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Students Showcase Research for Inauguration Week

Students presented research in Muskingum’s Student Scholarship Showcase April 5, part of President Susan S. Hasseler’s Inauguration Week celebration.

This showcase was different from previous research events as this presentation encompassed students and majors from all across campus.

“We’re very pleased with the number of student participants and research projects,” said Science Division Coordinator Paul Szalay. “It’s a nice cross-section of the academic program.”

The showcase featured 36 projects from 19 major areas. Topics ranged from sciences, psychology, sociology, math, athletic training, education, political science, economics, theatre, accounting, business, English, and communication.

Rashelle Lashley, senior neuroscience major, explains her research on the effects of ginger extract to people attending the Student Scholarship Showcase April 5. Photo: Brenna Busby

Projects included glow-in-the-dark animals, editing Shakespeare, the best material to make dental implants, effects of diabetes, and analyzing “Harry Potter” from communication and theatre perspectives.

Student participants were welcomed to large crowds from the campus and community. “We’re very happy with the number of guests that have taken advantage,” said Szalay.

Muskingum University senior Sarah Gotschall presents her psychology research concerning the topic of self-esteem. Photo: Brenna Busby

Muskingum University President Susan S. Hasseler said the research showcase fits with the theme of the week.

“The whole theme of the week is celebrating our community and our calling, and our students are just showing their amazing skills and interests and it’s just wonderful,” said Hasseler.

Hasseler said she was proud of the work both students and faculty dedicated to the event.

Muskingum students from 19 majors participated in the Student Scholarship Showcase April 5. Photo: Brenna Busby

“The amount of work our student are doing, the senior seminars, the depth of the projects, it’s very impressive, and I would just like to say thank you to everyone for putting this together for this week,” said Hasseler.

Hasseler said the event helped to demonstrate the depth of Muskingum’s student involvement to the community. Hasseler’s inauguration ceremony is Friday, April 7 at 2 p.m. in the Anne C. Steele Center. Learn more about Inauguration Week.

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Pippin paves “Extraordinary” Launch of Inauguration Week

The spring musical “Pippin” was presented by the Muskingum University Communication, Media, & Theatre and Music Departments March 30 – April 2.

The musical, performed in the Sandra Wolfe Thompson Theatre in Philip and Betsey Caldwell Hall, was the final theatre performance for the school year.

“It has been a major commitment from vocalists, accompanists, and a massive collaboration from all departments,” said Professor of Theatre Diane Rao.

Elijah Branham, as the lead Pippin, sings “Corner of the Sky” in the first act.

Muskingum University sophomore Eli Branham played Pippin during the four-day production. The musical focused on the journey of the title character as he attempted to find his pace in life.

“This is a lot of hard work but it does pay off, we all have dedicated a lot of time and this has been a very satisfying experience,” said Branham.

“Pippin” was the final production for Technical Director and Associate Professor of Communication and Theatre Ron Lauck, who will retire after a 31-year career at Muskingum.

“Since this is Ron Lauck’s last show here at the university, we really want to send him off with a bang,” said Rao.

Mallory Fischer, the Leading Player, guides Pippin on his journey to a fulfilling life. Photo: Marty Kurtz

The Tony Award-winning “Pippin” made its Broadway debut in 1972. The playwright was Roger O. Hirson and music was composed by Steven Schwartz, who is known for his work with “Wicked.” This was the first time “Pippin” was performed at Muskingum.

The “Pippin” cast included Branham with Mallory Fischer as the Leading Player, Johanna Whetstone as Fastrada, Nicholas McInturff as Charles, Lane Hunt as Lewis, Kaylee Piatt as Catherine, Zackary Devoll as Theo, and Caroline Heading as Berthe. The Band of Players included Kenzie Back, Ryan Burkhart, Sarah Crawford, Brian Lewis, Elyse Meyers, and Donald Purkey.

The cast of “Pippin” finish their rendition of “Magic to Do.” Photo: Marty Kurtz

The musical was under the direction team of Rao, Assistant Professor of Music Emily Oehrtman, Associate Professor of Communication Gene Alesandrini, and Stage Manager Tricia LePage with Assistant Professor of Music David Turrill as conductor for the live 12-member orchestra.

The Sunday finale performance of the show kicked off Inauguration Week, celebrating Muskingum’s 21st President Dr. Susan S. Hasseler.