FSU Celebrates Excellence in Research and Creative Works at the 2025 Student Research Symposium

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Fayetteville State University (FSU) proudly hosted its 4th Annual Student Research Symposium on Friday, April 11, 2025, under the theme "Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities." This year's symposium was held at the Rudolph Jones Student Center, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and alums for a day dedicated to knowledge-sharing, inspiration, and academic achievement.  

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education HBCU Master's Degree Phase II Grant, FSU's Honors Program, the Lloyd College of Health, Science, and Technology, and the College of Education, the symposium was organized by a dedicated Steering Committee led by Dr. Justin Graham (Chair), Dr. Kimberly Smith-Burton (Co-Chair), and Dr. Erin White (Co-Chair).  

The event attracted 140 participants, including 51 student presenters from various disciplines, such as STEM, Education, Business, the Arts, and Social Sciences. Attendees enjoyed both virtual and in-person oral presentations, engaging poster sessions, and invaluable networking opportunities, all emphasizing the vibrancy of FSU's research culture. Participants expressed their enthusiasm, noting that the event was "great" and that they were "blown away by the level of research and the ability of students to communicate it." Many commented that the symposium was "exceptionally well-executed, engaging, and a great platform for showcasing student research." Dr. Justin Graham, the symposium chair, remarked, "We take great pride in planning and providing attendees with a quality product that benefits students while incorporating our amazing faculty and staff."  

   

The day began with a check-in and networking breakfast, where participants received FSU-branded swag, including bucket hats, umbrellas, book bags, and tech accessories. Dr. Chandrika Johnson, Dean of the College of Education, delivered opening remarks that set an energizing tone for the day.  

Morning sessions featured concurrent oral presentations showcasing innovative student research. Before the afternoon panel, Dr. Afua Arhin, Dean of the Lloyd College of Health, Science & Technology, introduced Dr. Clarence Lloyd, FSU alumnus from the class of '65. This introduction led to the Dr. Clarence Lloyd Distinguished Speakers Series-a College of Health, Science, and Technology Alumni Panel moderated by Dr. Danielle Graham, Department Chair of Biological & Forensic Sciences. Esteemed alums shared their professional journeys and insights, including:  

• Jennifer Pigford, MSN, FNP-C, Lecturer and Family Nurse Practitioner   
• Elliot O. Jackson, Esq., LL.M., Associate Attorney at Hedin LLP   
• Grace Vincent, MS, Ph.D. student at NC State University   
• Justin Evans, MS, MBA, JD, Alliance Manager at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

The afternoon included two poster sessions, a celebratory luncheon, and an awards ceremony. Attendees were captivated by keynote speaker Dr. Harold Lee III, a National Security Analyst at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, who presented a compelling look at the real-world applications of scientific research in national defense and advanced materials.  

Symposium award winners for oral presentations included Wolfgang Sanyer (1st place - $300), Joshua Sawyer (AAMU, 2nd place - $200), and Beonka Sharp (3rd place - $100). For poster presentations, the winners were Leslie Mendoza (1st place - $300), Heaven Moore & Sierra Rowe (2nd place - $200 each), and Tiffany Quick (3rd place - $100). Additionally, a new "Excellence in Research" award funded by Dr. Clarence Lloyd and given to the top Lloyd College poster was awarded to Tyronne Salters ($500).  

Reflecting on the event's success, Dr. Chandrika Johnson, COE Dean, noted, "Attending this year's symposium was truly inspiring. The dedication and expertise shown by our students and faculty reaffirm the impact of academic inquiry and collaboration. This tradition honors FSU's legacy and sets the stage for future innovations in education."  

As FSU continues elevating its research profile, the 2025 Student Research Symposium stands as a powerful testament to its commitment to academic excellence, creative exploration, and student success.