Waynesburg U. hosts annual symposium to showcase student research

On Wednesday, April 22, Waynesburg University students presented their academic research at the 14th Annual Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Work Symposium.

Eight disciplines were represented at this year's symposium, including biology, chemistry, environmental science, computer science, history, theology, psychology and forensic science. Altogether, 38 dedicated students presented their research through five oral presentations and 26 poster presentations.

"This symposium is a truly unique, cross-disciplinary experience that showcases the best WU students have to offer," shared Dr. Christian Hayes, assistant professor of biology, director of marine science and Au Sable Institute faculty representative.

The event included two poster exploration sessions, where students' posters were placed on display for attendees to examine and ask questions, and one podium presentation session. During their podium presentation, students had the opportunity to share their findings in front of a live audience of more than 125 people.

"Students presenting at the symposium gain real-world experience in communicating their research to a wide audience and receive valuable feedback from faculty judges on their research," Dr. Hayes explained.

Of the participating students, three were chosen as winners for the best oral and best poster presentations. Senior pharmaceutical science major Hailey Crusenberry and senior marine biology major Haley Pattison were both awarded the best oral presentation, and senior biomedical science major Macee Cree was awarded the best poster presentation.

Crusenberry's research on the "Synthesis of Rufinamide Analogs for Inhibition of Nav Sodium Channels and Epilepsy Treatment" began during a nine-week course at the University of Puerto Rico through the National Science Foundation's Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program that focused on the "Molecular Aspects of Pharmaceutical Science." There, she had the opportunity to assist a student named Angelica Cruz Calderón in her research on Rufinamide and epilepsy treatment.

While this was Crusenberry's first time conducting research outside of Waynesburg University, this year was her third year presenting at the annual symposium. Last year, she also received the award for best oral presentation on her research on "Directed Evolution of Cytochrome P450 for Honokiol Natural Production."

"The Waynesburg Symposium allows students like myself to diversify my speaking abilities to a non-scientific audience, bridging gaps and encouraging engagement with scientific research," Crusenberry said. "Having also presented orally at the Pittcon 2026 international conference, these speaking skills are very important for my future career."

After graduating, Crusenberry plans to continue her research at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy to receive her doctorate in pharmaceutical sciences.

About Waynesburg U.

Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University's Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.

# # #

14th Annual Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Work Symposium