VITA Tax Prep Program
Grambling State University’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program VITA is a cost-free income tax assistance service to low-income and elderly residents in Lincoln Parish and beyond. Our goal is to provide outstanding free tax preparation service to low-income, mobility challenged, and elderly taxpayers in our community and to provide our students with a high-quality experiential learning experience in the field of taxation. We are open daily using two virtual facilitated self-assisted sites that offer service across the globe, and by appointment through our on-campus fixed site at Grambling State University’s College of Business. Our on-campus site operates weekdays through both Zoom appointments and in-person on a drop-in basis. Students from all disciplines at the university may join VITA. Recruitment for the VITA season begins in the Fall. Students may enroll in a VITA intensive Federal Income Tax accounting course and receive academic credit. All VITA students must complete tax preparation training during the month of January and pass the IRS VITA test at the conclusion of the training. Once certified as VITA volunteers, students are assigned to serve in one of our three tax preparation sites, either one of the two virtual facilitated self-assisted sites, or the on-campus fixed site starting in late January through April 15, supplemented by extensions, amendments, and late filing options through October 15. Students may serve as a Preparer, Supervisor, or a Lead Supervisor.
Food Insecurity and Nutrient Gap
This presentation outlines a comprehensive Service-Learning Project aimed at addressing the intersecting public health crises of Food Insecurity and the Nutrient Gap, often referred to as "Hidden Hunger." While food insecurity is frequently misunderstood merely as an empty stomach, the nutrient gap highlights the hidden starvation of essential micronutrients (such as iron, calcium, and vitamins) caused by a forced reliance on cheap, calorie-dense, but nutritionally void foods. To combat this issue, the project bridges academic research with active civic engagement. Students are tasked with translating complex nutritional and socioeconomic data into accessible, actionable educational flyers designed to help low-income individuals maximize their nutrition. The presentation will detail the project's methodology, including the execution of a targeted, multi-day social media advocacy campaign, the collection of community feedback, and the critical evaluation of systemic barriers (such as poverty and food deserts) that prevent access to nutrient-dense foods. Ultimately, this initiative demonstrates the power of digital advocacy in modern public health education and community empowerment.
Facebook Prosecution: An Investigation into the Demise of Mr. Kyren Lacey.
This study examines the case of Kyren Lacy to explore the social and psychological impact of wrongful accusation and online harassment. Following a fatal crash, Lacy was wrongfully accused based on inconsistent evidence, resulting in intense public backlash and reputational harm. Content analysis of Facebook engagement revealed that after Lacy was charged and convicted of vehicular homicide, engagement increased, with over 85% expressing negative sentiment. While causation cannot be confirmed, the findings suggest that sustained misinformation and cyberbullying contributed to a harmful environment with significant mental health implications and highlight the need for fairer investigative practices.
Keeping Grambling Beautiful Side-by-Side: Love the Boot Week Initiative
Love the Boot Week is the state’s largest litter removal and beautification effort, raising awareness of Louisiana’s ongoing litter challenges. As a grant recipient of Keep Louisiana Beautiful, members of the Honors College at Grambling State University implemented a Love the Boot service-learning project in support of this statewide mission. This presentation highlights the “Keeping Grambling Beautiful: Side-by-Side” initiative, which contributed to the university earning the Love the Boot Outstanding University Award. The project also received recognition from the Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana and was honored with a complimentary billboard, underscoring its impact on community engagement and environmental stewardship.
Ion-Selective Organic Electrochemical Transistors
Conventional Organic Electrochemical Transistors (OECTs) are limited by long channel lengths. This study utilizes a vertical OECT (vOECT) architecture to drastically reduce channel size, enhancing performance for bioelectronics. We investigated the impact of electrolyte molar concentration on device metrics, transitioning to a solid-state design using cellulose films.Results indicate that increasing ion concentration improves performance, with cellulose-integrated devices maintaining these gains. By characterizing these microstructures, we demonstrate that vOECTs provide a high-transconductance, low-power solution for advanced sensing applications, effectively bridging the gap between liquid-gate and solid-state electronics.
Dynamics Of Colorism: Shades of Prejudice
According to Malcom X, “Most Negro parents in those days would almost instinctively treat any lighter children better than they did the darker ones. It came directly from the slavery tradition that the ‘mulatto,’ because he was visibly nearer to white, was therefore ‘better’ (X & Haley, 1965, p. 3).” Colorism is discrimination against individuals due to skin color, usually within an ethnic group. Research questions, answered using interview and survey data, include: Do GSU students know what colorism is? How has colorism impacted them? What do they believe can be done about it? Results are interpreted in terms of sociologist C. Wright Mill’s idea of “personal troubles” versus “public issues.”
We Are One Grambling Initiative
The We Are One Grambling Initiative Service-Learning Project is a community-centered effort designed to bridge education, service, and lived experience through meaningful engagement with senior citizens in Grambling, Louisiana. Rather than focusing solely on physical clean-up activities, this project emphasizes experiential learning, intergenerational connection, and civic responsibility. Through initiatives such as the “Love the Boot Clean-Up,” grocery assistance programs, and senior support services, students and volunteers collaborate with community members to address real-world needs. Participants gain firsthand experience in leadership, communication, and social responsibility while learning the value of service beyond the classroom. The project transforms traditional volunteerism into a structured learning experience where reflection, empathy, and problem-solving are central outcomes. In partnership with Grambling State University, Louisiana Tech, and local organizations, the initiative provides opportunities for students to apply academic knowledge in practical settings. By assisting senior citizens with yard work, errands, and companionship, students develop a deeper understanding of community dynamics and the importance of preserving local legacy. Ultimately, this service-learning project fosters mutual growth: students gain valuable life skills and perspective, while the community benefits from consistent, compassionate support. The One Grambling Initiative demonstrates how service-learning can create lasting educational impact by turning service into a transformative experience rooted in purpose, connection, and community empowerment.
Service-Learning Experience at Live Oak Camp
This presentation highlights a service-learning and experiential learning journey at Live Oak Camp, demonstrating how hands-on experiences have shaped the presenter’s development as a future educator. The presenter will share how his experience fostered teamwork and collaborative engagement while supporting diverse groups of campers through the design of inclusive activities and the creation of a welcoming environment. Additionally, the hands-on experience provided him with meaningful opportunities to apply educational theories in real-world contexts, strengthening skills in communication, adaptability, and teamwork. Ultimately, the service-learning experience at Live Oak Camp reinforced the presenter’s commitment to persistence in his academic journey and reignited his passion for teaching.
Robert Buist’s The Family Kitchen Gardener: Democratizing Gardening Through Domestic Practice and Practical Guidance
This paper examines Robert Buist’s The Family Kitchen Gardener (1847) as a key work that made practical gardening accessible to working- and middle-class families in mid-nineteenth-century America. Drawing on Buist’s training at the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens and his leadership roles in Philadelphia’s horticultural community, the study shows how he shifted gardening from elite ornamental design toward functional, domestic use. The book combines illustrated layouts, recipes, and detailed instructions based on Buist’s experience, serving as both a manual and a household resource. Comparisons with his seed catalogues and contemporary horticultural practices reveal how he used publication and commerce to promote self-sufficiency. By highlighting women, children, and family labor, Buist frames gardening as a collaborative domestic activity rather than an elite pursuit. This study situates Buist within broader social and cultural trends, demonstrating how his practical guidance met household needs while reshaping the cultural role of small-scale gardens and expanding access to horticultural knowledge.
Assessing aquatic macroinvertebrate abundance and resistance to drought
Increased drought frequency and severity has stressed communities that rely on temporary water as a habitat. Aquatic invertebrates are a useful model to assess the communities’ resilience to drying, since they tend to be both abundant and sensitive to changes in the environment. These invertebrates have adapted several strategies to persist during drying, including aestivation and sediment burying. Invertebrates that aestivate may also bury into deeper sediment to preserve moisture, as the deep sediment will dry slower than the topsoil habitat. It is unclear which organisms utilize this strategy to survive dry periods as well as the duration this strategy is successful for tolerating desiccation. This study observed the drying patterns of 9 ponds in Kistachie National Forest. We assessed the aquatic macroinvertebrate abundance in 1L sediment and leaf samples taken from each dried pond between June and October of 2024. We hypothesize that abundance decreases in response to longer drying durations. We found many taxa surviving in the sediment of dry ponds including beetles, flies, dragonflies, freshwater isopods, and sideswimmers. More aquatic invertebrates were found in sediment samples than in leaf litter samples.
Investigating the Photophysical Properties of Cerium Complexes
Scintillators are used in medical scanning, particle physics, and radiation detection. Trivalent cerium (Ce3+), the most abundant and least expensive of the lanthanides, can act as a fast fluorescent metal center that can be used to generate scintillation materials. We are interested in synthesizing molecular compounds with metal-centers that can be doped into organic polymers to create cost effective scintillators. However, most fluorescent Ce3+ scintillator materials are inorganic crystals and not molecular compounds. For this project, we synthesized terpyridines and used commercially available carboxylate ligands to generate luminescent Ce3+ containing complexes. NMR and UV-vis spectroscopy were used to study the binding affinities of ligands to Ce3+. Complicating matters, Ce3+ is able to oxidize into Ce4+, which changes its luminescent properties. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to determine ratios of Ce3+ to Ce4+. Using UV-Vis absorption and steady-state and lifetime emission spectroscopies, we seek to determine what photophysical process is taking place within these cerium complexes. Furthering our understanding of the photophysics of Ce3+ through molecular design will lead to improved scintillators.
An analysis of the impacts of imposter syndrome on Engineering students
Imposter syndrome is characterized by persistent self doubt and fear of being exposed as a fraud despite objective evidence of success. Prior research has linked imposter syndrome to decreases in self-efficacy, psychological well-being, and student retention in demanding academic environments. Within engineering programs, competitive grading structures and heavy workloads may exacerbate these feelings, particularly for students navigating additional structural barriers such as gender and socioeconomic status. For this reason, this study was conducted on third- and fourth- year engineering students at Louisiana Tech University enrolled in a National Science Foundation (NSF) program meeting eligibility criteria based on demonstrated financial need. This group was compared to third- and fourth year engineering students from Louisiana Tech University not enrolled in the program. Quantitative data was collected using the Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale (CIPS), which measures dimensions of imposter syndrome such as fear of failure and discounting success. Group differences were analyzed using independent-samples statistical tests to examine variation across program participation. Qualitative data was collected through open-ended survey responses to determine experiences students identified as increasing or decreasing their feelings of imposter syndrome each academic year.
Decoding Danger: Investigating How Blue Crab Urine Chemistry and Diet Affect Periwinkle Snail Climbing Behavior
Changes in the chemistry or composition of chemical alarm cues can communicate predation risk by indicating predator diet and presence, altering prey behaviors. Blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus) emanate chemical cues that induce avoidance behaviors in estuarine prey, inducing periwinkle snails (Littoraria irrorata) to climb grass stems. Homarine and trigonelline have been identified as fear-causing metabolites in crab urine; However, it is unclear if these metabolites are responsible for snail behaviors or how crab diet or cue composition affects their response. To investigate how these factors affect snail climbing, we conducted climbing assays where cue treatments were added to graduated cylinders with plastic climbing rods. Periwinkles were added and climbing heights were measured at 15, 30, 60 minute intervals over three periods. First, we examined how urine metabolites (homarine and trigonelline) affected periwinkle climbing in comparison to crab cues. While crab cues caused snails to climb, homarine and trigonelline did not, suggesting fear is not induced by these chemicals alone. Next, we investigated how cue composition (crushed vs urine vs crushed and urine), and snail diet cues (periwinkle, olive, & marsh snail) affected climbing. Blue crab urine alone caused similar climbing responses as urine & crushed conspecifics, and climbing responses were diet sensitive.
Project Henry: Making Complex Medical Information Accessible
The process for the Health Hut campaign started with a collaboration with Health Hut staff, which guided the project’s direction. Through meetings and consultations, a group of priority topics was selected: blood pressure, blood sugar, nutrition, and counseling services. Healthcare providers offered feedback to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information prior to the first drafts of the posters. Design development centered on creating friendly, easy-to-understand visuals supported by minimal text. Multiple illustrative styles were explored to find an approach that balanced clarity and engagement. From this process, a mascot, Henry the Health Hut Helper, was created to humanize the medical environment and strengthen the clinic’s visual identity. Multiple stages of prototype handouts were reviewed by the staff to test comprehension and visual appeal. The feedback helped inform revisions that improved color use, layout, and phrasing for greater accessibility. The outcome included four illustrated handouts that provided essential health information and promoted the Health Hut’s services in a unified and approachable manner. Throughout the creative process, the handout campaign went through multiple drafts and iterations before settling on the cohesive and approachable set of handouts and one brand-new mascot.
Collagen Supplementation as a Treatment for Joint Pain
Joint pain is a prevalent and persistent health concern (Products - Data Briefs - Number 497 - February 2024, 2024), especially among elderly people and athletes (Amoako & Pujalte, 2014). There is no known cure for arthritis(Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023), however dietary supplements are a possible treatment (Fikriye Figen Ayhan et al., 2024). One such supplement is Collagen Peptides or Hydrolyzed Collagen (Park et al., 2025). Collagen is an important protein molecule for supporting and protecting the body’s joints because of its excellent rigidity (Wu et al., 2023). Some connective tissue diseases are known to damage collagen, and osteoarthritic patients experience lower levels of collagen synthesis (de Paz-Lugo et al., 2018). 28 different forms of collagen have been identified, but of the 28 there are 5 main types in which are studied and understood to be of importance (Types I-V). Of these types, I and II are the most important in giving structure(I) and providing support(II) to joints. Collagen Peptides may be a safe and effective supplement for reducing joint pain.
Life Impact of Visual Snow Syndrome: Neurological Basis, Treatment Modalities, and Clinical Outcomes
Visual Snow Syndrome is a rare neurological condition that impacts 2-3% of the global population. This condition impacts vision (static), hearing (tinnitus), cognition, sensory processing(paresthesia) , and quality of life for individuals of all ages. Neurological imaging such as MRI’s and EEG’s shows us hyperactivity in brains of individuals with Visual Snow Syndrome. This study investigates how Visual Snow Syndrome current treatment plans and their clinical outcomes impact patients. This research is done through a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative analysis of VIsual Snow individuals alongside surveys reported in the United States with a qualitative review of patient experiences and clinical outcomes. Collaborating with the foundes and from the Visual Snow Initiative show that pharmacological drugs, especially SSRIs, stress, surgeries, and autoimmune disorders, are all a part of these cases. Additionally, qualitative data shows non-pharmacological treatments like FL-40 tents and lenses, mindfulness exercises, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and Cognitive Based Therapies result in more patient symptom relief. In addition to more research, pharmaceutical treatments for Visual Snow often worsen symptoms.
Beyond 2D: Leveraging RAG AI and Virtual Reality for Outlier Detection in Academic Program Assessment
Higher education institutions continue to face challenges in tracking student retention, managing recruitment, and maintaining accreditation standards. For proactive institutional management, statistical outliers are critical for identifying “at-risk” students or exceptionally successful academic programs. However, as educational datasets expand in volume, traditional 2D dashboard visualizations increasingly cause cognitive overload and obscure important anomalies. This paper proposes a hybrid solution that integrates Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) AI with Virtual Reality (VR) Immersive Analytics. By grounding generative AI within institutional data and rendering the retrieved outputs in a 3D environment, this planned architecture aims to reduce cognitive overload, ensure data reliability, and enable university administrators to identify outliers with greater accuracy and speed at a cheaper cost.
SignLex
SignLex is a smart app that helps people learn sign language in a fun and easy way. Users can study signs in the Learn section using flashcards and instructions. Then, in the Practice section, they use a webcam to show signs. The app watches their hands and tells them if the sign is correct. It also gives a score so users know how well they are doing. The frontend is built with Next.js and Tailwind CSS, making the app work well on computers, tablets, and phones. Firebase handles signup, login, and saving user progress. The backend stores user data and test results. The machine learning model is built using TensorFlow, which learns to recognize hand signs from webcam images. We use pandas and other tools to prepare and handle the data that trains the model. When the user shows a sign, the webcam captures it, the ML model checks it, and the result is sent back to the frontend in real time. SignLex combines media devices, frontend, backend, and AI to make learning interactive. Users can learn, practice, and improve anytime. This app shows how technology can make sign language learning fun, fast, and effective for everyone.
Using COSMO-RS and Aspen Plus to Simulate Ionic Liquids for Industrial Scale-up Carbon Capture
Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a prominent issue in today’s industrial and environmental fields. Finding a reliable, affordable, and safe capturing method for CO₂ is necessary to facilitate changes in the industrial sector to meet CO₂ emission standards. One possible solution is the utilization of ionic liquids (ILs). ILs have emerged as promising solvents for CO₂ capture, relying on physical absorption rather than chemical absorption. Their unique properties, low volatility, high thermal stability, 99.9% recyclability, and tunable solubility, make them attractive candidates for energy-efficient CO₂ capture. Recent research efforts have focused on scaling up IL systems, but due to limited experimental data, many critical properties must be estimated through computational methods. COSMO-RS, a quantum chemistry-based predictive tool, provides reliable estimates of the physical and thermodynamic properties required for Aspen Plus simulations. Modeling strategies in Aspen Plus commonly utilize sigma profiles, which represent the molecular surface charge density distribution, along with suitable equations of states. This study test four ILs with varying cations to study the effect this has on CO₂ capture feasibility. This simulation study demonstrates an important step toward advancing IL-based CO₂ capture technologies, offering insights into kinetic modeling, improved understanding of IL behavior, and more reliable scale-up predictions.
Cultivating Nannochloropsis oculata Microalgae Species to Extract Total Algal Lipids and Isolate Phospholipids via Solid-Phase Extraction
Algae, photosynthetic aquatic organisms capable of converting light energy into biomass, have gained attention from the food, cosmetic/cosmeceutical, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries due to the diverse natural compounds present in their cellular structures, including carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Microalgae-derived phospholipids are particularly valuable because of their functional roles in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations as liposome-forming agents, emulsifiers, solubilizers, and wetting agents. Specific phospholipids such as PC, PE, PI, and Lyso-PC are widely utilized and are typically isolated from sources such as soybeans and egg yolk, raising sustainability concerns due to the use of food resources for non-food applications. Additionally, purified phospholipids possess significant economic value, reaching approximately $1,500–$3,000 per gram depending on purity. In this study, Nannochloropsis oculata was cultivated in Erlenmeyer flasks while manipulating the nitrate-to-phosphate (NO₃⁻/PO₄³⁻) ratio at 15, 5, and 1 to evaluate phospholipid productivity. Total lipids were extracted using a modified Folch method and fractionated into neutral lipids, phospholipids, and glycolipids using silica-packed HyperSep™ C18 cartridges. Results showed that ratio 5 yielded the highest phospholipid productivity, followed by ratio 15 and ratio 1, while ratio 15 produced the highest volumetric biomass productivity under these cultivation conditions.
Exploring the Lesbian Subtext in the Novel Dracula
The novel Dracula, written by Bram Stoker, reflects the growing anxiety with sexual repression and changing gender roles during the Victorian period. Stoker displays anxiety about the changing roles of women, and the implications of sexual repression connect with the discussion of gender and sex. When critics access the novel Dracula, they look at it through a queer lens, but they generally overlook the theme of lesbianism. My paper will examine how the characters Mina and Lucy challenge traditional norms in the Victorian period regarding lesbianism. Readers can perceive Mina and Lucy’s relationship as having lesbian undertones in the novel by analyzing their letters, conversations, and interactions with each other. Their intimate connection provided emotional support, love, and affection during a time of turmoil in society. I supported my argument with research from outside sources that helped me expand on the scholarly conversation within Dracula about the topic of queerness. By delving into the historical context of intimate friendships during the Victorian era, I acquired a deeper understanding of Mina and Lucy’s relationship. In a time period of repression marked by strict traditional values, these deep friendships provided women with a sense of companionship and emotional support. These relationships provided a space for women to explore their feelings and desires that were typically suppressed in heterosexual relationships. All in all, my paper examining hints of lesbianism provides insight into how deep female relationships allowed women to express their true desires.
Private Sin and Public Shame
To purify something means to remove the impurities that could contaminate the object and jeopardize its integrity. The Puritans of the 17th century initially took the name “puritan” to signify their purification of the Anglican religion, but instead they have purified society of all its color and warmth. The contrast between the public and private lives of Puritan ministers depicted in the diary of Michael Wigglesworth and his poem "The Day of Doom" as well as John Winthrop's journal and sermon "A Modell of Christian Charity" illustrates how the religion of Puritanism as a whole focuses less on the comfort and peace faith can bring to a society, but rather on the ways that religion can act as a means for those in power to control every aspect of life on both a public and private scale. Puritan officials created a world where everyone thought him or herself so firmly in the wrong that finding someone to confide in seemed like an act of treason against their religion and community. Normal human reactions to the intricacies of life are made condemnable and morals are bent to serve the will of man, not God. The contrast between the public and private lives of those in power showed that everyone across society struggled with balancing a public image of purity and controlling their inner thoughts and urges. Living a life scared of your own thoughts is no way to live, but for the Puritans, it was a good way not to die.
Implementing Compost Education in the Classroom Benefits Campus Sustainability: A Pilot Study
The United States Environmental Protection Agency estimated in their 2019 report that the US alone wasted 66 million tons of food over the span of one year, with 60% of that waste going to landfills. This waste negatively impacts the environment through greenhouse gas emissions and polluting air and water. The EPA claims that resources are also drained to produce these foods, while one third of food produced in the United States ends up never being eaten. Composting is one strategy to promote sustainable practices and reduce the impact of food waste. In this study, compost will be collected and weighed for two weeks pre and post intervention. The intervention includes a video lesson on the benefits and techniques of composting. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a pilot education intervention program on the quantity of food waste, compost production, and compost quality in food labs at Nicholls State University. This study is part of a campus-based composting program for food waste reduction and experiential learning funded by the Nicholls State University Research Council.
Using a Consumer-Grade Blood Glucose Monitor to Study Mutarotation
Mutarotation refers to the change in optical rotation of a solution resulting from the interconversion between anomeric forms of a solute molecule. This study explores the feasibility of using consumer-grade blood glucose monitors (BGMs) to measure glucose concentrations in non-blood samples for instructional laboratory experiments. These devices utilize glucose oxidase, an enzyme that is selective for the β anomer. Glucose oxidase test strips, when used with BGMs, measure the concentration of the β anomer exclusively. However, the device readout reflects the total glucose concentration (α and β), under the assumption that the anomers are in equilibrium, as is typical in blood samples. An aqueous solution of α-D-glucose was allowed to reach equilibrium. Glucose concentrations were then determined using BGM readouts, with adjustments made to account for differences between the sample and typical blood matrices. Measurements were taken using both expired and unexpired test strips. Relative standard deviations from 10 strips of the same lot revealed significant variability, suggesting that a high number of trials is recommended for reliable equilibrium measurements and frequent sampling is advised for kinetic studies. The mean obtained from unexpired strips fell within accepted accuracy standards, while the mean from expired strips was found to be unreliable.
Improving Training & Safety in Engineering Technology Lab
This project at Northwestern State University focuses on improving safety, accessibility, and operational efficiency within the engineering laboratory. The project began with comprehensive machine identification and safety review, during which all major lab equipment was labeled and analyzed using safety schematics. This process enhanced understanding of machine operation, hazard zones, and overall lab layout. Building on this foundation, a detailed safety training and operations manual was developed to guide future students in proper lab procedures, equipment use, and safety compliance. To increase accessibility of this information, a computer kiosk system is currently being implemented. The kiosk will run on a Linux-based operating system, chosen for its reliability and flexibility, and will provide organized access to machine instructions, lab rules, and safety procedures. Additionally, the project includes the development of a safety voltage control circuit using a microcontroller and a switch-based input system. This prototype restricts machine activation to authorized users by requiring a correct input sequence before enabling power. Overall, this project enhances lab safety, organization, and usability, creating a more secure and efficient learning environment for engineering students.
Puerto Rico is America too: The Bad Bunny Effect.
This presentation, titled Puerto Rico is America Too: The Bad Bunny Effect, examines how the Puerto Rican rap artist Bad Bunny raises awareness of Latin American culture in the United States, and more specifically showcasing Puerto Rico as an integral part of the U.S. This project aims to identify and address confusion, misconceptions, and discriminatory views about who is considered part of the United States. Through an analysis of his music, lyrics, and public performances, this presentation explores the themes of identity, representation, language, and national belonging. It considers how Bad Bunny uses his global platform to challenge stereotypes and highlights the political and cultural realities of Puerto Rico. In particular, my research examines his appearance in the Super Bowl halftime show as a key moment of cultural visibility, demonstrating how Latin artists are reshaping mainstream American media. His performances serve not only as entertainment but also as expressions of pride, resistance, and unity across the Americas. Music and performance function as a powerful tool for cultural awareness, helping to redefine what it means to be American and promoting greater inclusivity and understanding.
Analysis of Manual Removal of the Invasive Shrub Nandina domestica in the Grady Erwin Nature Reserve
Nandina domestica is an introduced shrub originating in China and India that disrupts ecosystem processes through allelopathy and competes for dominance with native Louisiana plants. Northwestern State University’s Grady Erwin Nature Reserve contains a large population of 8.9 ha in extent. Nandina berries contain a significant amount of CN which can poison songbirds. To reduce the further spread of Nandina, thirty-two pseudorandom 10 m2 plots were cleared by hand; the plots contained a density of 4.10 ± 0.732 plants/m2 with 6.58 ± 1.05 stems/m2. Eleven of 32 plots regrew adults from root fragments (5 of 11) or included new seedlings (11 of 11) by the next spring. Seedlings comprised 78% of the new plants. Up to 75% of Nandina berries germinate and grow. To reduce the establishment of new plants in this location, 76,005 berries were harvested and destroyed in spring 2025 and 105,187 so far in spring 2026. Since the removal of flowering stems does not induce compensatory growth, flower removal will be used to prevent the production of berries in the future. Since fall 2024, 25 students in Honors Ecology 1 and 2 have contributed time and labor to this project while gaining hands-on experience controlling invasive species.
Prey Capture Behaviors of Lactrodectus sp: L. mactans, L. varioulus, and L. geometricus
Competition, both intraspecific and interspecific, is a strong selective pressure in all organisms, and those that are efficient competitors generally have an advantage in their reproductive success. In this study, we are interested in competitive behaviors in black widow and brown widow spiders (Latrodectus geometricus). Black widow spiders are ubiquitous in the United States, and three different species can be observed: Latrodectus mactans, Latrodectus variolus, and Latrodectus hesperus. In Louisiana, all three have been observed, along with the brown widow spider. The brown widow spider is an invasive species that was introduced to the southeastern United States. Studies have provided support that brown widow spiders are having a negative impact on the native widow species, often displaying a much higher reproductive success than that of black widow populations. It is also possible that brown widows may replace a black widow population entirely. We suspect that competition among these species of spiders would strongly affect the toxicity of their venom and their behaviors in wrapping their prey. To test this hypothesis, we looked for variation in venom toxicity and wrapping behaviors in these spider species. Our trials show significant differences in wrapping behavior and venom toxicity among these spiders, with brown widows having a significantly more venomous bite and more efficient wrapping behavior. This could explain why black widow populations have been entirely replaced with brown widows.
Interactive Outdoor Learning Center: Smart Irrigation for Hands-On STEM Learning
This project presents a solar-powered smart self-watering irrigation system designed to simplify plant care while promoting sustainability and hands-on STEM education. The system uses a microcontroller to monitor environmental conditions through integrated sensors, including soil moisture, water level, and temperature. Based on real-time data, a 12V DC diaphragm pump is automatically activated via a relay module to provide efficient irrigation only when necessary. A rechargeable battery supported by a solar charging system ensures autonomous and energy-efficient operation. System status and ambient temperature (°F) are displayed on an LCD screen, giving users real-time feedback. Beyond its technical features, the project transforms an underutilized school courtyard into an interactive outdoor learning space with seating and a mural. This environment serves as a living laboratory where students can observe engineering, automation, and sustainability concepts in action. By interacting with the system, students gain practical understanding of renewable energy, water conservation, and plant science. Integrating embedded systems, automation, and solar power, the project provides both a functional irrigation solution and an engaging educational platform that inspires curiosity, environmental stewardship, and interest in STEM careers.
Mobile Deployment of Reconnaissance Aerial Vehicles
This undergraduate service-learning project focuses on the design and development of a compact drone launch box system that securely stores and autonomously deploys an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The goal is to create a lightweight, mobile, and weather-resistant platform that supports rapid response for applications such as industrial monitoring, infrastructure inspection, security surveillance, and emergency assistance in diverse environments. The system accommodates single- or dual-drone configurations within a protective enclosure, enabling controlled vertical deployment with minimal human intervention. Key engineering considerations include structural integrity during storage, aerodynamic stability during launch, vibration control, and automated flight stabilization after release. The design process integrates mechanical modeling, material selection, manufacturability, and system integration to ensure reliability, simplicity, and durability. The project is guided by practical needs, with a focus on accessibility and operational efficiency in real-world settings. Performance is evaluated through simulation and theoretical analysis, with emphasis on safety, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. The outcome is a validated prototype concept demonstrating feasibility and readiness for future fabrication and field testing.
Optimism and Perceived Social Support in Gender Minorities: The Role of Minority Stress in LGBTQ+ Quality of Life
Gender minority college students experience stressors both academically and socially as a minority group on campus. Utilizing the Minority Stress Model, external stressors, such as social stigma or gender non-affirmation, may be related to lower quality of life in gender minorities. A convenience sample of 153 retained surveys, 126 cisgender students and 25 gender minority students, took the Gender Minority Stress and Resilience Measure, Revised Life Orientation Test, General Self-efficacy Scale, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Perceived social support had a significant relationship with self-efficacy and optimism (r = .422, p = < .001; r = .390, p = < .001). A bivariate Pearson correlation revealed a negative relationship between gender non-affirmation and perceived social support (r = -.183, p = .023). Gender minorities experienced significantly higher averages of gender discrimination (t24.256 = -7.234, p = < .001) and gender victimization (F3, 147 = 36.25, p = < .001) than majority students. No relationship was found between internalized transphobia and self-efficacy. No mean differences were found between racial groups in optimism levels, but a significant difference exists between gender minority and majority averages (t149 = 1.793, p = .038).
Robotic Additive Manufacturing of Support-Free Parts
(NASA has been actively evaluating additive manufacturing (AM) technologies (also known as 3D printing) for off-earth manufacturing purposes. While the ongoing projects provide valuable insight into the capabilities of AM through technology demonstrations, it is also important to note that the equipment, devices, and materials need to be transported to the end use location, be it International Space Station (ISS) or off-earth locations (e.g., Moon, Mars etc.). Therefore, it is important to maximize equipment utilization and minimize launch payload for such technologies. The current 3D printers are restricted to planar movement for material extrusion which results in slower cycle times due to the need for support materials when printing complex geometries. These support materials need to be removed before the printed object can be used as an end use part. However, it is not practical to bring large amounts of support material due to payload space and weight limitations. For future use case scenarios, printing capabilities will have to be enhanced through implementation of non-planar 3D printing for maximizing equipment utilization and minimizing wait times. This can potentially be demonstrated using a robotic additive manufacturing system which integrates a 6-axis robot with a material extruder as the end effector. In this research, guided by a generalized workflow, non-planar slicing algorithms are developed for support-free AM, a robotic additive manufacturing system is designed and built for multi-axis 3D printing, and lastly, part quality and integrity are investigated for process validation).
PowerPenguin: An Embedded Computer Vision System for Real-Time Driver Drowsiness Detection
Drowsy driving is a major cause of road accidents worldwide and significantly contributes to injuries and fatalities among drivers and passengers. Fatigue impairs reaction time, attention, and decision-making ability, making early detection of driver drowsiness essential for improving road safety. Traditional monitoring methods rely on manual observation or expensive vehicle-integrated systems, which limits their accessibility and widespread adoption. Recent advancements in computer vision and embedded systems provide opportunities for developing automated and low-cost driver monitoring solutions. In this project, we propose a real-time driver drowsiness detection system that leverages computer vision techniques to analyze facial features captured through a camera placed in front of the driver. The system uses OpenCV and MediaPipe FaceMesh to detect facial landmarks and monitor indicators such as eye closure duration, blink frequency, and head orientation. A decision-based algorithm evaluates these parameters to identify signs of fatigue and triggers alerts when predefined thresholds are exceeded. The prototype is implemented using Python and deployed on a Raspberry Pi, which communicates with hardware components including LEDs and a buzzer to provide immediate visual and auditory alerts to the driver. The system is designed to be enclosed in a compact 3D-printed structure for practical in-vehicle deployment. This work demonstrates the potential of integrating computer vision with embedded hardware to create a low-cost and real-time driver safety monitoring system. The proposed solution can serve as a preliminary fatigue detection tool and may contribute to reducing accidents caused by driver drowsiness.
Enantioselective synthesis of aromatase inhibitors: Triazole derivatives from enantiopure syn- and anti-2,3-diaryl Aldols
Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are an important class of therapeutics for the treatment of breast cancer and are associated with fewer adverse effects than estrogen receptor antagonists such as tamoxifen. These relatively safer agents exert their activity by inhibiting estrogen biosynthesis. Previous studies have shown that 1,2,3-triazole derivatives of aldol products derived from phenylacetates exhibit significant inhibitory activity against the aromatase enzyme (CYP19A1). Notably, certain triazole derivatives of syn- aldols—specifically syn-2,3-diaryl-3-hydroxypropanoates—demonstrated substantially higher aromatase inhibition (K i = 80 nM) compared to their anti-aldol counterparts (K i = 790 nM). However, analogous compounds derived from enantiomerically pure syn- or anti-aldols have not yet been evaluated for aromatase inhibition. Building on our recently developed racemic methodology, we are currently focused on developing enantioselective syn- and anti-aldol reactions of substituted phenylacetates. We are in the process of preparing enantiomerically pure syn- and anti-aldols, which will enable the enantioselective synthesis of corresponding 1,2,3-triazole analogs. This approach is expected to yield two distinct sets of novel, enantiomerically pure aromatase inhibitors. In this presentation, we will discuss our progress toward the enantioselective synthesis of these aromatase inhibitors.
Dimensional Accuracy of Additively Manufactured Parts
The objective of NASA’s In-Space Manufacturing initiative is to develop the technologies and processes which will enable on-demand manufacturing capability during long-duration space missions. Accordingly, NASA has been actively evaluating additive manufacturing (AM) technologies for off-earth manufacturing purposes. While the ongoing projects are providing valuable insights on capabilities of AM through technology demonstrations, it is also important to note that the dimensional accuracy of the printed parts play a crucial role when it comes to putting the parts together to form an assembly or installing a part in an existing system as a spare part. The current software and hardware implementation of 3D printing workflow results in parts that deviate from the computer-aided design (CAD) model within a certain range. This is caused by the slicing profiles implemented in the software and the type of hardware configuration used for the printer. To address this issue, a temporary workaround is to use a rule of thumb clearance between all mating joints, resulting in a workflow that requires additional trial and error prints for verification. Such workflow is not ideal for in-space manufacturing where time and resources are limited. In this study, the researchers identified benchmark artifacts, 3D printed the artifacts, measured all features using 3D scanning and digital microscopy according to ASTM standard, and identified the effects of slicing profiles and hardware configurations on dimensional accuracy.
Exploring the selective activity of oxime triethyl ethers on Staphylococcus aureus
The rapid rise of antibiotic resistance underscores the urgent need for new therapeutics that selectively target pathogenic bacteria. We synthesized multiple classes of compounds, including oxime triethyl ethers, quinolines, and biphenyls, and evaluated their antibacterial activity against a panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogens using disk diffusion assays (100 µg per disk). Preliminary results indicate that oxime derivatives selectively inhibit the Gram-positive pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, while exhibiting minimal activity against Gram-negative bacteria, a specificity that may offer clinical advantages by reducing off-target effects. Among the oximes tested, BRSO-22 and BRSO-28 displayed markedly different levels of antibacterial activity, suggesting that structural features of the oxime scaffold can be optimized to enhance efficacy. Additionally, oxime activity modestly increased in MH2 medium compared to MH1 medium, which contains lower concentrations of calcium and magnesium, indicating that divalent cations may influence antibacterial potency. Finally, preliminary evidence suggests that the DedA membrane protein may contribute to S. aureus susceptibility to these compounds, pointing to a potential membrane-associated mechanism of action. Ongoing studies aim to elucidate the molecular basis of oxime activity and the role of divalent cations and DedA proteins in modulating antibacterial susceptibility.
A Flood of Emotion: Reflection on the Resilience of 1983 Tangipahoa Parish Flood Victims and Their 40 Year Fight for Justice
The 1983 Tangipahoa Flood was a disaster that hit Tangipahoa, Louisiana as a result of poor planning of interstate infrastructure, sending feet of floodwater into unprepared locals’ homes and businesses. The flood damaged homes, properties, and livelihoods for many innocent residents of Tangipahoa Parish. In its wake, victims were left to rebuild everything they had wrongfully lost, and–despite the legal pursuits of many–were left battling to repair and replace damage on their own, without government assistance. This took a deep mental toll on the residents of Tangipahoa Parish, and the aim of this research is to convey–through interviews with victims–the tension and emotions being felt at the time. Victims toiled for 40 years before a dime ever hit their account–with many older flood victims never seeing the day of payment. The 1983 Tangipahoa Parish Flood also left the community vulnerable for future flooding, as the infrastructural issues with the interstate were never remedied. The aim of this research is to represent the stories of victims accurately and clearly conveying that the story of the 1983 Flood is one of loss and profound generational resilience–reflecting the lives’ of victims forced to rebuild for decades without compensation or apology.
DedA proteins mediated Undecaprenyl Phosphate Recycling Modulates PhoPQ-Driven Virulence and Fitness
The DedA protein family comprises highly conserved inner membrane proteins with poorly defined physiological roles. Recent evidence suggests that some DedA proteins function as undecaprenyl phosphate (Und-P) flippases. Und-P is an essential lipid carrier required for cell wall biosynthesis, lipid A aminoarabinose modification, and capsule production, key determinants of bacterial virulence, making it an attractive therapeutic target. Here, we show that deletion of two redundant DedA homologs, YqjA and YghB, markedly sensitizes Klebsiella pneumoniae to bacitracin, an inhibitor of Und-P recycling, indicating that these proteins are required for efficient Und-P turnover. Loss of DedA proteins leads to constitutive activation of the PhoPQ two-component system, a major virulence regulator, and increases sensitivity to substrates that elevate electron load, such as the long-chain fatty acid oleate. In the absence of DedA proteins, PhoPQ-dependent upregulation of ispU, encoding the enzyme responsible for de novo synthesis of Und-PP, was observed. Consistently, phoP and phoQ transposon mutants exhibit increased bacitracin sensitivity. Together, these findings demonstrate that impaired Und-P recycling drives sustained PhoPQ activation. While this response may enhance virulence, it imposes a fitness cost under conditions of high electron load and elevated ATP demand. We propose that combining Und-P recycling inhibitors with long-chain fatty acids may enhance therapeutic efficacy.
Removal of Forever Chemicals from Water Using Ultraviolet-Assisted Advanced Oxidation
Forever chemicals are class of bioaccumulative and non-biodegradable compounds in the per and poly fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA) are a C8 and C4 perfluorinated carboxylic acid that are in the PFAS family. PFOA and PFBA are environmental pollutants with major consequences to human health at very low levels of exposure. PFBA is the short-chain analog to PFOA which is considered a long chain compound within the perfluorocarboxylic acid family of PFAS. PFBA poses a greater challenge to remediation efforts than PFOA because it is more mobile in soil and water and is less susceptible to physical treatments. One method being studied for the removal of PFAS is the use of advanced oxidation processes using ultraviolet irradiation with hydrogen peroxide added for formation of hydroxyl radicals. Peroxide can be introduced to the reactor using either batch addition or semi-batch addition. The object of the peroxide is to aid in the removal of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAA) and its breakdown products by functioning as a source of the strong, non-selective hydroxyl radical. A range of hydrogen peroxide additions have been tested in a bench-scale reactor spiked with environmentally relevant concentrations of the selected PFAS, and the results were analyzed to determine removal efficiency for each treatment. While more work is needed to reach commercially viable removal of PFAS using this process, this study advances knowledge in ultraviolet-assisted oxidation of PFAS by ultraviolet/hydrogen peroxide advanced oxidation processes and presents possibilities for improvement of efficiency.
Iterative PLC Design for Solar Drying Control
Renewable thermal processes, such as solar drying, are inherently variable due to changing irradiance and ambient conditions. Water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes), an invasive aquatic plant, is a promising feedstock for fiber-based products, but requires stable drying for reliable processing. In 2025, the Louisiana Regional Test Center initiated a solar-thermal dryer project to convert harvested water hyacinth into a dried intermediate for fiber production. The dryer integrates multiple subsystems including water loops, radiators, HVAC equipment, and distributed sensors, requiring coordinated operation. This work presents the development of a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Human Machine Interface (HMI) that centralize control, monitoring, and safeguards for respective machines. The PLC and HMI enable operation of experiments either via manual touchscreen or automatic control. Through logical checks and system monitoring, automatic mode serves as a foundational SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) platform. Using numerous sensors, key variables like internal temperature and humidity are used for ladder logic control. Through observing acquired data, the need for implementing hysteresis around thermal fluctuations was found critical, due to short cycling in the HVAC equipment. Using this control philosophy, a target temperature for the drying room of 60° Celsius and a relative humidity of 50% was achieved. Overall, our system is highly adaptable to changing needs, which supports the relevance of PLC within renewable systems and research based projects. This presentation will primarily explore the results of iterative troubleshooting and optimizing this control system in tandem with the dryer design.
Entropy-Based
Resiliency in space-based power systems is critical to the future of deep-space mission success, and autonomous fault detection becomes necessary due to communication latency and a lack of hardware access. Therefore, improving accuracy of autonomous control is of great importance for the future of space exploration. This research explores the use of fuzzy entropy as a feature enhancement technique that can be used towards AI-driven fault classification of space-based power systems. The fuzzy entropy of sensor data quantifies the complexity of the system over time, increasing the distinguishability between the normal and faulty state operations. Using two different separability metrics, the use of entropy-based preprocessing resulted in a 37.5% increase in correlation-based separability and a 194.6% improvement in separability index compared to raw sensor data, while under 0.2ms sampling constraints. These results demonstrate that entropy‑enhanced preprocessing could strengthen real‑time fault detection and classification performance in space‑based power systems.