Poster Presentations 2026

Presenter(s): Viv Mallett, Aniara Ayala

Faculty Mentor(s): Keli Briggs

These posters examine diverse career pathways, including clinical exercise physiology, physical therapy, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and athletic training.  Exercise Science students play a critical role in improving individual and community well-being.

Presenter(s): Chloe Hanscom

Faculty Mentor(s): Patrick Callaway

The development of the United States national park system represents one of the earliest examples of federal environmental governance. Beginning with the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, conservation efforts gradually expanded federal responsibility for managing public lands. Influenced by preservation advocates such as John Muir and political leaders like Theodore Roosevelt, conservation became linked to national identity and public welfare. The creation of the National Park Service in 1916 and the expansion of conservation programs during the New Deal further institutionalized federal oversight of natural resources. This project examines how national parks helped legitimize and expand federal authority over environmental protection in the United States.

Presenter(s): Catherine Hoffman

Faculty Mentor(s): Chunzeng Wang

St. Mary’s catholic cemetery is located on Chapman Street in Presque Isle, Maine. It was established circa 1883 and is cared for by Parish of the Precious Blood. The goal for this project was to create a lot map of the cemetery and create a GIS database of people interred here. A drone was flown over the cemetery to take a high-resolution aerial image that was used as base map for digitization of an old cemetery map that was scanned and georeferenced, with ArcGIS Pro. A GPS was used to collect coordinates for several landmarks that were used to georeference the drone image. Names and lot IDs from the old map were put into the attribute table of the lot shapefile to provide a clear layout of each grave lot and labeled with lot ID. With this map and data, there is now an accurate list of who may be buried within the cemetery at each lot, as well as a GIS database with the names of those interred there.

Presenter(s): Anthony Poon

Faculty Mentor(s): Chunzeng Wang

This project details the transition of Westmanland Township, Maine, from an antiquated paper-based mapping system to a modern digital Geographic Information System (GIS). Prior to this initiative, the township relied on archival paper maps dating back to 1923. The methodology involved scanning and georeferencing historical records using ArcGIS Pro to digitize parcel boundaries into a comprehensive shapefile. By utilizing unique parcel IDs as relational “common keys,” the geospatial data was integrated with the municipal Excel tax database, linking critical information such as ownership, acreage, and property values. The final GIS database serves as a versatile tool for municipal management and development planning, supporting exports to .kml for Google Earth and high-resolution hard-copy production.

Presenter(s): Joseph Ryan

Faculty Mentor(s): Chunzeng Wang, Jason Johnston

The spruce budworm remains a significant threat to Maine’s spruce-fir forests, necessitating innovative detection methods such as environmental DNA (eDNA)
analysis. During Summer 2025, water and leaf litter samples were collected across Northern Maine to evaluate this approach. This project utilized ArcGIS Pro to map 54 sampling sites and delineate 47 corresponding watersheds, ranging in scale from under 10 to over five million acres. By integrating topographic data with hydrology layers, the project established a spatial framework to track eDNA transport. This GIS database serves as a critical tool for predicting future outbreaks and managing forest resilience by synthesizing hydrological flow with tree species distribution.

Presenter(s): Chloe Hanscom, Esmae Stockley, Ellie Morrell, Cathy Ryder, Aspen Mitchell, Milaya Buchanan, Kylie LaPlante

Faculty Mentor(s): Amy Joy Berube

UMPI UNITE connects the campus on the hill with the communities around it. We partner with local businesses to promote campus and athletic events while creating discounts for students, faculty, and alumni that encourage support. In return, we spotlight and support those businesses through volunteer efforts and collaborative events. This helps build a stronger relationship between UMPI and the region we call home.

Presenter(s): Nicholas Anderson

Faculty Mentor(s): Udaya Jayasundara

Mapping water quality in the Aroostook River is an important step in understanding the health of the river ecosystem and identifying potential environmental impacts. The river flows through Aroostook County, a region known for its extensive agriculture, forests, and rural communities. Because these land uses can influence water conditions, monitoring and mapping water quality helps researchers evaluate how natural and human activities affect the river.

This project focuses on collecting water samples from different locations along the river during the four seasons. Samples are tested using water quality kits to measure parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrients, and other indicators of water health. By comparing results from different sampling sites and seasons, researchers can identify patterns or changes in water quality.

The collected data are then mapped to visually show how water quality varies along the river. This mapping process helps highlight areas that may need conservation or further study. The results are also compared with guidelines from the United States Environmental Protection Agency to determine whether the river meets recommended water quality standards.

Presenter(s): Wan Ting Huo, Dhruv Jain, Alice Ziegler, Gabriel Kirmani, Thomas Nonken, Ariana Yin, Benjamin Uhlenhake, Lilian Gorneau, Mia Shaw

Faculty Mentor(s): Eugene Katsman

Throughout this project we have used CAD to not only model existing parts that we ordered online, but also to create our very own parts using industry standard part manufacturing processes for both plastic and aluminium. We also have used CAD to create build plans, from the platform everything lies on to the layout and tube length that connect our pumps and tanks.

Presenter(s): Paladin Gibson

Faculty Mentor(s): Larry Feinstein

Polyfluoroalkyl substance contamination in soil poses a threat to ecological and human health. The presence of PFAS in Aroostook Maine soils is significantly higher than established EPA limits, decontamination of which can be facilitated by PFAS degrading microbes already present in the soil. Many PFAS degrading bacterial and fungal strains have been identified, but more strains capable of PFAS degradation in various conditions are needed for decontamination efforts. Here the identification of PFAS degrading microbes in Aroostook Maine soils is carried out to expand the inventory of biological tools for PFAS decontamination.

Presenter(s): Wan Ting Huo, Dhruv Jain, Alice Ziegler, Gabriel Kirmani, Thomas Nonken, Ariana Yin, Benjamin Uhlenhake, Lilian Gorneau, Mia Shaw

Faculty Mentor(s): Eugene Katsman

Biodiesel was synthesized from Waste Canola Oil via transesterification using a Potassium Hydroxide catalyst. A maximum yield of 91% was achieved under our optimal conditions (6:1 molar ratio between oil and methanol, 1.00 wt% catalyst, 55 °C, ~20 hours reaction time). The presence of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAMEs) is in the process of being verified with assistance from Mr. Zack Waickman (Loyola University), and attempts to characterize the biodiesel through TLC were also performed.

Presenter(s): Wan Ting Huo, Dhruv Jain, Alice Ziegler, Gabriel Kirmani, Thomas Nonken, Ariana Yin, Benjamin Uhlenhake, Lilian Gorneau, Mia Shaw

Faculty Mentor(s): Eugene Katsman

System components are primarily stainless steel or PTFE due to their resistance to biodiesel. The system itself runs on both AC and DC current, enabling us to use the components with our preferred specifications without concern for power sources. We have also worked with SMP Manufacturing and our instructor to handle the machining of stainless steel components. The actual construction of the system puts design into practicality, allowing us to test the effectiveness of theoretical systems and make adjustments as required.

Presenter(s): Whitley Green, Kailee Sprague, Karoline Dillenbeck

Faculty Mentor(s): Juidth Roe

Lumbriculus variegatus (California blackworm) is growing in popularity as a research model for regeneration. Through amputation experiments, histology, RNA sequencing, and live photography, we examined the general anatomy of L. variegatus in different stages of regeneration over 7 days and followed tissue changes using paraffin sectioning and staining for cellular structures. Collagen staining revealed no evidence of collagen formation in the regenerating ends at 12, 24, 48 or 72 hours. We investigated changes in transcript abundance during regeneration using RNA-Seq. Clustering of fold change data revealed genetic differences in gene expression patterns over the course of regeneration.

Presenter(s): Garrett Dora

Faculty Mentor(s): Jason Johnston

The Spruce Budworm (SBW) severely threatens Maine’s northern forests, making early detection critical to mitigating ecological damage. To supplement existing monitoring, we investigated environmental DNA (eDNA) as a tool for detecting low-density pest populations at a watershed scale. We collected leaf litter and water samples from first-order streams and rivers across spruce-fir stands with varying known SBW infestation levels. By sequencing eDNA from these substrates, we evaluated whether leaf litter, small streams, or large rivers provide the optimal detection matrix. Ultimately, this research demonstrates that eDNA offers forest managers a scalable, early-warning system to protect Maine’s forest ecosystems.

Presenter(s): Kylie-Michelle LaPlante, Lindsey Desroches

Faculty Mentor(s): Stacy Thibodeau

The purpose of this project is to examine the effects of music therapy on mood and cognitive function in older adults diagnosed with dementia. Specifically, this review will aim to evaluate current evidence regarding music therapy and its impact on global cognition, memory, psychological symptoms, and daily functioning, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. By analyzing recent research studies, this project seeks to determine whether or not music therapy is an effective evidence-based complementary intervention for improving the quality of life and supporting patient -centered care in individuals with dementia.

Presenter(s): Milaya Buchanan

Faculty Mentor(s): Jason Johnston

Arthropods are essential components for forest ecosystems due to their role in supporting food webs and serving as indicators of forest health. Some insects are native, such as the Eastern Spruce Budworm (SBW) and introduced invasive species such as Emerald Ash Borer (EAB). Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a new approach that detects all pest species and assesses overall biodiversity. The goal of the project is to help stakeholders better detect forest pests and biodiversity to project the Northern Forest’s ecological, economic, and cultural value and avoid emerging threats.

Presenter(s): Brooke Gardner

Faculty Mentor(s): Jason Johnston

Canada Lynx are a challenging species population to detect due to their low densities, wide home ranges, and their behavior. There are traditional ways that have been used to help detect lynx in their habitats such as camera traps but they can miss individuals especially in dense forests or in their low activity periods. Environmental DNA is a new way that offers a complementary, noninvasive method for detecting species through genetic material that is left behind in bodies of water and streams. This study is evaluating whether weather testing in stream and beaver ponds is a better way to detect lynx rather than the use of camera traps in the region of Maine. Water samples were collected on the first day from a stream and a beaver pond. I had then set up a camera trap in that area as well. In the end both results came back negative to showing signs of lynx in that area. But I think if I had more samples and more time I could have been able to collect a sign that this endangered species can be detected in either methods in better hope of helping to monitor lynx in forested ecosystems to better understand this species and guide conservation problems.

Presenter(s): Anthony Talleff

Faculty Mentor(s): Matthew Wellhead

This study explores the use of Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) as a disinfectant in greenhouse environments. HOCl was applied to plant surfaces and greenhouse tables to manage plant diseases such as downy mildew in basil varieties. A diluted solution was used for direct plant treatment, while more concentrated applications may be used to sanitize contaminated soil. Results indicate that HOCl is an effective and environmentally friendly sanitizer with multipurpose functions.

Presenter(s): Wan Ting Huo, Dhruv Jain, Alice Ziegler, Gabriel Kirmani, Thomas Nonken, Ariana Yin, Benjamin Uhlenhake, Lilian Gorneau, Mia Shaw

Faculty Mentor(s): Eugene Katsman

High free fatty acid percentages can prevent a complete biodiesel reaction from taking place. We are using waste cooking oil for a biodiesel reaction which tends to have a higher free fatty acid percentage than unused oil. The glycerolysis process involves adding glycerol and a catalyst to the oil and heating it. We formed our procedure using several other procedures and tested it using titration with sodium hydroxide.

Presenter(s): Chandler White

Faculty Mentor(s): Mark Royer

Our project highlights a bioinformatics data processing pipeline built from a set of open-source tools to support a broader biological research goal: detecting destructive arthropods in the northern Maine woods. We develop a web-based application built on open-source software to analyze environmental DNA (eDNA) and detect the presence of destructive arthropod species, namely the Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis) and the Spruce Budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana). Data is stored and processed using BLASTn to generate reports detailing the biological profile of the sampled area and providing insights into the presence of these problematic insects.

Presenter(s): Tucker Koch, Roger Rowe, Harleigh Langley, Prince Koranteng, Aden Perry, George Ladd, Chandler White, Mayan Pratt

Faculty Mentor(s): Mark Royer

One of the more common programming languages for data science applications is Python, which allows scientists to collect, manipulate, analyze, format, and visualize data. In the research learning experience at the University of Maine at Presque Isle during the fall semester of 2025, we learned key Python programming topics, including data types and structures, control flow, functions, and scientific libraries (NumPy, pandas, and matplotlib). We also were given examples of Python coding being used to aid scientists in real world scenarios, for instance the Greenland Ice Sheet Project (Or GISP2 for short).

Presenter(s): Tariq Martin, Alexsea Cholewa, Cherish Cole, Joel Cormier, Kalen Coleman

Faculty Mentor(s): Jason Johnston

This poster will present a range of media and social media perspectives, as well as evidence from the scientific literature to engage the reader in thoughtful reflection about the effectiveness and purported negative impacts of various vaccines.

Presenter(s): Mayan Pratt

Faculty Mentor(s): Mark Royer

The Indendro project at the University of Maine is developing low‑cost, easy‑to‑install dendrometer sensors that continuously monitor tree growth and overall forest health. Our work centers on creating a flexible web application that allows researchers, students, and land managers to explore incoming sensor data through mapping, plotting, and other Python‑based analytical tools. The platform aims to make complex ecological data more accessible while supporting long‑term environmental monitoring efforts. Ongoing technical challenges, planned enhancements, and broader project goals will be described.

Session 1 – 9:15 to 10:10am

Presenter(s): Lauren Lister; Briana Perez; Cady Stairs; Vicky Sands

Faculty Mentor(s): Tomasz Herzog 

Location: Folsom 204

The presentation explores the impact of food insecurity on education within the broader context of socioeconomic inequality. Focusing on the distinction between equality and equity, it examines how socioeconomic status influences access to educational resources, learning conditions, and academic opportunity. the presentation further considers how food insecurity affects student engagement, well-being, and achievement. A case study will be used to illustrate how these interconnected challenges shape students’ educational experiences in practice.

Presenter(s): Christie Oneill, Tucker Koch

Faculty Mentor(s): Jennifer Lynds 

Location: Pullen 210

“The University Times 2.0: Digital Tools, Diverse Perspectives” highlights how, since the last University Day presentation two years ago, student journalists have enhanced the website with new video and audio features, creating a more dynamic and engaging news experience for readers. This presentation will showcase how these upgrades allow for richer storytelling and improved accessibility across platforms. It will also explore how the team has expanded its reach by welcoming more YourPace student journalists, ensuring a broader range of voices and perspectives are represented. Additionally, the session will discuss new and improved social media strategies designed to increase readership, boost engagement, and strengthen connections with the campus community.

Session 2 – 10:20 to 11:15am

Presenter(s): Thomas Nonken

Faculty Mentor(s): Teri St. Pierre

Location: Folsom 203

The Fibonacci Sequence belongs to a much broader family of sequences that all follow the same set of rules. This talk extends recent work done with the Fibonacci Sequence to the rest of the family. Specifically, I explore the properties of G(k)/H(k), where G(k) is an infinite sum over each sequence and H(k) is an approximation. The central question is whether, for each individual sequence, H(k) may be used as a substitute while maintaining sufficient accuracy. I will address this question across all structural cases determined by properties found within the family of sequences.

Presenter(s): Ian Albert, Chris Bouchard, Letty Frakes, Damien Pearson

Faculty Mentor(s): Deborah Hodgkins

Location: Pullen 210

Students will read works of poetry, fiction, and/or creative nonfiction selected for publication in this year’s issue of Upcountry, the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s student literary journal.

Presenter(s): Eve Griffiths

Faculty Mentor(s): Shannon Sleeper

Location: Pullen 215 (via Zoom)

Abstract Pending

Session 3 – 1:15 to 2:10pm

Presenter(s): Ethan Whitty

Faculty Mentor(s): Kimberly Jones

Location: Folsom 203

From June 2025 until January 2026, I participated in the Disney College Program, which is an internship for current and recently graduated college students. It is a time in which
you are placed in a role, and you get to “create magic” for all types of guests. During this time, I have learned many skills that will benefit my career and personal life. In my presentation, I discuss what I did while working at Disney and what I learned from it. I include why I chose to work for Disney that everyone should take advantages of opportunities they have.

Presenter(s): Lauren DeMerchant

Faculty Mentor(s): Lisa Leduc

Location: Folsom 204

UMPI’s policy scholar has been focusing on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the need for programs that concentrate on outdoor/animal based programming for
youth affected. Also research regarding funds allotted to these kinds of programs in the state.

Further investigation on whether or not Mainecare covers these kinds of programs.

Reducing correctional costs and the financial savings that apply by having youth in these kinds of programs as opposed to detention centers.

Therapeutic vs. life coaching, how to increase service availability – incentives for therapists to partake in these programs to increase availability. 

Waiting lists and how to reduce them (refers to the above as well), and reducing funds allotted budget wise to make more appealing/incentivize.

Presenter(s): Hannah Chartier, Derrick Payne

Faculty Mentor(s): Richard Simpson

Location: Pullen 210

This panel brings together two writers who have transformed deeply personal sports injuries into meaningful research on how athletes get hurt and how they heal. Drawing on their own experiences with non-contact ACL injury and concussion in high-contact sport, they investigate the neurological and environmental factors that shape injury risk, recovery, and return-to-play—offering an inspiring look at how lived experience can drive powerful scholarly work relevant to students across all majors.

Session 4 – 2:20 to 3:15pm

Presenter(s): Whitley Green, Alex Olmstead, Paladin Gibson

Faculty Mentor(s): Judith Roe

Location: Folsom 203

The Maine IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) is an NIH-funded grant led by MDI Biological Laboratory (MDIBL) to strengthen job preparedness for students in Maine’s Universities in STEM fields. We will share stories of how students can participate in various activities including performing research in faculty members’ labs, joining other Maine students at MDIBL for a week-long Biomedical Short Course, traveling to attend conferences, and embarking on summer-long research experiences in mentors’ labs. These types of activities provide engaging and invaluable real-world experiences that enable students to improve their technical skills and opportunities to enhance their resumes.

Presenter(s): Alexis Ganzel, Rylee Davenport, Danielle Moser, Madison Boynton, Matt Adrien, Isiah Mitchell, Abby Doughty

Faculty Mentor(s): Lisa Leduc

Location: Folsom 204

Students in CRJ 358 will share important information about the services of their community partner, the Hope and Justice Project. This local domestic violence resource center serves families affected by domestic violence in Aroostook County. This semester, working with HJP, the students have been reviewing and analyzing domestic violence data to help their community partner in preparation for future grant applications to support their work. Students will report their work in progress on this service learning project, successes and challenges, as well as connections to course content.

Presenter(s): Ryan Lemire, Peter Rogers, Lee Kerecman

Faculty Mentor(s): Heather Nunez

Location: Pullen Gallery (via Zoom)

This PechaKucha series offers a rapid-fire look into the experimental methodologies, research, and material explorations of our graduating artists. Moving beyond the polished final gallery presentation, students narrate the physical and intellectual labor behind their portfolios, spending just twenty seconds on each pivotal moment of creation. This dynamic format challenges seniors to distill months of studio inquiry into concise visual essays, highlighting the “productive failures” and technical breakthroughs that define their practice. By bridging the gap between concept and craft, these presentations offer a rare, intimate window into the alchemy of the artist’s studio and the evolution of a signature style.

Session 5 – 3:25 to 4:20pm

Presenter(s): Jade Anspach, George Ladd, Parker Smith, Angelita Hernandez, Allen Morrill

Faculty Mentor(s): Angelita Hernandez

Location: Folsom 203

Come, contribute to a discussion of the history of UMPI as we share the research
process for the upcoming 125 th  Celebration.  Find out how we discovered the link
between The St. John’s School and The Aroostook State Normal School. Learn how we
grew from 17 students and 5 acres of land in 1903 to the UMPI we know and love today.

Presenter(s): Ian Albert

Faculty Mentor(s): Richard Simpson

Location: Pullen 210

We will be talking about the process of making our first short film as well as what we hope to achieve with the club.