Education (Colleges & Universities)
Here's a look at documents from public, private and community colleges in the U.S.
Featured Stories
University of Pennsylvania: Seven Things to Know About 'Common Sense'
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Jan. 30 -- The University of Pennsylvania issued the following news:
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Seven things to know about 'Common Sense'
Penn experts share insights into Thomas Paine's influential written work, 250 years after its publication.
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On Jan. 10, 1776, revolutionary writer and intellectual Thomas Paine anonymously published a small pamphlet that would end up having a huge impact on the colonial world. The publication, titled "Common Sense," was widely read across the future United States, and continues to influence many thinkers and activists today. The Penn Libraries'
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PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Jan. 30 -- The University of Pennsylvania issued the following news:
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Seven things to know about 'Common Sense'
Penn experts share insights into Thomas Paine's influential written work, 250 years after its publication.
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On Jan. 10, 1776, revolutionary writer and intellectual Thomas Paine anonymously published a small pamphlet that would end up having a huge impact on the colonial world. The publication, titled "Common Sense," was widely read across the future United States, and continues to influence many thinkers and activists today. The Penn Libraries'Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts holds several copies.
The importance of Paine's seminal work was the topic of a panel discussion convened by Penn Alumni Lifelong Learning and co-sponsored by the Penn Libraries and the School of Arts & Sciences. The panel of Penn experts consisted of:
* Moderator John H. Pollack, curator of research services at the Kislak Center for Special Collections
* Emma Hart, director of the McNeil Center for Early American Studies and Roy F. and Jeannette P. Nichols Chair of American History, School of Arts & Sciences
* Sophia Rosenfeld, Walter H. Annenberg Professor of History, School of Arts & Sciences
* Duncan Watts, Stevens University Professor and Penn Integrates Knowledge Professor, with appointments in the Annenberg School, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the Wharton School and a secondary appointment in the School of Arts & Sciences
Here are seven things to know about "Common Sense":
Who was Thomas Paine?
Hart spoke about Paine's background. In England, Paine had worked as a corset-maker, a privateer, and a tax officer, and was a member of a debating club, Hart said.
Paine was also a writer, eventually receiving backing from the Duke of Richmond to promote broader suffrage, she said. By the time he arrived in the American colonies, "it's clear that Paine already had the networks and the contacts.
Paine was already recognized for having the ability to write really well and also to be willing to write radical material that called for things like complete social equality."
How did Paine come to Philadelphia?
Paine was invited by Benjamin Franklin and arrived in Philadelphia in November 1774, Hart said. The First Continental Congress had just finished sitting, and it would return in 1775.
"Philadelphia is now established not only as the center of Pennsylvania politics but also as the center of national politics," Hart said. Paine "had the fervor. He had the political principles. And coming to Philadelphia, I think he must have really felt like he was home."
What was Paine's life like here?
Pollack mentioned Paine's next-door neighbor in Philadelphia, a printer named Robert Aitken. He wrote articles for Aitken's magazine, Pollack said. Paine was part of a circle of "Philadelphia radicals," including teachers, artists, doctors, and workers, with several having connections to the school that would become Penn: David Rittenhouse, James Cannon, and Benjamin Rush.
What was 'Common Sense'?
"Common Sense" was a small pamphlet, not really a book, Pollack said. And Paine's ideas spread with editions printed up and down the colonies and in Dublin and in London, Rosenfeld said, noting they were translated into German and Spanish.
The pamphlet quickly grew in popularity. Pollack said that Paine claimed that within a few months it had printed 120,000 copies. "Numbers like that are pretty hard to verify," he said, "But the explosive popularity of this little pamphlet is not. Its reach was extraordinary."
Broadly, what is the idea of common sense?
Commenting on the concept of common sense, Watts said that people aren't born with it. "You learn it, usually from your parents and other people around you. And the way you learn it is just by being told things over and over again," he said.
In a 2023 paper, Watts and colleague Mark Whiting looked at how "commonsensical" 2,000 people rated certain claims to be. They found that "common sense varies a lot across different types of claims," he said, but the same was not true across different groups of people. Pointing to his work on the topic, Watts said, "Everybody roughly has about the same amount of common sense."
What was Paine's lasting impact?
Rosenfeld noted that Paine introduced two ideas that would have a tremendous effect on American politics: First, independence from the British Empire, and second, that an independent nation could be ruled by the people.
"He starts to suggest that self-evidence is a good basis for self-rule," Rosenfeld said. "He likes to say repeatedly that ordinary language needs to be turned upside down." For example, Rosenfeld said, calling someone a "king" is just an empty signifier with no meaning.
How did Paine's own beliefs evolve?
Eventually, Hart said, Paine alienated many of the people he had known during the American Revolution, including George Washington. She pointed to Paine having written "a couple of really nasty letters" to Washington, with lines such as: "The world will be puzzled to decide whether you are an apostate or an imposter, whether you have abandoned good principles or whether you every had any."
She also noted that Paine later expressed the belief that republican experiments had failed. Ultimately, said Hart, Paine thought there was too much of a wealth gap for it to work. Paine believed "that wealth needed to be redistributed equally if anything was going to succeed."
The forum was part of the America 250 at Penn event calendar, continuing throughout the year. A video of the event, which was offered both in-person and via Zoom, is available via Penn Giving.
Jan. 9, 1776
The date that "Common Sense" was published in Philadelphia by printer Robert Bell.
120,000
The number of copies Paine claimed to have been printed across the 13 colonies within a few months, Pollack said. With an estimated 2.5 million people, that works out to one copy for every 20 people.
47
The number of pages in the original pamphlet.
1780
The year that Penn gave Paine an honorary master's degree.
- Dan Shortridge, News Officer, 445/213-1042, danshort@upenn.edu
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Original text here: https://penntoday.upenn.edu/news/seven-things-know-about-common-sense-thomas-paine-emma-hart-sophia-rosenfeld-duncan-watts-john-pollack-kislak-center-penn-libraries
University of Lynchburg: Office of Belonging Receives Grant for Food Pantry
LYNCHBURG, Virginia, Jan. 30 -- The University of Lynchburg issued the following news:
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Office of Belonging receives grant for food pantry
The University of Lynchburg's Office of Belonging has received a $5,962 grant for its food pantry. The Hunger-Free Campus Grant, administered by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, was awarded earlier this month.
According to the Rev. Dr. Nathan Albert, Lynchburg's assistant vice president of belonging and Elisha K. Bennett University Chaplain, the funds will be used to purchase shelving, signage, and possibly a refrigerator, and to
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LYNCHBURG, Virginia, Jan. 30 -- The University of Lynchburg issued the following news:
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Office of Belonging receives grant for food pantry
The University of Lynchburg's Office of Belonging has received a $5,962 grant for its food pantry. The Hunger-Free Campus Grant, administered by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, was awarded earlier this month.
According to the Rev. Dr. Nathan Albert, Lynchburg's assistant vice president of belonging and Elisha K. Bennett University Chaplain, the funds will be used to purchase shelving, signage, and possibly a refrigerator, and toinstall card access so students can visit the space at their convenience.
Any remaining funds will be used to keep the pantry stocked.
The University's food pantry is part of Dell Thrift, a student-managed shop located on the first floor of Drysdale Student Center. The shop provides seasonal clothing, nonperishable food, and personal hygiene items at no cost to students and other members of the University community.
"I want to acknowledge the work of our students, who have reopened the new location on Dell Thrift this year and manage the space," said Tasha Gillum, Lynchburg's assistant director of service learning and civil engagement.
"Various student volunteers help support the open hours and work behind the scenes to process donations and food pantry pickup."
She specifically mentioned Sarah Mills '29 and Shay Conrow '29. Both first-year students participate in Lynchburg's Bonner Leader Program, a partnership with the Bonner Foundation through which students serve in work-study roles at local nonprofits, schools, or agencies.
Mills manages Dell Thrift's operations and Conrow handles social media and marketing efforts.
The grant was written by Albert, Gillum, and Lynchburg's Associate University Chaplain Jer Bryant '03, '10 MA. In their grant application, the team wrote that following "major restructuring and reorganization" at the University in 2024, there had "been a greater push to reinstate Dell Thrift," which was previously located in Hundley Hall.
Dell Thrift was moved to Drysdale, which they described as a "larger, more centralized, and student-facing location," and the ultimate goal was to make it "the prime food pantry location."
While visits to Dell Thrift are not currently tracked, the shop's impact is no secret. "Use of the pantry is anonymous; name and the amount of food taken are not recorded," Gillum said. "This resource exists to support our campus community in a convenient and dignified way.
"Community members have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in the space. Some visit Dell Thrift for the opportunity to thrift, support sustainability, or browse for food and clothing. Others visit because access to essentials is helpful at that moment.
"What makes this space special is that it's open to everyone. There's no distinction or status attached to how or why someone uses it. It's a shared community resource, and everyone is welcome to visit Dell Thrift."
Pantry donations come from off and on campus.
"We receive ... donations from Park View Community Mission's Food for Thought program," Gillum said, referring to a nonprofit located not far from the University. "Students pick up pantry staples each Thursday to resupply our pantry shelves.
"We also receive donations from community events, like the recent Staff Holiday Mixer, where individuals were encouraged to bring pantry items. And individuals have signed up to refill pantries throughout the years. It's been a community effort."
Dell Thrift is currently seeking donations of the following items: peanut butter, canned meat and beans with pull tops, cereal and rice, microwavable meals, cheese and peanut butter crackers, hygiene supplies, and clothing, including professional clothing and winter items like sweaters, jackets, long-sleeved shirts, hats, gloves, and scarves.
Donations to Dell Thrift's pantry can be arranged via direct messaging on Instagram -- ul_dell_thrift -- or by emailing dellthriftandpantry@lynchburg.edu.
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Original text here: https://www.lynchburg.edu/office-of-belonging-receives-grant-for-food-pantry/
UMass-Amherst: Baoshan Xing Research on How Microplastics Inhibit Plant Growth Named 'Best Paper' Runner-Up
AMHERST, Massachusetts, Jan. 30 (TNSjou) -- The University of Massachusetts issued the following news:
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Baoshan Xing Research on How Microplastics Inhibit Plant Growth Named 'Best Paper' Runner-Up
Research from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture on how microplastics inhibit crop growth was recently recognized by Environmental Science & Technology as a runner-up for the publication's 2024 Best Paper Awards.
Stockbridge Director and University Distinguished Professor Baoshan Xing co-authored the paper, "Toxicity Mechanisms of Nanoplastics on Crop Growth, Interference of Phyllosphere Microbes,
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AMHERST, Massachusetts, Jan. 30 (TNSjou) -- The University of Massachusetts issued the following news:
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Baoshan Xing Research on How Microplastics Inhibit Plant Growth Named 'Best Paper' Runner-Up
Research from the Stockbridge School of Agriculture on how microplastics inhibit crop growth was recently recognized by Environmental Science & Technology as a runner-up for the publication's 2024 Best Paper Awards.
Stockbridge Director and University Distinguished Professor Baoshan Xing co-authored the paper, "Toxicity Mechanisms of Nanoplastics on Crop Growth, Interference of Phyllosphere Microbes,and Evidence for Foliar Penetration and Translocation," (https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.3c03649) with an international cast of colleagues. The paper details how the researchers found that positively charged nanoplastics caused more pronounced physiological effects, including growth inhibition, increased antioxidant enzyme activity and altered gene expression and metabolite composition in plants.
Microplastics even significantly changed the structure and composition of the phyllosphere microbial community. Positively charged nanoplastics showed greater ability to penetrate leaves and translocate to plant roots.
"Environmental, health and climate science must be objective and resilient," says the award notification. "Science has the power to shape policy, protect human health and the environment, and drive real-world solutions. The work we recognize today does just that."
This latest award for Xing's research recognizes its "excellence in rigor, novelty, and impact... offering new insights and practical pathways across a range of urgent topics: climate change, air and water quality, chemical fate and transport, and sustainable technologies."
More information about the awards and a complete list of winners and runners-up can be found on the Environmental Science & Technology website (http://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.5c15123).
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Original text here: https://www.umass.edu/news/article/baoshan-xing-research-how-microplastics-inhibit-plant-growth-named-best-paper-runner
Solihull College & University Centre Launches Industry-led AI Automation Course
SOLIHULL, England, Jan. 30 -- Solihull College and University Centre issued the following news:
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College launches industry-led AI automation course
Solihull College & University Centre has partnered with London-based AI consultancy 'Block Bridge AI' to deliver a new industry-led training programme focused on AI automation and digital transformation.
The partnership brings together academic expertise and real-world industry practice, ensuring learners gain practical, job-ready skills for the rapidly growing digital economy.
The course is delivered in a purpose-built learning environment
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SOLIHULL, England, Jan. 30 -- Solihull College and University Centre issued the following news:
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College launches industry-led AI automation course
Solihull College & University Centre has partnered with London-based AI consultancy 'Block Bridge AI' to deliver a new industry-led training programme focused on AI automation and digital transformation.
The partnership brings together academic expertise and real-world industry practice, ensuring learners gain practical, job-ready skills for the rapidly growing digital economy.
The course is delivered in a purpose-built learning environmentat the College's Blossomfield Campus, featuring modern workstations with high-performance computing systems designed to support AI and automation software. Learners train in a professional setting that mirrors real technology workplaces, enabling hands-on experience with industry tools.
What makes the programme distinctive is the direct involvement of Block Bridge AI in designing the curriculum. Led by CEO Imran Haq, the consultancy has developed all course materials and provides bespoke masterclasses throughout the programme, ensuring learners benefit from current industry insight and employer-led content.
The intensive five-day course introduces learners to automation workflows, system integrations and AI-powered solutions. Students build practical projects as they progress, learning how to design, test and optimise automated systems used in real business environments. No prior programming experience is required, making the programme accessible to adults looking to upskill or change career direction.
Assessment is continuous and practical, with learners producing working automation workflows and a final project to demonstrate their new skills. On completion, participants receive a Certificate of Completion and a portfolio of projects to support progression into employment.
The programme is delivered through a blended model, combining face-to-face teaching with remote learning to support adult learners balancing study with work and family commitments. Post-course support is also provided to help learners apply their skills beyond the classroom.
Graduates of the programme can progress into roles such as Automation Specialist, AI Implementation Technician, Business Process Automation Consultant or Digital Transformation Coordinator. The skills developed have immediate workplace applications, including automating business processes, creating AI-powered tools and integrating digital systems.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment between Solihull College & University Centre and Block Bridge AI to support regional workforce development and address skills shortages in emerging technologies.
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Original text here: https://www.solihull.ac.uk/news/college-launches-industry-led-ai-automation-course/
National Science Foundation's EPIIC Grant Awarded to Stanislaus State Faculty Team
TURLOCK, California, Jan. 30 -- California State University Stanislaus issued the following news:
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National Science Foundation's EPIIC Grant Awarded to Stanislaus State Faculty Team
A group of Stanislaus State faculty members are helping lay the foundation for a regional pathway that will advance the circular bioeconomy in the Central Valley, and the recent awarding of a $400,000 grant has increased their momentum.
The National Science Foundation's (NSF) Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) grant will help build the University's capacity for innovation by establishing
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TURLOCK, California, Jan. 30 -- California State University Stanislaus issued the following news:
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National Science Foundation's EPIIC Grant Awarded to Stanislaus State Faculty Team
A group of Stanislaus State faculty members are helping lay the foundation for a regional pathway that will advance the circular bioeconomy in the Central Valley, and the recent awarding of a $400,000 grant has increased their momentum.
The National Science Foundation's (NSF) Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity (EPIIC) grant will help build the University's capacity for innovation by establishinga team of consultants and coordinators to strengthen external partnerships and expand learning and career opportunities for students.
The grant was awarded to the team of Professor of Art Jake Weigel, Associate Professor of Teacher Education Adam Devitt, Dean of Professional and Global Education Kari Knutson Miller and Associate Vice President for Faculty Affairs Kris Roney as part of the North San Joaquin Valley Regional Innovation Translation Ecosystem (NSJV-RITE) project, a collaboration between Stan State and the University of the Pacific to strengthen the region's innovation capacity and economic resilience. Funded by the NSF, this initiative seeks to make the North San Joaquin Valley a dynamic hub for research, entrepreneurship and applied learning by aligning institutional assets with regional industry.
Weigel serves as the NSF EPIIC principal investigator and project coordinator; Devitt and Knutson Miller are co-principal investigators and Roney provides additional support and valuable insight into policy and faculty and research interests.
Weigel described the grant as essential to creating career pathways for students.
"What we're doing with the money from this grant is looking at what Stan State already does in the area of building and sustaining external partnerships, and figuring out what we could do better," Weigel said. "It's ground level, but it's incredibly important in helping determine what policies, staff and administrative support is needed.
"It will also help determine what kind of partnerships we have and can develop, in addition to what workforce readiness is needed and how we can be more responsive as an institution."
The EPIIC grant supports analysis of the University's baseline and identifies opportunities for enhanced partnerships that can provide students with expanded internship, externship and applied research opportunities, greater access to STEM pathways and emerging industries, and ultimately enhanced workforce readiness in high-demand sectors. Additionally, faculty can create clearer support structures for partnerships and new avenues for externally engaged research.
"We need to be looking at what kind of skills industries in the region are looking for from our students, and how we can better support that," Weigel said. "As an institution, how can we build those 21st-century skills and soft skills? What is the region in need of, in terms of sustainable, higher wage jobs that can push this newer industry and bring some more life to the Central Valley?"
By participating in this systematic approach, Stan State can improve its resilient institutional identity tied to regional economic transformation and build stronger multi-campus collaborations and cross-sector alliances, elevating the University's profile as a key contributor to the regional priorities and as a partner of choice for regional development initiatives and a thought leader in university-industry collaboration.
Stan State is one of BEAM Circular's partners, a role that connects the University's academic and research strengths to real-world efforts that promote sustainability and regional prosperity. Through partnerships such as BEAM Circular and North Valley THRIVE, the EPIIC project is helping the University test and strengthen new approaches to external collaboration. While the work is rooted in the region's emerging circular bioeconomy, it is designed to inform a broader framework for partnership development and institutional responsiveness.
In August, the University received a $435,255 grant from BEAM Circular to establish the Centre for Sustainable Biotechnology, a state-of-the-art research and training hub dedicated to advancing workforce development in biotechnology and the circular bioeconomy in Stanislaus County. The University is also a founding member of the Circular Bioeconomy Innovation Collaborative (CBIO Collaborative), a vast network of partners launched with support from the National Science Foundation.
The EPIIC grant will also build a framework that strengthens the University's competitiveness for future federal funding from the NSF.
"We want industries to know that Stanislaus State is looking to respond to their needs, concerns and aspirations," Weigel said. "This is a good way for us to start developing a plan and move forward strategically as an institution."
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Original text here: https://www.csustan.edu/news/laying-foundation-future-innovation
Fairmont State University Announces Efforts to Further Strengthen Leadership in Athletics, Finance, and Academic Affairs
FAIRMONT, West Virginia, Jan. 30 -- Fairmont State University issued the following news:
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Fairmont State University Announces Efforts to Further Strengthen Leadership in Athletics, Finance, and Academic Affairs
Fairmont State University is further strengthening its leadership team enhance operational effectiveness, support long term sustainability, and advance the University's mission.
As part of this effort, the University will promote Greg Bamberger, current Director of Athletics, to the newly established role of Vice President for Athletics. In this newly established executive position,
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FAIRMONT, West Virginia, Jan. 30 -- Fairmont State University issued the following news:
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Fairmont State University Announces Efforts to Further Strengthen Leadership in Athletics, Finance, and Academic Affairs
Fairmont State University is further strengthening its leadership team enhance operational effectiveness, support long term sustainability, and advance the University's mission.
As part of this effort, the University will promote Greg Bamberger, current Director of Athletics, to the newly established role of Vice President for Athletics. In this newly established executive position,Bamberger will oversee implementation planning, long range initiatives, and institutional alignment for Athletics as outlined in the University's 2025-2035 Strategic Vision. He will transition into this new role in July.
"Greg has been an invaluable leader for Fairmont State Athletics," said President Mike Davis. "His strategic insight and relentless dedication have elevated the student athlete experience year after year. As we begin implementing our long range plan for athletics, we need a leader who not only understands where we are but can clearly see where we must go. Greg has proven time and again that he is ready to guide the growth and achievement for Falcon Athletics."
In addition to leading strategic athletics initiatives, Bamberger will support leadership development efforts across campus, including the Fairmont Leadership Institute. The University has initiated the national search for its next Director of Athletics with the posting of the position, aiming to finalize the transition by July 1. The Director of Athletics will continue to oversee day to day operations such as staff and coach supervision, compliance, budgeting, scheduling, and event operations. The position will report directly to the Vice President for Athletics and serve as the University's representative to the Mountain East Conference as well as the NCAA.
Fairmont State is also moving ahead with a national search for a permanent Vice President for Finance and Administration/Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO is responsible for the University's budgeting, long term fiscal strategy, and overall financial stewardship. The position has been held on an interim basis by John Nisbet, since May 2024. A search committee chaired by George Wolf, Vice President of Enrollment Management, has been charged with moving this process forward. The University has also partnered with Academic Search, a mission-driven organization dedicated to expanding leadership capacity at higher education institutions, to support national recruitment efforts.
The CFO search committee also includes Abby Haught, Administration & Finance; Rhonda Kuhn, Administration & Finance; Tim Oxley, Academic Affairs; Mary Sortino, Academic Affairs; Spencer Flanagan, Student Affairs; Ashley Maxey, Human Resources; Shelby Dugas, Athletics; Izzy Simmons, Student Representative; Bob Niichel, Faculty Senate Representative; and Christy Burner, Staff Council Representative. The committee plans to have a permanent hire in place by the start of the fall semester.
"We are committed to smart, sustainable growth," Davis said. "Every decision we make is grounded in long term stewardship of our institution. By reallocating existing funds, we are strategically investing in leadership roles that will strengthen our operations, advance our mission, and position Fairmont State for a stronger financial future. This is about building capacity where it matters most--not adding layers of administration but enhancing our ability to serve students and our region."
Academic Affairs also continues to deepen their bench, with several leadership searches underway. The application period for the Associate Provost for Faculty Affairs closed on December 22. The search committee has completed its preliminary screening and will begin first round interviews shortly, with campus interviews expected approximately two weeks later. Finalists will participate in an open forum for faculty, staff, and students. Additional searches for the Dean of the College of Nursing, the Dean of the College of Business and Aviation, and the Director of Library Services/Ruth Ann Musick Library launched in late January. The Dean of the College of Nursing position is already posted on Fairmont State's job website.
Each of these positions is essential to advancing Fairmont State's vision of being A Great Place to Learn, to Work, and to Call Home. These roles are critical to promoting academic innovation, strengthening support for students and faculty, and preparing the University for continued growth. These leadership positions will help reinforce the University's mission to educate engaged citizens within a community defined by opportunity, growth, and achievement, delivering transformational impact for West Virginia and beyond.
Those interested in applying for any of the open positions mentioned can find them on www.fairmontstatejobs.com once they have been posted.
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Original text here: https://www.fairmontstate.edu/news/2026/01/fairmont-state-university-announces-efforts-further-strengthen-leadership-athletics-finance-academic-affairs.aspx
ESU's Psychology Department Hosts 54th Biannual Research Forum
EAST STROUDSBURG, Pennsylvania, Jan. 30 -- East Stroudsburg University issued the following news release:
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ESU's Psychology Department Hosts 54th Biannual Research Forum
The psychology department at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania hosted the 54th Biannual Research Forum at the end of the fall 2025 semester. The Research Forum was started over 25 years ago by Sussie Eshun, Ph.D., professor of psychology, and Richard Wesp, Ph.D., retired distinguished professor of psychology, as a venue to showcase the outstanding student research being done in the psychology department. It has
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EAST STROUDSBURG, Pennsylvania, Jan. 30 -- East Stroudsburg University issued the following news release:
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ESU's Psychology Department Hosts 54th Biannual Research Forum
The psychology department at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania hosted the 54th Biannual Research Forum at the end of the fall 2025 semester. The Research Forum was started over 25 years ago by Sussie Eshun, Ph.D., professor of psychology, and Richard Wesp, Ph.D., retired distinguished professor of psychology, as a venue to showcase the outstanding student research being done in the psychology department. It hassteadily grown since then and now includes numerous research and internship posters, student award presentations, and honor society inductions.
The encouragement and recognition of student research are central aspects of the Forum. Each semester, selected student researchers give oral presentations discussing their recent empirical research projects. These presentations are similar to those that would be given at a professional conference, in that the students provide detailed accounts of their hypotheses, research methods, data analysis, and conclusions. The two student presenters for the fall 2025 Research Forum were Rhyan Lillman, from Effort, Pa., who recently earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, and presented research conducted with Bonnie Green, Ph.D., professor of psychology, titled, "The Impact of Retroactive and Proactive Interference on Encoding and Retrieval of Paired Words," and Natasha Merchant, a senior psychology major from Bushkill, Pa., who presented research conducted with Jyh-Hann Chang, Ph.D., distinguished professor of psychology, titled, "Using AI in Development and Validation of 2 & 3 Generation Practice Exams for Psychopharmacology Exams for Psychologists (PEP)."
During the Research Forum, the celebration of student excellence also includes the presentation of various awards and honors, including the Drago Family Scholarship Award, the John Kramer Science Award, and student inductions into Psi Chi: The International Honor Society in Psychology. The Drago Family Scholarship Award, given by the family of Anthony Drago, Ed.D., distinguished professor and chair of psychology, is a monetary scholarship awarded each fall to a psychology major who exemplifies academic excellence. The fall 2025 recipient of this award was Victoria Barrios, a senior psychology major from Saylorsburg, Pa.
As the day's celebration of student excellence continued, those psychology undergraduates who have met rigorous academic achievement standards were formally inducted into Psi Chi. Psi Chi holds the distinction of being the largest student psychological organization in the world, having over 900,000 lifetime members. Psi Chi's mission is to promote excellence in scholarship and to advance the science of psychology. The ESU chapter was founded in 1980 and since that time, hundreds of students have become members of this prestigious organization. The ESU Chapter of Psi Chi, along with its counterpart, The Psychology Association, a general membership student organization for anyone interested in the study of psychology, sponsors educational, charitable, and civic programs, which are of value to the professional discipline, as well as to the local community. Deena Dailey, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology, and Irina Khusid, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology, are the faculty advisors for these organizations. During the fall 2025 Research Forum, nineteen undergraduate students were inducted into Psi Chi: Isabella Anderson, a senior criminal justice major from Matamoras, Pa.; Akasha Baranello, a senior psychology major from South Orange, N.J.; Victoria Barrios; Gianna Cancel, a senior psychology major from Telford, Pa.; Kendra Curnkey, a junior psychology major from Milford, Pa.; Casey Gemzik, a senior psychology major from Willow Grove, Pa.; Kat Ingle, a sophomore psychology major from Bangor, Pa.; Kayla Irizarry, a senior psychology and marine science double major from Little Ferry, N.J.; Lilianna Kain, a junior psychology major from Broomall, Pa.; Sophia Lowery, a senior psychology major from Perkasie, Pa.; Anaiya McFadden, a junior psychology major from Lewisburg, Pa; Rebecca Moss, a senior psychology major from Tobyhanna, Pa.; Brooke O'Connor, a senior psychology major from West Milford, N.J.; Jocelyn Redcay, a junior psychology major from Lancaster, Pa.; Afzaa Reece, from Brooklyn, N.Y., who recently earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology; Emily Seymour, a junior psychology major from Carbondale, Pa.; Estella Shaheid, a senior psychology major from East Stroudsburg, Pa.; Katiera Smith, from Philadelphia, Pa., who recently earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology and criminal justice; and Taniese Washington, a senior psychology major from New York, N.Y.
After the formal student presentations, awards, and inductions were completed, students and faculty reconvened in the hallway and in rooms 116 and 118 of Stroud Hall to view additional research studies presented in poster format by numerous students enrolled in various research-oriented psychology courses. Informational posters presented by students who recently completed internships were also presented. Any students who prepared research posters were eligible to submit their projects for consideration of the John Kramer Science Award. This award, given in memory of former student, John Kramer, who graduated from the ESU psychology program in 2002, recognizes the most outstanding student research submission of the Forum. The awardees of the fall 2025 John Kramer Science Award for their study titled, "Cell Phone Use and Lecture Retention in College Students," were: Brooke O'Connor; Emily Thomas, a junior psychology major from Quakertown, Pa.; Riley Trentowski, a sophomore psychology major from Rocky Point, NY; Jet Vermeulen, a junior psychology major from Arnhem, Netherlands; and Josepha York, a senior psychology major from Brodheadsville, Pa.
For more information, contact Dr. Drago at tdrago@esu.edu.
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Original text here: https://quantum.esu.edu/insider/esus-psychology-department-hosts-54th-biannual-research-forum/
