Eight APSU researchers present at Posters at the Capitol

By: Colby Wilson February 26, 2024

APSU student Yuriy Holovchak presents research to State Sen. Bill Powers on Feb. 14 during Posters at the Capitol, an annual showcase for STEM students across Tennessee. | Photo by Colby Wilson.

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - Eight student researchers from Austin Peay State University’s College of STEM and Middle College presented in front of lawmakers and legislators at the annual Posters at the Capitol event on Feb. 14 in Nashville.

In addition to showing off their work to peers from other state institutions, these standout students presented their research to state Sen. Bill Powers and state Rep. Jeff Burkhart. Austin Peay Provost Maria Cronley and Dr. Karen Meisch, the dean of the College of STEM, were also in attendance, and the event featured a morning photo op and Q&A session on the Capitol steps with Gov. Bill Lee.

Gov. Bill Lee takes a group picture with student researchers, including eight from APSU, on Feb. 14 during Posters at the Capitol. | Photo by Colby Wilson.

“I am immensely proud of our students presenting their groundbreaking research not only to experts within their disciplines, but also to our state politicians and community,” Meisch said. “The dedication, intellect and passion from these students and the faculty they have worked with on these projects serve as a testament to the transformative power of the experiences they have received in the College of STEM at Austin Peay. As they showcase their innovative solutions and ideas, they not only shape the future of their respective fields but also inspire generations to come.”

Posters at the Capitol is an annual event where undergraduate students from across the state who are studying science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) can share their research projects with lawmakers at the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville. The event allows students to display their research and engage with policymakers to showcase the significant impact of their work on the state’s economy and future.

APSU student Alexandra Baum presents research on Feb. 14 during Posters at the Capitol, which allows STEM students from across Tennessee to engage with peers and lawmakers. | Photo by Colby Wilson.

Posters at the Capitol seeks to bring young research students into this environment early and provide a platform to elevate their work and help them gain confidence in presenting high-concept scientific ideas. This year, Austin Peay’s contingent included a Middle College student — Autumn Schneider — who participates in the PEER Program (pairing Middle College students with faculty in the College of STEM for research projects) and freshman Samuel Whitaker, who participates in Austin Peay’s STEM Scholars program.

Kelly Pitts, the assistant director of Austin Peay’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs and the primary organizer for the event at the University level, said the experience is invaluable for students. It allows them to make connections in their field and with influential figures in the region, all of whom can help chart a path for career growth and innovation.

“The students at this event are typically your higher-achieving STEM students,” Pitts said. “Getting into a room with counterparts at other locally-governed institutions across the state is something they don’t often get to experience. It puts everyone together to talk about something they have in common, which is their research and research interests.”

Since the students at Posters at the Capitol often have similar goals and aspirations, Pitts said the event offers a significant opportunity for networking.

“The connections made today can potentially lead to employment or internship opportunities, and meeting with other students and researchers across the state can make grad school connections,” she said. “It’s a door-opening opportunity they may not otherwise get.”

APSU student Trinity Mobley shakes hands with Dr. Maria Cronley, the University’s provost, on Feb. 14 during Posters at the Capitol. | Photo by Colby Wilson.

For Trinity Mobley, a senior whose research focused on the antimicrobial properties of soursop and its implications on nontraditional medicine, Posters at the Capitol was a different opportunity. She had previously presented research at the Tennessee Academy of Science but said the experience at the Capitol offered a more in-depth and intimate chance to share her work.

“This is more on a personal level,” she said. “It’s more detailed and in-depth. This allows us to better explain our purpose in doing research, beyond doing it to go on in higher education or get into medical school. It’s an opportunity for me to put myself out there and showcase my research.”

Austin Peay’s representatives at the 2024 event were Mobley, Schneider, Whitaker, Alex Baum, Michael Graff, Yuriy Holovchak, Matthew Kautz, Jair Martinez and Bailey Shedden. Many of these students will also present their findings at the Research Symposium on April 3 at the Morgan University Center or during the College of STEM's Innovation Experience on April 18.