Digital Commons Network^™

Truly We Speak Podcast - Creative Thesis Project: "Uplifting Faith, Community, And Education Through The Voice Of The People.", Sierra Ward

Honors Theses

This creative thesis has been curated by Sierra Ward, a Sales and Marketing student at Western Michigan University. The intent behind this project was to combine shared interests between Faith, Community, and education to create a podcast, interviewing prominent members of the community, in hopes of inspiring others to “speak truly” and use their voice to evoke everlasting change. A wide range of guest were chosen to have authentic conversations with the purpose of educating the audience about real life situations. The filming of this project started in Fall of 2024 and concluded in the Spring of 2025.

Growing up …

Becoming Effie White: A Journey Of Evolution, Aniya Thompson

Honors Theses

This thesis paper is a reflection of Aniya Thompson’s process playing the role of Effie White in the Western Michigan University School of Theatre and Dance production of Dreamgirls. The Dreamgirls’ book and lyrics are by Tom Eyen and music by Henry Krieger. This story is of a young Black female trio whose story brings light to the challenges of the music industry. As their fame grows, they face heartbreak, a shift in loyalty, and blatant exploitation while exploring themes of race, beauty standards and perseverance. Aniya reflects her artistic journey of stepping into Effie’s shoes emotionally, vocally, and …

The Laureate, Brooklyn Hoover

Honors Theses

The Laureate’s mission is to provide undergraduate students at Western Michigan University a medium through which to publish their fiction, poetry, nonfiction, photography, graphic novels, and other creative works. The Laureate strives to be a professional and engaging journal that appeals to all. The 23^rd edition of The Laureate is unique in that, despite having no strict guidelines on themes, mediums, or styles, we found that many students expressed themes of grief, recovery, self-discovery, and new beginnings. Together, these works create a complex story of introspection and reflection.

Co-editors, Grace Cieslikowski and Brooklyn Hoover facilitated the launch of the …

Library At The Concert Hall: An Interdisciplinary Library Outreach Strategy For Unexpected Spaces, Michael J. Duffy Iv, Jessica M. Abbazio

University Libraries Faculty & Staff Presentations

This poster highlights strategies for staging pop-up libraries aligned with campus events. The presenters share perspectives on connecting with campus affiliates and community members at performing arts venues at two separate institutions, and share longitudinal data that illustrates the value of this outreach strategy for engaging a range of potential library users. Attendees will explore ideas for highlighting connections between potential visitors’ interests and library collections, and discover strategies for collaborating with library colleagues across disciplines to meet these needs. Participants will learn methods for leveraging this flexible approach to fit their own capacity and collection parameters. Objective 1: Explore …

Research Day 2025 Program, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School Of Medicine

Research Day

No abstract provided.

Preservice Teachers’ Experiences With Critical Self-Reflection As A Means For Identifying Resistances To Becoming Culturally Competent: A Phenomenological Study, Susan Elaine Huff

Dissertations

Preservice teacher programs have been charged with finding ways to make programming more multiculturally inclusive due to the student population in K-12 public schools across the United States becoming increasing racially, culturally, or ethnically more diverse each year. The majority of current educational research surrounding multicultural education, explores the limited diversity in teacher education programs, understanding the cultural competency of the current teachers, and investigating discrepancies within current classroom application. There is little research that considers how preservice teachers use critical self-reflection as a tool for working with diverse student populations during clinical work in their program. Therefore, the purpose …

Food, Design & Desire, Emily Harnden

Interior Design Capstones

The research presented in Food, Design, and Desire examines the impactful role of interior design in shaping the connection between humans and food, with a focus on fine dining environments. Grounded by the thesis, the ideal dining experience creates a profound connection to oneself and the environment around you. This project investigates how built environments influence diners’ emotional and physical experiences, enhancing their intimacy with food. The research addresses the interplay between space, desire, and the human relationship with culinary experiences, aiming to develop design strategies that increase customer retention and deepen the human connection to food.

This project utilizes …

Identifying Universal And Language-Specific Features In Play-Based Writing Of Young Children, Shaya Helbig

Dissertations

Young children’s marks when writing consist of universal features such as scribbling and drawing, and language-specific features such as letters or letter-like forms and spaces (Clay, 1979; Puranik & Lonigan, 2011; Rowe & Wilson, 2015; Teale & Sulzby, 1985). It is widely agreed that exposure to words and written language play a pivotal role in children’s writing development (Clay, 1979; Teale & Sulzby, 1986). However, it remains unclear whether children form more complex writing skills through specific developmental stages, and if age plays any part in this progression (Clay, 1979; Justice & Vukelich, 2008; Teale & Sulzby, 1986). The lack …

Emeriti News Spring 2025, Emeriti Council

Emeriti News

No abstract provided.

Data-Driven Decision Making For Quality Control In Foundry Applications, Ronit Shetty

Dissertations

In the transformative landscape of Industry 4.0, advanced quality control in manufacturing demands innovative methods for processing and analyzing datasets. This dissertation presents a comprehensive study on leveraging high volume data and machine learning to enhance decision making in the foundry industry. The research explores three crucial challenges in the foundry industry: predicting surface roughness, monitoring refractory coating thicknesses, and comparing feature extraction techniques for surface quality classification. The findings underscore the transformative potential of integrating advanced feature engineering techniques and machine learning into manufacturing quality control.

The first of the three challenges introduces a framework that integrates digital images …

Nonparametric Finite Mixture Of Ising Graphical Models, Manal Hamadi Alloqmani

Dissertations

Statistical applications in fields such as bioinformatics, genomics, speech processing, image processing, and communications often involve large-scale models in which thousands or millions of random variables are linked in complex ways. Graphical models provide a general methodology for approaching these problems, and indeed many of the models developed by researchers in these applied fields are instances of the general graphical model formalism. This formalism gives a nice framework for capturing complex dependencies among the random variables and building a large-scale model for high-dimensional data. Recently, high-dimensional data are more assumed to come from one population and follow a parametric or …

Resilient Learning For Anomaly Detection In Smart Living Systems, Sahar Abedzadeh

Dissertations

Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) rely on anomaly-based detection methods to ensure the integrity and security of critical infrastructures such as smart grids, smart water metering systems, and advanced metering infrastructures (AMI). Anomaly detection methods are commonly used to identify deviations from normal system behavior by establishing learned profiles and thresholdbased distinctions between benign and anomalous events. However, conventional frameworks often fail to account for adversarial data poisoning attacks, unlabeled unsafe events, and environmental noise—factors that distort training data, degrade detection accuracy, and increase false alarms. This dissertation proposes a resilient learning framework that mitigates these biases by integrating quantile regression, M-estimation …

Techniques For Enabling Advanced Adas Features: Operation In Inclement Weather And Use Of Infrastructure Information, Parth Kadav

Dissertations

Modern vehicles have undergone a transformation with the widespread integration of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology becoming the new standard and are set to be mandated by the by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for all passenger vehicles and light trucks. ADAS features have proven to prevent or mitigate crashes by either alerting or assisting the driver. ADAS typically utilizes a forward-facing camera, which comes standard in modern vehicles to provide limited automation features such as Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and Lane Centering Assist (LCA) to improve driver safety. These systems rely on the assumption that vehicle …

Turbulence And Energetic Ion Production In The Partially Magnetized Hollow Cathode Plume, Margaret Mary Mooney

Dissertations

Hall effect thrusters (HETs) are the most widely used electric propulsion (EP) device for in-space satellite propulsion. EP devices provide high efficiencies for extended mission lifetimes and low thrust for precision maneuvers. The hollow cathode is a critical HET component and undergoes extensive lifetime testing in addition to the lifetime testing of the full HET. Significant density gradients, non-Maxwellian electron behavior, and magnetic fields sufficiently strong enough to magnetize electrons in hollow cathode plumes create favorable conditions for the formation of plasma instabilities, which have an impact on cathode lifetime. Cathode qualification testing is typically conducted independently and includes a …

Deadtime In The Vale Of Soul-Making: Hermeneutics, Humanization, And Higher Education In Prison, Dale Michael Brown

Dissertations

This body of work examines higher education with and for justice-involved people from a descriptive, theoretical, and empirical perspective—pulling together multiple disciplines and employing different methodologies from the humanities and social sciences. The investigation is written from a philosophical perspective via educational foundations and a social science perspective via qualitative research, including an examination of carceral higher education’s connections to teaching and experiential learning. This approach reflects the interdisciplinary nature of both the author’s degree program and the topic itself, which (as a field of academic inquiry) is part theoretical and part empirical (both qualitative and quantitative). The papers in …

The Ebony Edge: A Qualitative Exploration Of Math Success Among Black College Women, April Ruiz

Dissertations

Historically, women have been underrepresented as leaders in STEM. However, according to the National Science Foundation (2022), women accounted for a little more than half of the college-educated workforce and underrepresented minority women increased in broad science and engineering occupational categories. This promising upturn underscores the importance—if progress is to continue—of better understanding why some African American women succeed in and persist with their study of college mathematics.

This study aimed to explore the experiences of Black college women attending a predominantly White institution in the Midwest, to better understand what reasons Black college women ascribe to their success in …

Divided Motherhood: Narrative Within The Domestic Vessel, Jacqueline Denaway

Masters Theses

This research explores the story of motherhood through that of art, craft, and the domestic vessel. It analyzes how the installation, Motherhood Divided, can be viewed as an exemplification of the conflicted divide inherent within contemporary motherhood. I posit this divide to be a result of the tension created between the impossibility of the current normative maternal ideal of intensive motherhood, and its contradiction to that of the private hidden realities of mothering.

The historical origin of intensive mothering is explored, along with its impact on current societal maternal standards. These concepts are juxtaposed with the art of Camille Henrot …

Moderating Effect Of Fantasy Football Participation And Location On Team Identification And Nfl Fandom, Devon Hudson

Masters Theses

This study explores how fantasy football participation in varying geographic proximities to NFL teams has altered traditional fan allegiances (i.e. team loyalty or fandom) as an alternate consumer product for the game of football. After utilizing survey data to quantify concepts of fandom and team identification amongst respondents, respondent groups were sorted into various groups based on both fantasy participation and location relevant to NFL teams. A series of hypotheses describing relationships between proximity, fantasy football participation, and fan perceptions are analyzed using a series of statistical tests. No statistical significance was found when comparing strength of team identification amongst …

Bridging Climatology And Energy: Understanding Michigan’S Wind Speeds For A Sustainable Future, Carson Evans

Masters Theses

This study investigates Michigan wind speeds by combining climatology with wind energy, identifying wind drivers and applying them to wind farm infrastructure. Using eXtreme Gradient BOOSTing (XGBoost), this thesis develops a highly accurate predictive model for wind speeds. Coupled with Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis, it is found that proximity to the nearest Great Lake is the ultimate influencer of wind speeds, followed by local environmental variables and finally remote climate phenomena. Other analyses find wind speeds are greatest near the Great Lakes and during fall and winter, while inland summer wind speeds were lowest. Wind energy infrastructure is assessed …

Analyzing The Resilience Of Infrastructure-Based Vs. Camera-Based Lane Detection In Autonomous Vehicles, Pritesh Yashaswi Patil

Masters Theses

Traditional autonomous vehicle perception subsystems that use on-board sensors have the drawbacks of high computational load and data duplication. Infrastructure-based sensors, which can provide high-quality information without the computational burden and data duplication, are an alternative to traditional autonomous vehicle perception subsystems. However, these technologies are still in the early stages of development and have not been extensively evaluated for lane detection system performance. Therefore, there is a lack of quantitative data on their performance relative to traditional perception methods, especially during hazardous scenarios, such as lane line occlusion, sensor failure, and environmental obstructions. This need is addressed by evaluating …

Occupational Empowerment Through The Provision Of Functional Literacy Services, Richard H. Townsend Iii

Capstone Projects

Literacy is a fundamental and foundational skill that develops confidence, self-efficacy, and self-empowerment, while also shaping opportunities and promoting participation in meaningful activities across the lifespan. Possessing low literacy skills directly impacts one’s ability to navigate day-to-day transit, access healthcare systems, obtain employment, and participate fully in community life. Within the realm of occupational therapy (OT), literacy isn’t often addressed outside of educational settings or school systems, which presents a gap in the delivery of OT services. To address this need, I developed and implemented an empowerment-based literacy course for individuals with low literacy, while incorporating OT-focused strategies such as …

An Exploration Of Sensory And Fine Motor-Based Interventions To Address Self-Regulation And School Participation In Students Impacted By The Flint Water Crisis, Katie Sicklesteel

Capstone Projects

To be successful academically, students must first be regulated and ready to learn. For this capstone project, the occupational therapy (OT) process was used to develop and implement sensory and fine motor interventions in a first-grade classroom to support their participation. Given that the target population in Flint has been impacted by the water crisis and poverty, a trauma-informed approach was also integrated throughout. While research shows that OT plays an important role in sensory processing, self-regulation and motor skills in schools, there is a lack of accessible and evidence-based tools for educators to support these areas. To address this …

Implementing Fine Motor Skills Into Aba Services To Promote Engagement In Activities Of Daily Living, Hannah Sherman

Capstone Projects

There is an abundance of research regarding the benefits of occupational therapy (OT) and applied behavior analysis (ABA) services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to improve overall independence and function. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding the collaboration of the two professions, which may be attributed to insufficient understanding of each profession’s scope of practice. The primary goals of this doctoral capstone experience were to implement fine motor skills into ABA services and to promote collaboration between ABA and OT providers. These objectives were achieved through the development of an electronic folder of fine motor …

Assistive Technology To Increase Occupational Participation For Individuals With Sci, Emma M. Sauger

Capstone Projects

Individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) typically experience a disruption to their involvement in meaningful daily activities, or occupational participation, which can harm their quality of life. Occupational therapists are equipped to confront this obstacle, often through the use of assistive technology (AT). Various AT devices can be utilized to aid in performing daily occupations and have been shown as an effective way to compensate for functional limitations. With the improved ability to participate in activities, AT can help to restore quality of life among the SCI population. Even with this knowledge, significant barriers to accessing AT still exist, particularly …

Implementing Occupational Therapy Services To Enhance Reentry For Justice Involved Individuals In The Kalamazoo Region, Lexis Rich

Capstone Projects

Within the criminal justice system, there are difficulties and concerns regarding the high rates of recidivism involving the transition from incarceration to community. Formerly incarcerated individuals enter the reentry process with possible mental health conditions, increased social isolation, low self efficacy and difficulties navigating a new way of life. Occupational therapy can help address the difficulties and mental health concerns with incorporating meaningful occupations, however, services are not offered in many regions due to limited awareness of its value. The purpose of this project was to implement occupational therapy services for Region 8 of the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) …

Creating Sensory-Friendly Early Childhood Classrooms: Educator Training And Implementation Of Inclusive Tools, Carly Pylat

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone project focused on improving sensory-informed care at Grand Rapids Community College Early Childhood Learning Laboratory (GRCC ECLL), which serves children from six weeks to six years of age. Occupational therapy’s (OT) role in supporting self-regulation and participation through sensory integration was central to the project. A gap was identified in staff understanding of sensory processing, the absence of formal training, and inconsistent access to materials supporting regulation. To address this, five objectives were accomplished: surveying staff, developing and trialing a shared sensory toolkit, delivering professional development on sensory systems, leading an interactive trauma and sensory module for …

Creating Connections Through Art In Occupational Therapy And Its Impact On Identity And Belonging, Lianna Paris

Capstone Projects

Art has been a therapeutic tool in occupational therapy (OT) since the profession originated. Despite paradigm shifts in the field of OT, art-based interventions remain a valuable approach for promoting self-expression, emotional regulation, and skill development. However, many individuals living with disabilities still face limited access to creative therapeutic opportunities that support social connection and meaningful occupations. Addressing this gap is important, as incorporating art into OT can empower individuals to build effective coping skills and enhance their sense of identity and belonging. This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) aims to develop creative therapeutic environments at Western Michigan University’s (WMU) Unified …

Autism Spectrum Disorder And Neurodiversity: Sensory, Behavior, Trauma-Informed And Interdisciplinary Considerations, Sawyer Hodgkins

Capstone Projects

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a diagnosis that commonly receives occupational therapy (OT) services for sensory and behavioral intervention to promote participation and performance in daily activities. Additionally, individuals with ASD typically receive applied behavior therapy (ABA) to work on similar goal areas while benefiting from a trauma-informed approach. Many resources offer education and advocacy for the ASD population, but they lack a comprehensive and engaging format suitable for a wide range of audiences. This capstone project focused on developing an hour-long video providing an overview of ASD and neurodiversity, education regarding interdisciplinary, sensory, behavioral, and trauma-informed approaches, and concluded …

An Exploration Of Self-Identity And General Functioning Among U.S. Female Athletes Post-Paralympic Games, Riley M. Groves

Capstone Projects

Paralympians are a unique group of elite athletes with varying levels of disabilities who compete at the high level of sport. While much of the existing research focuses on their training and athletic accomplishments, little is known about their lives post-Paralympic Games and the role of Occupational therapy (OT) in athletic performance and everyday life. This doctoral capstone experience was conducted as a qualitative research study, with objectives developed to guide the research process. The study utilized an interpretative phenomenological analysis framework, grounded by Social Identity Theory, to explore the self-identity, sense of purpose, and functional abilities of Paralympians post-competition, …

Safe Sensations In Flight: Integrating A Sensory-Based Protocol For The Flight Experience To Support The Knowledge Of Neurodiverse Conditions, Jillian French

Capstone Projects

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges with social interactions, communication, and repetitive behaviors (Autism Speaks, 2024). The level of support required to carry out activities of daily living can vary for neurodiverse individuals. According to the Center for Disease Control (2025), one in 31 children are diagnosed with Autism indicating an increase in prevalence. Occupational therapists (OTs) are uniquely equipped to support individuals with Autism by helping them engage in meaningful occupations involving community mobility, such as air travel. In accordance with the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework – 4 (OTPF-4), OTs can provide support to individuals with neurodiverse …