Digital Commons Network^™

Gardens Through The Ages: How Public Gardens Impact The Growth Of Society, Abby J. Cutsinger

ATU Scholars Symposium

Throughout history, gardens held a vital role in the development of civilizations, often serving as spaces for food, reflection, and community. The aim of this study was to explore the progression of gardens parallel to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Additionally, the study aimed to determine whether gardens help fulfill those needs and, in doing so, influence human morality. To examine these possibilities, the researcher conducted a literature review of historical and contemporary accounts of gardening and its effects on physical and psychological well-being, analyzing these findings through the lens of Maslow’s framework. Additionally, crime rate data were compared across several …

Organizational Policy Initiatives For A Neurodiverse Workforce, Renae Taylor

ATU Scholars Symposium

Neurodivergent individuals make up a significant percentage of the population and yet lag in employment due to employment barriers of the traditional workplace. While the benefits of a diverse workplace are well documented, there is still a large deficit when it comes to neurodiversity equitable access. To attract and retain a neurodiverse workforce, organizations must make changes that align with research-backed methods for policy building and in turn change the organizational leadership focus to a transformational, growth-based framework.

This applied project focuses on organizational policy initiatives that support the neurodivergent employee, with an emphasis on accommodations and modifications, inclusion, and …

Impact Of Community Gardening On Neighborhood Crime Rates: Research Proposal, Abby J. Cutsinger

ATU Scholars Symposium

Gardening has been a part of human existence from the beginning of time, but people have become distanced from gardening as civilization has grown and urbanized. As this distance has grown, so has the disconnect between people and the basic needs which shape their views of themselves and of society. It is possible that, in the drift away from gardening as communities, humans have become less moral.

The purpose of this study is to determine if community gardening lowers violent crime rates.

This relationship will be gauged by answering the following questions:

• Which type of community gardening benefits community relationships …

Autonomous Intelligence In Fashion: A Comprehensive Analysis Of Agentic Ai Across The Fashion Ecosystem, Andrew Burnstine

Faculty and Staff Publications & Presentations

The fashion industry is undergoing a paradigm shift with the emergence of agentic artificial intelligence (AI), a sophisticated class of intelligent systems exhibiting autonomous decision-making, continuous learning, and adaptive action with minimal human intervention. Moving beyond traditional AI applications in fashion focused on predictive analytics, generative tools, and supervised automation, agentic AI introduces a transformative paradigm wherein intelligent agents proactively navigate the complexities inherent in design, manufacturing, supply chain optimization, and consumer personalization. This paper presents a comprehensive exploration of the evolving role of agentic AI across the multifaceted fashion ecosystem, offering an in-depth analysis of its technological underpinnings, operational …

Ethical Ai In The Healthcare Sector: Investigating Key Drivers Of Adoption Through The Multi-Dimensional Ethical Ai Adoption Model (Meaam), Prathamesh Muzumdar, Madhya Pradesh, Kuldeep Singh, Sumanth Cheemalapati

Faculty Publications - The LeMoyne Smith School of Business

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the healthcare service industry presents numerous ethical challenges, yet current frameworks often fail to offer a comprehensive, empirical understanding of the multidimensional factors influencing ethical AI integration. Addressing this critical research gap, this study introduces the Multi-Dimensional Ethical AI Adoption Model (MEAAM), a novel theoretical framework that categorizes 13 critical ethical variables across four foundational dimensions of Ethical AI: Fair AI, Responsible AI, Explainable AI, and Sustainable AI. These dimensions are further analyzed through three core ethical lenses: epistemic concerns (related to knowledge, transparency, and system trustworthiness), normative concerns (focused on justice, autonomy, …

Tax Implications To Exempt Organizations Of Six Income-Producing Activities, James L. Wittenbach, Lawrence G. Gallagher

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Are All Sports Betting Losses Created Equal?, Dylan M. Hollick

Business and Economics Honors Papers

This study investigates how the cash out feature in sports betting influences bettor reaction to loss and short-term bet likelihood. The cash out changes the mechanics of a sports betting loss outcome in several ways. By getting some of the bet’s stake back through a cash out loss, the transaction mimics a larger loss-smaller gain joint outcome as opposed to a single loss at the time of the bet’s placement. The cash out also introduces the opportunity for regret or positive counterfactuals depending on the cash outs “correctness”. Using survey data from college students responding to hypothetical betting scenarios, it …

No Cheers, No Fears: Unpacking Non-Drinkers' Survival Tactics At Work-Related Drinking Events, Amanda Good

Dissertations

In certain workplace contexts, the organization may encourage alcohol consumption at work-sponsored events, such as happy hours and dinners. In these situations, being a non-drinker becomes a stigmatized but potentially concealable identity. This research explores antecedents, consequences, and moderators of the various identity management strategies used by non-drinkers in alcohol-centric, organizationally-sponsored events. Using hierarchical linear modeling, I examined how situational factors, including event type, supervisor presence, and psychological safety, influence nondrinkers' decisions to conceal or reveal their nondrinking identity. Findings indicate that felt social pressure significantly increases concealment behaviors and decreases disclosure behaviors. Additionally, psychological safety and supervisor presence emerged …

Kennesaw State University Student Managed Investment Fund Sector Sensitivity Analysis, John Kiersznowski, Joe Johnson, Kyler Howell, Geranger Lewis

Senior Design Project For Engineers

The Kennesaw State University Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) Sector Sensitivity Analysis focuses on improving the fund’s decision-making and performance through data science. The SMIF is a diversified index fund designed to outperform indices like the S&P 500. This project investigates how macroeconomic variables—such as GDP growth, inflation, interest rates, and commodity prices—impact sector performance. By structuring data, developing a sustainable data pipeline, and leveraging advanced statistical techniques and predictive modeling, our team was able to provide the framework and proof of actionable insights that enhance the fund's ability to manage risks and optimize returns.

Measuring Exposure Through Targeted Ads, Sarah Bazell

Honors Projects

This study investigates the effectiveness of targeted digital advertising strategies for Company X, a performance motorsports fuel brand. With the goal of optimizing engagement and improving budget allocation, four distinct ad campaigns were developed and tested on Facebook and Instagram: brand awareness, product education, dealer locator promotion, and lifestyle merchandise promotion. Each campaign was evaluated based on reach, impressions, cost per result, and conversion rates. Descriptive statistics revealed significant differences in engagement rates across campaigns, with video-based, emotionally driven ads outperforming static formats. A one-way ANOVA indicated no significant difference in reach across campaigns but confirmed significant differences in spending …

Negotiating Perceived Employability As Sensemaking In The Context Of Undergraduate Work Integrated Learning, Sylvia Dempsey, Carol Linehan, Margaret Healy

Articles

As labour markets shift responsibility for navigating career transitions and employability from organisations to individuals, sensemaking around their own ‘perceived employability’ gains importance. Prior research suggests work integrated learning (WIL) experiences constitute a significant route to perceived employability for potential entrants to the accounting profession. The mechanisms through which this develops are less understood. Understanding of the impact of WIL on perceived employability, shaping individual career trajectories, augments efforts to attract new members to the profession. This study captures how representations of the world of professional accounting work are built, as entrants construct liminal places within that community. Through qualitative …

Enhancing A Client’S Website Design Through Research On Executive Function Skills: Informed Decision-Making In A Service-Learning Context, Jacob Irelan

Honors Projects

This synthesis project explores how research on executive function skills can inform effective website design in a service-learning context. Executive function skills—including working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility—are foundational to learning and development. By conducting a comprehensive literature review and engaging in service-learning through a client-based web design project, the study bridges interdisciplinary knowledge between education and visual communication technology. The project involved redesigning a client’s website focused on supporting individual's executive function skills, enhancing both its usability and search engine optimization. Hands-on, service learning experience supplemented by academic research allowed for the development of practical skills such as …

Comparative Study Of Entrepreneurial Resilience And Gender, Raegan Burkey

Honors Projects

This study aimed to determine if there was a significant difference in the relative importance of resilience factors between male entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs in order to discover which elements are most relied upon by each gender. To do this, I identified various elements of resilience through a literature review and combined them into a survey. In the survey, participants answered demographic related questions, including a question about gender, prior to moving into resilience element rankings. I then completed a factor analysis to identify three distinct factors: Propensity for Growth, Adaptive Commitment, and Self-Regulation. A T Test revealed that there …

Transformational Leadership And Its Impact On Team Success: A Detailed Chronicle Of Bellarmine University Men's Lacrosse, Ella Beames

Undergraduate Theses

This thesis uses a journalistic approach to explore the intersection between leadership, transformational leadership, in particular, and forms of success through the lens of Kentucky's only NCAA Division 1 Men's Lacrosse program. Interviews, written survey, and observation were utilized to gauge a community-wide perspective about the team and the holistic nature of the student-athlete experience within Bellarmine University Men's Lacrosse. Observation followed the team for three years and engaged players and coaching staff in telling the story of the team's shifting culture and the management process of the team's newfound success. Methods aimed to draw a connection between the change …

Toledo Private High Schools: An Analysis Of Marketing Strategies, Tegan Ruttencutter

Honors Projects

Having a better understanding of private education is vital in a country where research on private schools outside of school choice literature is limited. This research aims to gain a deeper understanding of the marketing strategies employed by Toledo private high schools, thereby enhancing our comprehension of the local education market and its broader implications. This study will delve into the websites of three prominent Toledo private high schools: one Catholic, one Christian/Religious, and one secular school. To better understand these websites and schools, marketing and education-related literature regarding marketing strategies and private education is reviewed. Additionally, to better understand …

Tax Trends, Nicholas J. Fiore

Tax Adviser

No abstract provided.

Game Changers: The Impact Of Female Representation In Sports Media On Girls' Youth Sport Participation, Kaci L. Huff

Undergraduate Theses

This thesis examines how female representation in sports media impacts girls' youth sport participation rates. Using a review of current literature and original enrollment data from local youth organizations, it reveals that limited and often stereotyped portrayals of female athletes contribute to lower participation and early dropout among girls. The study highlights how underrepresentation, especially of marginalized groups, reinforces harmful narratives that deter engagement. Solutions are proposed, including increasing inclusive media coverage and emphasizing athletic achievements over appearance. By reshaping media narratives, the sports industry can create more supportive environments and encourage greater youth sport participation among girls.

The Sound Of Disruption: The Effects Of Music Streaming Services And Technological Change On The Music Industry, Adam J. Kays

Honors Thesis

Technological changes within the music industry, particularly through streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, have completely altered how artists and labels function in 2025. This thesis examines the change from physical to digital music consumption, the economic realities of streaming royalties, and the mental and physical effects on artists in the modern age. Additionally, this thesis will discuss the utilization of playlisting methods and algorithms, as well as how artists and labels utilize these new features to their advantage. Through this research, this study analyzes and criticizes the sustainability of music streaming models.

Team Coaching, Laura Weinreb, Michael Cherry

Celebration of Scholarship

The purpose of my paper was to explore Team Coaching. I selected the topic of Team Coaching because it is a fairly new form of coaching and I wanted to learn more about it. Additionally, my organization is exploring Team Coaching and is testing the concept. I explored Team Coaching through a thorough literature review and review of the International Coaching Federation’s website. My research focused on defining team coaching, identifying the benefits of team coaching and the ethics of team coaching along with exploring team coaching competencies. The result of my work was a more thorough understanding of team …

Impact Of Humor Vs. Seriousness In Advertising: The Role Of Product Type In Consumer Recall And Purchase Behavior, Cian Ortega

Honors Theses

This study examines the effectiveness of humorous versus serious advertising tones across three different product categories, which are beverage, hygiene, and health/medicine. This is done by measuring their impact on a consumer’s brand/product recall, enjoyment, and purchase intent. Historically, humor has been related to positive emotional responses while seriousness has been associated with building trust and credibility. By using a within-subjects experimental-survey design, data were collected from seventy survey respondents who viewed humorous and serious advertisements across the three product categories (hygiene, beverage, and health/medicine and then evaluated each ad based on their agreement to statements relating to brand/product recall, …

Leadership In The Construction Industry: An Lmx Analysis, Jackson Wicker

Honors Projects

The purpose of this study is to research the different styles of leadership that are currently used in the construction industry and how LMX effects leaders and their employees relationships. This study seeks to try and answer the question of how different styles of leadership contribute to employee and leader relationships in the construction industry. This study uses content analysis in order to find major themes about LMX relationships and leadership styles and how they affect leader-follower relationships, and effectiveness in the construction industry.

Exploring The Impact Of Negative Brand Experiences On Consumer Emotions And Behavior, Li Mei Liu, Seong Ho Lee

Asia Marketing Journal

With the continuous development of social media, negative brand emotions have emerged as a significant social phenomenon. However, existing marketing research predominantly focuses on positive emotions. This study aims to explore how the sensory, emotional, behavioral, intellectual, and social dimensions of negative brand experiences elicit consumer regret and brand hate, which subsequently drive the spread of NWOM. Using SEM to analyze data from 1,000 Chinese consumers, this study finds that all dimensions of negative brand experiences significantly influence both regret and brand hate. Consumer regret further amplifies brand hate, intensifying its emotional impact, and drives the dissemination of NWOM. This …

2025 Acssc Program, Acssc Planning Committee

Annual Celebration for Student Scholarship and Creativity

No abstract provided.

The Enterprise Work Management Framework’S Impact On Organizational Effectiveness, Jessica J. Crowley

JWU Dissertations & Theses

Organizations need to be effective to stay relevant in a constantly changing environment (Mergel et al., 2019). No pre-existing theoretical frameworks provide leaders with a tested, holistic work management strategy that is proven to positively impact organizational effectiveness (Mergel et al., 2019). Without structured work management practices, organizations experience low levels of work visibility which translates into reactive decision-making and decreased organizational effectiveness (Burke, 2024).

The newly created Enterprise Work Management (EWM) framework provides leaders with a holistic work management strategy that is proven to positively impact organizational effectiveness. The findings from this study address a gap in organizational effectiveness …

The Impact Of Globalization On Human Resources Policy And Performance, Katherine H. Alford

Senior Honors Theses

Globalization is a rapidly growing phenomenon that impacts individuals, governments, and businesses. Businesses develop and run on polices implemented through HR and employee performance that drives efficiency. Therefore, the relationship between these two topics is vital to understand the adaptations that need to be made and why. Changes can be made on both a macro and micro level addressing each area of concern. Addressing the issue is the first step followed by implementation into HR polices through the employee handbook.

Analyzing Northwest Ohio Industries And Utilizing The Shape Program To Increase Sustainable Practices, Abigail Stucker

Honors Projects

The purpose of this project is to dive deeper into the corporate perspective on sustainability and why manufacturing companies should take action on such an important topic. Is there a true balance for businesses between increasing profits and reducing waste? Why should businesses care about being branded as a sustainable company? What efforts do companies need to take to truly be branded as “sustainable?” These are questions that drove the research and development of this project. After looking into these guiding questions, this project develops a program to help monitor and measure the successful sustainability practices that various Northwest Ohio …

2025-04-23 Message From The President, Morehead State University. Office Of The President.

Staff Congress Records

A message sent by the Office of the President to the campus community on April 23, 2025, regarding upcoming events on campus, recognition of Women's Golf Team, personnel updates, new Doctor of Engineering Program, department name changes, and building construction and repairs.

Addressing The Accounting Pipeline Leak: Academic And Socioeconomic Barriers To Entry, Retention, And Belonging, Karlene Deng

Honors Theses

Many undergraduate students express an early interest in accounting, yet the actual number who later go on to matriculate into the profession is significantly lower. Despite efforts by educational institutions and the accounting industry to attract students to the profession, accounting programs experience high attrition rates. Using a survey-based approach, this research provides insights into factors that influence students to (1) enter university as declared accounting majors, (2) switch into accounting during their time at university, or (3) leave the accounting program. Additionally, this study examines the role of academic and socioeconomic backgrounds in shaping these decisions. By pinpointing potential …

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 …

Latino Student Engagement In Rsos At Hcob, Angel Cordero

Honors Theses

Latino students at the Haworth College of Business (HCOB) are significantly underrepresented in Registered Student Organizations (RSOs), raising concerns about inclusivity and engagement within the college’s extracurricular community. This study aims to identify the barriers preventing Latino business students from participating in RSOs, exploring factors such as cultural representation, language preferences, financial constraints, and perceived social inclusion. Using a Qualtrics survey distributed to Latino business students at Western Michigan University, this research collects qualitative and quantitative data to assess their experiences and perspectives on campus involvement.

Findings reveal that many Latino students feel disconnected from existing RSOs due to a …