Location: Birkeland Lounge | Theme: Voices & Representation
C15. “Student Publications Importance On A College Campus”
Time: 11:25 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Session Type: Panel
Student Presenter(s): Kay Erickson, Paige Naughton, Desarae Kohrs
Mentored by: Erin Hemme Froslie
”Abstract”
Our panel will focus on how student media functions and serves a college campus. Representatives from The Concordian, Cord On-Air and Kord Radio will discuss how student media works and why it is important. We plan to talk about the roles student journalists play on college campuses and why they are still relevant in the world of social media. In addition we will talk about the ways the three entities have collaborated, and the benefits of working together for better news coverage. Our goal is to inform the college community about journalistic practices and how that can enrich their college experience.
Location: ISC 201 | Theme: Food Health & Social Responsibility
C16. “The Digital Space as a Tool for the Democratization of Suppressed Knowledge”
Time: 11:25 – 11:45 a.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Tasha Branden
Mentored by: Dr. Rebecca Stewart-Gray
”Abstract”
The present paper draws on Heritage & Museum Studies and German Studies to demonstrate how three digital-archival resources – the Bad Arolsen Archives, The Holocaust Encyclopedia, and the Ziering-Conlon Initiative for Recovered Voices – serve as models for increasing accessibility to knowledge and for facilitating the reclamation of narrative agency for suppressed communities, thereby responding to the systematic isolation and alienation of suppressed peoples historically practiced by archives and museums. These digital-archival resources actively respond to the prolonged effects of the National Socialist regime’s suppression and censorship of information that it deemed damaging to the party and the systemic erasure of any historical sign of the existence of entire communities through genocide. This paper will assess how each resource utilizes digital tools to address their goals, what infrastructure exists to support these goals, e.g., funding, labor, public visibility, and how it supports or limits their scope and impact. The projects’ goals vary from performing and promoting suppressed music to providing the public with access to articles and digitized collections, lesson plans, oral histories, and videos; to investigating the fates of those affected by the Holocaust. Despite their diverse goals, these projects represent a broader contemporary effort to reimagine traditional archival practice and professional norms. By breaking down and analyzing the model methods implemented by the aforementioned digital-archival resources, this paper serves as the beginning of a blueprint for organizations in the GLAM (galleries, libraries, archives, and museum) fields that aim to democratize knowledge, record cultural memory, and support international cultures of remembrance.
C17. “Effectiveness and Engagement in Virtual Education and Work”
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Location: ISC 201 | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Graycin Wanzek
Mentored by: Bree Langemo, J.D.
”Abstract”
I am a Barry Scholar and throughout my two years of research, I have been studying “Effectiveness and Engagement in Virtual Education and Work.” This topic was very relevant exiting the COVID period, and now has become a foundation for many schools and businesses. My project started as a discussion about whether virtual education and work is necessary and possible, into a continuation of learning how to make remote education and work more productive and communicating that to others. My thesis is that as we continue to transition to remote education and work, students, professors, employees, and managers must be proactive in addressing challenges and developing solutions to make it an effective working and learning environment. My research process has included interviews with professionals, discussion with the Global Leadership Council, reading academic sources, and surveying students, professors, employees, and supervisors. I have collected information to gain an understanding about the challenges individuals face with remote work and school, compared with what I have learned through academic research and experience. I am developing solutions for these challenges to better prepare students for remote education and work.
Location: ISC 260 | Theme: Knots & Threads
C18. “A Virtual Tool for Virtual Knots”
Time: 11:25 – 11:45 a.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Emily Liddell, Matej Kozanek
Mentored by: Dr. Sarah Seger
”Abstract”
Knot theory is broadly the study of knots. Knot theory is a subfield of low-dimensional topology with connections to quantum field theory, disentangling DNA strands, optimization of quantum computing, and many more. Virtual Knot theory was only introduced in 1999, and, as such, there are large research gaps in the field. One such gap in the research is the lack of a tool to determine knot invariants, or ways to tell if two knots are different from each other. It’s very important that these tools exist because it’s difficult to differentiate between knots; for example, there was one knot that was believed to be two unique knots for decades until they were proven to be the same knot! While online tables of knot invariants exist, they are not interactable, nor do they calculate any knot invariants based in user input. We aimed to fill this gap with our research to create a web tool that calculates a variety of knot invariants for any knot the user can dream up. We used a variety of programing languages to create this tool including Python, Mathematica, and PHP. The algorithm we created calculates knot invariants and stores these on a database to build a robust table of invariants. This website will be made publicly available as a resource for use in further knot theory research.
C19. “Characterization of IL-6 Cytokines in the Rat Supraoptic Nucleus”
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Connor Sturges, Alisha Debleye, Ian Scheele, Tembo Chilala, Julia Wolf
Mentored by: Dr. Jason Askvig
”Abstract”
Post-injury responses in the peripheral nervous system are common. However, injury-induced plasticity in the central nervous system is rare. Interestingly, following injury, uninjured axons from the supraoptic nucleus (SON) undergo collateral sprouting in the 35-day-old rat. We have evidence suggesting that a member of the IL-6 cytokine family, CNTF, plays a role in the axonal sprouting. CNTF uses a tripartite receptor complex consisting of LIFR beta, gp130, and CNTF receptor alpha. In the SON, astrocytes contain all the CNTF receptor components, demonstrating that CNTF must act indirectly through astrocytes to promote axonal spouting. However, the neurons of the SON contain LIFR beta and gp130, which other members of the IL-6 family of cytokines use in their signaling. This led us to investigate the expression of IL-6 cytokines in the SON using western blot and dual fluorescent analyses. We looked at IL-6, LIF, CLC, and IL-11 in the SON of uninjured rats. Our results were inconclusive – we did not observe protein bands of any IL-6 cytokine via western blot. We observed staining in the SON of the proteins of interest, with all proteins present in the SON neurons. The discrepancy in the results may be due to antibodies that can only detect proteins with the dual fluorescent technique. Future experiments must be performed to replicate these analyses and determine if separate antibodies need to be utilized for varying techniques.
Location: ISC 301 | Theme: Potential & Frustration
C20. “’Neuro-solidarity’: Exploring the Union of Experiential Learning and Social Justice towards Creating Spaces of Intergenerational Healing and Resiliency”
Time: 11:25 – 11:45 a.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Timea Vrabcová
Mentored by: Dr. Joe Underhill, Augsburg University
”Abstract”
“Neuro-solidarity” is a theoretical educational framework addressing the well-being of those affected by systemic oppression, exploring experiential learning, storytelling, and social justice for empathetic education. Reflecting on Augsburg University’s River Semester, focused on the Mississippi River and its communities, the aim was to observe increased neural activity and alertness in nature. Engaging with educators, activists, and artists exposed students to environmental and social justice issues, emphasizing community healing through storytelling. This framework proposes planning experiential learning expeditions to address various forms of violence. Personal data from Mendi.io, a neurofeedback tool, was analyzed, revealing decreased cognitive engagement in natural settings, aligning with research on brain activity in nature. The findings suggest that being in nature induces a rest mode in the brain, advocating for nature-based learning complemented by educators addressing systemic issues.
C21. “Low Pitch or Low Self-Esteem? Verbal and Vocalic Manifestations of Self-worth”
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Zoey Zachek
Mentored by: Dr. Aileen Buslig
”Abstract”
While the effects of one’s self-esteem on psychological well-being have been widely studied, less attention has been given to the communicative manifestations of self-esteem. Research suggests that vocal qualities play a role in shaping others’ perceptions of one’s character. This raises the question of whether there is a connection between an individual’s self-perception of worth and how they consciously (or subconsciously) vocally communicate. The primary research questions for this study asked how verbal and vocalic communication characteristics were exhibited in those with high versus low self-esteem, as well as explored how those characteristics might change due to feelings of envy. Participants first completed the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and were then audio recorded talking about themselves and a person they envied. Recordings were transcribed and entered into the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count software to analyze the linguistic features such as positive/negative tone, use of filler words, and speaking rate. It was predicted that participants with lower self-esteem would use more negative tone, more filler words, and speak more slowly, and that envy would also elicit these verbal and vocal characteristics. Understanding common speech patterns linked to self-esteem offers valuable insights, enabling timely intervention and a deeper understanding of the physical manifestations of one’s self-esteem. This awareness can contribute to the development of strategies, including positive self-talk, aimed at improving mental health and easing feelings of envy. Ultimately, these strategies may not only benefit individuals internally but also positively impact first impressions in their interactions with others.
Location: Morrie Jones A-B | Theme: Community & Environment
C22. “The Community Behind the Music- An Ethnography on the Microcultures of Hvidsten”
Time: 11:25 – 11:45 a.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Macyn Speer
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
Concordia is home to a music program that boasts over 19 ensembles, a reputation of class and quality, and hundreds of extremely talented musicians. With music classes and lessons throughout the day and ensembles and chamber groups at night, Hvidsten, the music building, is often bustling with music students and the sounds of tireless practice. Through ethnographic research, I have immersed myself in the culture and comraderies of the music building and music majors. Research methods included participant observation in Hvidsten common spaces and hallways, interviews with faculty and students, and retrieving information about Concordia’s music program. The ethnographic work done was intended to provide a deeper understanding of the microculture and social patterns within Hvidsten. The music building itself lends an environment that feels removed from the rest of campus- resulting in a very close-knit community that is almost unknown to those outside of it. That said, I anticipate that my research will reveal the valuable relationships and immeasurable sense of community in Hvidsten unseen by a substantial portion of the student body. For members of the music world, I hope that my research will help them gain a better grasp on how the community they belong to functions and realize how unique it is.
C23. “Mysterious Manet: An Examination of Musical Paradoxes in Edouard Manet’s (1832-1883) The Spanish Singer (1860)”
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Lydia Repnow
Mentored by: Dr. Annett Richter
”Abstract”
In the second half of the nineteenth century, French realist artists began to acknowledge the fundamental paradox in depicting on canvas scenes from a fleeting world. Painters like Edouard Manet (1832-1883) incorporated subterfuge in their work to illustrate the complex challenge of illustrating reality. Through the analytical lens of music iconography, this paper investigates the veiled dichotomies in Manet’s The Spanish Singer (1860), an image that combines a portrait of a sprightly guitarist with still life objects associated with contemporary Spanish culture and painting. In this study, I argue that Manet uses the guitar and its performer to comment on the inherent incongruity between realist art and reality. Examples of this juxtaposition include the guitarist’s unbalanced playing position, his implausible right-hand technique, and his costume that suggests his status as an itinerant street performer. Drawing upon scholarly articles, books, and art exhibition catalogues, this paper problematizes the presence of Spanish still life components, the unconventional inverted depiction of the guitar, and the staged appearance of the musician engaged in singing and playing. Together, these aspects suggest that The Spanish Singer contributes to a larger artistic discourse in nineteenth-century France surrounding the nature of capturing reality and the transience of life.
Location: Morrie Jones C-D | Theme: Power & Reaction
C24. “It isn’t JUST HAIR”
Time: 11:25 – 11:45 a.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Hameedah Oladele
Mentored by: Dominic Meyers
”Abstract”
Discrimination can take many forms but the most overlooked realm it extends to is Hair. Hair discrimination like most things in America is rooted in historical injustices like Slavery. Despite legislative efforts like the 2019 Crown Act, progress remains slow on nationally addressing hair discrimination. Additionally peeling the layers back on hair discrimination history reveals how it was used as colonial justification and how it manifested in post-abolition tactics. However modern manifestations of hair discrimination, from sports to Hollywood underline its long lasting impact. The viral Andrew Johnson’s wrestling incident and actress Kat Graham’s experience on the hit series Vampire Diaries shows hair discrimination and the universal nature. Capitalization of hair Simply put, Hair, particularly Black Hair transcends its physical appearance, it serves as a powerful symbol of cultural identity and resistance. With this presentation I aim to explore the nuanced landscape of Black hair, hair discrimination, and emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and hopefully widespread systematic change.
C25. “How She Shoots: Women Empowerment Through Basketball”
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Hakima Amiri
Mentored by: Dr. Karla Knutson
”Abstract”
This presentation explores the evolving gender roles within the realm of women’s basketball. It delves into the psychological context of women’s participation in sports, specifically basketball, and how societal norms and expectations have shaped the full potential of female athletes. The study examines if women behave differently when in highly stressful situations and how they choose to express those emotions. Do they still cling to non-aggressive forms of communication or do they see the sport as a chance to behave without any gender restriction. The findings are a result of a 12 session participant- observation period along with interviews and additional research on female masculinity. The result expects to see women gaining confidence through basketball, mainly because it pushes them to break the gender roles they have been carved into. Though the gender roles may not be as noticeable as other cultures, being raised a woman has its impacts in much more subtle ways. From body language to mindset, womanhood is challenged in a physically aggressive sport like basketball.
Location: Olin 124 | Theme: Controversy & Empathy
C26. “Jean Genet : Énigme et écrivain”
Time: 11:25 – 11:45 a.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Rachel Andersen
Mentored by: Dr. Gay Rawson
”Abstract”
Jean Genet (1910 – 1986) était une grande force dans le monde littéraire français pendant le XXe siècle. Il est décrit comme « une des très grandes plumes françaises du XXe siècle » (Péroncel-Hugoz). D’ailleurs, il est décrit comme « délinquant, homosexuel, revendiqué, thuriféraire des grands criminels et des terroristes » (Bantigny et Jablonka). Quelques sources disent aussi que c’est possible que Genet n’était pas un homme très gentil, parce qu’il était peut-être fasciste, antisémite et il était fasciné par le nazisme (Bantigny et Jablonka). Dans son enfance, il était un enfant des paysans, orphelin, et il était assez pauvre. Genet était un criminel et un asocial, mais il était aussi écrivain. Il est décrit comme une rebelle et un anarchiste. Genet a beaucoup volé dans sa vie, donc il était en prison plusieurs fois pour le vol. Pendant qu’il était en prison, il a écrit Notre-Dame des Fleurs, une de ses œuvres les plus importantes. En fait, il a beaucoup écrit pendant qu’il était en prison, et quelques sources disent qu’il aimait la prison. Avec ses œuvres érotiques et obscènes, il est devenu un chef du théâtre d’avant-garde et il a changé le monde littéraire français. Genet a apporté de nouvelles perspectives au monde littéraire en France avec ses thèmes érotiques et obscènes. Pour montrer l’influence et l’histoire de Jean Genet, cette rédaction va explorer sa vie, les événements historiques de son époque, ses œuvres littéraires et mes réactions. Je vais explorer comment un asocial peut devenir un des écrivains les plus importants de l’histoire française.
English Summary: Jean Genet was a huge force in the French literary world during the 20th century. Even though he was a greta writer, he was also rather controversial in that he was cruel, rude, and antisemitic. He was a rebel and an anarchist. He spent a lot of time in prison; during this time we wrote some of his greatest works. His works changed the literary world with his new ideas and perspectives. This presentation will explore Genet’s life and his literary works that changed the French literary world. This project will explore how an antisocial criminal became one of France’s most celebrated writers.
C27. “LGBTQ+ Targeted Literary Censorship”
Time: 11:45 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. | Session Type: Classic
Student Presenter(s): Jessica Shaw
Mentored by: Dr. Amy Watkin
”Abstract”
LGBTQ+ targeted book banning is actively occurring in many states and communities in the United States. Last year in North Dakota, the threat of Senate Bill 2360 loomed over teachers and librarians, threatening to charge a class B misdemeanor even just for shelving most LGBTQ+ books. Where literature of privileged identities is consistently available to growing minds LGBTQ+ and other marginalized groups continue to be censored. This limitation diminishes the potential for gender equality to develop in society. I will discuss the motivations of literary censorship, how it has affected the LGBTQ+ community and how well-rounded reading inspires empathy, community building and a culturally aware society. Research methods used included, field research, listening to professionals such as librarians discuss the recent book banning legislation and what that looks like for libraries, and personal research and reading a variety of banned and challenged titles. The purpose of the presentation is to inform and produce a higher level of understanding that if literary censorship continues it will be harmful to the queer community additionally the general public’s literacy of queer material is at risk.