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About The Authors [Jnchc 2024, 25(2)]

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

About the authors of volume 25, issue 2 of the Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council (Fall/Winter 2024); special issue: Forum on student mental health.

Front And Backmatter [Jnchc 2024 25(2)]

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

Front and back matter for volume 25, issue 2 of the Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council (Fall/Winter 2024); special issue: Forum on student mental health.

Note From The Incoming Editor, Amy Mecklenburg-Faenger

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

Note from the incoming editor in journal 25, issue 25 of the Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council (Fall/Winter 2024); special issue: Forum on student mental health.

Journal Of The National Collegiate Honors Council (Fall/Winter 2024) 25(2): Whole Issue

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

Contents

Editorial Policy, Deadlines, and Submission Guidelines

Dedication to Keith Garbutt, Linda Frost

Guest Editor’s Introduction, Linda Frost

Note From the Incoming Editor, Amy Mecklenburg-Faenger

FORUM ESSAYS ON “STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH”

Face-to-Face: A Sociologist Looks at College Students’ Mental Health, Maureen Kelleher

Out of the Cave: Technology and the Importance of Community to Learning and Mental Health, Richard England

Fostering Relationships with Faculty, Peers, and Parents to Support Undergraduate Honors Students’ Mental Health, Allison A. Buskirk-Cohen and Alicia N. Shenko

Honors Is More Than a Grade: Removing the Experiential Ceiling in Honors, Justin L. Rheubert, Marisa Prisco, Paige A. …

Out Of The Cave: Technology And The Importance Of Community To Learning And Mental Health, Richard England

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

This essay draws upon Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” to examine student use of personal electronic devices and emphasize the value and power of conversation in learning communities. Observing the isolation that often characterizes the five minutes prior to class time, the author considers the psychosocial challenges to building classroom community in a technological age. Literature review provides ample testimony on how emergent technologies contribute to social fragmentation, emotional instability, and pedagogical hurdles. Noting current smartphone bans in K–12 education, the author acknowledges similar challenges to tertiary education, suggesting that individualized “caves” of ubiquitous personal (and highly personalized) technology are …

Fostering Relationships With Faculty, Peers, And Parents To Support Undergraduate Honors Students’ Mental Health, Allison Buskirk-Cohen, Alicia N. Shenko

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

Honors students are typically high-achieving, academically motivated individuals. Confronting the stressors of emerging adulthood makes them particularly vulnerable to heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and stress surrounding their performance and support networks. This essay blends developmental theories and research with personal reflection to underscore the importance of nurturing relationships among students and faculty, peers, and parents for promoting student well-being. Authors advocate honors programs and practitioners facilitate positive social interaction, appropriate parental involvement, and personal development. Strategies, such as smaller class size, non-traditional assessment, extracurricular engagement, and familial support, can help create caring communities within honors. Authors suggest that prioritizing …

Honors Is More Than A Grade: Removing The Experiential Ceiling In Honors, Justin L. Rheubert, Marisa Prisco, Paige A. Grum, Abby L. Kalkstein

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

The stress created by academic pressure may prevent honors students from exploring curricula beyond that required by their majors. Challenged with additional workload and extracurricular requirements, students in honors often confront added stress caused by a desire to perform favorably in all academic pursuits. This pressure may result in hesitancy to explore new ideas, nurture curiosity, or break free from the rigors of a defined program of study—the opposite of what honors pedagogy and practice purport. This essay presents the process of converting a weighted grading system to pass/fail in an effort to provide students with opportunities for academic exploration …

You Are Not Alone: An Innovative, Collaborative Approach To Student Wellness And Mental Health In Honors, Sheryl Ford, Joshua Stockley

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

This essay presents an innovative, proactive solution to the growing mental health needs of honors students. Authors discuss the ways in which one program at a large public university revised curriculum, created programming, and formed strategic partnership with the university’s Marriage and Family Therapy Program to understand and address student mental health in honors. Acknowledging a growing national trend of depression, anxiety, and suicide among college students, authors posit that dynamic outreach and dialogue with students about their struggles with assignments, activities, and academic expectations can create effective strategies for nurturing student development and well-being.

Charting A Course For Belonging: Creating An Honors Mindfulness Learning Community, Kristy Spear, Gayathry Prabhakaran

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

In today’s post-pandemic world, a sense of belonging within and in the larger relational world is something that many people struggle with, particularly those individuals leaving home to enter college. Socially engaged mindfulness can connect individuals with their breath, thoughts, emotions, and one another to promote and support well-being. This essay presents a programmatic overview of a Mindfulness Learning Community (MLC) in honors. Created for incoming first-year students (N = 31) to aid in their transition to college life, the multi-semester academic, social, and experiential-based learning community aims to teach honors students the psychological and physiological value of mindful practice, …

Mental Health Among Honors College Students: Evidence From College Entry Essays, Mohini Gobin, Jaclyn Kopel, Eric Osborne-Christenson, Anna Shostya

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

This study explores the effect of preexisting mental health issues on college students’ academic performance. Using unique data from the honors college at a medium-sized urban private university, authors examine college entry essays (N = 1,062) in five classes (two pre-pandemic and three post-pandemic), as well as advisors’ (N = 7) notes. Mental health (MH) concerns are grouped into six non-mutually exclusive categories: depression/anxiety, neurodiversity/learning disabilities, identity-related concerns, grief/loss, trauma, and the mental health of others whose lives impact the student. The study finds that the number of honors students citing mental health in their entrance essays more …

The Well-Being Of Honors College Students Compared To Non-Honors College Students Accounting For Prior Gifted Experience, Hannah C. Dewald, Allyson S. Graf

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

Student wellness is a growing concern among educators. Previous studies on the well-being of honors students as compared to other undergraduates result in mixed findings. This study examines the trajectory of gifted programming in education and specific challenges to the collegiate experience, presenting differences between honors students (N = 49) and non-honors peers (N = 138) using two well-being indicators (academic anxiety and academic self-efficacy) and three related factors (perceived past school competitiveness, maladaptive perfectionism, and pressure due to labeling). While authors posit that honors students may have higher academic anxiety and lower self-efficacy than those not enrolled …

Face-To-Face: A Sociologist Looks At College Students' Mental Health, Maureen Kelleher

Journal of the National Collegiate Honors Council Online Archive

While both individual honors programs and their broader campus communities have implemented new initiatives and intervention strategies to address undergraduate mental health, significant needs remain unmet and concerns unaddressed about the long-term implications for students. This paper provides a framework for understanding the current (2023) environment on many campuses by presenting national legislation that shapes campus response, offering cases of specific institutional responses to crisis, and exploring the impact of face-to-face interaction between faculty and students in classrooms. Awareness of these three levels of response—national, campus, and classroom—equips and empowers the honors community to understand and effectively deal with myriad …

A Dynamic Alternative: Alumnus Thrives In International Trade Compliance, Catherine Deyarmond

Black History at St. Mary's University - 2025 Collection

Alum Robert Dunlap reflects on his time at St. Mary’s University in the International Relations Joint Degree Program and how it has set him up for his success in his chosen field. Dunlap’s dedication to his education and work has paid dividends in his professional career, allowing him to work in a San Antonio manufacturing business with ties to Mexico, but also for West Pharmaceutical Services, where he has handled new regulations impacting different sites around the world. Dunlap’s success is a shining example of the possibilities of an education at St. Mary's University, but also how alternatives to a …

Middle School Administrators' Perceptions And Processes In Supporting Their Teachers And Students, Moses K. Ochanji, Roxanne Greitz Miller, Benjamin E. Seipel, Erika Daniels, Rong-Ji Chen

Education Faculty Books and Book Chapters

This paper explores the perceptions and processes of middle school administrators in California regarding the support for their students and teachers. Through semi-structured interviews, the study reveals how administrators conceptualize their roles, determine student needs, and ensure the provision of appropriate support. Key findings highlight the importance of a student-centered approach, the integration of social-emotional learning, and the significance of equity and inclusion in middle school leadership. These findings have implications for policy and practice, particularly in the context of professional development for middle school administrators.

Empowering Excellence: A Strategic Plan For Faculty Mentoring And Professional Growth, April Moore

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

Effective teacher mentoring programs play a critical role in improving teacher retention, professional development, and mental health support. This school improvement plan outlines a structured mentoring program implemented in the Murray Community School District, emphasizing mentor-mentee pairings, regular check-ins, and sustained support beyond the first year of teaching. By integrating emotional and professional guidance, the program addresses challenges such as teacher burnout and job dissatisfaction, which are prevalent in early career educators. Key components include professional goal setting, mental health resources, and fostering a collaborative school culture. Preliminary results indicate that structured mentoring significantly enhances teacher satisfaction, confidence, and long-term …

Implementation Of Capturing Kids’ Hearts And Its Role In Creating A Student Council, Jennifer Pedersen

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

This school improvement plan focuses on enhancing student leadership, behavior, academic success, and connectedness at Logan-Magnolia Elementary by implementing Capturing Kids’ Hearts in connection with a student council initiative. The plan aims to cultivate a positive school culture that supports students’ social, emotional, and academic development by fostering meaningful teacher-student relationships and providing leadership opportunities. Grounded in research, this initiative establishes relationship-building strategies and leadership development while addressing key challenges such as behavioral trends, student engagement, and a lack of connectedness to the school community. Anticipated outcomes include decreased behavioral issues, improved academic achievement, and stronger student ties to the …

Implementing A Math Intervention Program: A School Improvement Plan, Rylie Conway

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

This school improvement plan addresses the persistent issue of low math proficiency among elementary students at Cardinal Elementary School, where only 57% of students in grades 2-4 met proficiency on the 2024 fall aMath screener. Research highlights the significance of early math interventions, which can prevent long-term academic struggles and enhance foundational skills. The plan proposes a targeted math intervention program grounded in Multi-Tiered Support System (MTSS) framework, incorporating evidence-based strategies. Key objectives include improving math proficiency, reducing achievement gaps, and fostering confidence in students’ mathematical abilities. This project emphasizes data-driven decision-making, professional development, and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure …

Impact Of Total Participation Techniques On Student Achievement, Ashley Zacharias

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

The purpose of this action research project was to determine if incorporating total participation techniques into a fifth-grade literacy classroom would increase reading comprehension scores. This researcher was driven to find a teaching strategy that would boost student engagement, participation and academic achievement. It has been proven that student centered learning increases student participation. Evidence has shown increasing student participation and engagement leads to an increase in academic achievement. A quantitative study was used to determine the effectiveness of total participation techniques in a fifth-grade literacy classroom. Comprehension assessment data was collected and analyzed. Data analysis revealed 84% of participants …

Fostering Positive School Climate: A Strategic Plan For Implementing Pbis With Fidelity In Elementary Schools, Kelli Hulin

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

This school improvement plan for a K-5 elementary school focuses on the critical need for the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) with fidelity. PBIS is a research-based framework which promotes positive behavior, enhances school climate, and improves student outcomes by creating a consistent and supportive environment for all learners. Despite the growing body of evidence supporting PBIS, many schools struggle to implement the program effectively, resulting in inconsistent outcomes and diminished impact on student behavior. This plan outlines a comprehensive strategy for embedding PBIS within the school’s culture, emphasizing staff training, consistent practice, and ongoing data monitoring …

Social Emotional Learning And Positive Impact Of Students Who Have Faced Trauma, Brittany Meyers

Master's Theses & Capstone Projects

Schools across the country have students who have faced some type of trauma in their lives that then affects their behavior in school. Thus, their behavior affects how they interact with their peers and teachers. Therefore, teaching implicit instruction for social-emotional learning to students who have faced trauma, and all students will help the way that students interact with their peers. Research has shown that students who receive social emotional learning instruction will positively impact their behavior including emotional, academic, and how they interact with their peers. This study aims to identify the effectiveness of social emotional learning and if …

Psychological Distress Among Ethnically Diverse Participants From Eastern And Southern Africa, Kester Tindi, Allan Kalungi, Eugene Kinyanda, Bizu Gelaye, Alicia Martin, Ronald Galiwango, Wilber Ssembajjwe, Fred Kirumira, Adele Pretorius, Lukoye Atwoli

Internal Medicine, East Africa

Importance: Psychological distress is characterized by anxiety and depressive symptoms. Although prior research has investigated the occurrence and factors associated with psychological distress in low- and middle-income countries, including those in Africa, these studies’ findings are not very generalizable and have focused on different kinds of population groups.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and characteristics (sociodemographic, psychosocial, and clinical) associated with psychological distress among African participants.

Design, setting and participants: This case-control study analyzed data of participants in the Neuropsychiatric Genetics in African Populations-Psychosis (NeuroGAP-Psychosis) study, which recruited from general outpatient clinics in Eastern (Uganda, Kenya, and Ethiopia) and Southern …

El Campanario (Volume 1, Issue 1), St. Mary's University

Honors Program Newsletters

No abstract provided.

The Independence And Empowerment Of International Criminal Tribunals, Peter Koelling

St. Mary's Journal on Legal Malpractice & Ethics

No abstract provided.

New Opportunities Transfer: Transfer Student Finds Invaluable Resources, Shared Community At St Mary's University, Michelle Mondo

Black History at St. Mary's University - 2025 Collection

Transferring to a new University can pose many questions, such as how someone will fit into their new community, or if it will help them in their overall goals, for A’marie Pollard, St. Mary’s University was able to answer those questions and then some. After transferring to St. Mary’s University as a junior, Pollard was able to take part in the Eugene Scassa Mock Organization of American States Summit, an opportunity not available at her previous university. In addition to that, Pollard commends the St. Mary’s Staff for their support during a time of hardship. St. Mary’s focus on community …

Strategies For Prevention And Management Of Non-Communicable Diseases Among Community Women In Nigeria: Insights For Family Social Welfare, Abiola Adiat Omokhabi Dr

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

In this study, modifiable risk factors, prevention and management plans for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among women were examined. This study examined published and grey literature that was gathered from a number of sources, such as open data portals on the five major illness categories that make up the NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes, malignancies, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health. Literature shows that the primary behavioural risk factors for NCDs, including CVDs, diabetes, and cancer(malignancies), can be largely avoided. Inactivity, tobacco use, alcohol use, and unhealthy eating habits (often high in processed sugar, fats, and salt) are a …

Voices From The Classroom: A Qualitative Study Of Teachers' Perspectives On Student Depression, Naomi Brinton, Jacqlyn Zarabba, Linda Mcwhorter, Linda Knauss

Journal of Human Services: Training, Research, and Practice

Rising levels of depression among adolescents is an important issue to teachers and school administrators, as teenagers spend the majority of their time in the school environment. By analyzing individual interviews with 15 public high school teachers using a modified grounded theory approach, this qualitative study examines the role high school teachers might play in identifying and referring students who exhibit signs and symptoms of depression. Results provide guidance for high school teachers in connecting students with appropriate services and identifying common barriers and facilitating factors in this process. Specific recommendations are outlined to help aid schools in the identification …

The Impact Of Client Education Videos On Stroke Rehabilitation: An Educational Video Series, Sydney Ellis, Lesley Khan-Farooqi Phd, Otd, Otr

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Stroke is one of the leading causes of severe disability and death in the United States. During the initial stage of recovery, clients receive stroke education to learn about what their new reality looks like after discharge; however, many clients feel that the education provided, although appreciated, was not inclusive to all individuals and only occurred one time. This led to difficulties in knowledge retention and acquisition. Although there is a plethora of educational resources available there seems to be a lack of carryover and understanding of information obtained from these resources, this leaves the client wondering how they can …

Outcomes Of An Educational Series For Latino Entrepreneurs In Utah, Celina Wille

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

Latino-owned businesses represent one of the fastest-growing sectors of the U.S. economy. Critical to the success of Latino entrepreneurs are enhanced access to capital and education in best practices such as financial management and customer engagement. Utah State University (USU) Extension, in collaboration with Latino Entrepreneurs of Northern Utah (ELNU), developed and delivered a targeted educational series in fall 2021 and spring 2022. The series effectively increased participants’ knowledge and satisfaction, with a final survey showing 47% to 60% of participants planning to adopt new business practices. The initiative highlights the importance of tailored educational programs in empowering Latino business …

Nourishtank: Participant Experiences And Feedback, Palak Gupta, Heidi Leblanc, Lea Palmer

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

NourishTank is a shark-style competition that empowers students to develop innovative, sustainable solutions for combating hunger and ensuring food security. Following the inaugural NourishTank event, participants provided valuable feedback, including an enhanced understanding of hunger issues, improved hard and soft skills, and expressed interest in volunteering. Feedback emphasized academic and personal network channels for awareness and suggestions for improvement related to program refinement and expansion of outreach efforts.

Evaluating The "What's Up Down South" Economic Summit: Transforming Feedback Into Value And Relevance, Paul A. Hill

Outcomes and Impact Quarterly

This article explores the impact of the "What's Up Down South" economic summit. Reviewing post-2023 summit changes reveals how adjustments address southern Utah's diverse business needs. Findings show greater attendee satisfaction, increased capacity, and demographic diversity, confirming the summit's role in economic development.