As part of an annual tradition at the end of the school year, Niagara University undergraduate students have the opportunity to present scholarly research for the Undergraduate and Graduate Research Conference (UGGRC). Approximately 142 students across various academic disciplines took part in a panel presentation or poster session that showcased their work on May 1, 2026, as a part of this year’s conference. This year’s conference featured 35 panel presentations and 78 poster presentations. The Undergraduate Research Conference is sponsored by Niagara University’s Honors Program.
The following are some examples of research project that was showcased this year:
- Heidi Pauta presented “Nurses’ Perceptions and Role in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy.”
- Lauren Ervolina presented “Nuclear Development Combined with Game Theory.”
- Tricia Toth presented “Engagement in the Classroom Through Seating Arrangement.”
- Emma McNab presented “Pressure on the Pitch: Group Environment, Coaching Behaviors, and Their Impact on Anxiety and Performance in Collegiate Rugby.”
- Nate Milk presented “All Good Things Come to an End: Survival Analysis in Major League Baseball.”
- Dillon Cruz presented “Regulation After the Fact: Artificial Intelligence and Reactive Policymaking in the U.S.”
This selection showcases the wide variety of topics covered at the conference. From nursing to teaching to baseball statistics, the students have the ability to dive into a topic that interests them at a profound level of depth. The experience leads students to further develop their skills in research, writing, and presenting.
The Niagara University Honors Program would like to congratulate the following students who will be graduating with University Honors at the end of the spring or summer semesters:
- Miguel Castaneda
- Bayleigh Clark
- Dillon Cruz
- Enedu David-Maji
- Ryan Ensminger
- Lauren Ervolina
- Isaac Evans
- Patrick Hennegan
- Elsie Hilmey
- Zachary Holmes
- Adrian Martinez
- Emma McNab
- Nathan Milk
- Kiera Moisan
- Julia Nielsen
- Heidi Pauta
- Jillian Pierce
- Elise Spence
- Tricia Toth
Students in the honors program work one-on-one with a NU faculty member and conduct original, groundbreaking research for their capstone thesis projects. Honors students enjoy a unique educational experience with smaller, specialized honors-exclusive classes. These classes feature innovative teaching methods and foster close interactions with peers and faculty. For more information, visit www.niagara.edu/academics/honors-program/.
