Let Your Dreams Take Wing
GREAT PLAINS HONORS
COUNCIL
April 7-8, 2006
Co-hosted by
Texas Tech University
and
Lubbock Christian University
On the Texas Tech University Campus
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The conference hotel is the Clarion (formerly the Sheraton Four Points), located at the
corner of Avenue Q and Mac Davis Lane (Fifth Street).
How to get there
If you are arriving by air the hotel offers limited shuttle service in an 8-passenger van. If
you have a small group, call the hotel from the airport and plan to wait for about 30
minutes if the van is available. If you are impatient or have a larger group, an alternate is
to arrange a pick-up with one of the local limousine services. Taxis are also available and
sometimes are waiting for a fare at the airport. Cost to ride from the airport to the hotel
should run around $15.00.
White Knights Limousine (806) 771-5466
Limousines of Lubbock (806) 743-5466
Royal Coach Towne Car Service (806) 795-3688
Yellow Cab (806) 765-7777
If you are driving, the hotel is easy to find.
From the north or from the airport follow I-27 to the Avenue Q exit (6A). This exit will
take you directly to the hotel. The second stop light is Fourth Street. The hotel is one
block beyond on the left (east) side.
From the south or southeast (US 84 or US 87) the easiest route is to get on I-27 north and
follow it to the Fourth Street Exit. Follow Fourth Street west to Avenue Q (approximately
one mile) and turn left. The hotel will be one block from the intersection on the left.
From the east (US 62, US 82, or Texas 114) follow US 82, which becomes Fourth Street.
Turn left at Avenue Q and proceed one block. The hotel will be on your left.
From the west, US 84 intersects with Avenue Q. Follow Avenue Q one block to Fourth
Street. Go straight one block. The hotel will be on the left. If you are coming in on US
62, US 82, or Texas 114, there is a large freeway project that has disrupted traffic flow.
Follow US 82 to Fourth Street, proceed to Avenue Q. Turn right on Avenue Q. The hotel
is one block south on the left.
Getting to the university.
From the Clarion Hotel, the easiest way to get to Texas Tech University is to turn left
(south) on Avenue Q. Follow Avenue Q to Broadway. Turn right (west) on Broadway.
This street leads directly to the main entrance of the university. Pass through the entrance
and drive to the first stop sign. Turn left and go two blocks. The Student Union is the
large building on the right. The lot in front of the Student Union is a pay lot, but we have
reserved 25 spaces for Friday from 5:30-8:00. Pick up a parking permit when you register
and park in the reserved area (southwest part of the lot).
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The Soapsuds Room and the Playa Room are both on the second floor. The Escondido
Theatre is in the basement across from the lower level of the Texas Tech University Book
Store (Barnes & Noble).
Light food will be provided after the opening session in the Escondido Theatre for those
attending the GPHC business meeting in the Soapsuds Room and also for students at the
Student Recreation Center. Transportation between the Student Union and the Student
Recreation Center and return from the Student Recreation Center to the hotel will be
provided. We will also provide transportation back to the hotel after the business
meeting.
Shuttle service between the Clarion Hotel and the Education Building on the Texas Tech
University campus will begin at 7:30 on Saturday morning. Anyone scheduled for an 8
a.m. session should plan to catch the first ride to campus. For those with transportation,
free parking is available on the east side of the Education Building.
Transportation will also be provided to the Silent Wings Museum and Spirit Ranch on
Saturday evening.
Things to See in Lubbock
For those with an interest in music, the Buddy Holly Center (19th Street at Buddy Holly
Avenue) contains memorabilia from the life of the famed Rock and Roll singer.
The Walk of Fame (statue of Buddy Holly and plaques honoring local singers) is located
just off Avenue Q on 8th Street, within easy walking distance from the Clarion Hotel.
American Wind Power Center, in MacKenzie Park between Broadway and 19th Street,
has an outstanding collection of antique windmills, many of which are on display outside
the center. Inside, the center features additional windmills, along with information on
windmill history and engineering.
Ranching Heritage Center, on the Texas Tech University campus off Fourth Street
features over 20 vintage buildings dating from the early 1800s to the early 1900s. The
center is laid out with paths so visitors may visit the individual buildings. On weekends
docents are stationed in most of the buildings to discuss their history.
Museum of Texas Tech University, also on the TTU campus off Fourth Street, is a
general purpose museum with holdings in natural history, paleontology, history,
archaeology and anthropology, and art. The Diamond M collection has paintings and
sculptures by the famous Western artist, Fredrick Remington.
Lubbock Lake Landmark, located west of University Avenue on the access road west
of the intersection with Loop 289, has a visitors center with artifacts from a 12,000-year
history of human occupation in the South Plains area.
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SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
Friday, April 7, 2006
Registration
2:00-5:00 p.m. (Sheraton Four Points Hotel/Clarion)
5:30-8:30 p.m. (Escondido Theatre Lobby, Student Union Building, Texas Tech
University)
8:30-10:00 p.m. (Student Recreation Center, Texas Tech University)
Activities
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Beginning in Honors, Nick Flynn, convener, Soapsuds Room, Student Union, Texas
Tech University
GPHC Officers meeting, Playa Room, Student Union, Texas Tech University
7:00-8:30 p.m., Opening Plenary Session. Escondido Theatre, Student Union, Texas
Tech University
Jim Schermbeck, Larry vs Lockney
Mr Schermbeck is a documentary film maker who co-filmed “Larry vs Lockney”
with Mark Birnbaum. This film tells the story of Larry Tannahill the parent of a
Lockney high school student who rose up to challenge the school district’s student
drug-testing policy. Mr Schermbeck will show the film (about 50 minutes) and
discuss some issues related to the production of the film.
8:30-9:30 p.m., GPHC Business Meeting, Soapsuds Room, Student Union (sandwich
fixings and other food will be provided)
8:30-12:00, Student activities in the Texas Tech University Student Recreation
Center (available only to registered conference participants—registration will be
available at the Student Recreation Center from 8:30-10:00 p.m. The climbing wall
and other recreational sports activity areas will be open, salsa instruction will be
offered, and sandwich fixings and other food will be available free of charge for
conference participants. Return transportation to the conference hotel and other
campus area and downtown hotels will be available.
Saturday, April 8, 2006
8:00 a.m.-3:10 p.m.
Oral paper presentations and workshops. Education Building, Texas Tech
University
8:00-9:00 a.m.
Session A
20 Minute Presentations,
International, Education 153
History, Education 156
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Science and Mathematics, Education 164
Nursing and Medicine, Education 165
Humanities, Education 166
50-Minute Sessions
An Exploration into the History and Race Relations of Vicksburg, Mississippi,
Education 152
Leadership Debate: Hitler vs Churchill, Education 162
9:10-10:10 a.m.
Session B
20 Minute Presentations
Humanities, Education 153
History, Education 156
Education, Education 164
Nursing and Medicine, Education 165
About Honors, Education 166
50-Minute Sessions
Documenting a Disaster – Katrina Helping Hands, Education 152
Intelligent Design in Evolution: Leap of Faith or Science? (Debate), Education 162
10:20-11:20 a.m.
Session C
20 Minute Presentations
Popular Culture, Education 153
History, Education 156
Education, Education 164
Nursing and Medicine, Education 165
About Honors, Education 166
50-Minute Sessions
Will Universities Become Obsolete?, Education 152
National Honor Society for Honors, Education 162
11:30a.m.-12:10 p.m.
Session D
20 Minute Presentations
Language, Education 153
Art, Education 156
Education, Education 164
Music, Education 165
About Honors, Education 166
11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
50 Minute Session
Nick Flynn, Angelo State University
Development of a Good First Semester Seminar or Introduction to Honors Course,
Education 152.
12:00-1:00 p.m.
Lunch (meal tickets provided for Stangel Hall cafeteria)
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1:00-2:00 p.m.
Session E
20 Minute Presentations
Popular Culture, Education 153
History, Education 156
Current Events, Education 164
Film, Education 165
Religion and Philosophy, Education 166
50-Minute Sessions
What’s So Roaring about the Roaring ‘20s?, Education 152
Creating Safe Space for GLBT Students, Education 162
2:10-3:10 p.m.
Session F
20 Minute Presentations
Popular Culture, Education 153
Current Events, Education 164
Film, Education 165
Religion and Philosophy, Education 166
50-Minute Sessions
Developing the Leader in You, Education 152
Possibilities Take Flight: Students’ Role in GPHC,
Education 156
Organizing a North Texas Honors Council, Education 162
Poster Papers
3:00-5:00 p.m.
Crosslyn Room, Texas Tech University Library
3:20-4:20
Texas Honors Directors Meeting, Student Union, Toreador Room (Second Floor)
5:30-7:00
Silent Wings Museum Visit (Off I-27 ¼ mile north of Farm Road 2641—take Regis
Street Exit (8) and proceed north past the stop sign on I-27 access road. Look for
sings to FAA and General Aviation. The museum is in the old airport terminal
building, easily identified by the old control tower structure)
Transportation provided for those without a vehicle.
7:00-9:00 p.m.
GPHC Annual Banquet
Spirit Ranch (Farm Road 2641, ½ mile west of Silent Wings Museum)
Transportation provided for those without a vehicle.
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OPENING SESSIONS AND EVENTS
Friday, April 7, 2006
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Student Union Playa Room,
Jay Mandt, Wichita State University
GPHC Officers meeting
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Student Union Soapsuds Room,
Nick Flynn (convener), Angelo State University, Guy Litton, Texas
Woman’s University, Chris Wellerton, Abilene Christian University, John
Britt, Lee College, David Lawless, Tulsa Community College, Gary Bell,
Texas Tech University
Panel, Beginning in Honors
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Student Union, Escondido Theatre
Opening Plenary Session. Escondido Theatre, Student Union, Texas Tech
University
Jim Schermbeck, Larry vs Lockney
Mr Schermbeck is a documentary film maker who co-filmed “Larry vs
Lockney” with Mark Birnbaum. This film tells the story of Larry Tannahill
the parent of a Lockney high school student who rose up to challenge the
school district’s student drug-testing policy. Mr Schermbeck will show the
film (about 50 minutes) and discuss some issues related to the production of
the film.
8:30-9:30 p.m.
Student Union, Soapsuds Room
GPHC Business Meeting
8:30 p.m.-12:00 a.m.
Student Recreation Center
Recreational activities in the Texas Tech University Student Recreation
Center (available only to registered conference participants—registration
will be available at the Student Recreation Center from 8:30-10:00 p.m.
The climbing wall and other recreational sports activity areas will be open,
salsa dance instruction will be offered, and sandwich fixings and other
food will be available free of charge for conference participants. Return
transportation to the conference hotel and other campus area and
downtown hotels will be available
Saturday, April 8, 20006
INDIVIDUAL AND GROUP ORAL PRESENTATIONS
8:00-9:00 a.m. Education Building, Texas Tech University
Session A-01
International
Education 153
8:00-8:20
Meredith Ghrist, John Brown University
Democracy and Culture Wed
8:20-8:40
Alexis Crawford, San Jacinto College Central
The Demise of a Nation: The Effects of War, Famine, and Disease on
Africa's Economy
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8:40-9:00
Session A -02
Theresa Zekich and Nobel Macaden, Oral Roberts University
Hamas: Its Future and Why it Poses Such a Grave Threat
History
Education 156
8:00-8:20
Owen Carr, John Brown University
History: A Guide to Humanity?
8:20-8:40
Larissa Jordan, John Brown University
Reconstructing Gender Roles in the Middle Ages:
Hildegard of Bingen on Human Sexuality
8:40-9:00
Jay Middleton, Johnson County Community College
Psychological Factors That Influence Both AntiHomosexual Social Policies & Movements
Session A-03
Science and Mathematics
Education 164
8:00-8:20
Brian Armstrong, Montgomery College
It Took a Genius
8:20-8:40
Kirsten Jones, Brazosport College
The Other History of Calculus
8:40-9:00
Dale Horine, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
Controversy: A Beneficial Aspect of Discovery
Session A-04,
Nursing and Medicine
Education 165
8:00-8:20
Angela Schear, Oral Roberts University
Civil War Nursing: A Comparison between Louisa May Alcott’s Work &
Abigail Hopper Gibbons’ Civil War Diary
8:20-8:40
Cynthia Faires, John Brown University
Parkinson’s Disease: Looking at Causes and Genetic Research to Evaluate
the Usefulness of Cell-Based Therapy
8:40-9:00
Elizabeth Stockton, Texas Woman’s University
Huntington’s Disease: A Hereditary Mystery
Session A-05,
Humanities
Education 166
8:00-8:20
Melanie Stewart, Lee College
Contradictions in the American Dream in Catherine Marshall’s Novel
“Christy”
8:20-8:40
Oscar Villanueva, Lamar University
"The Birthmark": Example of Flawed Reason
8:40-9:00
David Carruth, John Brown University
“The Urgent and Quiring Heart”: Judging Judgment in William Faulkner's
“Barn Burning”
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Session A-06
8:00-8:50
Session A-07
8:00-8:50
50-Minute Session
Education 152
Gregory Gantz and Heather Harrison, Emporia State University
An Exploration into the History and Race Relations of Vicksburg,
Mississippi
50-Minute Session
Education 162
Danielle Famble, Michelle Hajek, Lindsey Odum, Diana Black, McMurry
University
Leadership Debate: Hitler vs. Churchill
9:10-10:10 a.m., Education Building, Texas Tech University
Session B-01
About Honors
Education 153
9:10-9:30
Tawana Prevost, Midwestern State University
Diversity in the Honors Program
9:30-9:50
Kayla Sanderson, Katie Lindsey and Cynthia Michaud, Abilene Christian
University
Service Learning for Honors Credit
9:50-10:10
Jackie Seaman and Christian Bahrim, Lamar University
A Star is Born
Session B-02
History
Education 156
9:10-9:30
Olaf Standley, Tulsa Community College
Henry David Thoreau: The Man Behind the Literature
9:30-9:50
Jami Harris, Oral Roberts University
Southern Women: Voices from Dixie
9:50-10:10
Anthony Aucion , Lee College
Flirting with Happiness, a Look at 21 Grams
Session B-03
Education
Education 164
9:10-9:30
Elizabeth Hanley, Jennifer Lowe, and Jessica Stevens, Texas Woman’s
University
The Decline and Fall of the Fine Arts in College
9:30-9:50
Jermane Wilson, Tulsa Community College
Benefits of Ethical Education
9:50-10:20
Laura Meier, North Harris County College
Service Learning: Nursing III Math Tutoring
Session B-04
9:10-9:30
Nursing and Medicine
Open
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Education 165
9:30-9:50
9:50-10:10
Session B-05
Shatrina Wolf, North Harris College
Community Education Needs for Hepatitis B
Deneish Brooks, North Harris College
The Role of the Registered Nurse in the Management of the Care of Women
Humanities
Education 166
9:10-9:30
Lillian Yates, Texas Woman’s University
The Role of Plato in Socrates’ Symposium
9:30-9:50
Randy Goss, Lee College
Society's Prostitute
9:50-10:10
Jeremy Goodman, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
"We Were Both Fast Asleep”: Exploring Postmodernism in Masteroff,
Kander, and Ebb’s Cabaret
Session B-06
9:10-10:00
Session B-07
9:10-10:00
50-Minute Session
Education 152
Heather Harrison and Rachel Dickens, Emporia State University
Documenting a Disaster – Katrina Helping Hands
50-Minute Session
Education 162
Samantha Cahue and Dale Horine, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
Intelligent Design in Evolution: Leap of Faith or Science?
10:20-11:20 a.m., Education Building, Texas Tech University
Session C-01
Popular Culture
Education 153
10:20-10:40
Amanda Dillard, Lee College
Baytown's Brunson Theater and the End of an Era
10:40-11:00
Robby Davis, John Brown University
Theology, the Mind, and Pop Culture
11:00-11:20
Bethany Scroggins, Abilene Christian University
Hypertext: An Introduction to the Non-Genre
Session C-02
History
Education 156
10:20-10:40
Regina McElwain, Lee College
The Strange Disappearance of Sheriff John Frost
10:40-11:00
Theresa Lillegard, Tulsa Community College
Defining Moment in American History: The Account, Causes and Cover Up of the Tulsa Race Riot
11:00-11:20
Jennifer Johnson, Tulsa Community College
Laboring in the Leisure Industries of Early 20th Century America
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Session C-03
Education
Education 164
10:20-10:40
Matasha Clary, University of Texas at Arlington
Teaching English as a Second Language using Multicultural Children's
Picture Books
10:40-11:00
Abigail Evans and Kaela Latimer , Abilene Christian University
Action Research in Education
11:00-11:20
Lisa Trussell and Christa Gomez, Oral Roberts University
Does Intelligent Design Belong in the Classroom?
Session C-04
Nursing and Medicine
Education 165
10:20-10:40
Andra Delgado, Becky Montemayor, Dorlean Holmes, Lee College
What Has Love Got To Do With It? Assessing Domestic Violence in a
Clinical Setting
10:40-11:00
Sheila Sloss, Johnson County Community College
Living with Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate: From Birth to Early Adulthood
11:00-11:20
Travis Cruse, North Harris College
Field vs. Hospital Intubation
Session C-05
About Honors
Education 166
10:20-10:40
Jessica Dunn, Midwestern State University
Gain Wings with Honors Housing
10:40-11:00
Erin Tade, Miriam Dark, and Stephanie Kelsey, Lamar University
Global Volunteerism: Lesser Known Opportunities With Great Rewards
11:00-11:20
Carlyne Carrette, Angele Sedra, and Royette Henderson, Midwestern State
University
The Caribbean Student’s Honors Experience
Session C-06
10:20-11:10
Session C-07
10:20-11:10
50-Minute Session
Blake Godkin, Texas A&M University
Will Universities Become Obsolete?
50-Minute Session
11:30-11:50
Education 162,
Casie Fruin, Texas Tech University
National HON
11:30 a.m.-12:10 p.m.
Session D-01
Education 152
Education Building, Texas Tech University
Language
Education 153
Kendra Harrington and Beth Ann Crocker, Lubbock Christian University
Watch Your Language!
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11:50-12:10
Session D-02
Amber Dennison, John Brown University
The Good and the Bad of a Powerful Gift: Language
Art
Education 156
11:30-11:50
Mary Domer, Montgomery College
Color and Form Make all the Difference
11:50-12:10
Faith Harrison, Montgomery College
A Sand Mandala For New Orleans
Session D-03
Education
Education 164
11:30-11:50
Henry Fennell, John Brown University
An Exploration: The Social Dynamics of the Elementary School
11:50-12:10
James Smith, John Brown University
Elementary Drama
Session D-04
Music
Education 165
11:30-11:50
Spencer Brown, Tulsa Community College
Composers of Music: What Keeps the Light on at the End of the Tunnel?
11:50-12:10
Sarah Lavendar, Lubbock Christian University
A Study of Music: The Sonata-Allegro Form
Session D-05
About Honors
Education 166
11:30-11:50
Jay Mandt, Wichita State University
Honors: The New Yorker View
11:50-12:10
Lisa Coleman and Tim Boatmun, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
From Caretaker to Consultant--Partnering with Parents of Honors
Students
Session D-06
11:30-12:20
11;30-1:00,
50-Minute Session
Education 152
Nick Flynn, Angelo State University
Development of a Good First Semester Seminar or Introduction to Honors
Course
Lunch, Stangel Hall (walk north through the English Building
arch, cross the parking lot and street to the residence hall)
1:00-2:00, Education Building, Texas Tech University
Session E-01
1:00-1:20
Popular Culture
Education 153
Jacqueline Smith, Texas Woman’s University
Friday the 13th: Fact or Fiction?
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1:20-1:40
Brooke Bailey, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
The New Left in the Sixties: “If you don’t like the news, make some of your
own.”
1:40-2:00
Cydni Vandiver, Texas Woman’s University
The Maturation of Editorial Cartoons through the Inter-War Years and
World War II
Session E-02
History
Education 156
1:00-1:20
Andre Loreman, San Jacinto College South
MD Anderson and the Creation of the Texas Medical Center
1:20-1:40
Anastasia Szpet, Texas Woman’s University
Allied Prisoners of War Under the Rising Sun
1:40-2:00
Zane Hight, University of Arkansas-Forth Smith
World War II Germany: Evil Personified
Session E-03
Current Events
Education 164
1:00-1:20
Alma Martínez, San Jacinto College
Swimming Pool Drownings and Young Children: Causes and Preventive
Measures
1:20-1:40
Amanda Ohm, Montgomery College
The Role of Government in Natural Disasters
1:40-2:00
Brandon Baker, Taylor Lassiter, Isaac Garcia, Lubbock Christian
University
It’s My Right
Session E-04
Film
Education 165
1:00-1:20
Laura Witzel, Lee College
Plato and the Kingdom of Heaven
1:20-1:40
Christyn Nakunz, Lee College
Women’s Sexuality: Something to Be Kept Hidden or Exposed?
1:40-2:00
Stephanie Clausen, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
The Art of Choice: Being “It” in Hitchcock's Rope
Session E-05
Religion and Philosophy
Education 166
1:00-1:20
James Blalock, McMurry University
An Attempt to Resolve the Euthyphro Problem
1:20-1:40
Scott Key, John Brown University
Construction as Redemption
1:40-2:00
Matt Mellema, John Brown University
English and the Kingdom
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Session E-06
1:00-1:50
Session E-07
1:00-1:50
50-Minute Session
Education 152
Lindsey Steiger, Denae Domerese and Vincent Gerardo, University of
Arkansas-–Fort Smith
What’s so Roaring about the Roaring ‘20s?
50-Minute Session
Education 162
Joel R. Walker, Texas Tech University
Creating Safe Space for GLBT Students, Education 162
2:10-3:10, Education Building, Texas Tech University
Session F-01
Popular Culture
Education 153
2:10-2:30
Stephen Cortiaus, San Jacinto College South
The Rise, Fall, and Renaissance of Stevie Ray Vaughan
2:30-2:50
Crista Renouard, San Jacinto College South
A Living Testament of the College Years of Kent Norman
2:50-3:10
Matt Teel, San Jacinto College South
Bias in the Media: How Does it Affect You?
Session F-02
Current Events
Education 164
2:10-2:30
Marcus Raven, University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurship Center
2:30-2:50
Daniel Green, University of Missouri—Kansas City
Command and Cooperation: Lessons from Vietnam, and their Application
in Operation Desert Storm
2:50-3:10
Taylor Lassiter, Lubbock Christian University
How to Get an Internship in Washington, DC
Session F-03
Film
Education 165
2:10-2:30
Damian Gonzalez, Montgomery College
Films of the 1960s: Race and Gender
2:30-2:50
Victoria Anderson, Lee College
The Enforcement of "No Sissy Stuff" in the Film "Full Metal Jacket"
2:50-3:10
James Keys, Lee College
Self Destruction and the American Dream; Triumph and Tragedy in the
Film Glory
Session F-04
2:10-2:30
Religion and Philosophy
Evan Graber, John Brown University
Redeeming Redemption
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Education 165
2:30-2:50
Christina Graves, Oklahoma City University
The Bad Rap about Jezebel
2:50-3:10
Session F-05
Daniel Ostendorff, John Brown University
Hick’s Plurality of Religions and its Implications for Religious Systems
50-Minute Session
2:10-3:00
Session F-06
Education 152
Edith Buller-Breer, Brett Bussart, Kyrstie Craig, Kristin Mehler, Yetunde
Olukanni, Erika Sandoval, Cari Troyer, Wichita State University
Developing the Leader in You
50-Minute Session
2:10-3:00
Session F-07
Education 156
Katie Mills and Elizabeth Yelverton, Texas Women’s University
Possibilities Take Flight: Students’ Role in GPHC
50-Minute Session
2:10-3:00
Education 162
Alfred Litton, Texas Woman’s University
Organizing a North Texas Honors Council, Education 162
SATURDAY AFTERNOON/EVENING EVENTS
3:00-5:00
Poster Presentations Crosslyn Room, Texas Tech University Library
Vans to Clarion Hotel will leave from the front (north side) of the
Student Union at 4:45 p.m. and at 15-minute intervals until 5:30 p.m.
3:20-4:20
Gary Bell, Convener
Texas Honors Directors Meeting, Student Union,
Toreador Room (Second Floor)
5:30-7:00
Silent Wings Museum (for those needing transportation, bus will
leave from the Clarion Hotel at 5:15 p.m.)
7:00-9:00
Annual GPHC banquet
Speaker: Ms. Florene Watson, Women’s Air Service Pilots (WASP)
veteran from World War II will talk about her experiences as a
woman pilot.
Music: Thrift Store Cowboys, Lubbock, Texas
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ABSTRACTS OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS AND POSTERS
The abstracts below are reproduced as submitted. No attempt has been made to correct or edit them.
20-MINUTE ORAL PRESENTATIONS
Brian Armstrong, Montgomery College
It Took a Genius
It Took a Genius details Feynman’s work on the Manhattan Project, the U.S. led effort that developed the
first atomic bomb. Feynman solved many problems before the age of electronic computation. In
Feynman’s life we see that science and philosophy are interconnected endeavors.
Victoria Anderson, Lee College
The Enforcement of "No Sissy Stuff" in the Film "Full Metal Jacket"
In William Pollack’s book Real Boys: Rescuing our Men from Myths of Boyhood, he describes four
general rules of behavior forced upon males in this society. The fourth, titled “no sissy stuff,” requires men
to refrain from behavior seen as feminine or be subjected to shame and ridicule. In Full Metal Jacket, the
“no sissy stuff” injunction is taught and enforced in boot camp by the drill instructor and in Vietnam by
peers through the use of shame, and while it can increase the chances of survival in a war situation, it can
ultimately lead to destruction of the self
Anthony Aucion , Lee College
Flirting with Happiness, a Look at 21 Grams
Faced with consequences, humans direct their blame outward instead of inward. Guillermo Arriga, author
of 21 Grams, stated that accidents happen and a person’s response to an accident reveals that person’s
character. Incidents presented in 21 Grams reveal the fragility of our mortal conditions and the ties that
bind us with others. Paul, Jack, and Christina attempt to fill their lives with happiness, Aristotle’s “highest
good.” With consequences abounding, these characters fail to accept personal responsibility for their own
happiness. Arriga shows that most human beings refuse to accept responsibility for personal choices and
ultimately cannot achieve happiness.
Brooke Bailey, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
The New Left in the Sixties: “If you don’t like the news, make some of your own.”
The decade of the 1960s was a period of revolution, experimentation, and insurrection. Counterculture
groups, such as the New Left, emerged out of rebellion against convention. The ideals of the New Left and
affiliated organizations such as Students for a Democratic Society (SDS) focused on individual freedom,
conciliation, and escape from the domination of leaders. What began as a call for “nonviolent civil
disobedience” on a college campus grew into a national phenomenon of protest. Was the anti-war activities
of the New Left/SDS and other groups a unique occurrence in American history or was it part of a long
tradition of civil disobedience?
Brandon Baker, Taylor Lassiter, Isaac Garcia, Lubbock Christian University
It’s My Right
Our founding fathers created a wonderful place in America, a place where freedom is available to all and
equal treatment reigns. However, are we as a nation stepping away from that which has defined us? Has our
openness to others trapped us into a consciousness where there are no absolutes? We will discuss how
failure to recognize another person’s point of view, even if it is wrong, now condemns me for not allowing
another to be “free” in his own way. We will talk about where freedom has led our country and how it
affects the moral fabric of our country.
James Blalock, McMurry University
An Attempt to Resolve the Euthyphro Problem
In this paper, I address the classic Euthyphro Problem: is x loved by the gods because it has the
independent quality of piety, or is x pious because it is loved by the gods? I do not make an attempt to
solve the Euthyphro Problem relating to Christian theology. I analyze two major interpretations, one by A.
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Kim and the other by Richard Joyce. Along with a comprehensive analysis of both interpretations, I defend
a modified version of the Kim interpretation, supplemented by my own reading of Socratic and Platonic
theology.
Deneish Brooks, North Harris College
The Role of the Registered Nurse in the Management of the Care of Women
. The special focus of this presentation is primary prevention through education for female clients 20
years-old and older, using breast cancer awareness and the need for women to start breast self- examination
at an early age. I researched the literature and created several teaching modalities to increase the awareness
of breast cancer and how to do breast self-examination To gather my information I held educational
sessions at a women’s shelter and a pregnancy center where I was able to gather my data and teach client of
various ethnic groups between the ages of 20-60 yrs of age.
Spencer Brown, Tulsa Community College
Composers of Music: What Keeps the Light on at the End of the Tunnel?
To truly appreciate music, it is necessary to have a firm understanding of imagination, conceptualization,
and psychology as they relate to music. This presentation will delve into the psychological depths of
music: its composers, its compositions, and its audience. This presenter will hopefully give his audience a
chance to appreciate the music to which they listen, to appreciate the music to which they do not listen, and
a determined or confident grasp on the power of their imaginations.
Carlyne Carrette, Angele Sedra and Royette Henderson, Midwestern State University
The Caribbean Student’s Honors Experience
The presenters are Caribbean Students. In the Caribbean, education is centered primarily on academic
achievement. Students are guided along a very narrow scope of study from as early as the third year in
secondary school. Extracurricular activities are optional and are considered ‘second class’ to traditional
studies. In the Honors Program, we Caribbean students are exposed to a more well-rounded approach to
education. We realize that we have the opportunity to acquire a truly tertiary level of education, through
the requirements specified by the Honors Program
Owen Carr, John Brown University
History: A Guide to Humanity?
Jack Plumb in Crisis in the Humanities (1964) complained that the profession of history had “lost all faith
in itself as a guide to the actions of men.” But should history be such a guide? In contemplation of this
question, this essay considers and criticizes both Plumb and Karl Marx’s ideas regarding historical progress
and history’s ability to act as a moral guide to humankind, concluding that though the profession of history
cannot guide humans with theories of progress or morality, it can guide them with knowledge and
understanding of themselves and of their contemporary world. In order to display this conclusion, this
essay discusses how the Blitz and Evacuation in Britain during the Second World War can guide
contemporary Americans in understanding and dealing with hurricane Katrina’s recent devastation of New
Orleans and the ensuing evacuation therefrom.
David Carruth, John Brown University
“The Urgent and Quiring Heart”: Judging Judgment in William Faulkner's “Barn Burning”
This essay reconsiders ethical criticism by analyzing Faulkner’s short story “Barn Burning” from the
perspective of moral judgment and development. After briefly considering a few contemporary ethical
critics, it focuses on the opposing moral stances of Abner Snipes and Major De Spain, paying close
attention to the significance of imagery and symbols. It then analyzes the struggle of Abner’s son, Sarty, to
judge between these perspectives and synthesize them into his own. Finally, the essay examines how the
story draws the reader into a similar process of judgment.
Matasha Clary, University of Texas at Arlington
Teaching English as a Second Language using Multicultural Children's Picture Books
Societal equitability can be promoted by using multicultural children’s picture books to teach English as a
second language (ESL). Some traditional teaching strategies used with native English speakers are applied
to ESL instruction using multicultural picture books as a tool to broaden the English language learner’s
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perspective about other cultures as well as his/her own. Methods include: reenactment of the text, picture
walking, reading aloud, directed reading activity, directed reading thinking activity, and free reading. In
considering which texts are appropriate to use for these strategies, criteria are presented for judging
multicultural picture books.
Stephanie Clausen, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
The Art of Choice: Being “It” in Hitchcock's Rope
The 1924 murder of a fourteen-year-old boy by Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb was the inspiration for a
play that later became Alfred Hitchcock’s 1948 psychological thriller Rope. While never explicitly
acknowledged in dialogue, the implied homoerotic relationship between the murderers is crucial to an
understanding of the film’s message about the causes of socially deviant behavior. By examining the role
of personal choice in embracing or rejecting societal norms, this paper attempts to offer an explanation for
the efforts of both Rope’s creators and the audience of the Leopold-Loeb case to establish a correlation
between sexual and criminal pathology.
Lisa Coleman and Tim Boatmun, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
From Caretaker to Consultant--Partnering with Parents of Honors Students
For most Honors participants, parents have played a significant role in their education. The transition to
higher education can often be difficult due to the changing expectations of the institution and the personal
development of their student. At Southeastern Oklahoma State University the Honors Program takes an
active role in assisting parents in the transition from care-taker to consultant. This presentation will explore
common issues when working with “highly involved” parents, share the SOSU Honors Program “Guide for
Parents” brochure and the agenda for parent orientation, and identify ways to engage parents as effective
recruiters for future program participants.
Stepheia, San Jacinto College South
The Rise, Fall, and Renaissance of Stevie Ray Vaughan
This paper covers Stevie Ray Vaughan's rise as a legend in the Texas blues music industry. In the early
1980s, Stevie Ray Vaughan rose to become one of the greatest blues guitarists in the industry with the
release of "Texas Flood," before falling to a very low spot in his life. After almost losing his life to drug
and alcohol abuse, Stevie once again rose to the top of the industry with the release of "In Step."
Alexis Crawford, San Jacinto College Central
The Demise of a Nation: The Effects of War, Famine, and Disease on Africa's Economy
For over a decade, war in the African Congo has taken the lives of over three million people. Everyday,
men, women, and children are dying by an unimaginable rate from diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the
latter part of 2005, Africa was faced with extensive food shortages due to the yearly drought that was
expected to take the lives of over 150,000 children. How are these factors affecting Africa's economy? How
are they affecting the world? This presentation will attempt to answer those questions.
Travis Cruse, North Harris College
Field vs. Hospital Intubation
In recent years studies have suggested that patients intubated in the field had generally higher rates of
mortality and morbidity than patients intubated in the hospital. An examination of local ET success rates
reveals that area medics have a high proficiency at this skill and suggests that the poor outcomes may
reflect the fact that prehospital intubation is reserved for patients currently in cardiac arrest or in immanent
respiratory crisis. Area intubation success rates, the benefits and liabilities of alternative airway devices and
what it means for patients will be discussed in this presentation.
Robby Davis, John Brown University
Theology, the Mind, and Pop Culture
This paper seeks to answer the question of what role popular art should play in the life of a Christian. It
notes that Christians are often only comfortable with popular art if it explicitly states Christian themes. I
attempt to show that a Christian can find value and meaning in many forms of popular art. In order to do
this, one must take seriously the challenge of Jesus to be “in the world, but not of it.” By the use of the
mind, a Christian can think theologically as they approach popular art. This allows one to find value and
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meaning in the popular arts. In the paper, several other examples of the relationship between Christianity
and the popular arts are discussed. This paper has taken on great personal significance for me as well.
Andra Delgado, Becky Montemayor and Dorlean Holmes, Lee College
What Has Love Got To Do With It? Assessing Domestic Violence in a Clinical Setting
This project addresses the increasing problem of domestic violence in the United States and the broad
spectrum of the population involved. Domestic violence not only affects those directly involved but also
the children, families and friends of both the abused and the abuser. By examining the predisposing factors
associated with those involved in domestic violence as well as the after effects of violence an advanced
insight to the problem is gained. Through the exploration of the psychological factors and behaviors
influencing domestic violence more appropriate nursing care and interventions for those involved can be
achieved. This project attempts to better define the social epidemic of domestic violence and provide
appropriate nursing plans of care in hopes of better serving the patients affected.
Amber Dennison, John Brown University
The Good and the Bad of a Powerful Gift: Language
The objective of this paper is to discuss the role of language in the world today. Communication requires
acquisition, comprehension, and production of language, therefore making it unique to humans as part of
their creative aspect. Despite both the positive potential and the power of language, language acquisition,
comprehension, and production are not as they would be in a perfect world. This paper explores a variety
of challenges to communication and where these first began. These challenges are both a blessing and a
curse. Language is good despite the problems in acquisition, comprehension, and production.
Amanda Dillard, Lee College
Baytown's Brunson Theater and the End of an Era
During the 1980’s an era ended with the closing of the last movie palaces and small town theater’s in the
United States. These small town theaters were once the focal point of a community’s social life. The
evolution from palaces to multi-screened giants signified a change in society which destroyed the very
symbol of its innocence. The history of the Brunson Theater in Baytown, Texas, an industrial community
located some thirty miles east of Houston reflects the evolution and eventual demise of the small town
movie places and their once important role in the life of a community.
Mary Domer, Montgomery College
Color and Form Make all the Difference
A semester long journey in learning why color and form were the dominating design principals in the Pop
Art era, mainly in the works of James Rosenquist, Ellsworth Kelly, and Andy Warhol. Includes description
of how their working methods were applied to my own works of art.
Jessica Dunn, Midwestern State University
Gain Wings with Honors Housing
A resident of Midwestern State University’s Honors House will discuss effects of living in a unique
housing community specifically geared for honors students on development in personal, social, and
academic areas. Because of the unique structure of the House itself and of the environment, residents are in
a situation in which development of a familial atmosphere is facilitated while each individual retains his/her
autonomy. This allows residents to both have a built-in support system and the ability to grow in areas of
individual interest. It creates both more freedom and more responsibility than a typical Housing situation.
Abigail Evans and Kaela Latimer, Abilene Christian University
Action Research in Education
Action research is a new idea in the field of education, one that shapes expert teachers. Action research
begins by looking at current trends and scientific studies in the field of education. That research is then
taken to the classroom and applied in a systematic and intentional but natural way. During the course of
our student teaching, we have had the opportunity of implementing this new technique. While our
individual projects differed in subject, they have the same approach and final goal of improving the
classroom.
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Cynthia Faires, John Brown University
Parkinson’s Disease: Looking at Causes and Genetic Research to Evaluate the Usefulness of CellBased Therapy
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that manifests as a motor disorder. Current research
implicates specific genes (PINK1, LRRK2, PRKN, DJ-1, -Synuclein) in mitochondrial
dysfunction and oxidative stress, both possible causes of PD. Drug therapies in their current state only slow
the progression of the disease. This motivated researchers to look to the use stem cells as modern therapy.
Using pluripotent cell types from bone marrow or embryonic sources reversed motor defects in animal
models and now clinical trials are underway in humans. But scientific shortcomings, technical
complications, and ethical debate slow the search for the cure.
Henry Fennell, John Brown University
An Exploration: The Social Dynamics of the Elementary School
The public elementary school system provides and interesting and exciting place to get an education and to
grow up. Having graduated from a small, private elementary school, I often have wondered just what the
differences were between my experiences and those of my publicly educated friends. How did their
environment effect their social development? What kind of challenges are being faced in today’s
elementary school that must be overcome in order to nurture healthy young adults? In my observation of
Southside Elementary of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, I identified three important areas that conflict with the
goal nurturing future citizens: cultural barriers, bullying/tough guy approach, and physical handicaps.
However, I also discovered within the school system various techniques being implemented that provided
positive and effective solutions to the challenges of today’s elementary school.
Meredith Ghrist, John Brown University
Democracy and Culture Wed
Democracy is one of today’s most important issues. Its spread has been sudden and, at times, controversial.
Coupled with globalization, democracy has become not only western, but worldwide, and has interacted
abrasively with some cultures. This paper discusses the relationship between democracy and culture by
looking at the history of democracy, at problems faced by many democratic nations today, and at the
differences in culture that create this conflict. It presents the simple, yet unpracticed idea that if democracy
would be adapted to culture, perhaps it could be a more effective form of government.
Damian Gonzalez, Montgomery College
Films of the 1960s: Race and Gender
Historically, movies have served as an escape from reality, but the underlying portrayals of the characters
reflect where American society stands on many issues. With a focus on race and gender, the major
movements and several classic movies were examined to see how Hollywood reflected changes in
American society in the 1960s. Protests include the Youth, Women's, and Civil Rights movements. Films
that will be analyzed are “A Raisin in the Sun”, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner”, and “Easy Rider”.
Jeremy Goodman, Southeastern Oklahoma State University
"We Were Both Fast Asleep”: Exploring Postmodernism in Masteroff, Kander, and Ebb’s Cabaret
Opening on Broadway in 1966, Cabaret is arguably the first commercially successful “postmodern”
musical. To explore Cabaret’s postmodern themes, I applied Lyotard’s The Postmodern Condition and
writings by Umberto Eco, Donald Barthelme, and George Englebretsen to the play’s music, plot, and
themes.
A bleak work, Cabaret explores the delicate balance between the private and public spheres of
humanity. I contend that the play exercises a continuation of modernist impulses, stripped of utopian
hopes, optimism, and universal truths. The plot and music are built around irony, satire, politics,
questioning, fracturing, and a deconstruction of the relationship between art/entertainment and audience.
Randy Goss, Lee College
Society's Prostitute
Mary Wollstonecraft’s A Vindication of the Rights of Woman reveals the inevitable prostitution of women
in the Pre-Victorian era due to the illusion of love and the necessity for women to establish socioeconomic
status through marriage. Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey reflects Wollstonecraft’s observations of society
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through mocking women’s romantic illusions that enslaves their being to the command of patriarchy.
Austen validates Wollstonecraft’s observation that it is inevitable that women who desire status or a means
of living comfortably will marry because education, if provided, does not allow women to become
productive members of society, thus creating prostitutes.
Evan Graber, John Brown University
Redeeming Redemption
"Integration" is a general look into how the study of the bible works in the act of redemption. It overviews
the major ways in which biblical study plays a part in that role. The first way being, redemption through a
better and greater understanding of who God is. The second way being, redeeming the way in which we
study and interpret scripture. It brings into question issues of Christian Ministry being an integral part of
the way we view God and understand His Word.
Christina Graves, Oklahoma City University
The Bad Rap about Jezebel
Throughout history, women have been put into boxes. What happens when they step outside the box? For
Jezebel of the Old Testament, the long-term result was her becoming the symbol of the ultimate bad girl.
My paper looks at what I believe to be a tainted portrait of Jezebel presented by Deuteronomic authors in I
Kings and II Kings. Specifically, I will do this through the exegeting of II Kings 9:30-37 by looking at the
context of the story and by looking at the story itself through summarizing it and noting the differences in
English translations.
Daniel Green, University of Missouri—Kansas City
Command and Cooperation: Lessons from Vietnam, and their Application in Operation Desert
Storm
Operation Desert Storm was led by Generals who had served during the disastrous war in Vietnam. Men
like General H. Norman Schwartzkopf and General Colin Powell had seen a war mishandled by both
civilian and military leadership.
Command and Cooperation focuses on the following lessons learned in Desert Storm: the creation of a
timetable for a conflict, managing the morale of troops and of country, and the advantages and
disadvantages of overwhelming force. Also, I will discuss the merits of civilian leadership of the military,
and the importance of both sides doing their job, and only their job.
Elizabeth Hanley, Jennifer Lowe and Jessica Stevens, Texas Woman’s University
The Decline and Fall of Fine Arts in College
In high school, students strive to make themselves desirable to college scouts and admissions personnel.
We know that we need to be well rounded students, which means we engage in a healthy dose of athletics,
fine arts, community service, and academics to ensure our acceptance to the college of our choice.
Unfortunately, when we get to college, we somehow forget the importance of the well rounded individual –
focusing only on classes specific to our major.
Music and art are important to our culture and should not be lost because we are too narrowly focused on
one specific goal to slow down and enjoy the sweet melody of life.
Kendra Harrington and Beth Ann Crocker, Lubbock Christian University
Watch Your Language!
According to the eleventh chapter of Genesis, there was once a common language for all mankind. As the
story goes, the people decided to build a tower up to Heaven, so the Lord confused their speech to prevent
their accomplishment. Today, there are multiple independent languages for every continent, distinct
dialects for every country, state, or province, and within every dialect, separate and occasionally incoherent
accents. How did these forms of speech develop? Where did they originate, and where are they headed?
Jami Harris, Oral Roberts University
Southern Women: Voices from Dixie
While much is known about the lives of the Civil War soldiers, the stories of their wives and daughters
have been largely ignored. Southern women were equally affected by the war and experienced the
devastation of losing their homes, loved ones, and means of support. They were also involved in the
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political scene, many fighting against slavery and serving as nurses. I have chosen to focus on three
southern women from different stations in life: Mary Boykin Chesnut (a general's wife), Sarah Morgan
(sister of Confederate and Union soldiers), and Harriet Jacobs (a runaway slave).
Faith Harrison, Montgomery College
A Sand Mandala For New Orleans
My presentation will include a Powerpoint slide show. The intro will a brief description of the history of
the mandala. I will talk about the mandala in nature, in our bodies, in various cultures, and psychology.
Then I will present some photos of New Orleans before and after Hurricane Katrina. I will also talk about
the healing mandala we created on campus and what the participants had to say about the project.
Zane Hight, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
World War II Germany: Evil Personified
The German experience in World War II was one of confusion, evil, and shame. Through the persecution
of Jews and other minorities and their thirst for land they showed the world a whole new side of violent
nationalism and pure hatred. Why did this evil occur and what was the role of the ordinary German citizen
in propagating the death of millions of innocent people?
Dale Horine, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
Controversy: a Beneficial Aspect of Discovery
It is quite commonly believed that controversy brings nothing but negative effects. In order to show that
this is not always the case, we will explore the controversy of Newton and Leibniz over who invented
calculus and Berkley’s interjection. In doing so, we will find that it was through these controversies that
calculus was brought to a better understanding.
Jennifer Johnson, Tulsa Community College
Laboring in the Leisure Industries of Early 20th Century America
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, alcohol, tobacco, and entertainment industries abounded in
American popular culture. While America struggled through the growing pains of the Industrial Age,
various workers toiled in jobs providing the vices and entertainment which the working classes used to
endure the hardships of everyday life. This presentation will take a closer look at workers behind the
scenes; in particular, boys working in cigar factories, men tending bar in saloons, and women performing in
vaudeville. Using historical photographs and original research, the similarities and differences in working
conditions, salaries and standards of living will be examined.
Kirsten Jones, Brazosport College
The Other History of Calculus
That Newton and Leibniz discovered calculus in the 17th century is common knowledge—but were they
the first or only ones to do so? This project explores proto-calculus in the eastern hemisphere through the
work of Bhaskaracarya, an Indian mathematician of the 12th century, and that of Kowa Seki, a Japanese
mathematician of the 17th century.
Larissa Jordan, John Brown University
Reconstructing Gender Roles in the Middle Ages: Hildegard of Bingen on Human Sexuality
Though born into a world where women had few opportunities for influence, Hildegard of Bingen had an
astonishing impact in all of society’s spheres. From Popes and Emperors to monks and nuns, and even
with ordinary men and women, Hildegard’s correspondence and other writings demonstrate that she was a
major force in 12th century Europe. In an era of significant gender inequality, Hildegard’s works
challenged current theological and cultural beliefs by urging the equality of women based on the belief that
God viewed males and females equally and society should as well.
Scott Key, John Brown University
Construction as Redemption
In a Christian world, of foreign missionaries, some are called to stay at home. Many Christians are actually
called to secular jobs. That is not to say though that their jobs are any less important to God. Since the Fall
of Man, redemption is needed in every aspect of life and in a way every job is an attempt to reverse the
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effects of Adam’s notorious lapse in judgment. Construction is especially vital and literally provides a
protection for all other avenues of Redemption. Construction Management provides both useful and God
honoring products that boldly stands against these consequences
James Keys, Lee College
Self Destruction and the American Dream; Triumph and Tragedy in the Film Glory
This paper is an analysis of the film Glory as an illustration of the dehumanization of war. Beginning with
the historical context of the Civil War the paper examines how the film can be seen as illustrative of certain
universal truths. It is based on the idea that while a film is a dramatic work - so is a historical novel and
can be used to teach philosophical and humanistic truth if examined in the proper context.
Taylor Lassiter, Lubbock Christian University
How to Get an Internship in Washington, DC
Last semester, I interned at the Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies in Washington, DC. My
internship was through The Washington Center for Internships and enabled me to gain academic credit
through my home institution. My internship duties included organizing executive seminars for military and
political leaders from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. I also assisted professors in
researching counter-terrorism, nuclear non-proliferation, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and other information
regarding national security. This presentation explains my internship experience, and gives helpful insight
to students on how to get an internship in our nation’s capitol.
Sarah Lavendar, Lubbock Christian University
A Study of Music: The Sonata-Allegro Form
This presentation will expound upon the history and development of the Sonata-Allegro Form in piano and
orchestral music. The historical look will begin in the Baroque Era with Binary Dance Form and extend
down through the Classical and Romantic Eras. The presentation will also show how the Sonata-Allegro
Form eventually developed into the basis for the Symphony Form – most notably, the typical first
movement of a symphony. Significant composers incorporated in this study include Johann Sebastian Bach,
Domenico Scarlatti, and Ludwig van Beethoven. A brief biographical examination will be given of each
composer and a list of his works included in this study.
Theresa Lillegard, Tulsa Community College
Defining Moment in American History: The Account, Causes and Cover -Up of the Tulsa Race Riot
On May 31, 1921, a white woman in Tulsa, OK, accused a black man of assaulting her on an elevator. The
man was arrested and this lit a spark which exploded into an all-out race war that raged for more than 10
hours. Because the Tulsa Race Riot was the most destructive race riot in America's history and it was
covered up for many years, it is essential for people to gain knowledge of it. Fundamentally, this event in
our history illustrates the importance of race relations and demonstrates the psychological and economic
outcomes of hatred against a particular group.
Andre Loreman, San Jacinto College South
MD Anderson and the Creation of the Texas Medical Center
The paper will present a brief history of MD Anderson's ubringing and accumulation of wealth, as well as
the creation of the MD Anderson Foundation. From this beginning the paper will further explore the birth
of the Texas Medical Center and discuss key individuals influential in the creation of the largest medical
complex in the world.
Jay Mandt Wichita State University
Honors: The NEW YORKER View
Cartoons from the New Yorker magazine are used to illustrate some of the more humorous aspects of
involvement with an Honors Program.
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Alma Martinez, San Jacinto College Central
Swimming Pool Drownings and Young Children: Causes and Preventive Measures
Every year hundreds of young children drown in private swimming pools. This presentation will explore
the causes of childhood drownings and will outline preventive measures owners can take. Many new
products have been introduced on the market to alleviate these tragedies.
Regina McElwain, Lee College
The Strange Disappearance of Sheriff John Frost
On November 15, 1900, shortly after the devastating Galveston storm of 1900, a Galveston paper reported
the disappearance of Chambers County sheriff John Frost, last seen delivering sequestration papers to
trespassers on Colonel Moody’s hunting preserve at Lake Surprise near Trinity Bay. The sheriff’s horse
was found wandering on the prairie, the reigns cut and blood covering the saddle; however, no body was
found.. While three men were eventually indicted for murder, no one was convicted. This paper is an indepth study of the strange disappearance of a popular sheriff and its impact on an already nervous
community
Laura Meier, North Harris College
Service Learning: Nursing III Math Tutoring
Service learning has been incorporated into various areas of curricula. Although the diverse methodology
of learning makes it difficult to provide a simple definition, many agree on common qualities. Service
learning is a teaching method that allows students to apply curriculum and gain further insight through
service to others. After identifying a need amongst fellow nursing students, a service was provided to help
improve dosage calculation skills. Areas to be expanded upon are the purpose of this service, the
interventions, an evaluation and the benefits obtained.
Matt Mellema, John Brown University
English and the Kingdom
A pressing issue for many Christian scholars is how their chosen field of study relates to their relationship
with God. In other words, does there have to be a distinction between the secular and the sacred? This
paper addresses the issue of how the field of English can help to advance the Kingdom of God. The paper
starts out by addressing what the Kingdom of God actually means, and describes some effects of the fall. It
then addresses specific ways that English furthers the Kingdom of God--namely through enhancing
communication abilities, and expressing profound thoughts in beautiful ways.
Jay Middleton, Johnson County Community College
Psychological Factors That Influence Both Anti-Homosexual Social Policies & Movements
Two anti-gay movements and the historic context that they took place in are analyzed. The first period
examined is the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, with a focus on the Catholic Church. The second era
explored is the 1950's during which the current religious fundamentalism movement began. The existing
research suggests that three psychological theories are involved: terror management, social dominance
orientation and in-group/out-group. These three theories explain the rise of anti-homosexual movements
and social policies in both eras. Influences on these psychological theories are social, environmental and
philosophical threats.
Amanda Ohm, Montgomery College
The Role of Government in Natural Disasters
This presentation discusses the roles of federal, state, and local government before, during, and after a
hurricane. The duties of each level of government are outlined to gain insight into who held the power to
influence the outcome of the Katrina tragedy. The governmental response to Katrina is compared with
other recent hurricanes and possible modifications to the current system are analyzed.
Daniel Ostendorff
John Brown University
“Hick’s Plurality of Religions and its Implications for Religious Systems”
John Hick, philosopher of religion and theology, has been one of the most influential philosophers in this
past century. This paper responds to Hick’s hypothesis of religious plurality as presented in his An
Interpretation of Religion (1989). The paper first presents Hick’s motivation and philosophy for religious
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plurality. This is then followed by a critique of three areas of weakness in Hick’s construct: (1) his
reductionistic tendencies in dealing with multiple religions, (2) his inability to create a plausible philosophy
with which any of the major religions could agree, and, lastly, (3) an examination of his theodicy in relation
to his own professed faith, that of Christianity.
Tawana Prevost, Midwestern State University
Diversity in the Honors Program
The MSU Honors Program wants to revamp its international recruitment techniques to increase the number
of international students in the program, thus increasing program awareness, and creating a more culturally
diverse atmosphere so students are exposed to thoughts, customs and practices from all over the world. A
new marketing/promotions plan based on student research has been devised and will be presented.
Marcus Raven, University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurship Center
Capitalism is a cornerstone of American ideology. However, the U.S. Census reports that 31 million, nearly
1 in 8 Americans currently live at or below the poverty line. Many experts agree that the criteria are too low
and have created a “working poor” class. Residents of inner cities are disproportionately affected and
disenfranchised. The mission of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur Center will be to
develop community leaders and create stronger ties among diverse entrepreneurs and the other elements of
the business community. This will be accomplished by fostering financial intelligence, wealth generation,
job creation, and community improvement.
Christa Renouard, San Jacinto College South
A Living Testament of the College Years of Kent Norman
When people think of college years, they tend to think of parties, protests, and the coming of age. Were it
not for the 60s, people probably would not have the notions that they do about the nature and experience of
college students today. Preserved through the avenue of oral history, my presentation is about the college
experience of the end of an era as seen through the eyes of one relatively ordinary college student looking
back at his experience on campus at Kent State University in the spring of 1970.
Kayla Sanderson, Katie Lindsey and Cynthia Michaud, Abilene Christian University
Service Learning for Honors Credit
Flexible hours, community involvement, real-life skills, honors credit without a harder class load - these are
some of the advantages of service learning that excite Honors students at ACU. Service learning also
provides numerous benefits to the University, the Honors Program, and the surrounding community. After
giving examples of some of the general advantages of service learning, we will share our personal
experiences with service learning and discuss what participants have found most beneficial and what they
would improve.
Angela Schear, Oral Roberts University
Civil War Nursing: A Comparison between Louisa May Alcott’s Work & Abigail Hopper Gibbons’
Civil War Diary
Nursing is a relatively new art. People have served in the nursing capacity for millennia, but only recently
has the field been recognized, schools been set up, and the art refined. Only a century and a half ago during
the Civil War, nursing was still in its infancy. Yet with mass numbers of wounded soldiers, women with
little to no training rose to the nurse’s challenge and saved thousands of lives. This presentation compares
two Civil War nurses’ experiences as documented in the fictitious novel of a well-known author and the
dairy of my great, great, great grandmother.
Bethany Scroggins, Abilene Christian University
Hypertext: An Introduction to the Non-Genre
In the postmodern age of websites and virtual reality, literature has also evolved technologically, producing
new forms of literary experience that defy specific definition. We will see some samples of electronic
hypertext that blur the lines between genres. New technologies and media for writing and teaching enable
a work to shift easily from art to instruction, fiction to reality, and from author to reader and back again.
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Jackie Seaman and Christian Bahrim, Lamar University
A Star is Born
This study began as an Honors Contract for a Modern Physics course and involves knowledge of the theory
of relativity and the photon theory of light. Through an analysis of stellar evolution, with concentration on
the processes occurring within a star throughout its lifetime, a deeper understanding of the concepts from
the course is gained. Through the combined efforts of the honors student and professor utilizing honors
program resources, this presentation exemplifies the collaborative scholarly activity that is central in the
purpose of the honors program.
Sheila Sloss, Johnson County Community College
Living with Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate: From Birth to Early Adulthood
This is a Power-Point presentation that relates a personal story of a child born with a cleft lip and cleft
palate. This presentation includes illustrations and pictures of the numerous surgeries necessary to correct
this birth defect. Information about the care involved both pre- and post-operatively is given, along with
before and after pictures that illustrate the dramatic changes that are possible with today's surgical
capabilities.
Jacqueline Smith, Texas Woman’s University
Friday the 13th: Fact or Fiction?
Synonymous with misfortune, the myth of Friday the 13th continues to be perpetuated and believed by
millions in contemporary society. This superstition, as the average person originally encounters it, seems
unfounded. Compellingly enough though, by accessing numerous websites on the internet, even skeptics
must admit that a fear of Friday the 13th, paraskevidekatriaphobia or friggatriskaidekaphobia, remains
deeply rooted not only in historical fears of Friday and the number 13 in any combination, but in biblical
and mythological contexts as well.
James Smith, John Brown University
Elementary Drama
The public elementary school system provides and interesting and exciting place to get an education and to
grow up. Having graduated from a small, private elementary school, I often have wondered just what the
differences were between my experiences and those of my publicly educated friends. How did their
environment effect their social development? What kind of challenges are being faced in today’s
elementary school that must be overcome in order to nurture healthy young adults? In my observation of
Southside Elementary of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, I identified three important areas that conflict with the
goal nurturing future citizens: cultural barriers, bullying/tough guy approach, and physical handicaps.
However, I also discovered within the school system various techniques being implemented that provided
positive and effective solutions to the challenges of today’s elementary school.
Olaf Standley, Tulsa Community College
Henry David Thoreau: The Man Behind the Literature
Henry David Thoreau not only wrote transcendental literature, he also lived a transcendental life. Although
he loved the beauty and isolation nature could provide, he was also a humanitarian who fought for the
rights of mankind. His ideals about the rights of man resulted in his passive resistance to the United States
government. Thoreau’s influence would grow over time and encompass both the literary and social realms.
In fact, Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. followed Thoreau’s philosophy of passive resistance. Come
explore Henry David Thoreau the transcendentalist, abolitionist and humanist.
Melanie Stewart, Lee College
Contradictions in the American Dream in Catherine Marshall’s Novel “Christy”
The American Dream is the common belief that in America, prosperity is within reach for anyone who
chooses to pursue it. Yet the very principles this Dream relies on—individualism, materialism, and
equality—encounter contradictions in many aspects of society. Catherine Marshall’s novel Christy
illustrates such contradictions. It narrates the experiences of a young volunteer schoolteacher in a poor
Appalachian community. The residents there reflect a culture that seems entirely separate from the rest of
America. The impoverished Appalachians in Christy present a startling contrast to the popular culture and
challenge us to reexamine the stereotype of the American Dream.
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Elizabeth Stockton, Texas Woman’s University
Huntington’s Disease: A Hereditary Mystery
Huntington’s disease is a hereditary neuro-degenerative disorder caused by an expansion in the IT-15, or
Huntington, gene on the 5’-end of chromosome 4, which encodes the protein Huntington. This gene was
discovered in 1993 and is still not understood, however, it is known that this faulty gene leads to damage of
nerve cells in areas of the brain including the basal ganglia and cerebral cortex. This disorder is an
autosomal dominant disorder that does not skip generations, has a very early onset, and swiftly impairs the
individuals with this gene.
I will be presenting a fifteen minute presentation over the above topic of Huntington’s disease. In this
presentation I will cover the following topics: history, Huntington protein and gene, symptoms, onset,
juvenile HD, inheritance, and genetic testing.
Anastasia Szpet, Texas Woman’s University
Allied Prisoners of War Under the Rising Sun
War destroys the lives of innocent people and corrupts men into committing horrible acts against others
who do not deserve such abuse. During World War II, the Japanese treated the Allied prisoners of war
horrendously in the Philippines compared to their Axis counterparts in Europe. This presentation will cover
the documented mistreatment of Allied prisoners of war in the Philippines during the long years of the
Second World War and give the audience a glimpse of what captive life was like for the Americans who
never saw their homes again.
Erin Tade, Miriam Dark and Stephanie Kelsey, Lamar University
Global Volunteerism: Lesser Known Opportunities With Great Rewards
What possibilities lay ahead in the future of global volunteerism for women and students whose majors
have little association with studying abroad? Our study examines the possibilities available for
undergraduate students to participate in service programs around the globe, with one of us even traveling
abroad. Through the Lamar University’s Honors Program, we discovered the various benefits associated
with international community service. We researched international volunteer organizations and found
several opportunities that serve to enrich the prospective volunteer’s life.
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Matt Teel, San Jacinto College South
Bias in the Media: How Does it Affect You?
This paper examines questions of bias in the media. There are many different forms of media outlets, and
different ways we can receive information about what is going on in the world. Many different television
stations, radio, and newspapers all feed us information, and whatever the media feeds us we usually accept.
If the media is biased, how does it affect you? What kinds of bias exist in the news, and do people ever
intentionally seek out bias? Ultimately, how do you know if the information you get from the media is
correct?
Lisa Trussell and Christa Gomez, Oral Roberts University
Does Intelligent Design Belong in the Classroom?
The debate over evolution and intelligent design is not new. Within the twentieth century, debates and
court battles occurred in the attempt to settle which should be taught in the public classroom (Kitzmiller vs.
Dover Area School District). Many arguments have been made for and against the teaching of both within
curriculum. The educational system seeks to develop students into a healthy society. In order to develop
such a society capable of making informed decisions about issues, students should be exposed to the facts
of both leading theories. Therefore, both evolution and intelligent design should be taught in the
classroom.
Cydni Vandiver, Texas Woman’s University
The Maturation of Editorial Cartoons through the Inter-War Years and World War II
This presentation shows how in the era encompassing the years following World War I and during World
War II, cartoonists changed their cartoons to reflect international affairs and the mindset of the American
people taking advantage of the opportunity to reflect and in some cases shape the readers’ opinions.
Specific cartoons will be discussed in complete detail – with certain points being stressed. In the
conclusion, I draw from certain cartoons that I talked about, showing through illustrations of the cartoon
how artists used the American mindset to persuade or dissuade the reader.
Oscar Villanueva, Lamar University
"The Birthmark": Example of Flawed Reason
In Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Romantic period short story “The Birthmark,” one can perceive Hawthorne
writing in reaction to the prevailing school of thought that precedes him, the Age of Reason. The
fundamental touchstones of this Enlightenment period are identified as “the primacy of reason, the
assertion of the scientific method, concern for experience, and a belief in progress.” “The Birthmark”
illuminates the unfavorable and skeptical regard in which Hawthorne holds these beliefs. Thus, “The
Birthmark” provides a critique of a time when there is a great emphasis on man’s control over nature
through science, the Age of Reason.
Jermane Wilson, Tulsa Community College
Benefits of Ethical Education
Tulsa Community College’s Honors Business Ethics class received a grant to participate in “Building
Character,” an educational enrichment project for poorly funded schools with a large minority population.
This grant focuses primarily on the potential benefits of teaching ethical values to 5th and 6th grade
students in public school, along with the opportunity to meet an educational and training need of a local
community. Throughout this presentation, we will show video clips and documentation confirming that
these students were successful in understanding and utilizing ethical concepts. Furthermore, we will offer
evidence demonstrating how the community was affected by this project.
Laura Witzel, Lee College
Plato and the Kingdom of Heaven
Plato, in his “Allegory of the Cave,” expresses hope for humanity with his assertion that those who have
recognized the illusions of the puppeteers and have been enlightened by truth must return to the cave in
order to show its prisoners life beyond illusions. Ridley Scott’s film Kingdom of Heaven suggests that hope
does not lie in kingdoms of the earth, which are subject to the darkness of constricted thought described in
the “Allegory of the Cave,” but in the realm of the mind which is not bound by the conventions of any one
creed, religion, or nationalistic venture.
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Shatrina Wolf, North Harris College
Community Education Needs for Hepatitis B
The purpose of this honors project is to address the current level of knowledge of Hepatitis B in the adult
members of the community and subsequently determine the learning needs. Based on my findings, an
educational plan will be developed to use as on means of community education.
Lillian Yates, Texas Woman’s University
The Role of Plato in Socrates’ Symposium
In this paper presentation, I will discuss Plato’s role in his work The Symposium, as he seems to include
himself in his cast of characters. In this symposium, Plato formulates a series of speeches about love that
introduces and leads up to the climax of Socrates’ speech. With this speech, he uses Socrates to address and
correct the other speakers as well as retell a priestess’s account of love that quite closely resembles Plato’s
perspective. With such an elevation of Socrates’ role, he uses this symposium to introduce and promote his
own views and beliefs about love.
Theresa Zekich and Nobel Macaden, Oral Roberts University
Hamas: Its Future and Why it Poses Such a Grave Threat
The recent election of Hamas as the leading party in the Palestinian territories poses serious questions.
Should a party that denies Israel’s right to exist and advocates terrorist attacks be recognized by the global
community?
Founded on Islamic fundamentalism, Hamas maintains ties with Hezbollah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and
the Muslim Brotherhood. Hamas leadership is based in Syria and members train in Lebanon, Iran and
Sudan. Hamas receives the majority of its funds transferred under the auspices of charitable organizations,
including “charities” in the United States and Great Britain and also directly from Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Providing 50% of social services in the Palestinian territories, Hamas continues to grow in popularity.
Hamas is more than a terrorist organization and requires a strategic foreign policy from Israel and the
United States which includes making it clear to the world how dangerous Hamas is, not only to Israel and
the United States, but also to the Palestinians.
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50 MINUTE SESSIONS
Nick Flynn (convener), Angelo State University, Guy Litton, Texas Woman’s University, Chris
Wellerton, Abilene Christian University, John Britt, Lee College, David Lawless, Tulsa Community
College, Gary Bell, Texas Tech University
Panel, Beginning in Honors
This Beginning in Honors workshop is primarily intended to allow new or relatively new Honors Program
directors and staff the opportunity to learn more about Honors Program/Honors College administration.
This is primarily an open ended discussion where attendees are provided the opportunity to ask panelists
questions related to the administration of an Honors Program/Honors College administration. In selecting
our panelists for this workshop, we tried to provide a good representation of the variety of honors programs
and colleges that exist. Issues that people have suggested include “learning the campus lingo,” space issues
and funding issues.
Edith Buller-Breer, Brett Bussart, Kyrstie Craig, Kristin Mehler, Yetunde Olukanni, Erika
Sandoval, Cari Troyer, Wichita State University
Developing the Leader in You
What influence do you hope to have in this world? Will you develop yourself and others to maximize the
potential for positive change? In this session, students from Wichita State's Honors Leadership seminar
will show how they have developed their own capacities as leaders, and lead a mini-workshop to help
participants define their own forms of leadership. We have learned that leadership is more about influence
than it is about position, role, or title. It is a way of being, not just doing. Our highly interactive workshop
will bring home these and other lessons learned in our two semester leadership seminar.
Samantha Cahue and Dale Horine, University of Arkansas—Fort Smith
Intelligent Design in Evolution: Leap of Faith or Science?
Is Intelligent Design appropriate for the science classroom? Or is it a faith-based philosophy that is outside
the realms of science? Two honors students will debate this in the form of an Oxford Debate. Audience
will be encouraged to participate by choosing sides by moving from one side of the room to the other as the
debate unfolds. Toward the end, a final vote will be taken.
Danielle Famble, Michelle Hajek, Lindsey Odum, Diana Black, McMurry University
Leadership Debate: Hitler vs. Churchill
This will be a debate taken from the honors section of the Servant Leadership course at McMurry where the
students will debate who was the better leader.
Casie Fruin, Texas Tech University
National HON
We will present to other schools about a National Honors Student Organization and its benefits.
Gregory Gantz and Heather Harrison, Emporia State University
An Exploration into the History and Race Relations of Vicksburg, Mississippi.
This presentation examines the city of Vicksburg, Mississippi and its history with respect to race relations
and the importance of the Mississippi River. Not only is Vicksburg a major city of the Deep South but it
played important roles in the history of our nation During the presentation we will look at how much the
area changed from before the Civil War through Reconstruction. We will also delve into the activities of
the Ku Klux Klan and its power throughout the region. From our honors research, we will share an
understanding of the history and culture of Vicksburg.
Blake Godkin, Texas A&M University
Will Universities Become Obsolete?
The 21st century will experience more progress than in all recorded history. Educational institutions that
do not adapt to change, create change and produce new knowledge will disappear. Tomorrow’s students
that are not prepared to produce knowledge (only to reproduce knowledge) won’t be able to compete in a
global future. This session will address the following questions: In what ways will education need to shift
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in order to remain relevant in a time of accelerating change? Will any curricula in today’s universities even
resemble curricula in the universities of 2020? Are traditional educational institutions prepared to go out of
business?
Nick Flynn, Angelo State University
Development of a good first semester seminar or Introduction to Honors course
Many Honors Programs utilize a first semester seminar or Introduction to Honors Study course to help
indoctrinate incoming Honors Program students into their programs. Some would argue that this course
alone plays a very important role in whether a student stays in an Honors Program. This workshop is
intended to provide Honors Program directors with a forum to discuss what makes such a course a
successful experience for incoming Honors Program students. A major goal of the workshop will be to help
directors develop a better first semester experience for incoming students through use of these course types.
Heather Harrison and Rachel Dickens, Emporia State University
Documenting a Disaster – Katrina Helping Hands
For residents of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and other areas in the South, Hurricane Katrina caused
devastation and pain. As part of our honors course, we wanted to help with the cleanup efforts in the Gulf
Coast region and to visit with the people to hear about their experiences. “Documenting a Disaster” is a
film that we produced after our group of students raised over $10,000, planned our journey, developed a
vision, and accomplished a dream to help others clean, heal, and voice their opinions to the world. The
documentary includes photos, interviews, and personal stories of those involved.
Alfred Litton, Texas Woman’s University
Organizing a North Texas Honors Council
This workshop will be an opportunity for North Texas honors directors, staff, and students to meet
informally in an effort to organize a local honors council that would serve two- and four-year honors
programs in the North Texas area. The workshop will address the needs of area schools with respect to
collaboration and will involve a discussion of the development of a framework for such an organization.
Katie Mills and Elizabeth Yelverton, Texas Women’s University
Possibilities Take Flight: Students’ Role in GPHC
Students, come to this workshop ready to dream up ideas of how you want the Honors students to have a
hand in running the GPHC show. Did you know that you have a voice in how GPHC does business? Do
you have ideas to involve students more in the processes of this regional organization? Come share them!
This session is for all students, and especially for newly elected GPHC student representatives, to come up
with ways that the students can organize and exercise their voice.
Lindsey Steiger, Denae Domerese and Vincent Gerardo, University of Arkansas-–Fort Smith
What’s so Roaring about the Roaring ‘20s?
The decade of the 1920s represents a period of enormous change, establishing many of the social, political,
and economic issues that remained significant in America throughout the 20th century. This panel will
discuss a variety of these issues, including organized crime and prohibition, the unregulated stock market,
and the emergence of the pop-culture image of the American woman.
Joel Walker, Texas Tech University
Creating Safe Space for GLBT Students
This workshop will provide a short presentation of some efforts at Texas Tech University to create a safe
environment on campus for GLBT (gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender) students. Following this,
participants will have a chance to discuss what efforts their respective colleges/universities are taking to
create similar safe spaces for the GLBT student community. We will also brainstorm other ways to
improve our campus climates for GLBT students.
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POSTERS
Josephene Arzola, Rockhurst University
Xocolatil-An Analysis of the Chocolate Industry
This analysis was completed for the Introduction to Microeconomics course as part of an Honors Option.
The chocolate industry is not one that is often discussed at length in the random conversations of laypeople;
therefore, I feel my presentation of the chocolate industry will serve to the interests and enjoyment of those
attending the Honors Conference. The analysis encompasses a range of topics including the history of the
chocolate industry, leading chocolate manufacturers, economically relevant information on the aggregate
industry and its future outlook, amongst other things. A synopsis of this information will be evident in my
poster presentation.
Elizabeth Barnes, Texas Tech University
The Evolution of Nazi Genocide
The background of war in Europe allowed the Nazis to take their ideology and extend it into concrete
policy practices. This ideological platform stated that the Jewish race was unworthy of life. What they
perceived as excess life was to be cleared away to make space for Germans. The process where ideology
became policy was a system of trial and error. With each solution to their supposed “Jewish Question” they
encountered new problems which required new solutions each one becoming more radical. My research
looks into this evolutionary process and how the Nazis moved from street violence to mass killings.
Selena Baxter and Sylvia Kline, Oklahoma City University
The Effect of Gender Stereotypes on Female Politicians
The United States population consists of 50.9% females; however, women only represent 15.1% of the
houses of the U.S. Congress. Gender stereotypes underlie many theories and experiments in women's
studies. Traits derived from gender stereotypes help develop cultural gender roles for each sex in all areas
of life, including politics. Even the media tend to focus coverage of female politicians on women's roles
within their families rather than on their accomplishments in office. We believe that males and masculine
qualities wil be favored over females and feminine qualities. We also expect women with children will be
the least likely group to be elected.
Elizabeth Beights and Dr. Jorge Iber. Texas Tech Department of History, Lubbock, Texas.
The Politics of South Texas Football: E. C. Lerma and the Parr Machine.
The most notorious of all the South Texas’ political rings was the Duval County machine headed by the
Parr family from 1908 through 1975. The regime’s control affected all aspects of daily life for the county’s
mostly Mexican American residents. A biographical analysis of the life of one member of this community,
Coach Everardo Carlos Lerma, provides a “reflection of the wider Mexican American experience” by
elucidating questions that other scholars of this ethnic group’s history have not examined in detail. After
accepting his coaching position with Benavides (in 1940) through five decades, E.C. Lerma played and
coached the game of football, but was also forced to play the “game” of politics concerning his ties to the
Parr machine.
Eric Beutlich, Texas Tech University
Digital Signal Processing
The are many methods for determining and detecting a transmitted signal. This poster presents on research
for digital discrete signal processing. The research entailed simulating sending a signal through spreading,
filter banks, and a channelizer, and interpreting the message signal through different common channels.
Caitlin Cairns, Oklahoma City University
Disease or Choice? Pro-Anorexic Websites Challenge Society’s Perspective on Self-Mutilation
This research analyzes two controversial opinions about anorexia. Through a comparison of the
medical/psychological perception of the disease to the defending stance taken by pro-anorexics, attention is
brought to an emerging underground culture: pro-anorexic websites. Through the sites, many anorexics
express that they have the right to self-injury as a means of self-expression. In stark contrast, the general
public believes that anorexia is a mental illness that must be treated, even if against the victim’s will. This
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analysis examines the ethicality of the opposing viewpoints as well as how the pro-ana sites may alter our
perspectives on self-injury and mutilation.
Beth Carta, Lubbock Christian University
American Education: Does it make the Grade?
Education in the United States of America is suffering when compared to many other “developed” nations,
causing the US to look inferior and stupid. In this poster, I will use graphs, statistics, and other aids to take
a look at some of the reasons American schools are considered inferior, with a special look at test scores.
In addition, I will offer possible solutions to raise test scores in the US. I will be highlighting the
emphasis of grades within American schools and what might happen if the American educational mindset
changed and learning became more important than making the grade
Rebekah Chase, University of North Texas
A Study on Religiosity and Alcohol Use at the University of North Texas
This study will examine the relationship of alcohol use and abuse to spirituality and religiosity among a
convenience sample of 100 college students. It is hypothesized that the negative relationship between
religiosity and alcohol use will be more dramatic among underage college students because legal standards
label underage drinking a “bad” behavioral choice. With older students, religiosity will have a stronger
negative effect on alcohol abuse because legal consumption is not as socially and morally stigmatized as is
abusing alcohol. This study has strong implications for socially active religious organizations that are
working to prevent risky behaviors on college campuses.
Stephanie Clark, Emporia State University
An Exploration and Comparison of Chinese and American Culture.
An examination of another culture provides insights into your culture. I have examined Chinese and
American culture through a comparison of aspects of family life, education, and health care. The roles of
parents and children are more narrowly defined within Chinese families and children are more likely to
defer to the wishes of their parents. In a Chinese classroom, students are discouraged from speaking, and
Chinese prefer natural healing remedies as opposed to using prescription medications. This comparison
between China and America has led me to explore the origin of these differences and to evaluate my own
beliefs and customs.
Katie Curtis and Holly Gaskins, Lubbock Christian University
A Few Good Men…and Ahab: A Literary Analysis of Characterization in 1 Kings 16: 29–19:21
As the title suggests, the aim of this poster presentation is to highlight characterization of King Ahab,
Obadiah, and Elijah in 1 Kings. After a literary analysis, it was concluded that characterization plays a
major role in the narrative. The author uses characterization to compare and contrast the characters. The
ways the characters are portrayed adds significantly to the story both on the narrative level and on the level
of meaning in the passage and the book as a whole. This presentation discusses the descriptions of each of
these characters and compares and contrasts them to illustrate how the author used characterization to
enhance the meaning of the passage.
Scotty Dennis, Emporia State University
Understanding High Definition Television: An Examination of the Engineering Basics in HDTV
Emerging standards in broadcast quality have produced many new acronyms. These acronyms are insights
into some very interesting engineering innovations. In this presentation, I will explain and compare
different types of high definition television (CRT, LCD, Plasma, PLP, and LCoS), the engineering basics
behind each, and the image quality produced by the different engineering methods. I will further explain
the different HD resolutions (480i, 480p, 720i, 1080i, and 1080p) and compare them to standard definition
television. I will also explain and compare the different types of high definition video cables and the
physical principles behind them (HDMI, DVI, and Component).
Rita Dunn, University of North Texas
Assessing the Need for Library Services for Senior Citizens
This project will evaluate areas of needed expansion in public library services for the growing population
of senior citizens. I will conduct an analysis of secondary data to identify available specialized services for
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senior citizens at three local and regional libraries, including large print books, book delivery services,
computers with adaptations such as enlarged text features and variable speed readers, and book delivery
services. A convenience sample of seniors will be surveyed at three pubic libraries, senior citizens centers,
and senior housing facilities. Results will identify feasible additional services and increase public patron
awareness of technology to enhance library use.
Shasta Fuqua, Lubbock Christian University
Reversing the Effects of Neglect Among Internationally Adopted Children
In the United States alone, 140,000 international adoptions have taken place over the last decade. Few
adoptive parents are prepared to deal with the many behavioral and physical problems that are pervasive
among these adopted children. This poster will use Attachment Theory to explain the persistent presence
of difficulties experienced by internationally adopted children. The methods and benefits of therapeutic
summer camps, one of the most innovative and effective treatments for disturbed children, are also
examined through this poster. A number of charts, graphs, and case studies are used to further explain why
therapeutic summer camps are becoming a viable option for many families.
Isaac Garcia, Lubbock Christian University
A Crash Course In Ethics: Whom It Affects, What To Consider, When It Matters, Where Its Benefit
Comes From, And Why Even Bother
In today’s society, there are many ethical concepts ranging from moral absolutism to situational ethics. This
poster will represent the general schools of moral thought and some considerations they broach. Of major
importance is the “value-neutral” teaching in our current public school system. This sets the youth of our
nation on a slippery road with no moral compass to guide them. Hopefully, scandals like Enron and
Worldcom are isolated incidents that will not repeat in the years to come. However, unless we grow in our
own understanding of ethics, then I fear we will continue to see even more Enrons.
Laura Gee, Texas Tech University
The Role of a Grandfather
The purpose of this study is to examine the role of grandfathers from their point of view. The study
contains 38 interviews of West Texas grandfathers who describe their relationship with their grandchildren.
All the interviews were analyzed to find out how grandfathers play a part in theiir grandchildren’s lives.
Our data indicates that grandfathers are more involved with their grandchildren than is previously described
in other research.
Daniel Gillit and Sarah Vela, Lubbock Christian University
The American Traitor who set America Free: A brief look at the Historiography of Benedict Arnold
This poster presentation encompasses the historiography of Benedict Arnold as a contributor and a traitor to
America. It incorporates traditionalists, revisionists, and post-revisionists views of the infamous traitor.
Traditionalists feel Arnold was a conspirator, while the modern revisionist feel Benedict Arnold was forced
to betray the colonial powers during the height of the American Revolution. The recent post-revisionist
view contends Arnold was wrong; however, he was the key person responsible for the turning point of the
war. With the use of modern day psychology and mosaic composition of several resources, we will explore
different views about Benedict Arnold.
Ashley Gooding and Rebekah Leblanc, Lubbock Christian University
Christianity vs. Tattoos
For the 2006 Great Plains Regional Honors Conference we would like to submit a poster proposal for
"Christianity vs. Tattoos." In this poster we will research the spiritual and scriptural perspectives of
tattooing. We will also do in-depth research of passages in the original Greek to see what they really mean.
We will also ask several congregational leaders of different Christian denominations about their doctrinal
and personal views on the subject. Through this project we hope to analyze both the scripture, history, and
the denominational Christian doctrine. Through all of these points of view, we will conclude what we think
the truth of this highly debated topic is. It tattooing against the Christian faith, or have Christians blindly
accepted that it is wrong without fully researching the topic? We hope to find out.
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Cecily Haley and Erin Chisman, Angelo State University
West Texas Mercantile Giants
Inside the Concho Valley of San Angela, a mercantile giant flourishes to someday become the Western
landmark of San Angelo, Texas. This poster is a study of the early mercantile industry in San Angelo,
including S. Lapowski and Brother and Schwartz and Raas.
Lacey Hall, Emporia State University
Persuasive Tactics of the National American Woman Suffrage Association
Towards the end of the 19th Century, women began seeking a greater voice in politics and society,
including the right to vote. The National American Woman Suffrage Association played a key role in this
movement, and its leaders, including Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Carrie Chapman Catt,
played a key role in the ratification of the 19th Amendment. I will examine the leaders, their lives, the
history of the organization, and some of the persuasive tactics used by this organization to help women gain
equal voting rights. I will also examine how this organization affected the overall society.
Austin Halliday, Lubbock Christian University
Cultural Trends and Technology
Our presentation details the effects of modern technology on popular culture. Technology is responsible
for the faster propagation of popular culture through television, Internet, cellular phones, and various other
forms of electronic media. These technologies allow people from varying cultures to interact, resulting not
only in entirely new trends (“J-Pop”, or westernized Japanese pop music, for example) but also in the
transmission of established trends from one area to another, exemplified by the proliferation of the “Valley
Girl” culture. Our presentation will involve visual representations of these and other trends, and an
explanation of how they are communicated via technology.
Sean Hannon, Texas Tech University
Design for Microcantilever Detection
Contemporary configurations for Microcantilever detectors include downward facing lasers. A design in
which lasers, levers and photodetectors are horizontally aligned provides access to components for better
adjustment, repair or cleaning.
Sarah Hennes, University of North Texas
The Complexities of Career Development
This project will focus on career development professionals and strategies and theories that counselors can
implement in order to better assess and guide their clients. Career counselors may use a combination of
standardized assessments, individual counseling, and/or group counseling. This project will report on the
results of interviews with (1) students who have used career guidance including assessments and/or
individual or group career counseling; (2) counselors or professional facilitators of career counseling
services; (3) career development specialists with a business/industry background; and (4) career center
management, directors, and/or noted experts in the field of career counseling.
Amy Hixon, University of North Texas
Youth and HIV/AIDS in South Africa
This meta-analysis will examine the quantitative and qualitative empirical research literature on HIV/AIDS
among youth in South Africa and the effect sexual behavior and culture play in the spread of the epidemic.
Sexual culture includes attitudes, stigmas and myths associated with the disease as well as various risk
behaviors such as the use of condoms, and multiple partners. Along with these topics, numerous programs
have been introduced for the youth in South Africa with the hopes of helping the youth and stopping the
spread of HIV/AIDS.
Jessica Holman, Lubbock Christian University
History’s view of Sacagawea
Women in history often have subtle, hard to identify roles and personalities. Further confusing the issue is
the fact that various historical views can interpret the same event in different ways. My poster looks at
various historical views of the famed Sacagawea in the Lewis and Clark expedition. It focuses the role she
played on the expedition. The three historical schools of thought used are the Traditionalist, Revisionist,
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and Post Revisionist views. The poster explores how each view interprets key points of the expedition as
gleaned from the personal journals of Lewis and Clark and other men aboard the expedition.
Thomas Kennedy and Russ Pickett, Lubbock Christian University
Godly Restraining Order
Our paper is a literary analysis of I Samuel 24-26. In chapters 24 and 26, David is being pursued by Saul,
while chapter 25 is about David's mistreatment from Nabel. The underlying theme in this passage is
David’s apparent restraint towards Saul. Through a literary analysis, we discovered that David was God’s
chosen king of Israel instead of Saul because of the restraint he showed. Saul, however, lacked this
restraint.
During our literary analysis, we looked at devices such as repetition of key words, main ideas, and at the
overall picture.
Brittanie Lassiter and Amy Warren, Lubbock Christian University.
Scientists or Spies? A Brief Look at the Historiography of the Lewis and Clark Expedition
This poster presents a brief look at the historiography of Lewis and Clark’s exploratory expedition that
began in 1804. Consulting several books and journals provided the traditionalist, revisionist, and postrevisionist views of the expedition. The poster details each position in concise format, allowing one to see
at a glance the many different ways that Lewis and Clark’s expedition has been presented over the years.
Research for this poster also included looking at the background of specific authors to determine why they
might have their particular views on the purpose of the exploration.
Christopher Park, Rockhurst University
Fgf 3 found to be expressed in the pharyngula and hatching stages of zebrafish development
Expression of the Fgf3 (fibroblast growth factor 3) within Danio rerio is co-expressed with the Fgf8 gene
and is involved in otic placode formation of chickens and mice. This led to a hypothesis of expression
early in development, beginning in the gastrula stage, and continuing throughout development. Through
RT-PCR and gel electrophoresis, Fgf3 expression was found to be expressed in the pharyngula and
hatching stages of zebrafish embryonic development.
Landeia Phillips, University of North Texas
Grandparents Raising Children with Disabilities
Disabilities project seeks to understand the needs of minority grandparents raising children with
disabilities. Interview surveys will be used to collect data on personal, family, and school issues
grandparents experience as caregivers. The research study will focus on five areas: (1) school efforts to
partner with grandparents, (2) quality of services, (3) comprehension of school services and technology, (4)
impact of special education services on family life, and (5) availability of support agencies and caregiver
training programs. Implications for school-sponsored grandparent support groups will be discussed.
Remington Pohlmeyer, University of North Texas
Environmental Inequality in Tarrant County: The Business of Pollution
I seek to understand the nature and extent of environmental contamination as generated by public and
private sector activities in Tarrant County, Texas, and examine the inequitable distribution of
environmental contamination related to social, demographic and economic characteristics of area residents.
Data collected at the census tract level using the 2000 U.S. Census and the EPA’S Toxic Release Inventory
for the year 2000 will be used as the major data sources. Statistical analyses, including OLS regression, are
used to establish the links among the variables. I will conclude by presenting theoretical explanations for
the existence of environmental inequality.
Gerry Ralcheva, McMurry University
Broken Windows Theory: Does Shattered Glass Hold the Truth?
Societal equitability can be promoted by using multicultural children’s picture books to teach English as a
second language (ESL). Some traditional teaching strategies used with native English speakers are applied
to ESL instruction using multicultural picture books as a tool to broaden the English language learner’s
perspective about other cultures as well as his/her own. Methods include: reenactment of the text, picture
walking, reading aloud, directed reading activity, directed reading thinking activity, and free reading. In
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considering which texts are appropriate to use for these strategies, criteria are presented for judging
multicultural picture books.
Heather B. Rogers, Angelo State University
Consumer sensory responses to three versions of a pork jalapeno German sausage
Three treatments of pork jalapeno German sausage were developed then tested by consumers. The control
(Angelo State University Meat Laboratory’s jalapeno German sausage) was made using fresh jalapenos.
Dehydrated jalapenos were substituted for the other two treatments (8 or 12 oz:100 lbs pork). Consumers (n
= 50) evaluated a sample from each treatment on texture, juiciness, flavor, overall liking, and likelihood to
purchase. No significant difference was found between treatments except in juiciness. The dehydrated
treatments were juicier than the control. However, consumers did not indicate a difference for overall
liking or likelihood to purchase any of the three products.
Heather Rooth, University of North Texas
The Effect of Technology on Achievement in Mathematics
This study will examine the correlation between the success of students utilizing teaching technology and
their standardized test scores in mathematics. This project will take data from several students in a local
school district and compare achievement scores on tests using the GoToLearn diagnostics. Participants will
either use teacher based instruction or technology instruction but not both. Pre- and post-tests will be given
to the entire group to measure their abilities before and after instruction. Personal interviews will also be
conducted in order to gauge the student’s responses to the different methods.
Laura Setchfield, Rockhurst University
"Links Between Mathematical Analysis and Ceramic Production"
Throughout the course of this past academic year to fulfill the requirements of my honors thesis, I produced
10 pieces of ceramic art that exhibit an interdisciplinary approach to my studies. The surfaces were
addressed with workups and solutions that were taken from my upper division studies in mathematics and
physics.
The aim of the pieces that were constructed was to express both the beauty of form and the beauty
found in mathematical analysis.
The link between these two areas exists both within and independently of me, and I have studied the
similarities throughout the course of this past year.
Calinda Shely, Angelo State University
Effects of Coed Residence Halls on Learning Environment and GPAs
This poster is a study of the differing conditions of coed and single-sex residence halls and their effects on
student success as measured by GPA and number of courses attempted and completed. The study also
relies upon direct observational and survey data as a measure of student satisfaction with living
environment and overall academic experience.
Katrina Torres and David Warshauer, Lubbock Christian University
Views of the Great Awakening: Why did this event occur?
My project will explain and discuss the traditionalist, revisionist, and post-revisionist views concerning the
Great Awakening. It will include the predominantly active groups involved in the evolution of current
religion, and it will discuss the opposing views held by the “old lights” and the “new lights.” Furthermore,
the project will discuss why and how the Great Awakening began: the colonists had “fallen asleep” to
religion because the distance to religious services was generally too far for a family to travel. In closing,
this proposal will present three perspectives concerning this event, and it will contain many details
concerning the why and how of this event.
Luc Turner, Angelo State University
What makes an Honors student different?
Honor students at the surface, look very similar to other students in universities. In fact, analysis conducted
at Angelo State could not find significant differences in any of the major personality facets when compared
against other students. On a hunch, we compared a group of honors students with regular students on the
MTQ short questionnaire. Finally, we have interesting and statistically significant findings that provide
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insight and proof as to the differences between honors students and other university students. The findings
of this research will be presented, along with a discussion on what these findings could mean for Honors
Programs.
William Waller, Texas Tech University
The Rise of Metrosexuality: Is there Masculinity beyond Machismo?
Recently a post-macho masculinity has seemingly allowed men the opportunity to embrace that which has
long been defined as feminine. Everything from manicures and spas to caring for children seemed off limits
for men until the emergence of what advertisers coined metrosexuality. This project explores the ways in
which men have challenged traditional notions of masculinity amidst fears of effeminacy and homophobia,
paying particular attention to the post-WWII era with contemporary attempts to create less rigid definitions
of masculinity.
Julie Weathers, Texas Tech University
Do Light and Temperature Truly Affect Semen Quality in All Species?
It is recognized that environmental conditions have an influence on the quality of semen samples used for
artificial insemination, yet procedures appear to be based more on tradition than science. This laboratory
has reported findings which suggest, contrary to dogma, stallion semen can survive a number of storage
environments. In this study, the effects of light and temperature were examined in two other species by
placing samples into four light and temperature environments, and monitored for standard parameters. Each
species appeared to have a specific environmental requirement (P < .001), suggesting no universal need for
a dark, warm environment.
Maureen Weber, Rockhurst University
Analysis of Medicinal Constituents in a Native American Prairie Plant
An investigation into the medicinally active and chemical constituents of the Native American plant,
Monarda fistulosa, used by the Plains Indians has been undertaken. I have been able to identify the volatile
constituents obtained by steam distillation using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry. Several of
these have previously been recognized as possessing medicinal activities, but cannot account for all of the
purported activities of these plants. Using Electron Impact Ionization I have been able to identify several
new constituents, several of which I can link to their medicinal use by the Plains Indians.
Bethany Wood, Alan Swinford, Richard Roper, and Britni McCay, Lubbock Christian University
Trends in Romantic Relationships
The purpose of our project is to study the patterns of behavior in heterosexual romantic relationships. We
will determine what factors are most likely to impact these relationships. We will focus on relationships in
which at least one of the parties involved is in the age range of 17-21 years old. We will use mass email to
distribute brief surveys. We will also conduct interviews with approximately 50 people for more detailed
insights. We will organize and evaluate this data, finding which trends are more prevalent in relationships,
and recommend what steps may be taken to improve them.
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