Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
Winning Formula: Utah's College Sports Score Big for Communities and Universities
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Nov. 25 (TNSrpt) -- The University of Utah Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute issued the following news release:
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A Winning Formula: Utah's college sports score big for communities and universities
Beyond the scoreboards and stadium lights, Division I collegiate athletics at Utah's public universities confer substantial benefits to communities and their respective institutions of higher learning. A first-of-its-kind study from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute illustrates the many ways in which collegiate athletics contribute more than just economic benefits. The report
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SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Nov. 25 (TNSrpt) -- The University of Utah Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute issued the following news release:
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A Winning Formula: Utah's college sports score big for communities and universities
Beyond the scoreboards and stadium lights, Division I collegiate athletics at Utah's public universities confer substantial benefits to communities and their respective institutions of higher learning. A first-of-its-kind study from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute illustrates the many ways in which collegiate athletics contribute more than just economic benefits. The reportreveals how these programs serve as cornerstones of community identity, encourage school pride, and provide invaluable opportunities for student-athletes to excel both on and off the field.
"We often focus on the tangible benefits of college sports, but this report digs deeper," said Natalie Gochnour, director of the Gardner Institute. "It uncovers incredible ways that athletics strengthen our social bonds, enhance the educational experience, and elevate Utah's standing on a national stage."
Key takeaways from the report include the following:
Community Benefits - The report shows how college sports act as a unifying force, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, and community members from all walks of life. From the spirited traditions of homecoming celebrations to the electrifying atmosphere of game days, these shared experiences foster strong community bonds and create lasting memories.
Student-Athlete Impact - The research emphasizes the transformative impact of athletics on student-athletes. It highlights how participation in college sports expands access to higher education, cultivates leadership skills, instills a strong work ethic, and promotes a lifelong commitment to health and well-being. For example, nearly 2,100 student-athletes received more than $41 million in athletic scholarships during FY 2024, expanding access to higher education, especially for first-generation students, who make up about 15% of NCAA Division I student-athletes nationwide.
University Brand - In a Pac-12 visitor experience survey, a sample of visitors during the 2011 football season reported an increase in favorable or very favorable impressions of Salt Lake City from 67% to 89% after attending a University of Utah football game. Marquee games, such as regional or nationally televised regular season and postseason/bowl games, generate significant Earned Media Value (EMV) for teams in the state and their schools. For example, marketing experts conservatively estimate broadcast and digital EMV of the Fox Sports Big Noon Kickoff game in 2025 between Utah and Texas Tech totaled between $1.8 million and $3.5 million for the University of Utah.
Economic Contributions - Analysts estimate that in 2024, 2,100 student-athletes, 24 Division I NCAA sports, $19 million in ticket sales for events, and other related athletic activities at the state's public universities contributed $409 million in economic output, $229 million in gross domestic product, and over 3,000 jobs to the Utah economy.
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REPORT: https://d36oiwf74r1rap.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/College-Sports-Nov2025-Final.pdf
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Original text here: https://gardner.utah.edu/news/a-winning-formula-utahs-college-sports-score-big-for-communities-and-universities/
University of North Carolina Belk College of Business: Entrepreneurship Master's Degree Designed to Accelerate Innovation, Entrepreneurial Success
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 25 -- The University of North Carolina Belk College of Business issued the following news:
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New entrepreneurship master's degree designed to accelerate innovation, entrepreneurial success
A new Master of Science in Entrepreneurship degree with an incubator approach will launch in the heart of Charlotte, offering specially designed academic classes, mentoring and access to support organizations -- all designed to accelerate entrepreneurs' ability to roll out a company or product.
The UNC Board of Governors on Nov. 20 approved the degree, which will be offered
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CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, Nov. 25 -- The University of North Carolina Belk College of Business issued the following news:
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New entrepreneurship master's degree designed to accelerate innovation, entrepreneurial success
A new Master of Science in Entrepreneurship degree with an incubator approach will launch in the heart of Charlotte, offering specially designed academic classes, mentoring and access to support organizations -- all designed to accelerate entrepreneurs' ability to roll out a company or product.
The UNC Board of Governors on Nov. 20 approved the degree, which will be offeredby the Belk College of Business at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City, in collaboration with the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation CO-LAB space. It will be the only master's degree of its kind offered by a public university in North Carolina.
"We have created this new degree in direct response to the needs of Charlotte and the surrounding region, as the entrepreneurial and innovation sector continues to grow," said Belk College Dean Richard Buttimer. "Our program will contribute directly to the economic vitality of the region, through our renowned faculty expertise and the power of the resources available through CO-LAB at UNC Charlotte Center City."
The program will enroll students starting in fall 2026. It will support growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem and Charlotte's North Tryon Tech Hub, an innovation district designed to spur entrepreneurship, corporate collaboration and academic research in Center City Charlotte.
The one-year Charlotte program will include 30 credit hours of coursework, designed and delivered by Charlotte faculty who are experts in innovation, business principles and other relevant topics. Courses will cover design thinking, strategy, lean startup, law, business models and plans, finance and more.
"Entrepreneurs are curious and creative people who seek to translate their ideas into solutions," said Belk Distinguished Professor in Business Innovation Justin Webb, who has led the curriculum development process. "Our graduate degree will provide entrepreneurs access to the academic and practical knowledge they need to build their confidence and also their knowledge in business and entrepreneurship principles. This will equip them to bring their ideas to life."
The academic courses will be complemented by an ongoing mentoring experience, access to incubator space and entrepreneurial support organizations housed in the CO-LAB innovation and entrepreneurship hub. Students will participate in pitch events, gain access to corporate partners and find opportunities to connect with venture capital groups and angel investors, all of which will grow their competencies.
"Entrepreneurship today means having the ability to create, adapt and lead, whether you are launching a startup or working for a major company," said Brad Yeckley, executive director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. "We are committed to helping emerging entrepreneurs -- including those enrolled in the new master's program -- navigate the innovation ecosystem with real-world experiences, cross-sector interdisciplinary collaboration and unparalleled skill development."
Entrepreneurship-related occupations are projected to grow by 13.7 percent in North Carolina between 2024 and 2034, outpacing overall employment growth, which is projected to grow by only 10.9 percent during the same period.
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Original text here: https://belkcollege.charlotte.edu/2025/11/20/new-entrepreneurship-masters-degree/
UT Tyler Biochemistry Senior Recognized at National Honors Conference
TYLER, Texas, Nov. 25 -- The University of Texas Tyler campus issued the following news release:
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UT Tyler Biochemistry Senior Recognized at National Honors Conference
By Hannah Buchanan
Alexis Osborn of Krum, an honors student and senior biochemistry major at The University of Texas at Tyler, placed first for her undergraduate research poster in the health sciences category at the 2025 National Collegiate Honors Council Conference.
Her poster, "Investigating Methods for Small Molecule Polymerization Inside the HK97 Virus-like Particle," was among the 82 posters in the category and grew
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TYLER, Texas, Nov. 25 -- The University of Texas Tyler campus issued the following news release:
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UT Tyler Biochemistry Senior Recognized at National Honors Conference
By Hannah Buchanan
Alexis Osborn of Krum, an honors student and senior biochemistry major at The University of Texas at Tyler, placed first for her undergraduate research poster in the health sciences category at the 2025 National Collegiate Honors Council Conference.
Her poster, "Investigating Methods for Small Molecule Polymerization Inside the HK97 Virus-like Particle," was among the 82 posters in the category and grewfrom work with her undergraduate research adviser, Dr. Dustin Patterson, UT Tyler professor and assistant chair of chemistry and biochemistry. This year, 359 posters were collectively presented in 11 categories from nearly 500 submissions.
"We're so proud of Lexi, who brought home the top spot in the toughest and largest category at the biggest student research conference in the nation," said Dr. Paul Streufert, UT Tyler professor and Honors College founding dean. "This prize is a testament to Lexi's hard work over the years in her field of biochemistry and Dr. Patterson's amazing mentoring."
Osborn will graduate next spring with a bachelor's degree and plans to continue her education upon graduation. "This experience will be one I will remember forever. I am so appreciative of the Honors College and UT Tyler for giving me this opportunity, and my mentor, Dr. Patterson, who helped me learn everything I know," she said.
Since 1965, the National Collegiate Honors Council serves as both support and a place where collaboration and community can take place between honors programs across the United States and beyond. To learn more, visit: nchchonors.org/.
With a mission to improve educational and health care outcomes for East Texas and beyond, UT Tyler offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs to more than 11,500 students. Through its alignment with UT Tyler Health Science Center and UT Health East Texas, UT Tyler has unified these entities to serve Texas with quality education, cutting-edge research and excellent patient care. Classified by Carnegie as a doctoral research institution and by U.S. News & World Report as a national university, UT Tyler has campuses in Tyler, Longview, Palestine and Houston.
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Original text here: https://www.uttyler.edu/about/news/pressrelease/2025/11242025.php
UT Health San Antonio Scientists Launch Innovative Therapy Study to Help Parkinson's Patients Swallow Safely
SAN ANTONIO, Texas, Nov. 25 -- The University of Texas Health San Antonio issued the following news release:
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UT Health San Antonio scientists launch innovative therapy study to help Parkinson's patients swallow safely
Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, affect up to 80% of people with Parkinson's disease and can lead to serious complications, including malnutrition, aspiration and reduced quality of life.
With a new three-year, $1.9 million grant from the Department of Defense, Giselle Carnaby, PhD, MPH, a researcher at UT Health San Antonio, the academic health center of The University
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SAN ANTONIO, Texas, Nov. 25 -- The University of Texas Health San Antonio issued the following news release:
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UT Health San Antonio scientists launch innovative therapy study to help Parkinson's patients swallow safely
Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, affect up to 80% of people with Parkinson's disease and can lead to serious complications, including malnutrition, aspiration and reduced quality of life.
With a new three-year, $1.9 million grant from the Department of Defense, Giselle Carnaby, PhD, MPH, a researcher at UT Health San Antonio, the academic health center of The Universityof Texas at San Antonio, will lead a phase 2, multisite clinical trial to test a novel treatment program designed to strengthen and retrain swallowing function in people with early Parkinson's.
The randomized, double-blind clinical trial will enroll about 80 participants who are between the ages of 30 and 90, diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and are active-duty U.S. service members, veterans or direct relatives of service members.
"This study represents an important step forward for people who struggle with swallowing disorders," said Carnaby, a professor in the departments of Health Sciences, and Communication Sciences and Disorders, with the School of Health Professions. "We know these problems have a profound effect on health and independence, yet treatment options remain limited."
How does Parkinson's disease affect swallowing?
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement, caused by the breakdown of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. There is no cure for this disease, and treatments are limited. Along with tremors and muscle stiffness, many patients experience difficulties with the motor control of their mouth and throat muscles, which affects their ability to swallow food and liquids.
Swallowing is one of the most complex tasks the human body performs, involving nearly 30 muscles and a network of brain regions. In Parkinson's disease, the same neurodegenerative changes that impair walking and speech also disrupt swallowing-related brain pathways, weakening their ability to send clear signals to the muscles involved.
"It's like the brain's radio is slightly off the station," Carnaby said. "You can still hear the signal, but it doesn't always get through clearly. Sometimes it comes in loud and clear; other times it's fuzzy. The result is that the messages to the muscles can become haphazard, which can disrupt the timing and coordination of swallowing."
This communication breakdown can cause food or liquid to move more slowly, get held up or even enter the airway - called aspiration - which can lead to persistent coughing and lung infections. By targeting these brain-muscle connections with structured swallowing therapy, Carnaby and her team aim to retrain and bolster the physiological processes to support safe, effective swallowing.
Pilot study showed promising results
Carnaby and her research team recently completed a pilot study that tested an intensive swallowing exercise program in a small group of Parkinson's patients. Participants practiced targeted swallowing tasks with therapist supervision, emphasizing both strength and muscle coordination.
The results were encouraging. Participants who completed the program showed improvements in swallowing, along with increased confidence in eating and fewer choking and coughing episodes.
"Even though Parkinson's is progressive, what we found in the pilot was that patients could make real, meaningful gains," Carnaby said. "That gave us the validation to pursue a larger, controlled trial."
New Department of Defense study
The newly funded project will expand on this early work. The study will compare outcomes between individuals receiving the proactive swallowing intervention, called "SwallowFIT," and those undergoing usual care.
The primary recruitment site will be Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, which has a movement disorders clinic with specialized neurologists and neurophysiologists involved in the project. For this study, swallow treatment will be conducted at UT Health San Antonio, which will also serve as a data repository.
In addition to Carnaby, the study team includes Jonathan Gelfond, MD, PhD, associate professor and chief of biostatistics in the Department of Population Health Sciences within UT San Antonio's Long School of Medicine, as well as Lt. Col. Alexis Nelson, MD, and Maj. Jessie Jacobson, DO, who are both neurologists at Brooke Army Medical Center.
The research team will track improvements in swallowing along with longer-term outcomes at three and six months. These include swallowing clinical metrics, aspiration rates, nutritional status and hospitalizations. Advanced imaging and physiological measures will be used to better understand how the therapy alters swallowing efficiency and biomechanics.
While not directly part of the study, the control group will be offered the chance to receive the treatment following the study.
"After the pilot study, the effects were so strong that the research team felt it wouldn't be responsible or ethical to restrict the treatment to only half of the patients," Carnaby said. "So, it will be available to (the control group participants) if they want it."
What does the program entail?
The program is built on the principles of neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize connections and processes. Study participants will complete structured swallowing exercises twice a week, focusing on strengthening muscles of the mouth, tongue and throat, combined with coordination drills to improve timing and control of the swallowing process.
Sessions will continue for six weeks with trained speech-language pathologists at the university. In addition to in-clinic therapy, participants are encouraged to perform daily guided exercises at home.
"The exercises may look simple, but they're designed to push the system in very specific ways," Carnaby said. "We're trying to recalibrate motor pathways so that swallowing becomes safer and more efficient."
How could this help people with Parkinson's?
By improving swallowing, the intervention has the potential to directly reduce the risk of negative swallowing consequences such as aspiration, which is the leading cause of death in people with Parkinson's. It may also help patients maintain adequate nutrition and hydration, supporting overall health and quality of life.
Equally important, Carnaby said, are the psychological and social benefits.
"Being able to share a meal with family without fear of coughing and choking is incredibly powerful," she said. "We hope this therapy will give patients more confidence and independence in their daily lives."
Future research and goals
If successful, the trial could lay the groundwork for widespread adoption of proactive swallowing intervention as a standard component of early Parkinson's care. Carnaby envisions future studies that refine and personalize this therapy, possibly combining the swallowing exercises with medications or neuromodulation approaches to further enhance outcomes.
"There's a need for therapies that go beyond symptom management alone to address the mechanisms of functional decline," she said. "Our goal is to slow or even prevent some of the most debilitating complications of Parkinson's disease."
As Parkinson's is the fastest-growing neurodegenerative disease, the findings from this study could have direct implications for nearly 1 million Americans affected by the condition.
"This is about giving patients more time and a better quality of life," Carnaby said. "That's what drives our work every day."
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Learn about other projects going on in Carnaby's Swallowing and Upper Aerodigestive Functions Lab: https://labs.uthscsa.edu/saul/research/
Related stories:
School of Health Professions professor aims to elevate and expand dysphagia research in South Texas (https://news.uthscsa.edu/school-of-health-professions-professor-aims-to-elevate-and-expand-dysphagia-research-in-south-texas/)
Restoring hope for people with swallowing disorders (https://news.uthscsa.edu/restoring-hope-and-function-for-people-with-swallowing-disorders/)
Hard to swallow: Helping dysphagia patients find hope and function (https://magazines.uthscsa.edu/mission/hard-to-swallow-helping-dysphagia-patients-find-hope-and-function/)
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UT Health San Antonio is the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), offering a comprehensive network of inpatient and outpatient care facilities staffed by medical, dental, nursing and allied health professionals who conduct more than 2.5 million patient visits each year. It is the region's only academic health center and one of the nation's leading health sciences institutions, supported by the schools of medicine, nursing, dentistry, health professions, graduate biomedical sciences and public health that are leading change and advancing fields throughout South Texas and the world. To learn about the many ways "We make lives better(R)," visit UTHealthSA.org.
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Original text here: https://news.uthscsa.edu/ut-health-san-antonio-scientists-launch-innovative-therapy-study-to-help-parkinsons-patients-swallow-safely/
More Than 200 Students Present Scholarly Work at IU Research Conference
KOKOMO, Indiana, Nov. 25 -- Indiana University Kokomo campus issued the following news:
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More than 200 students present scholarly work at IU research conference
As a child, Jackson McCullough considered joining the military to protect people.
As a computer science major at Indiana University Kokomo, he's found other ways protect people, by studying the cybersecurity vulnerabilities of autonomous drones.
"We're growing drone usage, but not drone security," said McCullough, from Arcadia. "This was the kick starter to my cybersecurity path."
He was among more than 200 Indiana University
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KOKOMO, Indiana, Nov. 25 -- Indiana University Kokomo campus issued the following news:
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More than 200 students present scholarly work at IU research conference
As a child, Jackson McCullough considered joining the military to protect people.
As a computer science major at Indiana University Kokomo, he's found other ways protect people, by studying the cybersecurity vulnerabilities of autonomous drones.
"We're growing drone usage, but not drone security," said McCullough, from Arcadia. "This was the kick starter to my cybersecurity path."
He was among more than 200 Indiana Universitystudents who showcased their knowledge Friday (November 21) at the 31st Indiana University Undergraduate Research Conference on the Kokomo campus. The event celebrates and promotes undergraduate research, scholarly and creative achievement, professional development, and lifelong learning on all nine IU campuses.
The conference awarded first-, second-, and third-place recognition for outstanding presentations.
First-place honors went to Salma Kherallah, IU Indianapolis, with The Availability of Unethically Sourced 3D Anatomy Models on Peer-to-Peer Websites, with Andrew S. Cale, assistant professor of anatomy, cell biology and physiology, IU School of Medicine.
Second place was awarded to Ibrahim Abdulrehman and Sahith Reddy, IU Southeast, and third place to Dana Peng and collaborators Catharina BP Villaca and Teresa L. Mastracci, from IU Indianapolis.
McCullough was one of 11 IU Kokomo students who shared their research findings, through oral presentation or poster presentation.
He completed his work, Skyshield: Game-Theoretic Defenses to Autonomous Drones, with Aakif Mairaj, assistant professor of computer science. They noted that drones are increasingly employed in agriculture for crop monitoring, and in health care for medication deliveries, among other uses. They studied how an attacker can deploy and identify a defensive approach to mitigate the effects of an attack.
It was a transformative experience.
"I was waiting to see where I belong," he said, adding that it's steered him toward a career in security engineering.
Her own ADHD diagnosis, and that of her children, inspired Holly Hunter to research self-esteem, motivation, and impulsivity among people with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder in her presentation, The role of motivation/self-esteem on impulsivity with neurodivergent individuals.
"I was diagnosed at 5, and I struggled a lot academically," said Hunter, from Amboy. "My goal is to become a school psychologist to help kids get the resources they need. If they get the right resources, these kids can thrive."
Working with Kathryn Holcomb, associate professor of psychology, encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone to present her work in person.
"She's pushed me in all the classes I've had with her, because she knows I can do better," Hunter said. "She's good at giving positive feedback and pushing me to do my best."
Haley Roberts's wish for better end-of-life care for her great-grandmothers inspired her research presentation, Exploring Public Perceptions and Moral Beliefs about Medical Aid in Dying: A Quantitative Study.
"I grew up with four of my great-grandmothers, and we were not equipped with proper end-of-life knowledge," she said, adding that they might have considered palliative care had they known more.
"Taking care of people at the end of their lives is very important to me," she said.
Roberts worked with Stephanie Medley-Rath, professor of sociology, on her research.
Additional IU Kokomo students, and their presentations, included:
* Karedis Araujo, Carmel, Informed not Forced, highlighting the importance for nurses and health care workers to educate patients about vaccines.
* Grayson Arndt, Marion, Narrativism: A Framework for Legalized Aggression and Lawfare, introducing narrativism, a theoretical paradigm that reconceptualizes international relations as structured by strategic narratives that legitimize stage aggression through law, identity, and institutional design.
* Annastasia Hutchings, Plymouth, and Kaitline Martin, Kokomo, Health Impacts of a Short-term Pesco-Vegetarian Diet Intervention Supplemented with Ginger and Curcumin on the Human Participants, investigating the effects of a pesco-vegetarian-based diet with the additional consumption of ginger and curcumin supplements on free radical scavenging capacity of blood.
* Annalissa Brown, Cicero, Understanding Herd Immunity: How Immunization Schedules Protect Public Health and the Ethical Impact of Nursing Practice in Administering Vaccines, focuses on evidence-based research which will illuminate how vaccines contribute to public health and achieving herd immunity.
* Dalen Bushong, Peru, and Jacob Pierson, Bunker Hill, Depolymerization of Nylon-11 By Bacterial Extracellular Proteases, details attempt to reduce the crystalline structure of nylon via a variety of physicochemical treatments to prevent Nylon-11 waste from being released into the environment.
* Raileigh Gerlach, Battle Ground, Birth Order and Personality, studying the interactions between birth order, the Big Five personality traits, and the parenting style of the participants' primary caregiver when they were younger.
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Original text here: https://news.iu.edu/kokomo/live/news/48062-more-than-200-students-present-scholarly-work-at
Georgia Southern Faculty Featured on Prestigious Top 2% of Scientists List
STATESBORO, Georgia, Nov. 25 -- Georgia Southern University issued the following news release:
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Georgia Southern faculty featured on prestigious top 2% of scientists list
Twelve outstanding active faculty members from Georgia Southern University were featured on Stanford and Elsevier's 2025 list of the top 2% of scientists in the world. This annual list features scientists whose work has had the highest citation count and citation impact in their fields within a given year.
This year's Georgia Southern honorees represent a diverse range of disciplines, from physics and chemistry to epidemiology
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STATESBORO, Georgia, Nov. 25 -- Georgia Southern University issued the following news release:
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Georgia Southern faculty featured on prestigious top 2% of scientists list
Twelve outstanding active faculty members from Georgia Southern University were featured on Stanford and Elsevier's 2025 list of the top 2% of scientists in the world. This annual list features scientists whose work has had the highest citation count and citation impact in their fields within a given year.
This year's Georgia Southern honorees represent a diverse range of disciplines, from physics and chemistry to epidemiologyand business. Ten of the 12 faculty members were also featured on last year's list.
Vice President for Research and Economic Development David Weindorf, Ph.D, P.G., is among them and takes pride in seeing so many familiar names, and a couple of new ones, included.
"Seeing names from so many different disciplines, both old and new, speaks volumes about our growth and consistency," said Weindorf. "I'm so thankful for these faculty who relentlessly pursue excellence and truly embody growing ourselves to grow others in research."
The complete list of Georgia Southern faculty featured includes the following:
Xiao-jun Wang, Ph.D., professor of physics, College of Science and Mathematics
"My work centers on creating advanced luminescent materials for energy-efficient lighting and sensing technologies," Wang explained. "What drives me is the excitement of uncovering how materials behave -- and finding logical, scientific explanations for what we observe." He added that he has always loved Albert Einstein's quote, "The most incomprehensible thing about the world is that it is comprehensible." Read more about Wang's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/xiao-jun-wang-2).
Arda Yenipazarli, Ph.D., professor of operations management, Parker College of Business
"I've always been drawn to complex, high-stakes corporate scenarios where decisions leave lasting societal and environmental footprints," said Yenipazarli. "My research helps firms make more strategic, profitable and responsible choices about their supply chains and operations-in environments defined by volatility, competition, regulation and shifting market forces. I believe that thoughtful, analytically grounded research can empower better decisions and drive meaningful, lasting impact-for business, for society, and for the planet." Read more about Yenipazarli's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/arda-yenipazarli-2).
Allen Amason, Ph.D., professor of management, Parker College of Business
"I study the connections between strategy, strategic decision-making and organizational performance," Amason explained. "I wanted to understand why some firms succeed where others do not. My motivation remains the same today as it was then -- to help organizations and managers perform better." Read more about Amason's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/allen-c-amason-2).
Isaac Chun-Hai Fung, Ph.D., professor of epidemiology, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health
"It is my great privilege to work with a network of excellent students, colleagues and collaborators," Fung said. "We study how to mitigate the impact of epidemics on human societies and harness the advances of digital technologies to promote health." Read more about Fung's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/isaac-fung-2).
Lance Durden, Ph.D, professor emeritus of biology, College of Science and Mathematics
"I study ectoparasites (lice, fleas, ticks and parasitic mites) of humans and animals, including species of medical and veterinary importance and the pathogens they can transmit," said Durden. "I have authored about 400 peer-reviewed publications, including eight books or monographs and 29 invited book chapters. I am currently working on the 4th edition of a widely used textbook in North America and Europe entitled Medical and Veterinary Entomology and am driven by a fascination with the natural world and a desire to improve human and animal health." Read more about Durden's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/lance-a-durden/).
David C. Weindorf, Ph.D, P.G., vice president for research and economic development, College of Science and Mathematics
"I study and classify soils to better understand how we can use and protect them," Weindorf said. " My research is mostly centered on applications for proximal and remote sensors for soil characterization; I've been involved in everything from taxonomic soil classification to environmental soil science and disaster response work, ensuring that soil is safe and healthy. What drives me is helping people help the land -- because a healthy world starts with healthy soil." Read more about Weindorf's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/david-weindorf).
Jose A. Jimenez, Ph.D., assistant professor of physical and materials chemistry, College of Science and Mathematics
"My research interests are mainly in glass science, nanomaterials, optical materials, thin films, and energy-relevant materials such as solar cells and Li-ion batteries", Jimenez noted. "I'm passionate about learning through experimentation and gaining insights into the physical principles that explain material properties." Read more about Jimenez's Research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/jos%C3%A9-a-jim%C3%A9nez-2/).
Masoud Davari, Ph.D., interim associate dean for research and professor of electrical and computer engineering, Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing
"I'm passionate about innovating power and energy systems," Davari shared. "My research focuses on designing control methods based on artificial intelligence and reinforcement learning to enhance performance under challenging conditions and on developing resilient-by-design systems to strengthen cybersecurity. The National Science Foundation has continuously supported this research through multiple projects totaling nearly $1.2 million." Read more about Davari's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/masoud-davari-2).
Haijun Gong, Ph.D., associate professor of manufacturing engineering, Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing
"My research focuses on 3D printing metals and high-performance polymers for lightweight design and optimization," Gong said. "I'm passionate about advancing cost-effective additive manufacturing technologies and materials that drive the next generation of advanced manufacturing." Read more about Gong's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/haijun-gong-2).
Dmitry Apanaskevich, Ph.D., professor of biology and entomology, College of Science and Mathematics
"My major research interest is the systematics of hard ticks (family Ixodidae)," Apanaskevich said. "This includes their taxonomy, phylogenetics, host-parasite relationships and geographic distribution. I love discovering new species and solving complex, often confusing questions along the way. That's what drives my passion." Read more about Apanaskevich's research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/dmitry-apanaskevich).
Bryan Riemann, Ph.D., professor of sports medicine, Waters College of Health Professions
"My research examines how biomechanical and neuromuscular factors shape human movement, with the goal of improving performance and developing more effective approaches for injury prevention and rehabilitation," Riemann explained. "This work spans diverse populations, including both trained and untrained, across the lifespan." Read more about Riemann's Research (https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/bryan-riemann).
The late James E. Keirans, Ph.D, former curator of the U.S. National Tick Collection at the Institute of Arthropodology and Parasitology at Georgia Southern University
Keirans earned his doctorate in medical entomology in 1966 and devoted his career to the study of ectoparasites. He became one of the world's foremost experts on tick biology and taxonomy. In 1990, he became curator of the U.S. National Tick Collection at the then newly formed Institute of Arthropodology and Parasitology at Georgia Southern in Statesboro. He retired in 2005. Read more about Keirans here (https://www.newportnewstimes.com/obituaries/james-e-keirans/article_82b15660-057f-11ee-b64a-f3668352c13e.html).
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Original text here: https://www.georgiasouthern.edu/2025/11/24/georgia-southern-faculty-featured-on-prestigious-top-2-of-scientists-list
Faculty Excellence Draws Nation's Chief Nurse to Rutgers
NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, Nov. 25 -- Rutgers University issued the following news:
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Faculty Excellence Draws Nation's Chief Nurse to Rutgers
When Rear Admiral Jennifer Moon sat among hundreds of inductees at the American Academy of Nursing conference last month, she noticed the remarkable number of Academy fellows who were Rutgers faculty.
"It really stood out how well Rutgers was represented," said Moon, chief nurse officer for the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS). "I made a mental note: I gotta go visit."
Last week, Moon made good on that promise to herself, spending
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NEW BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, Nov. 25 -- Rutgers University issued the following news:
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Faculty Excellence Draws Nation's Chief Nurse to Rutgers
When Rear Admiral Jennifer Moon sat among hundreds of inductees at the American Academy of Nursing conference last month, she noticed the remarkable number of Academy fellows who were Rutgers faculty.
"It really stood out how well Rutgers was represented," said Moon, chief nurse officer for the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS). "I made a mental note: I gotta go visit."
Last week, Moon made good on that promise to herself, spendingWednesday morning at the Rutgers University-Newark campus meeting with administrators and students from both the School of Nursing and the School of Social Work.
The visit served a dual purpose: recognizing Rutgers' standing in health professions education while recruiting students for a federal service that most Americans - including nearly all the students Moon addressed - have never heard of.
The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps is one of the nation's eight uniformed services, tracing its roots to 1798 when it operated marine hospitals at ports to treat sailors returning with infectious diseases. Today, its roughly 5,000 nurses, social workers, physicians, dentists, pharmacists, therapists, and other health professionals serve in multiple federal agencies, from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to the Indian Health Service to the Department of the Interior.
Despite its 200-year history and critical mission, the service faces a significant challenge: it's authorized for 6,500 officers but currently operates at about 5,000, leaving roughly 1,500 positions unfilled at a time when public health threats are increasingly complex.
"We really need social workers. We really need nurses," Moon told the group, emphasizing that filling these gaps is essential for protecting the nation's health.
The service operates much like the military: members commit to serve, hold sea service ranks, wear uniforms, and can be deployed to respond to hurricanes, disease outbreaks or other public health emergencies.
"The opportunities that we have, the impact that we have, the influence that we have - public health nursing is much broader and more varied than typical clinical nursing," Moon said.
Officers can work on infectious disease surveillance one year and health policy implementation the next, building careers that span local clinics to national leadership.
Moon highlighted a less obvious advantage when she spoke to nursing and social work students: career continuity.
"When you're in the uniform service, your experience and rank carry weight," she said. "When transferring to a new position within the federal government, you're not starting over as far as respect or your influence or your impact."
Moon addressed 81 second-degree undergraduate nursing students and 26 graduate social work students during her visit. She also met with school leadership during a reception where she discussed potential partnerships and student opportunities within the federal public health system.
"This is an opportunity for students to really see in action what they've been learning in the classroom," said Antoinette Farmer, interim associate dean for academic affairs at the School of Social Work. "Students may not have even thought of using their skills at a national or global level."
Angela Starkweather, dean of the School of Nursing, said Moon's visit opens possibilities for internships and connections to New Jersey's emergency response systems, extending the schools' impact beyond typical healthcare settings.
It was also a valuable testimony to the quality of the program they attend.
"This was a call from her office because she had been so impressed with our faculty and students," Starkweather said. "For our students, it is a chance to see that the work they are doing here is on the radar of people who are shaping national health policy."
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Original text here: https://www.rutgers.edu/news/faculty-excellence-draws-nations-chief-nurse-rutgers
