2026 Scholarship
Symposium

Trickster stories are about survival in uncertain times. The Old Testament is filled with stories of tricksters, including Abraham, Jacob, Laban, Rebekah, Michal, and David. This presentation will include a discussion of the characteristics of tricksters and the historical reality of ancient Israel that likely leads to the telling of trickster narratives. The 1 Samuel 19:10-17 narrative of Michal using trickery to save the life of David will serve as an example.

This research study examines the contradiction between Iowa’s progressive legal reputation and the lived reality of racial inequality in Sioux City during the post-World War II era. While the state promoted early civil rights protections in areas such as voting, education and public accommodations, African American residents continue to experience systemic discrimination through informal and institutional practices. Focusing on housing, education, employment and the criminal justice system, this study highlights how de facto segregation- particularly through relining and neighborhood zoning-reinforced racial disparities despite the absence of Jim Crow laws. Central to this analysis is the 1949 Terry Lee Sims case, which illustrates racial bias in policing, legal proceedings, and media representation. Additionally, the paper explores the role of local activism, including the local chapter of the NAACP and community leaders in challenging these injustices. By situating Sioux City within broader narratives of the Civil Rights Movement, this research demonstrates that racial inequality was not confined to the American South but was deeply embedded in northern communities as well.

During his tenure as President between 1981 and 1989, Ronald Reagan both heightened and cooled Cold War tensions with the Soviet Union. Hollywood’s treatment of Cold War films in the 1980s served as a cultural mirror for the Administration’s changing outlook and policies relating to the Soviet Union. Utilizing speeches, government documents, interviews, and a textual analysis of 1980s movies, this paper examines the correlation between Reagan’s Cold War policies and 1980s popular culture. By exploring such topics as Reagan’s Star Wars program, nuclear proliferation, Soviet repression, and superpower rapprochement, the movies of the 1980s helped translate Reagan’s transformation from cold warrior in his first term to the second term diplomat who eased tensions and hastened an end to the Cold War.

Organized by Louis Farrakhan and Benjamin Chavez, the Million Man March of October 1995, encouraged Black men to take responsibility for their actions and enhance their duties as active citizens in the United States. By demonstrating unity, accountability and community engagement, the march countered negative stereotypes imposed on people of color. Utilizing historical analysis and contemporary sources, this thesis examines the social, economic, and cultural conditions of the early 1990s that led to the march. The paper also highlights key leaders and speakers of the Million Man March who helped foster a new sense of accountability and purpose for African American men.

Recent declines in first-time National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) pass rates have elicited Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) educators to identify predictors for success. As noted by existing literature, the overall cumulative grade point average while in a DPT program is a predictor of success on the NPTE. Furthermore, significant correlations have been found between longitudinal internal program data and graduate anatomy grades, as well as between undergraduate anatomy grades and graduate anatomy grades. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if significant relationships existed between specific factors of a student’s undergraduate anatomy course and a student’s grade in a graduate anatomy course to best predict success in a DPT program. A 13-item anonymous SurveyMonkey survey examined the following variables for students: anatomy coursework, academic performance, time since completion, and notable experiences. This survey was distributed to 45 DPT students at the host institution, generating 35 complete responses. This non-experimental study revealed that recent completion of undergraduate anatomy, authentic lab experiences, and engagement in anatomy-related extracurricular activities had a significant positive impact on graduate anatomy grades. SPSS-29 analytical software was utilized to calculate Pearson and Spearman correlation tests, chi-square analyses, and independent (non-paired) t-tests. These findings indicate that mode of delivery, timing of the course, and additional experiences related to undergraduate anatomy coursework are significant predictors of graduate-level anatomy performance. This information can help DPT admissions committees identify students who may benefit from additional anatomy preparation, so to ultimately support improved academic success, retention, and NPTE pass rates.

Introduction: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs have been shown to increase anxiety in DPT students. A recent study reported a positive correlation between anxiety and poor sleep quality in DPT students.1 Moreover, multiple research studies have reported poor sleep quality in DPT students. The purpose of this study was to investigate sleep quality and anxiety in first-year DPT students during their six months of the program. Methods: This longitudinal observational study tracked 27 first-year DPT students through the first six months of their DPT program. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) surveys were administered monthly. Repeated measures ANOVA assessed within-subject changes for sleep quality and anxiety. Significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The mean GAD-7 score was 5.41, while the mean PSQI total score was 5.20. The GAD-7 and PSQI data were both statistically significant during the six months of data collection. Discussion: The average GAD-7 scores indicated mild anxiety and support a previous study that assessed anxiety in DPT students.8 The average PSQI total score indicated poor sleep quality and is similar to five studies that assessed sleep quality in DPT students. Conclusion: Student well-being appears to be influenced by predictable curricular stress points. Proactive strategies should be incorporated to help minimize disruptions to sleep quality and anxiety among DPT students.

Sleep is known to play a major role in the physiological recovery for many factors, such as cognitive processing and athletic readiness, yet collegiate athletes frequently experience irregular sleep patterns due to rigorous schedules and competitive pressures. In a hypothetical cohort of 100 athletes aged 17-14 years across multiple sports, self-reported patterns of sleep duration, sleep quality and perceived performance would be examined to explore how these variables may interact with each other. Athletes in this scenario commonly would report sleeping between 6-7 hours per night, with fewer achieving the recommended 7-8 hours and an even smaller subset obtaining less than 5 hours. Sleep quality would generally be described as fair to good, which would suggest that optimal recovery conditions were not consistently achieved. Within this hypothetical framework, sleep appeared more strongly associated with the cognitive aspects of performance like focus, reaction time and decision-making rather than the physical attributes. Athletes perceived inadequate sleep as reducing motivation and onset fatigue as key limitations. Conceptually, these outcomes may be explained by circadian regulation mechanisms, where synchronization of molecular feedback loops involving CLOCK/BMAL1 activation and PER/CRY suppression could theoretically enhance sleep efficiency and support neurocognitive functions. Overall, this hypothetical model suggests that even modest disruptions in sleep duration and quality could negatively influence an athlete’s perceived athletic performance, especially through cognitive functions. High quality sleep is therefore proposed as a critical determinant of both mental and physical readiness, with circadian alignment representing a potential target for optimizing performance outcomes with collegiate athletes.

In the science of today we explore the possibilities of gene modification in humans. We mention the technology of CRISPR (Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) which is already being used for gene editing, the ethical barriers and restrictions that limit the progress of the research, and how genetic enhancements can be applied to human beings. In today’s world gene modification is already reality, for example, it is most prevalent in foods that we eat. GMOs (Genetically Modified Organism) have been a successful project by scientists for years. Scientists are now curious about the possibility about modification of humans. Can our bones be bigger? Can we be taller? Can we be born immune to disease? All of these are potential benefits that could come from genetic alteration.

El medievo ejerció una influencia profunda en la identidad y posición de cristianos, judíos y musulmanes, moldeando las dinámicas sociales, culturales y religiosas que aún resuenan en la actualidad. Durante este período, las interacciones entre estas tres comunidades fueron marcadas tanto por conflictos como por períodos de convivencia, como en la España medieval, donde la coexistencia de cristianos, musulmanes y judíos dio lugar a un intercambio cultural y científico significativo. Sin embargo, también hubo episodios de persecución y discriminación que dejaron cicatrices duraderas en la memoria colectiva de estos grupos. Estas experiencias históricas han contribuido a la formación de identidades religiosas y étnicas que continúan influyendo en las relaciones intercomunitarias y en la percepción de cada grupo en el mundo moderno.

Este sumario explora de manera general la idea de crear una escuela tecnológica para jóvenes de bajos recursos en Santiago Amoltepec, Oaxaca. El proyecto funcionaría gracias a un modelo de financiamiento mixto que combina becas, donaciones de negocios locales y un sistema de patrocinio internacional donde cualquier persona, desde cualquier parte del mundo, puede apoyar la educación de un estudiante. El propósito principal es entender cómo una iniciativa educativa como esta podría ayudar el desarrollo económico, social y tecnológico de una comunidad que históricamente ha enfrentado muchas limitaciones.

Drug trafficking is a critical issue affecting both Latin America and USA as the regions are interconnected through drug production transportation and consumption. In Latin America, trafficking contributes to cartel violence, corruption and forced migration. While in the U.S it fuels addiction, overdose, death, and incarceration. Research shows that the effective strategies to combat drug trafficking requires a balanced approach that combines strong law enforcement with prevention, rehabilitation, and treatment programs. Efforts such as community, education, drug courts, international cooperation and treating substance abuse as public health issue have showed greater long-term success in reducing violence and repeat offending. These issues are connected to health care and the criminal justice system, as addiction is both a medical condition and legal concern, requiring coordinated responses that prioritized accountability, rehabilitation, and human dignity. Understanding these connections is essential for our majors and future careers because we will serve individuals and communities that are directly affected by substance abuse and crime. Addressing drug trafficking promotes public health, reduces repeat offending, and strengthens a caring community and societal well being.

El fraude y las estafas relacionadas con el Seguro Social se han convertido en una preocupación creciente en los Estados Unidos, afectando a millones de personas vulnerables y costando al gobierno miles de millones de dólares anualmente. Esta investigación examina cómo una empresa independiente puede colaborar con la Administración del Seguro Social para desarrollar un sistema de verificación seguro y confiable con el objetivo de prevenir el fraude. La solución propuesta se centra en una plataforma impulsada por la tecnología que incorpora herramientas avanzadas de verificación de identidad, incluyendo autenticación biométrica, monitoreo de datos en tiempo real y detección de fraude basada en inteligencia artificial.

From Policy to Purpose examines an advocacy journey centered on Iowa House File 1036 (HF 1036) and demonstrates how a classroom assignment evolved into meaningful policy engagement and professional growth. As a social work student and Direct Support Professional at Lila Mae’s House, the author selected this legislation due to its potential to support survivors of human trafficking. Through policy analysis, legislative outreach, and advocacy efforts, the project provided firsthand experience with the policymaking process and emphasized the role of social workers in advancing social justice. Findings from this experience highlight the importance of persistence, relationship-building, and timing in effective advocacy. Engagement with policymakers and stakeholders deepened understanding of how policy influences services and outcomes for vulnerable populations. Additionally, the experience reinforced the integration of social work values into macro-level practice. This presentation demonstrates how academic assignments can serve as catalysts for purpose-driven action and underscores the capacity of emerging professionals to contribute to meaningful policy change. Keywords: social work, advocacy, policy practice, human trafficking, experiential learning

This study investigated the impact of a professor’s vocal cadence—defined as the modulation of pitch, pace, and inflection—on undergraduate student motivation and academic success. Utilizing a quasi-experimental, between-subjects design, data were collected from undergraduate students at a small private Midwestern university. Participants completed the Instructor Vocal Motivation Survey (IVMS), which measured perceptions of vocal delivery and perceived motivation based on the ARCS framework. Multiple regression analyses revealed that vocal delivery is a highly significant predictor of course enjoyment, accounting for 80% of the variance in student satisfaction Specifically, speaking pace and varied pitch and volume were identified as the strongest significant predictors of a positive student experience. However, vocal delivery did not significantly predict overall academic performance as measured by GPA, suggesting a potential "enthusiasm-achievement paradox" where delivery influences engagement more directly than objective academic markers. These findings suggest that while instructional prosody is critical for fostering an engaging learning environment, its direct influence on long-term academic outcomes requires further investigation into cognitive processing mechanisms.

The Franciscan principle of Peacemaking- promoting peace and non-violence, encouraging open dialogue, accepting differences, and resolving conflicts through respectful listening. These important moral counterpoints are what Cable News Network (CNN) has described the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) as “one of the five most dangerous criminal organizations in the world”. Supplying the USA with fentanyl, synthetic opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamines. CJNG formed around 2010-2011, splintering from the Milenio Cartel. This structure enables the CJNG to operate as a franchise, extending its reach to 27 of 32 Mexican states and building a global network. It is estimated that the CJNG has generated at least $10 million US dollars annually from fentanyl, synthetic opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamines. This number does not include the money made from the diverse activities such as money laundering, fuel theft, and sexual exploitation. To combat the CJNG, the U.S. government has designated it as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). FTO engages in any terrorism activity that threatens national security.

My study will research how different drawing methods will use the dominant hand, non-dominant hand, and both hands at the same time. And doing this will affect individuals’ perceived stress levels. The hypothesis shows that drawing with both hands at once will show the highest stress levels, followed by drawing with the non-dominant hand, while the dominant-hand condition will generate the lowest stress response. I will seek out 15 participants over a two-week period. During a 30-minute session, participants will complete the three drawing tasks replicating a provided image under each hand-use condition. After each session, they will complete a quantitative survey, including the Perceived Stress Scale, and a semi-structured interview to gage their emotional and cognitive reactions to the drawing experience. This project combines quantitative and qualitative analyses. Descriptive statistics will be used to assess stress level differences across the three drawing conditions, and thematic analysis will identify recurring emotional or cognitive patterns within participant interviews. The anticipated outcomes will contribute to a better understanding of how fine motor control, hand dominance, and the cognitive demands of unfamiliar artistic tasks interact to produce stress. The study’s findings will help research for art therapy and stress management practices, showing the benefits or challenges associated with non-dominant and ambidextrous exercises. Data will be securely collected via Survey Monkey and stored confidentially with all identifying information protected. Combining artistic process with the psychological mind and emotions, The Art of Coping explores how making art can mirror the human stress response.

This paper examines the rise of grunge music in the Pacific Northwest during the mid-1980s and how its mainstream breakthrough in the early 1990s served as both a reflection of and an influence on late twentieth-century American society. The grunge movement represents the disillusionment of Generation X, shaped by economic instability, deindustrialization, suburban malaise, and declining trust in institutions. Seattle’s geographic isolation and underground music scene created a distinct sound blending elements of punk and heavy metal. Grunge challenged cultural norms by rejecting consumerism, redefining masculinity, and dealing with emerging issues of identity and feminism. Grunge faced an ironic rise and fall, as the anti-corporate movement became commercialized and absorbed by the mainstream industry. The story of grunge demonstrates the relationship between music and the socio-economic conditions in which it develops.

In an oft-quoted meditation, the English poet Thomas Traherne exclaims, “The corn was orient and immortal wheat, which never should be reaped, nor was ever sown. I thought it had stood from everlasting to everlasting” (Centuries III.3). Traherne’s nostalgic encomium to childlike wonder expresses a mystical awakening to the truth of the world around him, to the gift of a place, and of a space, and its role in forming us. Whether upon the wheat or the people, Traherne’s spiritual eyes train on his world, and celebrate even the smallest creature. While romantic in its appeal, it’s hard not to envision the scene: Traherne’s spiritual landscape is named and described and known as particular and as his, evincing a form of rootedness in his landscape that guides his meditations. Following Simone Weil, rootedness is a spiritual need which demands an active, organic participation in a community which carries a tradition forward into the future; rootedness provides the foundation of a life for each person from the environment to which they belong. This paper explores the importance of environments in the formation of a spirituality, with particular emphasis on the concepts of personal and communal rootedness and en-joy-ment in and of creation. Traherne and Weil provide the theoretical grounding for a conceptualization of communal or even ecclesial life that attends to and incorporates the particularity of places and creatures into its vision of the whole, drawing each creature to its fulfillment alongside and perhaps within the pilgrim Church.

The U.S. Latino population is one of the fastest-growing groups, which makes it important for businesses and researchers to understand how to communicate with this market. Culture and language play a big role in how people understand marketing and how much they trust a brand. The purpose of this research is to explore how understanding Hispanic culture and speaking Spanish can give companies an advantage when marketing to the U.S. Latino population. This study is based on articles, data, and marketing research about Latino consumers, their cultural values, and how language affects communication. The results show that using Spanish and incorporating cultural elements in marketing helps build trust, increase interest, and foster stronger connections with Latino consumers. Values like family, community, and relationships are especially important. Companies that ignore these factors may find it harder to reach this audience. Overall, understanding Hispanic culture and using Spanish help businesses and psychologists communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and create more effective marketing in this growing market.

La Influencia Cultural del Grito de Dolores en México El Grito de Dolores, proclamado por Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla en 1810, marcó el comienzo de la Guerra de Independencia de México y se convirtió en un símbolo clave de la identidad nacional mexicana. Este evento representó la lucha del pueblo por la libertad y el fin del dominio español. Con el tiempo, el Grito de Dolores pasó de ser un llamado a la rebelión a convertirse en un símbolo cultural que une a los mexicanos y fortalece su sentido de nacionalismo. Cada año, durante la celebración del Día de la Independencia de México, el “grito” se repite para recordar la historia, los valores de unidad y el orgullo nacional del país. Este proyecto tiene como objetivo analizar cómo el Grito de Dolores influyó en la formación de la identidad cultural y el nacionalismo en México. A través de la investigación de su contexto histórico y su impacto en la sociedad, el proyecto explora cómo este evento se convirtió en un símbolo importante de unidad, orgullo y resistencia para el pueblo mexicano. También busca explicar por qué el Grito de Dolores sigue siendo recordado y celebrado hoy en día como una parte fundamental de la historia y la cultura de México

Abstract This presentation focuses on the complex care of a critically ill patient who experienced a severe traumatic brain injury following a motor vehicle accident while 16 weeks pregnant. The case highlights the physiological, emotional, ethical, and cultural challenges involved in caring for both the patient and the unborn child. The purpose of this presentation is to explore the patient’s clinical course, including her injuries, treatments, and current condition, while also examining the broader impact of her situation on herself and her family. This presentation will incorporate a nursing theoretical framework, specifically Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, to guide understanding of compassionate and ethical care. To incorporate art and science, an art project will be created showing two contrasting sides: one side will be a collage of the mother’s experience with traumatic brain injury, the accident, and the ICU, using darker, fragmented imagery to reflect trauma and loss. The other side will represent the unborn child, using lighter colors and symbols of growth to show hope and new life. This contrast emphasizes the coexistence of tragedy and hope and caring for two lives in crisis.

Abstract This presentation examines a complex emergency department case involving a 62-year-old male who rapidly deteriorated and progressed to cardiac arrest. The patient’s condition was complicated by a paced cardiac rhythm, which masked typical electrocardiogram findings and delayed clear diagnosis. Key clinical findings indicated a significant cardiac event with underlying respiratory failure. This case emphasizes the complexity of emergency care and the importance of rapid clinical judgment, effective teamwork, and clearly defined roles during resuscitation efforts. In addition to clinical management, this presentation explores the ethical and emotional dimensions of care through the lens of Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring. Emphasis is placed on maintaining patient dignity, supporting family members during crisis, and providing compassionate end of life care. The experienced fostered both personal and professional growth, enhancing confidence in critical care skills while reinforcing the value of communication and holistic, patient-centered practice. This presentation highlights the integration of technical expertise and compassionate care in delivering high quality nursing in emergency settings. In addition, a painting will represent the patient’s life, his health struggles and transition into the end of his life, symbolizing his passage into heaven.

Abstract This presentation describes the significant effects of sepsis on the overall health of a 65-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency department with confusion and an infected amputation site. As the patient was started on IV antibiotics for sepsis, the patient quickly progressed into septic shock and experienced severe cognitive deficits, including hallucinations, agitation, and disorientation. This highlights the connection between the physiological changes experienced by this patient due to sepsis and the associated emotional distress experienced by the patient and family members due to the rapid deterioration of the patient’s condition. The Sister Calista Roy Adaptation Model provides a theoretical framework to evaluate the real and psychological stressors affecting the patient’s ability to adapt to stressors, to understand the family’s need to adapt and transition to end-of-life care. Nursing interventions focused on infection management, ongoing assessment for possible deterioration, implementation of safety measures, and provision of comfort as a component of a holistic system of care for this patient. Family involvement and communication strategies emphasized comfort, dignity, and quality of life, which had a vital impact on the family’s experience. The overall experience of providing nursing care to this patient illustrates the integration of science and compassionate practice by nurses.

Abstract This project examines the integration of compassionate care and nursing theory in clinical practice. It is heavily influenced by a patient observed this year. It involves a 64-year-old male with Down syndrome who was on hospice and had no family or friends to be by his side at the end of life. He was admitted to the hospital for respiratory failure related to sepsis. This situation highlighted the importance of dignity, presence, and emotional support for patients with limited social connections at the end of life. Swanson’s Theory of Caring guided the nursing approach, emphasizing supporting belief, knowing, being with, doing for, and enabling to support holistic, patient-centered care. Kākau refers to special lineage tattoos from Kānaka Maoli (Hawaiians). Hawaiian culture is very family-oriented, loving, and supportive, which is why it is customary for Kānaka to receive a lineage tattoo that represents their journey, as well as their family’s journey. However, not everyone is blessed to have a strong support system, raising the question; If everyone were to receive a Kākau, what and who would they have to represent theirs?

Background and Significance: Emotional and psychological symptoms are common during the perimenopausal transition and can substantially affect emotional regulation. In several outpatient settings, management of these concerns remains inconsistent, with limited routine use of structured non-pharmacologic therapies. PICO Question: In perimenopausal patients, how does cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compared with current practice, affect emotional regulation? Implementation Plan: The initiative was guided by the Iowa Model Revised, and a pilot initiative was designed to implement a six-week CBT intervention within an outpatient women’s health clinic. Outcomes will be evaluated using the validated Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire administered before and after the intervention. Anticipated Results: Implementing CBT as a structured component of perimenopausal care has the potential to improve emotional regulation and support sustainable integration of evidence-based strategies in outpatient practice. Conclusion: The use of cognitive behavioral therapy may provide a treatment modality that affects perimenopausal emotional lability. Keywords: perimenopause, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotional symptoms, evidence-based practice, women’s health

Background and Significance: Depression is a mental health condition that does not discriminate against who it affects. Many individuals either do not receive treatment or care that may not lead to optimal outcomes. Incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with depression may improve outcomes and quality of life. The PICO question: in patients (P), how does cognitive behavior therapy (I), compared to current practice (C), affect depression (O)? Implementation Plan: The patient will complete a baseline Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) form after being deemed appropriate for inclusion by the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) on day one. A referral will then be sent to the Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) to initiate CBT sessions. On day 60, at the final appointment, the patient will complete a follow-up PHQ-9 questionnaire. The pre- and post- PHQ-9 scores will be entered into an Excel spreadsheet for analysis. Descriptive statistics, including mean, median, and mode, will be calculated to evaluate changes in depression severity and determine the effectiveness of CBT. Anticipated Results: Implementing CBT sessions will affect depression. Conclusion: CBT may affect depression. Key words: Depression, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

Background and Significance: Adolescent depressive symptoms are associated with impaired school functioning, strained relationships, and increased suicide risk. Community-based outpatient clinics often lack structured group programming that targets emotion regulation and coping in a developmentally appropriate format. PICOT Question: In adolescents with depressive symptoms, how does dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), compared with current practice, affect depressive symptoms over 8–12 weeks? Implementation Plan: This evidence-based practice initiative will pilot an 8–12-week DBT-focused adolescent group (DBT-A) as an adjunct to usual care for adolescents ages 12–17 with depressive symptoms. The group will meet weekly for 60–90 minutes and be led by two trained co-facilitators using standardized referral, enrollment, and outcome-monitoring procedures. A pre-post test will be conducted. Anticipated Results: Adolescents participating in the DBT-A are expected to demonstrate reduced depressive symptom severity from pre- to post-intervention, improved emotion regulation and coping skills, and greater engagement in treatment, with acceptable feasibility reflected by referral volume, attendance, and completion rates. Conclusion: If the pilot demonstrates clinically meaningful improvement in depressive symptoms, the DBT-A group could be integrated as an outpatient service for adolescents, with ongoing measurements to support sustainability and quality improvement. Keywords: adolescents, depression, depressive symptoms, dialectical behavior therapy, DBT, outpatient mental health, group therapy, evidence-based practice

Background and Significance: Workplace violence and aggressive patient behavior are ongoing safety concerns in emergency departments, placing staff at risk for physical injury, psychological distress, burnout, and reduced job satisfaction. PICOT Question: In emergency department staff, how does simulation-based de-escalation training, compared to current practice, affect the management of aggressive patients? Implementation Place: The proposed initiative involves implementing a structured simulation-based de-escalation training program guided by the Iowa Model Revised: Evidence-Based Practice to Promote Excellence in Health Care. Outcome evaluation will include both process and clinical measures. Staff preparedness will be measured using the Confidence in Coping with Patient Aggression (CCPA) scale, and data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics. Anticipated Results: Implementation of simulation-based de-escalation training is expected to improve staff confidence, communication, and early recognition of escalating behaviors while reducing reliance on restrictive interventions. Conclusion: Implications for practice include improved staff safety, enhanced patient care, and increased consistency in managing behavioral emergencies. Findings from this initiative may support broader adoption of simulation-based de-escalation training across high-risk clinical settings to strengthen workplace safety and quality of care. Keywords: emergency department, workplace violence, de-escalation training, simulation-based training, patient aggression.

Nicotine use is a significant public health concern, especially among young adults, due to its addictive properties and associations with mental health concerns. Despite widespread access to information, misinformation about nicotine persists. The purpose of this project was to evaluate the impact of nicotine awareness on knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral intentions among college students while promoting health and community impact. A structured literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed journal articles, health reports, and psychological research studies. Sources were evaluated for relevance and reliability, with emphasis on addiction, cognitive & emotional outcomes, and health implications. Research shows that nicotine alters brain chemistry, increases dependence risk, and is associated with higher levels of anxiety and sleep disturbances. Literature also suggests that many young adults underestimate the health risk of nicotine products such as vaping. These findings demonstrate how important it is to spread awareness about the use and misuse of nicotine. Educating young adults through a health science and psychology perspective can contribute to a healthier and more compassionate community.

La representación de la fantasía en el cine hispano ha sido ampliamente reconocida como una herramienta narrativa; sin embargo, pocos estudios han examinado la necesidad psicológica de la fantasía como mecanismo de supervivencia en el contexto específico de la Guerra Civil Española. Este póster examina la intersección de la psicología infantil y la narrativa cinematográfica de El laberinto del fauno de Guillermo del Toro. Utilizando una metodología de Aprendizaje Basado en Problemas (ABP), esta investigación analiza cómo la protagonista, Ofelia, utiliza un mundo mitológico para procesar el autoritarismo y la violencia del régimen franquista. El estudio identifica que la fantasía no funciona como un simple "escapismo", sino como un marco cognitivo que permite a una niña mantener su agencia moral en un entorno represivo. Los hallazgos sugieren que Del Toro utiliza la "función primordial" de la fantasía para sostener que la imaginación interna es el único espacio en el que el fascismo no puede ejercer un control total. Estas implicaciones destacan la importancia de la terapia narrativa y el procesamiento simbólico para comprender el trauma histórico.

The Franciscan principle of Peacemaking- promoting peace and non-violence, encouraging open dialogue, accepting differences, and resolving conflicts through respectful listening. These important moral counterpoints are what Cable News Network (CNN) has described the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) as “one of the five most dangerous criminal organizations in the world”. Supplying the USA with fentanyl, synthetic opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamines. CJNG formed around 2010-2011, splintering from the Milenio Cartel. This structure enables the CJNG to operate as a franchise, extending its reach to 27 of 32 Mexican states and building a global network. It is estimated that the CJNG has generated at least $10 million US dollars annually from fentanyl, synthetic opioids, cocaine, and methamphetamines. This number does not include the money made from the diverse activities such as money laundering, fuel theft, and sexual exploitation. To combat the CJNG, the U.S. government has designated it as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). FTO engages in any terrorism activity that threatens national security.

This project looks at La Nueva Familia Michoacana and how it affects places through things like drug trafficking and extortion, plus all the violence that comes with it. Families end up living in fear all the time because of that, and it really cuts down on kids' chances of growing up there. The cartel sticks mostly to central parts of Mexico, like in Michoacán, Guerrero, and Estado de México, where everything feels unstable due to the crime going on. Approaching this through Franciscan ideas about peace and justice makes sense, focusing on respecting people and working together in communities without turning to more fighting. It seems the main issue hits young people hard, since they might get pulled into the cartel without better options. The idea is the Community Prevention and Economic Opportunity Program, which provides education, mentors, and jobs to kids who could be at risk. Strengthening schools and helping local businesses could boost the area. That could cut back on the cartels' hold somehow. Not sure if it will fix everything right away, but it aims to create safer spots for families and better chances down the line, even if the violence has been around so long.

Community psychology distinguishes itself not through specific theories, but through the intentional creation of settings that enable new forms of social action. Following Seymour Sarason’s (1972) thesis that fields advance through durable organizational arrangements, this presentation examines the history of psychological settings—from Lightner Witmer’s first clinic to contemporary research hubs. Using the Center for Community Research (CCR) at DePaul University as a primary case study, I illustrate how a research setting functions as a "training laboratory" for future social scientists. The CCR model operates through three core pillars: a systems-based philosophy, distributed leadership, and independent project development. Drawing on my experiences as a volunteer and graduate student, I detail the transition from foundational tasks—such as cold-calling participants and practicing clinical empathy—to managing volunteer teams and fostering self-directed inquiry. This setting-oriented approach transforms training from a hierarchical transmission of knowledge into a participatory, democratic practice where responsibility is shared and students "own" their scholarly products. By involving trainees in the daily governance and operational infrastructure of the Center, the CCR reproduces the field of community psychology by cultivating researchers capable of building similar settings elsewhere. Ultimately, this presentation argues that the training of community psychologists must occur within environments that embody the democratic and ecological values they seek to promote in the broader community. Keywords: Community Psychology, Creation of Settings, Distributed Leadership, Democratic Practice, Professional Development, Systems Theory, Mentorship

Community psychology distinguishes itself not through specific theories, but through the intentional creation of settings that enable new forms of social action. Following Seymour Sarason’s (1972) thesis that fields advance through durable organizational arrangements, this presentation examines the history of psychological settings—from Lightner Witmer’s first clinic to contemporary research hubs. Using the Center for Community Research (CCR) at DePaul University as a primary case study, I illustrate how a research setting functions as a "training laboratory" for future social scientists. The CCR model operates through three core pillars: a systems-based philosophy, distributed leadership, and independent project development. Drawing on my experiences as a volunteer and graduate student, I detail the transition from foundational tasks—such as cold-calling participants and practicing clinical empathy—to managing volunteer teams and fostering self-directed inquiry. This setting-oriented approach transforms training from a hierarchical transmission of knowledge into a participatory, democratic practice where responsibility is shared and students "own" their scholarly products. By involving trainees in the daily governance and operational infrastructure of the Center, the CCR reproduces the field of community psychology by cultivating researchers capable of building similar settings elsewhere. Ultimately, this presentation argues that the training of community psychologists must occur within environments that embody the democratic and ecological values they seek to promote in the broader community. Keywords: Community Psychology, Creation of Settings, Distributed Leadership, Democratic Practice, Professional Development, Systems Theory, Mentorship

Student-athletes often rely on athletic training services for injury management, performance maintenance, and support for their overall physical well-being. However, due to barriers such as limited staffing, scheduling conflicts, and inconsistent access to care may affect satisfaction and use of services. The present study will examine Briar Cliff University for student athletes’ perceptions on quality of care, accessibility to services, and perceived barriers to those services. A cross-sectional survey design will be utilized to collect qualitative and quantitative data on approximately 15-30 collegiate athletes. The participants will complete an anonymous online survey that will assess perceived accessibility and perceived quality of care to understand commonalty on strengths and barriers. The quantitative items will be measured using the Liker-scale response format, and the qualitative will be analyzed thematically. The results are expected to highlight the strengths and improvements related to availability, scheduling, communication, consistency of care, and satisfaction with services. Finding from this study can offer valuable insight into meeting the needs of student athletes, supporting injury rehabilitation, and improvement will the overall satisfaction within similar populations. Keywords: Athletic training services, student-athlete's perceptions, quality of care

This experimental study investigates the efficacy of two prevalent learning techniques, massed practice (cramming) and distributed practice (spaced studying), to determine their respective impacts on short-term memory recall. While students frequently utilize cramming for its perceived efficiency, cognitive psychological theory suggests that the "spacing effect" provides a more robust framework for information retention. Using an experimental design, participants were divided into two conditions: a cramming group and a spaced-studying group. Both groups were exposed to an identical list of target words, with the cramming group viewing each word once for two seconds and the spaced group viewing each word three times for five seconds across intervals. To assess the potential influence of external temporal variables, the procedure was replicated on two different days (Monday and Friday) with unique participant sets. Following the study phase, participants engaged in a brief distractor task to prevent immediate rehearsal before undergoing a free-recall test. All participant data remained anonymous and was recorded using numerical identifiers. The primary objective is to evaluate whether the frequency and distribution of exposure significantly improve word recall. It is hypothesized that the spaced-studying group will demonstrate superior recall performance compared to the cramming group, reinforcing the value of distributed practice in academic settings. The findings aim to provide empirical support for more effective study habits over traditional last-minute review methods. Keywords: Spaced learning, Cramming, Memory recall, Cognitive psychology, Distributed practice, Retention, Experimental design

Esta investigación trata sobre cómo el latín vulgar se fue transformando poco a poco en español en la Península Ibérica y por qué este proceso es importante para entender la civilización española. Es un tema relevante porque el idioma es una parte fundamental de la identidad de un pueblo. Después de la caída del Imperio romano, el latín empezó a cambiar en cada región debido a la falta de unidad política, a las invasiones de los pueblos germánicos y a la influencia musulmana en Al-Ándalus. Para esta investigación consultamos libros de historia, artículos académicos y documentos antiguos que muestran los cambios del latín al romance. El objetivo fue analizar qué factores históricos y sociales influyeron en la evolución del idioma. Se descubrió que el español no surgió de repente, sino que fue el resultado de muchos siglos de cambios y mezclas culturales. Este trabajo es importante porque ayuda a entender cómo se formó la identidad de España y cómo su lengua llegó a convertirse en una de las más habladas del mundo.

This research studies Los Zetas and their impact on communities in Mexico and the United States. The group formed from former Mexican soldiers and used military tactics. They increased violence, kidnapping, and extortion, with reports linking them to mass killings and control of local economies. We will examine how poverty, weak institutions, and drug demand support cartel growth. We will study how media like Narcos portray cartel life and compare these portrayals with real events. We will apply the Franciscan value of building a caring community by focusing on actions that strengthen relationships and support systems. We will look at ways communities rebuild trust through local programs, victim support, and stronger connections between residents and authorities. We will focus on practical steps such as youth outreach, access to counseling, job opportunities, and community partnerships. This research shows how violence damages trust and how strong, connected communities improve safety over time.

El cristianismo ejerció una gran influencia a lo largo de la história de Hispania. Los celtas, una civilización pasada, eran paganos y, con el tiempo, pasaron a la religión cristiana. Los romanos influyeron en los celtas a través del comercio. Los romanos también fueron grandes promotores de la difusión del cristianismo. Después de los romanos, los visigodos se convirtieron en los nuevos promotores del cristianismo en Hispania. Los visigodos eran arianos, pero durante el gobierno de Recaredo se convirtieron al catolicismo. Después, los musulmanes conquistaron los territorios visigodos con mucha fuerza y permitieron que los católicos practicaran su religión.

Dependence on depressants is a major issue that affects society worldwide. Depressants impact public health, safety, and economic productivity. The consequences are far-reaching, encompassing rising crime rates, health care burdens, and social instability, and require a multifaceted approach to address them effectively. This poster investigates the impact of abuse of depressants and alcohol from the perspective of criminal justice, business, and graphic design, exploring how Franciscan values of peace, justice, and human dignity can improve awareness and intervention. Through an analysis of ten peer-reviewed academic sources on alcohol abuse, the reliance on depressants, and the impact on Latin American youth. This research strives to find long-term solutions to help community stability. The research shows that reducing depressant drug trafficking works best through a mix of law enforcement, prevention, and education. Strategies such as targeting supply chains, raising awareness, and disrupting profits help reduce both demand and distribution. Overall, a combined approach is more effective in the long term. These findings demonstrate that integrating Franciscan values in rehabilitation practices can lead to more effective, long-term community stability and reduce drug-related extremes.

This project describes a clinical experience with an 11-year-old female patient who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being hit by a car while riding her bicycle. The patient had a previous history of craniotomy, which increased the risk for complications. She arrived in the emergency department with symptoms of head injury, and imaging showed bleeding with increased intracranial pressure. Due to the severity of her condition, she was transferred to Mayo Clinic in Rochester for specialized neurological care. This experience is examined using Roy’s Adaptation Model to understand how both the patient and her family responded to a sudden health crisis. The situation caused significant emotional stress for the family, especially when only one parent could travel during the transfer. Holistic nursing care included physical stabilization, emotional support, and clear communication with the family. A creative art project was developed to represent the impact of trauma on the patient and family using the image of a cracked bicycle helmet held together by hands, symbolizing support and healing. This experience influenced my understanding of the importance of combining the science of nursing with compassion, communication, and family-centered care in order to promote adaptation during stressful situations.

Abstract A patient inspired this piece of work through a patient to nurse interaction that helped to influence my nursing career. A patient’s story about the car he had been driving when the accident occurred and how it connected to his family inspired nursing compassion. Following Nurse Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring, the artwork reflects the nurse-to-patient relationship as a space of deep connection, empathy, and authentic presence in one’s life. The patient had been in an accident that rolled the vehicle, resulting in a broken femur, shoulder, and rib. The femur and shoulder required surgical repair, and the patient was then unable to perform activities of daily living. The patient was very withdrawn from care dealing with the psychological distress that followed. This required a strong nurse to patient relationship to motivate the patient in their care plan. The red truck, as described by the patient, becomes more than an object and serves as a symbolic vessel for memory, identity, family, and emotional connection. As an early nursing experience, this helped to drive my passion through some of the hardships that nursing school brought. Through careful attention to the details explained by the patient, this drawing embodies the moment where a nurse was able to embody what the patient loved and use it to drive their recovery with compassion. In that moment, the truck carried more than a story; it carried the human connection that transformed care into compassion.

This project explores the integration of the art and science of nursing through a clinical experience involving a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) infant and parent interaction. The patient was a late preterm infant born at 34 2/6 weeks via cesarean section as part of a dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy complicated by preterm labor and multiple prenatal concerns. The infant required admission for prematurity, respiratory failure, and respiratory distress syndrome and was later diagnosed with Noonan syndrome with associated dysphagia. During hospitalization, the infant experienced ongoing feeding difficulties, requiring careful coordination of care and plans for gastrostomy tube placement. The mother demonstrated significant anxiety related to discharge and attempted to accelerate feeding progression, highlighting challenges with adherence and coping. Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring provides a framework for addressing both the physiological and emotional needs of the patient and family. This project examines the impact of illness on the infant and family, including stress, family dynamics, and caregiver role strain. A creative split canvas is used to represent the contrast between forced control and developmental readiness. This experience reinforced the importance of empathy, communication, and holistic, family-centered nursing care.

Abstract This presentation examines a clinical experience involving a vulnerable adolescent postpartum patient and the holistic impact of illness on both the patient and her family. The patient, a 16-year-old Spanish-speaking immigrant with limited education, experienced significant psychosocial stressors, including fear of losing custody of her newborn, an unstable living environment, and language barriers. Nursing care was guided by Jean Watson, emphasizing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and patient-centered care. Key nursing diagnoses included anxiety, risk for impaired parenting, and risk for postpartum depression. Interventions focused on emotional support, consistent use of interpreter services, and developmentally appropriate patient education. As part of the creative component, an original poem titled “Between the Words” was developed to represent the patient’s experience of feeling unheard and isolated while navigating motherhood. The poem highlights themes of communication barriers, vulnerability, and the nurse’s therapeutic presence. This project demonstrates the importance of holistic nursing care, advocacy, and reflective practice in supporting complex patient needs and guiding future professional nursing practices.

Background and Significance: Worldwide, 1.4 billion adults have been diagnosed with hypertension, and treatment of hypertension, at any stage, is crucial in preventing serious medical conditions and emergencies such as heart attacks, heart failure, and kidney disease. PICOT Question: In adults with hypertension, how does the DASH diet, compared to current practice, affect blood pressure? Implementation Plan: The DASH diet will be implemented over six weeks in an outpatient family medicine clinic. The participants will keep track of their daily blood pressure and a daily food log to identify compliance correlated to blood pressure. Pre- and post-initiative surveys will be completed by adult participants with hypertension to evaluate the effectiveness of the DASH diet. Anticipated Results: By following the DASH diet appropriately, adults with hypertension will see their systolic and diastolic blood pressures lower without the use of medication. Conclusion: The DASH diet may be considered the first step in managing adults with hypertension, rather than medications, due to its ease of access, lack of side effects, and positive impact on the body as a whole. Key words: hypertension, systolic, diastolic, lifestyle changes, dietary approaches to stop hypertension, adult

Background and Significance: Workplace violence in emergency departments (EDs) represents a persistent threat to staff safety, workforce stability, and patient care. Emergency clinicians are frequently exposed to verbal aggression, physical assault, and escalating behavioral crises, yet training approaches often lack standardization and competency validation. PICOT Question: In emergency department staff, how does de-escalation simulation training, compared to current practice, affect the management of aggressive patients? Implementation Plan: The proposed initiative includes scenario-based simulation training with facilitated debriefing and evaluation using pre- and post-intervention measures, including the Confidence in Coping with Patient Aggression Instrument (CCPAI). Anticipated Results: Integrating simulation-based de-escalation training into routine competency requirements may enhance staff preparedness, reduce injury risk, decrease reliance on restraints, and strengthen organizational safety culture. Conclusion: This initiative may demonstrate how a structured evidence-based approach can translate high-level evidence into sustainable clinical practice change in high-risk emergency care environments. Keywords: workplace violence, emergency department, simulation-based training, de-escalation, aggression management, evidence-based practice

Background and Significance: Chronic pain is a leading cause of disability and healthcare utilization. At Siouxland Community Health Center, providers noted increasing numbers of adults reporting persistent chronic pain despite pharmacological management, physical therapy referrals, and routine follow-up care. Many patients described ongoing functional impairment, sleep disruption, and reduced quality of life. Concerns also emerged regarding escalating opioid use without sustained improvement. These trends highlighted the need for evidence based nonpharmacological strategies that address the multidimensional nature of chronic pain. PICO Question: In patients, how does cognitive therapy compared to current practice affect chronic pain? Implementation Plan: Guided by the Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice, a 90-day pilot initiative for integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) into chronic pain management has been developed. Eligible adult patients will participate in ten weekly CBT sessions emphasizing pain education, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, pacing, and relaxation strategies. Pain severity will be measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale before and after the intervention. Interdisciplinary collaboration will support the implementation and evaluation. Anticipated Results: This initiative will demonstrate how an evidence based nonpharmacological approach may reduce chronic pain severity while supporting safer, integrated care delivery within community healthcare settings. Conclusion: This initiative suggests CBT may reduce chronic pain severity and improve function. It provides an evidence based alternative to reliance on opioids. Successful outcomes could support broader use of nonpharmacological, interdisciplinary care in community settings. Key Words: Cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT, chronic pain, persistent pain, long-term pain

Background and Significance: Chronic pain is a prevalent and persistent concern within behavioral health settings, contributing to functional impairment, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare utilization. Patients frequently rely on passive or biomedical approaches that offer limited long-term benefits, while evidence supports cognitive behavioral strategies as effective, sustainable methods for improving pain coping and daily functioning. At UnityPoint Health Berryhill Center, staff identified inconsistent use of structured, evidence-based pain management approaches, highlighting an opportunity to strengthen patient outcomes and standardize care. PICO Question: In patients, how does cognitive behavioral therapy, compared to current practice, affect chronic pain? Implementation Plan: The initiative included a brief, structured cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based chronic pain protocol embedded directly into routine outpatient behavioral health visits, supported by clinician education on CBT principles and pain mechanisms, standardized patient materials to ensure consistent delivery, and integration of core CBT strategies such as cognitive reframing and relaxation training. Patients participated in short, skills-focused sessions that emphasized practical application and individualized goal setting. Anticipated Results: The outcomes may demonstrate that CBT is an effective treatment modality for chronic pain. Conclusion: The anticipated findings may support the rationale for adopting a structured CBT-based approach as a targeted practice change. Key Words: chronic pain, persistent pain, incurable pain, constant pain, pain interference, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT),

Español para los negocios y las profesiones The United States Hispanic population in 2024 is 68 million and is growing at a 2% per year. Many Spanish-speaking clients face language barriers when seeking financial assistance. This poster investigates how understanding Hispanic consumer culture and communicating in Spanish will give me a competitive advantage in marketing to the growing U.S Latino market. Using an analysis of 10 academic sources, our research showed that the competitive advantage of being bilingual lies in the business field. The research showed that you would have a larger client base and could conduct cross-border transactions. You will be able to build more trust and create better relationships. These findings are important because they show that speaking Spanish helps connect better with Hispanic clients. This can give a strong advantage in a growing market. It can also lead to more business opportunities and greater marketing success.

Al-Ándalus constituye uno de los periodos más influyentes en la historia cultural de España. Durante esta etapa, se llevaron a cabo intercambios culturales que transformaron profundamente la sociedad peninsular. Este estudio examina cómo los musulmanes de Al-Ándalus influyeron en la arquitectura, la lengua y la organización social, y analiza la permanencia de ese legado en la España actual. La investigación se centra en el análisis crítico de fuentes secundarias sobre la historia y la cultura medievales. El análisis revela una influencia significativa en el diseño arquitectónico, el vocabulario del español y el desarrollo urbano. Estos elementos demuestran que la herencia andalusí no pertenece únicamente al pasado, sino que sigue formando parte de la realidad cultural contemporánea. En consecuencia, el legado de Al-Ándalus debe entenderse como un componente fundamental en la construcción histórica y cultural de España.

The Sinaloa Cartel is one of the most powerful transnational criminal organizations, responsible for trafficking large quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine into the United States. Operating primarily from northwestern Mexico, the cartel has expanded into a global network with decentralized cells that allow it to continue functioning despite the arrests of major leaders. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sinaloa Cartel is a primary driver of the synthetic opioid crisis, which has contributed to over 70,000 overdose deaths annually in the United States. This study examines the cartel’s origins, structure, and operations, as well as the social and public health consequences of its drug trafficking activities. Research shows that enforcement strategies alone have failed to eliminate cartel influence, often leading to fragmentation and continued violence. Grounded in the Franciscan value of Peacemaking, this project proposes community-based prevention programs, economic development initiatives, and cross-border dialogue to address the root causes of cartel recruitment and drug demand. By focusing on long-term solutions rather than solely punitive measures, this approach aims to reduce violence, strengthen communities, and promote sustainable peace.

This project examines the Gulf Cartel (Cartel del Golfo) and its role in drug trafficking and violence along the U.S.–Mexico border. The primary issue investigated is how cartel activity contributes to regional instability, economic disruption, and public safety concerns. The study focuses on northeastern Mexico, particularly Tamaulipas, from the early 2000s to the present, a period marked by escalating violence; for example, Mexico recorded over 30,000 homicides annually in recent years, many linked to organized crime. Grounded in the Franciscan value of respect for human dignity, this project emphasizes solutions that prioritize the well-being of affected communities. The proposed solution is a community-based intervention strategy that combines increased access to education, job opportunities, and local violence prevention programs, alongside binational cooperation between the United States and Mexico to reduce trafficking networks. This approach aims to address root causes rather than relying solely on enforcement. This research matters because it highlights sustainable, humane strategies that can reduce violence, improve economic stability, and benefit vulnerable populations on both sides of the border

This study aims to determine the effects that presenting a broader option range will have on different individuals. The latency and satisfaction with choice will be measured to observe the paradox of choice. The study takes place at Briar Cliff University, where Behavior Analysis and Psychology majors will be presented with the option of three or seven elective psychology courses. A between-subjects group design experiment consisting of a control group of 10 participants and an experimental group of 10 participants will proceed through different phases of the experiment. The control group will be given a survey of three different behavior analysis and psychology classes to choose from. In comparison, the experiment group will be offered seven elective courses. The time it takes a college student to reach a final decision will be measured to determine if choice overload affects decision-making. Follow-up questions in the survey will be given to both groups regarding the students' overall satisfaction with their elected course. This research will be used to predict the effects of choice variety. It is expected that participants presented with seven elective courses will take longer to reach a final decision and be less satisfied with their selection. If the study concludes with those results, it proves the paradox of choice: having too many options can become overwhelming, and an individual will struggle to make a final decision. Keywords: The Paradox of Choice, Satisfaction, Latency

Stress and anxiety are critical psychological factors influencing athletic performance, yet limited research has examined their role in high-contact and combative sports. Guided by the Inverted-U Hypothesis and Catastrophe Theory, this study distinguishes between cognitive anxiety, which can impair focus and decision-making, and somatic anxiety, which may enhance performance up to a point of diminishing returns. The purpose of this study was to compare perceived stress, anxiety, and performance between collegiate wrestlers and football linemen. A total of 19 male athletes were recruited from a private Catholic university, including 15 collegiate wrestlers and 4 football linemen. Due to the substantial imbalance in group sizes, analyses focused primarily on descriptive statistics rather than inferential comparisons. Overall, athletes reported moderate levels of both cognitive and somatic anxiety, with somatic indicators such as elevated heart rate and muscle tension more pronounced than cognitive worry. Self-confidence scores were consistently high across both groups, and performance-related ratings (e.g., decision-making, focus, effort) were also strong, suggesting that athletes maintained effective performance behaviors despite experiencing moderate anxiety. These findings provide preliminary support for the idea that somatic arousal at moderate levels may facilitate performance, and that high self-confidence may buffer the potentially negative effects of cognitive anxiety. The results also suggest a positive association between competitive confidence and mental preparation skills among athletes in high-contact sports, while highlighting the need for future research with larger and more balanced samples. Keywords: Combative Sport, Stress, Anxiety, Catastrophe Theory, Inverted-U Hypothesis

Serious athletic injuries can significantly disrupt multiple domains of a student-athletes day to day life, this includes things such as overall mood, emotional state, and academic motivation, and performance. The purpose of this study is to examine how sustaining a serious injury influences academic outcomes such as grade point average (GPA, rate of class attendance, and also overall motivation towards one's academics. The primary research question asks: How does a serious injury affect academic performance in collegiate student athletes as compared to their pre-injury baseline. It is hypothesized that injured athletes will experience a temporary decline in academic performance due to things such as psychological stress, reduced motivation, reduced engagement towards academic responsibilities, as well as possible physical limitations (such as being unable to attend). This study will use a quantitative, within-subjects design, comparing academic performance indicators, before and after injury. Participants will include collegiate student-athletes that have sustained a medically documented injury that resulted in at least two weeks of athletic participation. Data will be collected via self reported surveys assessing motivation, emotional well being, stress levels, and academic success. Statistical analysis will examine changes in GPA, and attendance, as well as self-reported “levels of academic importance”. Findings in this study may provide insight into the academic challenges faced by injured athletes to better utilize support strategies to improve academic outcomes during said athletes recovery. Keywords: Student-Athletes, Injury, Academic Performance, GPA, Motivation

The purpose of this research is to determine the effects of changes to a schedule of activities in 1-on-1 teaching sessions. The effects that were measured in this study were overall academic performance, as well as student motivation and confidence. This study is an advance on previous research which has looked at the effect of schedule changes, but there is limited research on neurotypical, college-aged individuals. 18 college-aged participants, recruited from a Midwest university, were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Sessions took place in a university classroom, with the participants sat across a table from the experimenter. Participants were shown a schedule of activities for the session, including a math problem worksheet, a reading comprehension worksheet, and a science questions worksheet. All worksheets were aimed at 10th grade student level in the USA. Participants randomly assigned to the unchanged schedule group followed this schedule in the exact order. Participants randomly assigned to the changed schedule group were told there had been a sudden change to the schedule, and then were given the worksheets in reverse order. After completing the academic worksheets, participants were given a survey that asked them about their confidence and motivation throughout the session. Participants in the unchanged group were asked if knowing the schedule was helpful, and those in the changed groups were asked if the sudden change of schedule affected their motivation. All participants signed informed consent forms and were debriefed on the true purpose of the study after the session had concluded.

El impacto de la comida latinoamericana en Siouxland está históricamente vinculado a la migración latina hacia la región y a la manera en que estas comunidades han utilizado la comida para preservar su identidad mientras se integraban a la vida local. El propósito de esta investigación fue indagar cómo los restaurantes latinoamericanos, las cocinas familiares y los festivales gastronómicos en ciudades como Sioux City y South Sioux City han moldeado la cultura local y las relaciones comunitarias. Para explorar este tema, la investigación se basó en proyectos locales de historia oral latina, charlas públicas sobre la historia latina en Sioux City, reportajes noticiosos y videográficos acerca de eventos culturales hispanos tales como «Celebrando Siouxland así como en estudios más amplios sobre la gastronomía latinoamericana que explican cómo la comida expresa la historia, la migración y las tradiciones familiares. Estas fuentes fueron analizadas con el fin de identificar temas recurrentes: cuándo y por qué llegaron las familias latinas, cómo se desarrollaron los restaurantes y los negocios de comida, y de qué manera los residentes no latinos entraron en contacto con la cultura latina a través del acto de comer y celebrar juntos. La comida latinoamericana en Siouxland es mucho más que tacos o arroz con frijoles; se ha convertido en un símbolo público de la presencia, el orgullo y el espíritu emprendedor de la comunidad latina en el noroeste de Iowa.

La representación de la inocencia y la guerra en la película El Laberinto del Fauno se manifiesta de múltiples formas. La inocencia se define como un estado del alma libre de culpa (Real Academia Española). Sin embargo, algunos estudios han mostrado que la inocencia se mantiene en los niños durante los tiempos de guerra. Usamos estudios acerca de criar a hijos en tiempos de guerra, y también hablamos acerca de por qué los niños pueden guardar la inocencia mejor que los adultos. También hay varios análisis sobre películas que tratan sobre la guerra. Este póster examina la intersección entre la inocencia y la guerra, en particular cómo se representa visualmente la inocencia en las películas. Mediante una metodología de aprendizaje basada en problemas, este estudio investiga la película El Laberinto del Fauno y otras de género de ficción. Además, usamos películas realistas e históricas que representan la inocencia en contextos históricos.

Trafficking is the primary source of American drug abuse. Without that dynamic, our availability for drugs like fentanyl and cocaine would be greatly reduced. It's also noted that, if that dynamic continues to persist, we will continue losing more Americans to overdose and homelessness. Our poster investigates how accounting can be used to nonviolently aid in exposing and disrupting these activities. Our role in this process is more hands-off, so we want minimal conflict and minimal indirect involvement. We will consult sources from Google Scholar and databases provided by the Briar Cliff Library, as well as testimonial accounts from individuals involved in similar operations. Accountants can play a vital role in combating drug trafficking with their knowledge of cash flow and their ability to identify suspicious financial activities. Cartels can’t simply spend every penny received from their illicit trade; that money must be laundered. It’s also been noted that criminal entities are sometimes much easier to convict on financial charges than on the activities that drive the finances. By making the act of making money in and of itself as difficult as possible, we can dissuade the expansion and continuation of these illicit activities. We may even be able to secure convictions for illegal financial activity, even if not in combination with all their other crimes.

The active and increasing accessibility, along with the world slowly normalizing the use of cannabis, has raised many concerns about its effects on children and young teenagers in both Western and Latino communities. This project examines how the use of cannabis in people aged 0-18 impacts their daily life, educational performance, and mental health. Because the brain of an adolescent is developing, drug use during such critical times can influence the way they learn, behave, and their overall health. Grounded in the Franciscan value of peacemaking, this project focuses on compassion and understanding, along with education and support rather than punishment, with the hope of promoting a healthier school environment and supporting the positive development of young people.

Abstract This presentation explores a patient and their family in transitioning to comfort / end-of-life care. This patient presented with a lung cavitary lesion and cachexia with a previously established do not resuscitate order. Testing revealed that the lesion was not caused by infection. Nursing care priorities began shifting towards the patient’s wishes of minimal intervention. Due to the complex dynamics of family involvement, prior history, and patient factors, The Neuman Systems Theory is utilized because this scenario is an ideal example that patient care often reflects other systems interacting within and outside of the patient. It also explains how sometimes nursing care expands to the family system. The science of nursing theory is blended with a fiber arts piece to illustrate a symbol of what the client and the family may have experienced during this time. A holistic, whole-person whole-system approach to nursing care, and the impact on the family is cemented with scientific resources and visualized with the arts.

Abstract This presentation examines a high-risk maternal and fetal case in a labor and delivery setting, highlighting the integration of clinical care, psychosocial support, and professional reflection. Suspected Turner syndrome and rapid deterioration required an emergency cesarean section, resulting in neonatal respiratory failure and NICU admission. Guided by Jean Watson’s Theory of Human Caring the project emphasizes holistic, patient-centered nursing care. Priorities included recognizing fetal distress, initiating intrauterine resuscitation, preparing for emergent surgery, and providing continuous emotional support, with strong interdisciplinary collaboration. The presentation also explores the psychosocial and spiritual impact of complications, including anxiety, grief, and loss of the expected birth experience, supported by evidence-based, trauma-informed care practices. A creative art component connects this science, visually representing the emotional journey from pregnancy to infancy: one black-and-white side reflects fear, loss, and heartache, while the color side conveys resilience, hope, love, and joy.

For this research project, we chose to examine the Medellín cartel and its impact on the world during its operation. This cartel was active from the 1980s to the early 1990s. It was stationed within Medellin, Colombia, where it essentially had its entire country in a vice due to both its large control over its economy, as well as its violent tactics that earned its designation as a narco-terrorist group. They directly opposed the government and were responsible for the assassinations of senators, the bombing of Avianca Flight 203, and the attack on the DAS building. A lot of this violence was perpetuated by corrupted youth who were exploited to join the cartel. We believe that viewing peacemaking and non-violence through a Franciscan perspective could offer insights into approaches to preventing the spread of such violence within communities and among youth. Our idea was to implement community-based peace coalitions made up of churches, schools, and neighborhood leaders. A flimsy sense of belonging to a community pushes people to seek opportunities through criminal means. By having pillars of a surrounding area advocate for safe zones and public dialogue about gang activity, people will feel like their struggles are seen. It gives them a safety net to rely on and feel protected. It is important to foster solidarity within a group so that people will raise their moral standards.

Understanding Hispanic culture and health beliefs is essential for fair and ethical practice in healthcare and criminal justice professions. Hispanic individuals make up nearly 19% of the U.S. population, and more than 40 million people in the United States speak Spanish at home, making it the second-most-spoken language in the country. Because millions of individuals have limited English proficiency, language barriers can lead to misunderstandings, unequal access to services, and poorer outcomes in both medical and legal settings. Improved communication between English-speaking providers and Spanish-speaking patients results in more accurate and timely diagnoses. This enables the development of appropriate treatment plans, which contribute to faster recovery and improved health outcomes. Ultimately, this process enhances patient satisfaction while reducing overall healthcare costs. The goal is to help professionals communicate clearly, build trust, and ensure that patients and clients understand their rights, treatment plans, and legal processes. This study investigates how cultural misunderstandings and language barriers may contribute to disparities in healthcare access, treatment adherence, legal representation, and justice outcomes (equal application of the law). Additionally, the research analyzes how learning Spanish and developing cultural awareness can reduce bias, improve professional interactions, and promote equity within both systems.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major, modifiable cardiovascular risk, affecting nearly half of United States adults. Among adults 18 and older, an estimated 119.9 million have hypertension: 92.9 million remain uncontrolled, while 27.0 million manage their condition. In recent decades, office blood pressure (BP) measurements alone have proven insufficient. Out-of-office BP readings obtained via ambulatory or home monitoring are necessary for accurate assessment. This initiative targets primary care adults with uncontrolled high BP at an Atlanta clinic, aiming to promote self-measured blood pressure (SMBP) monitoring. Without self-monitoring, BP management suffers. PICOT QUESTION: “In adult patients with uncontrolled blood pressure, how does self-measured blood pressure monitoring, compared to current practice, affect control within 90 days”? METHODS: Participants measured pre-test BP at the clinic and received a validated home BP monitor. The initiative director educated participants and medical assistants on accurate home BP measurement using validated materials, emphasizing proper SMBP and proper use of an upper-arm cuff. The team conducted virtual follow-ups. Descriptive statistics compared pre- and post-intervention readings. RESULTS: After intervention, 87% achieved BP control with SMBP; all had reduced BP, underscoring SMBP's importance for better BP management. CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate that SMBP monitoring effectively improves BP control among adults with uncontrolled hypertension. Therefore, broader adoption of SMBP monitoring in clinical practice is recommended, as it offers clear benefits for improving blood pressure control outcomes.

Variability in communications during emergency department (ED) telepsychiatry consultations can create significant patient safety risks, particularly for patients in suicidal crisis. Coordination between bedside and remote teams increases the complexity of communication and contributes to information transfer gaps, role ambiguity, and workflow inefficiencies. Current literature indicates a lack of standardized communication tools tailored to telepsychiatry, underscoring the need for structured, evidence-based approaches to support safe, consistent care. The purpose of this evidence-based project was to implement a standardized handover process for telepsychiatry using the PSYCH mnemonic and evaluate the impact on nurse (RN) satisfaction. To standardize the communication process and bolster competencies through Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM) education, an analysis of RN satisfaction with telehealth RNs (n=11) was conducted using a pre-post survey design and a modified version of the Handover Evaluation Scale (HES), with Likert-scale responses. Outcomes focused on quality of information, interaction and support, and efficiency. Descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used to assess domain changes over time. Results demonstrated improved overall satisfaction, enhanced information quality, positive trends in efficiency, and stable results in interaction and support. Reinforcing current literature consensus, findings support the use of structured communication and targeted training to enhance clarity, reduce variability, and strengthen staff confidence. This project aligns with DNP essentials by translating evidence into practice, improving the quality and safety of care, and supporting system change in complex healthcare environments. Keywords: telepsychiatry, emergency department, PSYCH Mnemonic, handover communication, nurse satisfaction

Forty-seven million women globally enter the menopause transition every year, and this transition has been associated with a 4-13 times increased risk of depression. Despite the number of women entering this transition and the known risk of depression, midlife women are rarely screened for depression during routine clinic visits. Rural women are at even greater risk of depression due to pre-existing depression, greater symptom burden, socioeconomic disadvantages, and lack of access to healthcare. This evidence-based initiative was guided by the Iowa Model Revised and addressed the PICOT question: In women aged 40-60 receiving care at a primary care clinic, how did screening, early recognition, and menopause education, compared with standard care, affect depressive symptoms and menopause-related quality of life? A multimodal intervention was implemented at a rural clinic in Minnesota, including patient and provider education and the embedding of the Menopause Rating Scale and best-practice alerts in the EHR. Six women and four providers completed the educational content and pre- and post-surveys. All measured outcomes showed significant improvement. Findings support effectiveness, sustainability, and a strong return on investment for this evidence-based initiative in screening for and managing menopause-related depression and symptoms. This initiative emphasizes the importance of addressing gaps in menopause knowledge, training, and depression screening in rural women. Keywords: menopause, depression, rural women, screening, education

El impacto del idioma español ha cultivado una sociedad naturalmente más cohesiva aquí en Siouxland. Nuestro grupo analizó este impacto a través de nuestras especialidades: enfermería, educación y psicología. En enfermería, una comunicación clara puede ser la diferencia entre un diagnóstico correcto y un error médico. En educación, el acceso lingüístico garantiza que los padres puedan ser participantes activos en el éxito académico de sus hijos. En psicología, la confianza se construye a través del diálogo; ser capaz de expresar las luchas internas en la lengua materna es fundamental para el proceso de sanación.

Esta investigación examina la influencia de los hábitos sociales en la región de Siouxland. Esta investigación se centra en las costumbres y tradiciones de las comunidades anglo y latinas. Este proyecto examina cómo los hábitos sociales moldean las experiencias en familias latinas y anglo en Siouxland. Mediante un análisis de diez recursos académicos y una revisión de los hábitos sociales latinos, encontramos más sobre la diversidad entre culturas. Nuestros hallazgos revelan la importancia de que las personas aprendan más sobre las diferencias entre las culturas latina y americana. Descubrimos que un factor motivador de la cultura latina está relacionado con la religión: la mayoría de los latinos son cristianos, lo cual influye en diversos aspectos. Más factores que son muy importantes para la comunidad latina son la familia, la productividad, el tiempo, el individualismo y la privacidad, la igualdad, la iniciativa, la responsabilidad, y más. Todos estos factores tienen un efecto importante en los hábitos sociales y la cultura de la comunidad latina en Siouxland.

“Tú me quieres blanca”, poema de Alfonsina Storni, expone una fuerte crítica a la doble moral de la sociedad patriarcal. En el texto, la voz poética se dirige a un hombre que exige pureza, inocencia y castidad en la mujer, mientras él mismo ha llevado una vida de excesos ylibertinaje. A través de un tono irónico y confrontativo, la autora denuncia esta desigualdad, evidenciando la hipocresía masculina que impone normas estrictas a las mujeres sin aplicarlas a sí mismos. El poema utiliza imágenes de pureza asociadas al color blanco, la naturaleza y elementos como la espuma o los lirios, para representar el ideal femenino impuesto. Sin embargo, estas imágenes se contrastan con la figura del hombre, descrito como alguien que ha vivido entre placeres, vicios y experiencias que contradicen las exigencias que impone. En su desarrollo, la voz poética no solo critica, sino que también plantea una condición: el hombre debe purificarse, retirarse a la naturaleza y liberarse de sus excesos antes de exigir lo mismo a la mujer. Así, el poema se convierte en una reivindicación de igualdad moral y uncuestionamiento de las normas sociales injustas, consolidándose como una obra clave del feminismo literario hispanoamericano.

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a highly aggressive pediatric brainstem tumor that is unresectable, emphasizing the need for novel targeted therapeutic strategies. This proposal centers on the H3K27M mutation, a defining molecular alteration in DIPG, and explores the use of Trojan horse liposomes (THLs) as a vehicle for targeted microRNA (miRNA) delivery. The proposed THL system would encapsulate a therapeutic miRNA designed to suppress translation of proteins that promote tumor growth and survival. To enhance tumor specificity, the liposomes would be engineered to be pH-sensitive, remaining stable under physiological conditions while releasing their cargo within the acidic tumor microenvironment. Convection-enhanced delivery (CED) is the proposed administration strategy to bypass the blood-brain barrier and improve local distribution of the therapeutic directly within tumor tissue. By combining mutation-directed molecular therapy, pH-responsive release, and direct intratumoral delivery, this approach may provide a more precise and effective method for overcoming major treatment barriers in DIPG.

Background music is commonly used by students when studying or working on academic tasks. The research behind this theory remains inconsistent whether or not background music enhances or disrupts focus and learning. This study is examining how musical tempo influences reading retention accuracy in college students. This study is based on the theory of Arousal Mood Hypothesis and the Yerkes Dodson Law. Both of these theories suggest that cognitive performance is optimized at moderate arousal levels and may decline when stimulation is either too low or too high. Tempo is a primary driver of arousal levels, this study investigates whether slow tempo instrumental music, fast tempo instrumental music, or silence condition to see if there was a difference in retention during a reading task. This study had 18 participants that were randomly assigned to one of three between subjects’ conditions: a silent control condition, a slow BPM music condition, and a fasts BPM music group (n=6 per group). All participants read the same passage and completed a standardized retention assessment which scored from 0-10. A one-way ANOVA reveled a significant effect of condition on retention scores, F(2,15)=4.36, p=.32. Post Hoc tests showed that participants in the fast tempo condition performed significantly worse than the other conditions. There were no significant differences found between the silent and slow tempo conditions. The findings suggest that fast tempo background music impairs reading retention, likely due to heightened arousal and attentional disruption. The limitations include the small sample size, and lack of demographic data.

As the professional landscape for behavioral sciences evolves, undergraduate programs must transition from broad generalist models to specialized, career-focused curricula that enhance student marketability and graduate school readiness. This presentation, "Psychology Reimagined," outlines a strategic program revision at Briar Cliff University designed to bridge the gap between traditional psychological theory and interdisciplinary practical application. By integrating core behavioral fundamentals—such as developmental psychology, statistics, and research methods—with specialized concentrations, the revised Bachelor of Arts in Psychology provides students with a holistic yet focused educational journey. The program introduces three distinct concentrations: Mental Health, Art Therapy, and Community Psychology. The Mental Health track emphasizes clinical interviewing and assessment skills for aspiring counselors. The Art Therapy concentration leverages interdisciplinary synergy with the Art Department to explore expressive healing modalities. Finally, the Community Psychology track blends psychological principles with sociology and criminal justice, preparing students for roles in forensic psychology, advocacy, and policy administration through community immersion. Preliminary projections indicate that this specialized training increases student confidence and marketability by 27%. By allowing students to "test drive" high-demand career paths and develop professional-grade portfolios, this reimagined curriculum ensures that graduates possess a competitive edge in the job market and standout narratives for advanced graduate placement. This session will detail the structural changes, interdisciplinary collaborations, and projected student outcomes of this innovative pedagogical shift. Keywords: Psychology Program Revision, Interdisciplinary Synergy, Career Readiness, Mental Health Concentration, Art Therapy, Community Psychology, Undergraduate Curriculum, Student Outcomes.

Proficiency in Spanish and an understanding of Hispanic culture are valuable skills in both K–12 music education and information technology. For music teachers, these abilities improve communication with students and families, foster inclusivity, and support the integration of diverse musical traditions into the classroom. For IT specialists, Spanish proficiency enhances communication with a broader range of users and colleagues, leading to better service and collaboration. Overall, language skills and cultural awareness increase effectiveness, adaptability, and competitiveness in both careers.