HIGH POINT, N.C., April 23, 2021 – The Ninth Annual High Point University Research and Creativity Symposium (High-PURCS) began April 19 and runs until May 3. Held in a virtual format, students presented research on topics that range from biology to visual art.
“High-PURCS is an opportunity for students to showcase their projects so other students, faculty, staff, family and the public can witness our students’ professional development and gain a glimpse of tomorrow’s future leaders, artists, scientists, teachers and scholars,” said Dr. Joanne Altman, director of Undergraduate Research and Creative Works and professor of psychology. “Our students’ achievements reflect their resilience and courage coupled with the dedication of our caring faculty. Our students undertake significant work in intellectual and creative endeavors mentored by faculty.”
The symposium features 114 students who were mentored by 42 faculty from 20 different fields across all of High Point University’s academic schools. These types of experiences and learning opportunities emphasize students’ knowledge and life skills that employer’s value.
Billy Mathias, a junior majoring in neuroscience, won the Scholarly Interdisciplinary Research Grant (SIRG) for his project “Mu Opioid receptor signaling in Neurofibromatosis Type 1.” He will conduct research with Dr. Robert Coover and Dr. Scott Hemby in the Fred Wilson School of Pharmacy. He is the third recipient of this grant.
Heather Simmons, a senior education major, received best oral presentation for her project titled “A Review of the Education and Diagnosis of English Language.” Her mentor was Dr. Sarah Vess, associate dean of the Stout School of Education.
Taylor Lynch, a sophomore computer science major, was awarded the best poster presentation for her project, “Measuring System Utilization During a SlowLoris Laboratory.” Her mentor was Dr. Jason Pittman, associate professor of computer science.
Victoria Romero, senior media production major, was presented the best creative arts presentation for her project “Autumn’s Song Music Video.” Joe Michaels, HPU’s Broadcaster in Residence, served as her mentor.
Kenzie DeLongis, Harris Goldstein, Lexi Jack, Keilah Moore, Anastazia Novembre, and Hannah Wilhite were recognized with certificates and medallions as research apprentices.
The link to this event is https://symposium.foragerone.com/high-purcs2021