2025 Capstone

Amelie Yanes Urrutia

Project Supervisor: Dr. Rebecca Haberman

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Biology

Project Title: The Effect of Heat Shock Protein, Sis1, on Matrin-3 Toxicity in a Yeast Model of ALS

Abstract: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a rare neurodegenerative disease that causes the death of motor neurons, leading to a loss of motor function, paralysis, and eventually death. The disease progresses through a variety of mechanisms involving over 40 RNA- and DNA-binding proteins, making early treatment especially difficult. However, if one treatment were able to target multiple mechanisms for ALS progression, the disease could be treated quickly, increasing neuronal survival in ALS patients and prolonging their life expectancy. Heat-shock protein Sis1 has previously been shown to alter the toxicity of mutated TDP-43, a major pathological protein in ALS patients; these findings implicate Sis1 as a potentially highly effective treatment for ALS, although the mechanism by which the molecular chaperone acts is currently unknown. This research tests the hypothesis that Sis1 is able to decrease the toxicity of other proteins in models of ALS. Using a yeast model of ALS exhibiting Matrin-3 toxicity, we evaluate the potential for expression of the heat-shock protein Sis1 to reduce the toxicity of Matrin-3 expression. This research will contribute to the existing literature examining the effects of heat-shock proteins on DNA- and RNA-binding protein toxicity in yeast models of ALS.

Biography: Amelie Yanes is a biology major (biomedical emphasis) and music minor (performance emphasis) from Sterling, Virginia. After graduation, Amelie plans to pursue a career in microbiology. She hopes to conduct research that directly impacts healthcare.

Jordan Carroll

Project Supervisor: Dr. Paul Callo

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Biology

Project Title: Acute Stress-Induced Changes Between Adolescent Male and Female Long Evans Rats

Abstract: Stress, the physiological response to conflict, stimulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), increasing the glucocorticoid concentration within the bloodstream. An individual’s sex can impact the amount of glucocorticoid produced, and previous research indicates that female rodents display a higher concentration of corticosterone, the glucocorticoid that responds to stressful stimuli. However, research on whether there is a connection between changes in corticosterone and behavioral responses to stress is limited. This study was conducted to determine if there was a connection between behavioral and physiological responses to stress in three-month-old male and female Long Evans Rats. To determine if there was a significant difference in the behavioral and physiological between the sexes and to determine if changes in behavior were consistent with changes in corticosterone, exploratory rearing behaviors and corticosterone concentrations were assessed. The total duration and number of exploratory rearing behaviors, a behavioral response to stress where rodents stand on their hind limbs with or without head movement, was observed. There were no significant differences in the total duration and number of exploratory rearing behaviors between the sexes. There was no significant difference between the sexes regarding corticosterone concentration. There was a significant positive correlation between the number of exploratory rearing behaviors and corticosterone concentration, and there was no relationship between the total time of rearing behaviors and corticosterone.

Biography: Jordan Carroll is a biology and psychology major from Yorktown, Virginia. She has previously worked as a tutor at Mary Baldwin and is currently a peer mentor for freshmen entering the women’s college. Jordan was accepted into a Master’s program in psychology and will eventually earn a Ph.D. in clinical neuropsychology.

Lauren Byrnes

Project Supervisor: Dr. Maria Craig

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Chemistry

Project Title: Effects of Lipid Raft Depleters on LL-37 Uptake into Human Monocytes

Abstract: LL-37 is a peptide of innate immunity that displays antimicrobial properties and that shows activity in some immune responses. As part of its role in innate immunity, LL-37 forms complexes with extracellular DNA and carries it across host cell membranes, alerting the immune system to pathogens but also contributing to immune conditions like psoriasis, cystic fibrosis, and lupus erythematosus. The exact mechanism for how LL-37/DNA complexes cross membranes is not fully known, but there is evidence that LL-37 is associated with lipid raft regions. These are membrane microdomains that have higher concentrations of cholesterol and sphingolipids, and they are more tightly packed and less fluid than non-raft regions. In this study, we investigate the effects of simvastatin and myriocin, which inhibit cholesterol and sphingolipid synthesis, respectively, on the uptake of LL-37/DNA complexes by a human monocytic cell line (THP-1). Our results indicate that inhibition of cholesterol and sphingolipid synthesis at high concentrations and the combination of both at low concentrations block LL-37 uptake, suggesting that LL-37 endocytosis is associated with the properties of raft regions as opposed to non-raft regions.

Biography: Lauren Byrnes is a biochemistry major from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She has done biomedical research at the University of Virginia, and after graduation she plans on continuing with similar research before entering a Ph.D. program.

Ada Bozikov

Project Supervisor: Dr. Rebecca Haberman

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Biology

Project Title: Potential for MIG6 as an Inhibitor of EGFR/HER2 Resistance in HER2+ Breast Cancer

Abstract: Breast cancer is currently the most common type of cancer in the United States and the fourth most deadly. One of the most aggressive types of breast cancer, characterized by high mortality, recurrence, and resistance rates, is HER2 overexpressing (HER2+) breast cancer. However, targeting HER2 in treatments has been difficult due to its mechanism of action, namely its ligand-free partnering up with other like receptors (dimerization). Effective therapies exist today that block dimerization sites (Trastuzumab), but rapid genetic mutation frequently leads to resistance against these treatments. HER2 dimerization with other partners, such as EGFR, is a potential mechanism of resistance. This study intends to test if inhibiting EGFR via overexpression of a naturally occurring inhibitor in human cells (MIG6) can slow Trastuzumab-resistant HER2+ cell growth. MIG6 will be overexpressed through a mammalian expression vector coexpressing GFP as a marker. An empty vector (lacking MIG6) will be used as a control to measure transfection efficiency. Gene cloning through PCR and insertion into the vector through a double digest is underway. After successful vector transfection into the HER2+ cells (JIMT-1, DSMZ – ACC 589), cell growth and migration will be measured through cell counts and scratch assays to assess the effects of MIG6. If MIG6 acts as observed by promoting the degradation of EGFR along with its partner (HER2), cell migration and growth are expected to be decreased in MIG6-transformed cells compared to the control cells.

Biography: Ada Bozikov is a biology major from Denver, Colorado, although she sucks at skiing and snowboarding. She plans to pursue a master’s in biotechnology at Berkeley after graduating and then work in Silicon Valley.

Gretchen Lutz

Project Supervisor: Dr. Rebecca Haberman

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Biology

Project Title: Implications of the Cerebellar Posterior Lobe Volume and Activation on Memory Performance

Abstract: Alzheimer’s is a memory disorder that, despite being prevalent and having debilitating effects on identity, currently lacks a cure. A significant reason for its lack of effective treatment is that the full breadth of mechanisms underlying memory remains unknown. The cerebellum, a neuroanatomical region located in the back of the brain, could potentially be one of these unknown memory contributors. Traditionally thought to serve only a motor function, recent studies have redefined its role, highlighting its involvement in higher cognitive processes including memory and emotional regulation. The exploration into the full expanse of the cerebellum’s role is ever-evolving, and despite structural and functional changes being linked to numerous memory disorders and memory-related cognitive domains, its potential contributions to long-term memory are obscure. In particular, the cerebellar vermis, the structure connecting the bilateral cerebellar hemispheres, has demonstrated the most consistent activation across cognitive measures and compelling associations with structural changes in multiple neurodegenerative disorders. This study aims to address this vermis-memory gap by investigating the role of the cerebellar vermis in episodic memory using a well-established rat model. Memory was assessed through a cue test, during which rats were acclimated to a track and subsequently exposed to a cue misalignment to prompt spatial memory retrieval. Following behavioral testing, brain tissue was collected, and c-Fos immunohistochemistry was employed to evaluate neuronal activation in the vermis. Results found that rats with cue misalignment experienced significantly higher vermal activation. By prioritizing neuronal activation over traditional volumetric analyses commonly used in cerebellar studies, this research provides a more direct assessment of the cerebellum’s role in memory. Findings have the potential to enhance scientific understanding of cerebellar involvement in memory-related disorders and inform future therapeutic strategies targeting the cerebellum.

Biography: Gretchen Lutz is a biology major with a biomedical emphasis and a minor in chemistry. Her hometown is Villanova, Pennsylvania. She is an aspiring doctor pursuing volunteer work at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia next year.

Caroline Motley

Project Supervisor: Dr. Laura Showalter

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: Social Science/Political Science

Project Title: 2024 United States Presidential Election Young Voter Analysis

Abstract: The 2024 presidential election was defined by an atypical election cycle. One major party candidate was convicted on thirty-four felony counts and the sitting incumbent left the race at a late stage. This research paper will analyze the campaign strategies used by both the Donald Trump and Kamala Harris campaigns to court the young voter population. Election results, including turnout and partisanship percentages, will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of said strategies. The hypothesis being that the use of social media, campus visits, and the candidate’s approach to salient policy areas will prove successful in gaining support from young voters and raise turnout among this demographic. Conclusions were drawn while taking into account typical theories of political behavior, including those relating to demographic characteristics, institutional influences, and psychological factors. Additionally, the swing of voting blocs between the 2020 and 2024 elections will help expose the effectiveness of campaign strategies. The prediction that voter turnout would rise proved to be false as young voter turnout was down from 2020. There also existed an overall ideological shift toward conservatism amongst the demographic as a whole. Shifts of support in favor of Donald Trump from young men, in particular young white men proved to be a key factor in winning increased support. Further research is needed as the future behavior of the young voter bloc will continue to be influential in presidential election campaigns and processes.

Biography: Caroline Motley is a political science major from Virginia Beach, Virginia. Caroline competes on the MBU Track and Field Team. Next year Caroline will be attending law school in order to pursue a career in public interest, however she has yet decided what school to attend.

Thalía Paiz

Project Supervisor: Paul Deeble

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Biology

Project Title: A Comparison of the Effects of Enzalutamide and HC-1119 on the Proliferation and Migration of Hs578T Cells

Abstract: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with high recurrence, poor prognosis, and limited treatment options due to the absence of estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors. Targeted therapies for TNBC are needed to improve outcomes and reduce the adverse effects of chemotherapy. The androgen receptor (AR), expressed in up to 55% of TNBC cases, represents a promising therapeutic target. Enzalutamide (ENT), a second-generation AR antagonist, reduces proliferation and migration in AR-positive TNBC cell lines. HC-1119, a deuterated form of ENT, shows faster metabolism, higher cytoplasmic concentrations, and fewer central nervous system-related side effects in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients, compared to ENT. Overlapping metabolic and signaling pathways between mCRPC and TNBC indicate these treatments may show similar results in TNBC. Previous research has established a therapeutic concentration of HC-1119 in Hs578T cells; however, no published data exists regarding therapeutic concentrations of ENT in this cell line. This project aims to compare the effects of HC-1119 and ENT on proliferation and migration of Hs578T cells and identify an effective therapeutic concentration for ENT in Hs578T cells. Both treatments are assessed with the addition of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (5 nM) to mimic elevated in-vivo DHT levels as the inhibition of DHT-induced AR nuclear translocation marks a key distinction between first and second-generation AR antagonists. The migration assay data indicate that DHT treatment significantly increases migration compared to the control group and that HC-1119 treatment and 40uM ENT treatment significantly mitigate DHT-induced migration. Treatment with HC1119 and 40uM ENT did not produce significantly different migration results compared with each other. Proliferation studies are in progress. This study highlights the importance of novel AR-targeting strategies in treating TNBC and possibly suggests the broader applicability of HC-1119 in other AR-dependent cancers.

Biography: Thalía Paiz is a biology major with a biomedical emphasis originally from Denver, Colorado. She will be returning to Colorado following graduation where she works in research at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in the Department of Cardiology.

Amiyah McCoy

Project Supervisor: Dr. Maria Craig

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Chemistry

Project Title: Effects of Human Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37 on Prostate Cancer Cell Behavior

Abstract:  LL-37, an antimicrobial peptide, plays a dual role in cancer biology, both promoting and inhibiting tumor growth, making it a compelling target for prostate cancer immunotherapy. This study examines LL-37’s effects on androgen-dependent LNCaP and androgen-independent PC-3 prostate cancer cells. Scratch assays measured migration before and after alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) treatment to assess its impact on cell movement. RT-PCR was used to quantify LL-37 mRNA expression in LNCaP,and PC-3 cells. Findings indicate whether LL-37 aids migration in prostate cancer cells and if targeting LL-37 with A1AT can mitigate these effects. Understanding LL-37’s role in prostate cancer may inform therapeutic strategies to modify the tumor microenvironment and impede cancer progression growth.

Biography: Amiyah Nicole McCoy is a biology major from Lexington, Virginia. She is a volunteer EMT and researcher with a passion for healthcare. After graduation, Amiyah plans to pursue a career as a physician assistant, focusing on primary care or emergency medicine to serve her community.

Sergio McCoy

Project Supervisor: Paul Deeble

Type of Presentation: Poster

Poster Category: STEM/Biology

Project Title: The Effects of Curcumin on Seizures in Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract:  Curcumin has been shown to make mice and rats less vulnerable to seizures. Curcumin’s anti-epileptic effects have not been tested in flies, however. I tested the anticonvulsant effects of curcumin on the “jus” variant of Drosophila melanogaster whose epilepsy closely resembles genetic-based epilepsy in humans. Flies were fed 100 µg and 1 µg of curcumin per gram of fly food. There were also controls that corresponded with their ethanol concentrations. I used a vortex to trigger seizures in the flies and used a camera with HandyAVI to record their seizures or lack thereof. I am still in the process of analyzing the data, but based on experiments done on epileptic mice and rats, as well as experiments that show that curcumin can treat other conditions in Drosophila flies, I hypothesized that curcumin made Drosophila melanogaster less vulnerable to seizures by raising their seizure threshold.

Biography: Sergio McCoy is biology with a biomedical emphasis major who was born in Miami, Florida. She has moved a lot, but currently lives in Stuart’s Draft, Virginia. Although she has enough credits to be considered a senior, she will graduate next year. She plans to enter the workforce right after.

Kelly Cruz

Project Supervisor: Dr. Paige Reed 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Criminal Justice

Project Title: A Matter of Life and Death: Faith-Based Advocacy and Clemency in Death Penalty Reform

Abstract: The internship with Equal Justice USA (EJUSA) explores the intersection of faith and criminal justice reforms that relate to the death penalty, focusing on the faith-based advocacy in the pursuit of having clemency granted to Rocky Myers as a key case study. This experience has expressed how religious communities can draw on moral principles such as forgiveness, redemption, and the sanctity of life, advocating for clemency and promoting systemic changes in capital punishment. Through analysis of Myers’ case, which underscores the potential for mercy within the justice system, this internship provided an opportunity to develop strategies for faith leaders to influence public perception, engage communities, and support a more equitable and compassionate approach to the death penalty. I was able to critically evaluate the role of faith in shaping policies on clemency and capital punishment, using Myers’ case to frame broader calls for abolition or reform. This internship has allowed me to critically evaluate the impact of faith on clemency and capital punishment policies, using the Myers case to frame larger discussions about death penalty reform. It underscores the vital role that faith communities play in driving systemic change, demonstrating how clemency decisions can serve as a motivation for advancing justice and mercy within the broader movement for death penalty reform.

Biography: Kelly Cruz, a criminal justice major with a leadership studies minor from Corsicana, TX, is an intern at EJUSA, focusing on death penalty cases. After graduation, she will attend Advance Camp and commission as a 2nd LT in the Army in August.

Natalie Rader

Project Supervisor: Lora Cantwell 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Social Work

Project Title: Wearing the Weight: Understanding First Responder Culture and Mental Health

Abstract: Using my work and experience while working at Thin Line Wellness and Recovery, this presentation will review the importance and impact of First Responder culture and mental health. The presentation will cover the following topics.

• The impact of a cross-curricular class in social work and criminal justice
• Understanding first responders and the culture
• The stigma of mental health in the first responder community
• What Thin Line Wellness and Recovery is doing and aims to do in the future

This presentation brings attention to what many of us miss. We may view first responders as natural heroes, but they struggle and hurt, too. Society and humans tend to not believe that, though. We believe that they are born to do this and should know that the trauma is “part of the job”. That is not the case, we must first understand the culture of first responders and embrace their way of life to help them through their mental health journey in a way that works for them. First responders often get into this profession because a protective need was not met at some point in their lives. It is now our job to support their mental health journey and give them the proper care and attention they deserve. We must help break the stigma.

Biography: Natalie Rader is a social work major from Augusta County, Va. During her field placement, she worked to understand first responder culture and the stigma around first responder mental heath. After her field hours are complete, she will continue working with Thin Line Wellness and Recovery and aid in the support of first responders.

Alycia Warburton–Glegg

Project Supervisor: Clayton Smith 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Marketing

Project Title: Baldwin Belongs Here: Bridging the Gap between Mary Baldwin and Downtown Staunton

Abstract: Mary Baldwin University (MBU) students often remain disconnected from downtown Staunton, despite its diverse local businesses and unique experiences. Our senior project seeks to bridge this gap by exploring strategies to encourage students to not only visit but engage with the downtown area. Through market research, student surveys, collaboration with local businesses and Downtown Staunton, we will identify key barriers—such as lack of belonging ,perceived relevance and lack of awareness as well as develop targeted marketing solutions. Our project will focus on creating compelling messaging, student-centered events, and strategic partnerships that position downtown Staunton as an accessible and appealing extension of campus life. By implementing these initiatives, we aim to foster a stronger relationship between MBU students and the local community, ultimately benefiting both groups through increased engagement and economic support.

Biography: Alycia Warburton is a Marketing and Communications Major from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She plans on working in mass media strategies and social media marketing after graduation

Madelynn Vinson

Project Supervisor: Clayton Smith 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Marketing

Project Title: Baldwin Belongs Here: Bridging the Gap between Mary Baldwin and Downtown Staunton

Abstract: Mary Baldwin University (MBU) students often remain disconnected from downtown Staunton, despite its diverse local businesses and unique experiences. Our senior project seeks to bridge this gap by exploring strategies to encourage students to not only visit but engage with the downtown area. Through market research, student surveys, collaboration with local businesses and Downtown Staunton, we will identify key barriers—such as lack of belonging ,perceived relevance and lack of awareness as well as develop targeted marketing solutions. Our project will focus on creating compelling messaging, student-centered events, and strategic partnerships that position downtown Staunton as an accessible and appealing extension of campus life. By implementing these initiatives, we aim to foster a stronger relationship between MBU students and the local community, ultimately benefiting both groups through increased engagement and economic support.

Biography: Madelynn Vinson is a marketing and communications major from Newport News, Virginia. After graduation, she plans to enter an internship with an athletic program working in event operations.

Kelsey Mae Wiseman

Project Supervisor: Lisa Landram 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Social Work

Project Title: Pathways Program: Assessing Client Needs and the Recruitment Process

Abstract: Throughout my field placement at Pathways, I have gained immense exposure to the program and its operations. Through my social lens that has been expanded throughout my coursework at MBU in the social work and psychology programs, I’ve noticed key areas that would assist in improving Pathways services. Sexual health is important for people with substance use disorders, but taboo, and not attended to. I am working to highlight and integrate this into the program. There is a punitive culture within law enforcement that affects the referral process and client admission. Furthermore, I am assessing the informal measure of clients’ readiness for treatment as that also affects this process.

Pathways Program consists of two primary services, a diversion and deflection program for people with substance use disorders and/or mental health disorders. Pathways offers wrap-around services to assist in clients’ sobriety and well-being. Deflection is a commitment to the program’s services and requirements in exchange for sobriety, well-being in many life areas, and resource connections. In addition, diversion is a commitment to the program’s services and requirements in exchange of charges never being filed or charges being dropped upon graduation.
Referrals to Pathways for diversion are primarily done by officers (pre-charge diversion) at their discretion. The program manager later has the opportunity to look at arrest logs and “recruit” participants (post-charge diversion). Pre-charge diversion is most desired and optimal for clients because although there was no prosecution on dropped charges they may still appear on certain records. Relationship building with law enforcement and educating them on the program logistics, so they can see the benefits, will be necessary to increase pre-charge diversion candidates. Readiness is formally and informally measured (assessing charge types, officer concerns, lying, and deception) and is a major component as to whether Pathways will accept a client. I am assessing other diversion programs and their readiness assessments in comparison because the informal assessment of readiness is a concern for bias and unequal opportunity.

Pathways offers a resource guide that is regularly updated by practicum students. The guide provides about 15 categories of services and providers but excludes sexual health providers. People with substance use disorder are at higher risk of STIs due to risky behaviors and poor use of drug paraphernalia (e.g. sharing or reusing needles) (National Library of Medicine, 2020). To improve Pathways wrap around service connections it would be beneficial to add gynecologists, urologists, free clinics, and where to access contraceptives to the community resource guide.

Biography: Kelsey Wiseman is a social work and psychology double major from Waynesboro, Virginia. Upon graduation Kelsey plans to work in the social work field to gain experience with her bachelor’s degree and get her QMHP. She may return for her master’s degree in the developing social work master’s program.

Breann “Anna” Long

Project Supervisor: Clayton Smith 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Marketing

Project Title: JournEase with AUS: Personalized Itineraries for Seamless Airport Navigation

Abstract: Navigating airports can be overwhelming, with congestion, unclear wayfinding, and inefficient movement causing stress for travelers. JournEase with AUS, or JournEase for short, is an AI-driven itinerary system designed in partnership with Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to transform the passenger experience. By leveraging real-time foot traffic data, travelers profiles, and airport insights, JournEase aims to generate dynamic, personalized itineraries that guide passengers efficiently through the terminal. This system will intelligently direct travelers to key destinations—restaurants, retail, entertainment, and amenities—while reducing crowding at gates and high-traffic areas.

Passengers will receive their customized itineraries via print or digital format, ensuring seamless navigation that adapts in real-time to shifting conditions. By alleviating congestion, enhancing engagement with airport attractions, and optimizing airport flow, JournEase with AUS sets a new standard for intelligent, stress-free travel, turning wayfinding from a challenge into an effortless journey.

Biography: Breann “Anna” Taylor, a marketing and communications major from Castlewood, VA, is a social media strategist and content creator. She runs a coaching agency for freelancers and entrepreneurs, helping them grow their brands online. Passionate about digital marketing, Anna plans to expand her business after graduation and continue empowering others through education, strategy, and content creation.

Peyton Craven

Project Supervisor: Paige Reed 

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Criminal Justice

Project Title: The Care Collective: Providing Care and Comfort to Survivors

Abstract: Magnolia Rose is the only emergency human trafficking shelter in Virginia, indicating that resources available to serve trafficking victims in our state are scarce. As an intern at Magnolia Rose, I sought to gather comfort care products for individuals who have experienced human or sex trafficking in the Shenandoah Valley to help address this need. During this drive, we collected over 100 items, consisting of various care products such as combs, coloring books, etc., that will be provided to victims who come into Magnolia Rose’s care in the form of a care kit. Donations for the drive were collected both locally and across the state of Virginia, garnering participation from the Staunton and Fishersville MBU campuses, local SAW community members, and Virginians over 100 miles away. To extend outreach and provide education, I met with a group from a local Girl Scouts Troop to help them gain a better understanding of how to make an impact in their community through service, as well as the overall mission of Magnolia Rose. Ultimately, this project demonstrates how collective efforts of our community can help victims for support on their journey to healing.

Biography: Peyton Craven is a criminal justice major with a minor in psychology. Her hometown is Victoria, Virginia. She has been an intern and volunteer with Magnolia Rose since August of 2024. She aspires to be a victim advocate following graduation as well as continuing to volunteer with Magnolia Rose.

Zayin Battle

Project Supervisor: Clayton Smith

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Marketing

Project Title: AUS Project

Abstract: Navigating airports can be overwhelming, with congestion, unclear wayfinding, and inefficient movement causing stress for travelers. JournEase with AUS, or JournEase for short, is an AI-driven itinerary system designed in partnership with Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to transform the passenger experience. By leveraging real-time foot traffic data, travelers profiles, and airport insights, JournEase aims to generate dynamic, personalized itineraries that guide passengers efficiently through the terminal. This system will intelligently direct travelers to key destinations—restaurants, retail, entertainment, and amenities—while reducing crowding at gates and high-traffic areas.

Passengers can receive their customized itineraries via print or digital format, ensuring seamless navigation that adapts in real-time to shifting conditions. By alleviating congestion, enhancing engagement with airport attractions, and optimizing airport flow, JournEase with AUS sets a new standard for intelligent, stress-free travel, turning wayfinding from a challenge into an effortless journey.

Biography: Zayin “Zee” Battle is a passionate and results-oriented marketing and communications major with an integrated marketing emphasis and a minor in business. She holds an extensive background in brand management, digital marketing tactics, and successful communication methods. With a strong attention to detail and a love of telling stories, she is capable of creating engaging content for various platforms and audiences. Excellent at managing social media, she has applied these abilities to maximize campaigns and increase engagement for the MathScience Innovation Center in Richmond and as the MBU Office of Integrated Communications intern.

Shane Woods

Project Supervisor: Dr. Paige Reed & Martha Saunders

Type of Presentation: HIP

HIP Category: Criminal Justice

Project Title: Defying Erasure Together: A Collaborative Celebration of Queer Joy

Abstract: Queer Joy began as an idea in Fall 2024 to celebrate queer identities and the joy people feel from being involved with the LGBTQ+ community. Since the 2024 presidential election and the continued attacks on LGBTQ+ identities, history, and art, Queer Joy has become a safe space for expression and a stronghold against erasure. Through a collaboration with the Office of LGBTQ+ Resources and Hunt Gallery, the exhibition project has collectively worked to send out over 90 panels to members of the Mary Baldwin University and Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro communities to inspire community members to express their queer joy through art. Participant art was then exhibited alongside a historical timeline, which presented their artistic expression as part of the broader historical context and strengthened the permanence of the LGBTQ+ community within American society from the past to today. Joy, community, and resistance are not quantifiable variables, but the impact of celebrating queer people and how they express their joy in the face of adversity is evident in the participation from our local communities and the collaboration fostered by the Queer Joy exhibition project. Despite the historic and present attacks on LGBTQ+ identities and attempts to erase them, queer joy has always existed and will always find avenues of expression.

Biography: Shane Woods is a history major hailing from Dinwiddie County, Virginia. He plans to pursue a career in the museum field and currently works at the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia.

Madelynn Vinson

Project Supervisor: Clayton Smith

Type of Project: High-Impact Practice Project

Type of Presentation: High Impact Practice Project

Project Title: Bridging the Gap between Mary Baldwin University and Downtown Staunton

Abstract:  Mary Baldwin University (MBU) students often remain disconnected from downtown Staunton, despite its diverse local businesses and unique experiences. Our senior project seeks to bridge this gap by exploring strategies to encourage students to not only visit but engage with the downtown area. Through market research, student surveys, collaboration with local businesses and Downtown Staunton, we will identify key barriers—such as lack of belonging ,perceived relevance and lack of awareness as well as develop targeted marketing solutions. Our project will focus on creating compelling messaging, student-centered events, and strategic partnerships that position downtown Staunton as an accessible and appealing extension of campus life. By implementing these initiatives, we aim to foster a stronger relationship between MBU students and the local community, ultimately benefiting both groups through increased engagement and economic support.

Biography: Madelynn Vinson is a marketing and communications major, with an emphasis in integrated marketing, from Newport News, Virginia. After graduation I plan to be an event operations coordinator for a sports team, hopefully a professional sports team.

Yuka Quinn

Project Supervisor: Laura Showalter

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Social Science/Political Science

Project Title: Money Is Power: The Case of Japan’s Economic Performance and Its Effect on Its Political Standing in the Global Sphere

Abstract: In an ever-changing and globalizing world, what makes some nations stronger than others? What allows nations to retain power and pull while others decline in strength? By utilizing economic data, historical knowledge, and recent perceptions of power, this thesis explores how the perception of economic strength correlates to the perception of political power within the sphere of international relations, using Japan as a case study. Japan has faced an economic decline since taking part in major international organizations and decision-making bodies.
This thesis finds a positive correlation between economic strength measured by real GDP and global-political performance measured through comprehensive power rankings, as well as past and current events, as findings show that when a nation is experiencing economic prosperity, its pull on global, regional, and domestic politics grows stronger.

Biography: Yuka Quinn is a international affairs major with a double minor in History and homeland security from Herndon, VA. They have presented at the National Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society conference in Washington D.C. in February. Yuka has started working under DHS.

Catrell Jackson

Project Supervisor: Kristen Egan

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Humanities/English

Project Title: The Suffering of African Americans in Toni Morrison’s Literature

Abstract: This thesis focuses on the dehumanization of African American men, women, and children, primarily in the works of the author Toni Morrison. However, while the black characters in her works are fictional, they represent the real oppression and struggles that African Americans suffered through inside and outside of enslavement. Unbeknownst to some people, the effects of dehumanization will continue to affect African Americans not only physically, but mentally as well, which in turn affects relationships and their own self-image, a topic that I focus
on in my thesis.

Biography: Catrell Jackson is an English major with a minor in studio art. Her hometown is Belcamp, Maryland. This last fall, they have graduated Mary Baldwin University and secured a position at a local library. In the future, he plans on publishing his own novel.

Delaney Cheyenne Winterdove Narron

Project Supervisor: Dr. Paige Reed & Abby Wightman

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Social Science/Criminal Justice

Project Title: Conservation Officers’ Perspectives on Tribal and Environmental Law

Abstract: Conservation Police Officers in Virginia play a vital role in enforcing environmental laws, including areas involving tribal lands. Despite reported collaboration, there are some jurisdictional and cultural barriers between CPOs and tribes. This study examines how Virginia CPOs navigate these challenges while maintaining respect for the tribes as sovereign nations. Data was gathered using qualitative research by conducting semi-structured interviews with several CPOs employed in various parts of Virginia. Participants will discuss their experiences, challenges, and strategies when performing their duties on or near tribal land. Secondary data from existing literature on tribal conflicts with CPOs in other states will be analyzed to provide a broader context for Virginia’s findings. With the identification of areas of conflict and their potential solutions, this research ultimately aims to improve collaboration between CPOs and tribes in the United States.

Biography: Delaney Cheyenne Winterdove Narron is a senior with a CJ major/BUAD minor from Charles City County, Virginia. She plans to enroll in the conservation police academy after graduation. She is a proud member of the Chickahominy Tribe of Virginia (Turtle Clan). She wishes to be the first Native American CPO for her people.

Shane Austin Woods

Project Supervisor: Dr. Mary Hill Cole

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Humanities/History

Project Title: Conserving Natural and Cultural Resources to Americanize Future Generations: Selling the NPS as a Cultural Assimilation Tool during the Progressive Era

Abstract: In the formative years leading up to the creation of the National Park Service (NPS) in 1916, two progressive movements emerged: Americanization and conservation. Members of both movements were upper- and middle-class Americans shaped by the growing social change of the Progressive Era. In the arguments for creating a federal bureau to manage parks, those shared members caused the two movements to converge. 15 national parks existed before the NPS, and some park proponents believed that parks managed through a dedicated service could have benefits beyond conservation. They argued that the parks could serve as democratic classrooms, fostering patriotism and removing foreign influence. Due to the middle- and upper-class desire to create a homogenous identity in a time of cultural diversification, park proponents sold the NPS as a tool for the cultural and ethnic assimilation of European immigrants into American society.

Biography: Shane Woods is a history major with minors in political science and secondary history and social science education. He plans to pursue a career in museum education and currently works at the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia as a Research & Archives Assistant.

Anthony Jones

Project Supervisor: Dr. Mary Cole

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Humanities/History

Project Title: A Space for Gaming: The Establishment and Growth of Third Spaces for Those in the Gaming Community from 1967 to 1998

Abstract: The years between 1967 and 1998 were the pinnacle years for the creation and growth of organized spaces created by those in the gaming community. These years observed the foundation of Dungeons & Dragons in 1971, and the establishment of the first gaming convention Gen Con in 1967. This paper sought to understand how gaming communities created the spaces required for their games, and how these spaces grew as gaming to include the public. While traditional historical sources on the history of these communities were limited, the available resources captured how these communities began and developed. Texts such as Robin D. Laws’ 40 Years of Gen Con served as collected histories of people like Gary Gygax who helped define what gaming became. Despite large texts being limited, the value in the small and personal texts helped complete an understanding around the community. Using newsletters and magazines the events the community held were able to reach past the town that held it. The emergence and growth of communities centered around gaming from 1967 with the first Gen Con to 1998 and rise of the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) which transformed the idea of gaming from a hobby to a claimed identity.

Biography: Anthony Jones is a history major from Fishersville, Virginia. He plans to pursue a career in either historical preservation for a museum, or a career as a history teacher. The passion Anthony has for history is thanks to the Professor’s of Mary Baldwin University, and his internship with the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia.

Cloey Mazingo

Project Supervisor: Dr. Mary Hill Cole

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Humanities/History

Project Title: “A National Park Near the Nation’s Capital”; The Dirty History of the Foundation of Shenandoah National Park

Abstract: Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park (SHEN) is a national treasure advertised as just 75 miles from the bustle of Washington D.C. It features the Skyline Drive which drivers can take for scenic views and a network of trails, including a large section of the Appalachian Trail. It spans nearly 200,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife. From an outsider’s perspective, Shenandoah National Park appears to have made nothing but positive contributions to America’s local, regional, and national communities. A deeper dive into the foundation of the Virginian national park, however, reveals a much different story that has often been overlooked. Various individuals espousing classist and eugenic ideologies sought to gain personally from the foundation of Shenandoah National Park. One of the biggest obstacles standing in their way from the foundation of the park were the roughly 500 families who had called the hills and hollows their home. They utilized and capitalized upon harmful ideas of classism and eugenics in order to justify removing the local hollow folk from their generational lands within the boundaries of the proposed park. This part of history is often neglected within the biographies of these individuals as well as in the information on SHEN that is pushed out by the National Park Service (NPS). It should be acknowledged and recognized that powerful people knowingly perpetuated destructive ideologies with only their own personal growth in mind and without a second thought to the human beings and their communities that were affected by the foundation of the now beloved Shenandoah National Park.

Biography: Cloey Mazingo is a history major with double minors in sociology and leadership studies. She is from Buena Vista, Virginia. In May, Cloey will commission into the United States Army as a Field Artillery Officer and complete her training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Sophie Wilkins

Project Supervisor: Dr. Kerry Cooke

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Visual and Performing Arts

Project Title: The Seasons and the Languages Change

Abstract: Very few scholars or practitioners consider the function of translated plays in a theatrical season or whether they uphold or undermine the traditional canon. In my thesis project, I aim to explore this. To do so, I study five theatre companies in the Shenandoah Valley; the Mary Baldwin University undergraduate Theatre Department and graduate Shakespeare and Performance program, the American Shakespeare Center, the Oak Grove Theatre, and the Silver Line Theatre Exchange. With this research, I study the amount, times, and types of translations being used over the course of their respective production histories. I argue through this analysis that the use of plays translated to English from other languages in regional theatres has great potential to either uphold the canon and support it or undermine and rewrite it.

Biography: Sophie Wilkins is a theatre major with minors in anthropology and French. She is from Durham, North Carolina. Sophie’s plans post-graduation are to return to their hometown and get involved in the local theatre industry, working as a dramaturg and technician.

Johannah Dillaway

Project Supervisor: Laura Showalter

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Social Science/Political Science

Project Title: Line in the Sand: The Escalating Conflict over Control of the Second Thomas Shoal

Abstract: The Second Thomas Shoal is a contested geologic feature in the South China Sea located within the Economic Exclusive Zone of the Philippines. The shoal has become an escalating point of tension between the Republic of the Philippines and the Peoples Republic of China for territorial control. Tensions began to escalate in the area around the shoal after China’s 2009 declaration that the nine-dash line would denote all land and water within the South China Sea that they control. This thesis will examine the reasons why China and the Philippines want control over the Shoal using the theory of realism. This paper will explore legal standings, historical and current events surrounding the conflict including similar instances that have occurred in other areas of the South China Sea. Looking at the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, UNCLOS, to justify the Philippines claim to sovereignty over the shoal and the resources surrounding it and China’s continued aggression despite rulings of illegality of their actions. By applying realism, this paper explains why both China and the Philippines are prioritizing control of the Second Thomas Shoal, reflecting on the broader power struggle within the South China Sea as well as the fight to assert dominance on the international stage. These findings offer insight into the ability to enforce maritime sovereignty and the usefulness of international law amidst the rising tensions in the South China Sea.

Biography: Johannah Dillaway is a political science and international relations double major with a minor in leadership studies from New Boston, New Hampshire. After graduation Johannah will commission in the United States Navy as a Nuclear Surface Warfare officer and will be heading to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

Victoria Lambert

Project Supervisor: Dr. Sarah Kennedy

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Humanities/English

Project Title: Historical Trauma Literature and its Gothic Ties

Abstract: Historical events can be some of the most horrific things conceivable. The fact that these are thoughts non-fictitious individuals put into motion makes it even more terrifying. These traumatic events are remembered through educating the younger generations as a reminder that society needs to acknowledge the good and bad of the past so that they are not doomed to repeat it. The novelization of these traumas gives readers more insight into the event, bringing the reader into the headspace of people who encountered those events, either firsthand or spectating the horrors. This research will answer the question, “What draws historical novels to the Gothic?” Novels such as Heart of Darkness (1899) by Joseph Conrad, Beloved (1987) by Toni Morrison, and The Fervor (2022) by Alma Katsu tackle historical tragedies through a Gothic lens to emphasize the horror behind these events as a result of mankind’s inherent selfishness. The belief that certain lives are more valuable than others is a terrifying concept itself; however, The Fervor and Beloved both use the supernatural as a tool to make the reader feel more disturbed. This research uses the method of looking at these texts alongside other artifacts during the period the novels were written as a new historicist approach to better understand the intertwined relationship between the Gothic and historical trauma literature.

Biography: Victoria Lambert is an English major with a minor in education from Swoope, Virginia. After she finishes student teaching in the fall, she intends to become an English teacher in either a middle school or high school.

Xoch Correa

Project Supervisor: Molly Seremet

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Visual and Performing Arts/Theatre

Project Title: Theatre, Political Identity, and Shakespearean Adaptations: Opportunity for Representation in Shakespeare Adaptations

Abstract: Many people believe that art, specifically theatre, should be apolitical as political topics can be harmful and ostracizing. For instance, in 2016 Donald Trump stated that the cast of “Hamilton” was rude and harassing then vice-president Mike Pence for addressing him and asking him to “uphold our American values and to work on behalf of all of us” when he attended the show. I use feminist intersectional theory to study hyper-canonical authors like Shakespeare and argue that through adaptations a writer, like Shakespeare, can be politicized so that people are represented. By politicizing theatre we can expand and challenge horizons to lead towards universal representation.

Biography: Xoch Correa is a theatre major with a minor in psychology. Their hometown is Cumberland, Virginia. In the fall, they will be entering Southside Virginia Community College to study cosmetology.

KeiAjha Shelton

Project Supervisor: Calvin Chung

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Social Sciences/Business

Project Title: Are DEI Programs Working in Large Corporations? A Comparative Analysis of Microsoft and Google

Abstract: As the world changes, the beings in the world can either stay the same or they can change for the better. Not just the air we breathe or the water we drink daily; but our knowledge changes. Some knowledge remained the same, either benefiting them for the better or being a disadvantage to others. As the world grew we grew up with those changes we face in our lives, depending on the influences we have seen throughout our lives. When America formed and gained their rights in 1776, things changed not for Americans but this was only the stepping stone of a new era of diversity. Along with America being formed not only were there one race living there for a time period, later down the road we later gained multiple ethnicities coming to live in America. Not only do we have multiple races living together as one, we also have to eat with each other, learn with each other in schools, and we have to work together in order to live a good life. Later down in life, we have to realize not everyone lived the same life as some would have thought, and history had a play in that. During that time when America was becoming one, we were divided due to our history of slavery, countries having conflict with each other, miscommunications among us and other countries. We later realized after all the blood shed happening due to the wars, we have to put our problems to the side to be able to come together to live as one. Some came to terms with it and accepted other ethnicities living in the same neighborhood as us, but others can’t accept the new ways of living, or some are not properly taught about their culture. African Americans had a harder time working in America due to their freedom after a deep history of slavery in America. The mid-20th century was transforming as the Civil Rights Movement changed the equal employment laws and affirmative action policies. These legislative initiatives were thought to erase all systemic discrimination and foster equal opportunities within the workplace. Countless companies launched diversity training programs to assist employees in acclimating to progressively integrated work environments. These initial efforts established the foundation for what would evolve into comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategies in the corporate companies. With not only the workforce developing little by little everyday, we the people also are changing as the time goes by. We first only identify as men and women, but later we gained new identities when the LGBTQ+ movements are being held along with having their own month for their successes and challenges. Since the LGBTQ+ community is growing at a fast pace, there could be more information we can be missing and misunderstanding. DEI programs are not only protecting ethnicities being mistreated but protecting the individuals who have a whole different identity that some may not know or understand. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs have become key to corporate strategies aimed at creating inclusive workplaces and helping build more diverse teams in businesses. This paper looks into whether DEI programs are actually working in large companies, focusing on two of the largest technology companies: Microsoft, known for its strong and effective DEI initiatives, and Google, which has had a harder time in reaching their DEI goals. The purpose of this study was to look into what makes DEI programs succeed or fail, providing insights into the best practices and areas that need improvement. By analyzing these two companies, this research looks to deepen the understanding of how effective DEI programs are in large corporations and how that affects the business industry. Research shows that companies with diverse workforces usually outperform their less diverse peers in innovation, market share, and profitability. This also promotes equity and inclusion which makes employees feel valued and supported, which can lower turnover rates and boost overall job satisfaction. However, the road to reaping these benefits is filled with challenges. If companies are going to start enforcing DEI programs, the outcome often depends on how the company is letting their management take control, how they are enforcing it, and their commitment to supporting culture.

Biography: KeiAjha Shelton is a business major with an emphasis in project management and marketing from Louisa County, Virginia. She will be completing her bachelors in three years along with her progress in the MBA program and will be completing next year.

Amelie Yanes Urrutia

Project Supervisor: Katherine Low

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Humanities

Project Title: Applying Care Ethics to Nathan Fielder’s The Rehearsal

Abstract: Comedy writer and director Nathan Fielder is the creator of a 2022 show entitled The Rehearsal. In this show, Fielder uses elaborate set designs and dozens of actors in order to prepare his clients for an anticipated moral dilemma involving important people in their lives. Some have criticized The Rehearsal for its possible exploitative features, such as sensationalizing and televising personal ethical issues. However, my analysis asserts that the series holds significant value by showcasing the impact of caring ideals and inviting a discussion on the validity of rehearsing. Care ethics, developed by Carol Gilligan in 1982, emphasizes the importance of maintaining interdependent relationships in life by meeting the needs of others along with promoting one’s own well-being. Using this ethical perspective, I argue that rehearsing is an act of care that helps maintain important relationships, and that this ethical exercise merits the publication of interpersonal issues in The Rehearsal.

Biography: Amelie Yanes is a biology major (biomedical emphasis) and music minor (performance emphasis) from Sterling, Virginia. After graduation, Amelie plans to pursue a career in microbiology, hoping to conduct research that directly impacts healthcare. She also enjoys ethical discussions and is a fan of Nathan Fielder’s work, including The Rehearsal.

Brianna R. Lewis

Project Supervisor: Dr. Laura Showalter

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Social Science/Political Science

Project Title: Assessing the Impact of Vice-Presidential Selections on Presidential Elections

Abstract: This study examines the evolving role of vice-presidential selection in shaping electoral outcomes, with a particular focus on the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The central research question explored is: How does the selection of a vice-presidential candidate influence voter perceptions and contribute to a candidate’s electoral success in a polarized political landscape? Focusing on the Harris-Walz ticket, the study investigates how the vice-presidential pick interacts with broader campaign strategies and impacts voter behavior.
The analysis reveals that the vice-presidential selection plays a significant role in shaping voter opinions, enhancing the perceived strength and competitiveness of the ticket. Specifically, the choice of running mate influences factors such as electability, the ticket’s appeal to various demographic groups, and the broader narrative of the campaign. The study suggests that beyond the presidential candidate’s personal appeal and policy positions, the vice-presidential pick can serve as a strategic tool to consolidate voter support and broaden a candidate’s electoral base.

However, the findings also indicate that the vice-presidential pick, while important, is just one of several critical factors influencing electoral outcomes. Broader elements such as the incumbent president’s approval rating, the state of the economy, and the overall political climate were found to have a more decisive impact on the election result. This research emphasizes the complex dynamics at play in modern presidential campaigns, highlighting the nuanced role of the vice-presidential selection within the broader political landscape.

Biography: Brianna R. Lewis is a political science major and anthropology minor from Brooklyn, Newyork. After graduating in may of 2025 Brianna will be entering the work force will studying for her FSOT, LSAT, and GRE. Brianna has aspirations to work for the federal government more specifically the state department as a lawyer.

Analise Toone

Project Supervisor: Molly Seremet

Type of Project: Senior Project

Type of Presentation: Paper

Paper Category: Visual and Performing Arts/Theatre

Project Title: “Women’s High and Mighty Words:” The Language of Gender in the Plays of Aphra Behn and Margaret Cavendish

Abstract: Despite extensive scholarship on the works of Aphra Behn and Margaret Cavendish, these Restoration playwrights are rarely studied together. By examining Behn and Cavendish’s canons side by side, we can observe how each playwright challenges traditional gender roles through their distinct forms of playwriting: commercial plays and closet dramas. This paper will explore the language used by female protagonists in Cavendish’s plays, Bell in Campo and The Convent of Pleasure, as well as Behn’s plays, The Rover, or The Banished Cavaliers and The Young King, or The Mistake. I argue that Behn and Cavendish’s female protagonists use language that harnesses their respective genres to articulate their proto-feminist beliefs. Because Cavendish wrote closet dramas meant for the page only, her female protagonists more openly state their proto-feminist beliefs. Conversely, because Behn wrote for the public English stage, her female protagonists use language to create subversive and revolutionary ideas while remaining popular among English audiences. This research looks to re-evaluate how we understand Behn and Cavendish as feminist playwrights; their plays are built upon a foundation of subversive ideas of gender roles in society, upholding their label as proto-feminist playwrights.

Biography: Analise Toone is a theatre major from Birmingham, Alabama. She presented her initial research on Aphra Behn at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Conference in 2023. Analise intends to continue at Mary Baldwin as a part of the Shakespeare and Performance graduate program.