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The Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences (BCAS) hosted its fourth annual Celebration of Undergraduate Research and Creativity on April 14 — a showcase of the diverse and exceptional research and creative projects that were completed by more than 130 students in 17 fields of study. The event was led by Dr. John Senko, associate dean of research and graduate studies.

2026 Research Program

The afternoon featured various activities, including poster sessions, oral presentations, art and multimedia exhibits, and music performances, all of which were judged by University leadership alongside college faculty and staff. The event provided an opportunity for undergraduate students to present their work, receive feedback from their peers and faculty across different areas of study, and engage in interdisciplinary discussions.

A Broad Spectrum of Work

The poster sessions featured more than 100 presentations from 17 disciplines, including biology, chemistry, education, geosciences, communication, modern languages, psychology and statistics. The posters displayed the students' research findings and were available to answer questions and provide additional information to a panel of judges.

The event also featured presentations of creative work from areas such as graphic design, painting + drawing, and multimedia production. Also taking the stage were three music performances. Four oral presentations were also held, featuring students in English, philosophy, education and communication.

Showcasing Discovery and Creativity

The Celebration of Undergraduate Research & Creativity was a resounding success and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, remarked Senko. He noted that it highlighted the importance of undergraduate research and creativity and demonstrated the value of Buchtel College in fostering a culture of excellence, belonging and innovation.

Special thanks to our judges: Phil Allen, Charitha Basnayaka, Donray Bennett, Toni Bisconti, Alex Boika, Chris Buford, Julie Cajigas, Vivian Campbell, Nick Chesarino, Patrick Chura, Daniel Coffey, Camelly Cruz-Martes, Al Daviso, Sujay Datta, Bill Donovan, Corinne Duwe, Becky Erickson, Caleb Holyoke, Nadeesha Jayaweera, Scott Kenimond, Rich Londraville, Nidaa Makki, Andrea Meluch, Chelsea Miller, Tim Moneypenny, Hillary Nunn, Stacey Nofziger, Alexis Ortiz, John Peck, Karen Plaster, Kirstin Polen de Campi, Nick Pollock, JJ Ramirez, Jordan Renna, Ashley Rini, John Senko, Jenny Stanley, Ann Usher, Bill Visco, Heather Walter, Molly Witter-Shelleman.

Congratulations to the winners!

• Best Poster Natural Sciences
  • Grace Kruse (Geosciences), Effect of Stress Concentrations on the Quartz to Coesite Reaction During Crystal Plastic Deformation

• Best Musical Performance
  • Samantha Innis, Theo Amonett, Ryan McInerney, William Walker (Music), Three Pieces by Gabriel Pierne
• Best Oral Presentation
  • Myann Nipper (Philosophy), Humanity, Immortality, and Football: A Philosophical Analysis of 17776

• Best Exhibit
  • Jaqueline Kist and Elyse Orosa (not pictured), Art, The Archive & The Present Day
• Best Poster Social Sciences
  • Bryan Phillips (Psychology), Mental Health Crisis Responders: A Public Perception Study

• Best Poster Arts & Humanities
  • Kendall Ackerman, not pictured (Philosophy, Spanish Minor), Fidel Castro and His Rise to Power

Congratulations to the winners!

• Story by: Lisa Craig, BCAS Marketing, 330-972-7429 or lmc91@uakron.edu.
• Media contact: media@uakron.edu