Florida Memorial University Palm Beach State College

Home , Broward College, Jacksonville University

FloridaFlorida CollegiateCollegiate HonorsHonors CouncilCouncil AnnualAnnual ConferenceConference 20122012

Building Excellence In Honor Students

February 24-26, 2012 Doubletree Palm Beach Gardens

Table of Content

Welcome………………………………………………………………………………………1 Schedule at a Glance……………………………………………………………………..2-3 Rules & Regulations…………………………………………………………………………4 Mission………………………………………………………………………………………...5 Member Institutions………………………………………………………………………….6 Executive Board……………………………………………………………………………...7 Community Service (Silent Auction)……………………………………………………….8 Saturday, Session 1……………………………………………………………………9-17 Session 2…………………………………………………………………..18-26 Session 3…………………………………………………………………..27-34 Session 4…………………………………………………………………..35-41 Session 5…………………………………………………………………..42-48 Session 6…………………………………………………………………..49-53 Movie Night………………………………………………………………………………….54 Sunday, Session 7…………………………………………………………………..55-61 Thank You…………………………………………………………………………………..62 Hotel Map…………………………………………………………………………………...63 Notes……………………………………………………………………………………..64-65 Welcome

Welcome Conference Attendees:

Hello! On behalf of the Conference Student Planning Committee, Executive Board Members, and our 2012 host, Palm Beach State College, I would like to extend a South Florida welcome to all the attendees at our Annual Conference of the Florida Collegiate Honors Council.

The 2012 conference theme is Building Excellence in Honor Students. As members of the honors community, we all have within us the capacity and the desire to achieve great things. Throughout our conference program, we hope you will take advantage of the opportunity to share your great dreams and courageous actions – whether by presenting at the conference, networking with fellow honors members from across the state, or taking new ideas back to your home campuses.

I look forward to adding another opportunity for faculty and honor students to engage together during this weekend. Welcome again, I hope you enjoy the conference !

Warmly,

Marcella A. Montesinos 2012 FCHC Conference Chair Vice President, FCHC

1 Schedule at a Glance

Friday, February 24, 2012

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Registration and Drop-off of Silent Auction Items 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM Welcome and Dinner in Ballroom Dr. Dennis P. Gallon, President of Palm Beach State College 7:15 PM - 8:15 PM Writing Contest Award Ceremony & Scholarship Recipients Winners Announced FCHC Executive Board Student Rep Welcome - Open Call for New Nominations 8:15 PM - 10:00 PM Student Social with Entertainment near Poolside 8:15 PM - 10:00 PM Honors Director/Faculty Meet and Greet in Esalen 1

Saturday, February 25, 2012

7:15 AM - 8:15 AM Breakfast Buffet in Ballroom 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Continued Registration Near Lobby 8:00 AM - 12:30 PM Silent Auction - Proceeds benefiting Quantum House 9:00 AM - 9:50 AM Session 1 10:00 AM - 10:50 AM Session 2 11:00 AM - 11:50 AM Session 3 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Luncheon and Keynote Address in Ballroom Speaker: Dr. Alexandria Halloway, Former Dean Miami Dade College Speaker: Representative from Quantum House 2:00 PM - 2:50 PM Session 4 3:00 PM - 3:50 PM Session 5 4:00 PM - 4:50 PM Session 6 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Honors Director/Staff Round Table in LaStone 1 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Student Representative Board Meeting (if needed) 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Dinner on your own 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Optional) Movie with Popcorn in LaStone 1-3

2 Schedule at a Glance (Cont.)

Sunday, February 26, 2012

7:15 AM - 8:15 AM Breakfast Buffet in Ballroom 9:00 AM - 9:50 AM Session 7 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Directors' Meeting in LaStone 1 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Students' Meeting in Ballroom 11:15 AM - 12:15 PM FCHC Annual Business Meeting in Ballroom 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Executive Board Meeting in LaStone 1

Thank You to our Sponsor:

www.twc.edu

3 Rules & Regulations

 Be considerate of times when sessions begin. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early.

 Please respect presenters, turn OFF your cell phones or put them on vibrate.

 Wear your Conference Name Badge at all times.

 Respect other guests at the hotel.

 Dress appropriately to all events hosted by the Conference.

Need Information or Lost something ? Stop by the Relaxation Room. We are here to help you !

4 Mission

The mission of Florida Collegiate Honors Council is:

 To provide a forum for sharing information about and improving the quality of Honors programs;

 To provide students with greater opportunities for inter- collegiate Honors program activities;

 To collaborate with the regional and national organiza- tions which have similar goals;

 To encourage articulation and collaborative programming between Honors programs at associate and bacca- laureate institutions;

 To increase the public and private awareness of and fis- cal commitment to Honors programs and projects.

5 Member Institutions

Brevard Community College Broward College The Burnett Honors College @ UCF College of Central Florida Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University Florida Atlantic University Florida State College at Jacksonville Florida International University Florida Southern College Florida State University Gulf Coast Community College Hillsborough Community College Jacksonville University Miami Dade College New College of Florida Nova Southeastern University Palm Beach State College Polk State College Honors Program Santa Fe College Seminole State College Tallahassee Community College University of Tampa University of Florida University of Miami University of North Florida University of South Florida University of West Florida Valencia College

6 Executive Board

Janet Haavisto Melissa Johnson President Past President Jacksonville University University of Florida

Marcella Montesinos Deborah Hefferin Vice President Secretary Palm Beach State College Broward College

Debra Socci Kathleen Lazarus Treasurer Scholarship Coordinator Seminole State College Daytona State College

Valerie Burks Loretta Adoghe Writing Contest Coordinator 2 Year Public Representative Valencia College Miami Dade College

Jennifer Phillips Gary Luter 4 Year Public Representative 4 Year Private Representative University of West Florida University of Tampa

Ann Dowdell Michael Metzner 2 Year Public Student Representative 4 Year Public Student Representative Valencia College Florida Atlantic University

Nikki Jones James Rowland 4 Year Private Student Representative Webmaster Florida Memorial University Palm Beach State College

7 Community Service

where hope has a home Fueled by the vision, energy and resources of Quantum Foundation, The Junior League of the Palm Beaches and St. Mary’s Medical Center, Quantum House opened its doors in 2001 to serve more than 1300 family members each year. As the only facility of its kind between Orlando and Ft. Lauderdale, Quantum House is proudly celebrating its 10th Anniversary in 2011.

Families and their children from every state and more than a dozen countries have found a caring a supportive home at this ten guest suite facility. Quantum House - where "hope has a home."

All proceeds from the Silent Auction on Saturday, February 25th, 2012 will be donated to the Quantum House.

8 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

LaStone 1

FCHC Writing Contest Winners– Documented Research/Critical Thinking Join the winners of the FCHC Writing Contest: Documented Research or Critical Thinking , Freshman/Sophomore and Junior/Senior categories for an extended discussion of their work Doubt Viewed as an Entity: Symbiotic, Complex and Apparent Kristen Brown – St. Petersburg College

Realist Theory in International Relations Geraldine Lopez – Broward College

The Cyclical Nature of Love and Relationship in Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God Corwin McCammon – Indian River State College

Creating Controversy: How Our View of Education has Failed to Evolve Cheyenne Surhe Korn – Santa Fe College

9 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

LaStone 2

Diabetes Type 1: Advances for the Artificial Pancreas Erica Scaglione – St. Petersburg College The purpose of this research is to see how many advances medicine has made towards creating an artificial pancreas for diabetes type 1. Diabetes type 1 is a lifelong chronic disease in which there are high levels of sugar in the blood stream. The pancreas, in diabetics, does not produce a hormone called insulin. Insulin moves the blood sugar cells in your body, keeping your blood sugar regulated. Without insulin, glucose builds in the bloodstream, causing diabetes type 1. This illness has been the inspiration for finding a cure and other alternatives to maintain it. The artificial pancreas project has almost hit its breakthrough that represents the first step toward drastically improving the lives of millions of people with type 1 diabetes: an artificial pancreas, an automated system to disperse insulin based on real-time changes in blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Mellitus: Enhancing Lives by Spreading Knowledge Claire Gelin – Florida A&M University Diabetes mellitus is clinically defined as a chronic disease in which there are high levels of sugar in the blood. Diabetes mellitus is commonly found in the African American community. In addition, research indi- cates that African Americans are about four times more likely to experience kidney failure and other health complications that can be associated with diabetes mellitus. It is the belief of the researcher that by spreading awareness about diabetes mellitus, others will be able to make better health decisions that may prevent diabetes and ultimately lead to an enhanced future.

Preventing Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2) Maroua Abouelhouda – Florida A&M University Type 2 diabetes is rapidly becoming a nation-wide epidemic. However, becoming educated on the root causes of the disease may help those who are at a higher risk for diabetes to prevent it. Through con- sistent practices of maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and learning to manage stress, Ameri- cans have the ability to prevent the onset of this illness.

10 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

LaStone 3

Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria: How Resistance Begins and Research Focused on Eliminating Resistance Imarhia Enogieru – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College This presentation focuses on the recent surge of infections caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotic treatments and the scientific research dedicated to finding new therapies that will inhibit bacterial growth and cure patients of infection. Our research focuses on finding a compound that can target the proteins bacteria use to render antibiotics inactive; if a compound destroys those proteins, then the bacteria lose their resistance to antibiotics, allowing for bacterial death. Therefore, a compound with this ability could be used in combination with antibiotics as an effective treatment against antibiotic resistant bacterial infections.

Mechanisms of Neuroprotection Mediated by Ghrelin in Neuronal Cell Michael Metzner – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College Ghrelin is a 28-amino acid peptide secreted by the stomach. Over the past decade, studies have shown ghrelin to have broad effects throughout the body. Recently, ghrelin has been shown to have possible neuroprotective effects in brain. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a cellular organelle responsible for processing proteins. When misfolded proteins accumulate in the ER, cellular stress pathways ensue, and are linked to a number of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Expression of genes and proteins involved in potential neuroprotective pathways will be examined to learn how ghrelin mediates its rescue effect in brain cells.

Parkinson’s Disease Nikki Jones – Florida Memorial University Parkinson's disease is one of the most common neuro-degenerative diseases. 500,000 people suffer from this disease within the US, with 50,000 new cases annually. This presentation will examine scientific compounds and dopamine levels that can be used as pathfinders for the design of novel molecules for anti- Parkinsonism.

11 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

Fango 1

Music and Its Role in Creating the Well-Rounded Honors Student Alyssa N. Carson – Florida A&M University Music has been shown to help students develop their intelligence, as well as aid them in succeeding in school and society. Students who study music, or play an instrument, typically have more success in life than those students who allow music to go by the wayside. Success in society is predicated by success in school. The intrinsic value of music enriches the life of the student. The discipline that studying music re- quires helps the student to develop discipline in other areas, such as academics. Students develop good study habits after they develop habits of practicing their respective instruments.

Assessing Reading Abilities in Elementary School Sherika Hyacinth – Florida Memorial University This presentation will examine reading in the elementary school by focusing on the African American male as a sample for the Ekwall Shanker (Informal) Reading Inventory. Research now shows that for all children, learning to read and reading to learn should be happening simultaneously and continuously, from pre- school through middle school and beyond.

Improving Education in Hillsborough County, Florida Melanie Olinger – University of Tampa Since Hillsborough county has received Race to the Top funding from the Gates foundation, the district has been spinning their wheels to implement a plan for creating a community of more effective teachers. The district experiences a great start by identifying five ways to address challenges facing education today. The goal of the presentation is to analyze four of the five challenges (supportive leadership to teachers, innovative programs to reach today’s students, measures for student performance, and national standards), establish a criteria for best practice, and by process of eliminating, determine the best plan of action.

12 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

Fango 2

Standardized Testing Fatema Hassanali – Seminole State College Standardized testing has been part of the U.S. Educational System for over sixty years. Over that time period, it has become one of the most controversial issues related to our education system. My presentation will discuss its future along with the present problems with standardized testing and how it is affecting students.

Creating Rubrics in LiveText to Assess Student Learning Dr. Raymond Papp – University of Tampa LiveText is web-based application designed to support student assessment for program improvement. It provides students with a performance-based assessment of their work for use both in school and after graduation. LiveText has been adopted numerous universities including the University of Tampa for use in assessing student learning outcomes as required by SACS, AACSB and ABET accreditation agencies. The tool allows faculty, students and those assessing the students to view the students’ work outcomes and measure the achievement of each programs’ outcomes. This presentation will discuss the use of LiveText in classes and focus on rubric creation to assess student work.

Place as Text: Opportunities for Experiential Learning Dr. Gary Luter – University of Tampa How can experiential learning components augment current pedagogical approaches in your discipline, as well as assist Honors faculty in using experiential learning in their own courses? This presentation, based on experiences while participating in Arts, Musics, Literatures: Cultures and Identity in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, Honors Institute, July, 2011. Specifically, the following topics will be examined: discovering appropriate experiential learning models for the arts; strengthening experiential learning within the Honors program; configuring experiential learning activities that capture the eight principles for “best practices” in EE; and developing the means to acquaint/inform faculty regarding their roles as experiential educators.

13 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

Lulur 1

The Tuvalu Islands: A People Threatened by Climate Change Tayler Massey – Jacksonville University The Tuvalu Islands are a group of nine small atoll and limestone reef islands located in the Pacific Ocean halfway between the United States and Australia. The islands cover a total of 26 km2 in landmass, spread out over 900 km2 of ocean. Living only a few feet above sea level, the Tuvaluans’ way of life is dependent on the ocean as a vital resource. Living in close association with the ocean also makes the nation of Tuvalu susceptible to the negative effects of the ocean. Sea-level rise is the element of climate change that affects Tuvalu the greatest. I researched how climate change, in particular sea-level rise, has affected and will continue to affect Tuvalu both geographically and culturally. The current and future outlook for change to the Tuvaluans’ islands has the potential to threaten their culture and way of life, along with the existence of their country.

Fisheries & Climate Change: Fish Gotta Swim, but can they out-swim Global Warming? Sara Schunter – Jacksonville University Climate change is causing a temperature increase in oceanic waters across the globe. This increase is having noted changes in distribution of multiple fishery populations. Because some fish species have distinct temperature ranges they must maintain for survival this shift in distribution is necessary. With the warming waters, fishery populations are moving in a northward pattern to reach cooler temperatures. Distribu- tion shifts impact marine ecosystems because of the change in species involved in each food web. This will cause predator-prey interactions to evolve over time due to constant cycling of shifting fish species to various locations. A complete review of primary literature and government documents will be conducted to have a firm understanding of current and projected climate change, the impact this change is having on global fish populations, changes in interactions of marine ecosystems, and finally future research that could be conducted.

14 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

Lulur 1 (continued)

Barrier Islands Beware William Webb – Seminole State College Most of Florida’s coast is barrier islands adjacent to the most destructive force on earth, the ocean. When a hurricane hits one of these fragile islands, it can cause severe damage. Real-estate development here is dangerous, but thousands of people live here permanently, and more visit. The islands are shrinking and development creates pollution, which is spilled and spread by severe storms. Although there is no way to fully protect the people or the environment, short of abandoning the islands altogether, dangers can be minimized by planting native vegetation along the coast and building farther from shore.

Thank You to our Conference Committee from:

15 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

Lulur 2

Minimum Wages in Florida Yona Mishanina – Palm Beach State College This work argues about the impact of the minimum wage on lives of Floridians, as well as on the economy as a whole. It explains why minimum wage increase is not a powerful tool to combat the poverty and influence the quality of life of those living below the poverty line.

Hard Times and Boom Times in Florida Brooke Dale, Kevin LaDue, Daniel Montes, Sarah Grant – South Florida Community College Four projects from this fall’s Honors Freshman English I at SFCC. Brooke Dale presents Henry Flagler’s rail- road as a maker of modern Florida tourism, Kevin LaDue gives the reasoning behind Walt Disney’s desire to have complete control over the land on which Disney Would would be built. Daniel Montes gives an overview of the New Deal in the Florida of the Great Depression, and Sarah Grant tells us about the day to day life of the “CCC Boys.”

Phasing Out Pension Plans Isaaca C. Thorpe – Florida A&M University Employers are aware of the fact that a person will not be able to work forever. As per federal laws, employers are responsible for making contributions to employees to insure that they are able to retire after the appropriate time of service. Formerly, employees had the opportunity of looking forward to retirement by just building up time and seniority with their employer, and having a pension to enjoy the remain- der of their lives after they leave the company. However, traditional retirement plans are becoming obsolete. Employers are finding it to be more beneficial to implement defined contribution plans.

16 Saturday—Session 1

Saturday, Session 1 - 9:00 AM to 9:50 AM

Onsen

The Scattering of Israel, a Possibility in the Land of the Rising Sun Kane Magnuson – St. Petersburg College It’s long been thought that all cultures derived from one place. Yet there are many who don’t totally believe that two cultures could have anything in common, or share a common cultural ancestor. Since the time King Nebuchadnezzar, there have been ancient Middle Eastern writers who have spoken of the scattering of Israel. In this project the connections between some of these possibilities of ancient Israelites visitation to Japan will be drawn.

India’s Economic Liberalization: Current and Future Consequences Kaushal B. Vaddiraj – University of Tampa Economic liberalization has propelled India into an elite league of rapidly emerging nations. The political developments preceding the process have had an interesting impact on the societal relations in India. The burgeoning middle class is not only one of the results of liberalization, but also an important factor effecting the direction of development in India. The presentation discusses the relationship between economic reforms and political developments since the 1980s, examining whether the economic reforms will be sustainable in the long run without a radical reworking of the state’s focus on development.

Cuba: The Facts and Myths of our little known Neighbor to the South Eric W. Kahler – University of Tampa Most Americans’ knowledge of the island Cuba has been limited to salsa music, the Cuban Missile Crisis and Fidel Castro. With the recent changes of American travel policy to the island, I -- along with other Uni- versity of Tampa students -- visited the island for ten days and immersed myself in the history and people of La Isle and in the process learned and will share the Cuban cultural cornerstones of Patria, Conciencia and Resolver.

17 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

LaStone 1

FCHC Writing Contest Winners– Documented Research/Critical Thinking Join the winners of the FCHC Writing Contest: Documented Research or Critical Thinking , Freshman/Sophomore and Junior/Senior categories for an extended discussion of their work “The Police and the Priests”: Catholicism and Ideology in Seasmus Deane’s Reading in the Dark Faith Dickens – University of Central Florida

Traces of Slavery Mikhail Elliott– University of Tampa

Transient Student Voting Rights Brett Morrison– University of Central Florida

The Divine Comedy: Dante’s Allegory of Polyphony and Divine Love Rachel Turn – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College

18 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

LaStone 2

Natural Hair: Enlightenment or Fad? Courtney Stewart – Florida A&M University Historically, African American women in the media tended to have long weaves, or relaxed straight hair. Recently, many African American women in the media have been shown with natural curls, or natural looking curly weaves. Other African American women have decided to go natural. While many say they are not strong enough to give up the “Creamy Crack”, others have chosen to grow out their natural hair. The question remains whether this natural phase was sparked by the media, women gathering up their strength and deciding to embrace their natural roots, or women seeking to have healthy hair.

Back to Our Roots Jezreel Davis – Florida A&M University Hair is a subject that deeply affects the daily lives of women all around the world. However, in the black community, hair seems to be a much more prevalent issue. Of the many hair treatments available, relaxer has been the number one product utilized on African American hair to achieve a straightened look. Hair relaxer is a strong chemical containing dangerous alkalis such as sodium hydroxide that is used to straight- en the tight curls present in typical African American hair. The harmful effects of this hair-altering chemical include painful chemical burns, scalp irritation, and even widespread alopecia.

Mechanisms in Chemical Hair Relaxing Kayla Simmion – Florida A&M University Chemical hair relaxing has become one of the most prominent hairstyles in modern America. The ease and manageability of having straight detangled hair provides those with hectic lifestyles and lack of “hair skills,” one less concern to worry about. However, this chemical service has been performed millions of times, yet many are unaware that there is an experiment being conducted on their heads. The interesting aspect of this redox reaction is how it forms curly hair to straight hair by disulfide bond breakage and lanthionine bond creation.

19 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

LaStone 3

Auto-Presentation of Staphylococcal enterotoxin A by mouse CD4+T Cells Charlisa Whyms – Florida Memorial University The currently accepted model for super antigen (SAg) induced T cell activation suggests that SAg, without being processed, can cross link both MHC class II, from Antigen Presenting Cells (APC), and V-B, from T-cell receptor (TCR), initiating nonspecific T-cell activation. This- T cell proliferation induces a massive cytokine release associated with several human diseases. This presentation will examine the importance of this research to increase knowledge about how the immune system in our bodies work to protect against illness.

Synthesis of Amidopyrroles for the Treatment of Type 3 Long QT Syndrome Stephanie Joan Meyers – Florida Southern College I will be presenting organic chemistry research I have done regarding the synthesis of amidopyrrole molecules that are designed to be specific to cardiac sodium channels. These molecules stabilize the inactive state of the channels, which prevents the bursting mechanism associated with late sodium current that leads to prolonged depolarization of heart muscle cells. By preventing late sodium current, these molecules could in turn be used to alleviate the effects of type 3 long QT syndrome, a potentially fatal heart condition characterized by ventricular arrhythmias. By using type 1b antiarrythmic drugs such as ranolazine or lidocaine, I hope to synthesize novel amidopyrrole compounds that will serve the purpose of treating long QT patients

1000 Ways to Die: The Smallest of Organisms Makes the Biggest of Differences Shaena-Rene Robinson – Florida A&M University Bubble Baby syndrome stems from the inability of a gene to function properly, resulting in the inability of the baby to have a functioning immune system. Cerebrovascular diseases are caused by not enough oxy- gen flow into the brain. This may be a result of blood clots blocking the vessels which can lead to a hemor- rhagic stroke. With deadly diseases, the causes may be as simple as the hamburger being one too many, or the cigarette lasting a bit too long. Other causes are simply bad luck, lack of enough protection, or pure happenstance.

20 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

Fango 1

The Relationship between meditation and Academic Performance Warner Squire – Polk State College My research supports my hypothesis that meditation generally enhances academic performance. My theory is that if meditation helps with concentration, it must help with school performance. Using the EBSCO host database tool (PsycArticles), I was able to find research to support my hypothesis. I plan to petition our college for a meditation room. I chose this research project because I suggested beginning a meditation room to the Polk State College Philosophy Club members; I will use my research in the Philosophy Club’s proposal to Polk State College administration.

Liberal Arts and Honors Education Joshua Nawrocki – Seminole State College Plato said that education is a "combination of emotional, social, physical, and spiritual development." Many students may choose to delve into an honors curriculum because it offers them an opportunity to pursue a well-rounded education, as well as the opportunity to learn outside the confines of a classroom or book. In my presentation, I will outline the reasons why we need honors programs and why a liberal arts education can lead to more success in the pursuit of higher education, careers, and a happy life through a greater appreciation for analyzing, understanding, and communicating information and ideas.

The Importance of Being Honest: Examining the Ethics of Honors Students David Tatem – University of West Florida Honors Programs and Colleges demand academic excellence from their students. This excellence is paramount to developing successful minds and building an educated society. However, Honors students are also held to a particular code, or a standard of conduct that is fitting of leading collegiate minds. How should Honors students conduct themselves? Should Honors institutions require codes of conduct? Is this honorable behavior implied? This presentation will raise questions of ethics for a new generation of Hon- ors students and discuss the importance of professional behavior.

21 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

Fango 2

No to Nuclear Power Vanessa Karpf, Joy Victoria Peebles, Maymoona Khan – Seminole State College Nuclear power has been a controversial source of alternative energy for many years. The dangers associated with operating a nuclear power plant include devastating accidents, such as Chernobyl; these dangers outweigh any environmental advantages. Methods for transporting and storing nuclear waste are undeter- mined and no one has discovered a solution to this ongoing problem. It is unreasonable and dangerous to invest time or money pursuing nuclear power. Nuclear power can add fuel to the controversial fire of nuclear weapons, endangering the environment. This ticking bomb robs tranquility from our minds, leaving an overpowering sense of fear in Americans.

Nuclear Power as an Alternative to Oil and Coil Marianne Salcedo-Castro, Christopher Posey, Sagana Amarasinghi, Sonia Mia Diaz – Seminole State College Earth is not indestructible. Eighty-three percent of total power in this country comes from non-renewable resources. The US relies heavily on oil imported from unstable nations. Coal and petroleum account for half the US energy consumption, though both create hazards to social health and the environment that are already evident. Nuclear power can, however, counteract this downward trend. Nuclear power is not only safe and efficient, it will reduce this country’s dependence on unstable foreign powers while reducing the demand for dangerous and nonrenewable sources of energy, providing a healthier and economically- stable future for this nation.

Will the Earth Survive Sang Tran – Broward College The presentation will concentrate on a major concern, “Global Warming,” and give the audience a better understanding about it. In the last 100 years, the world is getting more globalized and industrialized; therefore, trees are cut down, forests are vandalized, and natural resources are used up to build more factories, buildings, just to serve for human’s purposes. However, the consequences that come along with it are not small at all. The idea is to discuss different solutions to solve this problem.

22 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

Lulur 1

Abolishing Capital Punishment: The Death Penalty as an Instrument of Coercion Meridith Wailes, Isabel Griffin – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College According to the Innocence Project, twenty-five percent of the 240 wrongful conviction cases overturned by DNA evidence in the United States involved false confessions. Coercive police tactics often play a role in false confessions. One method in particular – the death penalty – is often used as an inducement; if the suspect confesses, they can avoid the death penalty. This is a promise that police officers have no ability to keep, yet can result in a suspect confessing to a crime that they did not commit. In this presentation, I will argue that the death penalty should be abolished, because it does not serve its purpose of deterring crime and is often used as an instrument of coercion during interrogation.

A Physician's Participation in Capital Punishment: Care Giver or Executioner? Isabel Griffin, Meridith Wailes – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College I will present an argument that physician participation in capital punishment is unethical. According to the American Medical Association Code of Ethics, physicians are prohibited from being present and participating in the death penalty. While being present violates AMA’s Code of Ethics, many states require a physician to be present, and in some cases assist, during executions. In this presentation, I will explore both sides of the argument, but ultimately argue that the only way to solve these issues involving capital punishment is abolishment.

The Ethics of Terrorism Eric Garmon – Gulf Coast State College Acts of terrorism are judged ethically by one’s culture, ethnicity, and religion not the act itself.

23 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

Lulur 2

U.S. Unemployment: Cyclical or Structural? Elizabeth Feustel – Jacksonville University Although the 2007-2009 Recession was declared over by the National Bureau of Economic Research in June 2009, the United States has continued to experience elevated levels of unemployment. During most recessions, unemployment is considered cyclical or following the trend of the business cycle. When unemployment is cyclical, it usually declines back to the “natural” rate of 4-5% once the recession is over; this has not been the case for the U.S. Since unemployment has not returned to the natural rate, economists believe that a structural change has occurred in the economy, yielding structural unemployment. By col- lecting and analyzing data on variables, such as, balance of trade, federal funds rates, education levels, balance of payments, inflation, race and gender between 2000 and 2010, this research was designed to determine whether the unemployment rate is in fact structural.

Victoria’s Secret: A Social Analysis of Victorian Economic Reform Joseph Babadi – Jacksonville University Using literary works, particularly of the British writers, Defoe and Dickens, from the Eighteenth Century and Victorian time periods, I analyzed the criticisms of early economic theories by the prominent economic authors of the time period. Since prominent fiction writers tend to write about what is affecting their culture, their works often offer a unique look at the effects of early theory. The authors, then, essentially im- part to the reader accounts of the social outcomes of the newly developed ideas. Having assumed this allowed me to compare the “utility maximizing” theory outcomes and “actual” outcomes. Creating the models of markets using mechanical variables, economic theory is an exceedingly technical procedure, and yet there are many outcomes, when employing models, that cannot be captured. These outcomes are usually social, and, therefore, are reflected in the works of socially conscious fiction writers from the same time period as the emergence of the theory.

24 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

Lulur 2 (continued)

Consumer Credit and Banking Danny Singh – Seminole State College The presentation will focus on the significance of maintaining a strong credit history. Background information about the consumer reporting agencies, the credit scoring model of the Fair Isaac Corporation, and the different types of loans will be discussed. The purpose will be to motivate students to never default on any kind of loan. Strategies and tips will be shared on how to make the most interest on money saved in deposit accounts such as checking, money market, savings, and certificate of deposit accounts so students can use that money to pay their highest interest loans.

Onsen

Campaign 2012: Civic Engagement and the Presidential Election Eugene Alpert – The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars Florida will have its usual important role in the selection of the next President of the U.S., but will you really have a chance to experience the thrill of the campaign or the excitement of the election? This presentation will explain how, since 1984, The Washington Center has offered college students and faculty the opportunity to be a part of history in the making at the Democratic and Republican national conventions and the presidential inauguration and how you and your institution can be represented at these important events in 2012 and 2013.

Democracy Now and the Importance of Independent News Sources Dominic Homac & Angelica Boudrie- Seminole State College “Information is power. Information is hope. Information is a matter of life and death.” This is the mantra of the president and chief journalist of the independent news organization Democracy Now. In this presentation we will take popular news stories that you think you know and discuss the perversions made to the story and compare it to the facts independent news sources provide on the story. After this presentation, you may not trust your news again.

25 Saturday—Session 2

Saturday, Session 2 - 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM

Onsen (continued)

Executive Privilege Kevin Heckle – Seminole State College After President Nixon’s abuse of the doctrine of executive privilege during the Watergate scandal, the American public and the media have become more critical of the secretive actions that the office carries out. However, the flaws inherent within the doctrine have been present from its first use during the Wash- ington administration. These flaws have been abused most notably during the Eisenhower and Nixon ad- ministrations, but more recent presidents have continued its use in order to conceal information. To reduce future abuse, all three branches of government must work to maintain accountability and strive to maintain an equal balance of power.

Thank You to our Conference Host:

26 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

LaStone 1

Computer Engineering in Entertainment Nkenge Cameron – Florida A&M University For this presentation, I will research the applications of computer engineering in the fields of music, movies, and sports. As college students, we generally enjoy entertainment daily via ipods, the internet, television broadcasts, or other mediums. The technology behind music videos, music production, sports broad- casting and many other forms of entertainment are developed by teams of computer engineers. This presentation should fascinate, inform, and interest the audience by delving into the science behind the production of the entertainment that interests us all. Research will include video editing software technology, accurate tracking devices, and the programming of synthesized instruments.

The Benefits of Integrated Game-Based Learning Jennifer Adams – Seminole State College Many view video games as entertainment at best, and harmful to a child's development at worst. Howev- er, the benefits of these games are not largely recognized, especially within the school system. The methods used in teaching today's youth are outdated and are becoming less effective. Integration of game- based teaching into schools could provide a multitude of positive results including an increase in enthusi- asm towards learning, greater memory retention, and heightened cognitive skills. Electronic gaming may be the key to ensuring the children of today will be successful in the tomorrow’s modernized world of tomorrow.

Welcome to the Next Level Lukas P. Termini – University of Tampa The purpose of this presentation is to analyze the evolution of video games as a form of entertainment. The presentation will discuss the growth of the medium, from simple toy to social media outlet, analyzing public opinion and reaction to video games in American and global cultures. The presentation will be informative in nature and will seek to examine the growth of a new form of artistic expression that has only come into existence in the last 30-40 years.

27 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

LaStone 2

Human Factors in Aviation Christopher Orr – Florida Memorial University Human factors is the study of the interaction between people, machines, methods, and procedures that interface with one another within an environment in a defined system to achieve a set of system goals. In the aviation industry, human factors science is studied extensively to find ways to continually reduce and eliminate human error. This presentation will explore the facets of human factors and the ways in which its study is helping to make air transportation safer.

Approaching Technique before Coupling of Two Spacecraft Rey Carvajal – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College Newton's second law of motion coupled with the principles of kinematics allows for the use of the methods of conservation of momentum and energy to relate force, mass, velocity and time. Using already established equations of motion for particles under a gravitational force, we analyze the motion of two spacecrafts in the same circular orbit approaching each other if one of the craft were to speed up or slow down. The purpose of this paper is to develop the equations that transfer spacecrafts from circular orbit to elliptical orbits with the intention of spacecraft approach. We found that by determining the new speed of the spacecraft, the difference in time periods for both spacecrafts, and the shorter radius vector of the new elliptical orbit the spacecraft will have, that we can represent a table of safe approaches for the spacecraft to take.

Semi-Conductor Lasers Gabrielle Russell – Florida Memorial University Semi-Conductor lasers are considered to be the lasers of the future because of their potential importance to the field of electronics. The scope of this presentation is aimed toward enhancing awareness about semi -conductors lasers, stating its operation processes, applications, and intended advancements.

28 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

LaStone 3

College Student at the Age of 15 Ashley Glantz – Broward College I want to discuss key points centered on being an early admit high school student within the college environment. I will also talk about the effects caused by entering the college world so early, and the mental sustainability one must have to develop the right mindset throughout the course work. I also want to men- tion how my life has changed because of the early admission program, and how it has shaped the way I live today

Students’ Perception of Community Colleges Faith Proper – Palm Beach State College Community colleges are generally stigmatized by the media and society as a whole as "second rate colleges," despite the increasing role of Honors Programs. Although the world at large may have this negative perception, little study has been conducted concerning how the student feel about the institutions they attend. To fill this gap, a research survey was performed concerning how community college students perceive their colleges, the quality of the programs, and their reasons for attending. The results are not what many would believe, and indicate a changing trend in the perception of community colleges as a system.

Rate My Professor: An Accurate Rating System? Catherine Quintana, Giselle Segarro, Ronnie Bray, Joseph O’Neil, Duckonson Joseph, Nathanael Rudolph – Broward College The Honors Student Committee-BC North will be examining both professor and student perceptions of Rate My Professor. HSC will present testimonials from some of the highest rated professors, and some of the lowest rated professors at Broward College. Our organization will also ask a diverse student body if they feel Rate My Professor works and whether or not they would use it. HSC will in addiction be presenting some tips on safely using Rate My Professor, as well as, facts that might startle and surprise users.

29 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

Fango 1

Epifaunal Abundance and Species Richness in Seagrass Beds Sommer L. Kuhn – University of Tampa In my research presentation, I will take a look at a study conducted with my peers on the epifaunal abundance and species richness in sea grass beds at Picnic Island, FL. Specific areas looked into include dominant species numbers and juvenile to adult proportions. I will then be taking a look at some common factors and possible reasons that explain trends found, such as sea grass density, location in the grass bed (exterior vs. interior), food availability, and predation to name a few.

Management of Brown Citru Aphid, Toxoptera Citricidus, using Entomopathogen David Pick – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College Widespread infestations of Toxoptera citricidus were common throughout the Florida citrus industry, from 1995-1998, today native natural enemies, such as Lysiphlebus testaceipes, are effectively managing this pest. Effects of Isaria fumosorosea on this trophic system of aphid, parasitoid, and aphid parasitism were evaluated. Our results are in agreement with similar studies, and recent literature presents some intriguing aspects of entomopathogens as tools for insect pest management.

Capture, Mark, Recapture: A Comparison of the Lincoln-Petersen and Schnable Indexes Luegenia Sherriffe – Florida A&M University For every ecosystem there is a delicate balance between every organism that coexists within that biological environment. To better understand survival instincts, migration patterns, and population density and fluctuations of various organisms, ecologists may use the capture, mark, recapture method by using the Lincoln-Peterson index or the Schnabel Index. Here, I have conducted a controlled experiment using a variety of dried legumes to determine which method is best for successfully and accurately determining population variance. The Lincoln-Peterson Index proved to be more accurate with an error range of 52 than the Schnable index which had an error range of 83.

30 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

Fango 2

Comparative Mythology as a Passage to Abstract Reflection Dr. Janet Haavisto, Joseph Babadi, Ann-Marie Connolly, Elizabeth Feustel & Ashley Kohler – Jacksonville University Interdisciplinary studies are meant to provide students insights into a variety of ways of knowing, thus moving students from the familiar to the less familiar, different, even strange. An important characteristic of an educated person is the ability to entertain ideas, including those that conflict with one’s beliefs and opinions, without feeling threatened. Honors programs must integrate such opportunities into the courses offered. A particularly effective course is comparative mythology. A World Mythology course dealing with myths, legends, and folklore from around the globe and from ancient to contemporary times can stimulate considerable reflection on cultural accommodations of abstract concepts and arguments and lead students to examine their own accommodations to the abstract. Students from a Jacksonville University Honors Seminar in World Mythology and I will discuss the learning and reflections to proceed from such a study I conducted in Fall 2011.

Comparative Mythology as a Passage to the Educated Mind Dr. Janet Haavisto, Joseph Babadi, Ann-Marie Connolly, Elizabeth Feustel & Ashley Kohler – Jacksonville University Interdisciplinary studies are meant to provide students insights into a variety of ways of knowing, thus moving students from the familiar to the less familiar, different, even strange. An important characteristic of an educated person is the ability to entertain ideas, including those that conflict with one’s beliefs and opinions, without feeling threatened. Honors programs must integrate such opportunities into the courses offered. A particularly effective course is comparative mythology. A World Mythology course dealing with myths, legends, and folklore from around the globe and from ancient to contemporary times can stimulate considerable reflection on cultural accommodations of abstract concepts and arguments and lead students to examine their own accommodations to the abstract. Students from a Jacksonville University Honors Seminar in World Mythology and I will discuss the learning and reflections to proceed from such a study I conducted in Fall 2011.

31 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

Fango 2 (continued)

“The Killer in the Backseat”: A Closer Look at Modern-Day Mythology Natalie Harrison & Georgia Howard – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College This presentation will argue the influence of urban legends, common day mythology, on everyday life and will explore the impact of story-telling on common perception and understanding of modern day society and its ties to the past. According to the research of Roland Barthes and the studies of Jan Harold Brun- vand, mythology, an important component of ancient cultures, still plays a dominant role in daily life. While denounced by Auguste Comte in his three stages of the development of human intelligence, mythology, in the form of urban legends, continues to teach us lessons about the world around us, helps us to establish our value systems and continually allows us to entertain, fool or trick our friends.

Lulur 1

A History of Africa’s Longest Running War Imarhia Enogieru & Emily Bauer – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College In this presentation, we will discuss Africa’s longest running war, a 23 year old conflict between the Lord Resistance Army lead by Joseph Kony and the citizens of Uganda and other Central African countries. This humanitarian crisis began with Kony kidnapping innocent children and forcing them to kill and mutilate their countrymen in an attempt to gain control of the Ugandan government. Our analysis serves to spread awareness about the two million people affected by this tragedy, the psychological and physical effects this war has created and the efforts of the international community to bring peace to this volatile region.

Women’s Security in War Sahar Naqqvi – Broward College This presentation will discuss the circumstances concerning women during conflicts by considering recent events in Liberia, Sudan, Bosnia, and Afghanistan. This informative discussion draws from an interdisciplinary approach to showcase excellence in Honors by researching matters such as the displacement, rape, and courage of women as the sometime silent victims of war. In doing so, it will analyze recorded testimonies contributed by mothers, sisters, and wives regarding the hardships and violent events befallen them, while offering an unbiased view concerning this subject in conjunction with the attempt to offer possible remedies.

32 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

Lulur 2

Deaf Culture: What Does It Mean to be Deaf? Kathyrn Skinner-Andrews – Seminole State College What does it mean to be deaf? It is more than simply being unable to hear. Deaf people share a rich, full, and complete culture that is entirely different from the hearing world’s. But just what is culture? How can a disability be a culture? And what is deaf culture like? In this presentation I will discuss three things that de- fine deafness: the unique challenges that deafness poses, the way that hearing perceive the deaf, and the unique cultural identity that the deaf share.

The Story of StoryCorps Daniel Goodridge, Liz Weiss & Yeon Ji Song – College of Central Florida StoryCorps is an organization formed in 2003 to preserve history from a personal perspective. The StoryCorps booth gives people the opportunity to bring a friend or family member to interview them on any aspect of their life story. The- se interviews are then preserved indefinitely in our national archives for future generations to look back on history from an intimate, personal level. This presentation will discuss the origins of StoryCorps and our personal experiences with the program.

33 Saturday—Session 3

Saturday, Session 3 - 11:00 AM to 11:50 AM

Onsen

Rebuilding Relationships in a Technological Age that Seperates Us Austin Mittan– Seminole State College Technology today is meant to bring everyone together. To an extent it achieves its goal, by uniting those who would never have seen or talked to one another before, however it has left in its wake many complications. Relationships and personal ties are lost within the myri- ad of letters in text messages and emails. While communication is faster and easier it does not allow reading of physical gestures essential to normal conversation. Technology gives a false sense of confidence and the words can easily be misconstrued. Personal communication is changing and relationships will either adapt and change or become obsolete.

The Ethical Choice for E-Readeres Rachel Peeples – Gulf Coast State College With the creation of E-books, the world of books is rapidly changing. E-books can be easily purchased and downloaded directly to whatever electronic medium one is using. E-books have a variety of strengths backing up their positive influence. There is no damage to one's health, they are better on the environment and assist in decreasing one's carbon footprint. Some drawbacks of E-books include their ill effects on the publishing industry, potential eye strain, and that not a single E-reader is manufactured in the US. These concerns are logical, but the benefits of using E-books far outweigh the drawbacks.

34 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

LaStone 1

Let Contradictions Prevail! Let One Thing Contradict Another! (Round Table) Chanelle Cox, Emma Forman & Kaushal B. Vaddiraj – University of Tampa RESPONDEZ! is a non-fiction literary journal published annually in the spring semester by Honors Program students at the University of Tampa to showcase excellent Honors research papers, critical analyses, personal essays, supported opinion pieces, or other non-fiction works. The title Respondez! comes from the Walt Whitman poem and is published in the front of every edition of the journal. This year’s editor-in-chief and members of the editorial board will explain the process of creating this campus-wide, respected journal, continuously produced by Honors students since 1982.

LaStone 2

The Mathematical Approach to the Calendar Lauren Thomas – Florida A&M University The Julian calendar was based on a year of 365¼ days, with a leap year every fourth year. However, the length of a solar year is 365.2422 days. This small difference meant that the Julian calendar receded a day from its astronomical norm every 128 years. Jesuit mathema- tician Christopher Clavius amended the scheme for leap years: every 4, except for those marking centuries, which would be leap years only if divisible by 400. We can mathematical- ly solve precisely which day of the week a particular event in history happened on the Gre- gorian calendar, thereby using mathematics to make history intriguing.

35 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

LaStone 2 (continued)

Building with Green Architecture Heather Fox – Seminole State College This presentation will summarize the importance of green architecture with a significant focus on the young Belgian architect, Vincent Callebaut. I will encourage and offer tips for building “greener” and how the smallest changes can make large differences. I intend for people to walk away from this presentation with a better understanding of the power of harnessing the world around us for sustainability. I will share my knowledge of projects being implemented now that are already making large impacts.

A Stem Quintet Jake Jordan, Eric Harrigan, Heather Bloemsma, Paul Cribbs & Rito Melendez – South Florida Community College I. Jake Jordan and Eric Harrigan present “Physics Saves Lives,” an analysis of the torques involved in loading a large commercial excavator onto a flatbed tractor trailer, with videos il- lustrating what can go wrong. A very real, and practical, application of basic principles in physics. II. Heather Bloemsma and Paul Cribbs present “Counterintuitive Birds.” Bloemsma describes the Sandhill Cranes’ “one-chick” policy, which condemns one of two chicks born to each breeding pair to neglect and death; Cribbs shows that fire, usually considered a danger to wildlife, is necessary to Florida Scrub Jay survival, since these birds cannot see their predators in tall and thick scrub. In the absence of natural fire, prescribed burns are required. III. Rito Melendez presents “Hardee County’s Choice.” Working with Dr. Richard Weisskoff of the University of Miami, Melendez investigated the choice facing Hardee Coun- ty: build the local economy on phosphate mining or choose ecotourism?

36 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

LaStone 3

Scholarships and Grants for Any Student Susie Richetti– Valencia College Presentation on finding, applying for, and writing tips for, a variety of grants and scholarships. Information will include Pell Grant, state resources, private industry, not-for- profit sectors, and the philanthropic arena. For students with academic qualifications and/or need based, interest and field specific scholarships, committment reciprication, and more. Presenter will use powerpoint, web screen shots (or live web ac- cess) and handouts.

Poster Presentations: Tips, Tricks and Planning James Rowland – Valencia College What are the steps that make an effective poster presentation? Or even more basically what is a poster presentation and what sets it apart from a Science Fair display board? To help ensure a spot on the program at higher levels, Poster Sessions are often the answer. This presentation will go into design tips and tricks for both informational and scientific research posters from conception through presentation.

Debate: Why it Matters and Why You Are The Only One That is Right Latrell Williams & Alex Weiner – Broward College This presentation's goal is to demonstrate the importance and value of debate and public speaking in our everyday lives. The presentation will begin with a simulated debate. Then, the presentation will continue with a lecture about how to gather important evidence from lengthy studies in a matter of minutes. Also, the lecture will be about the various speaking and debating drills that can be used to improve the clarity and delivery of speeches, and the "on-your-feet" kind of thinking necessary to withstand thorough cross- examination. The presentation will conclude with discussing other practical applications of speaking and debating skills in professional environments.

37 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

Fango 1

Using Community-Based Participatory Research to Improve Health Equity Carolyn Cook – Florida A&M University Community-based participatory research (CBPR) encourages health equity while requiring community involvement. It is believed that CBPR can break obstacles, which can potentially bridge science and practice. An organization known as the 4 Corners Circle of Services Collaborative, developed HIV/AIDS patient care for an American Indian reservation in the Southwest by encouraging community involvement. The study was successful because it required support from local health agencies in order to provide, what the authors identified as “culturally centered” services, which were accredited to the positive outcome of the study. In the future, CBPR can expand the practices for eliminating health disparities.

Perceptions of Body Image Influencing the Behavior of College Students Jennifer Pelfrey – Santa Fe College The purpose of this research project is to understand men and women’s perceptions of body image and how it influences promiscuous behavior as well as overall participation in social interactions.

Educating People on the Impact of HIV/AIDS in Tallahassee, Florida Adedokun Adedoyin – Florida A&M University Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like HIV, HPV, Chlamydia and others can lead to death. In my home of Botswana, a country where there is little education about STDs, 60% of the human population has been infected by HIV. However, even in the United States, there are areas where the rate of HIV rivals that of many underdeveloped nations. This presentation will discuss the prevalence of HIV in the city of Tallahas- see, Florida and the factors that impact the high incidence of the disease. Additionally, this presentation will address ways to combat the incidence of HIV through education and community programs.

38 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

Fango 2

Sex Trafficking: It Happens Here Mary Kent – Gulf Coast State College This research paper focuses on how sex trafficking occurs in the United States. The paper covers how our nation’s culture of tolerance allows for such heinous acts to happen. The things that happen to the victims, how they are taken from families and forced to have sex, are terrible. The traffickers, however, have great motive for wanting to harm people in such a way. Many traffickers have an annual income of about 600,000 dollars. Some of that money goes to the transportation of the women. This paper goes over the ways the women travel, and how they are then used.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T Danielle Bradford – Florida Memorial University Whatever happened to the days when men and women had to conduct themselves as true gentlemen and ladies in order to be respected? When did the characteristics of self-respect change from dainty and chival- rous to skin-tight and foul-mouthed? This presentation will examine the true meaning and constancy of self-respect and the inconstancy of the latter generations.

How Can We Reduce or Prevent Teenage Suicides? Amita RajGuru – University of Tampa This presentation on teenage suicides details both the reasons for it being a serious issue, as well as sug- gesting the ways we can reduce or prevent it altogether. Beginning with facts and figures, the history, causes and impact of teenage suicides on our society will be explained; possible solutions will be discussed; and, using specific criteria, to the most achievable solution for our generation will be recommended.

39 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

Lulur 1

Liminality in the Brave New World Maxwell MacEachern – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College In this presentation I will apply Victor Turner's anthropological concept of liminality to the society of Ald- ous Huxley's Brave New World. While Huxley’s feelies, soma fueled orgies and other hypersexual rituals in which the citizens of the Brave New World participate initially appear to be exemplars of liminality (a ritual state often characterized as "anti-structure" where traditional rules of conduct no longer apply and in which participants are considered in "social limbo" (Turner, From Ritual to Theatre, 24)), I argue that the rituals of the Brave New World not only fail to be examples of liminality but are instead social structures in themselves.

Sexual Ethics in the Lais of Marie de France Andrea Bailey – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College In the course of this presentation, the relationship between Marie de France's justice system for illicit sexual actions and Michel Foucault's Repressive Hypothesis will be explained. Through analyzing the Lais of Guigemar and Bisclavret, the contradictory way in which Marie addresses adulterers will be explained. Fur- thermore, this presentation will provide explanations as to how Marie uses consequences to play on the discourses of sex. Through her use of punishments and reward, Marie is displaying views that would later appear in Michel Foucault's Repressive Hypothesis. As a by-product of this analysis, the audience will be able to recognize the similarities between Marie's views and that of Foucault. Also, this paper will explain what discourses fall under the ideology of sex in the Lais that either lead to punishment or pain.

40 Saturday—Session 4

Saturday, Session 4 - 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM

Lulur 2

External Conflicts that Shaped the Inner Lives of Two Afghan Women Karina Philaphandeth – Honors Institute of Hillsborough Community College Khaled Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns is an engaging novel depicting two Afghan women Mariam and Laila facing the same struggles, such as the Soviet invasion and the Taliban. My presentation includes how Hosseini was influenced to write the novel, how he created such details, and how the historical events throughout the novel affected the content of the story. Most importantly, I will analyze the perspectives of these two Afghan women living in Kabul and their influence upon the lives of women in Afghanistan now.

The Berlin Wall: A Family Divided Oscar Wahlstsrom – University of Tampa As World War II concluded, two superpowers -- the USSR and the USA -- were brought into the same arena: the communist against the capitalist. Then the Cold War started and with it came some of the most horrible human deeds of all time. Apart from the wars, which allowed these two super powers to "battle" each other, there was a profoundly troubling instance which shattered families and destroyed love, freedom and hope. This informative presentation is based on an account from my grandmother who was separated from a sister stuck on the wrong side of the Berlin Wall.

From Oppression to Prominence: Japanese Immigration Experience in Brazil from 1908 to 2011 Paula Campos – St. Petersburg College The Japanese first arrived in Brazil in 1908, escaping from an economic downturn in Japan. Brazil, after the emanci- pation of slaves and decrease in Italian immigration, was searching for a new work-force. Most of the Japanese that arrived in Brazil became laborers on coffee plantations. The majority of Japanese immigrants intended to work for a few years in Brazil, raise money, and then return. But because of the treatment that they received from the landowner, this was nearly impossible. They worked long hours and received low salaries. They were only allowed to buy necessities, like food and clothes, from the stores provided by the landowner. As a consequence, the Japanese quickly got into debt, getting stuck in an endless cycle of never being able to pay off what they borrowed. Future generations of Japanese became leaders in industry, politics, arts, sports and academics. Finally after 100 years, Ja- pan facing a negative birth rate, is inviting Brazilian Japanese to go back to their homeland.

41 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM

LaStone 1

Creating a Successful Honors Ambassador Program Janell Llanes, Angel Leon, & Karina Philaphandeth – Honors Institute of Hillsborough Community College Any honors ambassador program should provide opportunities for the students to become active leaders in their Honors Programs, college communities, and communities at large. We will share the components of our successful Honors Ambassador Program; also, we will provide take-away materials for the audience. HCC Honors ambassadors go through a rigorous application process starting with the written applications that include essays and ending with a day of training. After their selection, they assist the Honors Coordinator recruit in the high schools, assist in the design and implementation of the orientations, and communicate with the new students throughout the summer and the first semester. By assisting new students with their transitions into college and the Honors Institute, the Honors ambassadors can take ownership of creating an active and supportive environment for new students.

A Successful Freshman Year in Honors Jason Harris – Florida Memorial University Freshmen have the hardest time removing themselves from the high school frame of mind and placing themselves in a mindset of adulthood and independence. The Honors Program is extremely vital to Honors freshmen in terms of development and nurturing. This presentation will discuss how Honors freshmen are challenged with maintaining their priorities and focus as they progress towards earning their degree.

So You Want to be a Leader? Dr. Earl E. Paul – Hillsborough Community College Based on a book with the same name, this presentation focuses on basic leadership character traits as welll as some "soft skills" that are vital to today's student leaders. Dr. Paul has presented this session at numerous student confer- ences over the years and has always received positive feedback. Two of the basic premises covered include: (1) leadership is learned, for the most part, and (2) students must read, study, observe others, and take on leadership roles to develop leadership skills. In addition to focusing on the development of these attributes, strong personal character is paramount when leading others and that leadership is a process, not a static experience. If you would like exposure to some leadership basics that you can apply immediately, then this session is for you.

42 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM

LaStone 2

Tissue Engineering: The Physical and Biochemical Interactions between Adult Stem Cells and Extracellular Matrix Jamal Bryant – St. Petersburg College Recently, there have been numerous advances in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which combine methods of materials science and cellular biology, in efforts to engineer replacements for damaged or dis- eased tissues and organs. Central to these methods, is the usage of either the extracellular matrix, an important cell- secreted connective tissue, or of synthetic biomimetic scaffolds, materials designed to mimic the properties of the extracellular matrix. Cells seeded onto these scaffolds ex vivo receive the cues necessary to promote proliferation and differentiation into the appropriate cell or tissue type. Thus, an understanding of the relationship between the extracellular matrix and adult stem cells has been, and will continue to be, crucial to the advancement of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. This presentation will introduce and review some of the biochemical and physical interactions between adult stem cells and the extracellular matrix, specifically those that work to regulate processes such differentiation.

Hazards of Genetic Engineering Zachary Walker – Florida A&M University Genetic engineering is useful to scientists because it gives them a plethora of organisms to manipulate and alter to understand diseases, viruses, or mutations that can either hinder or benefit mankind. Some of the disadvantages of genetic engineering are resistance in species, cross-pollution, biological warfare, and gene manipulation in foods. Society may not be aware of all of the things that are genetically engineered, and are therefore may be unaware of potential dangers. The Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention was created to prevent the production and use of biological weapons; however, it does not govern terrorist groups, cults, or other such entities.

What’s Missing? Amber Crews – Polk State College In my presentation I will explain what a hemispherectomy is, the symptoms that may lead to this procedure, the procedure itself, the tests that are done along with it, any complications that may occur, and the mental and physical side effects that may show in a patient. I use six studies to present some of the findings on hemispherectomy patients and the different results that occurred.

43 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM

LaStone 3

How to Prepare a Conference Presentation (Workshop) James Rowland – Valencia College Is there that one great research project you did for a class, that you wish you could have shared with more people other than your professor or classmate? Presenting at Conference can provide the opportunity for your research to live on beyond just a single class, and pos- sibly explore whole new avenues you would not have thought of. Often students do not take advantage of this opportunity. What we will cover are the basics that go into the conference submission process, tips and tricks for the presentation, and show it’s an opportunity not to pass up.

Program Design By:

44 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM

Fango 1

Cleaning Up Our Waterways: Microbial Degradation in Contaminated Sediments Ashley Kohler – Jacksonville University Microbes can adapt to many different nutrient sources, including pollutants and toxins that are currently affecting many different water systems across our country. The Saint Johns River that runs through Jacksonville, FL is one such polluted river. Microbes from the river are analyzed to determine if they can adapt to utilizing the pollutant, anthracene, as their chief nutrient source. By using anthracene as its food source, the microbes can degrade the toxins in the river, thus remediating the pollution source and cleaning up the river.

Similarities of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans Affecting the Distribution of Bottlenose Dolphins Kayla Villaneuva – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College The Atlantic and Pacific Oceans are two very separate and unique bodies of water. Although they are both geographically and characteristically differentiated, they both successfully support large populations of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncates). If these two extremely separate oceans are able to support populations of the exact same species, similarities between the two must exist. The geographical similarities between the Atlantic and Pacific, such as surface temperature, greatly influence the successful distribution of bottlenose dolphins in both. The similar weath- er patterns, such as large storms and water currents, allow for the bottlenose dolphins to thrive in both oceans. Fi- nally, the abundance of food in these oceans is optimum for this species’ success.

Fish are Friends, NOT Food Tawsha G. Creason – University of Tampa The practice of shark finning, from the purpose of shark finning to the various harmful side effects that go along with the process are examined. This presentation analyzes the process as well as needed legislation and education concerning shark finning, so as to provide a better understanding of a relatively underrepresented problem affecting shark life. This presentation argues against the act of shark finning globally.

45 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM Fango 2

The Celtic Influences on Tolkien’s Middle-Earth Bianca Trifoi – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College Though J.R.R. Tolkien himself denied any affinity for the Celtic peoples and cultures, he was well-versed in their lore, and their existence in his sprawling fantasy world of Middle-Earth goes without doubt. Considering Tolkien's reasoning behind the creation of Middle-Earth - creating a concrete mythology woven from the scattered tales of his be- loved homeland, England - acknowledging and understanding the presence of Celtic elements in his world is pivotal to fully appreciating the detail woven into it. In my presentation, I will analyze the particularly Celtic aspects of Mid- dle-Earth, using my own observations and those of scholars such as Douglass Parker, Terry Gunnell, Marjorie Burns, and Dimitra Fimi.

The Unspoken Feminine Discourse in a James Joyce Novel Nicole Murphy – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College This presentation focuses on the feminine discourse in James Joyce’s A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by arguing with various masculine theories of the novel, which claim that women are ultimately absent from the narrative. Through this absence, many contend, therefore, that women possess no control in the novel. However, this absence of a spoken feminine discourse is what renders the unspoken feminine discourse possible, by exerting unconscious control and manipulation over the lead character, Stephen Dedalus. Ultimately, Stephen is controlled and shaped not by masculinity and paternity, but rather by maternity, whereby arguing that the narrative is actually saturated with an unspoken feminine discourse. Overall, this presentation will focus on the relationship between Stephen and his mother, arguing that his mother asserts more control and influence even in her physical absence throughout his life.

An Analysis of Marriages in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice Ann-Marie Connolly – Jacksonville University Jane Austen’s novel, Pride and Prejudice, portrays the courtship and marriages of four couples: Charlotte & Mr. Col- lins, Lydia & Mr. Wickham, Jane & Mr. Bingley, and Elizabeth & Mr. Darcy. The purpose of this paper is to discuss these different marriages and illustrate the higher virtues of the union between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. In the novel, three of the marriages can be compared to Aristotle’s three differing motivations for friendship: utility, pleasure, and virtue. These comparisons serve to clearly illustrate the differences between strong and weak marriages, or even mercenary and prudent marriages for the reader. The strong union between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy could not occur without maturation and growth between the two individuals. Elizabeth, particularly, grows in virtue and understanding throughout the novel, and her growth can be mirrored with the Cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. 46 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM

Lulur 1

Odissi: An East Indian Temple of Dance Devotion Kimberly Connor – St. Petersburg College A divine dance of devotion, Odissi was originally designed as a dance to please the gods. The Devadasis or “servants to God” were dancers of devotion who lived in the temples of East India and had dedicated their lives to Lord Jagannath. Odissi with its complex rhythms, expressive eye movements, precise hand and foot positions and unusually sensuous pos- tures was seen as too provocative for the ruling British. Odissi was outlawed by the British forcing many of the dancers out of the temples and into the streets. So what happened to this fascinating Classical dance of devotion? In this presentation we will explore Odissis un- derground existence, the journey of the dancer, the expressions of devotion and there meanings in the dance as well as its Renaissance after the fall of the British Raj in 1947.

Coconut Methl Ester: An Analysis of Transesterification of Coconut Oil into Biodiesel Mary Mendoza – St. Petersburg College Biodiesel – a biodegradable and renewable diesel fuel – is made up of monoalkyl esters of triglycerides such as vegetable oils or animal fats. The efficiency of the biodiesel is contin- gent on the degree of saturation of the triglyceride. Lauric acid, a major component of coconut oil derived from Cocos nucifera, is a 12 carbon molecule highly saturated with hydrogen. This physical property is ideal for use as an alternative energy source because each carbon-to-hydrogen bonding stores potential energy. In transesterification, the triglyceride, coconut oil, reacts with methanol to form coconut methyl ester commonly known as coconut biodiesel. This presentation will analyze factors that affect the product yield of biodiesel.

47 Saturday—Session 5

Saturday, Session 5 - 3:00 PM to 3:50 PM

Lulur 2

Cult or Classic? Rebecca Vaclav – University of Tampa This presentation looks at research conducted throughout the past year on cults and their effect university population today. It includes a synthesized definition of destructive cults and their influence on young adults through mind control, or brainwashing. Additionally, it will provide examples of destructive cults and strategies for avoiding the influence of cultic groups on college campuses. This information is important for Honors students attending the Conference whose pursuit for excellence may lead some to join potentially destructive groups.

Coping with the Loss of Religion Daniel Goodridge –College of Central Florida Losing faith can be one of the most daunting issues that people face in their lives. Religion offers much more than the promise of eternal life. It provides a common bond around which people develop strong interpersonal and social relationships . This presentation discusses what happens when one's beliefs no longer conform to the prevailing religious views of their family and community.

The Construction of White Racial Identity throughout American History William Lowrey – Palm Beach State College This presentation will focus on how white racial identity has evolved throughout American history to its current iteration. It will outline the social and economic pressures that influenced the definition of race in America, and how from the Thirteen Colonies to the election of President Obama white racial identity has been a privilege that was viciously protected and only grudgingly expanded.

48 Saturday—Session 6

Saturday, Session 6 - 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM

LaStone 1

The Four Stages of Team Building (Roundtable) Lukas P. Termini, Sommer Kuhn, Tawsha Creason, & Jillian Gempel – University of Tampa This presentation will focus on detailing the four stages of team building: Forming, Storm- ing, Norming and Performing. As a team is formed and learns to work together, the team members experience these different stages in a multitude of ways. These stages are not necessarily linear; in fact, oftentimes groups find themselves fluctuating between the various stages as they attempt to achieve their goals. Through group discussion, the executive members of the Honors Council of the University of Tampa will explain how each stage re- lates to group cooperation and cohesion, providing examples and personal experiences throughout.

POSTER SESSION—Executive Meeting Center Hallway

Digital Pens: Our Handwriting in Digital Evolution Edgar Castro – Broward College Digital pens have emerged to efficiently improve the way information is written and shared. The introduc- tion of this new gadget has led to new innovative and efficient, time-saving changes in hospitals, firms, agencies, schools, journalism and more. With an established market at the international level, digital pens have become a hidden secret of productivity. With different designs, modes, prices, and accompanying software, digital pens can match any individuals’ specific needs and use. Learn how they work, see the possibilities, and learn how a digital pen might benefit you.

49 Saturday—Session 6

Saturday, Session 6 - 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM

POSTER SESSION—Executive Meeting Center Hallway

Glamourizing Sex Rafaela Salinas & Sergine Bourdeau – Broward College In our poster presentation we will be introducing the hit series Sex and the City. We will be analyzing the show’s audience (age, sex, class) based on statistics. We will also be analyzing the change in perspective of the controversial topic (sex) being exposed on television throughout different decades including the present. We will also depict how glamourizing sex with multiple partners seems to be accepted by general au- diences.

The Political Science of Students Elisabeth Sanchez & Edgar Castro – Broward College Our research poster will present the results of surveys administered pre and post lectures on American politics and party affiliations. Our purpose is to see if party preferences and/or political views changed after attending the symposium. It is our hope that the symposium and the survey results will encourage students to become more politically active.

Living Off the Land Catherine Quintana & Ana Correa – Broward College Catherine Quintana and Ana Correa will be presenting a poster on the simple, cost effective, and eco- friendly manner of growing your own vegetable/fruit garden. Anna and I will demonstrate different ways to grow your own garden even without fertile soil in your backyard. We will delve deeper into how these processes are used all around the world by native peoples, as well as, people trying to solve the hunger crisis in third world countries.

50 Saturday—Session 6

Saturday, Session 6 - 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM

POSTER SESSION—Executive Meeting Center Hallway

The Effect of the RNA Binding Protein HuR on the Growth of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cell Line Tamieka Atkinson – Florida A&M University For women diagnosed with breast cancer there is a 23.4% 5-year survival rate for distant cancer metasta- sis. Understanding the processes that allows breast cancer cells to grow should aid in developing diagnos- tic and/or therapeutic modalities. HuR, an RNA binding protein, is a member of the embryonic lethal ab- normal vision (ELAV)/Hu protein family. HuR regulates the stability and translation of target mRNAs, thereby influencing regulation of cell growth and differentiation. To explore the role of HuR, we utilized asub- clone of the MDA-MB-231 triple negative breast cancer cell line that specifically metastasizes to the lungs (Lung Metastatic 2, LM2).

A Short-Term Evaluation of Phytoplankton Communities and Environmental Conditions at Two Indian River Lagoon Inlets Kelsey Doyle, Sabine Alshuth & Matt Brim – Indian River State College The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Phytoplankton Monitoring Network is a research- based program monitoring phytoplankton composition and environmental conditions in coastal waters. This monitoring study focuses on phytoplankton abundance and coastal conditions at the Sebastian and Fort Pierce inlets in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL). The IRL is a warm-water ecosystem, providing nutrient rich habitats supporting phytoplankton biodiversity. Short-term evaluations of phytoplankton communities provide an opportunity to analyze the abundance of species as compared to water temperature, salinity, and tidal stage. Monitoring in the IRL serves as an ideal pedagogic vehicle to explore the interrelationships between humans and coastal ecosystems.

51 Saturday—Session 6

Saturday, Session 6 - 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM

POSTER SESSION—Executive Meeting Center Hallway

The Bioaccumulation of Copper (Cu) by the Eastern Oyster (Crassostrea Virginica) Corwin Andre McCammon—Indian River State College The Eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica is a known bioaccumulator of environmental toxins, including heavy metals and other pollutants derived from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Sediment toxicity testing in the Indian River Lagoon have previously found that levels of Copper (Cu) in the sediment in these areas are well above Sedi- ment Quality Assessment Guidelines (SQAG). This Microtox® broad-spectrum toxicity bioassay studied the rate of bioaccumulation of Copper (Cu) in the Crassostrea virginica, and exposed separate groups of oysters to a gradient of Cu levels over a 14 week period. The results of the study will be used to better understand the correlation between the levels and duration of Cu exposure, and accumulation of Cu in the tissue of Crassostrea virginica in the field.

Isolation and Characterization of Endophytic Colonizing Bacteria from Two Varieties of Sugarcane Mahru Malekiha & Mahsa Malekiha– Miami Dade College Endophytic bacteria occupy internal tissue of plants without causing damage to their hosts. A total of 30 bacterial endophytes were isolated from the internal tissue of sugarcane stems from varieties SP701143 and CP440101. All the isolates were screened for gram reaction, motility, and tested for their antifungal activity against Rhizophus sto- lonifer. There was a large variation in colony morphology. The bacteria communities belonging to CP440101 showed a high dominance of gram-positive bacilli, among them actinomycete-like organisms. CP440101 showed a higher occurrence of strains with antifungal activity in comparison to SP701143. The finding forms a basic for further studies on the physiological activity, nitrogen-fixing ability and plant growth promoting substances in endophytic bacteria in sugarcane.

Evaluating Three Different Forms of Sustainable and Renewable Energy: Woody Biomass, Ethanol and Cellulosic Algae Erica Laboissoniere – Santa Fe College Given diminishing fossil fuel resources as well as the national desire to become less dependent on foreign oil, Ameri- ca must thoroughly explore and implement alternative energy technologies, including biomass. Fuelwood, charcoal, manure, crop residues (lignocellulosic biomass), wood waste from logging, processing wastes from paper and pulp mills, some components of municipal waste, and crops specifically grown for energy (energy crops) are major sources of biomass energy today. A promising new biomass product is cellulosic ethanol from algae.

52 Saturday—Session 6

Saturday, Session 6 - 4:00 PM to 4:50 PM

POSTER SESSION—Executive Meeting Center Hallway

The Forest through the Trees Kristen Brown – St. Petersburg College The Forest through the Trees- 2005 (Acrylic and oil crayon on plywood) This painting is an exploration of American Abstract Expressionism. It synthesizes Jackson Pollock’s splatter technique and Lee Krasner’s use of bold colors and lines, most specifically seen in their works Number 8 and Polar Stampede (respectively). It is four feet by eight feet and separated into three parts. Each part is to be viewed individually then seen as a whole to empha- size the splatter and bold lines individually as “trees”, then demonstrate how the two function together to form the entire “forest.”

Synthesis of Amidopyrroles for the Treatment of Type 3 Long QT Syndrome Stephanie Joan Meyers – Florida Southern College I will be presenting organic chemistry research I have done regarding the synthesis of amidopyrrole molecules that are designed to be specific to cardiac sodium channels. These molecules stabilize the inactive state of the channels, which prevents the bursting mechanism associated with late sodium current that leads to prolonged depolarization of heart muscle cells. By preventing late sodium current, these molecules could in turn be used to alleviate the effects of type 3 long QT syndrome, a potentially fatal heart condition characterized by ventricular arrhythmias. By using type 1b antiarrythmic drugs such as ranolazine or lidocaine, I hope to synthesize novel amidopyrrole compounds that will serve the purpose of treating long QT patients.

53 Saturday—Movie Night

Come join us for a Movie night in LaStone 1-3 from 8:30 PM—10:00 PM !

54 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM

LaStone 1

Our Annual Trip to Harvard (Roundtable) Kaushal B. Vaddiraj, Andrea Morris, Danielle Da Cosate, Kristine Zambito, Camil- la Chebet, Chanelle Cox, Mikhail Elliott, Abraham Rahmanizadeh, & Emma For- man – University of Tampa University of Tampa students who, just a week ago, were delegates representing the nation of Nicaragua at the fifty-eighth annual Harvard National Model Unit- ed Nations will share the insights and experiences they have so recently gained. HNMUN brought together 3,000 university students from over 35 nations throughout the world in order to debate the most pressing issues that face the international community. As delegates they organized, researched, strategized and honed their diplomatic and oratorical skills to successfully represent their assigned country. They’ll tell you how they did it.

Visit the Booth and learn more about:

55 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM

LaStone 2

The Progression of Pregnancy Nellena Adekoya – Florida A&M University I performed research regarding women's health at Grady Memorial Hospital. The main focus was the progression of pregnancy. I learned the practices surrounding prenatal care and about emergency situations that are possible prior to delivery. I witnessed many birthing techniques, including cesarean sections. I also learned about post-partum care and prevention of pregnancy. At the conference I would like to show a presentation that will inform men and women of important things to consider before, during, and immediately after pregnancy. I would like to raise awareness of the services necessary for delivering a healthy baby within a hospital setting.

In Vitro Fertilization: A Brave New World Ken DeMoya – Seminole State College Infertility has been an obstacle in the lives of couples since the beginning of humankind. With advancements in technology, in vitro fertilization has become a more widespread solution in recent years. In 1978, Dr. Robert Edwards and Dr. Steptoe were accredited with the first successful human in vitro fertilization which brought forth the first child conceived outside of the womb. Nearly thirty years later, Edwards was awarded the 2010 Nobel Prize for physiology and medicine for the development of this procedure. My presentation will discuss the history of in vitro fertilization along with health risks to couples and their off- spring.

Adolescent ACL Damage Emily Bauer – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College In the past twelve years, researchers and physicians have discovered a 400% increase in the number of tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the meniscus in adolescents. Studies have also shown that high school girls are six times more likely than their male counterparts to suffer from an ACL rupture. As a seventeen year-old female gymnast, I too tore my ACL and meniscus. My analysis of the contributing anatomical, neuromuscular, hormonal, and societal factors will demonstrate the increased likelihood for this devastating injury as well as cover methods to prevent an ACL tear in the first place.

56 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM LaStone 3

Mona Lisa of the North: The Dutch Renaissance Caroline Sibley – Polk State College Mona Lisa of the North is an informative presentation on the background and culture of Holland during what is known as the Dutch Renaissance, from the late sixteenth to early eighteenth centuries. Focusing on painting, the presentation focuses particularly on the masters Vermeer and Rembrandt, and their surrounding genres. Composed largely of images with little text, the presentation will be a projected Powerpoint slideshow. Works such as Ver- meer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and Rembrandt’s “The Jewish Bride” will be included, as well as less-known paint- ers such as Jacob van Loo and their notable paintings.

Branding the Band: Creating the Identity Design of the Polygons Erin Feldman – Jacksonville University My art is about making my mark on the world, bringing what is inside my imagination out. My purpose in this series was not only to create a brand, which is prominent and attractive, but also to depict my aesthetics and the client’s identity. A graphic designer’s goal is to create works that focus on the communication of a message. Brand is the image of a company in the mind of the consumer. For this piece of work, I created a branding design for the musical group, the Polygons. The Polygons’ music is a fusion of jazz with modern indie rock, mixing the old with the new. By incorporating instruments such as the saxophone and keyboard with the guitar and bass, the Polygons musicians have created a sound exclusively their own. Through research of the definition of brand, emotional branding, and branding strategies, as well as how to market bands.

The Art of Perception Leah Blair – Jacksonville University In The Philosophy of Composition, by Edgar Allan Poe, he stated,” I prefer commencing with the consideration of an effect . . .” There have been people who believed art, when constructed by an artist, had an intent that they wanted to convey precisely to an audience. Then there have been those who believe art is very subjective. An artist might have ad intent, but it was open for interpretation by the audience or spectators. Taking an individuals past into consideration, there has never been a case that a spectator could have had the same exact idea about art that the artist had. According to the author Oscar Wilde, “all art is at once surface and symbol. Those who go beneath the surface do so at their peril. Those who read the symbol do so at their peril. It is the spectator, and not life, that art really mir- rors.” In my senior choreography dance, this is the exact topic I explored. Art may be drawn, written, choreographed or composed by an artist but once observed or heard, that art becomes a part of the spectator or audience. But what is the point at which art becomes the spectators’?

57 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM

Fango 1

NCAA and Paying Student Athletes Ashley Gross – Florida Memorial University The NCAA is currently debating whether they should pay student athletes to play in their respective sports. The NCAA by-laws states that student athletes are not allowed to accepts any gifts or money from sports agents. But the NCAA and the schools are steadily profiting from these athletes. This presentation will discuss whether or not student athletes should be paid by the NCAA.

Education and Black Males Johnson Jean – Florida Memorial University According to the Council of the Great City Schools, black male students are almost twice as likely as white males to drop out of school. And in some big Amer- ican cities, the dropout rate is around 50 percent. This presentation will address how important it is for African American males to receive an education in Ameri- ca. It will examine the cause of why the social status of males is slowly decreasing in the eyes of society.

58 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM

Fango 2

Psychology in Modern Films Emi Tautiva– Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College Psychological concepts can be applied to a wide range of topics because they concern the way individuals think, speak, act, and interact. As with any new skill, the best way to retain information is to put it into practice. In this presentation we will learn several psychological vocabulary terms, and put them into practice by examining their function in modern movies. By examining the psychological terms in the context of modern movies, we can expect to have a better understanding of their meanings and real-life applications. The intent of this presentation is to show one of the many practical functionalities of psychological concepts.

Cultural Events Depicted in Film Clare Ikeguchi – Seminole State College Historical and cultural events are often depicted in films that are love stories. My presentation will discuss two examples. The film Casablanca was released in the midst of the Second World War in 1943 and it tells a love story in the context of World War II. The film Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner from the 1960s depicts interracial love and shows how a couple overcomes the constraints of society at the time.

The Occupy Wall Street Movement Leah Sandler – Seminole State College The Occupy Wall Street movement has brought the conflict between free expression and time, place and manner restrictions to the forefront of the American consciousness. Mayor Bloomberg of New York City evicted protesters in Zuccotti Park on grounds that public safety and health were at risk. According to Heffron v. ISKON (1981) “restrictions are approved provided that they are justified without reference to the content, they serve a significant governmental interest, and in doing so they leave open ample alternative channels for communication of the information.” I will examine Bloomberg's reasoning and explain its congruency with the Heffron test.

59 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM Lulur 1

Of Yeast and Men: Enzymes that Slow Aging Christina Turn – Florida Atlantic University Harriet Wilkes Honors College Age-related, degenerative illnesses, like Alzheimer’s disease, pose increased threats to the lifestyles of the elderly. Botta, Turn, Quintyne, and Kirchman have established a link between Fet3p and superoxide dis- mutase (SOD), two antioxidant enzymes in common bread yeast. These enzymes prevent debilitating aging in eukaryotic cells. Utilizing life span analyses, the Botta team has discovered that iron or copper supple- mentation of yeast can activate Fet3p and lengthen the cells’ lives, even when SOD remains nonfunction- ing. Since human cells possess ceruloplasmin, an analogue of Fet3p, this discovery could contribute to future medications to slow or stop age-related cellular degradation.

Using Tracheobronichial Casts to Better the Fundamental Education of Human Gross Anatomy for Medi- cal Students Darius Horne – Florida A&M University Medical students studying human gross anatomy often have difficulty visualizing the internal three- dimensional structure of organs and the pattern of distribution of blood vessels as well as understanding the orientation and spatial relationships of the different organs. The Plastination Lab at the University of Michigan has taken the steps to solve the problem. Plastination is the process of dissecting a human organ and making it plastic and safe to the touch. In this work, silicone casts of a tracheobronchial tree is made from an embalmed organ that was cleaned, dissected, injected with silicon, and macerated to yield resili- ent, anatomical replica.

The Genetics of Hyperthermia of Anesthesia Martika Moss – Florida A&M University Approximately 1 in 50,000 people are diagnosed with hyperthermia of anesthesia. Discovered in 1960 by Dr. Denborough and Dr. Lovell, it was originally thought to be associated with a high mortality rate since the cause was unknown and only minimal treatment was available to help patients. Also known as malignant hyperthermia, the disease is a severe reaction to particular drugs often used during surgery, particularly in response to anesthetic gases. As an inherited autosomal dominant trait, malignant hyperthermia is related to variations in the RYR1 and CACNA1S genes.

60 Sunday—Session 7

Sunday, Session 7 - 8:30 AM to 9:20 AM

Lulur 2

Building an Honors College through a Grassroots Community Kim Huston Stingo, Christine Murphy, Jonathan Murphy, & James Rowland – Palm Beach State College Presented by Honors Student Advisory Council representatives from the Dr. Floyd F. Koch Honors College at Palm Beach State College, the goal of this workshop is to share ideas and strategies that both faculty and students can implement to continue building their Honors programs. A brief overview will be given of various successful two year and four year honors colleges and honors programs. An analysis of the current state of Dr. Floyd F. Koch Honors College at Palm Beach State College will be presented of how it is growing, what has worked, and challenges faced. This workshop will focus on creating a community between faculty and students that fosters growth in areas of recruitment, retention, support and graduating Honors students. Time will be scheduled for open discussion for those in attendance share ideas with the presenters and one another.

Visit the Booth and learn more about:

61 Thank You !

A Special Thank You to:

Sunlure Advertising Agency - Conference Bags James Rowland - Conference Logistics & FCHC Webmaster Tahsin Nabid - Doug Ryan Consulting Betty Dente - Honors College Associate Admin. Assistant Faculty/Staff & Student Moderators from Palm Beach State College Palm Beach State College Honors Student Volunteers

62 Hotel Map

63 Notes

______

64 Notes Conference Host:

______www.palmbeachstate.eduwww.palmbeachstate.edu 65

Conference Host: