SC H O O L OF ST E M
ST E M WI T H PU R POS E I W U S T E M is a Christ-centered learning community dedicated to developing students through mentorship and high-impact STEM learning experiences, both inside and outside the classroom, building on a proven record of preparing graduates to thrive in their careers, advanced studies, and callings. IWU STEM’s vision is to cultivate a thriving community by developing, supporting, and celebrating high-impact curricular and co-curricular experiences that foster transformative connections between students and faculty.
“At IWU STEM, our cutting-edge programs and high-impact learning experiences provide students with meaningful Faculty mentorship that builds confidence, strengthens their Christian identity, and equips them to grow as scientists and servant leaders.” MATTHEW KREITZER, PHD, PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY; DEAN SCHOOL OF STEM
FRANCIS SU EXPLORES THE CONNECTION B E T W E E N M AT H E M AT I C S A N D FA I T H Adapted from IWU communication written by Annie Seboe When Francis Su, Ph.D., looks at the world, he sees more than trees, clouds, and stars. The Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College sees the hidden mathematical patterns that underlie creation—structures that reveal beauty and order. Su, author of Mathematics for Human Flourishing, argues that mathematics cultivates the habits and virtues that help people flourish. At Indiana Wesleyan University, as part of the Common Learning Theme on the Christian imagination (2025–2027), Su challenged students and faculty to consider how mathematics shapes both the mind and the soul. Throughout his talk, he argued that mathematics trains us to see what is not immediately visible, to imagine what could be true, and to pursue those possibilities with discipled curiosity. Su drew a direct connection between mathematical thinking and faith: “Having an imagination for what’s possible is a huge part of what it means to do math. We hold to this idea that there are mathematical laws you cannot see that have direct influence on the universe, and that’s similar in a life of faith. We have this idea that God, whom we cannot see yet, has the power to shape the moral universe.” Yet for many people, mathematics is associated with frustration rather than wonder. Su noted that these experiences often begin early, but argued that struggle is not a sign of failure—it’s fundamental to learning. “Learning is not possible without struggle, without pushing yourself in ways that feel at first uncomfortable. A mind that’s ready to tackle hard problems,” Su said, “is one that actually experienced hardness before.” Su suggested that the patience required in mathematics mirrors the persistence of prayer. “You might wrestle with a scripture, and then one day through divine epiphany, you’re like ‘Okay, God. I get it now. I see a bigger perspective,’” explained Su. For Su, both mathematics and faith require perseverance, humility, and a willingness to wrestle with questions whose answers are not immediately apparent. For IWU students, Su’s message offered a compelling vision of STEM as more than technical achievement—it is a pursuit that cultivates curiosity, perseverance, and wonder while pointing toward the beauty of God’s creation.
I W U E N G I N E E R I N G E A R N S A B E T AC C R E D I TAT I O N A N D C E L E B R AT E S A N E W E R A O F G R OW T H Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) Engineering has officially earned ABET accreditation, recognizing the program’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and preparing students to lead with integrity. This milestone follows a rigorous two-year review process and marks an exciting new chapter for the growing program. In 2026, IWU Engineering is celebrating several significant achievements. The program has graduated students from all five specializations—mechanical, civil, electrical, computer, and design engineering—and recently completed Phase II renovations of the Don Wood Engineering Building, adding 8,000 square feet of instructional and office space. With enrollment continuing to rise, the Bachelor of Science in Engineering program is expected to surpass 100 students this fall. At the heart of IWU Engineering is a commitment to developing engineers who combine technical excellence with Christian character and creativity. This vision inspired the creation of the Design Engineering specialization, which equips students to approach challenges not only by analyzing problems but by imagining and designing solutions. “Engineering education has often focused on breaking problems down,” said Dr. David Che, engineering program director. “But in real-world engineering, we also need to put things together and synthesize. As image bearers, we want to exercise our God-given creativity and talent.” In December 2025, Abby Huizinga became the first graduate of IWU’s Design Engineering program. For Abby, the program offered the opportunity to pursue both her creative and analytical gifts. “I didn’t want to give up my creative side or my logical side,” Huizinga said. “With Design Engineering, I didn’t have to give up either of my God-given callings.” As IWU Engineering continues to grow, the program remains dedicated to shaping engineers who solve problems, design with purpose, and lead faithfully.
BEST IN IWU STEM
05 BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE MAJOR LAUNCHED
02 NEW STEM SCHOLAR PROGRAM (ask about it)
0 4 N E W C O M P U TAT I O N A L /A I S PAC E U N V E I L E D
01 IWU ENGINEERING
with new programming coming
receives ABET accreditation
0 3 I W U S T E M C E L E B R AT I O N OF SCHOLARSHIP has 100+ student authors presenting their work
I W U S T E M L A U N C H E S A I & C O M P U TAT I O N A L L A B The School of STEM is shaping the future of artificial intelligence with the launch of the AI & Computational Lab—a dynamic space for hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and innovation. Established in Fall 2026 under the leadership of Dr. Joshua Nwokeji, the inaugural Clapp Endowed Chair of Computer Science, the lab gives students opportunities to work alongside faculty on cutting-edge AI research. Students use advanced computing resources and specialized AI technologies to explore: • Large Language Models (LLMs) • Multimodal AI • AI-enabled robotics • Embodied intelligence • Human-computer interaction Equipped with high-performance GPU workstations, robotics platforms, embedded AI devices, and collaborative workspaces, the lab enables students to train advanced AI models, develop intelligent applications, and tackle computational challenges beyond the traditional classroom. More than a research facility, the AI & Computational Lab is a hub for faculty-mentored research, project-based learning, AI Club activities, and future industry partnerships.
Undergraduate Research in Action During its inaugural summer, three undergraduate researchers joined Dr. Nwokeji through the IWU STEM Hodson Research Institute, helping establish the lab while launching research projects in emerging areas of artificial intelligence. Their work provides hands-on experience in AI development, experimental design, and collaborative research, preparing students for careers in one of today’s fastest-growing fields.
Building the Future of AI As the AI & Computational Lab grows, it will expand opportunities for undergraduate research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and industry engagement. By investing in students and emerging technologies, the School of STEM is preparing graduates to lead innovation and shape the future of artificial intelligence.
THE HODSON RESEARCH L E G A C Y : C U LT I VAT I N G T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N O F S C I E N T I S T S For 16 years, the Hodson Research Institute (HRI) has given IWU students the opportunity to do more than study science—they experience it firsthand. Established in 2011 through the generosity of the Arthur Hodson Foundation, HRI represents the lasting impact of investing in students and their futures. This fully funded summer research experience provides undergraduates with opportunities typically reserved for graduate students at major research institutions. Working alongside faculty mentors, students engage in meaningful discovery, develop critical research skills, and grow as scientists and leaders. This year, 19 students participated in nine faculty-mentored research projects under the direction of HRI Program Director Dr. Benjamin Linger, Associate Professor of Chemistry. Across 16 years, nearly 300 IWU undergraduates have benefited from this transformative experience, with many continuing on to medical school, Ph.D. programs, and impactful careers in science and innovation. Through the Hodson Research Institute, the generosity of supporters continues to open doors for students to explore, discover, and pursue their callings—bringing faith, scientific excellence, and mentorship together in the pursuit of knowledge.
SUMMER RESEARCH PROJECTS BENJAMIN LINGER, PHD, ASSOC. PROF. OF CHEMISTRY; HRI PROGRAM DIRECTOR JENNIFER NOSEWORTHY & CORINA BIR
Plant-pollinator interactions: impact of increased pollinator habitat on tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) and pepper (Capsicum annum) yield in urban community gardens. JENNIFER NOSEWORTHY, EMMA ZLOCK & MIKE HERRINGTON
Pollinator-attracting companion planting to benefit crop yield among urban farms TARA RENBARGER, HOPE STEVENS & TAEDYM PETERSEN
Impacts of food preservatives & water treatments on the gut microbiome BENJAMIN LINGER & CALEB PATTERSON
Examine the thermal stability of proteins from the thermophile Chloroflexus aurantiacus for comparison with homologs from the mesophile Heliorestis convolut. SCOTT MCCULLOUGH & IAN FOSTER
MD simulation and analysis for docking molecules for SHP2 JACOB BUCK, AUDRA FLANARY, MARTA SINSABAUGH & LAUREN SPEICHER
• Effect of Plant Growth Regulators & Bio-stimulants on Success of Softwood Cuttings in Deerberry. • Effect of Companion Planting on Yield & Fruit Quality in Strawberry & Northern Highbush Blueberry STEPHEN LEONARD, ANNA RANOUS & DANIELLA JOSEPH
Development of potent and selective inhibitors of SHP2 protein tyrosine phosphatase NATE KITZMILLER, MAGGIE MEYUNG & JONATHAN ALBRIGHT
Structure-based computational design of novel SHP2 inhibitors WARREN ROGERS, KADEN BURNS & CHRIS EADS
Development, construction & testing of the Next Generation Neutron detector array, for the study of exotic neutron-rich nuclei at the Facility for Rare Isotopes at Michigan State University (NSF funded) JOSHUA NWOKEJI & JOHN CLARK
Investigating Context Aware Safety Reasoning in LLM-Based Embodied Robots for Personalized Healthcare Assistance JOSHUA NWOKEJI & COLLIN KREITZER
Evaluating Multimodal Large Language Models (MLLM) for Intelligent Tutoring in STEM Education JOSHUA NWOKEJI & JOSHUA YIN
Subgoal Analysis of Vision Language Action (VLA) Models Under Perturbations induced by Speech Disorder
D R . M I K E G O F F, I W U FAC U LT Y E M E R I T U S
W I L D C AT FA R M S A R E M A K I N G A D I F F E R E N C E T H R O U G H M E N T O R S H I P, S C I E N T I F I C D I S C O V E R Y, A N D C O M M U N I T Y I M PAC T Adapted from IWU’s Research Magazine Dr. Jennifer Noseworthy’s first undergraduate research experience changed the course of her career and sparked a lifelong passion for scientific discovery. Today, as Professor of Biology and Chair of the Division of Natural Sciences at Indiana Wesleyan University, she is creating similar opportunities for students through Wildcat Farms—a living laboratory where research, mentorship, and service come together. Since 2021, Noseworthy and her undergraduate students have been conducting a five-year research project funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The study examines how pollinator gardens influence bee biodiversity, insect populations, and food production. Located on IWU’s campus and throughout Grant County, Wildcat Farms allows students to engage in hands-on research while supporting the local community through the donation of approximately 4,000 pounds of produce each year. For Noseworthy, the impact extends beyond scientific discovery. Through direct faculty mentorship, students gain the confidence and experience needed for graduate school, careers in science, and future leadership. Many of her research students have gone on to graduate programs, with hands-on experience giving them a distinct advantage. “I love seeing students gain confidence, not just in their ability to do research, but in their ability to adapt, problem-solve, and communicate their findings,” Noseworthy said. Through Wildcat Farms and IWU’s undergraduate research opportunities, students are discovering that science is not only about understanding the world—it is about serving others and creating meaningful change.
MORE THAN BIOLOGY: THE ENDURING LESSONS OF DR. MIKE GOFF Written by Stephen Conrad, Ph.D., Professor of Biology Have you ever met someone you were convinced knew everything? Dr. Albert “Mike” Goff was just such a person. He could speak with authority on almost any subject and had a gift for connecting with people through conversation. Whether discussing the Angels or a zebra parasite thinning the herds in the Maasai Mara, Mike always had something interesting to say. To borrow a phrase from Mike’s son Greg Goff: “He was a quintessential teacher whenever anyone else would listen, and a consummate student when he was alone. He never stopped learning, and he never stopped sharing that knowledge – even when his gradebooks had closed. For many of his students, Dr. Goff’s teaching went far beyond the classroom, and these students have stayed in contact throughout the years; these friendships he treasured.” Mike recently passed away on January 19, 2026. He was a beloved professor of biology at IWU from 1977– 2009 and one of the pioneers of IWU STEM education. He developed a reputation as a demanding yet fair instructor. He taught alongside other outstanding members of the IWU science faculty, helping build a program that influenced generations of students. Some families encouraged younger siblings to attend IWU to study under Mike Goff. I had the privilege of teaching alongside Mike and witnessing firsthand his extraordinary gift for teaching. Armed with little more than a piece of chalk and stacks of handwritten notes, he captivated students with stories, personal experiences, and an astonishing breadth of knowledge. Mike’s classes were not for the faint of heart; he expected commitment from his students. As Dr. Greg Beckley recalled, Mike began his Principles of Biology class by explaining that it was intended for serious biology students, not a general education lab science course. “Probably one-quarter to one-third of the students in the room flipped their notebooks closed and walked out.” (Greg Beckley, M.D.) Mike had an unmistakable grin. Another former student remembered: “As I think about him, the smirk on his face comes to mind. I would ask him a question, and he would just smile as if he knew, but he wasn’t going to tell me. I ended up loving him for that. It made me go search for my own answers. Thank you, Dr. Goff, and I’ll see you again someday!” (Dr. Amy Luedtke) Above all, Mike loved God’s creation. Former student Jessica O’Neil reflected: “His love of nature and life and how they clearly showcase the handiwork of the One who created them was evident in every word and action, and it was virtually impossible not to have this spark ignite in your own heart and mind after interacting with him for even a few moments.” I loved Dr. Goff. He was my teaching mentor and collaborator on countless adventures outside the classroom. Hardly a week passes that I don’t share with my students something Mike taught me about God’s creation. Though Mike is gone from our presence, he will not soon be forgotten. His influence was vast, and his love of God and His creation continues to inspire all who knew him. Thank you, Mike, for teaching us not only biology, but how to remain lifelong students of God’s creation.
I W U S T U D E N T S T O H E A LT H C A R E L E A D E R S : A L U M N I R E T U R N TO M E N TO R T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N Indiana Wesleyan University’s Pre-Health Care Sciences programs have a long history of preparing students to become physicians and healthcare professionals who serve with excellence, compassion, and faith. One of the program’s greatest strengths is its alumni—many of whom return to encourage and mentor the next generation. In 2026, Dr. Natassje “Tay” (Thomas) Davis ’19 and Dr. Jacob Kirby ’21, graduates of IWU’s Biology Pre-Med program, returned to campus to share their experiences with current students. Now physicians in the Family Medicine Residency Program at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, they participated in a conversation with first-year pre-health students through the course Preparing the Christian Health Professional. For more than 25 years, this course has helped prepare IWU students for the academic, professional, and spiritual demands of healthcare careers. Alumni like Drs. Davis and Kirby continue that legacy by offering students a firsthand perspective on medical training, resilience, faith, and patient care. “The Division of Natural Sciences is so grateful that these alumni took time out of their busy schedules to invest in our students and share the wisdom they have gained along their journeys,” said Dr. Dan Jones, Professor of Biology and co-coordinator of IWU’s Pre-Health Care Sciences Program. Drs. Davis and Kirby represent the impact of an IWU pre-health education—graduates who not only succeed in competitive healthcare fields but also remain connected to the university and committed to investing in those who follow. Through mentorship, community, and Christ-centered preparation, IWU continues to equip future healthcare professionals to serve others with skill, compassion, and purpose.
P R E - M E D & P R E - H E A LT H C A R E S C I E N C E S
A path to a career in health care This program provides curricular paths for students desiring to attend postgraduate health care professional school. Students from all majors pursue perquisite requirements for admission into healthcare programs.
Our specializations include: • Pre-medicine • Pre-physical therapy • Pre-physician assistant
• Pre-occupational therapy
• Pre-dentistry
• Pre-pharmacy
• Pre-optometry
• and more…
• Pre-veterinary medicine
D E A N : M AT T H E W K R E I T Z E R , P H D ( B I O )
IWU STEM MAJORS
Biology
BIOLOGY
• Jacob Buck, MS
• Biomedical Sciences
• Stephen Conrad, PhD
• Biological Sciences
• Dan Jones DDS, PhD (Premed Advisor)
• Environmental Science
• Jolie Leonard, PhD
• Medical Technology
• Jennifer Noseworthy, PhD (Division Chair)
• Biology Education Chemistry
STEM FA C U LT Y
• Tara Renbarger, PhD • Matthew Sattley, PhD
Chemistry
CHEMISTRY • Biochemistry
• Eric Kern, MS
• Biochemistry ACS
• Nathaniel Kitzmiller, PhD
• Chemistry ACS
• Stephen Leonard, PhD
• Chemistry Education
• Benjamin Linger, PhD • Steven Tripp, PhD
Physics • Scott McCullough, PhD (Mathematics) • Warren Rogers, PhD (Blanchard Chair)
Computer Information Sciences • Kenny Ayano, PhD • Joshua Nwokeji, PhD (Clapp Chair, Computer Science)
Engineering
COMPUTER INFORMATION SCIENCES • Computer Information Systems • Computer Science
ENGINEERING (SPECIALIZATIONS) • Electrical • Civil
• David Che, PhD (Chair)
• Mechanical
• Michael Li, PhD
• Computer
• Vicente Mercado, PhD
• Design
• Chris Williams, PhD
MATHEMATICS
• Yang Zhao, PhD
• Data Science
Mathematics
• Mathematics
• Daniel Kiteck, PhD • Robert Mallison, PhD • Chase Mathison, PhD • Rebecca Wakeman, EdD (Chair)
• Mathematics Education • Mathematics Interdisciplinary • Actuarial Science minor
PHYSICS
DON WOOD ENGINEERING BUILDING
OTT HALL OF SCIENCE & NURSING
4201 S. Washington Street Marion, IN 46953 SCAN TO FOLLOW US OR VISIT INDWES.EDU
School of STEM