Academic Report 2023

Academic Report 2023

UTAH TECH ACADEMIC REPORT Editor-in-Chief Dr. Cheri Crenshaw Editor Autumn Nuzman Lead Designer Scott Garrett Photography Matt Black Jordan Palmer Alex Santiago Henryk Conley Joe Griffith Ethan Gallagher

PUBLICATION BOARD Dr. Michael Lacourse Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Jordon Sharp Vice President of Marketing & Communication Stacy Schmidt Assistant Director of Public Relations/Publications Jyl Hall Director of Public Relations Sarah Shurtliff Director of Academic Budget

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IN THIS REPORT 2

MESSAGE FROM THE PROVOST

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NEW ACADEMIC DEGREES & CERTIFICATES FEATURE STORIES

4 8 12 16 20 22 26 32 36

Regional Partnerships Prepare Students for Careers in Healthcare Utah Tech Nursing Programs Empower Student Success Utah Tech’s Functional Genomics Lab Prepares Students for Successful Careers 2023 Trailblazer Research Symposium Boasts Record Number of Presentations Students Get Technical with AI Engineering Students Primed for Success Through Hands-on Learning Utah Tech Students Help Develop ParksPass to Enhance Park Experiences Utah Tech Hosts the 2023 Global Polytechnic Summit Career Services Fosters Professional Success for Utah Tech Students

ACTIVE LEARNING. ACTIVE LIFE. 6 10 11 18 25 28 28 29 30 35 35

Digital Film Program Renovations Prepare Students for Success Utah Tech Now Offers Pre-Law Courses New Hotel and Resort Management Program Offers Hands-On Learning Students Gain Real-World Experience in Sports Broadcasting and Journalism Furthering the Evolution of Genomics Through Bioinformatics Students Participate in Community Research Projects and Economic Impact Studies Math Graduates Experience Unique Opportunities Through Utah Tech Chemistry Scholars: Journeys Beyond the Classroom Study Abroad Flourishes at Utah Tech Digital Forensics Crime Lab Director Takes Students to Singapore to Work with Interpol Students Serve in the Navajo Nation and Ugandan Refugee Camps

FACULTY, STAFF, AND STUDENTS 7 10 14 15 18 19 24 34

Human-Tech Speaker Series Explores Human Elements of a Technology-Focused World Accounting Professor Encourages Undergrad Research Using Sec Filings and Python Open Educational Resources Lead to Greater Student Success Emily Pereira: Endowed Chair for the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program The Dental Hygiene Program Celebrates its 25th Graduating Class and 100% Pass Rate The New Master of Fine Arts Degree Helps Students Be Great Dr. Stephen Armstrong and Dr. Cindy King: English Faculty Utah Tech Adds Humanities Center and Institute of Race, Gender, and Identity

UTAH TECH PATENTS, PUBLICATIONS, AND RESEARCH 38 40

Innovation Guidance and Solutions at Utah Tech Scholarly & Creative Activities Fall 2022 – Summer 2023

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University

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Message from the Provost Dear Friends, I am delighted to introduce the 2023 edition of the Utah Tech University (UT) Academic Report, showcasing the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of our students, faculty, and staff throughout the past year.

Continuing our tradition, I take pride in sharing that every story within this report is authored by a UT student. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that a significant number of the recognized students hail from Washington and Kane counties.

Our academic focus in the past year centered on launching new programs and research centers specializing in cutting-edge technologies, spanning from precision medicine and functional genomics to artificial intelligence and machine learning. We’ve diligently enhanced avenues for students to engage in transformative experiences, including undergraduate research, study abroad initiatives, and internships. Moreover, our commitment to fostering active learning experiences remains steadfast as we expand collaborations with companies and organizations locally, nationally, and globally to provide students with internships and active learning experiences.

Notably, we've introduced three new degree programs in hotel and resort management, foreseeing the burgeoning

Programs that support student success continue to

career prospects within the Black Desert Resorts and other

expand, and I am proud to report that our freshman to

developing hospitality ventures in our region.

sophomore retention rate achieved record levels, meaning that

In addition, this report showcases student achievements across diverse degree programs and underscores our triumphs in securing placements for students in esteemed post-graduate

more and more students will be successful in completing a degree and fulfilling their personal educational goals.

I take great pride in our faculty, staff, and students, and

programs, including prominent medical schools, law schools,

I warmly welcome you to delve into the 2023 Annual Report.

and various master’s and doctoral programs nationwide.

Discover the excellence of our academic programs and faculty,

Furthermore, the licensure pass rates for all our clinical health

along with the exceptional learn-by-doing opportunities

programs, notably nursing, shine both within the state and

available to UT students.

across the nation.

Sincerely,

Dr. Michael Lacourse Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

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NEW ACADEMIC DEGREES & CERTIFICATES Master's Degrees

Associate Degrees

MFA in Studio Art

AS/AAS in Hotel and Resort Management

MS in Sport Management

AA/AS in English

MS in Nursing Education and Leadership

Bachelor’s Degrees BS in Hotel and Resort Management

Certificates GIS (Geographic Information System) Editing and Publishing

BS in Data Science BS in Information Technology: Cyber Security BS in Information Technology: DevOps

Minors

BS in Theatre: Generalist

Environmental Humanities

BS in Theatre: Design/Technical

Philosophy

BS in Theatre: Acting

Political Science

BS in Theatre: Directing

Gender Studies

NEW ACADEMIC CENTERS FOR ACADEMIC YEAR 2022-2023 Center for Integrative Research on Health and Societal Equity Climate Change and Resilience Creative Studios The Humanities Center Institute of Race, Gender and Identity The UT Athletic Training Student Clinic

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University

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REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS PREPARE STUDENTS FOR CAREERS IN HEALTHCARE Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor Utah Tech University boasts an impressive 85% acceptance rate for students applying to medical school.

Both of these experiences are preparing Richards to graduate and apply to medical school.

The success of the university’s pre-medical programs can

“I have learned how important it is to apply for as many

largely be attributed to its commitment to active learning—a

opportunities as you can in order to get the experiences needed

hands-on, dynamic student-life approach to academic and

for medical school,” Richards said. “The pre-med programs

professional success.

heightened my awareness of the requirements for medical

The university creates real-world opportunities for students to practice the concepts they study in the classroom.

Utah Tech’s pre-medical students take advantage of these opportunities largely through interorganizational partnerships.

Amy Richards is a senior at Utah Tech University studying pre-medical social sciences. As a pre-med student, she has participated in an internship at St. George Regional Hospital

school, and so I learned quickly to look for experiences at Utah Tech that would help me find still more opportunities.”

Kylie Christensen is the director of the RUUTE program at the University of Utah School of Medicine. The program improves education, training, awareness, and healthcare accessibility in communities that lack such resources.

According to Christensen, undergraduate ambassadors

(SGRH) and in the Rural and Underserved Utah Training

build curricula designed to educate members of these

Experience (RUUTE) undergraduate ambassador program at

underserved communities. They then share their presentations

the University of Utah School of Medicine.

with students in age groups as young as elementary school.

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As an ambassador, Richards presented a lesson focused

Rather, my nurse manager looked to her nurse leaders to take

on the importance of mental health. Of this experience, she

on different responsibilities that contribute to the overall goals

said, “I was able to teach students in different classes about the

of the unit. Through this experience, I got to see how they

importance of balancing responsibilities with time for yourself

interacted as leaders in the unit with nurses and caregivers.”

to avoid being burned out and developing serious mental health issues.”

The hope is that young students taught by members of the RUUTE program will develop an interest in pursuing careers

Utah Tech University is committed to preparing students for the future. The pre-medical programs and partnerships the university has in place are one way of ensuring long-term success for students.

in healthcare. Another advantage of the program is that once RUUTE members become licensed professionals, they can take their expertise back to their own communities in need.

Utah Tech University also partners with St. George Regional Hospital. The partnership allows pre-med students to work directly with healthcare professionals. Richards said she found her time as an intern at the hospital to be another great opportunity to develop professionally.

“My internship at the St. George Regional Hospital was very transformative,” Richards said. “It helped me to become a better leader and to feel confident in my abilities to take on challenges that are bigger than myself.”

As a healthcare professional, leadership skills are just as important as technical skills.

Richards said she learned a valuable lesson in the importance of leading a team: “One person cannot run a unit.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University

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DIGITAL FILM PROGRAM RENOVATIONS PREPARE STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS Devine Burke, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis This year, the Digital Film program completed state-ofthe-art renovations, implementing a $365,000 Utah System of Higher Education Innovation Grant, which allowed the program to build a new mastering studio, computer labs, theatrical screening space, equipment cage, and maker-space for visual effects and immersive media.

The Digital Film program partnered with Washington County and the Utah Film Commission to give opportunities for professional student interns to work on Kevin Costner’s blockbuster film series Horizon: An American Saga.

The film series was shot on location in St. George. Utah Tech University hopes to develop a major professional pipeline for students on future projects being produced locally.

In fact, this academic year, five students had their films accepted into competition at various film festivals around the nation and the globe.

One student director, Sarah Cordner, traveled to South

Cordner will also be having her North American premiere at Utah Tech’s DOCUTAH International Film Festival in St. George this year.

Korea to film her capstone documentary “Caged,” which is

To even better prepare students, Utah Tech Creative

an exposé about the illegal dog-meat trade. Her film was then

Studios launched this year as a partnership between the Digital

screened at the prestigious South Korea International Short

Film, Animation, and Media Studies programs to provide

Film Festival.

students with professional opportunities, technical resources, and career support as they transition into industry jobs.

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HUMAN-TECH SPEAKER SERIES EXPLORES HUMAN ELEMENTS OF A TECHNOLOGY-FOCUSED WORLD Devine Burke, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis As part of the Human-Tech Speaker Series that he

The final human-tech speaker for academic year 2022-

launched during the Spring 2022 semester, Dr. Stephen Lee,

2023 was Jennifer Keating, teaching professor and writing

Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, invites

disciplines specialist in the William S. Dietrich II Institute for

academic and business leaders to talk about technological

Writing Excellence at the University of Pittsburgh. During her

innovation’s impact on humanity’s goals and aspirations.

talk “AI & Humanity: Shaping the Future,” Keating addressed

The four speakers to be featured so far highlighted the ways that technology shapes life and the ways humans inspire the design of technology.

stigmas and concerns about artificial intelligence.

Like Hartley and Dorr, Keating sees technology, specifically AI technologies, as an opportunity for people to

The inaugural speaker, Scott Hartley, authored a book

learn about what it means to be human. Keating presented

titled The Fuzzy and the Techie: Why Liberal Arts Majors Will

ways that technology encourages collaborative teaching

Rule the Digital World that discusses how Stanford University

strategies and interdisciplinary thinking. Keating came

students who major in the humanities or social sciences were

to Utah Tech to inspire the community, the faculty, and

considered “fuzzies” and students who majored in engineering

the students in different fields to implement AI tools in

or computer science were considered “techies.”

productive and ethical ways.

During his talk, Hartley discussed the inextricable

Speakers such as Scott Hartley, Adam Dorr, and Jennifer

interconnections between technology and humanity. Keeping

Keating invite and encourage the community, faculty, and

these connections in mind, according to Hartley, fosters the

students to welcome new ways of thinking about technology,

interdisciplinary thinking best suited to solving humanity’s

always keeping in mind that technology exists to serve the

problems. Hartley provided anecdotes of success stories where

needs of human beings.

interdisciplinary thinkers stepped out of their comfort zones and became trailblazers in their fields.

The second speaker, Adam Dorr, director of research at RethinkX, looked closely at the connections between technological change and its impact on society. His thesis and his book Brighter: Optimism, Progress, and the Future of Environmentalism discuss technological disruptions in energy, transportation, and food. His public talk Rethinking Humanity: Reasons for Optimism Amidst the Disruptions focused on how community members and university students can prepare for these disruptions.

Dorr considers technological discoveries and advancements to be opportunities for progress even if they disrupt a society’s current way of living. He argues that disruptive technologies like solar and wind power will ultimately save the Earth from climate change. He invited Utah Tech to rethink the future as we are exposed to technology that can better sustain humanity.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University

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UTAH TECH NURSING PROGRAMS EMPOWER STUDENT SUCCESS Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor For students considering a career in nursing, Utah Tech

The CNA program, for example, takes only one semester

University offers five unique programs that prepare and qualify

to complete, making it a great option for someone who wants

prospective nurses for a fulfilling career in healthcare.

to get certified quickly. For those who prefer remote learning,

Utah Tech offers options for nursing students whether

the RN-BSN program is entirely online. And the Master of

they are entering their first career, looking to earn an

Science in Nursing is a great option for current nurses looking

advanced degree, pursuing a career change, or wanting to take

to further their education and advance in their careers.

classes online.

Dr. Judy Scott is a registered nurse and the department chair for Nursing in the College of Health Sciences at

“There’s an option for everyone,” Dr. Scott said. “We take a student wherever they’re at and help them achieve their goals.”

For instance, the Associate of Applied Science in

Utah Tech. She oversees all five nursing programs that the

Nursing is designed specifically for Licensed Practical Nurses,

university offers.

paramedics, and military medics who want to become certified

These programs include Certified Nursing Assistant

as registered nurses. For these students, this program provides

(CNA), Associate of Applied Science in Nursing, an online RN-

the perfect way to make the change they’ve been looking for.

BSN program, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and Master of

The goal for students, of course, is to find a job quickly

Science in Nursing. Each program is designed to accommodate

once they graduate. Dr. Scott said Utah Tech is among the best

the needs of individuals wanting a career in nursing.

schools in the state at placing students in jobs after graduation.

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“All of our students who want a job have one,” Dr. Scott said.

Utah Tech has a long-standing relationship with Intermountain Health. The students in the university’s

The great relationship between these two organizations, coupled with an anticipated job growth of approximately 9% from 2020-2030, means that nursing is a highly desirable career.

The students in Utah Tech’s nursing programs are

nursing programs complete their shadowing and clinic work

successful because they have faculty, administrators, and

at Intermountain Health facilities, including St. George

medical staff who care about them. Dr. Scott praised the

Regional Hospital.

commitment her staff has to seeing their students succeed

Thanks to the instruction and mentoring that nursing students receive from their academic professors and hospital

beyond the classroom. Because of their hard work, the future of healthcare in St. George is in good hands.

staff, they are well prepared for their careers. As a result, many of them are hired as full-time nurses at these facilities once they become certified.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University

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ACCOUNTING PROFESSOR ENCOURAGES UNDERGRAD RESEARCH USING SEC FILINGS AND PYTHON Owen Johnson, Junior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis Dr. David Olsen, Assistant Professor of Information

COVID times. They are using SEC trader forms and Python

Systems and Analytics, has been encouraging students

programs with the goal of determining which companies have

within the Accounting, Finance, and Information Systems

seen an outsized number of trades.

and Analytics departments to participate in undergraduate research projects.

In spring 2022, Dr. Olsen worked with Hannah LaPray,

LaPray’s work was submitted to the Utah Conference on Undergraduate Research (UCUR) and an academic journal.

Peonath’s work is on track to be submitted to UCUR as well.

a Utah Tech graduate, and performed research to investigate the relationship between financial data from Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings and stock prices for Fortune 500 companies from 2010 to 2022.

The two used SQL and Python to scrape through the data sets and organize the resulting data into a readable table.

LaPray and Dr. Olsen recently submitted their work, titled Fine-Grained and Comprehensive Analysis of SEC Financial Data for Enhanced Stock Price Predictions: A Method and Case Study to be published.

Dr. Olsen is working with another student as well, Alexis Peonath. This set of co-researchers are looking into insider trading and comparing behavior of trades from pre- to postHannah LaPray & Dr. David Olsen

UTAH TECH NOW OFFERS PRE-LAW COURSES Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor Life as a lawyer is no easy task, but the faculty and staff at Utah Tech are committed to preparing students for a career in the courtroom.

and Social Sciences Student Senator Corey Gardner got a fullride scholarship to Penn State University.

Utah Tech first offered pre-law courses in 2022, and it has

Prior to accepting her position as instructor of the

seen a growing interest among students since that time. The

practice in criminal justice, Susan Hunt practiced criminal law

university currently boasts 82 prospective law school students,

in adult and juvenile courts in northern Utah. Now, she focuses

an increase of over 50% since the Fall 2022 semester.

her attention on qualifying students for a career in law.

Utah Tech’s pre-law courses fall under the Department

Hunt attributes growing student interest to a wide range of hands-on and networking opportunities, including

of Criminal Justice, and while the university does not offer an

chances to observe real court hearings, attend law school

established pre-law program, it has seen success in preparing

fairs, participate in Utah Tech’s Pre-Law Society, and learn

students for law school, such as two students’ recent

from guest speakers who are successful practicing lawyers

acceptance to prestigious law programs. Noah Washington was

and attorneys.

accepted at the University of Notre Dame, and the Humanities

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NEW HOTEL AND RESORT MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OFFERS HANDS-ON LEARNING Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor As Utah Tech University grows, it continues to offer new

Locally, the university has partnered with Black Desert

and exciting programs. New to the university this year is the

Resort to provide students with firsthand experience working

Hotel and Resort Management program. Dr. Saeed Vayghan

with industry professionals. Students are given opportunities

leads the program and is excited to see it flourish.

to work in various settings located at the resort, including

Dr. Vayghan completed his undergraduate and graduate coursework in his home country of Iran. Soon after, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in hotel and resort management.

With a research emphasis in IT and the use of artificial intelligence in hotel settings, Dr. Vayghan brings a modern application of industry standards to the Hotel and Resort

accommodations, building management, golf and recreation services, dining facilities, and more.

These opportunities, coupled with a high quality academic curriculum, ensure students are getting the most out of the program. Once they graduate, they will be well prepared as industry professionals.

Dr. Vayghan explained that because the program is new,

Management program at Utah Tech University. This modern

the number of students in the class is still small. Currently, the

edge is one of the things that sets Utah Tech apart from

program offers one class per semester. Beginning in the spring

other universities.

of 2024, however, the university will add an additional class per

St. George is one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation, and its close proximity to Las Vegas makes it an ideal location for students interested in the hotel and

semester to the program, and the number of students enrolled will increase.

The Hotel and Resort Management program at Utah Tech

resort management industry. To provide students with an

University is a great example of the university’s commitment

exceptional learning experience, the program’s design extends

to offer diverse educational opportunities to its students. With

well beyond the classroom.

experienced staff members like Dr. Vayghan overseeing the growth of these programs, it’s no wonder students are coming from all over the country to attend Utah Tech University.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 11

UTAH TECH’S FUNCTIONAL GENOMICS LAB PREPARES STUDENTS FOR SUCCESSFUL CAREERS Owen Johnson, Junior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis Introduced in the fall of 2022, the Biology Department’s Functional Genomics Program has been steadily growing. Dr. Hung-Yu Shih, the program’s leading scientist, shared that the lab started with roughly 20 fish in fall 2022, and now, a year later, the lab’s tanks hold roughly 800 fish.

Dr. Shih emphasized that the research helps students “get more hands-on experience” and makes them “more career ready.” The lab provides these needed opportunities for research and active learning within the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology.

“Thanks to the lab I was part of, I was able to present and

In fact, Kaleb Corbett, a Utah Tech graduate, attributes

network at professional and student conferences, as well as

his current job to his 10 months in the functional genomics

obtain research internships,” Harraq said. “These skills will

lab under the mentorship of Dr. Shih and Lab Coordinator

specifically be important as I decide to further my education in

Yu-Chien Liu. “Everything I have and where I am at is because

the biotechnology field.”

of everything I learned in the zebrafish lab and from Dr.

Harraq currently works as a biology teacher at the

Hung-Yu Shih,” Corbett said. “Currently, I am a lab technician

private Bay School of San Francisco, teaching foundational

for the Agricultural Research Service, a branch of the USDA,

and advanced honors courses in biology. He is in the process

researching a rare genetic neurological disease known as

of designing his own research program at the school with a

4H-Leukodystrophies. Both Yu-Chien Liu [the zebrafish lab

potential collaboration with UT.

coordinator] and Dr. Shih taught me everything and helped me in so many ways.”

Both Corbett and Harraq have proved Utah Tech’s “active learning. active life.” style of teaching and learning is helping

Corbett also mentioned that the lead scientist he works

students become more competitive in the workforce. Dr.

for said that the lab was hesitant to try and work with embryos

Shih is working hard to make sure students he works with

until Corbett was hired with his lab experience.

are lab-ready and have a peer-reviewed publication before

Youseff Harraq, another Utah Tech graduate, affirmed that the skills he learned in the lab made him a competitive graduate as he moved onto his professional career.

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they graduate.

Doug Sainsbury, the Biological Sciences program director, encourages all students who have an interest in genomics and research to apply to join the Functional Genomics program.

“All students can get a great experience even as a freshman,” he said.

The functional genomics lab is open to any interested first-year student. “The program was developed in a way to start students as early as possible,” Sainsbury said. “Students slowly work on more and more advanced projects, learning how to work with advanced tools, and developing greater research skills.”

Once students are ready to graduate, they will be careerready and able to work independently in a lab without having to be constantly monitored by a supervisor.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 13

OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES LEAD TO GREATER STUDENT SUCCESS Mads Seegmiller, Junior, Biology, Natural Science Emphasis, Creative Writing Minor Over 170 faculty members at Utah Tech University use Open Educational Resources (OER) rather than asking

Additionally, psychology faculty adapted an OER text to use in an introduction to psychology class.

students to purchase textbooks, which saves students around

Students can access OER materials on the first day of

$600,000 per year. Librarians at Utah Tech began the Open

school at no cost to them. This is especially helpful for students

Educational Resource Program to assist faculty in identifying

who are eligible for Pell Grants and who come from lower

and creating open access materials in 2020.

income families, but any student can benefit regardless of

Open Educational Resources include free and accessible

income level.

learning materials such as textbooks, videos, presentations, and

By using OER materials, faculty can piece together

more. Assistant Librarian Emma Lanners, who focuses on OER

coursework that best fits the needs of their classes. OER

and graduate support, said the university’s mission for OER is

focuses on the 5 Rs of education: retaining, remixing, revising,

to “increase student academic success and remove barriers that

reusing, and redistribution.

impede access to course materials.”

Last year, for instance, Tracy Fawns, Assistant Professor

Open Educational Resources are related to Open Educational Practices (OEP), which encourage hands-on

of Nursing, created a text called Evidence-Based Practice

learning. The two programs create a framework for open

& Research Methodologies for a class that introduces

education by providing the 10 dimensions of open education:

quantitative and qualitative research methods to nursing

strategy, technology, leadership, quality, collaboration,

students. Dr. Lucia Taylor, Associate Professor of Foreign

research, access, content, pedagogy, and recognition.

Languages, co-created a Spanish linguistics text. Dr. Greg

The success of OER at Utah Tech is evident. Faculty

Bartholomew, Associate Professor of Secondary Education,

have seen an improvement in grades, and fewer students are

created a text for an introductory course in education that

withdrawing from courses that have implemented OER.

focuses on concepts specific to Utah and Washington County.

14 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

EMILY PEREIRA: Endowed Chair for the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor This July, Utah Tech University welcomed one of its

Utah Tech University, along with other universities across

newest faculty members, Emily Pereira, as the endowed

the state, is honored to remember Beverley Taylor Sorenson by

chair for the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Arts Learning Program

recognizing faculty members who share her vision. Pereira is

(BTS Arts).

the right woman to move this program forward, and Utah Tech

Prior to accepting her position at the University, Pereira served as the district arts coordinator in the Iron County

is privileged to have her.

In Pereira’s own words: “The arts have a unique way

School District. She has seven years of experience teaching

of helping people understand how things work, and are an

theater across two schools in the Iron County School District

especially wonderful way to build community. Beverley knew

and has also spent time as an elementary school teacher.

this. I know this. Our region is making the arts a priority, and it

The BTS Arts program honors the late Beverley

is a bright future ahead.”

Taylor Sorenson. Pereira spoke of Sorenson’s dedication to reinvigorating the arts programs in elementary schools across the state: “She advocated for the idea that kids learn best when they play or create. Prior to her death, she helped establish a private/public collaboration in the state of Utah that would support arts education. This partnership now affects more than 460 elementary schools in the state and continues to grow.”

The growth of the program is evidence that Sorenson’s vision has been a success. The implementation of arts programs in elementary schools across the state has resulted in higher academic performance across all areas of study, including English language arts, social studies, math, science, and history.

The clear indication that art programs benefit students is one of the things that excites Pereira about her role as endowed chair for the BTS Arts program.

Pereira said, “Being selected as the endowed chair is an amazing honor. I am looking forward to supporting the vision that Beverley once had as I create professional development and programming for the Utah Tech Region.”

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 15

2023 TRAILBLAZER RESEARCH SYMPOSIUM BOASTS RECORD NUMBER OF PRESENTATIONS Mads Seegmiller, Junior, Biology Major, Natural Science Emphasis, Creative Writing Minor Utah Tech University’s 2023 Trailblazer Research Symposium was a great success. The research symposium took place on campus, and there were around 600 attendees, which included students, faculty, and staff.

The Trailblazer Research Symposium showcased 100 oral and poster presentations from students involved in a broad variety of academic fields. In fact, throughout the symposium’s seven-year history, this is the first year with 190 student presenters.

IGNITE Talks, presentations given by students and faculty mentors that focus on being concise and effective, were a highlight of the symposium.

The IGNITE talks were three minutes long and moved on to new points every 20 seconds, creating an energetic and engaging atmosphere. Given before the more formal presentations, the talks set the tone and encouraged the students who participated in the symposium.

Topics ranged from genomics and virtual reality to artificial intelligence and social studies. Director of Research

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Vinodh Chellamuthu said the event “highlighted an

The symposium not only showcased students’ academic

extraordinary array of innovative and creative ideas.”

skills but also fostered their growth in collaboration and

The symposium was open to undergraduate students with many different skill sets, presented in a variety of formats including performances, posters, displays, and much more.

career networking.

Students who want to participate in upcoming symposiums must prepare early. Dr. Chellamuthu suggested identifying interests quickly and reaching out to potential mentors for both guidance and support in their endeavors.

Then, students should prepare their materials to undergo a peer review process.

Utah Tech cultivates a culture of students, faculty, and staff who work to fulfill the motto of “active learning. active life.” By actively fostering this mindset, faculty encourage students to step outside of their comfort zone and participate in high level academics—in this case, research.

In order to assist students in their research and creative endeavors, the University offers research grants and mentorship programs to lower financial barriers. Dr. Chellamuthu said the 2024 Trailblazer Research Symposium is scheduled for Friday, April 19.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 17

STUDENTS GAIN REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE IN SPORTS BROADCASTING AND JOURNALISM Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor Utah Tech’s Media Studies program is filled with students eager to step into careers in sports broadcasting and journalism. The University’s programs are dynamic and designed to help them get to where they want to be.

Group, which produces the College Baseball World Series, and they will be returning to help again in the future.

Sam Nord, another current student, spent this past summer as a video production intern with the Iowa Cubs,

“Because of our real-life, polytechnic approach, our

the triple A baseball team affiliated with the Chicago Cubs.

students graduate from our programs career-ready, with a

Likewise, student Kallen Webster took a media job with the

portfolio of experiences that give them an advantage over

Kansas City Chiefs.

their competitors,” said Lauren Golden, Video and Broadcast Production Coordinator at the University.

Along with opportunities on campus, students participate in internship programs with professional sports organizations

“Producing the College World Series was a rewarding and educational experience for them,” Golden said. “I know [Nord] enjoyed her time there and is looking forward to what she’ll be able to do with her degree once she graduates.”

to enhance their experience.

Current students Maxx Pintus, Jaxon Peebler, Ethan Snell, and Davis Powell all recently worked for the Tourbeau Sports

THE DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM CELEBRATES ITS 25TH GRADUATING CLASS AND 100% PASS RATE Mads Seegmiller, Junior, Biology Major, Natural Science Emphasis, Creative Writing Minor The class of 2024 will be the Dental Hygiene program’s

By partnering with other educators, Atkinson is able to

25th graduating class, and over the years, the staff and faculty

push the boundaries of education and motivate students and

have put forth tremendous effort into student success. It is a

licensed clinicians across the United States to achieve their

rigorous program that carefully prepares students to graduate

goals through patient care and clinical tips.

as great oral health providers.

Department Chair Brenda Armstrong says that in order for students to become licensed dental hygienists, they must complete a lengthy eight-hour written exam as well as other regional clinical exams. To be a fully licensed dental hygienist, students can take up to six exams, depending on where they intend to practice.

Stepping into social media is another aspect of the evergrowing program. Assistant Professor Jessica Atkinson—also known as “Hygiene Edge” on social media—shares her clinical and teaching skills on different platforms.

18 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

In fact, Utah Tech University’s Dental Hygiene Program has fostered incredible success at an astounding 100% pass rate.

THE NEW MASTER OF FINE ARTS DEGREE HELPS STUDENTS BE GREAT Devine Burke, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis A Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art has been approved, creating another avenue for art students at Utah Tech to

the boundaries in their fields and gain recognition not only for themselves but for the institution as well.

further their education. The MFA in Studio Art is one of

Shane Christensen, Associate Professor of Ceramics,

two terminal degree offered at Utah Tech, along with the

completed a short-term residency in SkalSkor Denmark at

Occupational Therapy Doctoral Degree.

the International Ceramics Research Center Guldagergaard.

Utah Tech’s art programs provide students with the

Meaghan Gates, Assistant Professor of Ceramics, exhibits her

resources and mentors they need to further their development

work across the country. Brian Astle, Assistant Professor of

and the creative process.

Art, won best of show, with a $12,000 prize, for his oil on linen

For example, in the animation program, students can develop animated films and video games using leading software

painting titled Eclipse at the American Impressionist Society’s 24th Annual Juried Exhibition.

such as Unreal Engine and Blender. Likewise, there are diverse

Department Chair Alex Chamberlain works with art

programs for photography, from studio to wildlife. Utah Tech

faculty to help the fine arts students “find out all that they’re

provides the utensils, crafting tools, and other supplies to

good at and help them do it great.” Art faculty give their

ensure students’ success in other mediums of art as well.

students the ability to stay current and successful in their fields

Faculty in the Art Department consist of a diverse array

throughout their careers.

of award-winning, well-published artists who strive to push

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 19

STUDENTS GET TECHNICAL WITH AI Devine Burke, Senior, English Major, Creative Writing Emphasis AI is redefining the ways we think and work, and Utah Tech recognizes that students need to understand generative AI such as ChatGPT. In fact, in a recent alumni panel, Myles Maughan from Flitch Creative, Colby Clanton from Clanton Sound, and Jose Vincente Mollá Sagredo from Balance of Nature discussed the extensive use of generative AI within their respective career fields.

Given AI’s popularity in the workplace, Utah Tech has been proactive in helping faculty integrate the use of AI into learning and assisting students in the use of AI to make their work more professional and easier to accomplish.

Bruce Harris, Associate Provost of Faculty Affairs, and Diana Maughan, Acting Director of the Center for Teaching

learners and gives examples and guides to the most efficient

and Learning, have hosted forums for faculty members to

ways to use such powerful tools.

learn how to use AI in their classrooms in innovative ways.

While generative AI can never replace faculty and

The workshops are held often to keep up with the constantly

students’ humanity and creativity, faculty are already using the

changing and ever growing capabilities of generative AI.

tool to improve teaching and learning processes.

The university also has developed a Canvas course in

For instance, Dr. Aaron Davis in Biological Sciences has

prompt engineering that is available for all majors. The course

integrated AI into computer and engineering coursework,

helps students use generative AI such as ChatGPT to be better

and Dr. Mike Peterson in English aids students in discovering

20 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

ways to use AI to improve written work. Maughan

Many Utah Tech initiatives center around AI. Utah Tech

uses AI to help organize the creative process within her

has received state funding to establish an AI graduate program.

communication classes.

The university has also received funding from the state to

Konnor Young in the College of Science, Engineering & Technology offers a pop-up course in prompt engineering

develop a Machine Learning for Life Scientists program.

The program will offer general, undergraduate, and

that meets weekly to help faculty, students, and community

graduate certificates for life sciences majors in machine

members learn to design effective prompts for generative

learning. The university further plans to establish a center

AI tools.

devoted to artificial intelligence and machine learning.

These instructors provide skill development and

The varied strategies centered around incorporating AI

certifications that open up many opportunities for Utah

into student learning all enable Utah Tech to remain on the

Tech students.

cutting edge in educational innovation.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 21

ENGINEERING STUDENTS PRIMED FOR SUCCESS THROUGH HANDS-ON LEARNING Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor Utah Tech University prides itself on providing students with an educational experience that will set them up for

tracks helps these programs stand out from others around the state.

professional success. This sentiment holds especially true for

“The Engineering programs at Utah Tech aim to provide

students looking forward to careers in the field of engineering.

the premier hands-on engineering education in the region by

Engineering students at Utah Tech thrive in their

providing students with high-impact learning experiences,”

programs thanks to robust course designs and professional application experiences.

The Engineering Department offers undergraduate degrees in four fields: mechanical, electrical, computer, and mechatronics. Whichever programs students choose to pursue, they can do so knowing that the course curriculum is designed to see them achieve their individualized goals.

Department Chair David Christensen’s extensive academic and professional achievements uniquely qualify him for the challenge of creating a thriving Engineering Department at Utah Tech. He has been with the university for over six years and has played a critical role in the creation and development of each of the four engineering programs.

Christensen said the department’s focus on providing students with the best opportunities possible to learn and experience success in their individualized academic and career

22 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Christensen said.

He said these experiences are achieved through

“I really enjoyed being part of a company with a culture

opportunities such as industry collaborative projects,

rooted in innovation, impact, and having fun, as well as

Engineering Design Day presentations, entrepreneurial

supporting an up-and-coming name in the aerospace industry

opportunities, lab courses, equipment and software training,

while still being able to stay here in St. George,” Allen said.

research experiences, small class sizes, and a variety of specialized elective courses.

Electrical engineering student Bradley Allen has experienced firsthand the benefits of participating in these

Practical, hands-on experience is a priority in the Engineering Department at Utah Tech, and faculty like Christensen and students like Allen see success through embracing this style of learning.

programs. He interned with Intergalactic, a local aerospace company, from January 2022 to June 2023.

Of this experience, Allen said, “I learned a lot about circuit schematic design, printed circuit board assembly and inspection, testing of thermal management systems, electrical safety, and ESD standards.”

Allen also appreciated the supportive and challenging environment that this internship offered. “The team supported me while challenging me to jump in and learn as I go to best prepare me for my future career as an electrical engineer.”

Diving headfirst into a new career opportunity–especially one as challenging and technical as electrical engineering–can be a daunting task. But Allen was up to the challenge.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 23

DR. STEPHEN ARMSTRONG AND DR. CINDY KING: English Faculty Owen Johnson, Junior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis Every year, faculty publish scholarly articles, research proposals, books, and more. From fall 2022 through summer 2023, faculty across campus composed, presented, and/ or published over 300 scholarly or creative works, with 24 publications coming from English faculty.

Dr. Stephen Armstrong and Dr. Cindy King, both creative writing faculty in the English Department, work on creative works alongside their duties as professors.

Dr. Armstrong recently published his fourth book in September, I Want You Around: The Ramones and the Making of Rock ‘n’ Roll High School.

His book dives behind the scenes of the movie Rock ‘n’ Roll High School, released in 1979, and recounts the era of punk rock in relation to the band The Ramones, who were featured in the film.

Since his book was published, he was asked to attend a film festival for the filmmaker Roger Corman, who produced over 510 projects, and hold a book signing.

Dr. Armstrong was also asked to do a number of interviews for podcasts, was interviewed by Tom Williams on Utah Public Radio, and presented at both DePaul University and the Univeristy of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Dr. Armstrong creates works loved by cult audiences, gaining him respect across both English and film disciplines.

“I like to write about material that’s obscure,” he said. “That’s how I stay interested in the subject.”

Working on topics that keep him engaged helps Dr. Armstrong balance his writing career with his work as a professor. He also passes that mentality to his students in both the creative writing and the professional and technical writing emphases.

Equally accomplished, Dr. King published a book-length poetry collection called Zoonotic in 2022 and is working on her third chapbook, OhioChic, which is slated for a 2024 release.

Due to her published works, Dr. King recently got invited with other known poetry authors to do a reading at BYU on March 29, 2024, to promote Zoonotic and her other published chapbooks, Lesser Birds of Paradise and Easy Street.

Dr. King emphasizes that publishing works and doing book readings encourages students to do the same. “If I didn’t walk the walk, write, go to readings, and publish my stuff, I couldn’t stand in front of my students and ask them to publish their work”, She said.

By publishing her own works, Dr. King feels she is able to properly inspire students to share their own work. “Working with students is a reciprocal relationship,” She said. “Students inspire me and I would like to reciprocate that.”

24 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

FURTHERING THE EVOLUTION OF GENOMICS THROUGH BIOINFORMATICS Owen Johnson, Junior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis Students within UT’s Bioinformatics Program learn how to apply computer science to biological settings to examine huge datasets Dr. Randy Klabacka, an assistant professor in the

projects and presented their projects at this international conference.

Evolution is held annually and organized by the Society of

Biological Sciences Department who leads the Bioinformatics

Systematic Biologists, the Society for the Study of Evolution,

Program, said. To analyze this data, students learn how to use

and the American Society of Naturalists. Dr. Klabacka said on

computer clusters, a type of supercomputer, to organize and

his Klabacka Lab blog: “Several hundred of the world’s leading

decipher whole genomes.

biologists attend the meeting, and this year five of those people

Something Dr. Klabacka takes pride in is that his students work on individual projects. Due to the still-emerging nature

were from Utah Tech!”

During this event, Christensen, Johnson, and McKee not

of the field of bioinformatics, there is a great amount of

only presented their projects but also were able to get feedback

publicly available data that students can use to ask novel

from leading evolutionary biologists from across the world.

research questions.

Dr. Klabacka emphasized that students were able to network

Dr. Klabacka currently has seven undergraduate researchers working on diverse genetic data sets. Students

during the event, getting contacts and preparing themselves for future opportunities after graduation.

plan to present all seven projects at the Utah Conference for

Utah Tech’s Bioinformatics Program, which is now five

Undergraduate Research (UCUR) at Utah Valley University in

years old, continues to grow with the addition of Dr. Klabacka,

February 2024.

who graduated from BYU and Auburn University with

Last summer, students were able to attend another

bachelor’s and doctorate degrees in biological sciences. This

conference, Evolution 2023. Baylee Christensen, Candice

year, the program added four new classes to its course list and a

Johnson, and Reagan McKee obtained High Impact

new Bioinformatics Certificate.

Scholarships from Utah Tech for their work on bioinformatics

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 25

UTAH TECH STUDENTS HELP DEVELOP PARKSPASS TO ENHANCE PARK EXPERIENCES

ParksPass is a collaborative project between Utah State

“The project scope is so vast there is hardly anything to

Parks, the Utah Department of Technology Services, and

get bored with,” Taysom said. “There is so much to do and

Utah Tech University in which students and staff at Utah Tech

explore within my field of design. It has been incredibly helpful

are developing technology systems for visitors to purchase

to be going to school for design while also doing it as a job and

their park passes and reserve camping sites while parks

putting what I learn into practice. Some days I am helping with

can track visitors in and out of parks and improve the park

user interface research, planning, and design, some days I am

experience overall.

riding around with park rangers making videos, and some days

One of Utah Tech’s students, Lindsey Taysom, has been working on the project for over two years. She says the experience has been “absolutely life changing and transforming.”

I am making and ordering customized merchandise for the parks. I thrive on the variety inside this project.”

The team tackles many different projects including how parks handle price changes on their signs or take payments at remote locations with no cell service or Wi-Fi. The projects can be challenging. The team worked for months, for instance, using AI to create Disney-style maps for almost every state park in Utah.

When Taysom joined the team, they had just barely made and launched the official QR code day pass to purchase online and presented it to the governor. Since then, interest in the project has grown exponentially.

26 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Taysom mentioned how much she enjoys working with Jason Pitts, the ParksPass manager. “Jason is an incredible person to work with and learn from. He is the director and founder of this project. He truly believes anything is possible and is always shooting for the stars. He has a level of tenacity I have never seen in anyone else. He does an amazing job of making everyone feel heard and seen, and has built a tight, solid team and culture where we literally are trailblazing and doing things no one else has done before. I have been changed by his kindness, generosity and unique perspective on life.”

“Working for ParksPass is one of the greatest blessings in my life and something I plan to do for years to come,” She said. “It has made me a much better person, designer, and friend. I think it’s amazing that Utah Tech backs our team up and allows us to have this work experience integrated into our school experience.

“As we continue to work hard, the path ahead becomes more and more clear. Our vision as a team is to empower the future of recreation and to preserve and enhance the park experience for generations to come. I never knew how fun it would be to be a part of that mission. ParksPass has opened my eyes to the things you can accomplish if you truly believe you can make a change.”

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 27

STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY RESEARCH PROJECTS AND ECONOMIC IMPACT STUDIES Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor Dr. Chris Healy, Assistant Professor of Management, and

Notably, the students also worked with City of Santa

Dr. Kristy Grayson, Assistant Professor of Marketing, both

Clara businesses to gather information on major human

support community-based projects to enhance the learning of

resources issues experienced by small business owners and

their students.

developed trainings on the areas of recruitment, motivation,

Recently, their students have contributed to the success

employee relations-culture, employee engagement, coaching

of multiple city-wide events, including the Ironman World and

and discipline, compensating employees, and managing

American Championships, St. George Marathon, St. George

performance. Each training was delivered for Santa Clara

Arts Festival, and Huntsman World Senior Games.

businesses in the City Town Hall.

Additionally, management and marketing students

As one of the fastest growing cities in the nation,

coordinate with local businesses to determine solutions for

St. George benefits from the community research projects

issues they are facing and provide a cost-benefit analysis.

and economic impact studies provided by students at Utah

Students have worked with many local businesses including

Tech University.

Korner Mart, Minky Couture, Mozaik Surface Concepts,

In addition to fostering a close relationship between the

Grown Worx, Corp., Fabulous Freddy’s Car Wash, Handel’s

university and community members, these projects allow

Homemade Ice Cream, and Dixon Law.

students to put the theoretical knowledge they develop in the classroom to practice.

MATH GRADUATES EXPERIENCE UNIQUE OPPORTUNITIES THROUGH UTAH TECH Mads Seegmiller, Junior, Biology, Natural Science Emphasis, Creative Writing Minor With the guidance of professors and counselors, two Utah

Damen Maughan, a recent graduate and dual major

Tech math recent graduates have gained unique opportunities

in Computer Science and Mathematics, also had a unique

within their respective fields.

experience while studying at Utah Tech, performing habitat

William Clark, for instance, attended the Park City Mathematics Institute, a three-week math conference.

Clark said the research topic this summer was quantum

research on the Utah Mountain Kingsnake and participating in mathematical competitions.

Maughan’s hard work and excellent performance led

computation, something he became interested in during his

him to receive the SMART Scholarship for Service through

time at Utah Tech.

the Department of Defense, and he is currently developing

During his senior year, Clark completed the Cryptography Level II Certificate, which led to a semester of research on a

software for the Marine Corps.

Through the thoughtful mentorship of mathematics

quantum search algorithm called Grover’s algorithm. Because

faculty, Clark and Maughan developed research both

of his dedication and the resources available from Utah Tech,

individualistic and impactful.

he was able to work one-on-one with graduate students from around the world and attend numerous lectures to help further his career.

28 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

CHEMISTRY SCHOLARS: Journeys Beyond the Classroom Owen Johnson, Junior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis

Every summer, Utah Tech chemistry and biochemistry

Tyler Reed, a senior working on a bachelor’s degree in

students participate in research internships in which they

chemistry, interned at Idaho National Laboratory and worked

enhance their academic understanding with professional

on the Smart Rocks and Thermogenic Cement for Thermal

experiences. Four students had the chance to meet and

Energy Storage project. The goal of the project was to create

interact with scientists, present their preliminary findings

materials to store heat, which could be used to create energy.

at a professional conference, and prepare manuscripts for publication in 2023.

Dr. Gabriela Chilom, Chair of the Chemistry and

Eli Bliss, a senior finishing his bachelor’s degree in chemistry, continued his research at the University of Utah on chemi-ionization reactions of lanthanide metals that inhibit

Biochemistry Department, described the experience as

the loss of radio signaling, which is a critical issue for the

transformative, a turning point that can define and refine

United States Air Force.

career trajectories for these students. Each student’s project involves direct professional experience.

For instance, Nya Black, a senior working toward a

And finally, David Jackson, a senior graduating with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology, interned at Johns Hopkins. He focused his research on

bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and molecular biology,

glioblastomas, which are cancers originating in the brain

worked in the Van Ry Lab. There, Black was a member of the

or spinal cord. He specifically focused on two aggressive

tissue engineering team, which focuses on developing a better

cancers, diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma and atypical teratoid

understanding of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive

rhabdoid tumors.

disease that causes scarring in the lungs, making it harder to breathe.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 29

STUDY ABROAD FLOURISHES AT UTAH TECH Charlotte Beale, Senior, English Major, Literature Emphasis From nursing programs in Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic to creative writing programs in Greece and Japan, Utah Tech offers study abroad programs to fit any student interest.

Study abroad trips are facilitated by the International Student & Scholars Office (ISSO). Dr. Shadman Bashir, ISSO director, shares that today’s universities are “focused strongly on internationalizing their campuses [through] increasing international student numbers and having international partners and programs.”

What are the benefits of study abroad trips for students?

Dr. Bashir explains that academics are about more than what is written in books, and that “the more a program gives the students opportunities to work hands-on in a remote region of the world, in a specific academic field, the better it is.” In other words, study abroad fulfills Utah Tech’s “active learning. active life.” motto.

Shayne Nielsen, a senior English major, went on a creative writing study abroad trip to Greece in the summer of 2023. Neilsen said she found out about the trip from flyers posted around the Holland Centennial Commons and was immediately interested. She said, “Greece has been on my dream place bucket list since I was 12.”

Nielsen explained that the academic portion of the trip “challenged my writing ability and helped me to explore different English pathways” while the traveling helped her

Utah Tech students have a variety of opportunities to

expand her “knowledge on Greece as a place and culture.”

study abroad. In Spring 2024, for instance, some students will learn sport management from the historical, cultural, and political perspectives of Ireland. Other students will be able to gain an understanding of humanitarian aid by working in refugee camps in Uganda.

By giving students hands-on experience with familiar subjects in new places, students can learn more about themselves and the world and begin the path to living a truly active life long after their tenure at the university has finished.

Through the collaboration of faculty, the hard-working staff at the ISSO, and the students who invest in these trips, study abroad programs are thriving at Utah Tech.

30 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 31

UTAH TECH HOSTS THE 2023 GLOBAL POLYTECHNIC SUMMIT Owen Johnson, Junior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis In June of 2023, Utah Tech had the opportunity to host the annual Global Polytechnic Summit. This conference is where faculty, and administrators from across the world come together for a few days to present research, network, and discuss topics pertaining to that year’s theme.

This year, 142 people attended in total, hailing from eight different countries (United States, Ghana, Germany, Canada, England, Peru, Ireland, and Switzerland) and 21 different universities.

The annual summit was started by the Global Polytechnic Education Alliance (GPEA), which was founded in 2017 by six universities across the United States and Europe. The GPEA addresses distinctive, highly impactful educational

love your ‘active learning. active life.’ slogan. So, organize the

opportunities throughout Europe and the Americas.

conference based on that.’”

Hosting such an important conference is no simple feat.

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Michael

Throughout the conference, eight keynote speakers spoke and 67 abstract presentations were held.

Lacourse explained, “I submitted a proposal to bid to host the

Attendees had the opportunity to hear from keynote

event. When the GPEA agreed, I asked the leadership, ‘How

speakers from national offices and other universities. Some

would you like the event to be structured?’ And they said, ‘We

names included Dr. Thomas Rosenbaum, President of

32 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

the California Institute of Technology; Dustin Daughtery,

Dr. Lacourse was happy with how the conference went.

Managing Director of World Trade Center Utah; and Fahmida

“I know attendees left with a very positive feeling about the

N. Chowdhury, Program Director in the Office of International

university and about the region. Many said ‘I’m coming back on

Science and Engineering at the National Science Foundation.

vacation here!’ So, I think we were pretty successful.”

Some of the abstract presentations included Utah Tech

Utah Tech will continue to participate in future

faculty. Dr. John Wolfe presented on how to utilize chatbots

polytechnic conferences, including attending the 2024 event in

in teaching. Dr. Randy Jasmine and Dr. Jim Haendiges spoke

Winnipeg, Canada, and possibly hosting again in the future.

about their ongoing podcast, “Being Human UT.” Dr. Jeffrey Yule talked about how to better address extinction risk and biodiversity loss. Dr. Joy McMurrin and Dr. Lacy Hope spoke on using and creating open resources in technical writing classrooms.

In addition to presentations and keynote speakers, attendees also got the opportunity to experience the motto of “active learning. active life.”

Attendees hiked in Zion National Park, visited Snow Canyon, saw petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks, and played sports like golf and pickleball. Dr. Lacourse mentioned, “Many people said to us that they thought it was one of the best conferences they attended.”

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 33

UTAH TECH ADDS HUMANITIES CENTER AND INSTITUTE OF RACE, GENDER, AND IDENTITY Charlotte Beale, Senior, English Major, Literary Studies Emphasis Utah Tech University’s Board of Trustees recently

research and for faculty to build academic programs that

approved the Humanities Center and the Institute of Race,

address race, gender, and identity. Dr. Sarah Bell, Professor of

Gender, and Identity (IRGI). The two organizations provide

Psychology, is serving as IRGI’s inaugural director. The IRGI

opportunities for faculty, students, staff, and the community to

allows faculty to collaborate on curriculum such as the gender

collaborate on projects. Dr. Stephen Lee, Dean of the College

studies minor recently approved by the Utah Tech Board of

of Humanities and Social Sciences, said these centers are

Trustees as well as a possible interdisciplinary major.

intended to be think tanks for faculty and students with the

The IRGI will also partner with the Center for Inclusion

purposes of addressing “critical issues that affect humanities

and Belonging in Student Services to co-sponsor events and

at a polytechnic university and allow faculty and students to

provide more holistic support to students around issues of

explore topics of race, gender, and identity.”

race, identity, and gender. IRGI welcomes all interested faculty,

Dr. Lee notes that a key question the Humanities Center

students, and staff to examine these complex issues from a

sets out to address is, “How are we going to engage issues

variety of perspectives, including leadership, culture, and

of the humanities in a polytechnic context?” Humanities

society. “I wanted to create an academic workspace around

Center Coordinator Dr. Randy Jasmine, Professor of English,

these issues,” noted Dr. Lee.

has recently begun investigating this issue, bringing speakers

As Utah Tech grows into its polytechnic mission, both

to campus to explore the role of the humanities in the 21st

the Humanities Center and the Institute of Race, Gender,

century and share their work in digital humanities. In 2023,

and Identity will help ensure that the humanities and social

the Humanities Center brought a professional grant writer

sciences will be crucial collaborators. “Universities have

to campus to help faculty learn more about the grant writing

focused on the intersections of the humanities, social sciences,

process and get help developing proposals.

arts, and sciences for well over 600 years,” said Dr. Lee. “That

The IRGI has a similar human-centered purpose, and the key goal is to provide opportunities for students to complete

Dr. Randy Jasmine

34 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

interdisciplinary approach will help Utah Tech focus on human-centered approaches to problem-solving.”

Dr. Sarah Bell

DIGITAL FORENSICS CRIME LAB DIRECTOR TAKES STUDENTS TO SINGAPORE TO WORK WITH INTERPOL Kylie Buchanan, Junior Criminal Justice Major, Digital Defense and Security Emphasis, Professional and Technical Writing Minor Utah Tech University’s Digital Forensics Crime Lab

Director Spooner briefed Interpol Assistant Director

(DFCL) presents criminal justice students with the opportunity

Fabio Bruno regarding the work students in the DFCL program

to intern at the lab, and Director Mark Spooner has gone a

are doing and hopes students will become more involved with

step further. He coordinated with Interpol’s Senior Forensics

Interpol in the future.

Specialist Christopher Church and took DFCL interns Pryce Seely, Emma Mancuso, Jacob Spooner, and Rachel Mellor to Singapore.

The DFCL interns, along with Career Coach Asha Stapley, spent a week at Interpol headquarters, Singapore’s Global Complex for Innovation. The students also visited Nanyang Technological University, Singapore University of Technology & Design, and the Singapore Police Headquarters.

Director Spooner said he could not be more proud of these students: “The ability to provide this opportunity for our students and have their work distributed to Interpol’s 195 member-nations is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. In addition, our lab’s relationship with Interpol is also stronger than ever.”

STUDENTS SERVE IN THE NAVAJO NATION AND UGANDAN REFUGEE CAMPS Dylan Staheli, Senior, English Major, Professional and Technical Writing Emphasis, Communication Studies Minor Each year, Dr. Robert Kagabo, Assistant Professor of

his home country. Working directly with the United Nations,

Population Health, leads service trips to the Navajo Nation and

the service trips are focused on assisting refugees living in

Ugandan refugee camps. The trips are excellent opportunities

Ugandan refugee camps.

for students to apply their studies to the real world.

Most of these refugees leave their home countries,

“The students get to work with community leaders to

primarily the Congo and Sudan, because of regional instability.

assist public health and social related issues, and then try to

“One of the goals of our program is that students become

find a way to be engaged with community leaders to tackle the

aware of health care delivery in other areas,” Dr. Kagabo said.

issues there,” Dr. Kagabo said.

“Students get to observe the impact of conflict on healthcare

He emphasized the importance of building relationships based on trust—an essential component of community service—with members of the community.

delivery.”

Dr. Kagabo enjoys seeing his students help others and learn about Ugandan culture.

Born in Jinja, Uganda, Dr. Kagabo has personal ties to the area and cherishes the opportunity to take his students back to Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 35

CAREER SERVICES FOSTERS PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS FOR UTAH TECH STUDENTS Kylie Buchanan, Junior, Criminal Justice Major, Digital Defense and Security Emphasis, Professional and Technical Writing Minor

At Utah Tech’s Career Services, career coaches work hard to prepare students for success after graduation.

For new students unsure what major to choose, Career

to promote students and their skills and stay up to date with knowledge required for potential hires at these companies.

Career Services also maintains memberships with

Services helps students identify how their skills and interests

professional organizations like the National Association of

coincide with the job market. Executive Director Dottie Catlin

Colleges and Employers (NACE), an organization that offers

said Career Services does “a lot of assessments. So we find out

career-related research to ensure graduates know what to

students’ personality types, their skill sets, and typical jobs that

expect from the job market.

they might be good at or poor at or have to work hard in. And

Career Services has recently expanded further by

then we will show them a couple of different pathways that

introducing more internships and a new cooperative learning

they can take and then they can follow that path.”

program to better connect students to companies. Catlin

As students near graduation and start seeking jobs, they

said one of the main motives behind the development of the

can participate in mock interviews and bring in their resumes

cooperative learning program was to get more exposure to

to get feedback as they start applying for jobs.

bigger national brands.

Career Services has kept up relationships with many companies over the years. These relationships allow Utah Tech

36 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Career Services encourages students to reach out on the

Career Services expects great things from Utah Tech’s

Handshake app to employers partnered with the University. By

new polytechnic focus. Students not only have the opportunity

taking the opportunity to apply for internships or cooperative

to learn about subjects from a theoretical perspective, but

learning programs, students increase their chances of being

they also have the chance to practice, learn, and apply those

hired after graduation.

theories while working with students from other majors

Many companies who offer internships also have leadership development programs that support students

and disciplines.

Through continued innovation, Career Services supports

who become employees and stay with the company all the

Utah Tech’s mission to foster competent, resilient, lifelong

way into middle management. Companies work hard to retain

learners set up for professional success.

their interns, so students who apply to these programs have an advantage during the job search.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 37

INNOVATION GUIDANCE AND SOLUTIONS AT UTAH TECH Atwood Innovation Plaza is the premier entrepreneurship and innovation center for Southern Utah and provides support to its clients from several key stakeholders including the Business Resource Center sponsored by Zions Bank, Innovation Guidance and Solutions Center, Makerspace, ACE Academy, Jarem Hallows Business Incubator, Lovesac Startup Lounge, and Miller Innovation Hub. Last year, over 140 new clients found advice at the Plaza not only on how to file patents, copyrights, and trademarks, but also on how to research, launch, and grow their businesses.

JULY 2022-JUNE 2023 ATWOOD INNOVATION PLAZA ACTIVITIES APPOINTMENTS

775

NEW CLIENTS

143

PATENT APPLICATIONS

32

COPYRIGHT APPLICATIONS

4

TRADEMARKS APPLICATIONS

31

38 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 39

SCHOLARLY & CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FALL 2022 - SUMMER 2023 COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ACCOUNTING & FINANCE

Greenman, C. L., & Others, V. (2023). The

Improvement, and the Quest for Greatness:

ChatGPT Artificial Intelligence Chatbot: How

A Leadership Responsibility. The Journal of

Well Does It Answer Accounting Assessment

Values-Based Leadership, 14, 11; Anderson, V.

Questions? Issues in Accounting Education,

A., & Caldwell, C. (2021). Six Myths of Human

38, 1–28.

Resource Management. Journal of Business and Management Research, 10, 8; El-Khatib,

ESPLIN, DERRICK D, Associate Professor

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

of Accounting: Greenman, C. L., Esplin, D.

A., Caldwell, C., & Anderson, V. A. (2021). Moral Identity and the Islamic Faith. The Journal of

D., & Olsen, D. H. (2023). LIFO Accounting

ANDERSON, VERL A, Professor of Business

Distortions in the Oil & Gas Industry. Oil,

Management: Caldwell, C., & Anderson, V. A.

Gas & Energy Quarterly; Esplin, D. D. (2022).

(2022). “Leading with Passion” (p. 202). New

GRAYSON, KRISTY C, Assistant Professor

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: The Rising

York: Nova Science Publishing; Caldwell, C., &

of Marketing: Grayson, K. C. (2023, April).

Expectations within Internal Audit. Journal

Anderson, V. A. (2021). Emotional Intelligence

Moonlighting Madness. Mixing Paid Consulting

of Forensic and Investigative Accounting, 12.

and the Leader’s Role (p. 230). New York: Nova

with Student Learning. SBI Annual Conference.

College of Sharia and Islamic Studies.

Science Publishing; Caldwell, C., & Anderson,

Denver, CO: Small Business Institute; Grayson,

GREENMAN, CINDY L, Associate Professor

V. A. (2022). Employee Engagement (p. 189).

K. C. (2022, November). Through the Eyes of

of Accounting: Greenman, C. L. (2023).

New York: Nova Science Publishing; Caldwell,

Gen Z: Use and Preference of Social Media.

LIFO Accounting Distortions in the Oil &

C., & Anderson, V. A. (2022). Justice for All–

Women’s Entrepreneurship Week Virtual

Gas Industry. Oil, Gas & Energy Quarterly;

Making a Better World. Social Issues, Justice

Conference. Virtual: Texas State University.

Greenman, C. L., Johnston, R. R., Esplin, D.

and Status (p. 273). New York: Nova Science

D., & Hepworth, L. (2022). Cybersecurity

Publishing; Caldwell, C., & Anderson, V. A.

and Data Privacy: The Rising Expectations

(2021). Moral Identity and Self-Discovery (p.

within Internal Audit. Journal of Forensic and

204). New York: Nova Science Publishing;

OLSEN, DAVID HAROLD, Assistant

Investigative Accounting;

Caldwell, C., & Anderson, V. A. (2022).

Information Systems & Analytics Professor:

INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Performance Management for the Modern

Olsen, D. H. (2022). Teaching Tip: Using SQL to

GREENMAN, C. L. (2022, October).

Leader (p. 239). New York: Nova Science

Create and Mine Large, Customizable Datasets.

LIFO Accounting Distortions in the Oil &

Publishing; Caldwell, C., & Anderson, V. A.

Journal of Information Systems Education,

Gas Industry: Is it Material? Clute Institute:

(2021). “Employee Engagement and the

33(3), 209–228.

International Higher Education Conference.

Ethics of Friendship.” Journal of Business

Las Vegas, NV.

and Management Research, 10, 8; Ristic, M.

MANAGEMENT & MARKETING

j., Akjgateeb, S. R., Korany, M. H., Anderson,

SAAR, HELEN, Associate Professor of

V. A., & Caldwell, C. (2021). Human Resource

HEALY, CHRIS R, Assistant Professor of

Finance: Saar, H. (2022). Design of Online

Case Analysis—The Students’ Perspective.

Business Management: Healy, C. R., Thorpe,

Intermediate Career Strategies Course

Journal of Business and Management

M., Twitchell, M., & Busk, D. (2023, February).

(FIN3001). Utah Tech University.

Research, 10, 7; Masood, T., Alkhateeb, S.,

Employee Draught: A Local Situation. 27th

Anderson, V. A., & Caldwell, C. (2021). “Human

Annual “What’s Up Down South” Economic

SANDERS, KAPL AN B, Assistant

Resource Management from a Justice-Based

Summit. Dixie Center, St. George, UT: St.

Professor of Finance: Sanders, K. B. Early-

Perspective.” Business and Management

George Area Economic Development; Healy, C.

Career Compensation Trends among Family

Research, 9, 14; Caldwell, C., Liepava, N., &

R. (2021, October). “Leadership and Employee

Physicians. Journal of the American Board of

Anderson, V. A. (2021). The Newspaper, the

Wellbeing: An Issue of Savings Over Costs.”

Family Medicine.

Mirror, and the Kaleidoscope—Three Assets

AGC of Utah 17th Annual Safety Conference.

in Teaching and Writing. Journal of Business

Hilton Garden Inn, St. George, UT: Associated

STEWART, BRYAN W, Associate Professor

and Management Research, 9, 7; Caldwell, C.,

General Contractors of Southern Utah; Healy,

of Accounting: Wood, D. A., Stewart, B. W.,

& Anderson, V. A. (2021). Moral Identity, Self-

C. R., Price, N., Sullivan, B., & Diaz, C. (2023,

40 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

April). I-Os Working in Academic Spaces: We

B., & Jackson, B. (2023). Leveling Up: Moves

with Young Children. Southern Utah Early

Can Impact Academia by Being More Than

to Power-Up Your Number Talk Game. 2023

Childhood Conference. St. George, UT: Care

Faculty. 2023 SIOP Annual Conference.

ATOMIC Conference; Pak, B. (2023). Examining

About Childcare - Five County; Wright, L.

Boston, MA: Society for Industrial and

Ways Prospective Teachers Use Teacher

M. (2023). Partnering with Caregivers and

Organizational Psychology (SIOP); Healy, C.

Authority In Number Talks. 7th Trailblazer

Schools’ Personnel to Reduce Challenging

R. (2023, April). Okay Boomer - Managing

Symposium for Research, Innovation, and

Behavior and Improve Communication.

Millennials and Gen Z. Utah Municipal Clerks

Creativity; Pak, B., Cavanna, J., & Jackson,

Association Institute and Academy. Southern

B. (2023, March). Prospective Teachers’

Utah University, Cedar City; Healy, C. R., &

Perceptions of Enacted Number Talks. 50th

Thorpe, M. (2022, October). “Great Resignation

Anniversary for the RCML Annual Conference.

YULE, JEFF V, Professor of Interdisciplinary

Research in Rural Southern Utah for Crafting

Las Vegas, NV; Pak, B., Cavanna, J., & Jackson,

Arts & Sciences: Yule, J. V., & Chamberlain, A.

Workforce Education Intervention.” American

B. (2023). What Was Significant? Prospective

T. (2023). Book review of David Bainbridge’s

Association for Adult and Continuing

Teachers’ Perceptions of Enacted Number

Paleontology: An Illustrated History (2022).

Education (AAACE). Milwaukee, WI: AAACE;

Talks. 2023 Annual AMTE (Association of

The Quarterly Review of Biology; Yule, J.

Healy, C. R. (2023, February). 2023 Annual

Mathematics Teacher Educators) Conference.

V. (2022, December). Review of Thomas

APA Conference Submission Reviewer for

New Orleans, Louisiana; Pak, B. (2022).

Halliday’s Otherlands: A Journey Through

Division 14.

Expanding Professional Noticing to Examine

Earth’s Extinct Worlds (2022). The Quarterly

Teachers’ Decision-making During Intervention

Review of Biology; Yule, J. V. (2023, June).

in Small Groups. 44th Annual Meeting of the

“Better Addressing Extinction Risk and

North American Chapter of the International

Biodiversity Loss: Integrating Humanities, Arts,

Group for the Psychology of Mathematics

Health, and Social Sciences with STEM.” 2023

Education (PME-NA). Nashville, TN; Pak,

Global Polytechnic Summit. St. George, UT.

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION EDUCATION

STUDENT SUCCESS SERVICES

B. (2024, February). Go Beyond Reporting Strategies in Number Talks! Comparing

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

PAK, B, Assistant Professor of Education:

Strategies Is An Answer but How? 2024 Annual

Pak, B. (2023). Understanding Whether

AMTE (Association of Mathematics Teacher

and How Prospective Teachers Support

Educators) Conference. Orlando, FL; Yang,

Elementary Students to Compare Multiple

X., & Pak, B. (2023). Pedagogical Challenges

Strategies in Their Enacted Number Talks.

of Immigrant Minority Teacher Educators: A

Journal of the Korean Society of Mathematical

Collaborative Autoethnography Study. In To

HUNT, KALI DANIELLE, Associate

Education Series D: Research in Mathematical

be a Minority Teacher in a Foreign Culture;

Professor of Dental Hygiene: Hunt, K. D.

Education; Pak, B. (2022). A First Grade

Borowski, R., Sturgill, D., Pak, B., & Hummer, J.

(2023, September). Compassionate Care for

Teacher’s Challenge in Promoting Students’

(2023). Approaches to Integration: An Analysis

Individuals with Special Healthcare Needs.

Understanding of Unit Iteration. Journal of

of STEM Methods Course Syllabi. 2023

Wisconsin Dental Hygiene Association/

Korean Society in Mathematics Education

Annual AMTE (Association of Mathematics

INDIGO. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Hunt, K.

Series D, 25; Yang, X., & Pak, B. (2023).

Teacher Educators) Conference. New Orleans,

D. (2022, October). Should I stay or Should I go,

Pedagogical Challenges of Immigrant Minority

Louisiana.

Now? Wisconsin Dental Hygiene Association/

Teacher Educators: An Autoethnography

DENTAL HYGIENE

Indigo. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.

Study. MOFET’s 8th International Conference

FAMILY STUDIES & HUMAN

on Teacher Education; Pak, B. (2023). Exploring

DEVELOPMENT

WELCH, LISA M, Associate Professor

Ways to Utilize Virtual Reality Headsets in

of Dental Hygiene: Welch, L. M. (2023).

Support of Prospective Teachers’ Noticing

WRIGHT, LINDA M, Assistant Professor

The Patient with a Blood Disorder Ch 62.

and Reflection. 2023 Teaching Learning and

of Family & Consumer Science: Wright, L.

In Wilkins’ Clinical Practice of the Dental

Student Success Conference; Cavanna, J., Pak,

M. (2023, April). Fabulous Food Adventures

Hygienist 14th edition. Jones and Bartlett

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 41

SCHOLARLY & CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FALL 2022 - SUMMER 2023 Learning; Welch, L. M., & Hawkins, A. (2023,

H. (2022, Autumn). Becoming an Effective

Cancer Awareness Month: My Experience

February). Undergraduate Research Student:

Preceptor. Utah State Assembly Workshop.

with Inflammatory Breast Cancer. Utah Tech

An Investigation into the Efficacy of Dental

Provo, Ut: Association of Surgical Technology.

Student Nurses October Meeting. UT Taylor

Hygiene Practice using a Virtual Reality

Health Sciences Room 158; St. George, UT:

Application Compared with Traditional

WILCOX, DREW D, Assistant Professor

Utah Tech Student Nurses; Lewis, C. (2023).

P ra c t i c e M e t h o d s . U t a h C o n fe re n c e

of Physical Therapy: Wilcox, D. D., Holly, C.,

Contemporary Nursing OpenCourseware.

for Undergraduate Research. Salt Lake

Wallen, N., & Yates, D. (2022, November).

Merlot.org; Lewis, C. (2023). Contemporary

City; Welch, L. M. (2021, June). Cultural

Strategies for Improving Licensure Pass Rates:

Nursing OpenCourseware. Utah Tech

Competence of Dental Hygienists Practicing

Success Despite COVID. Academy of Education

University Library; Lewis, C. (2022). NURS

in a Region of Low Diversity. American Dental

Webinar Series. Online: American Physical

3823 Care of Patients Across the Lifespan

Educators Association Program Director

Therapy Association.

II Simulation: Adjunct Faculty Teaching

AnnualCconference. Online; Welch, L. M. (2020). Diversity in Dental Hygiene. Guest

Materials for Simulations 1 - 4. UT Nursing

NURSING

Speaker on a Podcast.

HEALTH & HUMAN PERFORMANCE

Department; Lewis, C. NURS 3823 Care of Patients Across the LIfespan II Simulation Day

FAWNS, TRACY, Assistant Professor of

1; Clinical Reasoning Case Study 2: Lincoln

Nursing: Fawns, T. EBP Projects at 2023 UT

Stark and Karthik Subramanian, Utah Tech

Trailblazer Symposium; Fawns, T. (2023).

University 9 (2022); Lewis, C. (Ed.). (2022,

LOVELL, JOSEPH, Associate Professor of

CTL “IRB Questions & Answers.” Utah Tech

Autumn). Music Therapy in Combination

Recreation and Sports Management: Lovell,

University; Fawns, T. (2023, March). Evidence-

with Standard Care Affecting Healing Time:

J. (2022). London: Sport and Culture Study

Based Practice and Research Methodologies

A Review of the Literature. CHS Annual

Abroad.

Textbook Showcase. Open Education Global

Research Symposium. Taylor Health Science

- Utah Open Academic Library Consortium

Building, St. George, UT: UT College of Health

PANTOVIC, MILAN, Assistant Professor

(UALC) OpenEd Highlights. Virtual; Fawns, T.

Sciences. Lewis, C. (Ed.). (2022, Autumn).

of Exercise Science: Pantovic, M. (2022,

(2022, December). Recruiting, Training, and

Peppermint Aromatherapy for Nausea Relief

November). The influence of transcranial

Retaining IRB Chairs. PRIM&R. Livestream:

in Post-Operative Patients: A Review of the

alternating current stimulation of primary

Public Responsibility in Medicine and

Literature. College of Health Sciences Annual

m o to r c o r te x o n o v e r h a n d t h ro w i n g

Research.

Research Symposium. Utah Tech University: UT College of Health Sciences.

performance. Society for Neuroscience. San Diego, California.

LEWIS, CAROLYN, Assistant Professor of Nursing: Lewis, C. (2023, June). Developing

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

HEALTHCARE, DIAGNOSTICS, &

Nursing Students’ Clinical Judgement Through

THERAPEUTICS

Active Learning in the Simulation Lab. Global

LAWSON, KRISTY, Assistant Professor of

Polytechnic Conference. Utah Tech University,

Occupational Therapy: Lawson, K. L. (2022).

HUSSELBEE, GAYLE C, Assistant Professor

St. George, UT; Lewis, C. (2023, March).

CPR for the Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider;

of Medical Laboratory Sciences: Husselbee, G.

Developing Nursing Student Clinical Judgment

Lawson, K. L. (2022). Intro to OT. Utah Tech

C. (2022). College of Health Sciences - Medical

Skills Through Active Learning Simulation

University - Health Career Exploration Course;

Laboratory Science. Utah Tech University/

Experiences. Utah Academy of Science, Arts

Lawson, K. L. (2022, November). Introduction

YouTube.

and Letters Annual Conference. Waterford

to Occupational Therapy and How it Relates

School, Sandy, UT; Lewis, C. (2023, February).

to Domestic Violence. Dove Center.

OSNESS, HEATHER, Program Director

The Role of the Oncology Nurse. USNA Annual

/ Instructor of the Practice in Surgical

Student Nurses Convention: Answering the

Technology: Osness, H. (2023, Spring). Back

Call to Nursing. Layton, UT, Weber State

to Basics. Spring Workshop. Provo, UT:

University: Utah Student Nurses Association;

Association of Surgical Technology; Osness,

Lewis, C. (2022, Autumn). October is Breast

42 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Journal; Parinandi, N., Liaugminas, A., Oliver,

to the Study of Interpersonal Communication:

P., Varadharaj, S., Yenigalla, A., Elliott, A.,

Descriptive features of the Social Network.

… Hund, T. (2023). Classic phytochemical

Journal of Social Psychology Research;

antioxidant and lipoxygenase inhibitor,

Stein, J. B. Exploring the Direct and Indirect

APPLIED SOCIOLOGY & CRIMINAL

n o rd i h y d ro g u a i a re t i c a c i d , a c t i v a te s

Effects that Network-Based Measures Share

JUSTICE

phospholipase D through oxidant signaling

with Measures and Outcomes of Attachment

COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES

and tyrosine phosphorylation leading to

Theory. Pennsylvania Communication Annual;

ABBOTT, JESSICA A, Associate Professor

cytotoxicity in lung vascular endothelial

Stein, J. B., Fiori, K. L., & Murphy, B. (2022).

of Criminal Justice: Abbott, J. A., & McGrath,

cells; Parinandi NL, Liaugminas A, Oliver PJ,

Exploring the Direct and Indirect Effects

S. A. (2022). A Case Study of the Spatial

Varadharaj S, Yenigalla A, Elliott AC, Arutla S,

that Network- Based Measures Share with

Distribution of Property Crime on an Urban

Campbell SJ, Kotha SR, Sherwani SI, Kutala

Measures and Outcomes of Attachment

University Campus. In Campus Crime: Legal,

VK, McDaniel JC, Maddipati KR, Kuppusamy

Theory. Pennsylvania Communication Annual;

Social, and Policy Perspectives (pp. 189–

P, Hund TJ. Cell Biochemistry and Biophysics;

Stein, J. B., van Raalte, L. J., Blackburn, B.

216). Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas

Khan, F. M., Khan, S. A., Shamim, K., Gupta, G.,

M., Jones, S. E., & Flores, C. A. Panel Title:

Publishers; Abbott, J. A., & McGrath, S. A.

& Sherwani, S. I. (2022). Analysing customers’

“Well-being by Well…Being”: Managing Human

(2022, October). Revisiting the Impact of Police

reviews and ratings for online food deliveries:

Connection in a Post-Graduate School, Post/

Effort on Violent Victims’ Fear: Race as an

A text mining approach. International Journal

Mid-COVID Academic Environment.; Stein,

Additive or Interactional Effect. Mid-South

of Consumer Studies; Sherwani, F. A., Khan, F.

J. B., Suwinyattichaiporn, T., Generous, M.,

Sociological Association. Nashville, TN: Mid-

M., & Sherwani, S. I. (2022). Gender, physical

Solomon, C., Papakonstantinidis, S., & Chen,

South Sociological Association.

health, and mental health: Closing the gap

T.-C. Panel Title: Love is in the Metaverse..

of gender health disparities for healing a

PHELAN, KOREY S, Assistant Professor

nation. In Gender equality for a better world:

of Criminal Justice: Phelan, K. S. (2023). The

Issues and challenges. Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh:

Impact of Victimization on Emotional and

Aligarh Muslim University Press; Sherwani, S.

ARMSTRONG, STEPHEN B, Professor

Behavioral Outcomes Among American Indian

I. (2021). Communication strategies: Barriers

of English: Armstrong, S. B. (2022, March).

Youth; Phelan, K. S. (2023, February). Juvenile

and bridges to leadership and organizational

Understanding through Experience: Working

Justice Reform. Utah Tech Institute of Politics:

communication. In Academic Leadership Leap

with Students and a DSU Learning Mini-Grant.

Pizza and Politics. St. George, UT.

(pp. 50–72). Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh: Brown

ENGLISH

Book Publications; Sherwani, S. I. (2022).

YILDIZ, MUHAMMED, Assistant Professor

BACABAC, FLORENCE ELIZABETH,

Class Teaching Activity: Method to Madness.

Professor of English: Bacabac, F. E. (2023,

of Sociology: Yildiz, M., Orak, U., & Aydogdu, R.

Utah Tech University; Sherwani, S. I. (2022,

July). Composing Digital Vision Boards.

(2022). Enduring Effects of Early Life Traumas

November). Transformational Leadership:

eSmart Camp for Girls. Snow Building 144;

on Adult Suicidal Ideation. Journal of Child &

Emotional Intelligence and Intercultural

Bacabac, F. E. (2023, June). “Advancing

Adolescent Trauma, Online First.

Communication as Essential Competencies in

Global Englishes through Digital Media in

University Social Responsibility. International

Professional Writing.” 2023 Global Polytechnic

University Social Responsibility Summit. The

Summit. Utah Tech University, St. George,

COMMUNICATION

Hong Kong Polytechnic University: The Hong

Utah: Global Polytechnic Education Alliance;

SHERWANI, SHARIQ, Assistant Professor

Kong Polytechnic University and the University

Bacabac, F. E. (2023, April). “Summer 2023

of Communication: Bates, B. R., Sherwani,

Social Responsibility Network (USRN).

English 1010/2010 Combo-Course Pilot

S. I., & Grijalva, M. J. Charitable giving in

Program Training.” Training for Juvenile

the context of unfamiliar organizations:

STEIN, JAMES B, Assistant Professor of

Justice and Youth Services (JJYS) – Higher

The effectiveness of construal level theory

Communication: Stein, J. B. Center of Teaching

Education for Incarcerated Youth (HEIY)

in predicting donating intentions and

& Learning Presents: ChatGPT Panel; Stein, J.

Composition Instructors. Zoom webinar:

antecedents. Southern Communication

B. Applying Hierarchical Mapping Technique

English Department, Utah Tech University;

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 43

SCHOLARLY & CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FALL 2022 - SUMMER 2023 Bacabac, F. E. (2022). “On Digital Forums

South. New Orleans, LA; King, C. E. Anamnesis.

Seventeenth to the Late Nineteenth Century.

and Community Support During COVID: A

Bayou Magazine; King, C. E. Corpus. Cola

International Journal of Lexicography, 20,

Reflective Account.” The Journal of Multimodal

Literary Review; King, C. E. Getting Over.

1–15.

Rhetorics, 6.

TriQuarterly.

COMEFORD, AMI JO, Professor of English:

PETERSON, MIKE K, Associate Professor

of Humanities: Rosetti, C. M. (2023). “Fast

Comeford, A. J., & Burnett, T. (Eds.). (2022).

of English: Peterson, M. K. (2023, March).

from that Which is Not Perfect”: Food

Blood, Body, and Soul: Health, Wellness, and

How to Grade Quickly. Composition Best

Abstinence and Fasting Cures in the Kingdom

(Dis)ability in Joss Whedon’s World. McFarland

Practices Panel Discussion on Grading. Utah

of God. Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon

& Company, Inc. North Carolina: McFarland

Tech English Department.

Thought; Rosetti, C. M. (2023). No Poor

ROSETTI, CRISTINA M, Assistant Professor

& Company, Inc.

Among Them: Poverty and Mormonism’s

WIGHT, SHAUNA S, Assistant Professor of

Trek Toward Secularism. Mormon Studies

CRENSHAW, CHERI R, Professor of English:

English: Wight, S. S., Schatzberg, W., & Hotez,

Review, 10, 21–30; Rosetti, C. M. (2023). The

Crenshaw, C. R. (2023). “Being Human Podcast

B. (2023). Using Metacognition, Reflection,

First Mexican Apostle: Margarito Bautista

Explores Relationship Between Humanity and

and Transfer toImprove Student Learning

and Global Mormon Fundamentalism.

Technology.” Utah Tech University: Academic

Across the Disciplines. Saint George, UT: Utah

Journal of Mormon History; Rosetti, C. M.

Report 2022, 28.

Tech University; Wight, S. S. (2021, November).

(2022). Fasting in the Kingdom of God. In

Underrepresented Students and Disciplinary

Exploring the Religio-Medical Imaginaries

HOPE, LACY C, Assistant Professor of

Writing. Symposium on Equity, Diversity, and

of Mormonism.” Roundtable; Rosetti, C. M.

English: Hope, L. C. (2023, June). Fighting

Inclusion. Salt Lake City, UT: University of Utah

(2022). The Mormonism(s) of Under the

Planned Obsolescence: Using and Creating

Department of Rhetoric and Writing Studies.

Banner of Heaven. In Mormonism and Under the Banner of Heaven Round Table; Rosetti,

Open Resources in the Technical Writing Classroom to Amplify Active Learning and

WREDE, THEDA, Professor of English:

C. M. (2022). Uncovering the “End” of LDS

Reduce E-waste. GPEA Polytechnic Summit

Wrede, T., & Jin, Z. (2023, March). GIS

Polygamy: D. Michael Quinn and the Sacred

2023. Utah Tech University, St. George, UT;

Mapping and English: Interdisciplinary

Work of History. In DNA Mormon: Perspectives

Hope, L. C. (2023, June). “Cookie Compliance:

Research Projects in the Humanities. Utah

on the Legacy of Historian D. Michael Quinn

Investigating the Rhetorical Strategies of Digital

Tech Teaching and Learning Conference;

(p. 175). Salt Lake City, UT: Signature Books;

Gathering Practices.” ATTW 2023 Conference.

Wrede, T., Chamberlain, J., Nuzman, A.,

Rosetti, C. M. (2022). Polygamy, Incest, and

Virtual Conference: Association of Teachers

Stanfield, B., Kirkman, A., Mildenhall, E., …

Mormons in Media. The Revealer, September

of Technical Writing.

Wawrzyniak, M. (2023, Spring). The Stories

2022.

Told about Southern Utah: Using Digital

PSYCHOLOGY

HOTEZ, BROOKE E, Assistant Professor

Humanities Tools to Research the Region.

of English: Hotez, B. E. (2023, February).

DHU 7. Cedar City: SUU; Wrede, T. (2022).

Rhetorical Uses of Antisemitism and Jewish

The Thirdspace of the Borderlands in Luis

BELL, SARAH N, Assistant Professor of

Dissent for Palestinian Rights. Conference

Alberto Urrea’s The House of Broken Angels:

Psychology: Jimenez, F., & Bell, S. N. (2023).

on College Composition & Communication

A Geocritical Reading.. MELUS, 47, 171–191.

IRGI Film Series: Breaking Through: Francisco Jimenez; Bell, S. N., Ross, N., & Meng, N.

Annual Convention. Chicago.

KING, CINDY E, Assistant Professor of

HISTORY, HUMANITIES, & MODERN

(2023). IRGI Film Series: Elder: A Love Story and

LANGUAGES

Panel Discussion; Bell, S. N. (2023). IRGI FIlm Series: Paris is Burning; Bell, S. N. (2023). IRGI

English: King, C. E. (2022). Festival Poet: Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival; King, C.

LOVELAND, JEFF A, Visiting Instructor of

Film Series: Southern Comfort Documentary;

E. (2022). Poetry Reading; King, C. E. (2022).

the Practice in History: Loveland, J. A. (2023).

Bell, S. N., McPhail, H., Sanchez, K., Stratton,

Selections from Zoonotic. Popular Culture

Verbs and Adjectives to Nouns: The Evolution

E., & Rondinelli, A. (2023). An Observational

Association/American Culture Association

of Headwords in Encyclopedias from the Late

Study of Pedestrian Behaviors at Utah Tech.

44 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Beesley,

N., Ray, K., & Jorgensen, K. (2022). Social Media

S. N., Ray, K., Shaw, N., & Jorgensen, K. (2022).

K., Harrison, J., Benson, R., & Steadman, A.

Use & Anxiety. Supervised Research; Bell, S.

Social Media & Anxiety. Supervised Research;

(2023). Observed Pedestrian and Vehicle

N., Smith, J., Paice, G., & McNeil, S. (2022).

Artistic and Professional Production; Bell, S. N.

Behaviors at Utah Tech. Supervised Research;

The Five Love Languages and Relationship

(2022). Female Pleasure & Disorders Podcast.

Bell, S. N., Hilton, R., Cowan, D., Worthington,

Satisfaction. Supervised Research; Bell, S. N.,

The Vagina Blog Podcast; Lee, S., & Bell, S. N.

K., & Woodland, K. (2023). Pedestrian and

McPhail, H., Stratton, E., Sanchez-Colocho, K.,

(2022). Remember the 43 Students. Hosted

Driver Behavior: An Observational Study

& Rondinelli, A. (2023). Increasing Pedestrian

at Utah Tech.

at Signalized and Unsignalized Crossings.

Safety Around College Campuses. Supervised

Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Stolworthy,

Research; Bell, S. N., Thorpe, J., Acevedo, M.,

OLSON, KRISTINE J, Professor of

A., Balaceanu, M., & Chambers, W. (2023).

& Rogers, L. (2023). Observed Pedestrian and

Psychology: Olson, K. J., Ortiz, E., Jacobsen,

Pedestrian and Driver Behavior: A Safety

Vehicle Behaviors: An Observational Study.

J., & Cloward, M. The Efficacy of Servant

Risk Around College Campuses. Supervised

Supervised Research. Bell, S. N., Beesley, K.,

Leadership with Hospital Employees. European

Research; Bell, S. N., Acevedo, M., Rogers, L.,

Harrison, J., & Benson, R. (2023). Observed

Association of Work and Organisational

& Thorpe, J. (2023). Pedestrian and Vehicle

Pedestrian Behaviors. Supervised Research;

Psychology. Katowice, Poland; Olson, K.

Behavior: An Observational Study. Supervised

Bell, S. N., Woodland, K., Worthington, K.,

J. (2023, March). Guest Lecture, Human

Research; Bell, S. N., Brotherson, A., Strange,

Cowan, D., & Hilton, R. (2023). Pedestrian

Resource Management and Workplace

T., Wright, L., & Richardson, M. (2023).

& Vehicle Behavior. Supervised Research;

Conflict Management in the US Workplace.

Pedestrian and Vehicle Behavior at Utah

Bell, S. N., Chambers, W., Balaceanu, M., &

Guest Lecture: International Human Resource

Tech. Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Daines,

Stolworthy, A. (2023). Pedestrian and Driver

Management Graduate Class. University of

A., Lund, B., Bird, P., & Terrell, A. (2023).

Behavior: A Safety Risk Around College

Birmingham, England; Olson, K. J., & Hopkins,

Pedestrian Crossing Behavior and Solutions

Campuses. Supervised Research; Bell, S. N.,

B. (2023, April). Primary and Secondary

for Increased Safety. Supervised Research;

Brotherson, A., Richardson, M., Wright, L.,

Labor Market Frames of Reference During

Bell, S. N., Hiatt, J., Andresen, S., & Eberhard,

& Strange, T. (2023). Pedestrian and Vehicle

the Era of Brexit, Covid-19, and the Russia-

D. (2023). The Behavior of Pedestrians Near

Behaviors. Supervised Research; Bell, S. N.,

Ukraine Conflict. International Labour

Street Crossings. Supervised Research; Bell, S.

Terrell, A., Lund, B., Daines, A., & Bird, P.

Processes Conference. Glasgow, Scotland;

N., Jacobson, C., Carlson, J., Fish, B., & Gilman,

(2023). Pedestrian Crossings Behavior and

Olson, K. J., & Ortiz, E. (2023, September).

Q. (2023). The Problem of Visibility: Unsafe

Solutions for Increased Safety. Supervised

The Efficacy of Servant Leadership among

Motorist and Pedestrian Crosswalk Behavior.

Research; Bell, S. N., Andresen, S., Eberhard,

Hospital Employees. Utah Tech CHaSS Brown

Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Cuison, D.,

D., & Hiatt, J. (2023). Street Behaviors of

Bag Seminar Series. Utah Tech College of

McGarry, J., Moulton, M., & Jones, E. (2022).

Drivers and Pedestrians. Supervised Research;

Humanities and Social Sciences.

Attachment Security and Prosocial Behaviors.

Bell, S. N., Jacobson, C., Fish, B., Gilman, Q., &

Supervised Research. Bell, S. N., Mitchell, H.,

Carlson, J. (2023). The Problem of Jaywalking.

Suhaka, T., Critchlow, A., Roberts, E., & Smith,

Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Cuison, D.,

A. (2022). Correlation Between College Major

McGarry, J., Moulton, M., & Jones, E. (2022).

and Political Identity. Supervised Research;

Attachment Security and Prosocial Behaviors.

Bell, S. N., Snuffer, C., & Gibson, J. (2022).

Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Snuffer, C.,

Exercise & Academics. Supervised Research;

& Gibson, J. (2022). Exercise and Academics.

Bell, S. N., Keyes, M., Lockard, L., & Madsen,

Supervised Research; Bell, S. N., Keyes, M.,

BAKELAR, JEREMY W, Assistant Professor

K. (2022). Perceived Use of Love Languages

Madsen, K., & Lockard, L. (2022). Perceived

of Biology: Bakelar, J. W. (2023, June). Bringing

and Relationship Satisfaction. Supervised

Use of Love Languages & Relationship

Student Driven, Faculty Mentored Research

Research; Bell, S. N., Anderson, E., Nelson,

Satisfaction. Supervised Research; Bell, S. N.,

to the Classroom. 2023 Global Polytechnic

J., Querales, K., & Schoenfeld, M. (2022).

Mitchell, H., Suhaka, T., Smith, A., Critchlow,

Summit. St George, UT: Utah Tech University.

Relationship Satisfaction and Attachment

A., & Roberts, E. (2022). Political Identification

Styles. Supervised Research. Bell, S. N., Shaw,

and College Major. Supervised Research. Bell,

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

BIOLOGY

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 45

SCHOLARLY & CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FALL 2022 - SUMMER 2023 SHIH, HUNG YU, Assistant Professor of

and reversible reactivity. American Chemical

Tech City Alliance End-of-Year Celebration.

Biology: Shih, H.-Y., Chang, C.-W., Chen, Y.-C.,

Society Western Regional Meeting (WRM).

Utah Tech University: Community Engaged

& Cheng, Y.-C. (2023). Identification of the

Las Vegas, NV: American Chemical Society;

Learning Office; Jin, Z. (2023, April). Riparian

Time Period during Which BMP Signaling

Fairbanks, L., & Del Sesto, R. (2022). Surface

Restoration GIS Database. Utah Tech City

Regulates Proliferation of Neural Progenitor

interactions of antimicrobial ionic liquids.

Alliance End-of-Year Celebration. Utah Tech

Cells in Zebrafish. International Journal of

American Chemical Society Western Regional

University: Community Engaged Learning

Molecular Sciences, 24.

Meeting (WRM). Las Vegas, NV: American

Office; Jin, Z. (2022, October). Drone Research

Chemical Society.

at Utah Tech University. G5 GIS Meetup.

VAN DER MERWE, MARIUS, Professor of

Electric Theatre, St. George GIS office.

Biology: Van der Merwe, M. (2022). SNAPSHOT

SCHATZBERG, WENDY E, Associate

USA 2020: A Second Coordinated National

Professor of Chemistry: Schatzberg, W.

TYE, ALEX R, Assistant Professor of Geology:

Camera Trap Survey of the United States

E. (2023, March). Using Metacognition,

Tye, A. R., & Niemi, N. (2022). Detrital zircon

During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Ecology

Reflection, and Transfer to Improve Student

ages from Paleogene paleochannel deposits

online library.

Learning Across the Disciplines. Teaching,

of the northern Sierra Nevada and western

Learning, and Student Success Conference.

Nevada: Implications for Paleogene drainage

Utah Tech University; Schatzberg, W. E.

configuration and evolution. In Geological

CHEMISTRY

(2023, March). Using Eye Tracking to Improve

Society of America Thompson Field Forum;

C H I L O M , G A B R I E L A , P ro fe s s o r o f

Exam Question Design. Teaching Learning

Tye, A. R., McMillan, M., & Schoenbohm, L.

Chemistr y: Chilom, G., Shelton, E., &

and Student Success Conference. Utah Tech

(2022). Lithospheric foundering recorded

Johnson, D. (2022, April). Soil organic matter:

University.

by the complex Miocene to Quaternary tectonic evolution of the southern Puna

quantifying the potential for carbon sorption of local soils. Dixie Research Symposium. Utah

COMPUTING AND DESIGN

plateau, Argentina. In Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs; Bilderback,

Tech University; Chilom, G., Holden, M., & Richardson, S. (2020, March). Comparative

QUINN, REN LORENZO, Assistant

E., Henderek, R., Zyatitsky, K., Tye, A. R.,

study of humic acids from soils and from

Professor of Computer Science: Quinn, R. L.

Krolczyk, E. T., Mahan, S., … Wood, J. R.

leaves. ACS National Meeting. Philadelphia:

(2022). BS Data Science -- Proposal.

(2022). Rock avalanche records in Zion National Park: Toward a better understanding

American Chemical Society; Chilom, G., Dustin, M., Holden, M., & Peterson, R. (2020,

EARTH & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

of potentially hazardous erosion in Zion canyon. In Geological Society of America

February). Heavy Metals Analysis of Particulate Matter Removed by Trees. UCUR. Utah State

JIN, ZHENYU, Assistant Professor of

Abstracts with Programs; Tye, A. R., Lamb,

University.

Geography/GIS: Maplewood, I., & Jin, Z.

A., & Zhou, R. (2022). Stratigraphy and

(2023, April). Handicap Access on Utah Tech

detrital zircon U-Pb age provenance of the

DEL SESTO, RICO, Associate Professor of

Campus. Utah Tech Research Symposium.

Paleogene Claron Formation and underlying

Chemistry: Li, L., Shapiro, R., Joo, M. K., Hsueh,

Undergraduate Research Office, Utah Tech

strata, southwestern Utah: Transition from

H., Gutierrez, O. B., Halpert, G., … Selaru, F.

University; Cowley, J., & Jin, Z. (2023,

Sevier to Laramide sources. In Geological

(2023). Injectable, Drug-Eluting Nanocrystals

February). Washington County Vineyard

Society of America Abstracts with Programs;

Prevent Fibrosis and Stricture Formation

Suitability Study. UCUR 2023. University

Senesac, C., Abbey, A. L., & Tye, A. R. (2022).

In Vivo. Gastroenterology, 164, 937–952;

of Utah. Cowley, J., & Jin, Z. (2023, March).

Understanding relationships between the

Diaz-Garcia, S., Staten, A., Luy, S., & Del

Washington County Vineyard Suitability

Arkansas River and rift related faulting in

Sesto, R. (2022). Formulation of amphiphilic

Study. AAG Annual Conference. Denver,

southern Colorado. In Geological Society

cannabinoids. American Chemical Society

CO: AAG; Jin, Z. (2023, April). Applied and

of America Abstracts with Programs; Tye, A.

Western Regional Meeting (WRM). Las Vegas,

Authentic Learning Demonstration. Utah

R., Niemi, N. A., Cowgill, E., Kadirov, F. A., &

NV: American Chemical Society; Flory, E., &

Tech CTL Workshop; Jin, Z. (2023, April).

Babayev, G. R. (2022). Diverse Deformation

Del Sesto, R. (2022). Pyridinium ionic liquids

ArcGIS Story Maps of Lava Flow Trail. Utah

Mechanisms and Lithologic Controls in an

46 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

Active Orogenic Wedge: Structural Geology

Jensen, Michael Schmidt, and Seth Green.

Southwest Symphony Orchestra; Francis,

and Thermochronometry of the Eastern

Christensen, S. S. (2022). 3rd Annual Zions

T. (2023). Music of James Bond, with guests

Greater Caucasus. Tectonics, 41; McMillan,

Bank Art Exhibition and Sale.

Morgan James and Hugh Panaro. Southwest

M., Schoenbohm, L. M., Tye, A., McMillan, M.

Symphony Orchestra;Francis, T. (2023). Saint

F., & Zhou, R. (2022). Eocene to Quaternary

GATES, MEAGHAN M, Assistant Professor

George City Valentine Dance. Rebel Jazz Band;

Deformation of the Southern Puna Plateau:

of Art: Gates, M. M. An Articulation of

Francis, T. (2023). Saint George Jazz Festival

Thermochronology, Geochronology, and

Adaptation, Hodson Gallery, Tatem Art

Performance with Francisco Torres. Rebel

Structural Geology of an Andean Hinterland

Center, Hood College; Gates, M. M. Biomorphic

Jazz Band; Francis, T. (2023). Spring Jazz

Basin (NW Argentina). Tectonics, 41; Tye, A.,

Idyll, Queens City Clay; Gates, M. M. Clay

Concert. Rebel Jazz Band; Francis, T. (2023).

McMillan, M., Schoenbohm, L., & Zhou, R.

Invitational, Tilted Kiln; Gates, M. M.Pocosin

Tech, Tools, and Toys music festival. Music

(2022). Late Cenozoic extensional formation

Arts Featured Artists, American Craft Council

Faculty and Students; Francis, T. (2023). The

of the Antofalla Depression, Southern Puna

Baltimore; Gates, M. M. Utah Tech Ceramic

Redeemer, featuring Jenny Oaks Baker, with

Plateau, Argentina: an effect of lithospheric

Department Exhibition, North Plaza Gallery;

music written and arranged by Kurt Bestor.

foundering? Tectonics, 41.

Gates, M. M. (2023). An Articulation of

Southwest Symphony Orchestra, Jenny Oaks

Adaptation, solo exhibition.

Baker, Guests; Francis, T. A Touch of Frost

MATHEMATICS

- Southwest Symphony Holiday Concert.

MUSIC

Southwest Symphony Orchestra; Francis,

SULLIVAN, MCKAY, Associate Professor

T. (2022). Costume Dance. Rebel Jazz Band;

of Mathematics: Sullivan, M., Ionita, C., &

ALLRED, NANCY C, Professor of Music:

Francis, T. Ding Dong, for bass and computer.

Hicks, J. W. (2022, August). Faculty OER

Allred, N. C. (2023). An Evening of Music.

Robert Matheson; Francis, T. Halloween

Panel - Department Perspective. Utah Tech Fall

Linda Pellegrine and Nancy Allred; Allred, N.

Spooktacular: A Ghoulish Adventure.

Faculty Forum. Saint George, Utah; Sullivan, M.

C. (2022). Christmas Concert: Carols of Joy.

Southwest Symphony Orchestra; Francis,

(2022, November). Undergraduate Research

UT Music Faculty and Guest Violinist; Allred,

T. (2022). Holiday Jazz Concert. Rebel Jazz

through Student Exploration. Utah Tech New

N. C. (2022). UT Music Faculty Recital; Allred,

Band; Francis, T. (2022). Micro Music Concert.

Faculty Seminar. Saint George, Utah.

N. C. (2022, November). Lecture - No Stopping:

Timothy Francis, with Students and Faculty;

How to Play Through a Mistake in Practice or

Francis, T. (2022). Mozart’s Requiem. Saint

Performance. Dr. Nancy Allred. Lehi, Utah:

George Interfaith Choir and Ad Hoc Orchestra.

COLLEGE OF THE ARTS

ART CHAMBERLAIN, ALEX T, Associate

Utah Music Teachers Association; Allred, N. C. (2022, December). Perfect Practice: Tips

HALE, ROGER H, Associate Professor of

for More Effective Practice and Performance.

Music: Hale, R. H. (2022). Messiah, by George

Utah Music Teachers Association - San Juan

Friedrich Handel - Unabridged. St. George

Chapter Meeting. San Juan, Utah (through

Chamber Singers; Hale, R. H. (2022). St. George

Zoom).

Chamber Singers Holiday Concert at the St. George Tabernacle; Hale, R. H. (2022). Utah

Professor of Art: Chamberlain, A. T., & Yule, J. V. (2023, March). Review of Paleontology:

FRANCIS, TIMOTHY, Associate Professor

Tech University Conducting Symposium.

An Illustrated History. The Quarterly Review

of Music: Francis, T. Southwest Symphony

Utah Tech Choirs; Hale, R. H. (2022, October).

of Biology. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago

Orchestra concert featuring Florence Price’s

Repertoire for Tight Budgets. Utah Choral

Press Journal.

Symphony 1. Southwest Symphony Orchestra.

Directors Association - Fall Conference. Sandy,

CHRISTENSEN, SHANE, Associate

Francis, T. (2023). Armed Forces Day Dance

Professor of Art: Christensen, S. S. (2021).

at the Airport Museum. Rebel Jazz Band;

Ceramic Vessels: Breadth Ceramics Workshop/

Francis, T. (2023). Beethoven Symphony 9.

RHODES, RHONDA L, Assistant Professor

lecture Purdue University Fort Wayne. Shane

Southwest Symphony Orchestra; Francis,

of Music: Rhodes, R. L., Peterson, B., Hill-

Christensen, Stephen Heywood, Brian

T. (2023). Carnival of the Animals, etc.

Hand, J., & New, S. (2023). Collaboration with

UT: ACDA-UTAH (American Choral Directors Association).

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 47

SCHOLARLY & CREATIVE ACTIVITIES FALL 2022 - SUMMER 2023 Woodwind Chamber Ensemble performance.

Symposium. Cox Performing Arts Center;

Final Concert. Festival Cello Ensemble and

Utah Tech University Woodwind Quartet;

Smith, B. W. (2022, August). Latter-day Saint

Ensemble Bravo; Yu, K.-W. (2022). Grand

Rhodes, R. L. (2023). Flute Choir. Utah Tech

Brass Bands - A cultural bridge between Utah

Circle New Music Concert. Grand Circle New

University Flute Choir; Rhodes, R. L. (2023).

and the Eastern United States. Fireside for

Music; Yu, K.-W. (2022). Guest Masterclass

Region 10 Solo & Ensemble Festival. Region

46+ Single Adults. St. George, UT, USA: The

Clinician for Gifted Music School; Yu, K.-W.

10 Woodwind Solo & Ensemble Entries;

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

(2022). Faculty Recital. Utah Tech University

Rhodes, R. L. (2023). Region 19 Solo &

Music Faculty; Yu, K.-W. (2023, March).

Ensemble Festival. Region 19 Instrumental

YU, KA-WAI, Associate Professor of Music:

Authenticity, Practicality, and Accessibility:

Soloists and Ensembles (Woodwind, Brass,

Yu, K.-W. (2023). Castle Rock String Camp

A Guide to Baroque Playing for String Players.

Percussion and String); Rhodes, R. L. (2023).

Faculty Recital; Yu, K.-W. (2023). Arizona State

American String Teachers Association National

Region 23 Solo & Ensemble Festival. Student

University Cello Master Class; Yu, K.-W. (2023).

Conference. Hyatt Regency Orlando; Yu, K.-W.

Instrumental Soloists and Ensemble Members

Cello Master Class for Jovonie Tejero’s cello

(2023, March). Cello in the 21st Century: A

from Region 23 High Schools; Rhodes, R. L.

studio at Nevada School of the Arts; Yu, K.-W.

Panel Discussion on Pedagogy and Creating

(2023). Southwest Symphony Orchestra -

(2023). Concert and Lecture at University

Pathways to Student Success. American String

Beethoven’s 9th Symphony; Rhodes, R. L.

of Utah. Utah Tech Early Music Ensemble;

Teachers Association National Conference.

(2023). Southwest Symphony Orchestra

Yu, K.-W. (2023). Concerto Soloist with BYU

Hyatt Regency Orlando.

Concert - Carnival of the Animals; Rhodes, R. L.

Idaho Baroque Ensemble; Yu, K.-W. (2023).

(2023). Southwest Symphony Orchestra Pops

Cosmopolitan Baroque Concert “Sonatas of

Concert - The Music of James Bond; Rhodes, R.

George Frideric Handel”; Yu, K.-W. (2023).

L. (2022). Complete Performance of “Messiah”

Lux Choral Society Concert. Lux Choral

BRUCE, BRANDON S, Assistant Professor

by George F. Handel. Southern Utah Chamber

Society: Lux Singers, Lux Men’s Chorus,

of Theatre Arts: Bruce, B. S. (2023). Macbeth

Singers and Chamber Orchestra; Rhodes, R.

and Lux Women’s Chorus, and Chamber

No. 9. Tumbleweed Theatre Company; Bruce,

L., & Towsey, M. (2022). Faculty Recital. Utah

Orchestra; Yu, K.-W. (2023). Master Musicians

B. S., & Echeverria, H. E. (2023). Macbeth No.

Tech University Music Department Faculty;

from Los Angeles. Chamber Music Society

9. Tumbleweed Theatre Company; Bruce,

Rhodes, R. L. (2022). Flute Choir. Utah Tech

of Southern Utah; Yu, K.-W. (2023). Soiree

B. S. (2023). Macbeth No. 9. Tumbleweed

University Flute Choir; Rhodes, R. L. (2022).

Musicale: Mykola Suk & Friends. Chamber

Theatre Company; Bruce, B. S. (2023). The

Flute Choir. Utah Tech University Flute Choir;

Music Society of Southern Utah; Yu, K.-W.

Great Potato Conspiracy. Center for the Arts

Rhodes, R. L. (2022). Southwest Symphony

(2023). Tucson Cello Congress Guest Artist.

at Kayenta; Bruce, B. S. (2023). Catch Me

Orchestra Christmas Concert - A Touch of

University of Arizona; Yu, K.-W. (2023). Zion

If You Can, the Musical. St. George Musical

Frost. Southwest Symphony Orchestra;

Trio Concert at Southern Utah University. Zion

Theatre; Bruce, B. S. (2023). Utah Tech’s

Rhodes, R. L. (2022). Southwest Symphony

Trio; Yu, K.-W. (2023). Zion Trio Concert at

2023 Student Directors Festival. Utah Tech’s

Orchestra - Halloween Spooktacular and

Utah Tech; Yu, K.-W. (2022–2023). Concerts

Theatre Program; Bruce, B. S., Davies, K. L.,

WCSD Outreach Concerts.

with Southwest Symphony Orchestra; Yu,

Richards, C. E. A., & Echeverria, H. E. (2022).

K.-W. (2022). Saarburg Music Festival Artist-

Count Dracula. Utah Tech Theatre Program;

SMITH, BRYANT W, Associate Professor

Faculty; Yu, K.-W. (2023). Handel: Messiah

Bruce, B. S., & Richards, C. E. A. (2022). Men

of Music: Smith, B. W. (2023). State Solo

- complete version. St. George Chamber

on Boats. Utah Tech Theatre Program; Bruce,

and Ensemble Festival Adjudication. State

Singers; Yu, K.-W. (2022). Beethoven: Piano

B. S. (2022). Men on Boats. Utah Tech Theatre

Solo and Ensemble Festival Adjudication;

Trio Op. 97 No. 1 “Archduke” and Dvorak

Program; Bruce, B. S. (2023, March). Engaging

Smith, B. W. (2023). St. George Jazz Festival

“Dumky” Trio. Chamber Music Society of

with Neurodivergent Students. Teaching,

Adjudication. St. George Jazz Festival; Smith,

Southern Utah; Yu, K.-W. (2022). Blue Sage

Learning and Student Success Conference.

B. W., & Matheson, R. N. (2022). Airship with

Center for the Arts Recital. Cosmopolitan

Utah Tech University.

the UT DEAP. UT Digital Electro Acoustic

Baroque; Yu, K.-W. (2022). Cello Concert at

Performance Ensemble; Smith, B. W. (2022).

Kayenta. St. George Chamber Singers; Yu,

Utah Tech University 4th Annual Conducting

K.-W. (2022). Cello Festival of Southern Utah

48 utahtech.edu | active learning. active life.

THEATRE & DANCE

GALLO, SARA, Associate Professor of

Weber, J. Y. (2022). Choreography in Men

Graduate Support: Lanners, E. L., & Stapley,

Dance: Gallo, S., Taft, T., & Larabee, A. (2023).

On Boats. Theater Program, Utah Tech

A. (2023). Introduction to OER. Teach and

Holding Space. Red Rock Dance Festival;

University; Weber, J. Y. (2023). DanceBARN

Learn with Open Education Resources:

Gallo, S., Taft, T., Larabee, A., & Shumway, K.

2023 Festival. DanceBARN; Weber, J. Y. (2023).

A Virtual Symposium for Utah Higher

(2023). Holding Space. UTU Dancers, Dance

Deconstructing. New Dance Foundation for

Education; Lanners, E. L. (2022). OER Support

in Concert; Gallo, S., Taft, T., Larrabee, A.,

the Arts.

& Resources for UT faculty. UT Fall Faculty Forum; Lanners, E. L., & Peterson-Fairchild,

& Shulman, K. (2023). Holding Space. UTU

K. (2022). The Final Piece of the Puzzle: Utah

Dancers, American College Dance Association Northwest Conference; Gallo, S., & Rose Riley,

LIBRARY

Tech University’s Journey to Legitimize OER in Tenure. Open Education Conference. Virtual;

S. (2023). Exquisite Eco-Somas, Workshop;

Lanners, E. L., Whitchurch, M., Western, S.,

Gallo, S. (2023, May). Holding Space: A Duet for the Self. Keynote. Eastwest Shin Somatics

BURNS, JOHN C, Associate Librarian: Burns,

& Kani, J. (2022). Using OER to Meet Diverse

Color Country Conference. Utah Tech

J. C. (2023, June). Teaching Students How

Community Needs: Case Studies and Tools.

University, St. George, UT: Utah Tech Dance

to Become Familiar with the Publications in

UALC Fall Forum; Lanners, E. L. Peer Review

Program, Eastwest Shin Somatics Network.

their Chosen Field of Study. Ebsco User Group

completed for MERLOT Library & Information

Conference 2023. Cincinnati, Ohio.

Services Editorial board for material “3 Ways

KOENIG, MATT PATRICK, Assistant

to Find Research Opportunities.”

Professor of Theatre Arts: Koenig, M. P. (2023).

LANNERS, EMMA LEIGH, Assistant

Winner of five Tony Awards, including Best

Librarian - Open Educational Resources and

Book and Best Original Score, The Drowsy Chaperone. Utah Tech Theatre; Koenig, M. P., & Shipley, M. (2022, July). Finding your Voice in Shakespeare’s Language. Converging Pathways. Sonoma State University: VASTA.

WEBER, JENNIFER Y, Assistant Professor o f D a n ce : We b e r, J . Y. ( 2 0 2 3 , J u n e ) .

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; Weber, J. Y., & Gallo, S. (2023, January).

How do I fit in? Embodying Change Through a Community-Responsive Dance Work. Zion Winter Retreat. Zion: EastWest Somatics; Weber, J. Y., Gallo, S., & Stich, E. (2022, October). How do I fit in? Embodying Change Through A Community-Responsive Dance Work. Let’s Make Dance Together: Reigniting the Creative Spark. Atlanta, GA: National Dance Education Organization; Weber, J. Y. (2023). The Wins and Woes of Victory. Dance Program, Utah Tech; Weber, J. Y. (2023). Vie. Flatlands Dance Theater.

Academic Report 2023 | Utah Tech University 49

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