications like gene therapy.
Dr. Aaron Davis, Interim Dean for the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology, shares his goals and excitement for the upcoming program. He explains, “The main goal of this partnership is authentic and applied research experience for students. It is very cool to learn about the potential of gene editing technology and gene therapies, and in a class, it is entirely different to do them yourself and conduct these experiments.” His advice to students interested in this field is to take a class to see if a passion is sparked. Students can begin working in this program within their first year, with the goal of becoming qualified to conduct independent research.
The collaboration with Intermountain Health is a valuable opportunity for scientists and physicians working to further genetic research, potentially generating novel intellectual property with Utah Tech students, who gain hands-on, polytechnic experience in the process.
Samantha Aiken, Communication Studies Major, Professional and Technical Writing Certificate
Insight Communication, a public relations practicum advised by Dr. Erin Ortiz, provides students with hands-on experience running a PR agency. Enrolled students gain practical experience managing real-world client accounts. Among other valuable PR work skills, students learn to balance client expectations with deliverable outcomes.
Students enrolled in Insight Communication influence the type of PR skills learned and practiced throughout the semester. In the Spring 2024 semester, the course focused on social media, with an emphasis on photography and video editing.
Insight Communication students participate in community partnerships such as the Jubilee of Trees to
promote its November keystone philanthropic event benefiting Intermountain Health’s St. George Regional Hospital. Students also promote an annual Spring 5k fun run through a partnership with Donor Connect, a community nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the southern Utah community about organ donation.
Students in Insight Communication also have collaborated with local towns such as Santa Clara and Springdale to organize community campaigns and events. The students developed a written campaign for Santa Clara encouraging residents to shop locally; and in Springdale, they presented market research findings on the impact of tourism on residents’ quality of life.
UT ALUMNUS NOAH WASHINGTON: Paving a Career in Law
Alyssa Bayles, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis
Whether at the Utah Tech Writing Center or a law firm, Noah Washington has consistently found ways to make a difference in people’s lives. He began his journey as the Writing Center Coordinator, helping others at Utah Tech University. In 2023, he graduated from UT with a bachelor’s degree in communication and then continued his academic journey at Notre Dame Law School.
His law journey, however, started at Utah Tech when he became a legal assistant at Proven Law during his junior year. Dr. James Stein, Assistant Professor of Communication, remarks that Washington always stood out in his classes for his willingness to ask questions and friendliness with his peers and professors. Stein notes, “Everybody has their own degree to which they ask [questions], but I noticed that when [Washington] asks, his questions were always a little bit more purposeful and a little bit more poignant.” Washington’s curiosity will be a benefit because, according to Stein, “I can’t
think of a profession that involves much more question asking than a lawyer, so that practice of question asking definitely helps.”
With the skills he gained at Utah Tech, Washington will successfully complete both the Notre Dame ESTEEM Graduate Program and graduate from law school in May 2026, before going on to make an impact as a lawyer.
PROFESSORS, STUDENT GAIN AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE ART OF CERAMICS
Alyssa Bayles, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis
As a way to promote international academic exchanges between potters and professors, the International Society for Ceramic Art Education and Exchange (ISCAEE) held an eight-day conference in Rong County, China. Professor Meaghan Gates and Professor Shane Christensen, along with Bachelor of Fine Arts student Ilai Raabe, attended from Utah Tech University.
From August 25 to September 1, the conference featured presentations, lectures, and demonstrations for the attendees. Gates and Christensen were among the presenters, sharing their research as part of an effort to exchange information with other institutions.
Gates presented her artistic practice by exhibiting a sculpture and a couple of wood-fired tea bowls and by giving a lecture on her artistic path. Christensen, on the other hand, focused on demonstrating his throwing skills on a potter’s wheel. When not presenting, they attended presentations and lectures from universities around the world.
Gates explains, “We were getting perspectives on how they do their practices there, both artistic and through industrial ceramics.” Gates also says, “It was a really great opportunity for our student, who’s just starting ceramics, to see these things happening.”
One of the opportunities at the convention was traveling to different ceramic sites in the city. The theme of the conference was industrial ceramics, giving attendees the opportunity to visit factories that are making vessels for various industries. Gates says that attendees were able to observe the differences between techniques used when items were hand-built and techniques used today.
Gates enjoyed the conference. She says that her favorite part was “meeting new people from all around the world” and gaining perspectives on “the art that they’re interested in.” She loves “experiencing new cultures, food, and clothing,” adding that all the little differences are “fascinatingly fun.”
Through attending this conference, artists from many countries gained inspiration and knowledge. Gates says, “I think these kinds of experiences are really important for not only faculty members to take part in, in any area, but also students to take part in because it really changes your view on what you’re doing and gives you a broader view of where you can go with what you’re studying.”
ART DEPARTMENT OFFERS NEW OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY IN GERMANY
Gaylen Bailey, Junior, English Major, Literary Studies Emphasis
The Fall 2024 semester marked the launch of an exciting new travel study program offered by Utah Tech University’s Art Department.
At a Global Polytechnic Summit hosted by Utah Tech in 2023, a faculty member from Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences in Germany was impressed by a presentation on the Utah Tech Creative Studios project. She extended an open invitation for the presenters to visit the Darmstadt campus if they were ever in the area. This connection led to UT’s Art Department Chair Alex Chamberlain traveling to Darmstadt, Germany, to talk to the university about their programs. During his brief visit, the idea of an exchange program between the two universities was born.
Chamberlain states the fundamental goal of all travel study programs is to encourage students to be “citizens of the world,” meaning “they’ve experienced the world outside of the familiar.” This exchange program will provide Utah Tech art students with access to the unique educational and networking opportunities offered by Darmstadt’s well-established school.
In the fall of 2024, Utah Tech sent its first animation student to Darmstadt to pioneer the new travel study program. Sam Hunt, a student selected from an advanced animation course, had access to unique classes not currently offered by UT. On the Darmstadt campus, Hunt focused on the more technical aspects of 3D animation, allowing him to develop specialized skills that he would otherwise have to learn independently.
The project is already accomplishing its goals. Hunt describes his time in Germany as “a bit of an adjustment” due to cultural differences, but he’s been enjoying the fresh perspective and is enthusiastic about what the country has to offer him as a student.
Students participating in the exchange can choose to attend for either one semester or a full year. Chamberlain anticipates that Darmstadt will be sending its own students to Utah Tech beginning in the Spring 2025 semester.
With each year’s growing achievements, it is an exciting time to be in Utah Tech’s thriving Art Department.
UTAH TECH AT THE FOREFRONT OF GLOBAL WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Robert Cade Thompson, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis
Technical industries are evolving rapidly across the globe, and Utah Tech’s College of Health Sciences and community connection efforts are at the forefront. Last May, two of the University’s esteemed faculty and one staff member were invited to present at a polytechnic summit hosted in Canada. Countries from all around the globe attended and presented the programs used to manage developing needs in tech industries. Utah Tech specifically highlighted its workforce development initiatives.
Associate Professor and Department Chair of Nursing Dr. Judy Scott was one of the University’s three presenters. Scott explained, “I love what I do and think we at Utah Tech have the best Nursing programs for our students.” She highlighted her program’s “nursing ladder of success,” which offers an accessible pathway for students at all educational levels. By setting clear goals and progressions, the program accommodates a diverse range of students while guiding them toward success. “We have a highly skilled, qualified faculty too,” Scott added. “We’re small, but we can do a lot.”
The second presenter Dave Reiff, Regional Pathways Coordinator at Utah Tech, emphasized how recent developments in educational pathways are benefiting Utah communities. He discussed the 2016 Strategic Workforce Investments (Senate Bill 103), which expanded educational opportunities, and the 2020 passage of Senate Bill 111, which
improved access to education. According to Reiff, both senate bills increased collaboration between schools and reduced student debt. Reiff also highlighted Governor Cox’s recent efforts to expand access to technical and college courses for high school students, helping prepare them for in-demand jobs.
Finally, Dr. Eliezer Bermudez, Dean of the College of Health Sciences, discussed additional workforce initiatives within the college. For example, the college offers programs that allow high school students to visit labs and participate in hands-on learning. Additionally, seventh and eighth graders visit to participate in a full week of interactive experiences. “We guide the students from early on to get a career path in health sciences,” Bermudez said. But it doesn’t stop there. Bermudez also emphasized that their programs help current university students explore lesser-known health science pathways, creating more opportunities for their future careers.
Polytechnic summits, like the one held last May, play a crucial role in addressing global challenges in technology. Speaking of the importance of such conferences, Bermudez said, “There’s a big demand in the health sciences, and there are so many opportunities in the health field—it’s not only one path.” By fostering these conversations and collaborations, Utah Tech is helping to shape the future of health sciences education—and the global workforce.
UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY PARTNERS WITH MARICOPA COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGES
Addison Arnold, Senior, Interdisciplinary Studies Major, English and Family Studies emphasis
Utah Tech University has established a new partnership with Maricopa County Community Colleges (MCCC), one of the largest community college districts in the country. The newly signed articulation agreement with MCCC allows graduates from any of the ten Maricopa colleges to seamlessly transfer into Utah Tech’s programs.
Since more than 100,000 students attend MCCC each year, Utah Tech anticipates that this partnership will significantly increase its transfer student population. Dave Reiff, Utah Tech’s Regional Academic Pathways Coordinator, explains, “This partnership is monumental because it not only
UT ALUMNUS PRYCE SEELY: From Utah Tech to NCIS
addresses the demand for jobs in our area but also increases enrollment in our programs.”
The collaboration offers both affordability and simplicity for MCCC students while ensuring a high-quality education. Transfer students will benefit from reduced tuition rates and Utah Tech’s commitment to applied learning.
With a goal to increase transfer student enrollment, Utah Tech expects this articulation agreement to be valuable for both the University and its students.
Robert Cade Thompson, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis
Pryce Seely, a graduate of Utah Tech University’s cybersecurity program, quickly transitioned from student to professional, snaring a position with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS).
Originally from Southern Utah and Washington, Seely earned a bachelor’s degree in business from BYU-Idaho in 2020 before discovering his passion for cybersecurity. Inspired by the growing prevalence of cyber threats, he left his job and returned to school to pursue a degree in cybersecurity at Utah Tech.
During his time at Utah Tech, Seely not only excelled in his courses but also served as president of the Utah Tech Cyber Club. Under his leadership, the club achieved national recognition, ranking 167th out of over 4,000 teams in a competition.
Mark Spooner, Director of Utah Tech’s Digital Forensics Crime Lab, praises Seely’s leadership and confidence: “His leadership abilities and knowledge of IT systems and cybersecurity make him a perfect choice for the NCIS.”
After completing a digital forensics crime lab internship and attending the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) conference, Seely secured an interview with NCIS and began his career there in September 2024.
THE CENTER FOR ENDURANCE AND EXTREME HUMAN PERFORMANCE: Student Engagement and Involvement Meets Innovation
and Research
Samantha Aiken, Communication Studies, Professional and Technical Writing Certificate
At Utah Tech University’s Center for Endurance and Extreme Human Performance (CEEHP), Dr. Steve Bui and Dr. Milan Pantovic oversee student and community engagement as part of the center’s mission. CEEHP’s mission—conducting extreme human performance testing on endurance athletes offers an innovative path for students passionate about health sciences.
“The goal,” explains Pantovic, “is to involve students, to create internship opportunities, and to develop research in this center.” Students receive a blend of classroom theory and practical experience by conducting performance testing on real clients receiving CEEHP services. Once students have been trained on the tools, they can complete internships that involve formulating and executing research projects.
Bui explains that after students learn the tools, “they can go out on their own and try to formulate an idea that they want to run a research project on; and that’s what we’re trying to push for… giving them the experience to learn the tools to then help them be able to create a research project and run the project.”
The performance testing services at CEEHP are open to UT faculty, students, and community members. These services foster research development and innovation. Partnerships have been established to advance CEEHP’s mission and goals.
A collaborative project has been initiated with the Huntsman Cancer Institute, an NCI-designated cancer research facility and hospital in Salt Lake City. Additionally, VO2 Master, a company that provides equipment for measuring oxygen consumption during exercise, has been working with CEEHP.
CEEHP has also initiated a collaborative project with UT’s Engineering Department and is exploring a potential project with UT’s Center of Precision Medicine and Functional Genomics. These collaborations will expose students to diverse populations and the practical applications involved in extreme human performance testing.
“We can teach them the theory in the classroom for a very particular population,” states Bui. He adds that what is really, really important in the field is that students also learn the nuances and the variations in populations. There is no one population. Instead, Bui explains, populations are very individualized.
Exposure to both theory and practice provides students with valuable, unique, and innovative experiences.
UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY’S OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DOCTORAL PROGRAM: Empowering Students with Success
Samantha Aiken, Communication Studies, Professional and Technical Writing Certificate
Utah Tech University’s College of Health Sciences offers a wide range of competitive polytechnic programs that emphasize problem-solving, technology, innovation, and collaboration. In Fall 2024, UT launched its first doctoral degree program, the Occupational Therapy Doctorate, featuring a uniquely integrated curriculum that promotes active learning both in the classroom and with local community partners.
UT’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program was created to meet the growing demand, both in rural areas and globally, for occupational therapists with entry-level clinical doctoral degrees. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the profession will grow eleven percent from 2023 to 2033, with about 9,800 openings for occupational therapists each year.
The Occupational Therapy program’s curriculum is designed to help students develop core occupational therapy skills in the classroom and apply them in community settings. “This integration affords students in the program the opportunity to practice what they have learned in the classroom within real-life scenarios in the community,” says Dr. Sheila Longpré, the program director.
In partnership with the Utah Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) (a program focused on improving primary care access across Utah and providing scholars with essential training in ethics and clinical experience), UT’s Occupational Therapy Doctoral program enables students to become AHEC scholars.
“This partnership in learning,” states Longpré, “will provide students with an advantage on how to best serve clients in underserved areas such as rural areas.”
In collaboration with faculty who are experts in occupational therapy research for individuals, groups, and populations, students in this doctoral program are required to design, conduct, and disseminate a scholarly study. These faculty have experience in emerging practice areas, and several hold leadership positions at the local, state, national, and international levels.
UT’s Occupational Therapy Doctoral program emphasizes rural and population health, addressing the growing need for occupational therapists in rural areas and through telehealth services. The aging population and limited healthcare options in these communities have increased the demand for occupational therapists. Ranked among the top five healthcare jobs and in the top 20 best jobs overall, occupational therapy promises to be a rewarding career path.
Referring to the anticipated effect this program will have on UT’s academic reputation, Longpré says, “I envision the impact to be positive on many levels” and “with the success of this program, there may be additional opportunities to provide more doctoral programs within current departments on campus.”
Healthcare professionals continue to advocate for evidence-based practice methods, which involve using the best available research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences to make informed decisions about patient care.
As an evidence-based practice, occupational therapy provides patients with techniques to improve, rehabilitate, or maintain their motor skills and overall ability to perform everyday activities. An entry-level, doctorate-trained professional skilled in evidence-based practices will help advance this method in healthcare.
“The program is focused on preparing occupational therapists that are critical thinkers who go beyond solely relying on skill sets they have learned in school,” advocates Longpré.
UT’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program aims to empower students to become exceptional occupational therapists by emphasizing clinical reasoning and evidencebased practices, equipping them for professional success.
UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY OFFERS NEW HUMANITIES, PHILOSOPHY, AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES MAJOR
Madysen Seegmiller, Junior, Biology Natural Science Major, Creative Writing Minor
The History, Humanities, and Modern Languages Department now offers a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, Philosophy, and Religious Studies with an emphasis in either humanities or philosophy.
Students interested in exploring fundamental questions such as “What does it mean to be human?” will thrive in examining disciplines such as art, poetry, law, and social customs. The coursework synthesizes work in emerging technologies with historical approaches to help students develop critical, analytical, and reasoning skills.
With the launch of new programs come fresh opportunities. Dr. John Wolfe, Associate Professor of Philosophy, is excited about working with students on independent research projects. In the past, students taking classes in these fields have presented their research at national and international conferences and collaborated
DENTAL
with nonprofits. This new major will provide students with even more hands-on experiences essential for workforce preparation.
Students in the major will explore the history of western logical thought and the foundations of scientific inquiry. They will explore everything from religion to epistemology, and because of this, learn a language and reasoning framework to engage in interdisciplinary conversations. The major supports the polytechnic focus of the University because a polytechnic education isn’t simply about having an innovative learning experience. It is about sharing the products of innovation with a diverse human population. A polytechnic university needs humanists to connect innovation with our communities.
As Wolfe puts it, “Philosophy is the mortar that holds the building of the liberal arts together. Humanities gives the language needed for a comprehensive education.”
HYGIENE PROGRAM TAKES
ITS NEWLY UPGRADED MOBILE CLINIC TO THE COMMUNITY
Gaylen Bailey, Junior, English Major, Literary Studies Emphasis
Utah Tech’s Mobile Dental Hygiene Clinic provides students enrolled in the Dental Hygiene program a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience. The program has
operated a version of the mobile clinic since 2005 when it received a donated, converted RV fully equipped with a fourchair setup. The original RV served the local community for nearly two decades.
This year the program has been able to upgrade to a newly converted Mercedes Sprinter van. With this upgraded van, UT’s dental hygiene students will have a much easier time bringing smiles to the community.
According to instructor Andrea Parkinson, “The basic idea is to offer a win-win situation for our students and our community.” The mobile clinic allows students to work with a more diverse clientele than they would encounter in a traditional setting. Students serve those who might not otherwise visit a hygienist by providing care for locals where they work, attend school, or receive other public services.
START AGRITECH: Revolutionizing Agriculture in the Desert
Kylie Buchanan, Senior, Criminal Justice Major, Digital Defense and Security Emphasis, Professional and Technical Writing Minor
In April of 2024, Utah Tech University partnered with Arieli Capital and Frontier RNG to host the first START AgriTech Summit. The event, launched as a conference Summit at UT, aimed to help startups in the AgriTech field amplify their innovations. As a subset of UT’s commitment to developing DeserTech solutions, AgriTech emphasizes technology integration to address the unique challenges of desert living, such as water scarcity and sustainable crop production.
This summit would not have been possible without the collaborations and partnerships between UT and other entities beyond Arieli Capital and Frontier RNG, including the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, World Trade Center Utah, Exit Ventures, and the Haifa Group. Various staff and faculty members at UT were central in creating these relationships, involving many of the University’s deans and leaders such as Provost Michael Lacourse and Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships in her role, Cheryle Caplinger.
Caplinger cultivates “high-level industry relationships that advance UT’s mission and vision. Tied with innovation and entrepreneurship, I forged an alliance with Arieli Capital, Frontier RNG, and World Trade Center Utah. This led to the establishment of the START AgriTech Summit, which united startups, UT faculty and staff, and industry leaders to tackle the specific challenges in arid regions through DeserTech.”
Caplinger emphasizes that the program will provide students with opportunities for internships, hands-on research, and capstone projects focused on real-world applications of DeserTech solutions. This experience will help bridge the gap between academia and industry, giving students the skills and experiences needed to thrive in advancing fields of technology and sustainability.
Caplinger notes that Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams also played a key role in supporting the summit. Adams states, “Utah Tech and Arieli Capital’s partnership is a pivotal opportunity for DeserTech and AgriTech leaders in Utah, marking a significant stride in innovation and growth. The scale-up program will bring together global founders within Utah’s innovation ecosystem investors, founders, researchers, government leaders, and others.”
Some highlights from the summit included the TechHarvest Tour, where participants visited Milgro Farms and Dammeron Valley Winery to witness practical applications of technologies such as AgroVoltaic systems, which combine solar energy with crop production. Startups from countries such as Australia and Israel showcased technologies like nano-nutrient solutions, designed to optimize water usage and improve crop health in arid environments.
There was also the pitch event, where startups had the opportunity to present their solutions to global investors and industry leaders. Throughout the summit, participating startups received mentorship from Arieli Capital and Frontier RNG as they promoted their technologies to international
ROGER HALE: Innovative Music Education
Robert Cade Thompson, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis
If you go to YouTube and search “choir vocal warmups,” among the top results you will find several videos from Utah Tech’s own Dr. Roger Hale. What started in 2018 as a project to improve music education in India has since become a valuable global teaching resource. Today, Hale’s YouTube channel has over 120,000 subscribers and millions of views. But what makes all of this possible?
One key element of Hale’s success is his dedication to the solfege method, a centuries-old system for teaching note reading and pitch identification (think Do-Re-Mi from The Sound of Music). “Solfege makes smart singers,” Hale explains, highlighting its impact on his students. Although solfege is often associated with children’s education, Hale has been at the forefront of bringing it into the college setting. “I’ve found that after incorporating solfege here at the university, students are able to learn music,” he says, comparing the method to teaching his students how to fish, rather than simply giving them one. The use of the solfege method in college settings is gaining traction, thanks to Hale and other educators who see its long-term benefits for singers.
Hale’s work with solfege is not only transforming his students’ lives but is also spreading to schools and choirs worldwide. His YouTube videos, which include solfegebased vocal warmups, have become vital resources for music educators. “It still is the top video that comes up for choral warmups,” Hale notes, emphasizing its widespread popularity. This innovative use of solfege, combined with his approach to virtual teaching, has enabled Hale to work with choirs from South Africa, Norway, and beyond.
Much of Hale’s success comes from his willingness to blend traditional music education with modern technology. He taught himself video editing, built a professional website, and acquired various skills not typically expected of music educators. Reflecting on his journey, Hale says, “Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and talk with people about what interests them because all of a sudden, these ideas are going to start to explode, and you’re going to see connections and have a lot of fun” helping other people learn new skills.
DANCING ACROSS THE SEAS
Alyssa Bayles, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis
Utah Tech University students not only traveled internationally, but also shared their passion for dance. Since around 2019, dance majors have studied abroad in Florence, Italy, for a few weeks at a time. However, in this upcoming year, the study abroad opportunity for dance students will take place in Brazil.
This opportunity is paired with a dance travel studies course held before the trip, which helps prepare students for their time abroad. This course covers the country’s history, culture, and upcoming travel plans. Jenny Mair, a part-time Dance Instructor for the College of Arts, has served as the advisor for the Florence study abroad program. Mair explains that the program was inspired by a solo trip she took as a graduate student, which she later wanted to share with others. She said, “The main goal now for me is to connect students here with an international dance experience.” Mair explains, “Dance in Europe is different artistically” and traveling abroad gives dance students a “platform to grow, network and gain an understanding of dance around the world or at least in another culture.”
The 2024 summer study abroad group incorporated a dance film component into the experience, which Mair taught. This addition helped to incorporate the university’s motto “active learning. active life.” Mair explains,“The students each individually created their own dance film, and then as a group with all of the students from 16 other universities, we created a group dance film.” Mair shared that this group dance film was one of her favorite memories of the past trip. She also enjoyed the opportunity to take students to visit Venice.
This year, dance and film majors have the opportunity to take the storytelling and movement course, which will coincide with the study abroad in São Paulo, Brazil. Students on this trip will spend 20 days in Brazil, learning the stories of Brazilians and expanding their perspectives through first-hand experiences. Dr. JB Shilcutt and Jeremy Bolden, both Assistant Professors of Theatre, Dance, & Digital film, will lead the trip from June 8 to June 27, 2025. When asked what he is looking forward to, Bolden says, “Working with students, locals, and Dr. JB Shilcutt to create something, telling the stories of others, from the ground up, in an environment that is completely foreign and new both to the students and myself.”
UT ALUMNUS MAX CHRISTENSEN: Applying Skills and Passion to a Marketing Career
Alyssa Bayles, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis
Using the skills gained as a defensive lineman and a stellar multimedia student, Max Christensen launched his career at 360 ELEVATED after college. Now a Utah Tech University
alumnus, Christensen spent his university days making plays on the football field and hosting radio shows and podcasts. He also completed a marketing-focused internship with Dr. Nate Snow, Assistant Professor of Media Studies. Snow comments that Christensen “was really great at synthesizing all these different skills that we were teaching him to really go above and beyond what we were asking.”
Christensen graduated from Utah Tech in December 2022 with a Bachelor of Media Studies. He then continued his career as a marketing and sales specialist and sports radio host for the University. This experience led Christensen to his current role as a marketing director at 360 ELEVATED, where he has been able to apply his skills.
“Max had a lot of personal passion,” Snow says. “You could tell he was having so much fun with marketing because he brought so much passion to the work, and that passion inspired him to excel.”
STUDENTS LEARN THE VALUE OF VIRALITY
Buchanan, Senior, Criminal Justice Major, Digital Defense and Security Emphasis, Professional and Technical Writing Minor
The new Virality Lab class within Utah Tech University’s Digital Film program has opened doors for students looking to monetize viral content in today’s media landscape.
According to Patrick Smith, Assistant Professor of Digital Film who helped launch the program, the course focuses on creating an active, hands-on learning environment where students can experiment with digital media ideas that “might feel less appropriate or ‘too risky’ for a large-scale narrative production.”
Smith explains the inspiration for the course from the perspective of a professor focused on his students’ future when he says, “As educators, we see the importance of preparing our students for the realities of the modern economy, where
digital literacy and the ability to create engaging content are invaluable.” Smith continues, “Viral videos and trends are not just about entertainment; they are a powerful form of communication and a significant economic force. This course is designed to help students understand the mechanics behind these phenomena and how they can leverage them to build careers or further their personal brands.”
The class aims to guide students through the various aspects of viral media creation, including idea generation, video production, marketing, and audience engagement.
Kylie
SANDBOX: Opening the Door to Opportunity
Robert Cade Thompson, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis
One of the greatest challenges for university graduates is leaving school with a degree but lacking the experience employers expect for entry-level roles. To address this, Utah Tech’s Sandbox program equips students with both a degree and real-world experience. Think of it as an incubator integrated directly into degree programs like computer science, engineering, business, and design, where students can launch real tech companies for up to 18 credits toward their major.
Peter Fuller, Managing Director of Sandbox, describes it as “the zero-risk plan,” noting that students gain experience while learning. He explains, “Sandbox aims to give you both a degree and experience . . . Either your company takes off, or you’re no longer entry-level.” Sandbox companies have collectively reached a valuation of $95 million, and graduates who choose not to continue their ventures earn starting salaries that are 25 percent higher than those of non-Sandbox peers, demonstrating the program’s success.
Sandbox’s robust resources provide a unique entrepreneurial experience. Through a global classroom model, students work in person while professors connect remotely, fostering dynamic sessions and direct mentorship from experts, founders, and Sandbox alumni. Fuller highlights the program’s community impact, explaining that initiatives
like Sandbox are critical for “raising a new generation of entrepreneurs who are going to create jobs for local people.” This addresses a longstanding issue: many Utah Tech graduates move to larger cities for better opportunities, a trend that Sandbox aims to counteract by fostering highpotential local ventures.
Sandbox also partners with top employers to streamline job placement. Students’ applications go directly to hiring managers, bypassing traditional job boards and increasing their visibility. Fuller suggests this approach prepares students to “march into job interviews” already ahead of the curve, equipped with significant experience. The program culminates in a global demo day, where students can pitch their companies to investors, opening doors that few traditional classrooms can offer.
Sandbox is more than an innovative program—it’s a springboard that ensures that Utah Tech graduates don’t just enter the workforce but take the reins. By equipping students with hands-on experience, entrepreneurial skills, and valuable industry connections, Sandbox positions them to build impactful careers, whether they stay in St. George to support local growth or venture into broader markets. For these graduates, the journey from classroom to career begins with a solid foundation in both knowledge and experience.
UTAH TECH HOSTS SOUTHERN UTAH EARLY CHILDHOOD CONFERENCE
Addison Arnold, Senior, Interdisciplinary Studies Major, English and Family Studies Emphasis
Utah Tech University recently hosted the 23rd annual Southern Utah Early Childhood Conference, offering childcare providers and educators the opportunity to discuss and learn about current issues and trends in early childhood education. The conference brings together professionals from across the region and provides valuable opportunities for students in Utah Tech’s Early Childhood Associate Degree program.
Each year, the event highlights a specific theme addressing key elements of childcare. This year’s theme “Communication with Families and the Community” emphasized the importance of building strong connections between educators, families, and children. Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Education at Utah Tech Dr. Paula Kerchenski notes, “Providers are learning to connect better with families, which is crucial when working with children so everyone is on the same page.”
The annual conference not only benefits working professionals but also aligns with the goals of Utah Tech’s education program. Many attendees are recent graduates and current students who have the opportunity to network. The opening night of the conference is focused on leadership, allowing students to meet with childcare providers who are
actively hiring and fostering relationships that may lead to employment. According to Kerchenski, this is a key aspect of the conference’s value.
In addition to networking opportunities, the Early Childhood Conference serves as a platform to raise awareness about the need for more qualified childcare professionals. The field of early childhood education is still growing and evolving, with many preschools and daycares hiring individuals with limited formal training. However, events like this conference can help advance the profession by promoting higher standards and formal education for those working with young children.
Kerchenski explains that the goal of the conference “is to make early childhood education a respected profession.” As awareness of the importance of having trained professionals in the field increases, so does the demand for qualified educators. This training benefits both the community and the children, who receive higher-quality care. Overall, Southern Utah’s Early Childhood Conference plays a crucial role in advancing the field of early childhood education by providing professional development opportunities for both current and future childcare providers.
UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY HOSTS 2ND ANNUAL JUANITA BROOKS UTAH
HISTORY CONFERENCE
Kylie Buchanan, Senior, Criminal Justice Major, Digital Defense and Security Emphasis, Professional and Technical Writing Minor
This past April, Utah Tech University hosted the 40th Annual Juanita Brooks Lecture Series in partnership with the 2nd Annual Juanita Brooks Utah History Conference. The lecture series and conference were co-sponsored by the Utah Tech Library and the O.C. Tanner Foundation. The Juanita Brooks Lecture Series, established in 1984, is an annual event where scholars present on topics that would have been of interest to Brooks, who was an English instructor and the Dean of Women at Utah Tech University (then known as Dixie Junior College) from 1925-1933. The lectures focus on subjects central to Brooks’ legacy as a historian and scholar, including Mormon history, the pioneers, and twentieth century polygamy.
The conference featured a range of presentations, from a keynote address by Laurie Maffly-Kipp, Archer Alexander Distinguished Professor in the Humanities at Washington University in St. Louis, to some of Utah Tech’s own faculty. Assistant Professor of English Amanda Scott states, “The 2nd Annual Juanita Brooks Utah History Conference was such a joy to be a part of. I enjoyed the sessions and learning from historians in the region. I also presented a paper on Maurine Whipple’s 1941 novel The Giant Joshua and Juanita Brooks’ impact as a mentor to Whipple. This conference was my first experience in local research, and I hope to be involved in future efforts within this same area of study.”
Caitlinn Grimm, Interim Special Collections Librarian/ Archivist, who will lead next year’s lecture series, encourages students and community members to remain engaged in the lectures and Brooks’ legacy. “The lecture is free and open to the St. George and surrounding communities, as well as Utah Tech students, faculty, and staff. It offers a chance for community members (new and long-standing) to come together and learn more about the region.”
The Juanita Brooks Utah History Conference will not be held on campus next year. However, the lecture series will remain part of the University, inviting students and community members to learn more about Juanita Brooks and her lasting impact on Southern Utah.
INNOVATION LABS ADVANCES TECH PROJECTS
ACROSS UTAH
Owen Johnson, Senior, English Technical Writing Major, Creative Writing Minor
The Utah Legislature recently partnered with Utah Tech University to help fund a new program called Innovation Labs. This initiative is a tool for the Executive Branch and the Department of Technology Services to help develop and commercialize tech projects. Overall, the program is designed to be a professional initiative funded by the State of Utah to update and innovate older technology systems.
Innovation Labs is currently managing three main projects. Their newest project, Stormwater, was developed to quickly document whether a construction site has been impacted by rain. This ensures construction sites remain safe for workers, as excessive erosion from rain can destabilize new structures. Previously, the state had to send inspectors to each site after rainfall, but with this application, inspectors can be notified where they are needed most.
The second project is for the Division of Alcohol and Business Services. Innovation Labs was asked to design an inventory management system. Jason Pitts, Director of Innovation Labs, explains that before the project, “you’d have to walk up and down the aisles to see what was out, and then go into the back and see if you had anything to restock it.” He continues to explain how DABS employees previously relied on their personal cell phones and scraps of paper to remember what needed restocking. Now, employees have an application that notifies them when and what they need to restock and even provides a map of where to find the item. The students at Innovation Labs are also working on a small robot that goes through the aisles each night to catch anything missed by the inventory manager. The application is being rolled out in four to five stores per week and is expected to be in use at every liquor store in the state by the end of the year.
Finally, Parkspass, which was the first initiative at Innovation Labs, made entry tickets easily accessible to State Park visitors. If the ticket stations were unmanned, visitors couldn’t get change, so they needed exactly $15 to purchase a day pass. Parkspass was developed to resolve this problem. Visitors can now purchase day and annual passes online and keep them readily accessible on a mobile app. Thanks to Parkspass, Utah became the first state to offer a digital annual pass. Recently, the federal government invited the team to discuss creating a similar system for national parks. The hardworking students in Innovation Labs who are working on the Parkspass project hope to inspire and support similar projects across other states.
Pitts expresses how student driven these projects are, explaining that students are involved in every aspect of development and management. Students code, design, meet with clients, and handle physical tasks. Stormwater, DABS, and Parkspass are projects imagined, created, and managed by students.
Ryann Anderson, a web developer and 2022 UT graduate, still works for Innovation Labs. She says, “The environment is very fun and very team oriented. Everyone wants to help and make this as successful as possible.” Innovation Labs currently has nine students and 12 employees, most of whom are UT graduates, all working hard to bring innovation to the State of Utah.
UT’S HUMAN-TECH SPEAKER SERIES: Examining Humans at the
Center of a Tech-Focused World
Jake Harber, Senior, Communication Major
As part of Utah Tech University’s polytechnic mission, the Human-Tech Speaker Series, led by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Utah Tech, emphasizes that humans remain at the center of an increasingly tech-focused world, underscoring the University’s commitment to placing human experience at the forefront.
The Human-Tech Speaker Series kicked off in February 2022 with a visit from Scott Hartley, a venture capitalist in New York and author of The Fuzzy and the Techie: Why The Liberal Arts Will Rule The Digital World. In addition to delivering his keynote address, “A Human-Centered Approach to ProblemSolving: How Do We Make It Real?” Hartley spent the day engaging in small group discussions across campus with faculty, staff, and students, touring Atwood Innovation Plaza, and learning about the University and its mission.
Initially setting a goal to host one speaker per year starting in 2022, Utah Tech University has exceeded its goal by welcoming five different speakers thus far, including Hartley. The other speakers who have visited UT are Adam Dorr from RethinkX, Jennifer Keating, co-author of AI and Humanity, Sylvester Johnson, director of Virginia Tech University’s Humanities Center, and Paul Mozur, global technology correspondent for The New York Times
In November 2023, Johnson delivered a lecture titled “The Future of Talent & the Fourth Industrial Revolution,” highlighting the ever-increasing importance of comprehensive education. He went so far as to claim that Utah Tech and its system—namely low-cost, integrated learning, and experiential opportunities—represent the future of higher education.
In October 2024, Mozur brought a global perspective with his presentation, “The Killer Robots Have Arrived: The Actions and Ethics of AI in a Changed World.” He discussed drones, AI, and the Russia-Ukraine crisis, focusing primarily on the ethics of warfare, particularly the implications of lines of code replacing humans on the front lines.
Beyond their lectures, each guest speaker has had the opportunity to interact with UT’s campus community. Mozur spent an hour with six students from the Institute of Politics and six from an AI and Politics class, giving them a chance to chat and ask questions.
The Human-Tech Speaker Series is set to continue for the next few years, providing both students and community members with valuable insights into what a polytechnic university is and our place as humans in an evolving technological landscape.
INNOVATION GUIDANCE AND SOLUTIONS AT UTAH TECH
Atwood Innovation Plaza at Utah Tech University is the premier entrepreneurship and innovation center for Southern Utah. In support of the Plaza, Wayne Provost, Wyatt Anderson, and Jeff Stewart recently filed a trademark application for “Bumpability,” granted on September 10, 2024, and they gifted the trademark to the University. The Class 36 trademark states that the Plaza provides incubation services including “workspace and social areas for collaboration between students, freelancers, start-ups, existing businesses, and nonprofits.”
Last year, Atwood Innovation Plaza served 598 individuals, including 159 new clients, who received advice not only on filing patents, copyrights, and trademarks, but also on researching, launching, and growing their businesses.
JULY 2023-JUNE 2024 ATWOOD INNOVATION PLAZA ACTIVITIES
GRANTS
GRANTS (CONTINUED)
SUBAWARD - EDA Grant Future Ready Utah Worksite Ecosystem Project
SUBAWARD - Seattle University - EPIIC
SUBAWARDUniversity of Utah - NASA
SUBAWARDUniversity of Utah - NASA
U.S. Dept. of Education - Title III
U.S. Dept. of Education
EPIIC Increasing our Innovation SCOREs: Symbiotic Collaboration of Regional Ecosystems
Utah NASA Space Grant Consortium National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program Opportunities in NASA STEM FY 20-25
UTU Harbinger CubeSat for Utah Water Management Mission (Phase 1)
Creating Affordable and Accessible Pathways (AAP) to Success: Integrating OER and Supplemental Instruction in General Education Courses
Kyle Wells, Professor of Finance and Cheryle Caplinger, Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships/Interim Director of Innovation Plaza
Cheryle Caplinger, Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships / Interim Director of Atwood Innovation Plaza
Samuel Tobler, Professor of Physics and Monty Kennedy, PT Instructor of Engineering
David Christensen, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering/Dept Chair and Monty Kennedy, PT Instructor of Engineering
Helen Tate, Associate Provost for Academic Success / Dean of University College
- TRIO Student Support Services Utah Tech's Student Support Services Chris Taylor, Director of Student Support Services
U.S. Dept.
Utah Dept. of Cultural & Community Engagement
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS
ACCOUNTING & FINANCE
ESPLIN, DERRICK D., Associate Professor of Accounting. Esplin, D. D. (2023). LIFO Accounting Distortions in the Oil & Gas Industry. Oil, Gas & Energy Quarterly.
GREENMAN, CINDY L., Associate Professor of Accounting. Greenman, C. L., Esplin, D. D., & Richards, J. W. (2024, March). Implementing OER in the Accounting Curriculum. Teach and Learn with OER. Virtual: Utah Academic Library Consortium - Utah Higher Education Network. Healy, C. R., Greenman, C. L., Davis, K. S., & Zupancic, K. (2023). Penalties for Fraud in the Pharmaceutical Industry: A Financial and Reputational Analysis. Journal of Accounting, Ethics & Public Policy, JAEPP, 24, 21. Greenman, C. L. (2023). LIFO Accounting Distortions in the Oil & Gas Industry. Oil, Gas & Energy Quarterly. Greenman, C. L. (2023). Thinking Caps On! Avoid Scholarship Fraud. Fraud Magazine.
ZUPANCIC, KAYLEE, Instructor of the Practice in Accounting. Healy, C. R., Greenman, C. L., Davis, K. S., & Zupancic, K. (2023). Penalties for Fraud in the Pharmaceutical Industry: A Financial and Reputational Analysis. Journal of Accounting, Ethics & Public Policy, JAEPP, 24, 21.
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
ANDERSON, VERL A., Professor of Business Management. Anderson, V. A., & Caldwell, C. (n.d.). Love: The Heart of Leadership, The Moral Obligation of Leaders. Graziadio Business Review, 22, 6. Anderson, V. A. (n.d.). Top Hat platform for International Business. New York: Cengage. Anderson, V. A. (2024). Business Introduction by Ebert. Los Angeles, CA: Sage College Publishing. Anderson, V. A. (2024, March). Fundamentals of Human Resource Management by Talya Bauer. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Vantage Courseware. Anderson, V. A. (2024, March). International Business by Weng.
New York: Cengage. Anderson, V. A. (2024, March). Introduction to Business by Heidi Neck. Sage Vantage Courseware. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Vantage Courseware. Anderson, V. A. (2024). Management by C. Neck. Los Angeles, CA: Sage College Publishing. Caldwell, C. (2024). Quiet Quitting and Quiet ThrivingFlourishing in the Modern Organization. (V. A. Anderson, Ed.) (p. 336). New York: Nova Science Publications.
GRAYSON, KRISTY C., Associate Professor of Marketing. Grayson, K. C., & Davis, K. S. (2024, Spring). Moonlighting Madness: Mixing Student Learning with Paid Consulting. 2024 Utah Academy Conference. University of Utah: Utah Academy of Sciences Arts and Letters. Grayson, K. C., Davis, K. S., & Garner, P. D. (2023, November). Innovation in Applied Learning. Mixing Student Learning with Paid Consulting.”. Mountain Plains Business Conference 2023. Utah Tech University: Mountain Plains Business Association.
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
OLSEN, DAVID HAROLD, Assistant Professor of Information Systems and Analytics. Abu-Khadra, H., & Olsen, D. (2023). Toward Automating Shredding Nonprofit XML Files: The Case of IRS Form 990 Data. Journal of Information Systems, 37, 169–188. Greenman, C. L., Esplin, D. D., & Olsen, D. H. (2023). LIFO Accounting Distortions in the Oil & Gas Industry. Oil, Gas & Energy Quarterly.
MANAGEMENT & MARKETING
DAVIS, KATHRYN S., Associate Professor of Marketing. Grayson, K. C., & Davis, K. S. (2024, Spring). Moonlighting Madness: Mixing Student Learning with Paid Consulting. 2024 Utah Academy Conference. University of Utah: Utah Academy of Sciences Arts and Letters. Grayson, K. C., Davis, K. S., & Garner, P. D. (2023, November). Innovation in Applied Learning. Mixing Student Learning with Paid Consulting.” Mountain Plains Business Conference 2023. Utah Tech University: Mountain Plains Business Association. Healy, C. R., Greenman, C. L., Davis, K. S., &
Zupancic, K. (2023). Penalties for Fraud in the Pharmaceutical Industry: A Financial and Reputational Analysis. Journal of Accounting, Ethics & Public Policy, JAEPP, 24, 21.
HEALY, CHRIS R., Assistant Professor of Business Management. Healy, C. R., Thorpe, M., Twitchell, M., & Busk, D. (2023, February). Employee draught: A local situation. 27th Annual “What’s Up Down South” Economic Summit. Dixie Center, St. George, UT: St. George Area Economic Development. Business Review, 22, 6. Anderson, V. A. (n.d.). Top Hat platform for International Business. New York: Cengage. Anderson, V. A. (2024). Business Introduction by Ebert. Los Angeles, CA: Sage College Publishing. Anderson, V. A. (2024, March). Fundamentals of Human Resource Management by Talya Bauer. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Vantage Courseware. Anderson, V. A. (2024, March). International Business by Weng. New York: Cengage. Anderson, V. A. (2024, March). Introduction to Business by Heidi Neck. Sage Vantage Courseware. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Vantage Courseware. Anderson, V. A. (2024). Management by C. Neck. Los Angeles, CA: Sage College Publishing. Caldwell, C. (2024). Quiet Quitting and Quiet ThrivingFlourishing in the Modern Organization. (V. A. Anderson, Ed.) (p. 336). New York: Nova Science Publications.
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
EDUCATION
HAMMOND-TODD, MICHAEL A., Assistant Professor of Education. HammondTodd, M. A. (2023). Power of (STEM)2 Podcast Series 4 (5 episodes). Podcast. Hammond-Todd, M. A. (2023). The Power of (STEM)2 Podcast Series 2 (6 Episodes). Podcast. Hammond-Todd, M. A. (2023). The Power of (STEM)2 Podcast Series 3 (5 episodes). Podcast. Hammond-Todd, M. A. (2024). Power of (STEM)2 Podcast Series 5 (6 episodes). Podcast. Hammond-Todd, M. A. (2024, April). A developmental model for AI in Science Education (AISE) - Educational
opportunities and challenges for teachers and students. Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation & Creativity. UT - St George: College of Education.
PAK, B., Assistant Professor of Education. Cavanna, J., Pak, B., & Jackson, B. (2024). Make Your Number Talks More Ambitious. Mathematics Teacher: Learning and Teaching Pre-K–12. Jackson, B., Pak, B., & Cavanna, J. (2024). Number talks create ownership in math learning. Principal, 103, 28–33. Pak, B., Cavanna, J., & Jackson, B. (2023). The relationship between number talks and ambitious instruction: learning from beginning teachers. Mathematical Teaching and Learning. Pak, B. (2023). Understanding Whether and How Prospective Teachers Support Elementary Students to Compare Multiple Strategies in Their Enacted Number Talks. Journal of the Korean Society of Mathematical Education Series D: Research in Mathematical Education. Pak, B., Hummer, J., Sturgill, D., & Borowski, R. (2024). Approaches to Integration: How are we preparing preservice teachers to teach STEM? 2024 Annual AMTE (Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators) Conference. Orlando, Florida: Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators. Pak, B. (2024, February). Go beyond Reporting Strategies in Number Talks! Comparing Strategies Is an Answer but How? 2024 Annual AMTE (Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators) Conference. Orlando, FL. Hummer, J., Borowski., R., Pak, B., & Sturgill, D. (2024). Preparing preservice teachers to teach STEM: Various Approaches to Integration. American Educational Research Association. Pak, B., Colen, J., Cho, H., Kim, J., yeo, S., & Park, J. (2024, February). Teachers’ Talk Moves: How Are They Associated with CCSSM’s Standards for Mathematical Practices? 2024 Annual AMTE (Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators) Conference. Orlando, FL. Hummer, J., Pak, B., Sturgill, D., & Borowski., R. (2023). From Discipline Specific to Transdisciplinary: How are we preparing pre-service teachers to integrate STEM? NCTM 2023 Research Conference. Dr. Byungeun Pak. Dr. Pak, B., Cavanna, J., & Jackson, B. (2023). Significant Features of Number Talks as Perceived by Prospective Teachers. 45th
Annual Meeting of the North American Chapter of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education (PME-NA). Reno, NV: North American Chapter of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education. Yang, X., & Pak, B. (2023). Pedagogical Challenges of Immigrant Minority Teacher Educators: An Autoethnography Study. MOFET’s 8th International Conference on Teacher Education. Han, S. B., Rosencrans, B., & Pak, B. (2024). Utilize Number Talks to Share Authority in the Mathematics Classroom. the 15th International Congress on Mathematical Education. Sydney, Australia. Han, S. B., & Pak, B. (2024). Preservice Teachers’ Use of Teacher Moves That Provide Sense-making Opportunities to Students When They Implement Number Talks. Psychology of Mathematics Education Conference (PME 4. New Zealand. Pak, B., & Han, B. (2024). Novice Teachers’ Number Talks Promoting Chances of Students’ Sense-making. 51th Anniversary for the RCML Annual Conference. Columbia, South Carolina. Hummer, J., Sturgill, D., Pak, B., & Borowski, R. (2024). Are we teaching in silos? Approaches to STEM integration in methods courses. The 15th International Congress on Mathematical Education. Sydney, Australia.
FAMILY STUDIES & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
KERCHENSKI, PAULA F., Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Education.Kerchenski, P. F. (2024, April). Time-In: Strategies to help with our challenging stars. 23rd Annual Southern Utah Early Childhood Conference. St. George, UT: Care About Child Care. Kerchenski, P. F. (2023). Getting children with disabilities active in a digital world. National Association for the Education of Young Children National Conference. Nashville, TN: National Association for the Education of Young Children.
INTERDISCIPLINARY ARTS & SCIENCES
CROMWELL, ALEX J., Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. Cromwell, A., & Wanis-St. John, A. (2024, April). Challenging the Flawed Foundations of Post-Liberal Peacebuilding Scholarship.
International Studies Association 2024 Annual Convention. San Francisco, CA: International Studies Association. Cromwell, A. (2024, April). Dialoguing on Liberal and Post-Liberal Approaches to Peacebuilding. International Studies Association 2024 Annual Convention. San Francisco, CA: International Studies Association. Windi, A., Balaj, D., & Cromwell, A. (2024, January). Turning Pain into Purpose. Tuesday’s Children Project Common Bond Event: Turning Pain into Purpose. Virtual Event: Tuesday’s Children. Cromwell, A. (2024, April). What Does Peace Studies Mean in 2023 and Beyond? International Studies Association 2024 Annual Convention. San Francisco, CA: International Studies Association. Cromwell, A. (2023, November). Peacebuilding and Peace Education in the Israel/Gaza War. Shaping the Arab World Conference. Harvard University, Graduate School of Education.
STUDENT SUCCESS SERVICES
YULE, JEFF V., Professor of Biology. Yule, J. V. (2023, September). Dual review of Ancient Sea Reptiles: Plesiosaurs, Ichthyosaurs, Mosasaurs, and More by Darren Naish. Washington (DC): Smithsonian Books. 2023 and The Princeton Field Guide to Mesozoic Sea Reptiles by Gregory S. Paul. Princeton (New Jersey): Princeton University Press. 2022. The Quarterly Review of Biology. University of Chicago Press in collaboration with Stony Brook University. Yule, J. V. (n.d.). Review of Amy Tan’s book The Backyard Bird Chronicles (2024). Quarterly Review of Biology.
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
DENTAL HYGIENE
ARMSTRONG, BRENDA L., Associate Professor of Dental Hygiene / Dept Chair. Armstrong, B. L. (n.d.). Student Posters. UT Research Symposium, Southern Utah Dental Hygienists’ Association. Various. Armstrong, B. L. (n.d.). Evidence Based Clinical Teaching. Utah Tech Dental Hygiene Faculty Calibration. Armstrong, B. L. (n.d.). Pinning Talk 2024.
SCHOLARLY
Utah Tech Dental Hygiene Program Pining. Armstrong, B. L. (2024). Day at the Capital 2024 - Change Agents. Utah Dental Hygienists’ Association Day at the Capital. Salt Lake City. Armstrong, B. L. (n.d.). Blueprint for Success: Dental Hygiene Curriculum Management and Program Assessment. DIRECT Leadership Experience for Program Directors. online: Educators Platform. Armstrong, B. L. (n.d.). Posture Perfect: Ergonomics Assessment 2023. Session taught during Clinic IV minilabs. Taylor Health Sciences.
ATKINSON, JESSICA., Assistant Professor of Dental Hygiene. Atkinson, J. (2024, March). AAP Classifications of Health, Gingivitis, Periodontitis, and Implants. Today’s RDH Virtual CE Live Event. Online: Today’s RDH. Atkinson, J. (2023, October). Intentional Instrumentation. Today’s RDH Virtual CE Live Event. Online: Today’s RDH. Atkinson, J. (2023, November). Medical Emergencies: Prevention to Intervention. CE Zoom. Online: CE Zoom. Atkinson, J. (2023, December). Your Role in Infection Control. CE Zoom. Online: CE Zoom. Atkinson, J. (2023, June). Ethics in Dentistry: Building Character and Courage. CE Zoom. Online: CE Zoom. Atkinson, J. (2023, July). Oral Health from Infancy to Adolescents. CE Zoom. Online: Haleon. Atkinson, J. (2023, July). Raiders of the Lost Art: Mastering Instrumentation Techniques. RDH Under One Roof/RDHUOR Conference. Nashville Tennessee. Atkinson, J. (2024, July). In Our Advanced Instrumentation Era-A Swift Journey to Advanced Instrumentation. RDH Under One Roof/RDHUOR Conference. Denver, CO.
HUNT, KALI DANIELLE., Associate Professor of Dental Hygiene. Hunt, K. D. (2023). Compassionate Care for Individuals with Disabilities. Cerritos, California.
WELCH, LISA M., Professor of Dental Hygiene. Welch, L. M. (2023). The Patient with a Blood Disorder Ch 62. In Wilkins’ Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist 14th edition. Jones and Bartlett Learning. Welch, L. M., & Hawkins, A. (2023, February). Undergraduate Research Student: An Investigation into the
Efficacy of Dental Hygiene Practice using a Virtual Reality Application Compared with Traditional Practice Methods. Utah Conference for Undergraduate Research. Salt Lake City: UCUR.
HEALTH & HUMAN PERFORMANCE
AHN, JIN WOO, Assistant Professor of Recreation and Sports Management. Ahn, J. W., & Ko, Y. (2024, October). The role of sensitization and habituation in sport spectatorship: A case of sport Augmented Reality Broadcasting. Sport Marketing Association. St. Petersburg/FL: Sport Marketing Association. Ahn, J. W., Lee, J. S., & Wann, D. (2023). They saw a game! Impact of consumers’ self-serving bias on moral disengagement and subsequent tolerant responses toward athlete scandals. Sport Marketing Quarterly, 32, 207–222. Ahn, J. W., & Ko, Y. (2024). Sport spectators’ psychological and behavioral responses toward an augmented reality (AR) broadcasting: The role of sensitization and habituation. Journal of Sport Management. Ahn, J. W. (2023, August). Enhancing the Experience of Watching Sports Matches by Predicting the Match Outcome: The Roles of Curiosity and Sports Involvement. Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. Washington/DC: AEJMC.
HYLAND, DILLON E., Assistant Professor of Athletic Training / Clinical Education Coordinator. Hyland, D. E. (2024, Spring). Utilizing Generative AI to Facilitate Literature Reviews with Healthcare Students. UT Teaching and Learning Conference. Utah Tech University: UT Teaching and Learning Committee/ Center for Teaching and Learning. Hyland, D. E. (2023, December). Get Things Done, Faster: Leveraging AI Tools in your Practice. Utah Athletic Trainers Association Annual Conference. Utah Tech University: Utah Athletic Trainers Association.
LOVELL, JOSEPH, Associate Professor of Recreation and Sports Management. Lovell, J. (2024, February). Curriculum, Internships, and Mentoring. Southern Utah Recreation and Park Association Meeting. Washington, Utah:
Utah Recreation and Park Association. Lovell, J., Ficklin, T. K., & Ahn, J. W. (2023). Master of Science: Sport Management. Utah Tech University. Lovell, J. (2022). London: Sport and Culture Study Abroad. UT Study Abroad.
PANTOVIC, MILAN, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science. Pantovic, M. (2024). Exploring the Influence of Inter-Trial Interval on the Assessment of Short-Interval Intracortical Inhibition. Bioengineering, 19. Pantovic, M., Lidstone, D. E., de Albuquerque, L. L. L., Wilkins, E. W., Munoz, I. A., Aynlender, D. G., … Poston, B. (2023). Cerebellar Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Applied Over Multiple Days Does Not Enhance Motor Learning of a Complex Overhand Throwing Task in Young Adults. Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 10. Pantovic, M., Boss, R., Noorda, K. J., Premyanov, M. I., Aynlender, D. G., Wilkins, E. W., … Poston, B. (2023). The Influence of Different Inter-Trial Intervals on the Quantification of Intracortical Facilitation in the Primary Motor Cortex. Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 10. de Albuquerque, L. L. L., Pantovic, M., Clingo, M., Fischer, K., Jalene, S., Landers, M., … Poston, B. (2023). A Single Application of Cerebellar Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Fails to Enhance Motor Skill Acquisition in Parkinson’s Disease: A Pilot Study. Biomedicines, 11. Pantovic, M., Scott, K., Bankhead, D., Mooney, K., Babcock, K., Salcedo, C., … Jiang, B. (2024, April). Acute Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Motor Skill Learning in Young Adults. UT Research Symposium. St. George.
VICKERS, TIFFANY D., Assistant Professor of Population Health / Program Director. Vickers, T. D. (2023, Summer). From the Classroom to Career: What Role Does Micro credentialing Play? Polytechnic Summit. Utah Tech University: Utah Tech University. Vickers, T. D. (2024). Healthcare Quality and Safety. Utah Tech University. Vickers, T. D. (2024). Management of Healthcare Organizations and Strategy. Utah Tech University. Vickers, T. D. (2024). Research Methodologies in Healthcare. Utah Tech University. Vickers, T. D. (2024). Biostatistics and Epidemiology. Utah Tech University. Vickers, T. D. (2024).
Health Determinants & Disparities. Utah Tech University.
HEALTHCARE, DIAGNOSTICS, AND THERAPEUTICS
HUSSELBEE, GAYLE C., Assistant Professor of Medical Laboratory Science / Program Director. Husselbee, G. C. (2023, November). Immunohematology (Blood Bank) Served as a mentor for the senior students. Utah Tech University.
WILLIAMS, ALISSA, Professor of Radiography. Williams, A. (2024). Read the Room: Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace. Utah Society of Radiologic Technologists, Spring Conference. Ogden, UT.
NURSING
CHEW, JULIE C., Professor of Nursing. Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., Balogh, L., Bolden, J. I., Brower, C., Bruce, B. S., … Yu, K.-W. (2024, April). Dance in Concert: Innervations, Reflections of Self. Eccles Main Stage. St. George, Utah: Utah Tech Dance Program.
FAWNS, TRACY, Associate Professor of Nursing. Fawns, T. (2023). OER: EvidenceBased Practice & Research Methodologies: A Scaffolded Approach to Review of Evidence Poster for the Prelicensure BSN Student. Pressbooks.
LEWIS, CAROLYN, Assistant Professor of Nursing. Lewis, C. C. (2023, October). Developing Nursing Student Clinical Judgment Skills Through Active Learning Simulation Experiences. Utah Simulation Coalition Annual Fall Conference. Draper, UT: Utah Simulation Coalition. Lewis, C. (2023, June). Developing Nursing Students’ Clinical Judgment Through Active Learning in the Simulation Lab. Global Polytechnic Conference. Utah Tech University Campus, St. George, UT: Global Polytechnic Education Alliance.
REBER, CYNTHIA W., Assistant Professor of Nursing. Reber, C. W. (2023, April). The Impact of Simulation on Self-Efficacy and Intent to
Counsel Patients About Vaping. WIN 56th Annual Communicating Nursing Research Conference. Tucson, AZ: Western Institute of Nursing. Reber, C. W., & Lanners, E. L. (2024, April). Student-Created Patient Case Studies for Licensure Exam Preparation and Open Educational Resource (OER) Publication: A Collaborative Project. 8th Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation, and Creativity. Utah Tech: UT. Reber, C. W. (2024).
Significant Curriculum Creation for P-BSN Simulation Courses. P-BSN Simulation Courses.
COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES
APPLIED SOCIOLOGY & CRIMINAL JUSTICE
HAFOKA, MOANA P., Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice. Hafoka, M. P. (2024).
Using the Past to Guide the Future: Criminal Deportee (Re)integration in a New Homeland. International Journal for Crime, Justice and Social Democracy.
PHELAN, KOREY S., Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice. Phelan, K. S. (2024). The Realities of Crime and the Myths of True Crime. Phelan, K. S. (2023). Understanding the Effects of Sexual Victimization on Substance Use Among American Indian Youth: Exploring the Moderating Effects of Cultural Identity. Journal of Crime and Criminal Behavior, 3, 353–381.
COMMUNICATION
HALL, ROBERT, Assistant Professor of Communication. Hall, R. D., & Wente-Hahn, D. L. (2024). Access and Accommodation and Public Speaking. In The Routledge Handbook of Public Speaking Research and Theory. Routledge.
ORTIZ, ERIN, Associate Professor of Communication. Ortiz, E. (2024, April). Community Perspectives on Tourism: Assessing Quality of Life in a Gateway Community. Town of Springdale Research. Springdale, UT.
SNOW, NATE S., Assistant Professor of Communication. Snow, N. S. (2024). Social Media content production for The Artist Showcase. Instagram. Snow, N. S. (2023, November). Posthuman Ecoscapes: Synthetic Materiality and Distributed Cognition in Southeast Asian Animation. Posthuman Southeast Asia: Ecocritical Entanglements Across Species Boundaries. Chiang Rai, Thailand: ASLE/ASEAN. Snow, N. S. (2024, July). Blurring the Border of Viewer and Viewed: Cinesthetic Bodies in Aardman Animations. EUPOP 2024. Tallinn, Estonia: European Popular Culture Association. Snow, N. S. (2023). The New Poetics of Computer Animation. In Reimagining the Humanities. Lafayette, Indiana: Parlor Press. Snow, N. S. (2024). Posthuman Ecoscapes: Synthetic Materiality and Distributed Cognition in Southeast Asian Animation. In Posthuman Southeast Asia: Ecocritical Entanglements Across Species Boundaries. Lanham, Maryland: Lexington Books.
STEIN, JAMES B., Assistant Professor of Communication. Mongeau, P. A., Stein, J. B., Generous, M., Bednarchik, L., & van Raalte, L. (n.d.). Panel Title: Betwixt and Between: Considering and Investigating Ambiguous Relationships. Stein, J. B., Rios, L., & Moore, B. (2024). Analyzing couples’ shared and individual social networks: A duocentric approach. Stein, J. B., Rios, L., & Moore, B. (2024). Using dyadic data to probe actorpartner effects of network-based variables on relational perceptions and communication. Stein, J. B. (2023). The Social Network and Partners Study 2.0 grant.
ENGLISH
BACABAC, FLORENCE ELIZABETH, Professor of English - Professional and Technical Writing. Bacabac, F. E. (2023). “Advancing Global Englishes through Digital Media in Professional Writing.” In Proceedings of the 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit, Technology Talent: Advancing a Comprehensive and Global Strategy, Curiosity:
Interdisciplinary Journal of Research and Innovation. Curiosity: Interdisciplinary Journal of Research and Innovation. Bacabac, F. E. (2023, August). “Creating a Classroom Community and Lesson Planning.” Graduate Assistant (GA) “Bootcamp” Pre-Semester Training. Holland Centennial Commons 470. Bacabac, F. E. (2023, October). “Toward an Inclusive and Egalitarian Campus Community: A Reflective Account”. 13th Biennial International Feminism(s) and Rhetoric(s) Conference. Atlanta, Georgia. Bacabac, F. E. (2023, July). Composing Digital Vision Boards. eSmart Camp for Girls. Snow Building 144. Bacabac, F. E. (2023, June). “Advancing Global Englishes through Digital Media in Professional Writing.” 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit. Utah Tech University, St. George, Utah: Global Polytechnic Education Alliance.
CRENSHAW, CHERI R., Professor of English - Professional and Technical Writing. Crenshaw, C. R., Burgess, C., Creer, M., Hopkinson, L., Huntsman Baldwin, R., McCuistion, K., … Pack, M. (2024, June). From QR Codes and AI Writing to Christmas Sales and Vampire Blogs: Grad Students in a Digital Create-Your-Own-Class Experience. Computers and Writing 2024. Fort Worth, TX: Texas Christian University.
HAENDIGES, JIM A., Professor of EnglishProfessional and Technical Writing. Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., Balogh, L., Bolden, J. I., Brower, C., Bruce, B. S., … Yu, K.-W. (2024, April). Dance in Concert: Innervations, Reflections of Self. (J. A. Haendiges, Ed.), Eccles Main Stage. St. George, Utah, USA: Utah Tech Dance Program.
HOPE, LACY C., Assistant Professor of English - Rhetoric and Composition. Hope, L. C. (2024, June). Coalitions and Capitalism: Considering the Limitations Placed on Technical Writers as Laborers. ATTW 2024. Virtual: Association of Teachers of Technical Writing. Hope, L. C. (2024, February). Student as Data; Student as Commodity. Digital Humanities Utah 8. Salt Lake City, UT: Digital Humanities Utah. Hope, L. C. (2023, June). Fighting Planned Obsolescence: Using and Creating Open Resources in the Technical Writing Classroom to Amplify Active Learning and Reduce E-waste.
GPEA Polytechnic Summit 2023. Utah Tech University, St. George, UT: Utah Tech University. Hope, L. C. (2023, June). “Cookie Compliance: Investigating the Rhetorical Strategies of Digital Gathering Practices”. ATTW 2023 Conference. Virtual Conference: Association of Teachers of Technical Writing.
JONES, GLENDA, Instructor of the Practice in English - Composition. Jones, G. (2023). Chase the Bucket List: 101 Unforgettable Family-Friendly Adventures in Southern Utah (p. 200). Cedar City, Utah: Bloom Publishing.
KILLEBREW, KYLE L., Instructor of the Practice in English - Composition. Killebrew, K. L. (2024, April). Informing Best Practices in Composition through Indigenous Methodologies: A Heuristic for Teaching College Writing. Conference on College Composition and Communication. Spokane, Washington: National Council of Teachers of English.
KING, CINDY E., Associate Professor of English - Creative Writing. King, C. E. (2024). Poetry Reading at Brigham Young University. King, C. E. (2023). Utah Book Festival Poetry Reading. King, C., & Poetry Writing Students. (2024). Dance in Concert: Innervations. Dolores Dore Eccles Main Stage. King, C. E. (2024). Topographical Approximations. Ninth Letter, 21, 92. King, C. E. (2023). Fault. DIAGRAM, 23. King, C. E. (2023). Noumenon. New England Review, 44, 183. King, C. E. (2024). Living Room. Tar River Poetry. King, C., & Poetry Writing Students. (2024, April). Celebrate Poetry: A Reading for National Poetry Month. Celebrate Poetry: A Reading for National Poetry Month. St. George Public Library - St. George: St. George Public Library. King, C. E. (2024, April). Jennifer Sinor Reading and Q & A with Special Guest Dr. Erin O’Brien. St. George, UT: Creative Writing/UT English Department/Utah Humanities. King, C. E. (2024, April). Session E: Utah Tech’s 8th Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation, and Creative Activities. Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation, and Creative Activities. St. George, UT: Utah Tech University. King, C. E., & Staff, S. (2024, May). The Southern Quill Contributor Reading &
Launch Party. The Southern Quill Contributor Reading & Launch Party. St. George, UT: The Southern Quill/UT English Department. King, C. E. (2023, February). English Majors Career Panel. English Majors Career Panel. St. George, Utah. King, C. E. (2023, November). Jimmy Santiago Baca Workshop. St. George, UT: Utah Tech University/English Department. King, C. E. (n.d.). Five for Nothing. Galileo Press. King, C. E. (n.d.). Fever Coat. C&R Poetry Book Prize. C&R Press.
RANDAZZO, CHALICE, Associate Professor of English - Professional and Technical Writing. Randazzo, C. (2024). The Exclusionary Potential of “Professionalism” in Hiring Situations. Technical Communication Quarterly, 33, 270–284.
SCOTT, AMANDA N., Assistant Professor of English - Rhetoric and Composition. Scott, A. N. (2024). “The Vagina Project” Archive (20142024). The Vagina Project Website. Scott, A. N. (2024). “’I Would Never Wear Heels if my Feet Were Shaped Like This:’ Misogyny and the Femme Aesthetic.” The Vagina Project. Scott, A. N. (2024). “Polygamy and Women’s Burden in The Giant Joshua.” Juanita Brooks Utah History Conference. Utah Tech. Scott, A. N. (2023). Book Review for Essays on American Indian and Mormon History. Curiosity: Interdisciplinary Journal of Research and Innovation.
WIGHT, SHAUNA S., Assistant Professor of English - Rhetoric and Composition. Wight, S. S. (2024). Digital Underlife in the First-Year Composition Classroom. Co.
HISTORY, HUMANITIES, & MODERN LANGUAGES
CARTMILL, MICHAEL K., Professor of Spanish. Taylor, L., Arevalo, L. E., Cartmill, M. K., & Ceballos, L. (2024). 1st year Spanish using OERs, a collaborative approach among our faculty. Teaching, Learning, and Student Success Conference. St. George, UT: CTL.
CEBALLOS, LEONOR, Professor of Spanish. Taylor, L., Arevalo, L. E., Cartmill, M. K., & Ceballos, L. (2024). 1st year Spanish using
OERs, a collaborative approach among our faculty. Teaching, Learning, and Student Success Conference. St. George, UT: CTL.
LOVELAND, JEFF A., Visiting Assistant Professor of the Practice in History. Loveland, J. A. (2024, January). Mathematical Dictionaries and Heritage, 1660-1800. PatriMaths [= Mathematical Heritage]. Marseilles, France: PatriMaths.
O, HOSOK, Associate Professor of History. O, H., & Okamura, R. (2023). Building Connections to Protect Ethnic Education: The Chōsen Schools’ Intercultural Network. Seoul Journal of Korean Studies, 36, 49–86.
PRENDERGAST, EMMA R., Assistant Professor of Philosophy. Prendergast, E. R. (2024, February). Do Morally Perfect Citizens Need Political Authority? American Philosophical Association Central Division Meeting. New Orleans, LA: American Philosophical Association. Prendergast, E. R. (2024, February). Comments on Shaun Nichols’s Rational Rules. American Philosophical Association Central Division Meeting. New Orleans, LA: American Philosophical Association. Prendergast, E. R. (2023, November). The Politics of Biometric Data and Deepfakes. Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) Society Annual Meeting 2023. New Orleans, LA: PPE Society. Prendergast, E. R. (2023). In Defense of Wishful Thinking. Moral Philosophy and Politics, 10, 299–319. Prendergast, E. R. (2023). Medical necessity, mental health, and justice. Clinical Ethics, 18, 292–297.
ROSETTI, CRISTINA M., Assistant Professor of Humanities. Rosetti, C. M. (2023). “Fast from that Which is Not Perfect”: Food Abstinence and Fasting Cures in the Kingdom of God. Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought.
TAYLOR, LUCIA, Associate Professor of Spanish / Co-Associate Dean for CHASS. Coburn, J. W. (n.d.). When I Go on Vacation with My Family / Cuando Me Voy De Vacaciones Con Mi Familia: An English/Spanish Story for Children. Taylor, L. (2024). Intermediate
Spanish - Span 2020. Pressbooks. Taylor, L. (2023). Beginning Spanish - Span 1020 at UT. Pressbooks. Taylor, L. (2024, February). OERs to help our 1st-year students (win-win situation for all). Southwest Conference on Language Teaching. Honolulu, HI. Taylor, L. (2023, November). Open Educational Resources, a win-win situation for all? International conference in Innovation in Language Learning. Florence, Italy. Taylor, L. (2023, November). Open Educational Resources, cheaper and better? ACTFL annual convention. Chicago, IL. Taylor, L. (2023, June). Teaching future teachers the basics of teaching in a DLI class… wait what? Annual AATSP Conference. Salamanca, Spain: AATSP. Taylor, L., Arevalo, L. E., Cartmill, M. K., & Ceballos, L. (2024). 1st year Spanish using OERs, a collaborative approach among our faculty. Teaching, Learning, and Student Success Conference. St. George, UT: CTL. Taylor, L., Lanners, E. L., Richards, J. W., & Rose, K. S. (2024). Embracing Open: Faculty Perspectives on Utilizing and Creating Open Educational Resources. Teaching, Learning, and Student Success Conference. St. George, UT. Taylor, L. (2023). Open Educational Resources, a Win-Win Situation for All? In Proceedings (Vol. 1, p. 318). Florence, Italy: Filodiritto Editore.
WOLFE, JOHN E., Associate Professor of Philosophy / Dept Chair. Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., Balogh, L., Bolden, J. I., Brower, C., Bruce, B. S., … Yu, K.-W. (2024, April). Dance in Concert: Innervations, Reflections of Self. Eccles Main Stage. St. George, Utah, USA: Utah Tech Dance Program.
PSYCHOLOGY
BELL, SPENCER, Assistant Professor of Psychology. Bell, S. (2023, June). Brain Night: A Service Learning Project with CrossDisciplinary Collaboration. 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit. St. George, UT: Global Polytechnic Education Alliance.
JONES, JOHN T., Professor of Psychology. Jones, J. T., & Mitchell, H. (2024, February). Effects of Perceived Parenting Style on Adult Coping Strategies. Utah Conference
on Undergraduate Research. Utah Valley University. Jones, J. T., Balaceanu, M., Bird, P., Carsey, G., & Caplin, T. (2024, February). When One is Loved: Attachment Security and Relationship Quality. Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research. Utah Valley University.
OLSON, KRISTINE J., Professor of Psychology. Olson, K. J., & Hopkins, B. (2024, April). Labour Control via Dormitory-esque Workplace Housing in England: A Case Study. Annual Conference of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Chicago, IL: Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Hopkins, B., & Olson, K. J. (2024, June). Employer Accommodation Provision and Worker Control in the Agricultural Sector. Annual Meeting of Labor Employment Relations Association. New York, NY: Labor Employment Relations Association.
SCOTT, LISA M., Assistant Professor of Psychology. Scott, L. M. (2024, February). Emotion-Acceptance and Values Clarification for Empowered Living. The Vagina Project. Utah Tech University. Scott, L. M. (2024, January). Transgender Identity and Mental Health in Children. EDUC2400: Foundations Multicultural/ESL. Utah Tech University. Scott, L. M. (2023, September). Gender Transitions and Mental Health. Institute for Race and Gender Identity Event. Utah Tech Gardner Living Room: Utah Tech University. Scott, L. M. (2023, September). Mental Health for Gender Diverse Individuals. PSY2800: Human Sexuality. Utah Tech University.
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY
BIOLOGY
SHIH, HUNG YU, Assistant Professor of Biology - Functional Genomics. Shih, H.-Y., Raas, Q., & Bonkowsky, J. L. (2024). Progress in leukodystrophies with zebrafish. Development, growth & differentiation. Shih, H.-Y., Chen, H.-Y., Huang, Y.-C., Yeh, T.-H., Chen, Y.-C., & Cheng, Y.-C. (2023). Etv5a Suppresses Neural
Progenitor Cell Proliferation by Inhibiting Transcription. Stem Cells and Development, 32, 524–538.
CHEMISTRY
REESE, DIANA L., Assistant Professor of Chemistry. Colmenero, J., Richards, A., Shelton, C., Warenski, M., & Reese, D. L. (2024). Computational Analysis of Cyclic Aminoborane Complexes. Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research (UCUR). Utah Valley University: UCUR/ UVU. Colmenero, J., Richards, A., Shelton, C., Warenski, M., & Reese, D. L. (2024, April). Orbital Analysis of B-H Bonds in Cyclic Aminoborane Complexes. Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation, and Creativity. St. George, UT. Utah Tech University: Utah Tech University.
SCHATZBERG, WENDY E., Associate Professor of Chemistry / Director for the Center of Teaching and Learning. Schatzberg, W. E., De La Vieja Medina, C., & Tobler, S. K. (2024, May). Optimization of Animal Hair Preparation for Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). 30th Annual Fellowship Symposium Utah NASA Space Grant Consortium. Saint George, Utah. Schatzberg, W. E., Kotter, L., & Tobler, S. (2024, April). Blackbody Radiation: Insights from pyrometry and silicon nanowire synthesis. Utah Tech University Trailblazer Symposium. Saint George, Utah. Schatzberg, W. E., Goates, M., & Tobler, S. K. (2024, April). Differences in sand quality through aeolian and fluvial erosion. Utah Tech University Research and Design Day. Saint George, Utah. Schatzberg, W. E., & Millett, T. (2024, April). Hair-conditioned: how hollow hair helps big game animals thermoregulate. Utah Tech University Trailblazer Symposium. Saint George, Utah. Schatzberg, W. E., & De La Vieja, C. (2024, April). Optimization of Animal Hair Preparation for SEM. Utah Tech University Trailblazer Symposium. Saint George, Utah. Schatzberg, W. E., Tobler, S. K., & Rose, C. (2024, April). Roundness, Oblongness, and Roughness coefficients of aeolian and Fluvian sand using SEM. Utah Tech University Research and Design Day. Saint George, Utah. Schatzberg, W. E. (2024). How to Write a CV. Trailblazer Leadership Program. Schatzberg, W. E. (2024,
March). Integrating AI Learning in Technologies in Higher Education. Teaching, Learning, and Student Success Conference. Utah Tech University: Utah Tech University. Schatzberg, W. E. (2024). “Empowering interdisciplinary collaboration: Evaluating the impact of NSF STEM INSPIRE program on science students.” American Chemical Society National Meeting. Denver, Colorado: American Chemical Society. Schatzberg, W. E. (2024). “Enhancing learning and performance: metacognition in general chemistry students through survey analysis.” American Chemical Society National Meeting. New Orleans, LA: American Chemical Society. Schatzberg, W. E. (2023). INSPIRE program: Creating engaged STEM undergraduate cohorts to promote interdisciplinary research and innovative projects. American Chemical Society National Meeting. San Francisco, CA: American Chemical Society. Schatzberg, W. E. (2024). Exploring students’ learning gains and collaboration skills in physical chemistry laboratory and lecture: A POGIL approach”. American Chemical Society National Meeting. New Orleans, LA: American Chemical Society. Schatzberg, W. E. Compare and Contrast how chemistry and physics students use graphs to calculate rates, Utah Tech University 1–5 (2023). Schatzberg, W. E. (2023). NSF STEM Workshop: Applying to Graduate School: A practical guide for making the best decision for you.
EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
GHASEMI, MARZIEH, Assistant Professor of Environmental Engineering. Ghasemi, M., & Peace, A. (2024, February). The Way We Waste: Solid Waste Production Washington County, UT. (C. Bennett, Ed.), UCUR and UT Symposium. Utah Valley University.
PONDELL, CHRISTINA, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science. Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., Balogh, L., Bolden, J. I., Brower, C., Bruce, B. S., … Yu, K.-W. (2024, April). Dance in Concert: Innervations, Reflections of Self. Eccles Main Stage. St. George, Utah, USA: Utah Tech Dance Program. Bywater, W., Pondell, C., Tye, A. R., & Jin, Z. (2024, April). Precipitation impacts on discharge of the Santa Clara
River. 8th Trailblazer Symposium. St. George, UT: Utah Tech University. Pondell, C., Hein, C., FitzGerald, D., Hughes, Z., & Georgiou, I. (2024, February). Provenance of saltmarsh storm deposits in backbarrier lagoons along the Georgia Bight (southeast USA). Ocean Sciences Meeting 2024. New Orleans, LA: American Association for Limnology and Oceanography. Parry, E., Trush, N., & Pondell, C. (2024, February). The Santa Clara River: A vital arid waterway under human and climate pressures. Utah Conference for Undergraduate Research 2024. Orem, UT: Utah Valley University. Pondell, C. (2023, June). Putting waste in its place: Student-guided solutions to sustainable resource management at Utah Tech University. 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit. St. George, UT. Acakpovi, A., Aschmann, S., Astwood, J. D., Asunda, P., Axelgard, B., Azzam, I., … Yule, J. V. (2023). Proceedings of the 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit, Technology talent: Advancing a comprehensive and global strategy. Curiosity: Interdisciplinary Journal of Research and Innovation.
ENGINEERING
REID, RUSSELL C., Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering. Kakaraparty, K., Pineda, E. A., Reid, R. C., & Mahbub, I. (2023). Advancement of Reverse Electrowetting-onDielectric with Flexible Electrodes for Bias-Free Energy- Harvesting Applications. IEEE Sensors Journal, 23, 10334.
MATHEMATICS
HASAN, MD SAZIB, Assistant Professor of Mathematics / Director of International Education. Hasan, M. S., Chellamuthu, V. K., & Liu, J. (2024). List of Students. Hasan, M. S. (2024, January). Fostering Inner Creativity: The Benefits and Challenges of Encouraging Student- led Projects Based on Class Curriculum. Joint Mathematics Meeting, 2024. California: American Mathematical Society. Hasan, M. S. (2023, June). Fostering Inner Creativity: The Benefits and Challenges of Encouraging Student- led Projects Based on Class Curriculum. Global Polytechnic Summit. Tampa, FL: Utah Tech University.
Hasan, M. S. (2023, August). Fostering Inner Creativity: The Benefits and Challenges of Encouraging Student- led Projects Based on Class Curriculum. MAA MathFest. Tampa, FL: Mathematical Association of America.
ART
ASTLE, BRIAN K., Assistant Professor of Art. Astle, B. K. (2024). Montana Trails Gallery Holiday Small Works Show. Astle, B. K. (2024). Sears Gallery Invitational. Astle, B. K. (2023). American Impressionist Society 4th Annual Online Exhibition. Astle, B. K. (2023). American Impressionist Society 24th Annual National Juried Exhibition. Astle, B. K. (2023). American Impressionist Society 3rd Annual Online Exhibition. Astle, B. K. (2023). Oil Painters of America Western Regional Exhibition.
CHAMBERLAIN, ALEX T., Associate Professor of Art / Dept Chair. Chamberlain, A. T. (2024, April). I Really Wanted a Life-Sized T. rex Skull. Blender Conference. Fonda Theater, Los Angeles, CA: Autotroph.
FLACK, MCGARREN MCGARREN, Associate Professor of Studio Art. Flack, M. M. (2024). Springville Art Museum Spring Salon Show Award of Merit.
MUSIC
ALLRED-WRIGHT, NANCY C., Professor of Music. Allred, N. C. (2024). Lieto Voices Patriotic Concert. Lieto Voices. Allred, N. C. (2024). Lieto Voices Spring Concert. Lieto Voices. Allred, N. C. (2024). Southern Utah Piano Pedagogy Conference. Rachmaninoff Piano Trio - Three Piano Professors. Allred, N. C. (2023). Christmas Concert: O Night Divine. Utah Tech University Music Faculty. Allred, N. C. (2023). Lieto Voices 20th Anniversary Concert. Lieto Voices. Allred, N. C. (2023). Lieto Voices Christmas Concert - SG Catholic Church. Lieto Voices. Allred, N. C. (2023). Lieto Voices Christmas Concert - SG Tabernacle.
Lieto Voices. Allred, N. C. (2023). An Evening of Music. Linda Pellegrine and Nancy Allred. Allred, N. C. (2023). Castle Rock Piano Camp Faculty Recital. Piano Faculty.
FRANCIS, TIMOTHY, Professor of Music. Francis, T. (2024). Armed Forces Day Dance at the Airport Museum. Rebel Jazz Band. Francis, T. (2024). Pictures at an Exhibition concert. Southwest Symphony Orchestra. Francis, T. (2024). Saint George City Valentine Dance. Rebel Jazz Band. Francis, T. (2024). Saint George Jazz Festival Performance with Sal Lozano. Rebel Jazz Band. Francis, T. (2024). The Redeemer, featuring Jenny Oaks Baker, with music written, arranged, and conducted by Kurt Bestor. Southwest Symphony Orchestra, Jenny Oaks Baker, Guests. Francis, T. (2023). Brass Day Concert. Various. Francis, T. (2023).
Faculty Recital. UT Music Faculty, Including Faculty Brass Ensemble. Francis, T. (2023). Holiday Jazz Concert with Lyndy Butler. Rebel Jazz Band. Francis, T. (2023). “Symphonic September” concert. Southwest Symphony Orchestra.
SMITH, BRYANT W., Associate Professor of Music - Director of Bands. Smith, B. W. (2024). Continuing Music Education. Utah Music Educators Journal, 69 vol 2, 12. Smith, B. W. (2023). Get Out of Town. Utah Music Educators Journal, 69 vol 1, p. 20.
YU, KA-WAI, Associate Professor of Music
- Cello. Yu, K.-W. (2024). Cello Master Class for Nevada School of the Arts organized by Robin Reinartz. Yu, K.-W. (2024). Cosmopolitan Baroque Concert “Rendezvous with Bach, Telemann and Heinichen.” Cosmopolitan Baroque. Yu, K.-W. (2024). Grand Circle New Music Concert. Grand Circle New Music. Yu, K.W. (2024). Cello Duo Recital “Past and Present.” Yu, K.-W. (2024). “Past, Presence, and Future” Cello Duet Concert and Research. Yu, K.-W. (2020–2024). Special Guest Soloist in Concerts “All Shall be Well.” St. George Chamber Singers. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Cello Soloist in Shostakovich: Cello Concerto No. 1 with the Southwest Symphony Orchestra. Southwest Symphony Orchestra. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Cello Soloist in Vivaldi: Double Cello Concerto
with the Zion Youth Symphony Orchestra. Southwest Symphony Orchestra. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Concert “Christmas CELLObration” at Kayenta. Cello Society of Southern Utah. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Faculty Recital. Utah Tech University Music Faculty. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Grand Circle New Music Concert. Grand Circle New Music. Yu, K.-W. (2023). “O Night Divine” Concert. KateLyn Syphus, Violin Ka-Wai Yu, Cello Nancy Allred, Piano. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Rendezvous with Clarinet, Strings and Piano. Chamber Music Society of Southern Utah. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Soirée Musicale – Schubert Meets Jazz. Chamber Music Society of Southern Utah. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Castle Rock String Camp Faculty Recital. Castle Rock Music Camp String Faculty. Yu, K.-W. (2023). Cello Society Mountain Concert. Cello Society of Southern Utah Cello Ensemble. Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., Balogh, L., Bolden, J. I., Brower, C., Bruce, B. S., … Yu, K.-W. (2024, April). Dance in Concert: Innervations, Reflections of Self. Eccles Main Stage. St. George, Utah, USA: Utah Tech Dance Program. Yu, K.-W. (2024). Influence of Artificial Intelligence in String Education and Performance for musiceducation string majors at University of Illinois. University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Yu, K.-W. (2024). Using Artificial Intelligence in Music Education. Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation, and Creativity. St George, UT. Yu, K.-W. (2024, March). Seeing the World of Another Student: My Cross-Disciplinary Documentary Assignment. The Eighth Annual Teaching and Learning Conference. Utah Tech University: Utah Tech University Center for Teaching and Learning. Yu, K.-W. (2024, March). “C(e/o)llaborate: Integrating Cello Ensemble into Your Studio/Program”. American String Teachers Association National Conference. Louisville International Convention Center, Louisville, KY: American String Teachers Association. Yu, K.-W. (2024, March). “From the Bottom Up! Strategies for Helping Low-String Orchestra Students”. American String Teachers Association National Conference. Louisville International Convention Center, Louisville, KY: American String Teachers Association. Yu, K.-W. (2024, January). “Thumbs up, Cellists! Setting up for Thumb Position and Addressing Common
COLLEGE OF THE ARTS
Issues in Cello Playing Posture.” Illinois Music Educators Association Regional Conference. Broadmoor Hotel, Colorado Springs, CO: Colorado Music Educators Association.
THEATRE & DANCE
BRUCE, BRANDON S., Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts. Bruce, B. S. (2024). BLAMED: An Established Fiction. Tumbleweed Theatre. Bruce, B. S., Davies, K. L., Echeverria, H. E., Richards, C. E. A., & Gallo, S. (2024). A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Bruce, B. S. (2024). Coyote Tales. Coyote Tales. Bruce, B. S., Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., & Weber, J. Y. (2024). Innervations. Utah Tech Dance Program. Bruce, B. S., & Harris, Z. Z. (2023). John Proctor is the Villain. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Bruce, B. S., Davies, K. L., Richards, C. E. A., & Echeverria, H. E. (2023). This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Bruce, B. S. (2023). What the Constitution Means to Me. Center for the Arts at Kayenta. Bruce, B. S., & Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Macbeth No. 9. Tumbleweed Theatre Company. Bruce, B. S. (2023). The Great Potato Conspiracy. Center for the Arts at Kayenta. Bruce, B. S., & Mills, G. R. (2024). Miss Fancy: Queen of the Zoo (p. 90). Woodstock, IL: Dramatic Publishing Company.
DAVIES, KRIS L., Associate Professor of Theatre Arts. Bruce, B. S., Davies, K. L., Richards, C. E. A., Gallo, S., Echeverria, H. E.,
& Hamilton, A. P. (2024). A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Davies, K. L. (2023). A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech University Theatre Program. Davies, K. L. (2023). This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing. Utah Tech University Theatre Program.
ECHEVERRIA, HENRY E., Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Lighting Designer for Innervation. Utah Tech Dance Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Lighting Technician for A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Lighting Technician for The Student Playwrights Festival. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Sound Designer for A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Sound Technician for Innervation. Utah Tech Dance Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Sound Technician for The Student Playwrights Festival. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Technical Director for A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2024). Technical Director for Innervation. Utah Tech Dance Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Lighting Designer for This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023).
Projections Technician for John Proctor is the Villain. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Sound Designer for John Proctor
is the Villain. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Sound Technician for John Proctor is the Villain. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Technical Director for John Proctor is the Villain. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Technical Director for This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Technical Director for Macbeth No. 9. Tumbleweed Theatre Company.
GALLO, SARA, Professor of Dance / Dept Chair. Gallo, S., Taft, T., & Larabee, A. (2023). Holding Space. Red Rock Dance Festival. Gallo, S., & Rose Riley, S. (2023). Exquisite Eco-Somas, Workshop. Gallo, S. (2023, May). Holding Space: A Duet for the Self Keynote. Eastwest Shin Somatics Color Country Conference. Utah Tech University, St. George, UT: Utah Tech Dance Program, Eastwest Shin Somatics Network.
RICHARDS, CHELSEA E. A., Associate Professor of Theatre Arts. Bruce, B. S., Davies, K. L., Richards, C. E. A., Gallo, S., Echeverria, H. E., & Hamilton, A. P. (2024). A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Utah Tech Theatre Program. Bruce, B. S., Davies, K. L., Richards, C. E. A., & Echeverria, H. E. (2023). This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing. Utah Tech Theatre Program.
SHILCUTT, JB BETH, Assistant Professor of Dance. Shilcutt, J. B., & Weber, J. Y. (n.d.). Dance in Concert: Innervations. Shilcutt, J. B., Oliver, K. L., & Luguetti, C. N. (Eds.). (2024). An Activist Approach to physical activity and physical education (p. 204). Routledge. Shilcutt, J. B. (2023). “Even with the craziness, it worked”: PE teachers working in and with an Activist Approach. Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy. Shilcutt, J. B., & Oliver, K. L. (2023, October). “Sharing the Weight”: An Activist Approach in Community Programming. Teaching is Leading: Embracing Our Impact and Opportunity as Dance Educators. Denver, Colorado: National Dance Education Organization.
WEBER, JENNIFER Y., Associate Professor of Dance. Weber, J. Y., & Wall, M. (2024). Implicated. New Dance Foundation for the Arts. Weber, J. Y. (2024). Four Shades of Reckoning. Utah Tech Dance Program. Bruce, B. S., Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., & Weber, J. Y. (2024). Innervations. Utah Tech Dance Program. Weber, J. Y. (2023). Four Shades of Reckoning. Dance Program, Utah Tech. Weber, J. Y. (2023). DanceBARN 2023 Festival. DanceBARN. Weber, J. Y. (2023). Deconstructing. New Dance Foundation for the Arts. Weber, J. Y. (2024, May). Exploring the Power of Dynamic Imagery and Improvisational Play: Enhancing Belonging and Well-being. Color Country Conference. Zion: EastWest Somatics. Weber, J. Y. (2023, June). Learning-Centered Teaching in the Face of a Vastly Changing Future. The State of the Institution(s): CORPS de Ballet International at 25. Virtual: CORPS de Ballet International Inc. Shilcutt, J. B., Gallo, S., Balogh, L., Bolden, J. I., Brower, C., Bruce, B. S., … Yu, K.-W. (2024, April). Dance in Concert: Innervations, Reflections of Self. Eccles Main Stage. St.
George, Utah, USA: Utah Tech Dance Program.
BURNS, JOHN C., Librarian - Head of Reference and Electronic Resources. Burns, J. C. (2023, November). Wielding the Power of Trustworthy Information: How Librarians Help Build Information Literacy. Charleston Conference 2023. Charleston, SC and Online: Annual Reviews.
LANNERS, EMMA LEIGH, Assistant Librarian - Open Educational Resources and Graduate Support. Taylor, L., Lanners, E. L., Richards, J. W., & Rose, K. S. (2024). Embracing Open: Faculty Perspectives on Utilizing and Creating Open Educational Resources. Teaching, Learning, and Student Success Conference. St. George, UT. Lanners, E. L., Kani, J., & Matheson, E. (2024). Empowering OER Growth: Leveraging Grants and Local Infrastructure. Teach and Learn with Open
Education Resources: A Virtual Symposium for Utah Higher Education. Virtual. Lanners, E. L., & Stapley, A. (2024). Introduction to Open Education Resources. Teach and Learn with Open Education Resources: A Virtual Symposium for Utah Higher Education. Virtual. Reber, C. W., & Lanners, E. L. (2024, April). Student-Created Patient Case Studies for Licensure Exam Preparation and Open Educational Resource (OER) Publication: A Collaborative Project. 8th Trailblazer Symposium for Research, Innovation, and Creativity. Utah Tech: UT. Lanners, E. L. (2023). Open Access Resources in Polytechnic Education. 2023 Global Polytechnic summit. Lanners, E. L. (2024). Peer Review completed for MERLOT Library & Information Services Editorial board for material “Adaptation Guide-BCcampus Open Education.” Lanners, E. L. (2024). Peer Review for MERLOT Library & Information Services Editorial board for material “Library Guide: Zotero.”
