2025 SRSU Student Symposium – Virtual Presentation Schedule
Thursday, April 10th, 2025
Click on a Session Time (left row of the schedule below) to jump down the page and view the Presentation Abstracts, Presenter Videos, & Session Recordings for that Session Time.
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SRSU Virtual Symposium Spotlight Event: Welcome and Keynote Introduction – Dr. Sumantra Sengupta |
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| Session Time |
Virtual Room A | Virtual Room B | ||
| 1:00-1:20 |
Presenter: Rosario Cordova |
Presenter: Gannon Moore Moderator: Dr. Jessica Velasco (Political Science) Title: “Impact of Collectives in the Big 12″ (start: 1pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room B Session Feedback Form |
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| Presenter: Nicole Dickan Moderator: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom (Education) Title: “Denning Chronology of Black Bears in West Texas” (start: 1:30pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
Presenter: Paul Stadelman Moderator: Dr. Jessica Velasco (Political Science) Title:“Market Research: Engagement Levels and Satisfaction Rates of Sul Ross Alumni“ (start: 1:30pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room B Session Feedback Form |
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| 2:00-2:20 | Presenter: Maria Tellez Moderator: Dr. Melissa Wesney (Education) Title: “Online Learning: A Pilot Study on the Effectiveness of Remote Dual Enrollment in Rural Locations” (start: 2pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
No Room B 2:00pm Session Scheduled |
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| 2:30-2:50 | Presenter: Jessika Ledezma Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller (Education) Title: “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Training for Small Business Developments” (start: 2:30pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
No Room B 2:30pm Session Scheduled |
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| 3:00-3:20 |
Team Presenters: Autumn McFadden, Kelsey Pavelick, Robin Alvarez Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis (Literature) Title: “Recognizing Alpha Zeta Members’ Achievements: Attending the Sigma Tau Delta Convention” (start: 3pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Extended Time: 3:00pm-3:50pm Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
No Room B 3:00pm Session Scheduled |
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| 3:30-3:50 | 3pm Session Continues |
No Room B 3:30pm Session Scheduled | ||
| 4:00-4:20 | Presenter: Ricardo Mendez Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray (Education) Title: “Texas-Mexico Border Digital Literacy Among Middle School Teachers” (start: 4pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
Team Presenters: Paris Cantu, Cheryl Kantola Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis (Literature) Title: “Margaret Fuller, Transcendental Travel, Education, and Feminism“ (start: 4pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Extended Time: 4:00pm-4:50pm Virtual Room B Session Feedback Form |
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| 4:30-4:50 | Presenter: Alma Rodriguez Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray (Education) Title: “Artificial Intelligence in HR Onboarding In The Banking Industry” (start: 4:30pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
4pm Session Continues |
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| 5:00-5:20 | Presenter: Jesse Gaytan Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray (Education) Title: “Bridging Law and Business: My Journey from Criminal Justice to an MBA” (start: 5pm) CLICK HERE TO ATTEND SESSION Virtual Room A Session Feedback Form |
No Room B 5:00pm Sessions Scheduled |
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| 5:30-5:50 | No Room A 5:30pm Sessions Scheduled |
No Room B 5:30pm Sessions Scheduled |
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Noon – 12:50pm Symposium Spotlight Event – Welcome and Virtual Symposium Keynote Address
Noon-12:50pm / SRSU Virtual Symposium Spotlight Event
Welcome & Keynote Introduction – Dr. Sumantra Sengupta
Dean of SRSU International College of Business
Keynote Speaker – Earnest Jones
Earnest is a 2017 SRSU alumnus and 2023 SRSU Distinguished Young Alumni Award who is on the Board of Directors for Roy Mass Youth Alternatives, and currently works in healthcare sales, specializing in pharmaceutical and medical devices.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIRTUAL KEYNOTE ADDRESS RECORDING
Keynote Bio:
Earnest Jones is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of perseverance. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1990 as the eldest of three children, his life took a dramatic turn in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina separated him from his family. After being rescued by helicopter and taken to the Superdome, he endured a week of uncertainty before being evacuated to an Air Force base in Oklahoma. Through sheer determination, he navigated his way to Baton Rouge, where a youth pastor helped reunite him with his family in San Antonio.
Despite facing the challenges of being in foster care, Earnest excelled academically and athletically. He attended Boerne High School and became a varsity football player, later making history at Samuel V. Champion High School as the first player to score a touchdown for the school. His drive led him to Sul Ross State University, where he became the first in his family to earn a college degree, graduating with a bachelor’s in Communication Studies in 2013.
During his undergraduate years, Earnest stood out as a leader, serving as president of the Black Student Association, an Upward Bound mentor, and a resident assistant. He was named Student of the Year in Communication Studies, Man of the Year, and was a two-time recipient of the prestigious Ronald E. McNair Scholarship. His academic excellence earned him back to back top poster presentation awards at the National Communication Conference. In 2017, he furthered his education at SRSU, earning a Master’s in Business Administration.
Professionally, Earnest built a successful career in healthcare sales, specializing in pharmaceutical and medical devices. Currently, as a Clinical Liaison BioPlus Infusion Pharmacy, he plays a critical role in ensuring immunocompromised patients in in South Texas receive life-saving treatments. His commitment to service extends beyond his career—he was appointed to the Board of Directors for Roy Mass Youth Alternatives in 2021, giving back to the very organization that once supported him as an at-risk youth. Earnest received the SRSU Distinguished Young Alumni Award in 2023.
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1:00 – 1:20pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
1:00-1:20pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom (Education)
Presenter: Rosario Cordova
Moderator: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom
Title: “Restorative Practices in Education”
Virtual Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Undergraduate
Abstract: In 2023-2024, Texas schools suspended about 400,000 students. This punitive practice has a negative impact on students’ academic performances. Furthermore, suspensions promote alienation from school and are often associated with an increased risk of future criminal activity. Suspensions also disproportionately impact minority students. When students are suspended, they may have lower self-esteem and may be less likely as adults to fully engage with their communities. In the 1970’s, restorative practices for positive classroom management began to be implemented in our public-school systems. Drawing upon the concept of “restorative justice” from our judicial system, restorative practices promised to heal both perpetrator and victim. In EDSR 4322 Classroom Management, we have been researching restorative practices that future teachers can use in the classroom. There are many restorative practices, and our presentation highlights four practices that can be used to help students be successful in a positive classroom environment.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
1:00-1:20pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator: Dr. Jessica Velasco (Political Science)
Extended Time: 1:00pm-1:50pm
Presenter: Gannon Moore
Moderator: Dr. Jessica Velasco
Title: “Impact of Collectives in the Big 12″
Presentation: Pre-recorded moderated student group (4+) Presentation with live follow-up – Undergraduate
Abstract: In 2021, after the NCAA v. Alston Supreme Court decision, states and universities were left to figure out how best to manage Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). Those who pay attention to the world of collegiate athletics have been nervous and curious about how these changes will impact collegiate athletics. Studies are just starting to come out, although assessing the impact of NIL policies is difficult due to the patchwork of policies and laws across the country. One largely unknown component of the NIL space is the collective. This study seeks to shed some light on collectives, their history, their role, and the relationship of these collectives to other variables and changes in the collegiate athletics space.
To make the study scope manageable, the focus will be on BIg 12 schools, which contain both public and private institutions from several states, including those with and without NIL laws. This will allow for a comparison of the relationship of the collectives to a number of school and state variables.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
1:30 – 1:50pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
1:30-1:50pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom (Education)
Presenter: Nicole Dickan
Moderator: Dr. Jeanne Qvarnstrom
Title: “Denning Chronology of Black Bears in West Texas”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: Black bears started naturally recolonizing West Texas in the 1980’s after being extirpated by the 1950’s. Previous research on this population was restricted to public lands and further limited by the tracking technology available at the time. As a result, little is known about their ecology and denning behavior. Since denning is essential for energy conservation, thermoregulation, and parturition in bears, a baseline understanding of their denning behavior is crucial for conservation and management. We defined den sites as areas bears spent more than 6 days within a 135 m radius area. We identified den sites by visually examining GPS points on satellite imagery or by conducting field visits post-den emergence. We calculated denning duration as the time between the first and last day at the den site. Denning durations were highly variable between individuals, sexes, and years. In 2023, the average denning duration was 45 days ± 16.7(SD), and the one female collared during that year denned for 88 days. Den entrances occurred between January 7th and February 23rd, and emergences occurred between March 2nd and April 9th. In 2024, males denned for an average of 70 days ± 30.2, and females denned for an average of 123 days ± 19.0. Male den entrances occurred between December 7th and February 10th, and emergences occurred between February 26th and April 8th. Knowledge of denning chronology in this newly recolonizing population provides important insights for management, the effects of changing climactic conditions, and potential adaptations to this unique desert ecosystem.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
1:30-1:50pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator: Dr. Jessica Velasco (Political Science)
Presenter: Paul Stadelman
Moderator: Dr. Jessica Velasco
Title: “Market Research: Engagement Levels and Satisfaction Rates of Sul Ross Alumni”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: This study explores the concept of value and how it relates to alumni engagement, or potential engagement, of Sul Ross alumni. Similar surveys of alumni that report being “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied” with their student experience are 4 times more likely to have donated to their alma mater than their “neutral” counterparts and 5 times more likely than alumni who were “not very” or “not at all satisfied” with their student experience. Alumni who indicate a sense of current connection are 23 times more likely to donate when compared to those who indicate feeling disconnected (68%) make charitable gifts to any nonprofit. Engagement levels such as volunteering, and alumni associations also greatly impact alumni giving. The research was conducted using a simple 12 question satisfaction survey, which includes a survey of demographic, post graduate satisfaction, engagement levels and potential engagement interest. The results can indicate if alumni value their alma mater and will serve in an engagement capacity for the alumni and development offices. One key limitation of the presentation is that the study has not gone out yet and has essentially been turned over to the development and alumni offices to be sent out at their discretion, when it will fit best within their strategic framework.
2:00 – 2:20pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
2:00-2:20pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Melissa Wesney (Education)
Presenter: Maria Tellez
Moderator: Dr. Melissa Wesney
Title: “Online Learning: A Pilot Study on the Effectiveness of Remote Dual Enrollment in Rural Locations”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Undergraduate
Abstract: The growth and incorporation of dual enrollment programs throughout the United States have been high in numbers. Contributing to secondary education in high school students, these programs have been essential in the acceleration and credits in both high school and college settings. In remote locations, dual enrollment has been established with limited and altered resources for local students. Previous research has provided important factors attributing to a productive program. Many faculties have organized the management of employees by establishing multiple attributes. Due to the incorporation of leadership, there has been an increase in the number of high school students in dual enrollment programs. However, limitations in rural locations have led to increased remote learning. This form of education has been difficult for high school students. In this research, studies are conducted through qualitative and quantitative means to measure the effectiveness of remote education in dual enrollment courses. Data is retrieved from the completed surveys of dual enrollment students, parents, and instructors during the beginning and end of the Spring 2024 and 2025 semesters. Their responses provide insight into the expectations of dual enrollment and whether they believe they are prepared for higher education. By the end of this research, both comparisons and analyses are made on students and instructors‚ and performance and responses of all individuals. With this information, issues and solutions are provided on dual enrollment and implementations of remote courses. Suggestions and alterations will be discussed as a way to improve and provide more resources for high school students in higher education.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
2:00-2:20pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator:
No Room B 2:00pm Session Scheduled Currently
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
2:30 – 2:50pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
2:30-2:50pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller (Education)
Presenter: Jessika Ledezma
Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller
Title: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Training for Small Business Developments”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: Technology is here to stay as well as artificial intelligence. These new technologies have the potential to be a great asset to small businesses. In today’s digital world, having a strong social media presence is crucial for small businesses to connect with customers and grow. However, many small business owners face challenges such as limited resources and time, which makes creating engaging content difficult. While there is limited research on how artificial intelligence (AI) can directly help small businesses with their online presence, existing studies show that AI has great potential to improve efficiency and engagement across different industries. This study will explore how AI tools, such as Canva and its new AI features, can help small businesses create high-quality content for their social media. The research will cover what AI is, its benefits in small businesses, and how to effectively use the Canva application. Surnato et al. state, “The training in the Canva application is needed to improve skills and product sales for SMEs” (2023). While previous studies have highlighted AI’s potential for small businesses, they also highlight challenges like limited resources and lack of knowledge. This study aims to provide insights on how small businesses can overcome these obstacles and use AI to boost their online presence and stay competitive.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
2:30-2:50pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator:
No Room B 2:30pm Session Scheduled Currently
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
3:00 – 3:50pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
3:00-3:50pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis (Literature)
Extended Time: 3:00pm-3:50pm
Team Presenters: Autumn McFadden, Kelsey Pavelick, Robin Alvarez
Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis
Title: Recognizing Alpha Zeta Members’ Achievements: Attending the Sigma Tau Delta Convention”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Undergraduate/Graduate
Abstract: The Sigma Tau Delta 2025 Convention, held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, brought together students, faculty, and scholars nationwide to celebrate literature, language, and writing. The Alpha Zeta chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, an honor society for students of English language and literature at Sul Ross, took part by presenting their academic and creative work. They also engaged with a wide range of research, literary analysis, and original writing, expanding their deep engagement with English studies. Following the convention, the Alpha Zeta chapter will share their experiences with the university community, offering insight into the themes and discussions from the event. By reflecting on their presentations and key takeaways, they hope to spark meaningful conversations about the future of English studies and the role of literary scholarship today. Through this symposium, the Alpha Zeta chapter reaffirms its commitment to building a strong community of scholars who are passionate about literature, writing, and the humanities.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
3:00-3:20pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator:
No Room B 3:00pm Session Scheduled Currently
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
3:30 – 3:50pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
3:30-3:50pm / Virtual Room A & B – Moderator:
No Room A & B 3:30pm Sessions Scheduled Currently
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
4:00 – 4:20pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
4:00-4:50pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray (Education)
Presenter: Ricardo Mendez
Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray
Title: Texas-Mexico Border Digital Literacy Among Middle School Teachers”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: The study aims to explore barriers to digital literacy experienced by middle school teachers in the Texas – Mexico border and to examine how these barriers affect their ability to integrate technology effectively in their classrooms. Preliminary data collected through surveys and interviews highlight significant challenges, including lack of access to training resources, insufficient technical support, and limited administrative support for technology integration (Jones, 2022). These findings suggest that teachers may struggle to utilize technology to enhance their instructional practices without proper training and resources, ultimately impacting student learning outcomes (Smith & Rodriguez, 2021).
Furthermore, past studies have identified similar obstacles educators face in various contexts, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to support technology adoption in schools. For example, research by Thompson (2020) indicated that teachers often feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of technological advancements, leading to resistance to change and reluctance to incorporate new tools. By understanding these barriers, the study aims to provide actionable recommendations for improving digital literacy among middle school teachers, fostering a more technology-rich learning environment for students (Williams, 2019).
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
Extended Time: 4:00-4:50pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis (Literature)
Presenter: Paris Cantu, Cheryl Kantola
Moderator: Dr. Theron Francis
Title: “Margaret Fuller, Transcendental Travel, Education, and Feminism“
Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentations with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: American Transcendentalism in the 19th Century inspired the feminism of Margaret Fuller and the travel writing of Henry David Thoreau. English graduate students, Paris Cantu and Cheryl Kantola, researched two aspects of Margaret Fuller’s feminism: models of female divinity in scripture and myth and the use of Socratic dialog in women’s education. In “’Apple as Apple, Woman as Woman’: Margaret Fuller and Female Divinity,” Paris Cantu argues that Margaret Fuller in “Woman in the Nineteenth Century” arrived at a new spiritual position for women by repositioning both religious and mythological female figures and aligning personal spiritual development with feminist development. In “Margaret Fuller: The Socratic Seminar and Self-Discovery,” Cheryl Kantola describes how Margaret Fuller revolutionized modern education for women by utilizing the Socratic method and shifting the focus from passive learning to active intellectual engagement and self-discovery. Her approach to learning through dialogue, recorded in the book Conversations, encouraged women to be self-reliant and self-assured. Inspired by Thoreau’s essay, “Walking,” Michelle Lancaster writes a memoir of her own pilgrimage: “Walking Like an Egyptian: Trekking South Sinai with Thoreau.” Her travel narrative is both a reflective dialog with Thoreau’s text and a vivid journey of discovery.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
4:30 – 4:50pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
4:30-4:50pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray (Education)
Extended Time: 4:00pm-4:50pm
Presenter: Alma Rodriguez
Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray
Title: “Artificial Intelligence in HR Onboarding In The Banking Industry”
Poster/Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: Social presence—the feeling of authentic human connection in digital interactions—has emerged as a critical factor in virtual onboarding success. As organizations increasingly leverage artificial intelligence and virtual environments for employee onboarding, understanding how to maintain meaningful human connections becomes paramount for HR professionals. Research indicates that strategic implementation of AI in onboarding can enhance rather than diminish social presence through personalized learning paths, intelligent communication scheduling, and predictive engagement analytics. “AI-supported hiring can screen out candidates without much human interaction” (Bogen & Rieken, 2018; Withers, 2020). The rapidly evolving landscape of human resources demands innovative solutions to complex operational challenges. Artificial intelligence technologies offer HR professionals powerful tools to automate routine tasks, enhance decision-making processes, and deliver more strategic value to organizations. This transformation enables HR teams to shift their focus from administrative burdens to high-impact initiatives that drive employee engagement and organizational success. A well-designed onboarding experience serves as the foundation for long-term employee success and retention. An effective onboarding program goes beyond basic orientation, strategically integrating new hires into the company’s ecosystem while fostering meaningful connections with team members and leadership. This initial investment in employee experience not only reduces turnover costs but also accelerates productivity and strengthens organizational commitment. “Onboarding process is basically the beginning of new life of employees in an organization and includes all the procedure to make employees familiar with the culture of organization” ( View of Strategic Insights the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Human Resource Management, 2025). Furthermore, organizations seeking competitive advantage can leverage AI’s transformative capabilities to revolutionize their operations and market position. By implementing advanced AI solutions across key business functions, companies can unlock unprecedented levels of efficiency, gain deep analytical insights, and deliver enhanced value to stakeholders. This technological edge translates into tangible benefits: accelerated decision-making through predictive analytics, personalized customer experiences powered by machine learning, and optimization of resource allocation through intelligent automation. Companies that fully embrace AI’s potential position themselves not merely as industry participants, but as innovative leaders shaping the future of their sectors. Nevertheless, AI integration in HR has evolved from a competitive advantage to a strategic necessity. The transformative impact of AI-driven solutions extends far beyond operational efficiency, creating a dynamic ecosystem that benefits both existing employees and new talent. By automating routine tasks, AI empowers HR professionals to focus on high-value activities such as relationship building and strategic workforce planning. For existing employees, AI enhances their daily experience through personalized learning recommendations, streamlined benefits management, and intelligent career development pathways. New hires benefit from seamless onboarding experiences, proactive support systems, and customized integration programs that accelerate their path to productivity. Organizations that delay AI adoption risk falling behind in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and workforce optimization—critical factors in today’s competitive business landscape.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
5:00 – 5:20pm Session Presentations – Student Information and Abstracts
5:00-5:20pm / Virtual Room A – Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray (Education)
Presenter: Jesse Gaytan
Moderator: Dr. Jennifer Miller-Ray
Title: Bridging Law and Business: My Journey from Criminal Justice to an MBA”
Presentation: Pre-recorded video presentation with live follow-up – Graduate
Abstract: As a first-generation American with Mexican roots, raised in a small border town in the south of Texas, my academic journey has been fueled by a deep passion for helping others and giving back to my community. During my undergraduate studies in criminal justice with a focus in law, I gained a strong yearning to become an attorney focused on providing affordable but high-quality legal services to underserved communities. This dream led me to pursue an MBA before law school as I also understand the importance of business awareness in managing a law firm.
The change from criminal justice to an MBA has been difficult, requiring me to adapt to an entirely new academic discipline at an advanced level. However, I stay motivated by my commitment to succeed for my family, wife, and community. My goal is to be able to inspire others, especially those of Mexican or Spanish descent, by setting an example that shows education is achievable despite obstacles.
Through the MBA program, I hope to strengthen my finance, leadership, and strategic planning skills while at the same time preparing for the complexities of running a law firm. These skills will align with my future legal career, specifically in immigration law and potentially in criminal or corporate law. Merging business knowledge with legal expertise will ensure I am prepared to prosper in both fields. Ultimately, my educational journey shows perseverance at interdisciplinary learning, by combining law and business studies, I hope to create meaningful change in my community while serving as a role model for others pursuing similar paths.
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |
5:00-5:20pm / Virtual Room B – Moderator:
No Room B 5:00pm Session Scheduled Currently
| PRESENTER VIDEO | SESSION RECORDING |