Esg Systems And Financial Reporting, Madison Layton

Honors Theses

This thesis presents an informational overview of ESG systems and associated financial reporting requirements. This writing focuses on two main types of ESG systems, carbon taxes and emission trading systems, also known as cap-and-trade programs. Both carbon taxes and emissions trading systems are market-based approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon taxes offer price certainty as governments set a tax rate to incorporate the negative environmental effect of producing a good or service into the cost of that good or service. Emissions trading systems provide reduction certainty as a government or other entity will set a cap on total emissions …

Adopting Effective Strategies Of Agile Project Management In Hotel Rebranding Projects, Minjie Liu

Harrisburg University Dissertations and Theses

This thesis examines the application of Agile Project Management (APM) in hotel rebranding projects, emphasizing its impact on project flexibility, cross-departmental collaboration, and customer satisfaction. Using qualitative methods, the study highlights how APM practices, such as iterative cycles and continuous feedback loops, enhance adaptability, foster teamwork, and align outcomes with market demands. Findings reveal that while APM improves responsiveness and customer engagement, challenges like increased communication costs require careful management. The study offers practical insights for integrating APM into rebranding strategies to boost competitiveness and customer loyalty in the hospitality industry.

Wearable Technology In Intercollegiate Sport: Ethical And Legal Considerations Of Collecting Student-Athlete Biometric Data, Taryn Deshane

Honors Theses

As wearable technology becomes increasingly integrated into athletic performance tracking, questions surrounding privacy, consent, and data ownership emerge. This research investigates how universities and athletic organizations navigate the complex issues surrounding athlete biometric data (ABD) collection and usage, with a particular emphasis on intercollegiate athletics. While the use of biometric data is widespread across both professional and amateur sports, this study hones in on the college sports environment, examining how ABD is collected, the ethical concerns it raises, and how it impacts student-athletes and institutions.

This pilot study centers on student-athletes at Western Michigan University, specifically focusing on Division 1 …

Relationship Between The Transition To Remote Work And Job Satisfaction, Eric Wong

JWU Dissertations & Theses

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive research study was to explore how employees who had not worked remotely before, and who began remote jobs, describe the benefits and challenges they experienced during their transition to remote work. Using Maslow’s (1943) hierarchy of needs as the theoretical framework, 10 participants were interviewed regarding the benefits and challenges associated with remote work. Results revealed that the benefits of transitioning to remote work largely increased job satisfaction and job performance. These benefits included limited or no commuting to work, enhanced flexibility in work schedules, reduced or less anxiety during work, and increased family …

Mathematics In Amusement Parks, Kacey Laumann

Honors Projects

This project focuses specifically on the Walt Disney World Park, Magic Kingdom. I started by collecting data through the MyDisneyExperience app. By recording the data, I was then able to create polynomial functions to the fifth the degree. Each attraction received a function which allowed me to predict the wait times for that attraction. Then, by graphing the functions and analyzing the graph using calculus the “best time” and “worst time” to go to the attraction were found. After the analysis the information is used to build a unique schedule for a guest. Then the guest receives this schedule after …

Mentorship, Self-Efficacy, And Professional Identity: Exploring The Impact On The Career Advancement Of Racial And Ethnic Minorities In The Financial Services Industry, Brandon Lee Logan

JWU Dissertations & Theses

The representation of racial and ethnic minorities in leadership roles within the American financial services industry remains disproportionately low, despite growing diversity initiatives (McKinsey & Company, 2020; U.S. Government Accountability Office, 2022). This poses a problem as it impacts the industry's potential innovation, decision-making, and competitiveness (Dixon-Fyle et al., 2021). The underrepresentation of minorities in such roles highlights systemic issues within corporate culture, particularly in terms of access to mentorship and professional development opportunities, which are critical for career progression (A. Baldwin et al., 2022).

The study is based on Role Identity Theory, theorizing that individuals' roles within their social …

Promotional Product Brand Message Effectiveness: A Study Of Brand Awareness Using The Nudge Theory, Seth Barnett

JWU Dissertations & Theses

This dissertation explored the efficacy of promotional products as marketing nudges for new market entrants. It employs Nudge Theory, a measure used to induce behavioral changes (Thaler & Sunstein, 2021), to analyze their influence on human behavior and decision-making. Through voluntary surveys, participants' brand awareness was assessed, examining changes in branding awareness and general brand perception by using promotional products as a catalyst.

Promotional products are tangible items imprinted with a company's logo or message and distributed to consumers to enhance brand awareness and foster emotional connections (Pennington, 2002). Often given at no cost, these items are constantly reminded of …

Enhancing M&A Valuation Accuracy: A Comparative Analysis Of Traditional Financial Models And Machine Learning Approaches, Rachael Mmanga

Honors Theses

A comparative analysis is presented between of traditional financial modelling and machine learning (ML) valuation techniques in the context of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Traditional financial models, such as Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) and comparable company analysis, have long been the standard tools for valuing companies. These methods rely on established financial metrics, are relatively straightforward, and provide reasonably accurate estimates. However, they often fall short on capturing the complexity of market conditions, non-linear relationships, and emerging trends, especially in dynamic sectors or volatile markets. Machine learning, on the other hand, leverages advanced algorithms to process vast datasets, uncover hidden …

Unlocking The Nexus: Ownership Structures, Nursing Staff, And Quality Of Care In Nursing Homes - A Quantitative Study, Paget Rawlins

Theses & Dissertations

Through its comprehensive examination, this quantitative study provides a thorough assessment of the association between nursing home overall quality rating, nursing home ownership structures, RN staffing, and the impact that RN staffing has on long-stay quality measures. This study examined the secondary Minimum Data Set assessments from Texas nursing homes (N=1,062). This data set was obtained from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Provider (CMS) Information website. The first linear analyses indicated there is no statistically significant association between nursing homes with better organizational structures and overall quality ratings. The second linear analysis indicated that there is a statistically …

Examining The Impact Of Workplace Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion Programs On Marginalized Groups: A Focus On Lgbtqia Employees, Lisa Garcia Rodriguez

Theses & Dissertations

Research Focus. The research aims to understand the experience of LGBTQIA individuals in the workplace and identify strategies for promoting their inclusion. The study will draw on prior research and best practices for promoting the inclusion of individuals in the workplace to contribute to the development of more inclusive work environments that benefit both employees and organizations. Examining the impact of workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) on marginalized groups, the question to be answered is: What are the impacts of diversity, equity, and inclusion DEI initiatives in the workplace, and how can organizations create more equitable and inclusive environments? …

Investigating The Relationship Between Employee Financial Literacy Education And Small Business Performance In The Southwest Region Of Texas, Blake Beltran

Theses & Dissertations

ABSTRACT

Investigating the Relationship Between Employee Financial Literacy

Education and Small Business Performance in the Southwest Region of Texas

December 2024

Blake Beltran, Doctor of Business Administration

University of the Incarnate Word

Chair of Advisory Committee: Dr. Ernesto Escobedo

This study addressed the relationship between employee financial literacy education and the performance of small businesses in the Southwest Region of Texas, focusing on critical performance indicators, such as revenue growth, cost efficiency, and net profit margins. The researcher aimed to assess how financial literacy education among employees can impact the financial decision-making processes and, consequently, the performance metrics of small …

Physiological Positioning And Its Effects On Seated Vs. Standing Workers, Carlos Gautreaux

Theses & Dissertations

In the digital era, distractions in the working environment significantly impede professionals’ ability to maintain attention during the workday. Recent studies underscore the benefits of adjustable desks that allow for transitions between sitting and standing, highlighting improvements in workers’ physical and psychological health. Specifically, it has been noted that standing enhances cognitive function, focus, and mental acuity while alleviating stress. Despite these insights, research has yet to systematically explore the impact of standing while working on attentional performance. Moreover, the effect of standing while working may vary between on-site and remote working environments due to differences in ambient distractions. This …

Impact Of Safety Training On Employee's Perceptions Of Organizational Safety Culture, Brooke Reid-Graves

Dissertations

Workplace safety and well-being are vital for all workers, regardless of their profession (Young et al., 2022). Studies show that providing employees with training focused on recognizing hazards and implementing safety practices is essential for reducing occupational risks (Namian et al., 2020; Rose & Rae, 2017). Research underscores the importance of fostering a positive organizational safety culture for risk reduction (Berry et al., 2020; Downey, 2019). Understanding the impact of safety training on shaping an organization’s safety culture is key to promoting safe working environments (Mahjoub, 2013).

This study utilized the perspectives of high school staff regarding safety training and …

How The Russia & Ukraine War Is Contributing To Raw Materials Shortages In The Aerospace Industry, Ava Magness

Supply Chain Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

The aerospace industry, a key driver of the global economy, generates annual revenues exceeding $750 billion and is projected to reach $1.38 trillion by 2030. A substantial portion of this revenue—approximately $300 billion—stems from raw materials, which are integral to the manufacturing of aerospace components. These materials, including titanium, aluminum alloys, palladium, and neon, are essential due to their unique properties, such as lightweight strength, heat resistance, and suitability for extreme conditions.

However, the industry's dependence on limited geopolitical suppliers has exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains. The Russo-Ukrainian War has significantly disrupted the availability of critical materials like titanium, …

Supply Chain Management Internship – J.B. Hunt Transportation Services, Inc., Kroopa Gandhi

Supply Chain Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Transportation is all over the world as it is a part of our daily lives. It connects the supply chain from sourcing raw goods from suppliers to delivering finished products to stores. Whether by road, rail, air, or sea, transportation bridges the geographical gaps that separate markets and economies, ensuring the timely delivery of essential goods, and fostering economic growth and development. Since beginning of my fall semester of 2023, I had the opportunity to intern at J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. as an Intermodal Appointment Intern. My experience has deepened my appreciation for the complexities of the industry and …

The Influence Of Pro-White Bias On The Leadership Self-Efficacy Of Minority College Students, Stacy Roland

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Analyses of changing demographics in the United States project that the collective racial minority will comprise over 50% of the United States population by 2045. Yet, racial minorities hold only 20% of the most powerful and prestigious positions in the United States, demonstrating that racial minorities are underrepresented in leadership positions. The literature indicates that due to the existence of pro-White bias, racial minorities do not fit the prototypical image of a leader. This quantitative study investigates the influence of pro-white bias on the leadership self-efficacy of minority college students. A random sample of students from a liberal arts college …

Striking A Balance: Market Shock & Responses In Automotive Components Manufacturing, Emma Lane Mcgahey

All Theses

This thesis examines the effects of extreme market shocks on supply chain dynamics within the automotive industry. Through an analysis of demand data from an automotive manufacturer to its component suppliers (January 2018 to May 2024), the study investigates the relationship between market shocks and supply chain responses, providing insights into how auto components inventory management handles downstream responses to market shocks. With supporting public data—from FRED, BLS, and the U.S. Census Bureau resources—we explore two primary relationships: the impact of market shocks on the Average Standard Deviation of Demand (SDO) and the effect of demand variability on expedited pricing …

Research On The Impact Of Firms' Perception Of Economic Policy Uncertainty On Their Digital Transformation, Fanwei Meng

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

In an era characterized by globalization and digital advancement, economic policies play a critical role in the governmental regulation of economic activities. These policies are characterized by uncertainty due to a variety of internal and external factors, including international politics, economic cycles, and market fluctuations. The way firms, as microeconomic entities, perceive economic policy uncertainty (EPU) has a direct impact on their investment decisions and innovation activities. Nowadays, digital transformation has emerged as a vital strategy for firms seeking to enhance their competitiveness and adapt to evolving markets. However, digital transformation often comes with challenges, such as high input costs …

Empowering Community Leaders To Drive Sustainable Tourism And Small Business Development In Dangriga, Belize, Philip Nunez

Economics Undergraduate Honors Theses

This paper discusses the complexities of tourism development in Dangriga, Belize and how simple efforts can greatly impact small businesses in Central America.

Balancing The Scales In The Fashion Industry, Theresa J. Fennell

Theses

The standards of beauty, particularly in the fashion industry, have long been a source of societal debate and controversy. Although beauty can be seen as “subjective,” over the years, certain standards have become institutionalized, creating exclusionary ideals that have dominated the fashion industry. Historically, these standards have favored slim body types, marginalizing larger, plus-size bodies. This bias is deeply entrenched in the industry, influencing everything from design to representation in advertising. However, the body positivity movement has emerged as a transformative force, advocating for the acceptance of diverse body types and pushing for greater inclusivity in fashion. Despite these advances, …

The Integration Of Environmental Concerns And Philosophy Into Business Strategies, Johann Thorne

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

My thesis focuses on how a business can better integrate environmental philosophies and principles into their business model without detracting from the business's primary objectives, specifically that of generating profit. However, this thesis also seeks to extend the business's objectives to include the environment using these environmental philosophies, arguing that the business should have some obligation to the environment in terms of morality, as well as social obligations. This is an evolution of some common ethical theories used within the business world, but I argue they do not suffice to protect the environment. Instead, I develop an ethical pluralist framework …

Competency Model For General Managers Of Chain Independent Clinical Laboratory (Icl) Subsidiaries, Haiyan Wen

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

An independent clinical laboratory (ICL) is a medical institution that has received approval from health authorities, holds independent legal status, and specializes in medical testing or pathological diagnostics, assuming responsibility independently. It is also referred to as a third-party medical testing laboratory. During in-depth research on the enterprises, it was found that while the chain ICL industry is rapidly growing, the issues of uncertainty and difficulty in selecting subsidiary general managers have become a common concern and pain point among senior managers.

The study combines theoretical and data analysis to identify distinct and important competency characteristics of general managers of …

21st Century Community Learning Centers: Program Evaluation Evidence From Texas, Rosilyn Jackson

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Texas afterschool programs strive to enhance academic performance and meet students' needs, yet gaps in program quality persist. This study evaluated 21st Century Community Learning Centers’ performance in reading, math, GPA, attendance, in-school suspension, and engagement, both within these categories and against program goals and demographics. Theoretical frameworks used in this study include the logic model, social justice theory, and cultural relevance theory. This quantitative study utilized a nonexperimental and secondary data research design which utilized five statistical tests: the Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, One-Way repeated ANOVA, Spearman Correlation, the Independent Samples t-Test, and the Mann-Whitney U Test. Results showed that …

Feeling Triggered Yet? Nostalgic Triggers In Marketing, Lara Gerbino

ALL - Honors Theses

What leads people to reach out to someone that they do not talk to often? Getting back in touch with people helps make us happier, but research suggests that people reach out less than optimal (Rohrer et al., 2018). Socializing has been proven to help improve one’s overall mental health, happiness, and mood (Aknin, 2024). In two studies, we look at what features in a person’s consumption-based environment may trigger them to reach out to their loved ones. This ties back to marketing, specifically for social media companies, through people using their platforms to reach out to family/friends, which will …

Investigating The Perceived Invisibility Of The Black Woman Leader In Fortune 500 Companies: Understanding Career Pathways Based On Insight And Intersectionality, Shana Jones Yarberry

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

There is a gap in the literature when examining the intersectionality of race, gender, and class. There is additional distance when evaluating the impact each intersection has on the career development of Black Women (BW) in Fortune 500 companies. The purpose of this study was to use a qualitative approach to investigate how the intersectionality of race, gender, and class impact the career advancement of BW while also identifying perceived barriers, historical patterns of career movement, and organizational efforts to support the ascension of BW in senior leadership. The Systems Theory Framework of Career Development and Intersectionality Theory were examined …

Comparative Analysis Of Outward Foreign Direct Investment: A Case Study Of China And The United States In The United Kingdom, Jing Yang

Applied Economics Theses

This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) from China and the United States into the United Kingdom, with the intention of uncovering the distinct motivations behind their investment behaviors under different political-economic systems. Given the unique political and cultural backgrounds of China and the US, their approaches to OFDI exhibit varied characteristics in the international market. The United Kingdom, a main investment destination for both China and the US, is selected to reflect the distinctive features of Chinese and US’s OFDI.

The research focuses on how the determinants such as market growth, natural …

The Forgotten S.O.P., Kamille Stevens

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

The Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (iiED) is dedicated to cultivating entrepreneurship and economic growth within the Monterey Bay. Its goal is to create a pipeline of entrepreneurs from the Monterey Bay region who remain local and are able to increase the number of businesses and high-paying jobs in the area. To reach this goal, iiED provides multiple opportunities to its participants and tailors those opportunities based on their feedback.

Recently, iiED’s management has begun to experience turnover as individuals retire or reduce their work hours. As a result, iiED has begun to depend on the specialized knowledge of …

Cultural Influences On Leadership Practices: An Examination Of Culturally Diverse Leadership Influences During Organizational Change, Christopher Fairbank

Theses & Dissertations

This study explores the multifaceted culturally diverse influences on leadership practices, specifically in the intricate landscape of organizational change management. The primary objective is to unravel the complexities of leadership dynamics by dissecting the nuances of ethnic leadership styles. The goal of my study is to comprehensively examine how leaders from diverse ethnic backgrounds navigated and exerted influence during organizational change processes. I implemented a robust empirical framework to achieve this objective, strategically incorporating diverse study methods such as surveys, interviews, and organizational case studies. These methodological choices ensured a holistic examination of the interplay between cultural influences and leadership …

Optimizing Small Business Success Through An Online Fashion Consulting Infographic Guide, Nicole Campbell

Theses

The project aims to challenge traditional thinking within the fashion industry, paving the way for the creation of a thriving consulting business. In addition, it will underscore the significance of developing a strong online profile for fashion consultants, symbolizing the birth of the Consult the Soul brand. Through this initiative, the project aspires to revolutionize the realm of fashion consulting by fusing unique tactics with ethical standards. By encouraging a fresh perspective and emphasizing the importance of embracing digital platforms, the project sets out to redefine the standards of success within the industry. Ultimately, this venture seeks to establish a …

Financial Risk In A Changing Climate, Mashuk S. Rahman

LSU New Orleans Theses and Dissertations

Essay 1:

Given the missing-not-at-random (MNAR) nature of carbon emissions figures under the voluntary disclosure regulator environment, this research imputes synthetic emissions figures for both disclosing and non-disclosing publicly traded US firms, using an IV approach adapted for sample bias correction. The forward-observing implied cost of equity capital measure is consistently higher for carbon-intensive firms regardless of disclosure decision. This higher cost found in the large swath of high-emitting firms reduces the net present value of green transition investments, thus fueling existing research on the counterproductive natures of capital allocation in efforts to reduce corporate pollution. Contrary to emerging research, …