Precious Holmes to present at UW-Whitewater Undergraduate Research Day

2013 Mar 6

Months of research in science laboratories, dance studios, classrooms and libraries will be on display as the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater celebrates spring Undergraduate Research Day.

The event, which runs noon - 3 p.m., Wednesday, March 13, in the University Center Hamilton Room, is a showcase for 120 college students who conducted research projects over the last year.

Precious Holmes, a senior elementary education major from Whitewater, Wis., will present "The Positive Effects of African American Teachers on African American Students."

"The breadth and depth of research being done here is very exciting," said Catherine Chan, associate professor of biological sciences and director of the program. "Students take ownership of these projects and are mentored by dedicated faculty members who are passionate about their field."

"Many of the students received thousands of dollars in grants to conduct their research," said Samantha Samreth, director of the McNair Scholars Program. "The money helps pay for project expenses including books, consumables, equipment and travel to conferences."

One of the most prestigious is the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, which screens submissions and only accepts worthy applicants.

UW-Whitewater sends dozens of students to that event each year. Seventy-seven UW-Whitewater students, representing 2.3 percent of all invitees nationwide, will be at this year's event in La Crosse, April 11-13.