Current Scholars
Marcus Bailey 
Major: Psychology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Mary Louise Cashel, Associate Professor, Psychology
Research and Academic Interests
I am interested in studying the effects of bipilar disorder in adolescents. I am interested in the coping strategies they employ to bring balance to their lives. I know how hard it is to live with something such as bipolar disorder and I also understand the challenges children may face socially. It would be important to me to observe the social behaviors that teenagers exhibit with this disorder and how it shapes their everyday lives. Eventually, I would like to observe how young adults in college manage bipolar disorder.
Catrina Barber
Major: Special Education
College: College of Education & Human Services
Mentor: Morgan Chitiyo, Assistant Professor, Educational Psychology & Special
Education
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Autism in the Classroom: Exploring the Professional Development Needs of Teachers
Approximately 1 in 150 children representing various communities in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder (Autism Diagnosis, 2008). Most teachers will have at least one student with autism in their classroom during their career. However, many teachers do not have the necessary skills to provide appropriate and effective instruction to students with autism (Al-Shammari, Zaid, 2006). It is therefore, necessary to provide effective professional development among teachers in order to promote effective learning of students with autism. The purpose of this study was to explore the professional development needs of teachers who work with students who have autism and what challenges teachers face when teaching students with autism. In this study autism spectrum disorders were defined, concerns of teacher readiness to educate children with autism and the research to practice gap were discussed. Data was collected through a structured interview. The participants in this study were four special education teachers. From the responses given by the participants the study yielded important preliminary data which may help both teacher preparation and professional development personnel in designing effective programs.
Jeanette Coronado 
Major: English for Secondary Education
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Kathy Hytten, Chair and Associate Professor, Education Administration and Higher Education
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
The Experiences of Latinas in Graduate School
The purpose of this study was to explore factors that have contributed to the success of Latinas in higher education by looking at individual experiences as a means to identify key influences that motivated their success. Ultimately, the goal of the study was to provide insights that can enhance the experience of Latina/os in higher education. Over a period of eight weeks, I interviewed seven Latina graduate students who were selected via internet solicitation and snowball sampling. After transcription, I coded and analyzed the interviews in light of the Latino Critical Race Theory. Findings from the research provided three key themes attributed to the success of Latina women in higher education. Obstacles/barriers and sponsorship/mentorship where the two most prevalent themes while the theme of tokenism was also established in the interviews. Findings from this research can help increase the success of future Latina scholars.
Antwuan Donley
Major: Chemistry
College: College of Science
Mentor: Mary Elizabeth Kinsel, Associate Scientist, Chemistry
Research and Academic Interests
I am interested in conducting research in analytical chemistry using a mass spectrometer. I have always been interested in understanding the chemical components of everyday items like, air, food, and medicine. Joining the McNair Scholars Program will help increase my knowledge and research experience by allowing me to use new tools and techniques. Undergraduate research is the beginning stages of obtaining professional skills which will be essential in graduate school.
My ultimate educational and career goals are to earn a PhD in Chemistry and be in a position to market my own creations.
Charlie Dorsey 
Major: Speech Communication, specializing in Performance Studies
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Elyse Pineau, Associate Professor, Speech Communication
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
The (Re)Poetics of Hip Hop
This project examines the potential for using Hip Hop music, lyrics and performance traditions as a method of critical pedagogy. Drawing on scholarship in performance studies, arts-based education for social justice, and cultural studies, I designed and shared an interactive workshop that explored Hip Hop as "aesthetic communication" that can help develop voice, agency, and identity within individuals and communities who have been historically marginalized, particularly within mainstream education. By (re)visioning Hip Hop as a powerful poetic vehicle of social change, this project contributes to the theory and practice of teaching for social justice.
Krymese Frazier 
Major: Psychology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Peggy Stockdale, Professor, Applied Psychology; Director of Applied Psychology Program
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
A Comparison of Sexual Harassment Policies of Public and Private Universities in Illinois
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that is prohibited by both Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1991 (addressing employment discrimination) and by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (addressing discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funds). This study used content analysis to examine the sexual harassment policies at ten universities in the state of Illinois. The purpose of this study was to understand how such institutions craft their policies. A coding system was developed to analyze each policy on a number of elements, including manifest content, latent content, victim perspective, accused perspective, and the institutional liability perspective. By reviewing the sexual harassment policies of other similar state universities, we identified the key elements that are essential and appropriate in a sexual harassment policy for an institution such as SIUC. My results suggest that both public and private institutions use federal legal definitions of sexual harassment and emphasize the themes of fairness and prevention. The two types of institutions differ in terms of the language used in their policies, their length, and the complexity of their policies.
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Diamond Garner
Major: Accounting
College: College of Business & Adminstration
Mentor: Ramon Rodriguez, Assistant Professor, AccountancyResearch and Academic Interests
I am interested in learning more about federal taxation. I would like to learn more about taxation policy and how funds are distributed to different branches of government. I also would like to gage public opinion about taxes by interviewing citizens from different socio-economic levels to learn more about their views on paying taxes. After receiving my master’s degree, I plan to enter the workforce for three to five years to get some hands-on experience in the field. Then, I plan on returning to school to obtain a PhD in Accounting and become a professor.
Jonaté Govan
Major: Health Education
College: College of Education and Human Services
Mentor: Mark Kittleson, Professor, Health Education and Recreation
Summer Research Institute 2008 Abstract:
Understanding Binge Drinking Among Football Players at a Midwestern 1AA University
Numerous studies have been conducted to find out why college students frequently consume high levels of alcohol and what health educators can do to address this issue. However, only a few studies have been done to examine this issue within the athletic community. This qualitative study investigates the relationship between college football players and binge drinking. The participants consisted of eight football players at a division 1AA Midwestern University. Each participant took part in an independent semi-structured interview protocol by answering a series of open ended questions. The data was transcribed and then the contexts were analyzed by coding common themes and making contrasts and comparisons. The findings indicated that the athletes’ higher rates of binge drinking are because of their isolated social environment.
Tamara John
Major: Radio/Television and Spanish
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Beverly Love, Assistant Professor, Radio/TV
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Black Male Stereotypes in Modern American Film: A Content Analysis
This project investigates the extent to which Hollywood continues to use three predominant historical archetypes--the Buck, the Coon, and the Tom (Bogle, 2001)--when casting black males in contemporary films. The study critically examines the 2008 blockbuster film Hancock, starring actor Will Smith, a well-known black actor. A qualitative analysis approach was used to identify and interpret the film in order to ascertain whether traits of the three archetypes historically played by black males are present in modern day cinema. The analysis largely supports that negative images of black males are still prevalent in today’s films. These images are harmful and reinforce racial and cultural stereotypes, thus perpetuating negative feelings and fear of black males. As this study demonstrates, it is important to continue to examine film in order to make positive changes for the future
Ashley Jordan 
Major: Psychology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Meera Komarraju, Assistant Professor, Applied Psychology
Research and Academic Interests
I am interested examining the relationship between student on-campus employment and academic achievement. Many students struggle to balance academics, work, and their social life. Studies show that more than half of enrolled students work while attending school (Miller, Danner & Staten, 2008). Retentions specialists suggest that students who work long hours are more likely to drop out and never earn their degree. I think this research can help administrators create policies and programming that addresses this issue.
My ultimate educational and career goals are to earn a PhD in Industrial/Organization Psychology.
Levell Mables
Major: Marketing
College: College of Business and Administration
Mentor: Suzanne Nasco, Associate Professor, Marketing
Summer Research Institute 2008 Abstract:
Examining Consumer Perceptions of Saluki Athletics
The purpose of this research project is to measure SIU sports fans’ motivation by using the Motivation Scale for Sport Consumption (MSSC) and the Public-Private Athletic Identity Scale (PPAIS) to better understand segments of their fan base. Trail and James (2001) created the MSSC scale which measures the motivations of the sport fan consumptive behavior. Although the scale is not perfect, it shows good reliability and validity while others scales developed had weaknesses in content, criterion, and construct validity. In addition to the MSSC, another scale that will be used in the present study is Nasco and Webb (2006) Public Private Athletic Identity Scale (PPAIS). This scale is intended to measure an individual’s personal athletic identity divided into public and private dimensions. Along with the literature cited, I will include questions that will aim to get a better understanding of ticket buyer’s perceptions of SIU sports. These questions will be directly related to the depth and breadth of involvement that ticket buyers have with Saluki Athletics. The questions will aim to get a better understanding of how the ticket buyers perceive SIU sporting events and can be used by Saluki Athletics to better tailor their marketing and customer relationship efforts.
Jere Mitchell 
Major: Sociology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: To be DeterminedResearch and Academic Interests
I am interested in exploring juvenile delinquency. I am curious about what makes young children turn to violence and if there is hope for changing their behavior. I believe that Sociology is the best way for me to search for these answers. Sociology will allow me to look at the environment and examine the relationship between demographic factors like race, class, gender, education, and occupational status on juvenile delinquency. My ultimate educational goal is to earn a doctorate in Sociology.
Koleshcia Nelson
Major: Psychology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Paul Etcheverry, Assistant Professor, Psychology
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Watching what you say: The Contents of Disclosure to Friends About Romantic Relationships
This study is an interview based analysis of romantic relationship disclosure. This project examined thecontent of romantic relationship disclosure between a member of a romantic relationship and a friend, specifically what type of information and accuracy of the information presented. The participants were eight students of a Midwestern university involved in a romantic relationship. Participants were asked a structured set of questions inquiring about the types and accuracy of information they disclosed to a particular friend. Results show participants disclosed eight types of information, including positive disclosures like events and relationship characteristics and negative disclosures relationship problems and getting married. Participants reported being partially inaccurate at least some of the time. Findings suggest individuals in romantic relationships attempt to manage friend perceptions by filtering information during acts of disclosure to social network members
Elizabeth Patterson 
Major: Biological Sciences
College: College of Science
Mentor: Buffy Ellsworth,
Assistant Professor, Physiology
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Foxd1, and Its Role in Pituitary Morphology During Embryonic Development
Congenital pituitary hormone deficiencies occur in approximately one out of every 4000 live births, resulting in various pathologies including sex reversal, and infertility. Hormone deficiencies that are caused by transcription factor defects tend to be syndromic, accompanied most often by craniofacial abnormalities. A recently discovered family of transcription factors known as forkhead factors are essential for diverse developmental processes and are responsible for numerous human developmental disorders. Forkhead transcription factors play a major role in organ development and represent important candidate genes for congenital pituitary diseases. The forkhead transcription factor, Foxd1, is expressed in the mesenchyme surrounding the pituitary during development. This mesenchyme is a source of growth factors, such as Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP), which are essential for normal pituitary development. Therefore, we hypothesize that Foxd1 is important for production of these growth factors and ultimately for normal pituitary development. To determine the role of Foxd1 in pituitary development, we analyzed the pituitary phenotype of Foxd1 knockout mice (Foxd1lacZ/lacZ)[1, 2]. Pituitary morphology is normal in Foxd1lacZ/lacZ mouse embryos at age embryonic day(e)18.5; however, preliminary results suggest that the pituitary exhibits developmental delay at e10.5 and dysmorphology at e14.5. Expression of the anterior pituitary hormones, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), growth hormone (GH), and a-glycoprotein hormone subunit (aGSU) are normal in Foxd1lacZ/lacZ mouse embryos at e18.5. Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1), a transcription factor that is required for normal pituitary development, is expressed normally at e14.5 in Foxd1lacZ/lacZ mouse embryos, as is aGSU. However, ACTH in Foxd1lacZ/lacZ mice is over expressed. In light of these data, we conclude that Foxd1 is important for early events of pituitary formation and function, but not for events after e14.5.
Aléc Perry
Major: Communication Disorders and Sciences
College: College of Education and Human Services
Mentor: Shawna Pope, Clinical Instructor, Rehabilitation Institute
Summer Research Institute 2008 Abstract:
Assessment of Cross-Cultural Adaptability of Graduate Students in Communication Disorders and Sciences
As a member of a “helping profession”, it is essential that practitioners are both aware of and able to adapt to the needs of clients belonging to cultures other than their own. Failure to incorporate cultural considerations into speech therapy may lead to poor client outcomes. Therefore, this study utilize the Cross-Cultural Adaptability Inventory (CCAI) to examine the cultural adaptability of 18 continuing graduate students enrolled in the communication disorders and sciences program at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. The CCAI is a culture-general standardized self-assessment instrument used to assess “one’s ability to adapt to any culture,” which consists of 50 items used to measure the cross cultural adaptability of participants on 4 subscales that include emotional resilience, flexibility/openness, perceptual acuity, and personal autonomy. The data was ran through SPSS and generated information on cultural adaptability as it relates to participants’ age, ethnicity, education status, and participation in a teacher education program.
Sarah Pitcher
Major: Sociology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Michelle Miller, Associate Professor, Sociology
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Secondary Victim Advocates in the Latino Community: A Qualitative Test of the Ecological Model of Victim Advocacy
This project explores the role of workers serving as secondary advocates who operate as peripheral staff to domestic violence issues in the Latino community in Southern Illinois. Interviews with key members of the Latino community examined the interactions that take place among secondary advocates, victims, and support networks. Interviews also exposed some of the particular characteristics that hinder advocacy, as well as those that facilitate advocacy in some way, by applying an ecological model to advocates’ interactions. The examination of intervention patterns and advocates’ roles in the community revealed the most readily available and most utilized resources in the domestic violence support network for this population. Interviews illustrate several culturally-specific obstacles, such as communication barriers and the effect of the cultural value placed on family. Cultural resistance to help-seeking behavior, based mainly on specific fears, reduced the utilization of government-based help resources. These fears often revolved around legal status concerns, but also a culturally learned rejection of law-based intervention. Implications for more effective advocacy include more bilingual workers who are culturally sensitive, as well as a larger support network that works with secondary advocates and helps accommodate victims’ primary needs more comprehensively would like to research the variables that affect the self-esteem of women aged 9-19. Possible variables to consider include: family influences, socio-economic status, living environment, and lived experiences. I plan to obtain a Ph.D. in Social Work. My ultimate educational and career goal is to one day be considered a successful women’s advocate who has contributed significantly to the improvement of women’s struggles.
Malcolm Slack 
Major: Business
College: College of Business
Mentor: Jim Musumeci, Chair and Associate Professor, Finance
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
A Examination of How College Students Received Financial Aid Information While They Were in High School
The goal of this project was to assess the effectiveness of high schools in disseminating financial aid information about college to their students. My research questions were: (1) Where and how do high school students obtain their financial aid information? (2) What could schools/guidance counselors do to better provide financial aid information to high school students? We surveyed 106 college students at a Midwestern University. My results indicate that parents are the main source of financial aid information. Additionally, we found that guidance counselors do not play significant role in providing financial aid information to students. Further research should focus on determining the role of guidance counselors in disseminating financial aid information to high school students.
Patrick Smith 
Major: Speech Communication, specialization in Performance Studies
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Derrick Williams, Coordinator, Student Health Center and Elyse Pineau, Associate Professor, Speech Communication
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
I Testify: Bearing Witness to Christian Black Masculinity
The Black church has long been recognized as a space for personal growth and spiritual development. “Bearing witness” or “testifying” is a common practice found in Black churches as a way to profess, educate, reflect, and share personal demonstrations of spirituality within a collective experience. The Black church can play a vital role in establishing dialogue amongst its congregations about the importance of spirituality and its connection to fatherhood responsibility. In this research project I argue that the Black church can use spiritual testimonies in performance to engage Christian Black men. I chronicle my journey in developing a personal spiritual testimony about fatherhood to share among Christian Black men at a local church. This study is an introspective analysis of self-narrative performance. It draws upon the themes of the Spirituality, the Black Church, and Self Narrative.
LaCharles Ward 
Major: Psychology
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Rachel Griffin, Assistant Professor, Speech Communication
Research and Academic Interests
I am interested in the how African American males form their identity. I am particularly interested in how their socio-economic status influences their self-concept. I hope by exploring these issues I will gain more insight into how to rebuild our communities.
De’Angelo Williams 
Major: Cinema & Photography
College: Mass Comm. & Media Arts
Mentor: Jyotsna Kapur, Associate Professor, Cinema and Photography
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Who takes whom? Identity Politics against Institutional Power in Spike Lee’s Bamboozled
This study analyzes Spike Lee’s controversial film Bamboozled (2000), for its representation of race and class and evaluates the extent to which the film offers an alternative politics. I situate this analysis in the history of black representation in Hollywood, both at the level of authors and images, and discuss how Spike Lee resolves the tensions of being a black filmmaker in an industry primarily devoted to making profit, often at the expense of perpetuating racist and capitalistic ideology. This work, which is grounded in film/media history and critical-cultural theory, considers cinema as a historical artifact which can help explain the nature of power in society. I establish connections between Lee and previous generations of black filmmakers in order to understand the constraints and possibilities open to black filmmakers in the contemporary culture industry where black film and television has emerged as a niche market. My analysis is based in Marxist theories of culture. I find the film to be both a powerful confirmation and critique of postmodern culture: its protagonist, who sets off to manipulate the culture industry, ends up taking his own life. My analysis discusses Bamboozled from three perspectives: the consumption of blackface, African American self commodification, and a victory (in the film) for the proletariat class over the bourgeois class.
Nefeteri Williams 
Major: Social Work
College: College of Education and Human Services
Mentor: Laura Drueth Zeman, Assoicate Professor, Social Work
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Reconsidering Insurance Markets to Maximize Social Welfare: Medicaid through Young Adult and Current Public Policy Frameworks
This project examines the young adult risk pool in the market of health insurance through the data of the Illinois Medicaid handbook. In order to find a fit between young adult needs and Illinois Medicaid we developed a framework of young adult needs merged with the proposed framework that President Obama and his administration developed to address current health care reform. Then a content analysis of the Illinois Medicaid handbook allowed us to test out the framework. The findings disclose how young adults needs can be meet through current health care polices. Additionally if policy changes occur, they should address the gaps in health care coverage that individuals already have.
Ashley Wilson
Major: Political Science
College: College of Liberal Arts
Mentor: Laura Hatcher, Assistant Professor, Political Science
Summer Research Institute 2009 Abstract:
Neighborhood Tracks: Railroads and the Construction of Space in Chicago 1887-1917
Eminent domain is the power of the state to take property for public usage. By analyzing primary documents, this project uncovers the relationship between the ordinances and the exercise of eminent domain . Also, it provides the basis for evaluating how these laws contributed to the structure of neighborhoods and communities in Chicago. This project contributes to the growing body of research in critical legal geography, which concerns itself with understanding the formation of racialized spaces through law and politics. The research presented here contributes to our knowledge of the ways in which commerce and the government power to take land combined through law benefiting the railroads to geographically and sociologically structure Chicago neighborhoods.