Digital Commons Network^™

Uta Datathon 2025 Challenges (Archive), Rubab Shahzad, Srinivasa Sai Abhijit Challapalli, Ghanbarian Behzad, Mei Yang, Clivin Geju, Zecil Yogeshkumar Jain, Jay Mahavirkumar Shah, Sai Nikhitha Chandana

2025 Datathon Challenges-Archive

Timed and Model Challenges from the UTA Datathon 2025

Ai Meets Economics: Can Deep Learning Surpass Machine Learning And Traditional Statistical Models In Inflation Time Series Forecasting?, Ezekiel N.N. Nortey, Edmund F. Agyemang, Enoch Sakyi-Yeboah, Obu-Amoah Ampomah, Louis Agyekum

School of Mathematical & Statistical Sciences Faculty Publications

This study examined the forecasting ability of deep learning (DL) and machine learning (ML) models against benchmark traditional statistical models for the monthly inflation rates in the USA. The study compared various DL and ML models like transformers, linear regression, gradient boosting (GB), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and adaptive boosting (AdaBoost) with traditional baseline time-series models like autoregressive integrated moving averages (ARIMA) and exponential smoothing (ETS) with Holt-Winters seasonal method utilizing data sourced from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. The study consistently showed that all DL and ML models outperformed the traditional approaches. In particular, the Transformer (RMSE …

Effect Of Street-Pricing Deregulation In U.S. Airports On Customer Satisfaction, Thorsten Merkle, Satheesh Seenivasan, Sushanta Das

ICHRIE Research Reports

This study investigates the impact of pricing policies and food and beverage (F&B) strategies on traveler satisfaction in the dynamic airport environment, with a focus on Phoenix airport in comparison with two other (undisclosed) major U.S. airports. Using a mixed-methods approach that integrates unstructured observations and social media analytics, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of passenger behavior, satisfaction, and spending patterns in airside F&B outlets.

Key findings reveal that traveler satisfaction is driven by factors such as service quality, timeliness, perceived value, and emotional engagement, with price sensitivity playing a relatively minor role. Phoenix International Airport exemplifies a successful …

Unleashing Excellence: Strengthening It Leaders Through Executive Coaching, Tonya S. Rivers

Dissertations

This paper explores the impact of executive coaching on Information Technology (IT) leaders. Many organizations across different industries lack strong leadership, as exposed by COVID-19. Companies aim to keep exceptional leaders and establish upbeat workplaces to achieve success. Although previous research has examined leadership effectiveness, it is still unclear how best to manage employees' perceptions of effective leadership. The goal of this research is to provide new insights into what can improve perceptions of leadership effectiveness. I explored the role executive leadership coaching has on managers working in the Information Technology (IT) field. Current literature often mentions the need for …

2025 Academic Conference Program

Holy Cross Undergraduate Academic Conference

No abstract provided.

Power Dressing Or Overdressing? The Effect Of Self And Managerial Attire On Employee Perceptions, Conor Kincaid

Honors Projects in Management

This study investigates how dress styles influence employees' self-perceptions when they and their managers wear different attire in corporate environments. We surveyed employees across various industries and company sizes, showing them images of individuals in casual, smart casual, business casual, and business formal attire. Based on Peluchette and Karl's (2007) validated instrument, participants rated sixteen self-perception attributes across six dimensions: authoritativeness, competence, productivity, trustworthiness, friendliness, and creativity, with strong reliability coefficients ranging from .82 to .93. Our findings revealed that employees perceive themselves as significantly more authoritative (p = 0.0002) and competent (p = 0.033) when wearing business formal attire, …

Beyond Revenge Spending: Exploring The Role Of Loneliness And Online Brand Equity In Sustained Luxury Consumption Among Asian Mz Adults, Sukyoung Kang, Sanghee Kim

Asia Marketing Journal

This study examines the relationship between loneliness, online brand equity, and luxury purchase intentions among Asian MZ adults. While prior research attributed the surge in luxury purchases during COVID-19 to ``revenge spending'' aimed at alleviating negative emotions, this study suggests that individuals leverage loneliness, transforming it into a driving force for luxury consumption by addressing emotional needs rather than simply compensating for distress. By highlighting online brand equity as a moderating factor, the study demonstrates how luxury brands, traditionally reliant on offline experiences, can leverage digital channels to connect with Asian MZ consumers. Based on a survey of 200 participants, …

Connecting Emotionally: Examining The Impact Of Narrative Video Advertising On Consumer Involvement And Brand Attachment, Anni Rahimah, Shannon Saghava Aqfa Dzikrullah, Ameylia Ayu Astira

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

The increasingly competitive advertising landscape necessitates innovative strategies to engage potential customers effectively. This study investigates the impact of emotional and narrative-driven video advertisements on attitudes toward advertisements and advertisement involvement, ultimately fostering emotional brand attachment among viewers. This research adopts a quantitative approach, employing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) based on Partial Least Squares (PLS) using SmartPLS 4 software. Data were collected through a structured survey involving 131 respondents who had utilized the GoSend service in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. The results demonstrate that emotional and narrative elements in video advertisements exert a significant positive influence on viewers’ attitudes toward advertisements …

Designing A Human-Centered Public Relations System For Layoffs At Organizations Across Financial And Professional Services, Kateryna Kzhemanovska

Harrisburg University Dissertations and Theses

Public relations professionals support businesses across financial and professional services sectors with several initiatives, including reduction of workforce. Given the current macroeconomic situation, as of April 2025, many companies are laying off employees, and doing so in a non-user-centric way. This study will examine existing literature on the topics of corporate communications, reduction of the workforce, reputation management, human-centered interaction design, and project management, and explore the opportunity and relevance of applying human-centered methods to the reduction of workforce processes.

"It's About Time!" First-Year Generation Z African American Collegiate Male Time Management Practices: A Phenomenological Study, James Delano Payne Douglas

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this qualitative transcendental phenomenological study was to understand the impact of time management practices on the experiences of academic integration and social integration for first-year Generation Z African American collegiate males. African American collegiate male retention, persistence, and completion rates are lower than those of other higher education demographics. The theory guiding this study was Astin’s (1984, 1999) student involvement theory which hypothesized that student learning and personal growth results from the degree of involvement measured by the amount of time personally invested in the educational process. The central research question is “How do first-year Generation Z …

Bridging Experience And Intention: The Mediating Role Of Outcome Expectations In Social Entrepreneurship Among Creative Economy Actors, Muhammad Iqbal Rezky, Janah Sojanah, Rasto Rasto

BISNIS & BIROKRASI: Jurnal Ilmu Administrasi dan Organisasi

This study explores the role of outcome expectations in mediating the influence of prior experience on social entrepreneurship intention in the creative economy sector of Indonesia. Despite the increasing interest in social entrepreneurship, research on the factors driving the intention to become a social entrepreneur remains scarce. This study employed the Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) as a theoretical framework to investigate social entrepreneurship as a career choice, focusing on the influence of outcome expectations on social entrepreneurship intention. A quantitative explanatory survey was conducted with 290 creative economy actors in Bandung through questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Partial Least …

Perceptions Of Employability With Ai Skills, Brandy Whitford, Patrick J. Cooper

Student Publications and Presentations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is making AI proficiency a key factor in hiring and career advancement. By late 2023, 75% of knowledge workers integrated AI into their workflows, with 92% reporting increased productivity and creativity (Kimbrough, 2024). Employers are adapting—66% prefer candidates with AI expertise, and 77% consider AI skills essential for career growth (Microsoft & LinkedIn, 2024). However, hiring biases related to AI-skilled applicants remain underexplored, particularly concerning gender disparities in employability perceptions. This study examines how AI-related skills influence perceived employability and whether these perceptions vary based on applicant gender. Specifically, it explores whether AI-skilled female applicants receive higher …

Discovering Prompt Engineering: A Qualitative Study Of Nonexpert Teachers' Interactions With Chatgpt, Katherine Carl, Christopher A. Dignam

Research Days

Discussions of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) have become ubiquitous in research, industry, and education. Prompt engineering has emerged as a valuable skill desired by employers, and students have begun to express interest in learning effective ways of interacting with Generative AI. While much research has been done to formalize and optimize the process of prompt engineering, few studies have investigated the use of AI by nonexperts, including nonexpert teachers. In this study, we use qualitative analysis to characterize the process by which nonexpert teachers engage with and learn from ChatGPT as they engage with it as co-creators to …

Enhancing Animal Shelter Operations With Time Series And Machine Learning, Sakava L. Kiv, Donald L. Anderson, Shivam Negi, Jacquelyn Cheun

SMU Data Science Review

Enhancing animal shelter operations through machine learning involves employing a variety of advanced techniques aimed at increasing efficiency, promoting animal welfare, and optimizing resource allocation. This paper explores predictive analytics for adoption rates using regression models to estimate the likelihood of adoption based on historical data, encompassing variables such as breed, health status, and previous adoption trends. Additionally, classification algorithms are utilized to categorize animals by adoption probability, facilitating better resources and marketing prioritization. Clustering algorithms are employed to group animals according to behavior patterns and/or physical health, enabling tailored medical care and enrichment activities that improve their mental and …

Tax Clinic, Thomas Ochsenschlager

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Utah Women, Discrimination, And Sexism: Experiences And Perceptions, April Townsend, Susan R. Madsen

Marketing and Strategy Faculty Publications

During the fall of 2023, Utah Women & Leadership Project (UWLP) researchers conducted a statewide study to establish a baseline for public perceptions related to the awareness, understanding, and attitudes about challenges that Utah women and girls face. In early 2024, UWLP published 20 research summaries¹ that shared the results of this comprehensive study. Then, in the fall of 2024, the survey was administered again around the state of Utah with slight refinements. Between January and April of 2025, we have shared the results of the 2024 data by releasing six white papers, this being the final report in …

Capturing Tradition: The Business, Branding, And Personal Identity Of Senior Portraits In The Modern South, Xenia R. Minton

Honors Theses

The rise of college students starting photography businesses, particularly in graduation portraits, has transformed the creative and entrepreneurial landscape in the South. This thesis explores the senior portrait culture at the University of Mississippi, analyzing its rapid growth through the perspectives of photographers and academic experts in Southern Studies. Grounded in eight years of experience as a photographer, this study examines the evolution of the industry, business strategies, and cultural significance. Through interviews with seasoned senior portrait photographers and Southern Studies professors, this research investigates how regional traditions, social media, and consumer expectations have shaped the profession. By analyzing these …

The Use Of Stress Testing In Evaluating Systemic Risk: Lessons From The Global Financial Crisis, Katherine Laws

Honors Theses

This paper examines the role of stress testing as a crucial tool for assessing systemic risk in the financial system, particularly in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. The global financial crisis, which unfolded between 2007 and 2009, exposed significant vulnerabilities within financial institutions and highlighted the inadequacies of existing risk management frameworks. In response, regulators and financial institutions increasingly turned to stress testing to evaluate the resilience of financial systems against economic shocks.

The paper will begin by defining systemic risk and the importance of effective risk assessment strategies. The paper will outline how stress testing can simulate …

Estate Planning For Controlling Shareholders, Allan H. Savage, Mason P. Dillaway

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Research Week 2025, Michael Schueth

Research Week

Welcome to Undergraduate Research Week at Collin College!

This week celebrates the innovative research and scholarly work of our undergraduate students across all disciplines. From our informative webinars to Cultivating Scholars, our student poster presentation, the week offers opportunities to explore new ideas, share discoveries, and connect with fellow researchers and faculty mentors.

We invite all students, faculty, and staff to participate in these events designed to highlight the importance of undergraduate research in academic and professional development. Whether you're presenting your work or simply curious about your peers' projects, your engagement helps foster our college's culture of inquiry and …

Cultivating Scholars 2025, Elizabeth Hamner

Research Week

Cultivating Scholars is an interdisciplinary event promoting undergraduate students and their special interest topics. It is a research-based setting meant to imitate a professional conference. Students work with Faculty Mentors to conduct a high-quality project and present it to the community.

Date: April 24, 2025, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Place: Collin College, Frisco Campus Conference Center

The Financial Implications Of Medical Education: An Roi Analysis Of School Type, Specialty, And Training Location, Hunter Ryan Cohn, Chase Moscovic, Alexis Kralovich, Simran Qureshi, Manoj Kulchania

Medical Student Research Symposium

The Financial Implications of Medical Education: An ROI Analysis of School Type, Specialty, and Training Location

Introduction

The financial burden of medical education profoundly influences career trajectories and long-term financial outcomes for physicians. This study examined the impact of medical school costs (comparing an in-state public and private medical school), specialty selection (focusing on Pediatrics, OB/GYN, and Orthopedic Surgery), and geographic factors on physicians' financial returns. Further, this study considered loan repayment strategies and their effects on career return on investment (ROI), offering insights into financial decision-making for future medical graduates.

Methods

Data on medical school costs, including tuition and …

Investment Analysis Of Costco: A Comprehensive Strategic And Financial Evaluation, Shane Johnson

Honors Theses

We provide an investment analysis of Costco Wholesale Corporation by conducting an analysis of the fundamental business model, industry standing, financial performance, and long-term investment potential. As a leader in the warehouse retail industry, Costco has experienced significant growth through its cost-efficient operations, bulk sales approach, superior supply chain management, membership fee revenue streams, high quality product offerings, and strong customer loyalty. This research seeks to answer the question: Is Costco a good investment opportunity based on its valuation, competitive positioning, financial performance, and overall industry outlook? We begin with a business and industry overview, analyzing Costco’s business strategy in …

How High School Athletic Directors In Southwest Michigan Paths Differ, Lily Browning

Honors Theses

The world of athletics continues to grow at a rapid rate, athletic directors are at the forefront of the sporting world particularly in high school athletics. So, how does one begin a career in athletic directing. The traditional path has been being a teacher or coach at the school and then moving into the administration portion of athletics. However, that is not the case for everyone and that is why the findings of this study are important to the field. There are not certain paths that get you to the job quicker than others in the world of athletic directing. …

Data-Driven Default Prediction: Insights From Lending Club, Shumaila Gilani, Viktoria Kleer Kliimand

SPARK Symposium Presentations

Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending has transformed consumer credit markets by providing an alternative to traditional banking institutions. LendingClub, a pioneer in this space, facilitates lending between individual investors and borrowers through a data-driven risk assessment model. Our research aims to enhance loan default prediction by developing a more precise classification model based on LendingClub’s historical loan data, ultimately improving risk assessment for investors.

Utilizing a dataset of approximately 650,000 loans from 2007 to 2015, we construct a predictive model to classify loan default risk. Our approach focuses on key financial indicators, including interest rates, borrower grades, debt-to-income ratio, and delinquency history, …

Physical Activity Curriculum And Marketing Strategy For Dale Vuelta To Empower Young Girls In Mexico., Reagan A. Dodson, Eunice M. Lee

SPARK Symposium Presentations

The World Health Organization (WHO) found that nearly one-third of the world’s adult population are physically inactive, not meeting the global recommendations of at least 150 minutes of necessary physical activity per week (WHO, 2024). Adolescent girls were less active than adolescent boys, with 85% in comparison to 78%. In Mexico, 88% of girls, ages 11-17, are physically inactive (WHO, 2022). In Mexico, the stigma around girls practicing sports remains strong; gender-based violence grows by the year, and girls are often bullied, questioned, or discouraged from participating in sports (B. Möller, personal communication, September 23, 2024). Dale Vuelta, a non-profit …

Debt Analysis And Evaluation, Anh Nguyen

Undergraduate Research Conference

Abstract: The household debt dynamics in the United States have been influenced by some socio-demographic factors. This study examines the socio-demographic factors by using a dataset of 15,000 households from the 2019 Survey of Consumer Finances. The research analyzes determinants including age, education, marital status, college level, race, kids, job, rent, knowledge, willingness to take financial risks, financial literacy, and the total value of a checking account.

Lessons Learned: Fabrizio López-Gallo, Mercedes Cardona

Journal of Financial Crises

Fabrizio López-Gallo served as the Bank of Mexico’s director general of financial stability during the COVID-19 pandemic, having been financial sector specialist and risk analysis and special projects manager for the central bank during the 2007–09 Global Financial Crisis (GFC). The Mexican government declared a health emergency at the outbreak of the pandemic and implemented a general economic shutdown. The Bank of Mexico intervened by cutting rates and initiating extraordinary measures, such as adding bond swaps and loosening rules for minimum deposits at commercial banks to provide liquidity. It gave flexibility to commercial banks to grant forbearance on mortgage payments …

Eliminating Discount Window Stigma: What Can We Learn From Abroad?, Susan Mclaughlin

Journal of Financial Crises

This article picks up from an earlier Journal of Financial Crisis policy note on discount window design to see how the experiences of other central banks can inform work to redesign the discount window to reduce stigma. As explained in that article, banks’ reluctance to use the discount window is problematic for financial stability as it constrains the Fed’s ability to use its liquidity provision tools to stem runs and mitigate contagion in times of stress. The stigma associated with discount window borrowing in the United States is well documented and is a multifaceted phenomenon.

United States: First Republic Bank Emergency Liquidity Program, 2023, Salil Gupta, Jack French, Steven Kelly

Journal of Financial Crises

First Republic Bank, a California-based institution with $212.6 billion in assets, lost $25 billion in deposits on Friday, March 10, 2023, following the closing of Silicon Valley Bank that morning. On Sunday, March 12, First Republic announced that it had access to $70 billion in unused liquidity owing to its borrowing capacity at the Federal Reserve, the Federal Home Loan Bank System, and JPMorgan Chase (JPMC). But First Republic’s depositors withdrew a further $40 billion of deposits on Monday, March 13. First Republic’s borrowings from the Federal Reserve rose as high as $109 billion between Friday, March 10, and Wednesday, …