1 5 T H
B I A N N U A L
R O C H E S T E R
C O L L E G E
ACADEMIC SYMPOSIUM
Symposium chair: Dr. Jessica Matchynski-Franks Symposium committee: Dr. Anne Nichols, Dr. Mark Manry, Dr. Catherine Parker Photography & web design: Elliot Jones Print design: Liz Fulton Undergraduate interns: Alexandria Lubach-McClellan, Veronica Moore, Heather Siedhoff, & Leah Zambron Event operations: Rachel Arbaugh
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Welcome to the Fall 2017 Rochester College Academic Symposium
Welcome to Rochester College’s 15th biannual Academic Symposium, where we join together to celebrate our vibrant academic community. We are especially honored to present the academic achievements and capstone projects of 68 Rochester College students. This year’s program boasts a diversity of subject matter and a display of critical thinking as reflected in our students’ scholarly papers, executive simulations, theatrical performances and musical concerts. These performances and all of our students’ presentations are exciting indicators of our mission to “prepare students for a life of study and service” by developing in them increasing abilities to perform scholarly research, to communicate with excellence, and to think critically and creatively. In addition to our student talks, we are holding our annual poster session. Student posters will be displayed throughout the halls of the Ennis and Nancy Ham Library and Richardson Academic Center. During the session, students, faculty, staff and guests are encouraged to meet one-on-one with the presenters to learn more about their work in this “meeting of the minds.” We welcome your participation in this wonderful event, and we congratulate our student scholars for their achievements. Sincerely,
Brian Stogner, Ph.D. President
SUNDAY, DEC. 3 | ST. ANDREW CATHOLIC CHURCH • ROCHESTER, MI | 7:30 P.M. COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Rochester A Cappella Chorus will make its annual appearance at the Community Christmas Concert at St. Andrew Catholic Church on Inglewood Street in Rochester.
FRIDAY, DEC. 8 | THE CAMPUS OF ROCHESTER COLLEGE STUDENT PRESENTATIONS | 9:45 A.M.-6:05 P.M. POSTER SESSIONS | 3:55-4:45 P.M. For a complete schedule, see the following pages.
FRIDAY, DEC. 8 | ST. PAUL’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH • ROCHESTER, MI | 8 P.M. “LET THERE BE PEACE ON EARTH” CONCERT The Rochester College Alumni Chorus will perform with the Rochester Symphony Orchestra in this Christmas Concert at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church on Romeo Street in Rochester. Tickets available at the door.
THURSDAY-SATURDAY, DEC. 7-9, 7:30 P.M. & SUN. DEC. 10, 2 P.M. | ROCHESTER COLLEGE GOLD ROOM THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES BY ROGER BEAN This smash off-Broadway hit introduces Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy and Suzy, four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts, as they attend their 1958 Springfield High School prom. First learn about their lives and loves, as the girls sing classic ‘50s hits including “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” “Stupid Cupid” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.” Featuring more than 30 classic ’50s and ’60s hits, The Marvelous Wonderettes will keep the audience smiling in this must-take musical trip down memory lane!
rochester college
|
academic symposium 2017
FRIDAY, DEC. 8 Business 1 Presentation—Auditorium East, 9:45-11 a.m. Elliot Ackerman, Brandon Anderich, Dean Gordon, Griffin Holt: Tesla Motors
Concurrent Session A: 11:10 a.m.–12:25 p.m. Business 2—Auditorium East Samuel Berry, Matthew Gross, Frederico Prest, Abigail Wasil, Christopher Williford: Arctic Cat Mathematics 1 & Leadership 1—Ham Library 112 Emily Hall & Breanna Bianchi: Growth Mindset Michele Demski: The Diplomat Madeleine Albright: First Woman to Become U.S. Secretary of State Biology 1—Ham 115 Nicholas Buccellato: Effects of Carbohydrates on Blood Glucose Levels Kyle Truscott: The Effects of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussion
Concurrent Session B: 1:10–2:25 p.m. Business 3—Auditorium East Marisa Jurczak, Jenn Parker, Amanda Pipesh: Constellation Brands Mass Communication 1—Ham Library 112 Katelyn Breton: How Teen Mom Has Negative Influences on Teenage Women Elisha Eubanks: Media and Politics Kellie Hayes: Ethics: Advertising Violent Video Games to Teens and Children MacKenzie Ings: The Power of Suggestion in “The Little Mermaid” Sarah Luckadoo: “Snow White:” A Bad Role Model For Girls? History I—Ham Library 113 Jonathon Hogan: The Effects of the Norman Conquest: An Analysis of Post-Conquest Britain Elizabeth Warner: The Impact of Society on the Leadership Styles of George Washington and Napoleon Bonaparte General Science 1—Ham Library 115 Ashlee Holland: Type I Juvenile Diabetes Troy Justice: Battling the New Age of Street Drugs
Concurrent Session C: 2:35–3:50 p.m. Business 4—Auditorium East Lauren Ellis, Sharion Hopson, Tia Jackson, Deven Kulkarni: Ford Motor Company Psychology 1—Auditorium West Maureen Bennett: Feminine Perception of Comic Centric Heroine Art John Der-Ghazarian: Examining Smartphone Attachment Between Urban and Rural Zip Codes Brittany Maul: The Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Levels of Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem in Female to Male Transgender Individuals Mass Communication 2—Ham Library 112 Ryan McEvoy: Why Net Neutrality is Important Amanda Rogers: Marvel Makes Captain America a Hydra Agent Chelsea Steier: Discrimination Against Pit Bulls Emily Valin: Sexual Objectification by Tom Ford Richard Yager II: The Influence of Video Games on a Child’s Psychosocial Behaviors Ministry 1—Ham Library 113 Stephanie Morris: Community Involvement Lukas Setzler: Adaptive Leadership in the Church English—Ham Library 115 Chelsea Payton: Blood Memories
Poster Session I: 3:55–4:20 p.m. Hallway of Ham Library
History Jonathon Hogan: A View of Post-Conquest England: Its Changes, Continuities, and Impact Interdisciplinary Studies Keearra Brown: An Invisible Hunger Taylor Hice: Social Comparisons on Social Media Causes People to “Nosedive” Psychology Zachary Bourcier & Heather Siedhoff: Demonstration of Visual Perception and Illusion and How Loss of Visual Cortex Function Results in Visual Decline Jade Smith & Veronica Moore: Demonstration of Temporary Re-wiring of Sensorimotor Perception to Adopt a Rubber Hand Theatre Malina Lyons: Acting and the Union of the Body, the Mind, and the Soule Samantha DeVries: “Wit:” Becoming a Vessel for Truth Through Research and Art
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Poster Session II: 4:20–4:55 p.m. Hallway of Ham Library
English Chelsea Payton: Blood Memories General Science Ashlee Holland: Type I Juvenile Diabetes Troy Justice: Battling the New Age of Street Drugs Interdisciplinary Studies Rubiana Goskolli: The Psychology of Eating and Fitness Musical Theatre Nicole Mullaly: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Capstone Project Psychology Maureen Bennett: Feminine Perception of Comic Centric Heroine Art John Der-Ghazarian: Examining Smartphone Attachment Between Urban and Rural Zip Codes Brittany Maul: The Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Levels of Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem in Female to Male Transgender Individuals
Ministry 2 Presentations: 4:50–6:05 p.m. Ministry 2—Ham Library 113 Kyle Murphy: Clarifying the Identity of a Church Erika Schmeck: Sons and Daughters in the New Creation Alvin Thomas: Contrasting Leadership in the Book of Acts with the Indian Community in the Metro-Detroit Area
Electronic Posters: Early Childhood Studies Renee Clark: Learning Beyond the Horizon Casey Miller: The Real Cost of Early Childhood Development: Funding for Early Education Centers Leadership Chrissy Demkin: The Leadership of Jesus Christ Elisa Eldeir: Mother Teresa: A True Saint Danielle Krolczyk: Together We Lead Katie Kudialis: The Legendary Leadership of Bill Gates Joyce Murray: Nelson Mandela: A Definition of a Pinnacle Leader Linda Quast: John C. Maxwell: Defining Leadership Lateisha Shaffer-Kirkland: Michelle Obama: A Phenomenal Woman & Leader Mass Communication Guy Courts: Russian Disruption Psychology Sophia Kendra: Schizophrenia and Treatment, Perceptions from Within: A Qualitative Review
Maureen Bennett Major: Psychology Hometown: Grosse Pointe Woods, MI Feminine Perception of Comic Centric Heroine Art In contemporary pop culture with relation to comic book art, feminine objectification is often seen throughout. Research suggests that comic book art is drawn from male psyche and portrays women in physically drawn poses and unachievable body images that lend to the objectification of women throughout society. To understand and evaluate feminine perception of comic centric heroines in art and illustrations, this study conducted a survey of over 75 women to solicit their views on two popular comic book heroines. All survey information was kept confidential and participants were required to sign a consent stating such fact. The study’s purpose is to analyze data based on the participant’s religion, age, education and working status to categorize responses on feminine perception of comic centric heroine art. Mentor: Professor Ahmar Zaman Katelyn Breton Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Clinton Township, MI How Teen Mom Has Negative Influences on Teenage Women This case study is about how the show Teen Mom can have a negative influence on teenage women. It is organized using the Potters Box. The conclusion is that teenage women who watch Teen Mom are more likely to have negative views about themselves, have relationship issues and treat others harshly. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Keearra Brown Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Psychology and General Science Hometown: Chesterfield, MI An Invisible Hunger One of the largest health issues in the United States is overeating and the eating behaviors of young women. High school girls go through major changes when transitioning from middle school to high school. The struggle with stress levels, family issues and mental disorders such as depression are major factors that relate to eating habits. This paper should show that all of these problems go back to the core issue of self–esteem. This could be the main focus because these issues all tend to start at home, school or in their own head. Self-esteem is something many people struggle with on a daily basis and can really cause many changes in a person’s eating behavior. In my research I was able to find numerous studies that link self-esteem to eating behaviors, stress levels and family issues. Adolescent girls can overcome overeating, but it seems it would be easier to do if they knew the cause. The next step is to find a way to fix this issue that so many girls continue to struggle with. Mentors: Dr. Catherine Parker and Dr. Mark Manry
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Nicholas Buccellato Major: Biology Hometown: Shelby, MI Effects of Carbohydrates On Blood Glucose Levels This report presents the results of a 10-week study that explored the effects of two different diets on blood glucose levels and blood pressure, and subsequent research. This study incorporated a standard American diet followed by a ketogenic diet to examine the effects of carbohydrates on these two areas. Blood pressure and blood glucose levels were measured throughout the day, along with daily food intake to ensure calorie and macronutrient requirements were met within the diets studied. The information gathered and the research conducted led to informative, interesting and sometimes surprising results. Mentor: Professor Vivian Turner Guy Courts Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Flint, MI Russian Disruption This poster will examine Russian interference in the American democratic process through Facebook advertisements and groups. We will use the TARES test to dissect the ethical value of such ads that were circulated through social media outlets to the American public. We must first determine if the ads are truthful and if their claims are authentic. This question may seem easy to some, but we have to examine how the deception resonated with such a large number of American voters. The next issue we face is that of respect towards the receiver. Was the sender acting responsibly and respectfully when disseminating the information? We will decide if there is equity between the sender and the receiver of the message. Lastly, we will discuss the social responsibility of the information to determine whether these advertisements benefited society. Seventeen separate intelligence offices determined Russian entities meddled in our 2016 election processes. The information presented here brings a closer look into media literacy and the potential damage that can be done due to a lack thereof. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Chrissy Demkin Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Warren, MI The Leadership of Jesus Christ Jesus was a preacher and a religious leader. He is the son of God and He died for our sins. He ate with criminals and forgave them. He stood up for people for their wrongdoing. His teachings taught us what is right and what is wrong. Jesus also did healings to the blind, sick, cripple, etc. Throughout my entire life, my family and I regularly attended church. Religion is very important to me. I have always maintained a strong relationship with our Lord and my faith. Jesus did so many sacrifices because He loves us and He loves God. I look up to Jesus and I always try to do the right thing. Every time I decide on something, I always think, “What would Jesus do?” Would this be the path I should be going on? My relationship with God has become deeper. I try to involve Him in my everyday life. I talk to Him about my issues or what I should do about certain situations. I try to be the best person I can be. Jesus is my role model. It’s not a celebrity or a superhero because I feel they are not real. I don’t know them but I know Jesus. I know His work and I know what He did for us. Jesus has become a part of me. I don’t know what I would do without Him. If it wasn’t for him, I would not be where I am today. I will continue to keep Him in my life and go by his teachings throughout my journey on earth. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin
Michele Demski Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Rochester, MI The Diplomat Madeleine Albright: First Woman to Become U.S. Secretary of State In 1996, President Bill Clinton nominated Madeleine Jana Corbel Albright for Secretary of State, and the United States Senate unanimously confirmed her nomination. On January 23, 1997, Albright was sworn in as the 64th Secretary of State. She became the highest-ranking female within the United States government. She also became the first woman to hold this position. This presentation will demonstrate why Albright is one of the most admired women leaders in U.S. history and for women and girls throughout the world. She has a remarkable personal story that includes her upbringing in war-torn Europe and the balancing of career and family responsibilities. Albright’s impressive career highlights a combination of scholarly research and teaching, speaker, American businessperson and political activities, making her a Pinnacle Leader. She has created a legacy of leadership that will influence future women leaders to make a positive difference in business and politics. Albright was a high-level participant in some of the most dramatic events in our time. To help create change, Albright is a transformational leader who has become a strong role model for her followers. She has s strong set of moral values and a self-determined sense of identity. She is confident, competent and articulate, and expresses strong ideals. She listens to her followers and encourages opposing viewpoints as a transformational, Pinnacle Leader. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin John Der-Ghazarian Major: Psychology Hometown: Columbus, MI Examining Smartphone Attachment Between Urban and Rural Zip Codes The present study looks to examine smartphone attachment between individuals living in rural and urban areas. Smartphone overusage is resulting in unhealthy attachment levels, even smartphone addictions. A key element that appears to surface in terms of problematic smartphone attachment levels is that of stress. Stress is shown to be considerably elevated in urban environments where its chronic presence leads to higher instances of mental illness and schizophrenia. By contrast, nature has been shown to be extremely beneficial to lowering stress. In light of this, it is hypothesized that individuals who live in rural zip codes will have lower levels of smartphone attachment as compared with individuals in urban zip codes. To test this hypothesis, individuals who use smartphones (18 years or older) will be asked to complete a survey consisting of six demographics question (including their zip code) and the 20-question Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) to examine attachment. However, prior to the administration of this survey, participants will fill out an official Rochester College informed consent document in order to ensure confidentiality. Following the collection of the data, the power analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics in the form of an independent samples t-test will be conducted using SPSS. Mentor: Professor Ahmar Zaman
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Elisa Eldeir Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI Mother Teresa: A True Saint Mother Teresa was a true saint. When I was a child, she was the one saint I would hear about the most. In fact, my parents have my middle name as Terese. They had Mother Teresa in mind when choosing my middle name. It was actually supposed to be “Teresa,” but my father made a mistake on my birth certificate and wrote “Terese.” I am fine with that, as it is still beautiful and close enough. Mother Teresa was a “Pinnacle Leader.” A “Pinnacle Leader” is truly gifted. This is Maxwell’s Fifth Level of Leadership and known as a “legacy.” This level of leadership is very rarely reached. It can be difficult because not only does one have to lead well for a long time, you must continue to guide others and develop them so they are able to reach Level Four. Level Four is “Leader Development.” Level Five is where people follow you because of who you are and what you represent. Level Five Leaders are a cut above the rest. That is why very few leaders make it to this level. Level Five Leaders have so much influence, which allows them to soar above any organization they work in or any industry they serve. To achieve the Pinnacle Leadership Level, you must show you’re a caring individual. Very few leaders ever reach this level during their lifetime. As many of us know, Mother Teresa was one of the few leaders to achieve “Pinnacle Leadership.” Mother Teresa was a Roman Catholic nun who devoted her life to serving the poor and impoverished all over the world. She spent many years of her life in Calcutta, India where she learned to speak Bengali and founded the Missionaries of Charities. During the course of her life, Mother Teresa was devoted to helping those in great need. She became a saint on Sept. 4, 2016. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin Elisha Eubanks Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Flint, MI Media and Politics The news scandal over the leaked tapes of Donald Trump’s lewd conversation with Billy Bush from 2005 just before the 2016 presidential elections brought a vast amount of controversy regarding the ethical standards of the news media involving politics, the conduct of media and political officials and the influence of the media on political elections and understanding of political figures. This case will be analyzed using the journalistic TARES test, which will determine the ethical standards of the media’s conduct in this instance. Overall, this incident has left a negative impression of the news media and its actions regarding this information; the media will need to strive for more objective journalistic reporting in the future. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper
Rubiana Goskolli Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Psychology and Natural Science Hometown: Troy, MI The Psychology of Eating and Fitness The purpose of this research study is to develop a clear understanding of the psychological factors to poor nutrition and fitness for many individuals. The research was quantitative and focused on the development of making lifestyles changes to better one’s overall well-being and lifestyle. Furthermore, it focused on understanding that healthy eating habits use food for energy and fuel. My primary goal is to help individuals develop an enjoyable pathway to health success. I found that individuals are motivated to start making healthy changes for a short term but don’t turn it into a lifestyle. Much of the literature I reviewed confirmed that nutrition and fitness has a direct effect on neurotransmitters which are important in sending messages from the body to the brain. Specific dietary components were shown to have negative effects in our body, which begs the question, why don’t individuals do anything about it? My goal is to help individuals become future-orientated and value their health, body and mind. Mentor: Dr. Catherine Parker Breanna Bianchi & Emily Hall Majors: Mathematics Hometowns: New Baltimore, MI & Marysville, MI Growth Mindset Growth mindset, a recent trend in education, stems from Carol Dweck’s 2006 publication, Mindset. She distinguishes between two types of mindsets that students take on that have the power to affect their lives positively or negatively. The two mindsets a student can possess are either fixed or growth mindsets. Dweck advocates that educators instill a growth mindset within their students for a variety of reasons, in which Bianchi and Hall discuss. In their presentation, they describe growth mindset and summarize Dweck’s research as to why it is so effective in the classroom setting. They then combine research from Jo Boaler’s publication, Mathematical Mindsets, to link the two ideas together. There will also be a discussion on ways to implement mindset in the everyday classroom setting in order to maximize academic achievement in mathematics; Bianchi and Hall will use these tools in their future classrooms to empower students and ultimately lead them to success. Mentor: Dr. Gary Turner Kellie Hayes Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Birmingham, MI Ethics: Advertising Violent Video Games to Teens and Children The effects video games have on children have been long debated. Do they make children less social and more prone to violent behavior? Many of the video game ads are offensive and contain sexism and violence—that’s just the cover. The big debate about video games is whether or not it is ethical for violent, addictive and sexual video games to be marketed to children and teens. Does these games cause negative effects or is it simply harmless fun? To analyze this topic further, I will be using the TARES test, along with facts and statistics. I will be supporting the TARES test with ethical theory. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Taylor Hice Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: Psychology and Mass Communication Hometown: Auburn Hills, MI Social Comparisons on Social Media Causes People to “Nosedive” This is an original case study focusing on how social media affects a person’s online identity by delving into Black Mirror’s episode, “Nosedive.” People today are enticed to project an inauthentic version of themselves on social media sites. The motivation to project an alternative identity or maintain a facade of a perfect life in a virtual social system can be attributed to social comparison to others doing the same thing. Social identity theory sheds light on the phenomenon by explaining how people feel the need to conform to what others are doing or posting, or else they will not feel included in the group. “Nosedive” is an uncomfortably familiar representation of how social media can cause people to change in order to conform to social norms and receive social affirmation. The show critically examines ways people present themselves to have people rate them highly, to get more likes, to gain more followers and ultimately to be accepted. It also shows the unfortunate breakdown that comes after a person cannot handle the pressure to keep up a false identity. The inauthenticity of an online persona often permeates into the real world and people get lost between who they truly are and who they are in pursuit of becoming. Mentors: Dr. Catherine Parker and Dr. Mark Manry Jonathon Hogan Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Tallmadge, OH The Effects of the Norman Conquest: An Analysis of Post-Conquest Britain The Norman Conquest: a pivotal turning point in English history. In 1066, a foreign army comprised of the men and knights of Normandy and continental Europe led by William, Duke of Normandy, successfully defeated the local Anglo-Saxon army, led by the Harold Godwinson King of England. After this victory, England underwent an incredible and fundamental change. The island nation changed from a disunited series of kingdoms to a fully united kingdom under Norman’s guidance. That is only one version of the story. In the minds of others, the events of 1066 only hastened a change already beginning in England. Even though names such as Harold, Stigand and Morcar were replaced by names like William, LanFranc and Robert, the undergirding changes in England did not come with the new arrivals. Whatever the true narrative is, it is quite clear the Norman Conquest changed England in many different ways. Was the Norman Conquest an evolutionary change only altered by new overlords, or was the conquest a revolutionary change brought about by the new vision carried to England by the Normans? It is a far truer statement to say England was changed in both ways by Normandy’s conquest of England. Through research gathered in the arenas of society, politics and the economy, the complex tapestry of England’s change will be explained and dissected. Mentor: Dr. David Greer
Ashlee Holland Major: Biology Hometown: Macomb, MI Type I Juvenile Diabetes Every day, many individuals are diagnosed with Juvenile Type I Diabetes. Due to various reasons, the immune system attacks the pancreas, eventually making it unable to produce the insulin needed to remove glucose from the bloodstream. Unable to find a cure, patients diagnosed with this disease are left taking several insulin injections a day and pricking their fingers multiple times. Many individuals diagnosed with this disease are left asking questions such as: what, really, is diabetes?; what symptoms should they look out for; what is the epidemiology of the disease; how are they going to monitor and treat it; and what are the causes of the disease? When I was 11 years old, I was diagnosed with Juvenile Type I Diabetes. Similar to the millions of others diagnosed with this disease, I was left asking some of the same questions. Everyday I wonder how many more times I’ll have to prick my finger, or what different treatments I could do to make the situation better or if there will ever be a cure. In hopes of finding more information on the root of the disease, different treatments, possible trials that can lead to a cure, and even environmental effects on the disease, I conducted the following research. This research focuses on what diabetes is and its various causes, different factors used to diagnose a patient, different symptoms to look out for, the epidemiology of the disease, different treatments and possible cures. Although there still isn’t a cure, research is being conducted daily to eventually end the dependence on insulin injections and finger pricks to control Type I Juvenile Diabetes. Mentor: Dr. Michael Muhitch MacKenzie Ings Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI The Power of Suggestion in “The Little Mermaid” A scene in the 1989 movie, “The Little Mermaid,” will be evaluated to prove the power of suggestion for young children is dangerous and unethical in Disney movies. The TARES test will be used to evaluate Ariel giving up her voice (soul) to the devil (Ursula) in order to find love, which could suggest to young children that actions such as these are acceptable. Using the Communitarianism theory, it is argued that the effect on the community or group is more important than what an individual may think. The author believes the effect of Disney princesses on children, specifically Ariel in this case, is a problem due to the suggested expectation that one can give up their most precious values and attributes in order to search for love. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Troy Justice Major: Biology Hometown: Detroit, MI Battling the New Age of Street Drugs The distribution and use of illicit drugs like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, etc. were the norm for law enforcement and forensic drug analysis. In the past year, new and more powerful drugs have hit streets across the county. These new drugs have caught law enforcement and forensic scientists off guard and have put lives at risk on a much higher level. The procedure of collection and the analysis protocol for properly processing these drugs that are to be considered as evidence has increasingly become more dangerous. Illicit drug handling and analysis is forever changed. In this manuscript, the quickly adapted newer techniques and procedures for handling and processing drugs will be compared to those of the past. The new age of drugs has completely changed how forensic drug analyzers do their important jobs. Mentor: Dr. Michael Muhitch
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Sophia Kendra Major: Psychology Hometown: Warren, MI Schizophrenia, Treatment and Perceptions from Within: A Qualitative Review The brain is by far the most complex organ within the human body, therefore the disorders that follow is as equally complex. Schizophrenia is a challenging disorder that often makes it difficult for one to distinguish between what is real and unreal, to think clearly, manage emotions, relate to others and function normally. Schizophrenia can be both a stressful and an emotional experience for all involved; those who suffer from this disorder and their loved ones being affected by the symptoms (Ash, 2015). Therefore, a crucial factor exists to not only understand both the biological and psychological science behind this disorder, but also understand it through the eyes of the beholder and how they experience this disease. Schizophrenia is an incredibly complex disorder that has increasingly been recognized as a collection of different disorders. With just 60 percent of those diagnosed seeking some form of treatment, it has also been viewed from a developmental perspective, with full psychosis representing a late stage of the disorder, fueling the hope that early, intense interventions may provide greater help to people in the long term. For this study, the student researcher will be seeking out individual perceptions of the most helpful treatments (therapy and medication) for those suffering with schizophrenia. The student will also be maintaining confidentiality of all participants involved, and after the data is collected, it will be analyzed through SPSS. This study will be conducted in hopes for the student to understand the individual perceptions of treatment from a sample of those who are diagnosed schizophrenic. Mentor: Professor Ahmar Zaman Danielle Krolczyk Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Together We Lead The presentation will include a brief biography on the retired Marine Corps General, James Mattis. The presentation will include testimony from General Mattis’ prior soldiers, an insight to his leadership style and reasoning behind his ways. Furthermore, the presentation will use John Maxwell’s work regarding the Level 5 leadership position; Pinnacle. To continue, the presentation will compare the leadership characteristics of James Mattis with the characteristics described by Maxwell and other former leadership author texts. Lastly, a leadership theory will be applied to the General’s leadership style and explain the strengths of the theory that helped him pursue success as a leader. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin
Katie Kudialis Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Clinton Township The Legendary Leadership of Bill Gates Bill Gates has always been passionate about computers, which led him to create the programming language BASIC and MS-DOS program for IBM. Gates attributes his success more to rolling up his sleeves and putting in a lot of hard work, rather than having an innovative idea. Gates is best known as a humble visionary who seeks council from others and cares a lot about people. As a Pinnacle Leader within the Microsoft organization, Gates has helped others by mentoring, imparting knowledge, sharing his experiences and leveraging his own personal power to provide the necessary resources to improve lives and careers. Outside the Microsoft organization, Gates spends considerable money and time on philanthropic causes. The Gates Foundation has donated billions of dollars to causes all over the world. Gates is often described as a transformational leader. Transformational leadership is a leadership approach that causes change in individuals and social systems. Transformational leaders create positive valuable change with the goal of developing their followers into leaders. Gates worked tirelessly at building talent within the Microsoft organization, shared his significant technical knowledge with followers and created an extensive plan of giving back. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin Sarah Luckadoo Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Roseville, MI Snow White: A Bad Role Model For Girls? This study was used to examine the story of Snow White. The examination of this story shows that Snow White’s story is a bad role model for little girls. While examining this story, The Potter Box was used to summarize all parts of why this story is not a good example of how women should be in society today, and how little girls can have images in their minds of how these characters are who they want to be when they grow up. The Potter Box will define the facts, values, principles and loyalties of the Snow White story, with greater detail in between and questions at the end of the study. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Brittany Maul Major: Psychology Hometown: Hampton, VA The Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on Levels of Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Esteem in Female to Male Transgender Individuals The current study utilized the online social media platforms Facebook and Reddit, Google forms and an anonymous survey to examine the effects of the menstrual cycle on transgender individuals who are transitioning from female to male. Specific effects of the menstrual cycle that were examined include levels of anxiety, depression and self-esteem. Participants were all individuals ages 18 years and older. The majority of the participants identified themselves as Caucasian, and a great majority of participants also designated the United States as their country of residence. Confidentiality was kept as individuals did not provide their name or any other personal identifying information with the exception of an email address to which the Rochester College informed consent form was sent. The primary researcher has been the only individual with access to participants’ email addresses. Participants first completed the consent form and then the online survey using Google Forms. The survey consisted of a questionnaire requesting demographic and background information, as well as an anxiety and depression scale and a self-esteem scale. Data was collected through Google Forms, transferred to a spreadsheet and then analyzed with the SPSS program. Mentor: Professor Ahmar Zaman
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Ryan McEvoy Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Warren, MI Why Net Neutrality is Important Net neutrality is a vital part of our freedoms on the internet and protects our freedoms of speech just as the First Amendment does. With Net Neutrality, governments and service providers have to treat all data on the internet the same, without discrimination. It also prevents them from charging different rates based on user, content or websites. To analyze why it is unethical to end net neutrality, the Potter Box method is used. The current administration will soon be voting and will likely vote to kill net neutrality. If this happens, the users of the internet will lose out on freedoms in which they currently enjoy and small businesses will not be able to compete. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Casey Miller Major: Early Childhood Studies Hometown: Lake Orion, MI The Real Cost of Early Childhood Development: Funding for Early Education Centers This presentation is a grant proposal for the needs of an early childhood education center after three years of being open. The center is looking to expand curriculum learning beyond their current scope. As one of only a handful of early childhood centers in a lower demographic area, it is crucial to have the funding for appropriate materials. A detailed narrative and budget will be fully described and justify the need for funding. The center is looking to continue to expand and enhance early learning services in the community and surrounding county. Mentor: Dr. DruAnne Kilpatrick Stephanie Morris Major: Urban Ministry Hometown: Fair Haven, MI Community Involvement This presentation examines Luke’s view of poverty alongside notions of Asset Based Community Development to help inform the practice of urban congregations, especially as they express care for children in their communities. Mentor: Dr. Mark Love Kyle Murphy Major: Biblical Studies Hometown: Mount Clemons, MI Clarifying the Identity of a Church This presentation focuses on the importance and identity of the church as articulated in the book of Ephesians. For a congregation experiencing conflict around issues of identity, managing polarities is offered as a way to both engage the conflict and model a healthy understanding of the church. Mentor: Dr. Mark Love
Joyce Murray Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Montrose, MI Nelson Mandela: A Definition of a Pinnacle Leader What describes a Pinnacle Leader? Leaders have many levels of leadership they need to master in order to become a great mentor. This capstone project will discuss the transformational leadership approach Nelson Mandela practiced during his lifetime and show he was a very charismatic man who developed good relationships with his followers. Mandela’s goal was to bring his people out of apartheid, and his values were so strong that he was even imprisoned for it. He kept very true to his principles, and when released from prison, went on to become president. He used his strengths of leadership to find a strategy for his long-term goal of leading his people out of oppression. This paper will also be addressing the characteristics in Nelson Mandela’s leadership and the influence he used in order to get people to want to follow him and strive to accomplish all he has. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin Linda Quast Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Shelby Township, MI John C. Maxwell: Defining Leadership This capstone project will define John C. Maxwell’s (2011, The 5 levels of Leadership: Proven Steps to Maximize Your Potential. New York: Center Street) “Level 5” or “Pinnacle Leader.” According to Maxwell (2011), the five levels of leadership are position, permission, production, people development and level 5: Pinnacle (p. vii-ix). For a Pinnacle Leader, his or her “highest accomplishment is developing other leaders to Level 4” (Maxwell, 2011, p. ix). In other words, a Pinnacle Leader strives to do something greater than himself or herself (Maxwell, 2011, p. 243). Secondarily, this project will identify a Level 5 leader and analyze how this leader embodies the qualities of a Pinnacle Leader. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin Chelsea Payton Major: English Hometown: Warren, MI Blood Memories “Blood Memories” is a collection of confessional poetry from Chelsea Payton, 21 year old graduating senior in the English Department, that deals with topics of family, friendship and womanhood. This creative project involves different forms of poetry, including sonnets, spoken word poems and freeverse poems. Throughout “Blood Memories,” Payton explores themes of memory, abuse and love. Even though Payton does not shy away from difficult subjects in this collection, she tries to leave her readers with a sense of hope and unity. The message readers should take away from “Blood Memories” is that everyone has their own struggles but nobody is ever truly alone. In preparation for this project, Payton read poetry from famous confessional poets of the past. She has also done a great deal of research on memoirists who write about difficult subjects. Some of her biggest influences include Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton, Kim Addonzio, Sharon Olds and Denise Duhamel. Mentor: Professor Zachary Watson
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Amanda Rogers Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Clemens, MI Marvel Makes Captain America a Hydra Agent There was a lot of controversy and many upset fans when the Marvel company decided to make a dramatic change to one of their most beloved characters, Captain America. At the end of the first issue of the comic book series, Captain America, Steve Rogers, the iconic superhero, reveals he is aligned with the villainous group Hydra, which most readers associate with Nazis, a significant shift in his storyline. Applying the Potter Box model and the utilitarianism principle, Amanda analyzes the facts, values, principles and loyalties from the viewpoint of a Marvel executive, concluding that the continuation of the storyline and Marvel’s reaction to the concerns of their audience was unethical. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Erika Schmeck Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Rochester, MI Sons and Daughters in the New Creation This presentation explores the implications of the momentous events of Pentecost for public leadership roles related to women in the church. With those implications in mind, questions related to adaptive change become prominent. How do organizations make deep adaptive changes and make new sense of their beliefs and practices. Mentor: Dr. Mark Love Lukas Setzler Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Monroe, MI Adaptive Leadership in the Church Lukas is using the Gospel of Matthew to look at adaptive leadership in the church. As one of the major themes, he will look at how Jesus teaches that mercy is greater than sacrifice. He also will discuss how this plays into being a disciple of Jesus, and making more disciples in the church. Mentor: Dr. Mark Love Lateisha Shaffer-Kirkland Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Detroit, MI Michelle Obama: A Phenomenal Woman & Leader Michelle Obama is known as America’s 44th First Lady of the United States, the wife of our 44th President, Barack Obama. She is also known as the first African American First Lady in American history. The basis of this project is to align Michelle Obama’s leadership to John Maxwell’s definition of a Pinnacle leader and Northouse definition of Path-Goal Theory. As a leader, Obama emulates components of a supportive leader. This research includes her biography, leadership role and connection to various communities of American citizens. The focus is to emphasize her role as a supportive leader who is friendly, approachable and attends to the well-being and human needs of followers. Obama is one of the most influential women in America because of who she is and what she represents. The findings will helps us understand how Obama’s behavior and characteristics of Path-Goal Theory makes her a Pinnacle leader and what it takes to get to that level of leadership. Mentor: Dr. Matthew Calfin
Heather Siedhoff & Zachary Bourcier Majors: Psychology Hometown: Granite City, IL & Warren, MI Demonstration of Visual Perception and Illusion and How Loss of Visual Cortex Function Results in Visual Decline The human eye consists of two types of photoreceptors: rods and cones. While rods are known to operate at lower levels of light, cones are responsible for viewing color and operate with brighter levels of light. Observations that occipital lobe damage leads to visual illusions, visual associations and word blindness (Molday, & Moritz, 2015) indicate that communication between photoreceptors and this region of the brain contribute to the visual perception. Our presentation will utilize the visual illusion of the Lilac Chaser to demonstrate how the human eye can see something that is not really in front of them, which is thought to result from the weakening of photoreceptors. An additional video will illustrate the visual decline that follows occipital lobe damage. Mentor: Dr. Kelly Bosse Jade Smith & Veronica Moore Majors: Psychology Hometowns: Warren, MI & Rochester Hills, MI Demonstration of Temporary Re-wiring of Sensorimotor Perception to Adopt a Rubber Hand Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change in response to experience. Particularly, senses we use to detect and understand our environment adapt and change as we develop and experience different external stimuli. If one sense is used more effectively, it can impair or dampen the sense of another. We will be conducting a demonstration to show how the brain can temporarily rewire itself to adopt a rubber hand when one’s own hand is out of visual range. During this demonstration, the brain is believed to adapt the use of the rubber hand to compensate for the real hand that is hidden, indicating the brain no longer considers the hidden, real hand part of the body. Studies that have investigated this observation indicate that activity in the ventral premotor cortices, intraparietal cortices and cerebellum was associated with the illusion that touching a rubber hand would assimilate with one’s own real hand (Ehrsson, Holmes, & Passingham, 2005). Mentor: Dr. Kelly Bosse Chelsea Steier Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Marine City, MI Discrimination Against Pit Bulls Dogs—man’s best friend, the one creature who will stand by your side through thick and thin without hesitation. Dogs are beings who just want to be there for their owner and please them in any way they possibly can. Unfortunately, some breeds of dog have not gotten the right kind of attention because of how they look and how they have been stereotyped against for what they are. A pit bull is a muscular, short-haired, stocky dog that was originally developed for fighting and is noted for strength, stamina and tenacity (“Definition of PIT BULL”, 2017). This breed of dog has had a tough go of life all because of how they look and how owners have treated them. Certain stereotypes have been created based on what the owners of these dogs had them do in the past. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Alvin Thomas Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Macomb, MI Contrasting Leadership in the Book of Acts with the Indian Community in the Metro-Detroit Area While Pentecostal churches emphasize the immediate presence of the Holy Spirit, it is not always clear what that means for leadership in the church. This presentation focuses on the book of Acts alongside notions of adaptive leadership to clarify the work of transition in an immigrant Pentecostal congregation. Mentor: Dr. Mark Love
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Kyle Truscott Major: Biology Hometown: Port Huron, MI The Effects of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussion This study explores past and recent developments on mild traumatic brain injury and understanding the term “concussion” and what it entails. Research on what causes a concussion, the immediate and long term effects of concussion and how concussions are currently rehabilitated is studied. The differing effects of multiple concussions in adolescent and adult individuals, and the chemical processes within the brain that are affected by head trauma, will also be researched. The studies used will consist mostly of research on athletes. Mentor: Professor Vivian Turner Emily Valin Major: Media and Communication Hometown: Romeo, MI Sexual Objectification by Tom Ford In its 2007 ‘Tom Ford for Men’ fragrance campaign shot by Terry Richardson, Tom Ford uses a woman’s naked chest as a prop to display the product. This sustains the advertising industry’s long practice of demeaning and objectifying women’s bodies. Using the TARES test, I will show how this ad is unethical, untruthful, inauthentic, disrespectful, inequitable and not socially responsible. This test will prove it is unethical and should not have been run by the company. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper Elizabeth Warner Major: Interdisciplinary Studies: History and English Hometown: Grand Blanc, MI The Impact of Society on the Leadership Styles of George Washington and Napoleon Bonaparte George Washington and Napoleon Bonaparte were contemporaries who came from similar backgrounds. They were both upper class war heroes who gained power during a revolution, were well respected by their peers, and became famous leaders of their countries. Nevertheless, these men led their countries in vastly different directions, as seen in how Washington eventually relinquished his political power, whereas Napoleon constantly sought more of it. This paper will explore how the opposing values of their respective cultures led to the differences in Washington and Napoleon’s leadership styles. This will be done by examining the values of eighteenth century French and American society leading up to and during their respective revolutions. This paper will then analyze how these values were embodied and expressed in Washington and Napoleon’s leadership styles. Ultimately, this paper seeks to reveal how leaders are determined by and subject to the values upheld by their society. Mentors: Dr. Catherine Parker and Dr. Mark Manry Richard Yager II Major: Mass Communication Hometown: Rochester, MI The Influence of Video Games on a Child’s Psychosocial Behaviors With more American households having individuals who interact with video games regularly, there is a valid concern with what children might internalize. To some degree, many parents would concur that video games have taken over American homes. The question many parents and educators consider is: will video games listed as anything outside of the rating Early Childhood affect a child’s mind? This case study will evaluate the topic of the influence of video games on a child’s psychosocial behaviors using the Potter Box. It is vital to educate parents, caregivers and educators when regarding children and the usage of video games. Mentor: Dr. Carol Cooper
Four student groups will be presenting their strategic analyses of actual corporations: Tesla Motors, Ford Motor Company, Arctic Cat and Constellation Brands. Each group assumes the role of consultants, hired by the Board of Directors of the corporation to present a strategic plan to the board. The groups base their strategic analyses on information learned in courses that comprise Rochester College’s business core. Each student in the group presents a portion of the analysis, and each group also answers questions posed by a panel of business professionals. Mentor: Dr. Joseph Reddick
Arctic Cat Christopher Williford Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Macomb, MI Abigail Wasil Major: BBA, Social Entrepreneurship Hometown: Fraser, MI Matthew Gross Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Roseville, MI Frederico Prest Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Janeiro, Brazil Samuel Berry Major: BBA, Social Entrepreneurship Hometown: Flushing, MI
Constellation Brands Marisa Jurczak Majors: BBA, Management Hometown: Rochester, MI Jenn Parker Majors: BBA, Management Hometown: Lapeer, MI Amanda Pipesh Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Sterling Heights, MI
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Ford Motor Company Sharion Hopson Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Tuscaloosa, AL Deven Kulkarni Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Bloomfield Hills, MI Tia Jackson Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Detroit, MI Lauren Ellis Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI
Tesla Motors Griffin Holt Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Brandon Anderich Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Clinton Township, MI Elliot Ackerman Major: BBA, Management Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI Dean Gordon Major: BBA, Management Hometown: St. Johns, Newfoundland
Students in THE 4813 present a major creative or research project related to the theatrical arts.
Samantha DeVries Major: Theatre Hometown: Beamsville, Ontario Wit: Becoming a Vessel for Truth through Research and Art Samantha’s capstone project as a theatre major was the assignment of the role of Susie in Margaret Edson’s play, Wit. The process of the role included periods of research, rehearsal, performance and self-reflection. The period of research took place over the duration of six months with a main focus on researching the medical field, focusing on ovarian cancer and nursing, specifically the compassionate attributes that nurses emanate towards their patients. Extensive research was also done on the play itself, focusing on the playwright, past productions and critical reviews written on the play. Through the rehearsal period, the student focused on building her character and molding her work to match the vision of the director. The performance period was the time for the student to present her work to audiences, showcasing her skills and preparation. During the self-reflection period she assessed her growth through her time as a student at Rochester College, focusing on the progress she was able to make, specifically during her time with this capstone project. Mentor: Professor Robert Arbaugh
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
Malina Lyons Major: Theatre Hometown: Washington, MI Acting and the Union of the Body, the Mind, and the Soule For Malina Lyons’ capstone project, she played a professor of seventeenth-century poetry who has been diagnosed with stage-four metastatic ovarian cancer. She researched what the disease is and how it affects the body as well as the mind, along with the different types of treatments available for the disease and the side effects that come with them. She examined the symptoms of ovarian cancer and blended them into the physicality of her character. She also studied John Donne and his Holy Sonnets. She analyzed “Death, Be Not Proud” and observed the correlation between Donne (the speaker of the Holy Sonnets) and Vivian Bearing (her character in Wit). She brought awareness of the struggles of cancer and the profundity of life to an audience, and catharsis to those who have dealt with loss. Mentor: Professor Robert Arbaugh
Nicole Mullaly Major: Musical Theatre Hometown: Romeo, MI A Midsummer Night’s Dream Capstone Project Nicole’s capstone project as a musical theatre major consisted of the preparation and performance of the role of Helena in William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This process included historical and subject specific research, rehearsal, performance and a period of self-reflection. The research period extended over multiple months, focusing on historical research regarding the author, William Shakespeare, and period-relevant information pertaining to the culture of the time in order to better understand the work. This research period also included study of past performances of the work and different translations and folios. The rehearsal period consisted of the melding between academic research and artistic vision, to create a well-rounded character. This period was for Nicole to engage all of the skills acquired over years of academic and performance based theatre classes, and to showcase these skills in front of an audience. To conclude this capstone project, Nicole engaged is a period of self-reflection, in which she assessed the progress she has made throughout her years at Rochester College and her ability to translate that progress into performance. Mentors: Dr. Catherine Parker & Professor Robert Arbaugh
rochester college
|
academic symposium fall 2017
The classroom is a great place to learn insights for ministry. However, ministerial students need to have “hands on� experience as well, and ministry internships are designed to provide that opportunity. Under the supervision of an on-site mentor, each student must work with a church or para-church organization and must supplement that experience with written assignments and readings. Supervised by Dr. Mark Love Lukas Setzler Major: Christian Ministry Hometown: Monroe, MI Monroe Missionary Baptist Church, Monroe, MI Lukas worked primarily with the youth group of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church. Responsibilities included but were not limited to teaching the youth, helping to launch a youth discipleship class, preaching when called upon by the pastor, and planning for summer activities such as Summer Youth Camp, Vacation Bible School and many other youth events. He also worked with the worship pastor on scheduling the technical team and helped plan music for the worship choir. Many other roles and responsibilities were included when working with other staff members and pastors.
Strategic Leadership students are encouraged to complete an internship in addition to their courses during their time at Rochester College. These internships provide students with the practical experience necessary to enter the competitive business world. Supervised by Dr. Matthew Calfin
Danielle Krolczyk Major: Strategic Leadership Hometown: Shelby Township, MI Something You, Sterling Heights, MI The internship included the entire process of planning a large-scale event. Within this process, financials were accounted for and kept within budget, outside sources were interviewed and determined, and marketing and advertising was included. Furthermore, Danielle engaged in hosting the entire event to ensure the flow of the event, guest satisfaction and safety.