2019 Winners

Individual Non-Freshman Category: Aubrey Busenitz, senior in civil engineering, Tecumseh, Kan.

“Feasibility Study of Bioretention Cells”
ENGL 415: Written Communications for Engineers
Course instructor: Marcella Reekie, instructor in English

Abstract: Busenitz’s report, which is written for a two-fold audience of expert engineers and business executives, outlines the need for storm water mitigation in Manhattan, KS. It focuses on bio retention cells, also known as rain gardens, as an effective solution to alleviate storm water runoff. For the purpose of this project, Busenitz writes as a hypothetical project engineer for the City of Manhattan reporting on a solution for recent floods. It lays out the flood-related problems and presents analysis of the efficiency of bio retention cells as a means to alleviate storm water runoff. Busenitz also includes the cost to design, construct, and maintain bio retention cells, and makes final recommendations and conclusions.

Group Category: Macy Heinrich, senior in social work, Abilene, Kan.; Brooklyn Jesseph, junior in social work, Wichita, Kan.; and Colette Shields, sophomore in social work, De Soto, Kan.

“Adverse Childhood Experiences Lead to Depression”
SOCWK 330: Social Research Methods & Analysis
Course instructor: Jung Sim Jun, assistant professor of social work

Abstract: This study focuses on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and the link between adulthood depression in the Hispanic culture. The two variables, ACE scores and depression, were evaluated, and the authors examined correlations. Their study hypothesizes that the higher the ACE score an individual has, the more likely they are to experience depression as an adult. The authors focus on Hispanic culture because 1) past studies primarily focus on predominantly white cultures and 2) because individuals need to understand the full impact of their experiences and how better approaches can be created to help them address their potential trauma and mental illness. They further investigate how impactful childhood experiences are on an individual’s adulthood and how it can be helpful for practitioners to better understand their clients.

Honorable Mentions

Olivet Martinez, senior in biology/pre-med, Dodge City, Kan., “Effects of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages on Glycemic and Insulinemic Outcomes: A Randomized Control Trial.” Martinez completed her project for Undergraduate Research Experience, GNHE 499, with Sara Rosenkranz, associate professor of human nutrition.

Natalie Wolf, junior in English and Spanish, Tonganoxie, Kan., “Learning History from Patent Medicines: Newbro's Herpicide in Early Twentieth Century Kansas, English.” Wolf completed her project for Introduction to Historical Thinking, HIST 300, with M.J. Morgan, adjunct professor in history.

Jessica Brummel, senior in music education, Louisburg, Kan.; Sidnie Davidson, senior in music education, El Dorado, Kan.; Abigail Giles, senior in music education, Byers, Kan.; Addyson Howard, senior in elementary education, Kansas City, Mo.; Alex Meek senior in music education, Derby, Kan.; and Abigail Robinson, senior in music education, Wichita, Kan., “Action Research in Underserved High Schools: Effective Pedagogy in Music Classrooms.” The group completed their project for Undergraduate Research in Arts and Sciences, DAS 400, taught by Ruth Gurgel, assistant professor of music education.