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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for School of Graduate and Professional Studies
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260401T090000
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DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20260311T185435Z
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UID:10001276-1775034000-1775037600@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Dissertation Defense: Serginho Walker
DESCRIPTION:Title: Examining the Unique Mental Health Challenges of Nonbinary and Gender Expansive Gay Black Men \nAbbreviated Abstract: This study examines the unique mental health challenges experienced by nonbinary and gender expansive gay Black men\, with particular attention to how intersecting systems of oppression—including anti-Black racism\, cisnormativity\, heteronormativity\, and gender binarism—shape their lived experiences. Despite growing research on LGBTQ+ mental health\, the experiences of gender expansive Black men remain significantly underrepresented in counseling and psychological literature. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) paired with autoethnography\, this study centers the voices and narratives of participants to generate rich\, in-depth understandings of how individuals make meaning of their intersecting identities\, mental health experiences\, and sources of resilience. IPA\, combined with autoethnographic reflection\, is particularly appropriate for this inquiry because the researcher serves as a participant-observer\, allowing for deeper interpretive engagement with the phenomenon being studied (Hurst\, 2023). This methodological approach emphasizes the co-construction of meaning between researcher and participant and is grounded in phenomenological and interpretive traditions that prioritize lived experience (Smith\, Flowers\, & Larkin\, 2009). The study is further informed by counseling and counselor education frameworks that emphasize culturally responsive\, identity-affirming\, and strengths-based perspectives when working with marginalized populations (Hays & Singh\, 2019). Findings from this research aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the mental health needs of nonbinary and gender expansive gay Black men while informing more inclusive clinical practices\, strengthening culturally responsive mental health interventions\, and supporting ongoing social justice efforts within counselor education and related helping professions. This presentation will be held Wednesday\, April 1\, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. via Microsoft Teams\, with an in-person viewing available in Room 217.
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/dissertation-defense-serginho-walker/
LOCATION:Adanti Student Center\, Room 217\, 345 Fitch Street\, New Haven\, Connecticut\, 06515\, United States
CATEGORIES:Defense
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20260116T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20260116T113000
DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20260105T144558Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T145156Z
UID:10001061-1768559400-1768563000@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Dissertation Defense: Renee Elizabeth Evans
DESCRIPTION:Title: An Art Therapy Program Aimed at Disrupting the Power of Ageism: Creating Awareness\, Liberation and Reinvigoration \nDissertation Committee: Dr. Laurie Bonjo \nAbbreviated Abstract: This dissertation examines how an art therapy program can disrupt ageism by empowering older adults through creative expression\, critical inquiry\, and community engagement. Grounded in Critical Race Theory\, Critical Gerontology Theory\, Critical Disability Theory\, and Erickson’s Developmental Framework\, the project positions older adults as cultural narrators whose lived experiences offer essential contributions to therapeutic\, social\, and political discourse. These theoretical frameworks illuminate how racism\, ageism\, and intersecting forms of structural marginalization shape the lives of ageing individuals\, particularly those from historically excluded communities. Using a Utilization-Focused Program Evaluation approach\, the study engages participants in reflective and participatory processes designed to surface personal narratives\, challenge stereotypes\, and strengthen agency. Through life review exercises\, facilitated group art-making\, and culminating exhibition\, participants create visual and narrative statements that counter societal invisibility and resist limiting assumptions about ageing. The program emphasizes relational connection\, empowerment\, and critical consciousness as core components of therapeutic change. Findings from the evaluation demonstrate the potential of art therapy to foster emotional resilience\, deepen social connections\, and support liberation-oriented healing for older adults. This work contributes to the growing field of liberation-based art therapy and underscores the value of creative\, culturally responsive\, and critically informed interventions that center marginalized voices. By situating older adults as knowledge holders and advocates\, the project highlights pathways to dismantle ageist ideologies and to promote more equitable and inclusive mental health practices. \n 
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/dissertation-defense-renee-elizabeth-evans/
CATEGORIES:Defense
LOCATION:https://us06web.zoom.us/meetings/85617950790/invitations?signature=CwEs_fC95CcAt859UpGucyE02VxiTHpRNGoXU9qOkgo
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20251016T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20251016T150000
DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20251006T154248Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T154731Z
UID:10001043-1760623200-1760626800@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Dissertation Defense: Naa Opoku-Gyamfi
DESCRIPTION:Title: I’m Rooting for Everybody Black: A Heuristic Phenomenological Study on Racial Violence\, Trauma and Healing Among Black Women \nDissertation Committee: Dr. Durryle Brooks\, Dr. Louisa Foss\, Dr. Brandon Hutchinson \nAbbreviated Abstract: This study explores racial trauma through the stories of black women. Using a Critical Love Theory framework and heuristic phenomenology\, six themes emerge\, from racial harm and silencing to healing and counseling. Findings call for counseling. Findings call for counseling spaces that center black women’s voices and experiences\, shaping more effective training\, interventions and healing practices. \nBio: Naa Opoku-Gyamfi is a counselor\, educator\, and doctoral candidate at Southern Connecticut State University researching racial trauma and healing among Black women. She works as a Mental Health Clinician in higher education\, teaches as an adjunct professor\, and maintains a private therapy practice. Naa’s work integrates narrative practice\, de colonial frameworks\, and community-rooted mental health care.
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/dissertation-defense-naa-opoku-gyamfi/
LOCATION:Davis Hall\, Room 223\, 537 Fitch Street\, New Haven\, CT\, 06514\, United States
CATEGORIES:Defense
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250711T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250711T150000
DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20250707T171608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250709T121359Z
UID:10000443-1752238800-1752246000@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Thesis Defense: Emerson Raymond
DESCRIPTION:Title: Effects of Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation on VO2 Kinetics and the Aerobic Threshold in Fit Adults \nThesis Advisor: William Lunn \nAbstracts will be available at the defense for interested Faculty. All are welcome to attend. \nThis event can either be attended in person or online. \nJoin Virtually Here
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/thesis-defense-emerson-raymond/
LOCATION:Health and Human Services\, 1st Floor\, Room 178\, 493 Fitch St\, New Haven\, CT\, 06514\, United States
CATEGORIES:Defense
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250513T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250513T120000
DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20250423T164945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T164945Z
UID:10000084-1747134000-1747137600@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Masters Thesis Defense: Allison Kross
DESCRIPTION:Title: A Comparative Study of the Tracheal Michroanatomy in Harbor Seals (Phocavitulina)\, COmmon Dolphin (Delphis delphis)\, and Florida Manatee (trichechus manatus latirostris) \nAbstract: The trachea plays an important role in the transportation of gases in and out of the lungs as well as preventing foregoing objects from entering the lungs. Marine mammals have a specialized respiratory system adapted for life in aquatic environments. Previous studies have examined the gross anatomical structure of different marine mammal species and the microanatomy of the harbor seal alone. In this study we describe and compare the tracheal microanatomy for the harbror seal (Phoca vitulina)\, common dolphin (Delphinus delphis)\, and Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris). A gross examination was carried out to measure the thickness of the cartilage rings and the condition of the epithelium. Frozen tissue samples were sectioned using a cryostat and the tissue was stained with H&E\, Gomori’s trichrome\, and toludine blue. Among the three species\, the Florida manatee was found to the thickest cartilage rings\, ranging between 8.0-9.0mm while the harbor seal and common dolphin ranged between 0.94 mm and 1.35 mm. Additionally\, vasculature was identified within the cartilage rings of the Florida manatee which is unusual for mammals as cartilage is typically avascular. Crypts were identified within the Florida manatee that appear to have similar morphology to crypts found in the intestines. Crypts or undulations in the epithelium were identified within the common dolphin as well. Furthermore\, there was abundant vasculature in all species examined with the Florida manatee and common dolphin both having long veins and the Florida manatee having the largest arteries. In recent years\, respiratory illnesses in marine mammals have been on the rise across the globe. With this rise\, it is important to understand the normal microanatomy for marine mammals before the abnormal in the case of respiratory illness can be identified.
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/masters-thesis-defense-allison-kross/
LOCATION:Jennings Hall\, Room 131\, 501 Crescent Street\, New Haven\, CT
CATEGORIES:Defense
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grad.southernct.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Allison-Kross.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250507T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250507T163000
DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20250409T182903Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T233934Z
UID:10000083-1746631800-1746635400@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Master's Thesis Defense: Eunice Kim
DESCRIPTION:Title: The Role of Inclusive and Representative Materials in Language Sampling Methods and Analysis\n \nAbstract: Standardized speech and language assessments often fail to account for cultural and linguistic diversity\, since they are typically norm-referenced\, single-word assessments based on mainstream populations\, preventing clinicians from recognizing cultural differences in language use (McLeod & Verdon\, 2014). To ensure culturally sensitive best practices\, incorporating language sampling\, which captures spontaneous and naturalistic language use\, can provide more accurate diagnoses in all populations. For young children\, language sampling typically includes child-led\, clinician supported facilitated play with age-appropriate toys. Language samples\, typically audio-recorded and transcribed\, are analyzed using formal protocols such as Sampling Utterances and Grammatical Analysis Revised (SUGAR) method (Pavelko & Owens\, 2022) and/or with clinician calculations of semantic\, syntactic\, and pragmatic development\, such as Mean Length of Utterance (MLU). This study examined whether toys representing diversity (e.g.\, dolls with different skin tones\, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices\, cochlear implants\, and mobility aids) influenced language sample quality across seven measures in eight typically developing preschoolers\, with a mean age of 4;5 years. While quantitative analysis found no significant differences in language complexity\, qualitative findings revealed that children displayed curiosity and engagement\, particularly with toys that depicted disability aids. This suggests that although diverse toys may not directly impact language output\, they can foster meaningful conversations about representation and inclusion (Ezmeci et al.\, 2022). These results underscore the importance of incorporating diverse materials into speech-language therapy\, as they support self-recognition and social connection in naturalistic assessment (Long\, 2024).
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/masters-thesis-defense-eunice-kim/
LOCATION:Health and Human Services\, Room 271\, 493 Fitch St\, New Haven\, CT\, 06514\, United States
CATEGORIES:Defense
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250507T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250507T140000
DTSTAMP:20260817T150959
CREATED:20250421T134036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T164849Z
UID:10000086-1746622800-1746626400@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Thesis Defense: Riley Pettit
DESCRIPTION:Title: Between Friends: Analyzing Communication Dynamics Between Adolescents with Hearing Loss and their Hearing Peers \nAbstract: Friendships are essential for adolescent development\, fostering emotional well-being\, social competence\, and a sense of belonging (Lambez et al.\, 2020; Manchanda et al.\, 2023). For deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) adolescents\, friendships with hearing peers present unique opportunities and challenges shaped by communication access\, social perceptions\, and environmental factors (Terlektsi et al.\, 2020). Research on these friendships remains limited\, particularly in understanding how communication strategies influence relationship quality. \nThis mixed methods study examined the friendships of five DHH-hearing adolescent friend pairs (ages 8–15\, mean age = 10.8) through qualitative interviews and quantitative analysis using the Friendship Qualities Questionnaire (FQQ; Bukowski et al.\, 1994). Based upon the parameters of the FQQ\, results from five key themes – companionship\, help\, conflict\, security\, and closeness – are shared alongside emergent subthemes that capture the complexities of these relationships. A central focus is the role of communication strategies in fostering connection\, navigating conflict\, and maintaining closeness. \nGrounded in the social model of disability (Oliver\, 1990)\, this study shifts the perspective from individual deficits to the broader environmental and social structures that shape friendships. Findings highlight both challenges\, such as communication breakdowns and social exclusion\, and strengths\, including creativity in communication\, mutual support\, and deep emotional bonds. Observations provide further insight into the natural interactions between DHH and hearing friends\, illustrating how they adapt and negotiate their social worlds. The results of this study offer valuable implications for speech-language pathologists\, educators\, and caregivers. By identifying key factors that contribute to successful friendships\, professionals can support social communication development and implement strategies to promote inclusive peer interactions. Findings underscore the need for increased awareness of accessibility in social settings and suggest practical approaches to fostering meaningful\, supportive friendships for DHH adolescents.
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/thesis-defense-riley-pettit/
LOCATION:Health and Human Services\, Room 271\, 493 Fitch St\, New Haven\, CT\, 06514\, United States
CATEGORIES:Defense
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grad.southernct.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Riley-Petitt.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250430T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250430T160000
DTSTAMP:20260817T151000
CREATED:20250421T133143Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T162115Z
UID:10000085-1746025200-1746028800@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Thesis Defense: Danielle Moloney
DESCRIPTION:Title: A within-site comparison of intertidal and subtidal populations of Astrangia poculata \nAbstract: Astrangia poculata (Northern-star coral) exists in both the intertidal and subtidal habitats in southern New England. As such\, they inhabit exceptionally dynamic environments. Though subtidal populations have been well studied\, few studies exist examining basic physiological parameters between adjacent intertidal and subtidal populations. The objective of this study was to compare factors controlling intertidal coral resilience that allow them to withstand extreme environmental fluctuations. Corals were collected from the intertidal and subtidal zones at Fort Wetherill\, Rhode Island\, then acclimated to lab conditions at Southern Connecticut State University. We exposed intertidal and subtidal colonies to thermal challenges of either heat or cold stress (5°C\, 15°C\, 18°C\, 22°C\, and 27°C) based on historical averages in the region. To assess physiological differences between intertidal and subtidal populations\, we measured feeding responses\, fluorescent yield\, and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration both before and after exposure to thermal challenge. Temperature had a significant impact on feeding responses\, with a collapse of all feeding behavior in the 5°C treatment after all corals in this group entered a winter dormancy period called quiescence. We observed an inverse relationship between temperature treatment and DO concentration\, with higher DO produced by corals in cold temperature treatments and low levels of DO\, or DO consumption\, in the warm temperature treatments. Intertidal or subtidal collection site significantly impacted fluorescent yield\, with intertidal corals exhibiting higher and more variable fluorescence than subtidal corals. All corals in the 5°C treatment entered quiescence\, regardless of collection site\, allowing for measurements on quiescent A. poculata to be taken for the first time in a laboratory setting. The results of this study have important implications for the fields of temperate coral resilience\, intertidal coral communities\, and cnidarian dormancy.
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/thesis-defense-danielle-moloney/
LOCATION:Academic Science and Labratory Building\, 103\, Jennings Hall\, Fitch St\, New Haven\, CT\, 06515\, United States
CATEGORIES:Defense
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grad.southernct.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Danielle-Moloney-scaled.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20250325T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20250325T150000
DTSTAMP:20260817T151000
CREATED:20250319T180640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T132928Z
UID:10000071-1742907600-1742914800@grad.southernct.edu
SUMMARY:Dissertation Defense: Daphney Alston
DESCRIPTION:Title: CLAIMING OWNERSHIP OF MY FREEDOM: A Narrative Study of the Experiences of Midlevel Black Women Student Affairs Professionals \nAbstract: This qualitative research study explored the experiences of Black Women midlevel professionals working in student affairs in higher education. The goal of this study was to understand how the five research participants experienced their gendered racial identity and what factors served as motivators for their persistence to senior student affairs officer roles. Critical Race Theory\, Black Feminist Theory\, and Intersectionality served as the theoretical frameworks for the study. Using narrative inquiry and ethnographic methods\, the study discussed a need to redefine persistence for Black women in higher education\, the process of legacy building for Black women and understanding the role that white supremacy and misogyny plays at the intersection of the gendered racial identity for Black women. The study adds to the existing knowledge of Black women midlevel professionals in student affairs and reaffirms recommendations for practice including establishing affinity groups\, professional development opportunities\, using principles of Black Feminist Theory as a supervision approach\, and decolonized curriculum for counselor education programs.
URL:https://grad.southernct.edu/event/dissertation-defense-daphney-alston-doctoral-student/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Defense
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