Cedarville University

Despite growing up where the only waves are the ripples in a sea of corn, Sara McElroy of Marietta, Ohio, always had a fascination with the ocean. That passion recently led McElroy, who graduated in May from Cedarville University with a degree in biology, to complete a semester-long Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) internship with the Bermuda Institute for Ocean Sciences (BIOS) through Arizona State University (ASU). "I'm so thankful God gave me this opportunity to see what marine research looks like," said McElroy. "He's such an amazing Creator, and that's what I love about science. As we go deeper and deeper, we see how everything is so intertwined. To take one factor out displaces everything." During the internship, McElroy conducted a research project studying how repeated heat stress affects the protein levels in coral. Her work contributed to a larger project called ENCORE, which focuses on understanding what factors influence coral response to environmental stressors.

Cedarville University's Model United Nations (UN) team brought home a Distinguished Delegation award - one of the top honors - from the National Model United Nations conference held in New York City. Cedarville represented Belarus. "Having so many different cultural backgrounds on the team allowed us to have a broader perspective on global issues and presented more opportunities to connect with other delegates," said Bryn Golson, a history major with an international studies minor. Golson, raised in South Africa, said her upbringing sparked an early interest in international affairs. She now hopes to join the United States Department of State as a diplomat. "Growing up overseas gave me a broader understanding of and appreciation for the complexities of foreign policy and relations," said Golson. "I was excited to hone these skills on the Model UN team and develop other skills necessary for diplomacy, like research, public speaking and listening."

CEDARVILLE, OHIO - There is a growing crisis in intercollegiate athletics, and it goes far deeper than competition and the rising cost to develop a roster. According to the National Athletic Trainers' Association, college athletics is struggling with a labor crisis that began, in essence, with the "Great Resignation" in the post-COVID-19 pandemic. Today, colleges and universities are finding it more difficult to recruit, hire and retain athletic training professionals. Cedarville University allied health faculty and students are involved in combatting this crisis. In 2012, the Ohio Athletic Trainers' Association (OATA), with the help of Cedarville's Dr. Genna Fusco, launched a student senate to organize educational initiatives and help develop the next generation of athletic training leaders.

When Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed from cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals two years ago, the incident shocked the nation. It also heightened awareness of emergency medical conditions in athletics. Inspired by the lack of research on emergency action planning (EAP) for collegiate athletes, Kyler Conn - a second-year Master of Athletic Training (MAT) student at Cedarville University from Washington Court House, Ohio - launched a study for his master's thesis. He was moved to act after watching Hamlin's medical emergency unfold live on television. Conn's research aims to examine how EAPs are currently implemented and to promote best practices for emergency preparedness in collegiate athletic programs nationwide.

A team of Cedarville University senior engineering students is preparing to launch a high-powered rocket as part of NASA's prestigious Student Launch competition. This nationwide challenge tests the ingenuity and collaboration of the next generation of engineers. Cedarville's team, comprised of students in mechanical, electrical and computer engineering, will participate in a local launch on Saturday, April 26, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., depending on weather conditions. The launch will be held during the Wright Stuff Rocketeers (WSR) High Power Launch at 5995 Federal Road in Cedarville, Ohio, with support from WSR, the team's National Association of Rocketry (NAR)-certified sponsor.

Cedarville University made its debut at the 16th annual Aerospace Propulsion Outreach Program (APOP) poster session on April 17, presenting an innovative variable nozzle design at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio. Hosted by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in collaboration with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Propulsion Directorate, APOP provides undergraduate engineering students with a hands-on opportunity to collaborate with Air Force engineers on real-world aerospace propulsion challenges.

Engineering is one of the fastest-growing career fields in the world, but not all countries provide students with a pathway for engineering education. One engineering senior design team at Cedarville University is addressing this need with the development of SafeTown, an affordable, educational autonomous robot kit that can teach engineering fundamentals anywhere in the world. Before the project has even been completed, SafeTown is already making impacts in engineering education opportunities. Through a Cedarville connection with the Central Asia Engineering Dentistry Medicine Institute (CAEDMI), the student-developed autonomous robot kit will soon be utilized in real classrooms across Central Asia.

By training the next generation of pharmacists in advanced data analytics, Cedarville University's School of Pharmacy is equipping future health care professionals with the skills to improve patient outcomes and drive public health innovations through the Sparx Analytics Datathon. Cedarville University's Center for Pharmacy Innovation partnered with Sparx Analytics to offer Doctor of Pharmacy students a unique opportunity to engage in pharmacy data analytics through the Sparx Analytics Datathon. In its second year, the analytics competition challenged students from pharmacy schools nationwide to analyze real-world health care data, develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and present visually compelling dashboards with actionable insights.

He cracked the code and now the Greene County Commissioners are going to honor him for this national accomplishment. Kaicheng Ye, a senior from Beavercreek, Ohio will be recognized by the Greene County Commissioners on Friday, May 2 for successfully solving the 2022 NSA Codebreaker Challenge. Out of 6,000 participants nationwide, only 100 individuals solved the challenge, placing Ye among an elite group of cybersecurity problem-solvers.

On Saturday, March 22, Cedarville University students came together for the first-ever Jog-A-Thon, an exciting community event sponsored by the university's Allied Health Student Organization (AHSO). Held at the Cedarville University track field, the event aimed to raise funds and strengthen community ties by supporting the Cedarville Senior Center, a vital resource for local seniors. A diverse group of participants, ranging from eight-year-olds to eighty-year-olds, laced up their running shoes to take part in the event. Cedarville Mayor John Cody kicked off the Jog-A-Thon with the ceremonial use of a starter pistol and proceeded to run three miles himself.

Country music lovers can catch Cedarville University senior Payton Burdette every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. on "The New Roots Rundown" on Real Roots Radio 100.3 FM. Burdette, with his deep passion for the genre, shares the latest hits and stories, giving listeners a front-row seat to the vibrant world of country music. Burdette's journey from writing commercials to becoming an on-air talent is a testament to his creative drive and adaptability. A native of Xenia, Ohio, Burdette came to Cedarville with dreams of scriptwriting and a love for comedy. As a sophomore, he became president of LOL, the university's improv comedy group, where he learned to think on his feet and entertain live audiences. He credits this experience for preparing him for radio.

Two million people visit Maui, Hawaii, each year. While the majority of the visitors are attracted to Maui by its stunning beaches, towering waterfalls, and vibrant sunsets, 14 students from Cedarville University came to the island for a different reason - to help residents rebuild after the devastating wildfires that swept across the island in August in 2023. The fires, the deadliest in Hawaii's statehood, left more than 100 dead and destroyed over 3,000 homes. For many on the island's west side, recovery remains a painful and ongoing process. Cedarville's team of 14 students, led by Col. (Ret.) Gregory Thompson, professor of criminal justice, and Dr. Patrick Oliver, associate professor of criminal justice, made it their mission to bring comfort and aid to those suffering in the wake of the disaster. Despite the geographical distance - over 4,000 miles separate Cedarville from Maui - an unexpected series of connections came together. These divine appointments created a tapestry of faith and provision that led the team to the island. "There were so many providential connections from people here at Cedarville to Maui," said Thompson, reflecting on how the team's journey unfolded. "We were in awe of God's faithfulness to answer so many prayers for this trip every step of the way." A key part of the trip's success was Thompson's personal connection to the Hawaiian Islands. As a JAG officer in the United States Air Force, Thompson lived on the island of Oahu for six years before he joined the faculty at Cedarville two years ago. During his time living in Hawaii, Thompson had developed ministry connections through his local church and through his service as a leader in Men's Bible Study Fellowship on the islands of Oahu, Maui, and the big island of Hawaii.

A team of Cedarville University engineering students is gearing up to compete in one of the nation's most innovative contests - racing electric-powered boats. From April 15-17, Cedarville will join over 40 teams at First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach, Virginia, for the Promoting Electric Propulsion (PEP) competition. The purpose of the competition is to push the boundaries of clean energy technology while testing engineering skills in a high-stakes race for innovation. The PEP for Small Craft Competition, organized by the American Society of Naval Engineers (ASNE), is promoting the event in the United States. Along with Cedarville University, college students from Princeton University, Stevens Institute of Technology, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Texas A&M and Auburn University will compete.

The intersection of faith and literature was the focal point of the recent Conference on Christianity and Literature, where Cedarville University students and faculty presented their scholarly work. Held at Grove City College in Pennsylvania on February 21-22, the event featured a keynote address by award-winning author and musician Andrew Peterson and brought together scholars, writers and students to engage in discussions about how literature reflects and shapes Christian faith. Dr. Stephen Schuler, professor of English at Cedarville University, played a pivotal role in leading the university's participation. He, along with Dr. Michelle Wood, professor of English, and Dr. Alicia McCartney, assistant professor of English, presented on a range of topics from American and British literature to the differing academic plagiarism policies between Christian and secular universities.

A simple hobby has turned into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Cedarville University sophomore Timmy Goodman. His handcrafted embroidery pieces caught the eye of Dolly Parton's creative director, Steve Summers, leading to a dream collaboration - Goodman's work will soon be displayed at Parton's upcoming Nashville hotel, Songteller, set to open in 2026. What began as a personal passion has flourished into Bluegrass Threads, Goodman's thriving embroidery business specializing in portraits, home decor and apparel. With unwavering support from his family, the guidance of Cedarville's entrepreneurship program and his deep love for country music, Goodman is proving that creativity, hard work and faith can turn even the most unexpected talents into something extraordinary.

Megan Frieling is not afraid to tackle life's most challenging topics. Through film, she addresses life's toughest issues, including loneliness, depression, suicide and social pressure, while weaving in the hope of Christ. Frieling, who is studying broadcasting, digital media and journalism at Cedarville University, believes that faith-based films are rising in popularity and that now is her opportunity to showcase her faith by telling stories of hope during difficult times. The junior from Cedarville, Ohio, is already making her mark as a young filmmaker. She produced the short film "Centennial," which won Cedarville's Elliv film competition last year. Her portfolio covers a range of genres, from lighthearted comedies to more serious, thought-provoking films.

From friendly family debates at the kitchen table to competing for Cedarville University on the national stage, Cara and Zane Enos have been a team since birth. With their mother as their coach and their older brother competing, the twins were immersed in speech and debate from an early age. Their fascination with speech and debate created a special bond within the family from their shared dedication to the craft. The freshman siblings from Colorado Springs, Colorado, brought their passion and talent in communication to Cedarville University's forensics team. Their energy and passion for excellence has proven to be a winning combination for Cedarville.

Cedarville University pharmacy students Judah Brammer and Halley McClain took first place in the clinical skills competition at the Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA) Conference in March at Ohio State University. The third-year students, both from Springfield, Ohio, competed against teams from 15 other schools, including the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, The Ohio State University and The University of Texas at Tyler. The competition, which involved a five-minute patient interaction simulation, tested participants on clinical skills, communication, and holistic patient care. Brammer and McClain stood out for their clinical competence, empathy and ability to connect with the patient, earning high praise from judges.

Women remain vastly underrepresented in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. What was once a specialized sector has now become an essential part of everyday life, protecting everything from personal information and online transactions to national infrastructure and digital communities. Yet according to International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), a leading member association for cybersecurity professionals, women only comprise 20% of this workforce. Through the Women in Cybersecurity (WiCys) organization, the women studying cybersecurity, Information Tech Management, Cyber Operations and Computer Science at Cedarville University are seeking to foster community and encourage one another to succeed in this male-dominated field. What started as a group of four women in WiCyS has grown to 40 members since 2025. This group focuses on building community through mentorship and fellowship, organizing monthly events like coffee chats and study breaks. These gatherings offer women the chance to support and uplift each other in their cybersecurity studies.

Cedarville University's Forensics Team won an important victory at the prestigious Pi Kappa Delta Honor Society tournament, held March 13-16 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Cedarville's team won top honors competing against the nation's best, including teams from the University of Alabama, Ohio University, and Whitworth University. The team's performance not only showcased their skills but also cemented their place among the country's elite forensics programs. The tournament marked Cedarville's largest forensics competition to date, with students excelling in both debate and oratory. A standout achievement came in Reader's theatre, where Cedarville's team won the competition, outperforming seven other teams. Reader's theatre, a unique event, requires teams of three to seven members to develop and deliver a 25-minute performance centered on a specific theme.

After an injury forced her to abandon a promising soccer career, Aly Rooke was faced with a devastating setback. But what seemed like a tragic end turned into an extraordinary opportunity - the start of Alyeliane Nails, a nail art business that is capturing the attention of women across social media. Rooke, who is a sophomore marketing major at Cedarville University, started the nail venture as a creative outlet to heal from a soccer injury that sidelined her career. Now, this business has blossomed into an extraordinary community that fuels Rooke's passion for artistry.

Facing personal insecurities can lay the groundwork for building confidence and inspiring others. Luisa Guzman, a sophomore exercise science student at Cedarville University, transformed her insecurities into a thriving online personal training business designed to help women gain confidence, improve mental health and achieve fitness goals. After graduating from high school, Guzman, originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, attended the Word of Life Bible Institute in Hudson, Florida. From her experience in Florida, she felt called to complete her education at Cedarville University.

On select Saturdays, Cedarville University students set aside their packed schedules for something deeper - intentional conversations about faith, leadership and discipleship. Hosted by the Student Government Association (SGA), these monthly programs focus on relevant topics for young men and women and foster biblical wisdom, mentorship and community. With coffee in hand, young men gather at 10 a.m. to engage in discussions led by pastors, professors and community leaders. Later, at 7 p.m., female students come together for an evening of candid conversations and biblical encouragement led by a panel of women. Through shared experiences, thought-provoking topics and spiritual mentorship, these events impact students beyond the classroom.

While many people don't think human trafficking happens in their communities, the issue is prevalent across the state of Ohio. Educating the public and college students about human trafficking in the greater Dayton region is the focus of a special town hall on Monday, March 24, at Cedarville University. The event, "#4 In the Nation: Confronting Human Trafficking in Ohio," is sponsored by Cedarville's Title IX office and student International Justice Mission (IJM) chapter in partnership with Dear Dinah, a ministry in Dayton that creates safe spaces for survivors and raises awareness about human trafficking.

Saving its best performance for the National Christian College Forensic Association's national tournament secured a national championship for Cedarville University. The Cedarville forensics team garnered 45% of the available points to easily outdistance the competition claiming its national title. The tournament held March 7-9, at Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, saw Cedarville's team win the top spot in in the speech division and second place in the debate division. The team also took home the prestigious Quality Award, given to the team that earns the highest percentage of points relative to the number of entries.

CEDARVILLE, OHIO - Moving earth for heaven's sake is the purpose of a team of Cedarville University engineering students. The students are going beyond the classroom to build a custom-made earth mover that will equip a hospital in Zimbabwe to keep its roads accessible and its doors open to those in need. Nearly two years ago, Cedarville's School of Engineering launched a senior design project to create an affordable, tractor-mounted earth mover for Karanda Mission Hospital. Now, a new team of students is bringing that vision to life, planning to complete and deliver the machine to the hospital by the end of May. Karanda Mission Hospital serves the physical and spiritual needs of Zimbabwe's northwest region. Due to the hospital's remote location away from heavily populated areas, reliable road access is critical. During Zimbabwe's rainy season, dirt roads leading to the hospital are often washed away, severely impacting Karanda's ability to provide care.

As a middle school student sitting in her first journalism class in Bartlett, Illinois, Isabella Agnello was captivated - not by breaking news or front-page headlines, but by the power of genuine storytelling. Years later, that passion led her to an internship with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, where she used social media to share faith-driven stories. Now, as a junior majoring in journalism at Cedarville University, Agnello serves as a production social media intern for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Society. In this role, she blends her love for storytelling with her deep-rooted faith.

As the demand for cybersecurity professionals soars, Cedarville University is launching a new student-led initiative to equip future cyber experts with technical and leadership skills. The university's Center for the Advancement of Cybersecurity will introduce the Cyber Leadership Development Program (CLDP) in spring 2025. The two-year program, tailored for upperclassmen, focuses on enhancing communication and leadership abilities, equipping students to become multifaceted professionals in the rapidly growing cybersecurity field.

Cedarville University's theatre department will bring "Radium Girls," a powerful historical drama written by D.W. Gregory, to the stage February 13-23. The production explores the events of 1926, when young women working in a watch factory used radium-based paint to create a luminous glow - only to later face devastating health consequences. For tickets and show times, visit Purple Pass or the theatre page at www.cedarville.edu.

An estimated 85 million Americans - about one in four people - struggle daily with a skin condition, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. After years of battling cystic acne and testing countless products with little success, Alex Simons, a junior marketing major at Cedarville University, took matters into her own hands. She created "Skin Safe," an innovative app that helps users navigate skincare by scanning product ingredients, pinpoint ingredients and recommending safe, personalized alternatives. Simons' groundbreaking idea earned the $1,000 first-place prize at "The Pitch," a business competition hosted by Cedarville University's Robert W. Plaster School of Business.