Perceptions Of Rural School Resource Officers On Training, Roles, And Interactions With Students In Special Populations, Mary Jane M. Allen

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative inductive study was conducted with rural school districts located in the Middle Grand Division of Tennessee. School Resource Officers' (SROs) and K–12 school administrators’ perceptions of their roles were assessed. Perceptions of school policing from both samples were assessed regarding SRO training, roles, and expectations for working with school law enforcement officials. This also included respondents' views on how students with disabilities are treated. The research conducted in rural Middle Tennessee counties examined SROs’ and K–12 administrators’ perceptions through data collected from in-depth open-ended interviews and a pre-written analysis. The proliferation of police officers assigned to schools beginning …

Attitudes Toward Harm Reduction Among Criminal Legal Staff, Diamond Meadows

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are prevalent among individuals interacting with the criminal legal system (Moore et al., 2019). Despite the high rates of individuals with SUDs interacting with the criminal legal system, there continue to be barriers to integrating harm reduction approaches within the system. Harm reduction approaches (i.e., medication assisted treatment) are effective in reducing the negative consequences associated with substance use and the pathway to recovery for many. The purposes of this study are to: 1. examine the psychometric properties of the Harm Reduction Acceptability Scale (HRAS) among criminal legal staff, 2. explore individual differences in staff attitudes …

Academic And Demographic Predictors Of Retention And Persistence In Business Programs: Post-Covid Cohorts Of Traditional And Ncccs Transfer Students, Matthew K. Crump

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This quantitative study examined academic and demographic predictors of first-year retention and major persistence among traditional first-year and North Carolina community college transfer students enrolled in undergraduate business programs. Guided by Tinto’s 1993 Model of Student Retention and Astin’s 1984 Theory of Student Involvement, the research focused on students who entered two AACSB-accredited institutions within the UNC System during Fall 2021, Fall 2022, and Fall 2023 as traditional first-year students or as transfer students from North Carolina community colleges.

Institutional data from the Banner Student Information System provided the basis for logistic regression analyses that examined predictors including high school …

Durable, Distributed Llm Inference On Cots Devices, Brycen E. Dunn

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The advancement of Large Language Models (LLMs) has fundamentally changed the nature of natural language processing. The substantial memory requirements of frontier models creates a significant barrier to entry, centralizing inference. This thesis presents the design and implementation of a distributed inference framework designed to democratize LLMs by leveraging commodity devices. The framework combines the resources of heterogeneous COTS devices into a unified compute pool, enabling the inference of models exceeding a single device's memory capacity. A novel Task Partitioning Engine (TPE) analyzes model architectures, profiles node capabilities, and supports pipeline and expert parallelism strategies. The primary contribution is a …

Empowering Futures: An Examination Of Educator Perceptions In Supporting Students With Disabilities In Post-Secondary Transition, Carlinda J. Spehar-Shaw

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative study was to examine educators' perceptions of their roles in students' post-secondary transition. Federal mandates require special education teachers to be key components in supporting students during this process. The literature examines the multifaceted components of the transition process, including Kohler’s Taxonomy 2.0 and Schlossberg’s Transition Framework.

Data were collected using a one-on-one, semi-structured interview protocol to examine educators' perceptions of their roles in students' post-secondary transition. This strategy allowed the researcher to understand the participants' backgrounds and experiences while analyzing perceptions of their role in the post-secondary transition. A pre-designed set of interview …

Post-Vote Tampering In Nigerian Elections And The Role Of Blockchain-Enabled Electoral Systems, Ransome Chukwubuikem Enechukwu

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Post-vote tampering during the collation and transmission of election results remains a persistent challenge in Nigerian elections, enabling manipulation of already-cast votes and weakening public trust in electoral outcomes. Existing technological interventions, including biometric voter accreditation and digital result transmission systems, improve voter authentication but do not adequately secure the post-vote result collation process. This thesis proposes a blockchain-enabled framework designed to protect the integrity of election results during the collation and transmission stages. Using a Design Science Research methodology, the study develops a permissioned blockchain framework based on Hyperledger Fabric that records polling-unit results as immutable ledger entries and …

Psychometric Properties Of The Interpersonal Style Questionnaire (Isq) And The Patterns Of Thinking Survey (Pots), Genevieve Allison

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Self-regulation is a complex concept that includes multiple interacting factors, and it is studied across multiple fields of psychological research. Various theoretical models have been offered to explain this concept. Although models differ in their definitions of self-regulation, all consistently posit that it consists of emotional, behavioral, interpersonal, and cognitive domains. The current study examined the psychometric properties of two novel measures – 1) McVay and Stinson Interpersonal Style Questionnaire (ISQ) and 2) Stinson and McVay Patterns of Thinking Survey (POTS) – utilizing both a clinical and nonclinical sample. Results indicate that these measures are comprised of three factors across …

Every Voice Counts: Employee Engagement In The Strategic Planning Process, Ashley Sergiadis

ETSU Faculty Works

This session presents practical strategies for engaging all employees in the strategic planning process. The presenter will showcase a bottom-up approach in which employees outside formal leadership roles led the development of the library's mission, vision, values, goals, and objectives, using input from every staff member. The session will also highlight employee reflections on the process, illustrating both its successes and areas for improvement. Attendees will receive templates and materials to adapt this framework, ensuring that all voices are represented and that strategic initiatives truly reflect the perspectives of the entire organization.

Historical Development Of Vaccines And The Public's Response, Kristen Montgomery, Samantha Prince Bsn, Rn, Melissa Ealey Bsn, Rn, Jarrad Morelock Bsn, Rn, Shelby Johnson Bsn, Rn, Kokeshia Crosby Bsn, Rn, Stephanies Himes Bsn, Rn, Theresia Hinton Bsn, Rn

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Purpose: Vaccines, which have become one of the most important medical accomplishments in the prevention of communicable diseases, have a history that dates to the use of variolation as early as the 11th century. The purpose of this study is to explore the historical development of vaccines and to determine the characteristics that emerged when new vaccines were developed.

Aims: The specific aim of this study is to understand if all vaccines have been received about the same by the general public or if there are certain different or diverse characteristics associated with the introduction of different vaccines.

Methods: A …

The Impact Of Social Interaction On Patient Well-Being With Transition Into Long-Term Care Settings: A Review Of Interventions For Improved Patient Outcomes, Helen Whitney Harmon

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Abstract

Purpose: When individual patients are transitioned from home or acute care settings to more long-term care environments such as skilled nursing units or assisted living facilities, the residents are at an increased risk of experiencing loneliness, which is linked to depression, anxiety, and increasing cognitive decline, and other detrimental outcomes.

Aims: Combinations of peer-reviewed qualitative and quantitative research studies were analyzed to determine what factors contributed to changes in patient well-being, mental health and overall quality of life during these transitions.

Methods: One article focusing on preventable healthcare transitions in patient population was able to link higher medical acuity …

The Role Of Nurses In Robotic-Assisted Surgery, Tehya Wiedemeier, Gretchen Faith Grambow, Ella Froehlich, Whitney Anna Holmes

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

The research examines the evolving role of nurses in robotic-assisted surgery. As the technology advances, the nursing role is expanding beyond the traditional responsibilities. The method of literature review for this study was completed through deductive content analysis based off three data bases called Science Direct, PubMed (Medline), and Scopus. Current research is working towards trying to bring educational awareness to the role of nurses within the robotic surgery environment and what new skills they will have to acquire.  For nurses to successfully fit into the role of assisting within robotic surgery, they will need to obtain a higher level …

A Systematic Literature Review Examining Suicide Risk Factors In Older Adults, Carolyn Bivens

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Introduction & Background: Suicide in older adults is a increasingly prevalent tragedy worldwide, and rates in North America have uniquely increased over the past two decades. The context of the cultural environment of North America and population-specific factors in the elderly must be explored to protect this vulnerable group.

Purpose Statement Question: In older adults living in North America, what experiences and risk factors influence the development and severity of suicidal thoughts and behaviors?

Literature Review: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flowchart guided the search of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature …

Implementing The Abcdef Bundle In A Rural Critical Care, Kayla Hubbard

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Patients admitted to the critical care unit are at risk of debilitating adverse outcomes including Delirium, Post intensive care syndrome (PICS), debility, wounds, depression, and both mental and physical impairments. Complications related to ICU care can easily be combatted by using a multidisciplinary approach. The ABCDEF bundle serves to incorporate all aspects of a critically ill patients care in a simple, easy to follow bundle focusing on assessment of pain (A), both spontaneous awakening ang breathing trials (B), choice of sedation/analgesic (C), delirium (D), early mobility (E), and family involvement (F). A quality improvement project was designed and piloted in …

Using Path Analysis To Examine The Psychological Well-Being Model For U.S. College Students, Pi-Ming Yeh, Cheng-Huei Chiao, Gavin Waters

Epsilon Sigma at-Large Research Conference

Background: College students’ psychological well-being and mental health issues are very important in this society. Little is known about a comprehensive psychological well-being model for college students.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was using Path Analysis to examine the Development of Personality and Psychological Well-Being Model among US college students.

Methods: This was a cross sectional, descriptive design. The 481 participants were recruited from nursing and business college students in the United States. After IRB approval, the trained researchers explained this study to college students. After agreeing to participate, they signed an informed consent form. Upon completion of a …

One-Year Follow-Up Of A Frontal Sinus Mucocele Presenting With Ptosis, Zachary Shelton

Dr. Jay W. Boland Research Day

A mucocele is a benign mucus-filled cyst that forms after obstruction of paranasal sinus drainage. Enlargement can erode adjacent bone, producing mass effect symptoms such as congestion, headache, and proptosis. Rarely, orbital extension can lead to ptosis from compression of Cranial Nerve III (the oculomotor nerve). This report presents a one-year clinical and imaging follow-up in a 79-year-old male after surgical management of a frontal sinus mucocele presenting with ptosis. Initial examination demonstrated right-sided eyelid ptosis with mild restriction on right upward gaze. Prior MRI and CT displayed a right frontal sinus mucocele with sinus expansion encroaching on the right …

"Communicating Drought Outlooks To The Agricultural Sector In The Southeast And Midwest United States", Cadence Oliver

Dr. Jay W. Boland Research Day

"There are several challenges associated with the process of communicating drought outlooks; namely, uncertainty, and its several hypothetical impacts on the Agricultural sector throughout the process of preparation to harvesting. The Southeast and Midwest regions of the United States play an important role in the country’s Agricultural Sector, making it essential that their producers receive clear and certain communication regarding drought that they can trust. This project dives into the theme of uncertainty through a qualitative study and analysis of data, focusing on the “intermediary” and their relationship with communicating drought outlooks to agricultural producers using the Climate Prediction Center’s …

Family Structure And Elementary Students’ English Language Arts (Ela) Achievement: A Quantitative Case Study, Sophia Coulter

Dr. Jay W. Boland Research Day

There are many factors that affect a child’s literacy abilities, especially their family structure. Research shows that children in two-parent homes, particularly ones where parents are married and are the biological parents, have greater academic success. However, little research has examined how the number of caregivers, rather than household structure, relates to literacy achievement. This undergraduate honors thesis study seeks to address this gap by examining patterns in English Language Arts (ELA) standardized test scores of students in third grade and the number of adult caregivers in the home. Understanding these patterns may contribute to the ability of educators to …

2026 April 13 - Staff Senate Agenda And Minutes, Staff Senate, East Tennessee State University

Staff Senate Agendas and Minutes

No abstract provided.

Etsu Today - Spring 2026, University Marketing And Communication, East Tennessee State University

ETSU Today [magazine]

Bucs Go Beyond

Celebrating ETSU's Impact

At East Tennessee State University, our pursuit of knowledge is inseparable from our commitment to service. That commitment is evident not only in our classrooms and laboratories but also throughout the region we serve. Through hands-on learning, cross-sector partnerships, and a deep sense of purpose, our students, faculty, and staff extend ETSU’s reach far beyond our formal campus borders.

This year, ETSU was honored with the Carnegie Foundation’s Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a distinction awarded to just a fraction of institutions nationwide. This recognition affirms the ongoing and intentional work taking place across …

2026 April - Mary V. Jordan Center Newsletter, Mary V. Jordan Center, East Tennessee State University

Mary V. Jordan Center Newsletters

No abstract provided.

2026 March 23 - Faculty Senate Agenda And Minutes, Faculty Senate, East Tennessee State University

Faculty Senate Agendas and Minutes

No abstract provided.

2026 March 17 - Medical Student Education Committee Minutes, Medical Student Education Committee, East Tennessee State University

Medical Student Education Committee Minutes

No abstract provided.

2026 March 9 - Staff Senate Agenda And Minutes, Staff Senate, East Tennessee State University

Staff Senate Agendas and Minutes

No abstract provided.

2026 March 5 - From My Notepads Newsletter, Office Of The President, East Tennessee State University, Brian Noland

From My Notepads: A Newsletter from President Brian Noland

No abstract provided.

2026 February 25 - Undergraduate Curriculum Council Minutes, Undergraduate Curriculum Council, East Tennessee State University

Undergraduate Curriculum Council Minutes

No abstract provided.

2026 February 17 - Medical Student Education Committee Minutes, Medical Student Education Committee, East Tennessee State University

Medical Student Education Committee Minutes

No abstract provided.

2026 February 11 - Undergraduate Curriculum Council Minutes, Undergraduate Curriculum Council, East Tennessee State University

Undergraduate Curriculum Council Minutes

No abstract provided.

Using Emerging Technologies In The Introductory Managerial Accounting Course To Increase Interest In The Accounting Major And Technology Competencies, Ouadie Akaaboune, Michelle Freeman, Mark Friedman

Faculty Open Access Works

Including technology in the accounting curriculum encourages the adoption of active learning whereby students explore accounting from an individualized manner that better engages students, motivates them to problem solve, and hopefully, allows them to enjoy the learning process and gain more from it. From a curriculum planning standpoint, the introduction of active learning-based technology curriculums also provides information about the perceptions students have about themselves, the accounting profession, and the role technology plays in accounting. Collectively, all this information can be used to guide student interest in accounting as an academic major.

This research article studies the implementation of Cuddly …

2026 February - Mary V. Jordan Center Newsletter, Mary V. Jordan Center, East Tennessee State University

Mary V. Jordan Center Newsletters

No abstract provided.

2026 January 28 - Undergraduate Curriculum Council Minutes, Undergraduate Curriculum Council, East Tennessee State University

Undergraduate Curriculum Council Minutes

No abstract provided.