Digital Commons Network^™

First Annual Advances In Business Education Conference 2025 Proceedings, Kelsey Metz, Joshua Ray

Advances in Business Education (ABE) Conference Proceedings

Conference Overview: The First Annual Advances in Business Education (ABE) Conference was held on May 16, 2025, at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee. Hosted by the LMU School of Business, the ABE Conference was established to promote teaching excellence through innovation and collaboration in business education. With a focus on fostering meaningful dialogue among educators, researchers, and students, the conference welcomed participants from across disciplines and institutions. The event was structured around three key tracks:

Pedagogy & Teaching Excellence: Showcasing innovative teaching methods and strategies for enhancing student learning and engagement.

Business Research: Presenting research focused on advancing knowledge …

Barriers Faced By College Sexual Violence Survivors Who Identify As A Racial And Gender Minority, Brittany A. Gordon

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Sexual violence is a significant issue in the US, and specifically on college campuses. Students who identify as a racial and gender minority have been found to be at increased risk. While research has examined the barriers to disclosure, reporting, or help-seeking among survivors within higher education who identify as a racial minority and those who identify as a gender minority, no qualitative studies have looked at the barriers faced by student survivors who identify as both a racial and gender minority. The purpose of this study was to understand the barriers faced by students who identify as a racial …

The Teaching Experiences Of Black Women Faculty In Educator Preparation Providers Licensure Programs At Predominantly White Institutions, Tiffiney M. Atterberry

Theses and Dissertations

Understanding the experiences that Black women faculty encounter in instructional spaces of Educator Preparation Providers licensure programs (hereafter referred to as EPPs) at predominantly White institutions are important for institutional change and reform to occur. In spaces of EPPs, Black women faculty are forced to cope and deal with racialized issues such as feelings of social isolation, a lack of inclusion, acts of microaggression from students, disrespectful acts, and students challenging their knowledge and credentials. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how Black women faculty narrate their teaching experiences in EPPs at PWIs. The use of Collins’ …

Faculty Roles And Responsibilities Supporting Extension Health Initiatives: Suggestions To Maximize Campus-Field Partnerships, Christine A. Fruhauf, Maria Delgado, Sue Schneider

Journal of Extension

The past several decades of Extension scholarship have addressed topics related to creating pathways for stronger campus-field based connections. Several attempts have been made to support such efforts, including creating content-driven teams of research/teaching faculty and Extension professionals; state-wide tours where campus-based faculty and administrators visit with Extension staff in their county offices and in the field; and making new campus-based faculty and staff hires with a percentage of Extension appointments. Although these strategies have merit, addressing how these initiatives can support the goal of strengthening the work of campus- and field-based faculty to influence the mission of land-grant institutions …

Gardening Through The Pages: Making A State-Specific Catalog With Community Science Data, Stephen Stresow, Stephen Reiners, Ashley Miller Helmholdt

Journal of Extension

Taking a page from commercial seed catalogs, Cornell Garden-Based Learning created a state-specific catalog using top-rated vegetable varieties. Taste, yield, ease-to-grow, and overall ratings were collected over the past decade through community science garden programs. The catalog combines the reputable, research-backed information Extension information with the marketability of a seed catalog. This project streamlined information across multiple sites into a single document while presenting it in a novel way (for Extension). We note how we collected data, created it, feedback from gardeners, and offer suggestions for improvements.

Expanding Extension Involvement Through An Undergraduate Life Skills Course, Stacey F. Stearns, Aditi Rao

Journal of Extension

Extension traditionally involves undergraduate students through experiential learning and internships. We sought to develop a new model, and created an undergraduate life skills course for students in our college that featured Extension educators as guest lecturers in areas aligned with their specialty. Universities have a stable population of potential program participants, volunteers, and employees. It is imperative that we raise awareness about Extension while the students are enrolled in our institutions. Creating a for-credit undergraduate course that teaches life skills through Extension programs has tangible benefits for both the students and the Extension system.

Worship Without Barriers, C. Niigel Porter

UNLV Transfer Student Seminar Poster (COE 303)

Issue: Church accessibility and digital inclusion.

Controversy: Does livestreaming strengthen or weaken spiritual community

Viewpoint 1: Barna Group (2020) – Found that online church gives people more access, especially during and after the pandemic.

Viewpoint 2: Pew Research Center (2021) – Reports some worry that virtual worship reduces personal connection and long-term engagement.

Viewpoint 3: Campbell (2012) – Argues that digital religion is evolving and churches must balance tradition with technology.

My View (Graff & Birkenstein, 2021): Livestreaming is a ministry tool that helps include people who are sick, isolated, or unable to attend in person—it expands, not replaces, spiritual …

The Lasting Impact Of Belonging: Exploring The Relationship Between Undergraduate Experiences And Black Alumni Contributions, Kauna Greene

Graduate Theses & Dissertations

Black alumni at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) remain underrepresented in alumni engagement and philanthropic research, despite a long and well-documented tradition of Black philanthropy. This qualitative, phenomenological study examines the relationship between undergraduate experiences and the post-graduation engagement of Black alumni from a private PWI in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Guided by Strayhorn's (2019) theory of sense of belonging, the study investigates what motivates Black alumni to contribute financially, non-financially (through mentorship, event attendance, and volunteering), or not at all, and how undergraduate feelings of belonging shape those decisions. Data were collected through an anonymous online survey …

There’S A Crisis Brewing In Higher Education, Caroline M. Graham

Dissertations, 2020-current

This dissertation addresses the increasing need to enhance crisis preparedness among student affairs practitioners in higher education. With the growing frequency and complexity of campus crises—ranging from mental health emergencies to incidents of violence, the preparedness and self-efficacy of those in student support roles are paramount. This three-manuscript dissertation explores crisis intervention training, crisis self-efficacy, and the lived experiences of student affairs practitioners navigating campus crises. The first manuscript provides a conceptual overview of the gaps in current crisis intervention training within graduate programs, advocating for the integration of core competencies informed by accreditation standards and professional associations. The second …

Perceptions Of Artificial Intelligence In Higher Education, Kelly Freeman

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIED), is a growing field of research and practice in higher education. AIED is increasingly permeating the student journey, from admissions through graduation, and is affiliated with tools such as early alert systems, adaptative tutoring, predictor systems, and language learning chatbots. These emergent technologies provide previously unforeseen opportunities to advance student success, such as widespread individualization, yet pose challenges related to technical literacy and ethical and safety concerns. After the initial excitement surrounding AI chatbots in 2022, catalyzed by the introduction of ChatGPT, the pace of technological innovation continues to accelerate, with …

Higher Education Leaders’ Perspectives Regarding Faculty Attrition, Alexandria Angel Draper

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Perceptions of higher education leaders (HELs) regarding faculty attrition and effective strategies to help manage challenges associated with voluntary and involuntary resignations were unknown. Guided by Bush’s educational management theory, the purpose of this basic qualitative study was to explore HELs’ perceptions regarding faculty attrition. Research questions investigated perceptions of HELs regarding faculty attrition and how they perceived faculty attrition in their institutions. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 HELs, including academic deans, vice provosts, department chairpersons, program directors, and board of regents members. Thematic analysis was conducted using open and axial coding of the interview data. Themes included provision …

The Role Of Popular Culture In Decolonial Transformative Learning: A Racially Minoritized Adult Educator's Journey, Riyad Shahjahan

Dialogue: The Interdisciplinary Journal of Popular Culture and Pedagogy

While a growing body of literature examines the role of popular culture in transformative learning, much of it centers on fostering transformative experiences among learners, rather than educators themselves. This paper addresses that gap by exploring how popular culture enhances transformative learning for racially minoritized adult educators. Drawing from my experiences as a graduate instructor at a predominantly white institution, I reflect on how engaging with popular cultural texts facilitated my own transformative learning within my teaching practice. Grounded in decolonial theory, which emphasizes the inclusion of Indigenous and marginalized knowledges while confronting contemporary colonial oppressions, my reflexive approach highlights …

Fostering Belonging: Understanding The Transfer Student Experience At Usd, Ruth Elena Santos

M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects

In many universities, student affairs programming is primarily designed with traditional students in mind which often overlooks the unique needs of transfer students. This study aims to examine how current USD orientation programming impacts the sense of belonging for transfer students. The central question guiding this research is: How can the sense of belonging for transfer students be improved? The study consisted of three cycles: a focus group conducted during OLÉ Weekend, a survey administered during National Transfer Week, and interviews held during Spring Orientation. The outcomes suggest that transfer students value identity-affirming events, early peer connections, and consistent engagement …

Improving Interconnectedness Among Student Affairs Conduct Processes On The University Of San Diego’S Campus, Oliver H. Kushen

M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects

The purpose of my research was to learn how student conduct systems within The Division of Student Affairs at the University of San Diego (USD) could be improved by staff and students learning from one another. My research involved guiding staff and students from various conduct processes across campus to learn from each other through improved communication and restorative practices, while ensuring USD’s Mission was emphasized. Research cycles included restorative justice circles, interviews, and a survey. Common themes were the importance of the restorative mission, a focus on student wellness, and a desire to learn from one another through joint …

A Prism Of Blackness At Historically Black Institutions: Experiences Of Hbcu Students With Marginalized Racial, Gender, And Sexuality Identities, Gaelle Amazan

Dissertations - ALL

This dissertation is a qualitative study of how Black individuals with marginalized gender and sexuality identities (MGSIs) who currently attend or recently graduated from HBCUs make meaning of their campus environment, and how HBCUs can be more inclusive for them. Data from this study came from interviews with seven participants representing four public and two private HBCUs from the Middle Atlantic and Southeastern regions of the United States in the year 2022. The dissertation explains research on the significance of HBCUs and the students who attend these institutions. Black Feminist Theory, Black Trans Feminism, Queer Theory, Quare Theory and Intersectionality …

Strategic Audit: Wells Fargo & Company, Nathan Q. Gaughan

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

No abstract provided.

Empowering Voices: The Impact Of Collective Storytelling Within College Support Programs, Sara Rock

M.A. in Higher Education Leadership: Action Research Projects

The Torero Renaissance Scholars Program (TRSP) supports undergraduate and graduate students who have experienced foster care, homelessness, or who are emancipated minors or in legal guardianship. My action research aimed to explore and improve TRSP practices related to sharing personal narratives, community building, and fostering mutual understanding between students, campus, and community partners. Using an action research model focused on community engagement, I conducted three research cycles involving narrative inquiry-based individual interviews and surveys to evaluate group activities. Findings revealed a tension around sharing personal stories and highlighted the importance of self-authorship and holistic mentorship. Interviews showed students prioritize resources …

Spring Commencement, 2025, Marshall University

Marshall University Commencement

Program for the Commencement of Marshall University, Saturday, May 10, 2025 held at the Mountain Health Arena in Huntington, West Virginia.

Fifty-Ninth Commencement (Undergraduate), Sacred Heart University

Commencement Programs

Program for undergraduate ceremonies, May 10, 2025.

Closing The Gap In Pre-Law Preparation: Founding A Pre-Law Club At Ole Miss, Nicolantonio Prentosito

Honors Theses

Attending public school from kindergarten through 12^th grade in a struggling Ohio school district, I experienced the inequities in the public education system from a young age, particularly with tests like the SAT that can have a major impact on our futures. After becoming a National Merit Finalist, I wanted to help even the playing field for students from poor districts like mine by founding a non-profit, Scholar Power, to offer free PSAT, SAT, and ACT education and preparation.

Starting college, I recognized similar inequities with the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and the pre-law process in general. As …

El Podcast Como Herramienta Pedagógica Entre Docentes Del Nivel Superior En Una Escuela Privada Del Este De Puerto Rico, Lorell Marie Varela Morales

Theses and Dissertations

El objeto del estudio se centró en comprender la disposición de los docentes de nivel

superior hacia el uso de podcasts como recurso pedagógico en una escuela del este de Puerto Rico. Este análisis abordó las percepciones, actitudes y factores que influyen en la

aceptación de esta innovadora herramienta educativa. Se identificaron los beneficios

percibidos de los podcasts como herramienta pedagógica, así como los desafíos y

preocupaciones asociados con su integración en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje.

Los modelos teóricos que sustentan este estudio se basaron en la revisión de especialistas

en innovación y aceptación tecnológica por parte de los docentes …

Department Chair And Faculty Perceptions Of Organizational Communication In The Post Covid-19 Era, Gabriele Cafone Zengewald

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to understand the perceptions and experiences of department chairs and full-time faculty with organizational communication during a time of organizational transition post COVID-19. Utilizing the conceptual framework of communication satisfaction developed by Downs and Hazen (1977), the study used semi-structured interviews and a thematic analysis of pandemic communications. Findings indicated that engagement, transparency, and clarity were essential in creating positive perceptions of communication with department chairs playing a critical role between upper-level administration and faculty. Facutly noted greater trust and satisfaction when communication allowed for two-way dialogue and was delivered through clear …

Pathways To Physical Education Teacher Education: Understanding Pete Faculty Careers And Lives, Alexander Eugene Kurtzman

Health, Exercise, and Sports Sciences ETDs

Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) faculty play a critical role in shaping the future of physical education through teaching, research, and service. However, their career trajectories and professional experiences remain underexamined in the PETE literature. This dissertation combines two studies, one is a mixed-methods study and the second is a qualitative study which explore the complex pathways and socialization processes of PETE faculty. Study 1 investigated PETE faculty members’ perceptions of how prior K–12 physical education teaching experience influences their work in higher education. Drawing on Occupational Socialization Theory (OST) and the Faculty Role Socialization Model (FRSM), data from 53 …

2025 Undergraduate And Graduate Commencement, Lindenwood University

Commencement Programs

2025 Lindenwood University Commencement program.

Recent Trends In Medical Education To Sustain An Effective Practice - A Systematic Review, Sharon Pricilla Jeevan Kumar Leela Ms., Amtuz Zehra Dr, Ayesha Siddiqhha Mukthar Ms

International Journal of Health and Allied Sciences

Learning processes in medical practices in medicinal schools put more emphasis on the hard sciences than they do on developing soft skills like empathy and communication. For this reason, the medical humanities emerged to provide a "different" take on the creative process. Medical ethics, the doctor-patient relationship, clinical research, mental illness, and professionalism are just a few of the topics that have been utilized to discuss in medical school. A strong connection between classroom learning and clinical experience is crucial for medical school graduates. Students graduating from a medical program are expected to have experience with patient care, clinical procedures, …

Fifty-Ninth Commencement (Graduate), Sacred Heart University

Commencement Programs

Program for graduate ceremonies, May 6 & 7,  2025.

May 2025 Faculty Senate Packet, University Of Nebraska At Kearney Faculty Senate

Faculty Senate Packets

No abstract provided.

Experiences Of Support And Success For Students Of Color In The Midwifery Educational Setting, Laura Jenson

Dissertations and Theses

The United States spends more on healthcare than any other developed country, yet perinatal health outcomes are among the worst, particularly for Black and Indigenous pregnant women and people. Structural and societal racism has contributed greatly to these inequities, and while a diverse perinatal healthcare workforce has the potential to mitigate the impact of pervasive racism, professions such as nurse-midwifery have evolved over time to be predominately white. The purpose of this study is to explore how students of color experience support and apply personal strategies for success in the midwifery educational setting. A basic qualitative study was done using …

Call For Manuscripts, Michele J. Koomen, Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Jessica Williams

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

No abstract provided.

Call For Manuscripts, Michele J. Koomen, Thomastine Sarchet-Maher, Jessica Williams

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

No abstract provided.