The College of Health Sciences recently hosted its Inaugural Interprofessional Student Research Symposium at the end of April, showcasing the innovative and impactful research conducted by its students. The event featured 15 student papers, each presenting unique insights and advancements in various health science fields.
Among the presentations, three papers stood out and were awarded for their exceptional contributions:
First Place (Tie):

Ashlyn Shaver: The Effect of Modifying Arterial Compliance on Measures of Arterial Occlusion Pressure. Ashlyn’s research delved into how changes in arterial compliance can influence arterial occlusion pressure, offering potential implications for cardiovascular health and treatment strategies.
Makenna Colbert, Leodora Lehmann, and Lexi Roberts: Exploration of Factors Impacting Viscosity of Blenderized Tube Feeding Preparations. This collaborative study explored the various factors that affect the viscosity of blenderized tube feeding preparations, aiming to improve nutritional support for patients requiring tube feeding.

Second Place:

Sadie Burdett: Ecological Influences on Psychological Distress among College Students: A Bivariate Analysis. Sadie’s presentation examined the ecological factors contributing to psychological distress in college students, providing valuable insights into mental health challenges and potential interventions.
Dr. Javiar Boyas, Assistant Dean of Research for the College of Health Sciences, praised the students’ efforts, stating, “The dedication and creativity demonstrated by our students at this symposium are truly inspiring. Their research not only advances our understanding of critical health issues but also paves the way for future innovations in the field.”
He further added, “Events like these are essential for fostering a collaborative environment where students can share their knowledge and learn from each other. I am incredibly proud of the work presented and look forward to seeing how these findings will contribute to the broader health sciences community.”
The symposium not only highlighted the students’ dedication and hard work but also fostered a collaborative environment for sharing knowledge and inspiring future research endeavors. The College of Health Sciences looks forward to continuing this tradition and supporting the academic growth of its students.