Scientists gathered in the Memorial Union on Apr. 5 and 6 to celebrate new ideas and upcoming research. This year’s meeting marks the 156th annual Kansas Academy of Science meeting, which comprises scientists from across Kansas. Founded in 1868, KAS allows scientists of all ages to submit research and network within their respective fields.
The event kicked off on Friday, with an afternoon hike through Tallgrass Prairie and was followed by a keynote speech by Dr. Dennis O’Rourke. Saturday morning followed, beginning early with oral presentations. Presentations were given by a wide range of people, with undergraduate students, graduate students, professors, and retired professors giving presentations on their latest research. While oral presentations were given, the halls were also lined with research posters for members to read.
After lunch and a keynote presentation given by Dr. Kristen Baum, awards were presented to those who brought their research to the event.
The winners for each category were as follows:
Undergraduate Oral Presentation
1st Place Nathan Neufeld
2nd Place Richard Wolf
3rd Place Michael Tweed
Graduate Oral Presentation
1st Place Brandon Franta*
2nd Place Jack Systma
3rd Place (tie) Tucker Eckols* and Trevor Jones*
Undergraduate Poster
1st Place Cole VandeVelds
2nd Place Madison Atha
3rd Place (tie) Jordyn Lowrie and Taylor Evans
Graduate Poster
1st Place Heather Forster
2nd Place Meghan Cashell*
3rd Place P. Alex Swider*
*Indicates a student at Emporia State University