Digital Commons Network^™

An Analysis Of Florida's Dual Enrollment Laws: How Florida's Model Is Uniquely Protected By The Fourteenth Amendment, William H. Hamman

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Florida’s dual enrollment program is an offering within the state’s basic education package, allowing secondary students to participate in postsecondary courses while simultaneously earning secondary and postsecondary credit. In Florida, around 80,000 students participate annually, and 1.5 million students are within the grade range eligible for participation in the program. This thesis analyzes how the program, and subsequently eligible students, are granted constitutional protections under the Fourteenth Amendment. The author conducted this research to highlight the expansive nature of constitutional law and demonstrate how Florida’s model is unique among state-mandated dual/concurrent enrollment programs. To conduct the necessary research, the author …

Lifetime History Of Concussions In Relation To Blind Perceptual Distance Estimation Ability, Mackenzie K. Miller

Honors Undergraduate Theses

This study examined the relationship between visuospatial estimation and a lifetime history of concussions. Current literature on concussions investigates visuospatial working memory and estimation ability separately, but not conjointly. In order to examine this relationship, a novel neuropsychological task was designed to measure visuospatial estimation ability in working memory, named the Perceptual Estimation Test (PET). This novel task was designed with three variations that would increase in complexity as they progressed, and each variation would include three trials. Participants were scored on their accuracy performance during the PET. Participants aged 18-25 were recruited from students attending the University of Central …

Holistic Support For College Students Navigating Food Allergies & Food Insecurity At Higher Education Institutions, Chloe Milliron

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Both food allergies and food insecurity are public health concerns that are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, there has been limited discussion on how to support individuals who experience these two challenges concurrently, particularly at higher education institutions. In this study, I examined the intersection of food allergies and food insecurity among students at the University of Central Florida (UCF). There is a focus on the disparities in access to safe foods, financial responsibility, healthcare, and overall well-being. A total of 221 UCF students completed the survey distributed, which assessed food security status using the USDA’s Household Food Security Survey Module, …

The Paradox Of Financial Competence In Tourism Smes In West Africa: Accounting Knowledge, Gender, And Tax Bribery Risk In Ghana And Sierra Leone, Ersem Karadag, Melih Madanoglu

Journal of Hospitality Financial Management

This study examines the paradox of financial competence among tourism SMEs in West Africa, where business owners’ expertise in accounting and finance, rather than shielding firms from corruption, may increase their exposure to tax bribery. Using firm-level data from Ghana and Sierra Leone, the analysis reveals that financially competent entrepreneurs are more likely to face bribery requests due to increased transparency and visibility in extractive institutional environments. Logistic regression results show a positive association between financial competence and bribery exposure, with the effect amplified for women-owned firms. The findings highlight a behavioral and institutional mechanism in which competence, signaling financial …

Florida Statewide Coastal Restoration Guide, Melinda J. Donnelly, Matthew Martin, Christen Fleming, Kelly Kibler, Linda Walters, Patrick Shearer, Lauren Jennison, Erika Lin, George Zaragoza

Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works

The Statewide Coastal Restoration Guide (SCRG) is a comprehensive planning resource developed through a collaboration between Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), University of Central Florida (UCF), and Resource Environmental Solutions (RES) to strengthen and unify shoreline restoration efforts across Florida. With over 4,500 miles of estuarine shoreline, Florida’s coasts are vital to the state’s ecological health, economic prosperity, and community resilience. However, they face increasing threats from sea level rise, stronger storms, erosion, habitat degradation, and development. The SCRG responds to these challenges by providing science-based, non-regulatory guidance for implementing resilient, nature-based restoration strategies that protect both ecosystems and …

Baseball-State Of The Game, Richard C. Crepeau

On Sport and Society

As we enter the final week of the baseball season, it might be time to reflect on the state of the game. This is generally the point in the season when there is a rash of jeremiads on the condition and health of the former national pastime. Baseball people seem to always see the game in decline. Over the years, I have dismissed these as overblown and off the mark, because generally they are. Now, for the first time in my multiple decades as a baseball fan, I am ready to join the mournful chorus.

Zinc Or Swim: Investigating Zinc Pollution From Restoration Materials, Megan R. Jensik

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Zinc is an essential nutrient, but can be toxic at high concentrations, negatively affecting various biological functions. Gabions are galvanized metals coated in zinc that are used for many human purposes, including coastal restoration efforts attempting to avoid using plastic materials. However, gabions can degrade in marine environments, potentially leaching metal into the water and soil. There is a knowledge gap regarding the occurrence and impacts of zinc pollution in the areas where these gabions are deployed, including the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). To address this, sediment samples were collected from the IRL and analyzed for their physical and chemical …

Exploring The Impact Of Pain Management Agreements On Physician-Patient Relationship: A Qualitative Analysis From The Patient’S Perspective In Opioid Analgesic Treatment, Shriya Doranala

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Pain management agreements are increasingly used in the treatment of chronic pain with opioid analgesics. These agreements aim to reduce misuse of opioids by providing patients clear regulations and requirements to follow during treatment. This study seeks to assess the effect of pain management agreement for opioid treatment on the patient-physician relationship from the perspective of patients with a pain management agreement in the past two years. We recruited participants for the semi-structured interview through online media groups dedicated to patients with chronic pain that is treated with opioids. A cohort of eight individuals recruited from September 2023 to January …

Mental Health Perceptions Among Caribbean Adults In The United States, Ambika Ramjawam

Honors Undergraduate Theses

The purpose of this study was to investigate mental health literacy (MHL) among Caribbean American adults and to assess the extent to which mental health perceptions (MHP) and acculturative stress contribute to variations in MHL. A cross-sectional, quantitative survey design was utilized to examine MHL, MHP, and acculturative stress among a sample of 138 participants. Pearson correlation analyses were conducted to assess associations among MHL, MHP, acculturation, and age. Independent samples t-tests and one-way ANOVAs were performed to examine demographics across key variables. Findings revealed moderate levels of MHL (M = 4.7, SD = .99) and a weak, positive correlation …

Comparing Interactive Versus Static Educational Images On Student Learning Outcomes, Noah Schwartz

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Static images routinely accompany text in educational sources such as textbooks, articles, and websites to convey complex, educational information. These are generally effective; however, current technology allows for interactive images that seem to enhance engagement. How effective are these interactive images? The present study investigated whether an interactive image produced better learning outcomes compared to a static image using the same text. Specifically, this study examined whether interactive images affected comprehension, memory, engagement, and cognitive load differently than static images. In this study, data from 153 college student participants were analyzed. First, participants were assigned to read about the neuropsychology …

123 Studies Use In The Review, Abdul-Akeem Sadiq

Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works

No abstract provided.

Reimagining Main Street: Themed Experience Design As A Tool For Small Town Revitalization, Carrie L. Schweiger

Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024

The idea of the American main street is deeply embedded in popular culture, often seen through layers of nostalgia that can obscure the real-world conditions of today. While an idealized nostalgia may benefit some towns, decades of change have left many struggling to fit the mold. This thesis explores how core principles of themed experience design can be integrated into existing American main streets, reimagining the way residents interact and identify with these spaces.

Examining historical upheavals alongside decades of media portrayals brings insight into the different stories embedded in America’s small towns, many of which remain focused on the …

Lost Things, Aloysius Devine

Graduate Thesis and Dissertation post-2024

Lost Things is a novella that explores sexuality, family, and mental illness. When Pearl drops out of college following a crisis in mental health, she returns to Sunnyside, Florida, where she does not belong. Pearl’s queerness and inability to meet her mother’s harsh expectations render her an outsider in her own home. However, Pearl finds solace and companionship in Saint Anthony, a goldfish her little sister won at the school fair. Pearl and Saint Anthony devolve into mutual obsession: Pearl, with the beached blue whale that washes up a mile from her home, and Saint Anthony with the ocean. Pearl’s …

Confined To Being Defined, Hope A. Reyes

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

No abstract provided.

College Student Health Outcomes Through The Lens Of Social Class And Possible Interventions, Ann Mary Thomas

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Social class is a key determinant of college student health that is often overlooked. This project explores how students from low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds face unique barriers to physical and mental well-being, including financial strain, food and housing insecurity, limited access to healthcare, and chronic stress. These inequities contribute to disparities in sleep, nutrition, mental health, and academic performance.

While universities have implemented general health initiatives, many fail to address the specific needs of low-SES students. Through an analysis of existing programs and systemic gaps, this research highlights the urgent need for targeted, inclusive, and sustainable solutions.

Promoting health …

Breaking Barriers: Advancing Career Development In The Latino Community", Liliana O. Betancourt

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Despite being one of the fastest-growing demographic groups in the US, Latinos still face many obstacles to professional growth and advancement. Language barriers, systematic workplace discrimination, restricted access to high-quality education, and a dearth of mentorship and support networks that are sensitive to cultural differences are some of these challenges. This poster presentation explores the underlying challenges impacting Latino career trajectories, particularly through the lens of power and privilege. Historically, Latino workers have faced obstacles in obtaining fair employment opportunities, leadership roles, and financial security due to structural disparities, including discriminatory labor practices, restrictive immigration laws, and underfunded educational systems. …

Rooted In Resistance, Growing In Boriken: The Fight For Climate And Agricultural Justice In Puerto Rico, Jada Melendez

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This project examines how Puerto Rico’s agricultural system has been shaped by historical colonization, economic policy, and climate change. Once largely self-sustaining, the island now imports more than 85 percent of its food, creating major vulnerabilities during natural disasters and economic disruptions. My research analyzes four key systems of injustice political, economic, social, and environmental and how they intersect to impact food sovereignty. The project also highlights grassroots solutions such as agroecology education, land protection, and investment in sustainable infrastructure. Through this work, I developed a deeper understanding of how colonial legacies continue to affect food systems today and how …

The Adversities Of Latinx/Hispanic Youth In The Foster Care System, Juan Escobar

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Minorities in the foster care system experience an adverse childhood due to the systemic issues present within foster care. The adversities faced by Latinx and Hispanic youth in the foster care system is a continuous problem causing significant disparities within the foster care system. The problems Latinx/Hispanic youth face are unique to this population in the areas of culture and policy. Disparities show that the current system does not utilize equitable practices and there is progress to be made with child welfare policies. The problem contributes to the social strains on Latinx/Hispanic youth, particularly immigrant youth, who face challenges related …

Minority Representation In Athletic Leadership, Brooke D. Johnson

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

The purpose of the research project was to identify an issue in our world related to racial, social, or ethnic injustices as well as leadership. I chose to relate my project to the sports world because it is an area that I am also very passionate about. Through my research I learned that that have been many changes and advancements over the years to promote women and people of racial minorities into leadership positions, however there is still a lot of work to be done.

The Underrepresentation Of Latinx Leaders In U.S. Politics, Yailin Rodriguez Ojeda

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

No abstract provided.

Health Disparities Among Hispanic/Latino Community, Meriam F. Naguib

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This research project is about health disparities among the largest minority group in the United States, which is the Hispanic/Latino community. This ethnic community offers a rich and deep culture that impacts the United States through new experiences and so much more. However, many individuals suffer from health disparities due to lack of documentation status. Through lack of documentation status, many are not able to receive insurance coverage. This is an issue because the United states healthcare field is very costly and require individuals receiving that care to have insurance to help cover the cost. This research will dive deeper …

The Lack Of Mental Health Support In Caribbean Households, Arnoudly Bossicot

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Growing up in a Caribbean household, mental health, amongst other topics, was something no one dared to speak about. Seeking therapy or talking to a trusted family member is not an option since you will look weak. When mental health issues are left untreated, long-term adverse effects on the emotional, social, physical, and behavioral aspects of life. In some instances, it may result in suicide. This research will explore the different elements that affect a person’s willingness to receive mental health treatment in Caribbean households. Would teenagers and young adults seek mental help if given the right resources and support? …

Beyond Equality: Systemic Barriers And Equity Solutions For Latina Workers, Leismarie Alicea Estrada

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This study examines the systemic barriers facing Latina workers in the U.S., with a focus on wage gaps, occupational segregation, and policy failures. Drawing from national datasets (EPI, NWLC). The purpose of the research poster is to explore and depict a picture of how gender, ethnicity, and immigration status compound to exploit Latinas across industries—particularly in domestic work, agriculture, and healthcare.

Its Not A “Conflict” When Its Colonization; The Continued Oppression Of The Palestinians, Safia K. Alkhub, Safia K. Alkhub

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

This project aims to educate and shed light into the colonization and oppression of Palestinians that has been happening long before October 7th of 2023 as something more than a conflict. What Palestine is facing is injustice, ongoing settler colonialism and systemic oppression under a military occupation. Since the Nakba of 1948, the displacement, land theft, and violence that the Palestinians face continues while the world continue to be silent and complacent because of the aid of western forces like the United States to the Israeli military both by arms deals and monetary aid to the Israeli military. Many human …

Unmasking The Global Crisis Of Misinformation: Its Devastating Impact On Leadership And Public Health, Kazi S. Salsabil

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

With the advancement of information access, the global community faces the growing dilemma of misinformation. The sources we rely on such as news, social media, and other media platforms play a critical role in our daily decisions, particularly in health and politics. Moreover, research has shown that misinformation has contributed to significant events such as election crises and the global pandemic. The purpose of this project is to address the global crisis of misinformation on leadership and Public health. The aim is to understand the causes and effects of this dilemma while determining more effective solutions that can create a …

Bilingual Education And Academic Performance, Gaspar Dantas

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Bilingual education plays a crucial role in fostering cognitive benefits and promoting academic success, especially in multilingual societies. However, disparities in access to quality bilingual programs and inconsistent policies have led to inequities, particularly affecting Latinx and immigrant communities (Baker, 2011; Gándara & Contreras, 2009). Historical policies, limited funding, and misconceptions about bilingualism have hindered progress (Crawford, 2004). To address these challenges, recommendations include expanding dual-language immersion programs, and securing equitable funding through policy reforms (Baker, 2011; Gándara & Contreras, 2009). A sustained commitment to these efforts is essential to overcome systemic barriers and provide equal educational opportunities for all …

Uniting The Latino Community: Overcoming Disconnection For Collective Empowerment, Giselle Berbel

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

My project, Uniting the Latino Community: Overcoming Disconnection for Collective Empowerment, aims to address the internal divisions within the Latino community in the U.S. caused by differences in nationality, culture, and socioeconomic status. These divisions can limit political power, create economic disparities, and increase social inequalities. The research explores the factors contributing to these divisions and identifies strategies to promote unity and collective advancement. While existing research often focuses on external challenges like discrimination, there is less focus on the internal factors that prevent unity within the community. By fostering unity, my project aims to enhance the Latino community’s social …

Addressing Anxiety & Depression Among College Students: A Social Change Method, Flavia Cabrera

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

By creating a resource-rich and encouraging environment, this project seeks to address the common problem of anxiety and depression among college students. Creating and executing workshops centered on coping strategies, stress management, and mental health awareness are important tasks. In order to promote candid communication and lessen feelings of loneliness, we are also establishing peer support groups. In addition, we're creating a thorough online resource center with details on crisis hotlines, mental health services, and self-care techniques.

The significant influence of peer support has been one of the most important lessons learned. When students share their experiences with people who …

Racism Against Latinx Communities In The United States: A Personal And Structural Examination, Emilia Carpio

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

No abstract provided.

Spanish-Speaking Parents' Comprehension Of School-Based Speech Therapy Documentation, Daria Hernandez

LEAD Scholars Academy Showcase

Navigating speech-language therapy in schools can feel overwhelming for many families, and for Hispanic parents, language barriers and limited health literacy (HL) skills may intensify this challenge. There is a significant gap in research on health literacy strategies used by school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs). This issue becomes more critical when examining how Spanish-speaking parents navigate Spanish translations of essential documents like IEPs. This gap emphasizes the urgent need for research in this area, and my project seeks to help address it.