Ledford Scholars

By Katie Ray ’24

Ledford Scholar (n.): An undergraduate student at an Appalachian College Association member institution who receives funding for intensive research. The program provides up to $3,600 in stipends and $1,000 for expenses. Scholars complete their project under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

Wali Ghayur

“Mechanism of Estrogen-induced G Protein Activation in Coronary Artery”

Growing up in Eastern Kentucky, junior Wali Ghayur witnessed the devastating effects of cardiovascular disease in his community. This motivated him to research how estrogen influences coronary artery function, particularly through the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor. His findings contribute to understanding how vascular contractility and relaxation are affected by estrogen, with potential implications for cardiovascular health.

His mentor, Professor of Physiology Guichun Han, M.D., Ph.D., provided essential guidance in project design, critical analysis and laboratory methodologies. Weekly meetings and hands-on mentorship allowed Ghayur to refine his research techniques and troubleshoot experimental challenges.

“As a Ledford Scholar I had the opportunity to conduct research that directly impacts my community. It provided me with the resources and mentorship necessary to develop my skills in biomedical research and gain confidence in my ability to contribute to cardiovascular health.”

Kolton Hall ’25

“Folk Religious Ideas and Practices of Central Appalachia and Its Impact on Communal Belonging”

Recent graduate Kolton Hall’s ’25 lifelong interest in religious studies and his aspirations to become a priest led him to research the folk religious practices of Central Appalachia. Initially focused on Appalachian Christianity, his study expanded to include a variety of minority religious traditions and their impact on communal belonging.

Assistant Dean of Health and Wellness and University Chaplain Robert Musick, D.Min., was key in connecting Hall with difficult-to-access religious practitioners. Hall interviewed individuals from diverse backgrounds, including prisoners and snake-handling preachers, providing invaluable insights.

“The Ledford Scholarship allowed me to explore a subject I am truly passionate about. Without this funding and support, I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet these people, hear their stories and gain a deeper understanding of their beliefs.”

Connor McGuire

“The Role of Two Noncoding RNAs in Memory of Mice”

Fascinated by neuroscience, senior Connor McGuire set out to explore how noncoding RNAs influence memory formation. His research on Gm14964 suggested that variations in its expression could play a role in cognitive processes, potentially paving the way for future research into memory-related disorders.

Professor of Biochemistry Sujin Bao, Ph.D., guided McGuire through every stage of his research, from experimental design to data interpretation. His mentorship helped McGuire refine his findings and navigate the complexities of neuroscience research. Beyond technical support, he also encouraged McGuire to present his research and develop professionally, making a lasting impact on his academic growth.

“Being a Ledford Scholar has provided me with invaluable resources and support to conduct this research. It has also given me the opportunity to present my findings, network with other researchers, and refine my ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to a broader audience.”

Alexa Muha ’25

“Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Soil Samples from Southwestern Virginia and Eastern Kentucky”

Seeing the high prescription rate of antibiotics firsthand, recent graduate Alexa Muha’s ’25 study examined antibiotic resistance in rural soil samples, analyzing the effects of high antibiotic prescription rates on environmental bacterial resistance. Her research aimed to shed light on how antibiotic overuse contributed to public health challenges.

Assistant Professor of Biology Jessica Slade, Ph.D., provided guidance on data analysis and microbiological techniques. She was instrumental in assisting Muha with troubleshooting challenges, refining methods and ensuring that the findings were scientifically sound. Seeing resistance traits persist in natural environments reinforced the urgency of studying antibiotic resistance beyond clinical settings.

“Receiving the Ledford Scholarship has been an incredible opportunity that allowed me to dig deeper into a highlydiscussed topic while learning so many new things. The program provided financial support that made it possible to conduct field sampling and laboratory analysis.”

Ryan Price

“Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Techniques in Diabetes Prediction and Management in Eastern Kentucky”

As a young diabetic with a passion for data science, junior Ryan Price combined his personal experience with machine learning to develop a model that can accurately diagnose diabetes based on multiple data points. His research aimed to improve early detection of diabetes through artificial intelligence.

Information Technology Management Assistant Professor and Founding Program Coordinator Praveen Guraja, M.S., Ph.D., guided Price through the research process, helping him understand what people are looking for in a proposal and how to follow through with a project. Their collaboration allowed Price to develop a more precise prediction tool.

“The scholarship has heavily motivated me to keep practicing my coding skills and my understanding of data science. It has allowed me to be more attentive in class and more efficient in my learning process. I've seen my skills grow significantly, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world projects where I can make a meaningful impact.”

Eva Roach ’25

“Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Soil Samples from Southwestern Virginia and Eastern Kentucky”

With plans to attend the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine in the fall, recent graduate Eva Roach ’25 sought to explore how antibiotic resistance develops in rural environments. Her research revealed a significantly higher percentage of ciprofloxacin-resistant bacteria in Southwestern Virginia compared to Eastern Kentucky, raising important public health questions.

Assistant Professor of Biology Jessica Slade, Ph.D., played a crucial role in helping Roach perfect laboratory techniques and troubleshoot contamination issues. By allowing Roach to work independently, she gained confidence in microbiological research.

“This program has given me a new perspective on the subjects I studied in my degree, deepening my understanding and boosting my confidence. I know these experiences will have a lasting impact on my journey in medical school. I have also been able to present my research and network in a way that would not have been possible without the scholarship.”

Chase Stiltner

“Spirituality and Homelessness: Spiritual Needs and Practices of Homeless Persons in Rural Eastern Kentucky”

Recognizing the severity of homelessness in the area, senior Chase Stiltner’s research explored the spiritual needs of unhoused individuals in Eastern Kentucky. He found that most people in shelters felt their spiritual needs were being met but expressed a desire for more resources, such as Bible studies and transportation to churches.

Assistant Dean of Health and Wellness and University Chaplain Robert Musick, D.Min., provided guidance on structuring interviews and analyzing qualitative data. His mentorship helped Stiltner develop a research methodology suited to this unique population.

“Being a Ledford Scholar has taught me much more than I anticipated. It has helped me practice discipline in several areas, taught me appropriate research techniques and inspired me to keep learning. Overall, it has allowed me to exercise, refine and practice my skills.”

Erica Werth

“Determine the Mechanism of How Estrogen Promotes the Effect of Bradykinin on Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase”

With both of her grandfathers suffering from heart disease, senior Erica Werth wanted to explore ways to improve vascular function, particularly in underserved regions like Appalachia, where heart disease is a leading cause of mortality. Her research investigated how estrogen enhanced the effects of bradykinin on nitric oxide production in blood vessels. Her findings indicated that this process was mediated by the G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor, a discovery that could help develop targeted therapies for cardiovascular diseases.

Professor of Physiology Guichun Han, M.D., Ph.D., provided mentorship in experimental design and troubleshooting complex lab techniques, such as western blotting. Her guidance was crucial and provided Werth with valuable insight into cardiovascular research and scientific methodology.

“The Ledford Scholarship allowed me to engage in handson research, strengthen my technical skills and gain confidence in my ability to contribute to the scientific community. It has also opened doors for networking and future research opportunities.”