Research Topics Quick Links
Biology
Business
Equine
Internships
Marketing
Nursing
Sport Management
Biology
Bird Feeder Color Selections; Species Engagement with Feeder Types
Bland, Dillion
Faculty Sponsor: John Delfino, PhD
Empirical bird feeding studies have led to color selection projects. During winter - spring 2026 this study had objectives to determine within feeder types (platform, hopper, tube): aggregate color selection, associations between bird species and feeder color selection, bird species diversity. Additionally, a bird species checklist was developed. Within feeder types, black, green, silver variants were hung on a three-armed pole located in parklike grassland on the Midway University Campus, 9.5 meters adjacent to the Lee Branch stream. Feeders were filled with black-oil sunflower seed. Feeding visits were documented for 3-hour intervals around sunset. Aggregate and association color selections were obtained by observing visits to each feeder type and color. Species diversity was calculated from the bird checklist. For hopper feeders, aggregate color selection existed. Association between bird species and feeder color existed (2 species). For platform feeders, aggregate color selection existed. Association between bird species and color selection existed (5 species). For tube feeders, aggregate color selection existed. Association between bird species and feeder color existed (1 species). Species diversity ranked highest to lowest: platform, hopper, tube. Most birds visited platform feeders, then hopper, then tube. Within feeder types, birds had aggregate selections influenced by associations.
Business
Forecasting Revenue Growth and Strategic Analysis of Target Corporation
Turnmire, Martina
Faculty Sponsor: Amy Sheikh, MBA
This work examines Target Corporation's historical revenue patterns and its future financial performance and revenues through 2024. The objectives of this investigation are to determine Target Corporation’s growth patterns and to generate short-term predictions of future performance by applying three quantitative models: linear, exponential, and quadratic trend models. Along with quantitative forecasting, the SWOT analysis framework is used to examine Target Corporation’s internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external threats and opportunities. According to the results, the company is characterized by high brand awareness, a strong private-label strategy, and omnichannel growth. At the same time, it largely depends on the American market, and competition in the retail sector is increasing. According to the forecast, Target will continue to grow, and the linear trend model appears more realistic.
Brown-Forman: On the Rocks Amid Industry Headwinds
North, Griffin; Ousley, Zach; Graham, Hunter; Warner, Blake; Sanchez, Luis
Faculty Sponsor: Michael Michalisin, CFA
The CFA Research team conducted in-depth research to evaluate the valuation and investment outlook of Brown-Forman Corporation (BF.B) in the context of evolving industry dynamics within the global spirits market. The study addresses whether current market pricing accurately reflects the company’s long-term earnings potential amid declining alcohol consumption, elevated industry inventory levels, and shifting consumer preferences. The analysis applies a fundamentals-driven approach, including historical financial review, three-statement financial modeling, and forward projections of operating performance through key metrics such as revenue, margins, and free cash flow. Valuation is conducted using a blended framework of price-to-earnings, EV/EBITDA, and discounted cash flow methodologies, supplemented by scenario and sensitivity analysis to assess risk and return outcomes. Findings indicate that while Brown-Forman maintains a strong competitive position supported by premium brand equity, pricing power, and consistent cash flow generation, near-term performance is constrained by industry headwinds and moderating demand. Valuation results cluster within a narrow range, suggesting limited upside potential under current conditions. The research concludes that Brown-Forman is fairly valued, supporting a Hold recommendation. This analysis highlights the importance of balancing structural strengths against cyclical pressures when evaluating mature, cash-generative consumer staples companies.
Thinking Abstractly or Concretely: Implications for Cognitive and Affective Empathy
Rana, Bhumi; Patel, Yashasvi
Faculty Sponsor: Robert Barrett, PhD
The purpose of the present study is to extend construal level theory by examining whether individual differences in abstract and concrete construal are differentially associated with cognitive and affective components of empathy. In doing so, this research advances CLT by demonstrating how stable construal orientations shape social cognition and emotional responsiveness, while positioning empathy as a theoretically meaningful application rather than the primary focus.
Equine
The Effect of Amino Acid Supplementation on Blood Lactate in Response to Exercise in Aged Horses
Geissler, Stacey
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
Workload Assessment in Hunt Seat Horses Under Amino Acid Supplementation Trial
Holden, Hannah
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
Monitoring Workload in Western Horses During Amino Acid Supplementation Trial
Mullins, Hannah
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
The Cardiovascular Response to Amino Acid Supplementation in Aged Horses
Carruth, Julia
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
Effects of amino acid supplementation on weight and body composition in senior horses
Knois-Johnson, Ava
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
Does the supplementation of amino acids affect the muscles scoring of older horses?
Sleuth, Truman
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
Pasture Composition for Aged Horses
Price, Kimberlyn
Faculty Sponsor: Jennifer Moore, PhD
Internships
Bridging the Gap: The Role of the Five BOC Domains in Midway University Athletic Training
McGahan, Zechariah
Faculty Sponsor: Terry Adams, DBA
Athletic training is defined by five key practice domains established by the Board of Certification (BOC): risk reduction and prevention, clinical evaluation and diagnosis, immediate care, treatment and rehabilitation, and healthcare administration. This project examines how these domains are applied in a real-world practicum setting at Midway University. Through hands-on observation ad limited participation under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer, key responsibilities such as assisting with rehabilitation exercises, applying recovery modalities like cupping, and observing injury evaluations including cases of scapular dyskinesis were explored. The integration of classroom knowledge with clinical practice highlighted the importance of anatomical understanding, biomechanics, and evidence-based decision-making in patient care. Each domain was represented through daily tasks, from preventing injury through proper exercise technique to supporting rehabilitation and recovery strategies. This experience demonstrated how theoretical concepts directly inform practical application in athletic training. Overall, the practicum reinforced the significance of the BOC domains as a framework for delivering effective, safe, and patient-centered care, while also emphasizing the role of clinical experience in developing professional competence.
Behind the Heartbeat: Cardiovascular Perfusionists at Work
Hudgins, Kylie
Faculty Sponsor: Katie Lynch, PhD
Have you ever wondered what keeps a patient alive when their heart is stopped during surgery? That’s where cardiovascular perfusionists come in. These specialized healthcare professionals run the heart-lung machine, ensuring blood circulates and oxygen reaches the body while the surgeon works. In this presentation, I’ll break down what perfusionists actually do, the technology used, and the skills required to do the job. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how they help make heart surgeries possible, and why their work is so important in saving lives.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease and Lifestyle Interventions
Walton, Lauren
Faculty Sponsor: Terry Adams, DBA
After completing my internship at a cardiologist's office, I reflected on my education regarding heart diseases and their associated treatment. In this poster I discuss what the risk factors for heart disease are, and how the patient can take control in their health. This was a frequently discussed topic at my practicum site both between myself and the cardiologist, and between him and his patients. This informative presentation will discuss what the red flags are, and how to improve your heart health and decrease your risk of disease.
Helping Patients Stay Healthy: A Behavioral Approach to Pharmacy
Baum, Payton
Faculty Sponsor: Terry Adams, DBA
This poster presentation highlights my internship experience at Railroad Drugs Pharmacy in Midway, Kentucky, where I gained hands-on exposure to community pharmacy operations and patient care. Throughout my practicum, I participated in a variety of essential pharmacy tasks, including accurately filling and counting prescriptions, organizing and stocking medications, preparing prescriptions for nursing home residents, and assisting with medication delivery services. This experience allowed me to apply key scientific and healthcare concepts such as dosage calculations, medication safety, infection control, and proper drug storage. I also developed a deeper understanding of pharmacology principles and the importance of accuracy and attention to detail in preventing medication errors. In addition to technical skills, I strengthened my communication abilities by interacting with patients, addressing their questions, and supporting pharmacists in providing quality care. Working in a community pharmacy setting emphasized the critical role pharmacists play in promoting public health, ensuring medication adherence, and improving patient outcomes. This internship not only enhanced my knowledge of pharmacy practice but also reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. Overall, my experience at Railroad Drugs Pharmacy provided valuable insight into the responsibilities and impact of pharmacy professionals in a local community.
Analyzing Athletic Taping Through Research and Practicum
Badgett, Jessica
Faculty Sponsor: Terry Adams, DBA
My poster focuses on my practicum experience from West Jessamine High School and how my observations relate to research and evidence-based practice. My practicum site focused on athletic training in secondary settings, where I observed variations in athletic taping, primarily ankle taping, and how taping can benefit athletes with injuries. Through an analysis of various sources, it has been found that athletic taping can offer advantages but also a few notable drawbacks. The culmination of information from these sources helps to show the impact of evidence-based research on just a part of the care provided by athletic trainers.
Bridging the Gap: Communication in Orthopedic Healthcare Teams
Shalash, Jameela
Faculty Sponsor: Terry Adams, DBA
My project focuses on communication in healthcare teams and how it affects patients and their care in an actual clinical setting. While I was at Lexington Clinic Orthopedic-Sports Medicine, I was able to observe how technicians, providers and administrative staff communicate to coordinate patient care. I created a flowchart that shows how and what information call-center staff obtain and use it to decide which provider a patient should see to reduce mistakes. I learned that clear and organized communication greatly helps improve workflow, reduce mistakes and increase patient satisfaction. I also learned how miscommunication can lead to delays and confusion for both staff and patients as well as reduce unnecessary visits for patients. Overall, this project connects concepts I learned in this course about communication and patient safety to real-world experiences and shows how improving communication can lead to better healthcare outcomes.
Behavior and Compliance in Long Term Care Facilities
Adams, Macy
Faculty Sponsor: Terry Adams, DBA
Behavior and compliance are some of the most important factors that go into the care that the residents receive in a long-term care facility. What the residents put into their care is what they receive. If a resident refuses to do their exercises, there is not much that the staff can do to help. It is important to understand how to direct behavior to get a resident to do what they are supposed to. The staff in a long-term care facility must be able to adapt to the behavior that a resident has and turn that into something that is beneficial for the elder. The staff needs to have tactics to encourage residents to do their exercises and help them get stronger and be able to complete day-to-day activities.
Marketing
Midway Eagle Outlet Trends
Williams, Maddison; Dotson, Bella; Kemper, Chloe
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
The Eagle Outlet at Midway University offers a variety of branded merchandise, but there is an opportunity to develop new products aligned with current trends and student preferences, based on summer apparel and accessories. This project focuses on developing a merchandising and product design plan to enhance the Eagle Outlet’s offerings. To complete this project, we conducted an in-store audit, analyzed current merchandise, researched industry trends, and identified the needs and preferences of Midway students and parents. We then designed a range of clothing and accessory concepts, including T-shirts, hats, and other seasonal items, and gathered feedback from students through campus market research. Our findings suggest that products with modern styles and functional designs are more likely to attract student interest and increase sales. The final merchandising strategy emphasizes trend-driven designs, strong branding, and data-informed product selection. Overall, this project demonstrates how targeted product development and strategic merchandising can improve Eagle Outlet’s visibility and better meet Midway students' needs.
The Sound of Nothing Dryin
Burch, Cate; Pollock, Sadie
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
The Silent Hair Dryer is designed to make less noise than a regular hair dryer. The average noise level of a hair dryer is between 80 and 90 dB, which limits its use in the early morning and late at night and can be loud in shared living spaces. This project presents a modified hair dryer that maintains its functionality while lowering sound levels to about 50 dB, which can be compared to normal conversations. This device is designed with comfort in mind, featuring a brushless motor that helps reduce vibration and internal noise, along with a low-pitched impeller that creates a quieter, smoother airflow. Together, these improvements make it more pleasant to use without compromising performance. It’s a great fit for college students, young professionals, and anyone living in shared spaces who appreciates convenience and being mindful of those around them. Since the personal care and hair appliance market is constantly growing, the Silent Hair Dryer is designed to be an affordable, high-quality alternative at $40. In conclusion, this product will improve daily routines and lower distracting noise while maintaining its usefulness.
TrailerVision Marketing Plan
Begley, William; Kratzer, Allison
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
TrailerVision is a new product designed to improve safety and visibility when backing up trailers, especially in the equine and livestock industries. This paper explains the development, marketing strategy, and overall value of the product. TrailerVision is a wireless, magnetic backup camera that can be easily attached to different trailers without installation, making it more convenient and cost-effective than traditional wired systems. The project focuses on how this product stands out in the market through its portability, ease of use, and ability to connect to a mobile device. The marketing plan targets horse owners, trainers, and others involved in transporting animals, with an emphasis on safety, efficiency, and animal welfare. Strategies include social media promotion, partnerships with retailers, and demonstrations at equestrian events. The paper also discusses pricing, distribution, and promotional tactics, along with a SWOT analysis to evaluate strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Overall, TrailerVision aims to fill a gap in the market by offering a practical and innovative solution for trailer safety. The product has strong potential for growth due to increasing demand for safety technology and its ability to meet the needs of multiple industries beyond just equine use.
Eagle Outlet: The Summer Trend Transformation
Goodlock, Benjamin; Castillejos Vanegas, Diego; Nipper, Madison; Mylor, Samuel
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
The goal for our Product Merchandising & Sales class was to create new merchandise for the Eagle Outlet Store. This project explores strategies to improve merchandise selection and align campus retail offerings with current student preferences at Midway University. Our study began with an evaluation of the existing Eagle Outlet, identifying strengths and areas for improvement in its product offerings. To gather data, we created a student survey with 11 initial product designs for current Midway students to provide feedback. Using our research and data, we selected products that students would buy to submit and present to the store's owners. Overall, the project highlights the importance of using data to make decisions in retail. It also demonstrates how aligning products with consumer trends can enhance engagement, satisfaction, and sales within the Eagle Outlet.
Kentucky Coffee Tree Café
Garcia, Fabian; Dotson, Bella
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
This marketing project focuses on the development of a strategic plan for the Kentucky Coffee Tree Café, a locally inspired concept designed to highlight community engagement, sustainability, and a unique customer experience. The purpose of this project is to analyze the café’s target market, competitive environment, and branding opportunities in order to create an effective marketing strategy that drives awareness and customer loyalty. Key components include market research, identification of ideal customer segments, and the creation of a brand identity that reflects Kentucky culture and values. The project also explores promotional strategies such as social media campaigns, partnerships with local businesses, and event-based marketing to increase foot traffic and customer interaction. Emphasis is placed on creating a welcoming atmosphere that differentiates the café from larger chain competitors by offering locally sourced products and personalized service. Additionally, pricing strategies and product offerings are designed to appeal to both college students and community members. Overall, this project demonstrates how a well-rounded marketing approach can position the Kentucky Coffee Tree Café as a competitive and sustainable business while fostering strong connections within the local community.
Eagle Outlet: New Brands & Best Sellers
Revel, Caleb; Reed, Carter; Carrier, Bailey
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
This study explores product preferences and brand expansion opportunities for the Eagle Outlet, Midway University’s campus retail store. The purpose of this project was to identify new brands students are most interested in and determine current best-selling items to improve inventory decisions and overall customer satisfaction. Data was collected through a student survey targeting purchasing habits, brand awareness, and product preferences among students, faculty, and staff. Results indicated strong interest in athleisure brands, affordable essentials, and Midway-branded merchandise, with hoodies, t-shirts, and drinkware emerging as top sellers. Additionally, respondents expressed a desire for more variety, competitive pricing, and trend-focused apparel options. These findings provide actionable insights for the Eagle Outlet to refine its product mix, introduce new brands aligned with student interests, and enhance the campus shopping experience. This project demonstrates how data-driven decision-making can support retail growth and strengthen campus engagement.
Tee-rific Trends
Smith, Grace; Wright, Kenneth; Truax, Jaxson
Faculty Sponsor: Amber Chatelain, DBA
A survey featuring designs created by the team was completed by peers and subsequently analyzed to determine potential best-sellers for the Eagle Outlet.
Nursing
Improving Patient Outcomes: Through Standardized Nurse-Led Dysphagia Screening in Acute Stroke Care
Ujas, Danielle; Allbert, Raigan; Boothe, Makayla
Faculty Sponsor: Laura Columbia, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Dysphagia is a common complication after stroke, affecting up to half of survivors and posing serious risk if not identified early. This project examined the importance of early dysphagia screening in stroke patients and reviewed best practices for implementation. Despite strong evidence supporting early screening, gaps remain related to long term outcomes, optimal screening tools and implementation barriers. Recommendations include mandatory nurse-led dysphagia screening for all stroke patients within 24 hours, supported by staff training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and integration into routine clinical workflows.
Patient Education and the Reduction of Heart Failure Readmission Rates
Applegate, Haylee; Martin, Helen; Wright, Caitlin
Faculty Sponsor: Laura Columbia, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
The goal of this research project was to determine whether patient-centered education is beneficial in reducing heart failure readmission rates. This project investigated general readmission rates versus when patients received specific patient-centered education and overall readmission rates, demonstrating how incorporating patient-centered education has a positive outcome on the overall disease process.
Effects of Using Manuka Honey Dressing Opposed to Sterile Dressings in Adults With Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Getty, Katerin; Casey, Mariana
Faculty Sponsor: Laura Columbia, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Diabetic foot ulcers are the number one cause of hospitalization among diabetic adults. This project examined the effect of using manuka honey dressings versus sterile dressings on ulcer healing rates. Data supported use of medical grade manuka honey in enhancing diabetic foot ulcer healing rates, infection prevention, and in the overall treatment of chronic and recurring diabetic foot ulcers.
Prevention of Pressure Injuries in Immobile Patients
Cook, Abbie; Marion, Hannah; Lancaster, Van’Donna
Faculty Sponsor: Laura Columbia, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
For this project, various methods of prevention for pressure injuries in immobile patients were examined, to establish the importance of this in practice. The nurses’ roles and responsibilities for pressure injury prevention were recognized, and needs for further research and implementations for nursing practice were identified.
The Importance of Medication Reconciliation During Transition of Care
Casado, Izan; Korchuk, Victoria
Faculty Sponsor: Erin Wilford, MSN, RN
Errors or omissions of medications when patients are admitted, transferred, or discharged can cause harmful drug interactions, dosing errors, and other adverse drug events. A few of the main contributing factors to this problem include patient recall limitations, inadequate communication between healthcare providers, reliance on a single source of information, and time constraints. Complete medication reconciliation is important to ensure that the patient receives the best possible care. Nurses play a crucial role in coordinating, educating, and facilitating safe medication transitions. Interdisciplinary collaboration minimizes reconciliation errors and improves overall patient outcomes.
Using Technology as a Tool, Not a Replacement for Nursing Practice
Lee, Kaylin; Tinsley, Kaleigh
Faculty Sponsor: Erin Wilford, MSN, RN
Healthcare technology has improved the way nurses monitor patients, communicate, and deliver care, but it cannot replace clinical judgment. This project examines how technology should be used as a tool to support, rather than replace, nursing decision-making. Research shows that technology helps with early detection of changes, medication safety, and more accurate monitoring. However, relying too heavily on technology can lead to problems such as missing physical assessment findings, alarm fatigue, and delayed recognition of patient decline. Using Patricia Benner's Novice-to-Expert Theory, this project explains how clinical judgment develops over time through experience and practice. It also compares how nurses use technology in medical-surgical and ICU settings, showing that both rely on combining patient assessment with data from monitors. Overall, the findings show that the best patient outcomes occur when nurses use both technology and critical thinking. Nurses play a key role in interpreting data, advocating for patients, and making safe decisions. This project reinforces the importance of keeping patient care focused on assessment, clinical reasoning, and each patient's individual needs.
Sport Management
LiquiSense
Eddy, Brennan; Marcum, Trista; Truax, Jaxson
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
LiquiSense is a smart 3-in-1 water bottle made for athletes and everyday people to stay hydrated, healthy, and perform at their best. Our mission is to make hydration simple, connected, and personalized for everyone. Many people don’t drink enough water because they’re busy, forget, or don’t really know how much they’re drinking. This is a big deal for athletes, since even mild dehydration can hurt energy, focus, and performance. What makes LiquiSense different is its advanced sensor system. It uses infrared and volume sensors to detect liquid levels and flow tracking to measure intake in real time. The bottle connects to HydroPortal, our mobile app, which personalizes hydration goals based on your sport, activity, and performance needs. It tracks progress in real time, stores hydration history, and sends reminders if you’re falling behind throughout the day and during workouts. The bottle is made with a durable, squeezable titanium-weave material that is completely plastic-free, making it more sustainable, longer-lasting, and unique in the market. This innovation gives LiquiSense a strong competitive advantage. We are now looking for design support as we plan the development, testing, and successful marketing of LiquiSense.
Whitaker Golf Lab
Whitaker, Jackson
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Whitaker Golf Lab, founded by Jackson Whitaker, is a mobile golf service built for amateur golfers. The business focuses on solving a common problem in the golf community: long wait times, long drives to golf stores, and inconvenience when it comes to club repairs and maintenance. Many golfers have to leave their clubs at busy golf shops for days or even weeks, especially during tournament season, which negatively impacts their performance. The business brings professional services directly to customers. Services include regripping, spike replacement, shoe cleaning, reshafting, wedge stamping, and selling equipment like balls and shafts. It also offers on-site tournament support for quick, same-day adjustments. The target market includes amateur golfers in Lexington, Kentucky, including high school and college players in a strong local golf community. With low overhead from its mobile model, revenue comes from service fees, travel charges, and tournament bookings. Currently in its early stages, Whitaker Golf Lab is gathering feedback and validating demand. With initial funding for equipment, it aims to launch within 4–6 months and expand to larger markets like Florida. Its focus on convenience, affordability, and speed positions it for strong growth.
Patchworks
Allison, Kennedy
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Patchworks is an educational service that provides detailed lessons, guided learning, and recorded videos to teach users how to modify their favorite games independently. In addition to this guided approach, it offers lessons in various coding languages, tutorials on common modding concepts and tools, and a community-driven review process that lets users post their work and receive feedback from others. The complexity of modding leaves many frustrated and confused, and can even lead them to abandon their projects. Patchworks offers its services to users of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced developers, helping them build and refine their craft. Our company offers a flat-rate monthly subscription service, along with additional specialized lesson plans for specific games or topics. Currently in the early development phase, Patchworks needs front-end and back-end developers, cloud storage, cybersecurity software, and high-quality lesson materials to develop a working prototype.
Avenger Tools
Beasley, Isaac; Kearns, Will
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Avenger Tools is a next generation electrical tool company that is targeting a share of an already established $40 billion dollar market that is continuing to grow alongside construction, infrastructure, and home improvement. Our first product, “The Outlet Avenger” is a Multifunctional Tool that serves a market segment that is still largely untapped. It is an all-in-one High-performance product with Wire strippers, Coax Cutters, a Voltage tester, and screwdrivers, including Flathead and Phillips options built into the handles. This reduces the need for multiple devices, saving professionals time and lowering total tool costs by combining essential functions into one durable, compact device. This product addresses a clear inefficiency in the current market. With a premium, yet practical product strategy, The “Outlet Avenger” targets professional electricians and your everyday DIY workers. This tool shows opportunities for product line expansion and offers a substantial growth opportunity. As demand for efficiency and convenience continues to rise, this allows Avenger tools to scale and grow in today’s market. Additionally, Avenger tools are committed to innovation, durability, and user focused design, ensuring our product delivers reliable performance. We are currently seeking design expertise and key partners to create a working “Outlet Avenger”
AI-Enhanced Analysis of Bicycle Radar for Active Transportation Safety
Wright, Kenneth; Maia, Daniel
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Active transportation safety is a growing priority for small communities seeking to support public health, economic development, and sustainable mobility. A previous feasibility study conducted in Midway, Kentucky, evaluated bicycle-vehicle interactions using Garmin Varia™ rear-facing bicycle radar to document vehicle passing behavior on shared roadways. Advances in analytical methods now allow for more effective interpretation of these datasets through the appropriate and professional application of artificial intelligence (AI). This study builds on the original research by reanalyzing multiple years of radar and GPS data using AI-assisted statistical and spatial techniques. Data from over 240 rides, representing more than 5,000 miles and over 8,000 vehicle-passing events, were evaluated to identify trends in passing speeds, relative vehicle behavior, and roadway context. AI-supported pattern recognition improved the detection of high-risk segments and recurring motorist behaviors that were not readily identifiable through earlier manual analysis. Findings demonstrate that AI-enhanced interpretation of bicycle radar data strengthens its usefulness for infrastructure planning, trail connectivity, and shared roadway design. The results support data-driven recommendations for improving cyclist safety while providing a scalable framework for community-level active transportation planning and policy development.
Warner Woodland Heritage Farm
Warner, Cristian
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Warner Woodland Heritage Farm is an agritourism venture designed to transform a 25-acre property into a diversified, revenue-generating rural experience business. The concept responds to a growing consumer demand for authentic, hands-on experiences that reconnect individuals and families with agriculture, nature, and traditional skills. Positioned within the expanding Pacific Northwest tourism market, the farm fills a gap between high-cost outdoor recreation and passive sightseeing by offering immersive, educational farm-based activities. The operation integrates heritage livestock, including Belgian draft horses and Icelandic sheep, with regenerative land management practices to create both production value and experiential appeal. Visitors engage directly through cabin stays, lavender fields, wagon rides, woodland trails, and hands-on workshops focused on fiber arts and historic farming methods. Additional revenue streams are generated through events such as weddings with farm-to-table dinners, and seasonal festivals hosted on-site. The business model emphasizes a lean startup approach, prioritizing essential, revenue-producing assets and scalable programming over heavy initial investment. Early-stage projections focus on validating demand and achieving profitability through owner-operated efficiency, with growth driven by expanded offerings and increased booking capacity. Ultimately, Warner Woodland Heritage Farm represents a scalable model that combines agriculture, education, and tourism into a sustainable, experience-based enterprise.
Safety Stands
Mosby, Audrey; Stargel, Trayton
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Safety Stands is an innovative safety device designed to improve protection for hunters using tree stands, particularly in remote, off-grid environments. The device attaches to a standard tree stand harness and integrates fall-detection technology with satellite-enabled GPS communication. In the event of a fall, it initiates a 30-second countdown, allowing the user to cancel a false alert before automatically transmitting their location to emergency services, addressing a critical gap in areas with limited connectivity. The need for this solution is supported by significant data: One of the largest misconceptions is that hunting accidents occur due to firearm discharge. In reality 1 in 3 hunters will experience a tree stand fall in their lifetime, with 300–500 fatalities and approximately 6,000 injuries occurring annually. Of those injured, 59% suffer spinal fractures and up to 10% result in permanent disability. Nearly 80% of incidents occur while climbing in or out of the stand, highlighting key moments of risk. While competitors such as the Adventure SOS StandTrac offer partial solutions, Safety Stands differentiates itself through its specialized design and emergency services. Currently in the development stage, the project is focused on determining sensor type, cost, and an accessible price point for target users.
Adaptix
Riddick, Omarion; Sander, Jojo; Jones, Gabriel
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
Adaptix is changing performance and safety in football footwear through a fully customizable cleat system designed for the modern athlete. Unlike traditional football cleats with fixed stud patterns and limited variability, Adaptix introduces a modular soleplate that allows athletes to place studs exactly where they want. Using interchangeable lengths and shapes tailored to their position, playing style, and field conditions, Adaptix provides a personalized solution that traditional cleats cannot. Adaptix uses a high-performance carbon fiber plate within the sole, designed to reduce the risk of turf toe and improve energy return. This enhances durability and stiffness in key areas of the foot but also supports injury prevention. In our current stage, we are looking for partners to help with modeling, manufacturing, and labor. Adaptix potential for growth across football also includes future expansion into other field sports. As demand for personalized performance gear continues to rise, Adaptix is positioned to take a step in athletic footwear where athletes are no longer limited by their equipment but empowered by it.
Antaeus Athletics
Turner, Noah; Van Why, Harry
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
At Antaeus Athletics we have redefined wrestling headgear by modernizing a product category that has seen little innovation in over 75 years, at a time when wrestling participation is rapidly expanding across the United States. Addressing persistent athlete pain points, poor fit, form, function, and hygiene concerns, we have developed a game changing Twist-for-Fit wrestling headgear combined with antimicrobial materials and sustainable components, delivering a precision-fit, high-performance solution tailored to today’s athletes. Targeting a market of over 1.9 million wrestlers, with a focus on high school and collegiate segments, including the fast-growing girls’ division with over 74,000 in high school, Antaeus leverages direct-to-consumer, team partnerships, and influence-driven marketing strategies to accelerate adoption. Currently in the prototype and MVP phase, our company has outlined a capital-efficient path to production, seeking 350k – 600k to further our product. With first-mover advantage in fit technology, deep connections within the wrestling community, and a scalable model supported by NIL partnerships and e-commerce, Antaeus is positioned to lead innovation in a booming wrestling market while pursuing long-term growth through patents, licensing, and strategic acquisition opportunities.
Riding Toward the Future: The Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation Events in Kentucky
Maia, Daniel
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
This study examines the economic impact of the Kentucky Interscholastic Cycling League (KICL) race series across five competitive seasons (2021–2025) that generated sustained benefits for host communities. Utilizing event-level direct and estimated data, including rider participation, spectator attendance, spending, and final demand economic impact, we evaluated both realized outcomes and future potential. Findings revealed consistent growth in total final demand economic impact, rising from $258,781 in 2021 to $654,677 in 2025, representing a 153% increase over the study period. Aggregate five-year economic impact totaled $2,627,749 across 4,499 total riders and an estimated 10,350 spectators. Growth over time was driven by rising participation, expanded geographic reach, and higher per capita spending. Lodging, food and beverage, and transportation consistently accounted for the largest shares of local spending. These findings suggest that youth-focused outdoor recreation events function as repeatable, scalable economic development mechanisms rather than as one-time economic stimuli. Looking ahead, the results highlight opportunities for long-term regional growth through strategic investment in trail infrastructure, host‑site capacity, and event tourism initiatives. This research positions recreation-based events as forward‑looking assets that can support resilient local economies. These findings support continued investment in youth cycling infrastructure as a viable rural economic development tool in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
MatchCall
Clapes Ballart, Ferran
Faculty Sponsor: Jebediah Gorham, PhD
MatchCall is a live scoring system designed for tennis matches without referees. In many clubs, academies, junior tournaments, and small colleges, matches do not have scoreboards, making it difficult for parents, coaches, and spectators to follow the score unless they are close to the court. In addition, match results are often recorded manually, which takes time and can lead to mistakes. MatchCall solves this problem with a small microphone device worn by players. Before announcing the score, players tap the device, and the score is automatically sent to a mobile app. Users can open the app, select a club and court, and follow matches live in real time. The system also stores match history and basic statistics. A key feature is the automatic integration with platforms like UTR, allowing match results to be recorded and shared instantly without manual input. This saves time and improves accuracy. The target market includes clubs, academies, schools, and small college programs that cannot afford referees but want a more professional environment. MatchCall’s mission is to make matches more organized and accessible, with a vision of bringing live scoring to every tennis court.