Students show results of research and creativity

SUNY Fredonia showcased the work of more than 125 students recently, at the annual Student Research and Creativity Exposition.

The keynote speaker, scheduled for 4:15 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room, was Dr. Lisa Kennan, a health psychologist at Erie County Medical Center. A 1994 magna cum laude graduate of SUNY Fredonia, she talked about the role of research in the training of psychologists. An evaluator and counselor of patients receiving services for pain management and brain injuries, Dr. Kennan has published her work in professional journals and presented her research at regional and national conferences. Her doctorate is in clinical health psychology from the University of North Texas. As a Fredonia undergraduate, Dr. Kennan conducted research in cognitive and learning development under the supervision of Distinguished Professor Richard Weist.

SUNY Fredonia students, representing nearly every department on campus, were scheduled at half-hour intervals to present their work in a variety of different venues, including posters, oral presentations, and performances.

Some examples of the works to be exhibited:

• Junior Shea Mathis of North Collins described his work using Geographic Information Systems to integrate data on Lake Erie that was collected by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. 
• Julia Woodbury of Dunkirk, a theatre and dance major, described a project she did entitled, “Evil Medieval Theatre.”
• Frog embryos were the focus of biology presentation by graduate student Annika Anderson of Jamestown. At the same time, Eric Ferry of Forestville, a business major, explained the results of his search for the effects of “Just in Time” supply chain management.
• Karen Kamery of Portland, a history major, discussed her study on American political cartoons during the Russo-Japanese war of 1904-05.
• Stephen Kindlon of Schenectedy, a computer science major, demonstrated how algorithms can help summarize many hours of EEG (electroencephalogram) data at 2:30 p.m.
• Students also gave 20-minute oral presentations on a range of topics, including postpartum emotional states, religion in Mexico’s politics, recidivism in ex-convicts, same sex marriages, and the Harper’s Ferry Raid.
• Computer-based projects were demonstrated throughout the afternoon.
• Documentary films shown were made by David Edsall of Cape Vincent, Laura Maricano of Lancaster, and James Domroe of Clay.
• A combat scene was staged by the theatre department, using quarterstaves and swords.
• Students performed music individually and in ensembles prior to remarks by President Dennis L. Hefner and Vice President for Academic Affairs Virginia Horvath, who introduced the guest speaker.