Digital Commons Network^™

Beyond Barracks: Addressing The Psychological Impacts Of Military Housing Through Design, Malia Hunt

Interior Design Capstones

Military personnel sacrifice their lives to safeguard the country yet often return to inadequate living conditions that fail to support their needs after facing the rigors of duty. Beyond Barracks explores the impact of military housing on the mental health and well-being of service members.Prevalent concerns such as insufficient privacy, limited space, and poor facility conditions can exacerbate the physical and emotional challenges already faced by those in service, diverting their energy from service duties to unnecessary complications.

This body of research and design examines the shortcomings and successes of current military housing to provide a comprehensive overview and identify …

The Internal Flame, Bailey Robydek

Interior Design Capstones

This body of research and design explores the vital relationship between interior environments and the well- being of firefighters. Challenging the traditional assumptions about how fire station design impacts their health and recovery. Firefighters endure significant physical exertion, psychological stress, and exposure to traumatic events, yet many fire station interiors remain focused primarily on operational functionality rather than personal wellness.

This research underscores the urgent need for fire station design to transcend traditional assumptions and evolve into a model that actively supports holistic recovery. Firefighters require spaces that address the cumulative impacts of their profession, both physical and mental taxation. …

Building Better Communities, Abby Simandl

Interior Design Capstones

This project explores how innovative design strategies can build better communities by enhancing mental health, physical well-being, and social engagement, ultimately creating a sense of belonging and growth in cities.

Motivated by the challenges of affordability, accessibility, social isolation, and environmental degradation, this project emphasizes the transformative power of design. By integrating community-centered design (CCD) and human-centered design (HCD) principles, the project aims to learn about resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities. These approaches involve active community participation, ensuring that solutions are culturally relevant, inclusive, and responsive to local needs.

Key strategies include promoting social connectedness, improving public access to health …

Reading Between The Lines: Examining The Literacy Preparation And Classroom Realities Of Teachers Of Color, Dr. Cathy D. Kea, Fanica Young, Joy Banks, Annette Teasdell

Reading Horizons: A Journal of Literacy and Language Arts

This study examines the importance of literacy preparation in educator preparation programs (EPPs). Specifically, the authors examine the need to merge literacy practices with culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies to increase reading outcomes for diverse students with disabilities. This article reports on a survey that was distributed to 18 dually prepared teachers of color to explore their collective literacy preparation experiences. The participants were graduates of a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). The findings indicate that regardless of the institution’s location, EPPs, including those at HBCUs, should be intentional about addressing topics related to diversity. For early career educators …

Alvar Aalto: Past. Present.Future, Matthew Collins

Interior Design Capstones

Alvar Aalto serves as a timeless guide for architectural and design principles. These principles are not of universal rigidness but are flexible based on the givenconditions of site, culture, and people. His traditionalmethods of sketching and drawing create a hand to mind connection to the design process. This process, much like his work, develops a mindful and thoughtful outcome of decisions. With computer technology become more increasingly apart of our lives, it is important that we not forget the human point of view rather than purely a rational mode of thinking. This capstone project address how it is possible to …

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 …

Exploring Ballast Water As A Vector For The Spread Of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, Kathleen Beadling

Masters Theses

Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) has led to high mortality rates of reef-building coral species throughout the greater Caribbean region since it was first documented off the coast of Miami in 2014. The pathogen is currently unknown, but it is suspected that ballast water discharge is a vector of disease transmission. As a step towards better understanding SCTLD transmission, this study aimed to identify locations of ballast water exchange that coincide with outbreaks of the disease. Spatial and temporal patterns of SCTLD outbreaks and ballast water exchanges conducted within 50 nautical miles of coastlines were explored using Density-Based Spatial …

Emeriti News Spring 2025, Emeriti Council

Emeriti News

No abstract provided.

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 …

Utilizing Drainage Induced Pfas Enrichment In Cascade Generated Foam For Efficient Removal At Wastewater Treatment Plants, Ethan Samuel Coffin

Dissertations

Observed trends in municipal solid waste landfills reveal a distinct disparity between per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) composition entering in waste, mostly as diPAP and FTOH, and leaching out as FTCA and PFCA. These patterns are elucidated by compiling PFAS compositions in paper, textiles, and carpet, with known precursor transformations that generate FTCA and PFCA in leachate. Landfill leachate is commonly discharged to wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), which are ineffective at degrading PFAS and only serve as key conduits and discharge points for PFAS to the environment. Foam fractionation has been identified as a promising technology for concentrating and …

Upper-Level Undergraduate Pre-Healthcare Students’ Journeys To Graduation And Health Professional Graduate Programs, Holly L. Sisson

Dissertations

Despite decades of research on undergraduate student retention and persistence, only a handful of researchers, such as Dumke et al. (2018) and Stull et al. (2021), have looked specifically at pre-health students preparing for graduate health professional programs and the complex challenges these students face while trying to achieve their goals. Very little research focused on upper-level undergraduate students pursuing graduate health professional programs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, or similar graduate health professional programs excluding medical school. To help fill this gap, my study focused on the experiences of pre-healthcare students as they navigated their undergraduate …

A Multiple Case Study Of Four-Year Public, Non-Flagship Universities: Meeting Common Institutional Goals Of Increased Enrollment And Academic Profile, Alicia Kornowa

Dissertations

For several reasons, the number of students seeking and enrolling in a postsecondary education has started to decline in the United States (U.S.) and the decrease is expected to intensify for the foreseeable future. This trend is cause for concern among higher education enrollment leaders, especially those who serve at institutions not among the most elite universities or without a national brand—the campuses researchers project will have the greatest difficulty maintaining enrollment levels. Using strategic enrollment management (SEM) as an example of general systems theory and systems thinking, this multiple case study explored how four public, four-year, non-flagship institutions increased …

Nature-Based Activities And Educational Programming To Promote Health And Wellbeing In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Madison E. Smith

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) and project applied occupational therapy’s (OT) role in positive and healthy aging to the design and implementation of a nature-based activity and education program. Nature-based OT interventions for older adults are supported throughout scientific literature and are of continued importance to address ongoing mental and physical health challenges for the older adult population. This program took place at the Ecumenical Senior Center (ESC), a day center serving primarily underserved older adults in the Kalamazoo, Michigan area. Four interactive group sessions were implemented to explore the physical and mental health benefits of participating in nature activities. …

Sensory Processing At Bethany Christian Services: Education And Implementation Of Sensory Needs For Adolescent Males Through A Trauma Responsive Lens, Tatum L. Johnson

Capstone Projects

This capstone project addressed a critical gap in sensory processing support and understanding among adolescent males with sexual behavior problems at Bethany Christian Services’ Ridgeview Residential Program. The project aimed to enhance awareness of Occupational Therapy (OT) among staff and residents, improve inter-organizational communication, support classroom sensory regulation, and promote mindfulness practices within the facility. These objectives were achieved through a range of learning activities, including “What is OT?” educational videos, OT communication binders for each resident, a training binder for incoming OT students pertaining to Bethany Christian Services, sensory kits for classroom use with corresponding educational videos, scheduled classroom …

The Impact Of Equine-Assisted Services Through An Occupational Therapy Lens, Caitlyn Espinosa

Capstone Projects

The topic of this capstone project is the role of occupational therapy in Equine-Assisted Services. This field is currently dominated by physical therapy because occupational therapists report a lack of knowledge and training involving this unique treatment strategy. Another common issue for equine-assisted programs is funding because insurance often denies coverage for these unique and expensive services. Therefore, objectives for this project include development of three educational visuals, submission of three grant proposals, completion of two continuing education opportunities, and service provision. Results of this project include educational visuals on (1) the basics of Equine-Assisted Services, (2) the impact of …

A Review Of Smartsocks® Technology For Dementia Care: Addressing Agitation And Implications For Occupational Therapy Practice, Lucile Webb

Capstone Projects

The population of persons with dementia (PWD) is rising in the United States, expected to reach 82 million by 2050 (Alzheimer’s Association, 2024). Agitation is one of the most common and challenging aspects of the disease characterized by irritability, severe restlessness, physical aggressiveness, and/or verbal aggression (Carrini et al., 2021). This behavior can cause significant stress for carers, pharmaceutical interventions have limited effectiveness and may have adverse side effects. Technological approaches for addressing agitation have included robotic pets, wearable technology, and environmental sensory modifications although with mixed results. The purpose of this paper is to provide an in-depth product review …

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, …

Occupational Therapy-Based Strategies To Support Tier 1 And 2 Of Mtss, Katherine Satterfield

Capstone Projects

This capstone project aimed to create and disseminate a range of occupational therapy (OT) resources and educational guides for teachers and faculty within the general education classroom, specifically addressing tier 1 and 2 supports of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). These OT-based strategies which are focused on posture, handwriting, scissor skills, sensory processing, dressing skills, and more, are designed to enhance student engagement and performance within the academic setting. Despite the positive outcome potential of OT utilization within schools, strategies are often underutilized due to inadequate training, limited understanding of OT's role, and restricted access to resources. This project …

Enhancing Support For Refugee Women: Supplemental Resources For Service Providers Through An Occupational Therapy Lens, Nabilah Salwa

Capstone Projects

This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) focused on developing comprehensive, occupational therapy (OT) -informed resources to support refugee women and young adults. The primary goal was to equip community leaders—particularly those working with Treetops Collective in Grand Rapids (GR), Michigan—with practical, culturally sensitive tools to better serve refugees and New American members. Refugee women face many barriers to occupational participation due to intersecting cultural, linguistic, and systemic challenges. While existing literature highlights general needs within refugee communities, there is a lack of tailored, practical resources to guide service providers in daily practice.

In response to this gap, resources were created with …

Enhancing Aging In Place: Client-Centered, Occupational Therapy Programs For Fall Prevention In Community-Dwelling Older Adults, Megan Oliver

Capstone Projects

This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on fall prevention and the promotion of safe aging in place for older adults through occupational therapy (OT)-based interventions. Conducted at WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging in Brooklyn, Michigan, the project identified a gap in fall prevention resources and OT interventions for community-dwelling older adults. The primary objectives were to develop and implement client-centered fall prevention programs to reduce fall risk, support aging in place, and create sustainable educational resources for staff. Project outcomes demonstrated significant improvements in participants’ safety and confidence within their home environments. No new falls were reported, and participants …

Bridging Vision And Function: The Intersection Of Occupational And Vision Therapy, Julia Lalain

Capstone Projects

This Doctoral Capstone Experience (DCE) focused on designing, implementing, and sustaining a neurovisual rehabilitation program at McLaren Northern Michigan’s outpatient clinic. The program addressed a critical gap in neurovisual rehabilitation services in Northern Michigan, particularly for patients with neurovisual processing difficulties from conditions such as neurological disorders and developmental visual processing deficits. This DCE’s objectives included designing a tailored neurovisual perceptual rehabilitation program, increasing awareness of visual perceptual deficits through an in-service to clinic staff, and producing educational marketing materials to encourage collaboration among occupational therapists (OTs) and interdisciplinary teams (IDTs). This DCE aimed to integrate visual perceptual skills into …

Exploring The Role Of An Occupational Therapist In Driver Rehabilitation, Lauren Garling

Capstone Projects

Driver Rehabilitation is a specialized occupational therapy service designed to promote independence and mobility in the community by teaching or adapting driving for individuals with medical conditions or injuries. This doctoral capstone experience (DCE) addressed the unmet needs of Automobility Driver Rehabilitation and the field of driver rehabilitation through advanced clinical practice and education. Automobility’s website lacked adequate information and resources on their website. An aspect of this DCE was to finalize their website by adding comprehensive details on services, educational resources, articles, and a FAQ section. Additionally, medical insurance providers do not cover driver rehabilitation as a medically necessary …

Enhancing Dementia Care: Learning Modules And Simulations For Assisted Living Facility Staff And Dominican Sisters, Emma Cole

Capstone Projects

Many nursing homes and assisted living facilities do not provide their staff with specialized training in dementia care, which can lead to decreased confidence and comfort when working in memory care units (Smythe et al, 2016). This capstone project aimed to enhance dementia care by developing recorded PowerPoint learning modules, handouts, and in-person simulation experiences focused on dementia education. To better understand the needs, preferences, and daily experiences of individuals with dementia, time was spent directly engaging with residents through meaningful activities and personal interactions. These experiences informed the development of the educational materials and ensured they were rooted in …

Promoting Self-Regulation In Children: A Weekly Group Intervention Integrating Sensory, Movement, And Art-Based Activities, Emily Zion

Capstone Projects

Self-regulation, or the ability to control one’s mind and body in response to changes in the environment, is a prevalent challenge for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), among other neurodevelopmental conditions. Research shows that evidenced-based interventions rooted in sensory integration, movement, social-emotional learning, and artistic expression all contribute to improved self-regulation. The aim of this project was to develop a group program to promote self-regulation for clients at the Sensory Connections outpatient pediatric clinic in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Two evidence-based, six-week programs for preschool and elementary aged children were developed. The …

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) …

Integrating Cultural Competence And Humility Into Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student Education, Jade Nguyen

Capstone Projects

Background: As minority populations in the United States continue to rise, occupational therapy (OT) personnel must be equipped with the necessary skills to provide culturally responsive care to clients from diverse backgrounds. However, OT programs nationwide are lagging behind in delivering adequate cultural training to their students.

Purpose: The project aimed to develop an instructional module for promoting cultural competence and humility among OT students.

Method: The DCE involved three months of in-depth research and collaboration with diverse cultural advisors, including African American, Asian American, Hispanic and/or Latino American, and Muslim representatives, to develop a teaching module. The instructional module …