::Wayne State College::

Abstract
The mentally ill are negatively labeled by society and as a result face many challenges. The public subjects them to social distancing as a result of this labeling. Social distancing can have a profound effect on the mentally ill affecting their acceptance in the community, ability to get jobs to support themselves and their pursuit of their life's goals. Two studies were conducted, one involving Wayne State College students and the second one involving employees of the Pender Community Hospital to examine how social distance toward the mentally ill was affected by diagnosis and gender. Different levels of social distance that required interaction on the part of the respondent and the respondent's children were examined. The degree of social distance depended on the diagnosis of the person diagnosed with a mental illness and the amount of social distance that would be required during the interaction.

Autobiography
Carrol Baier is married to Dennis Baier of Wayne, Nebraska. She is a graduate of Neligh High School and St. Joseph Mercy School of Nursing. She is a Registered Nurse employed full time at the Pender Community Hospital and part time as a Consultant for Northstar Services in Wayne. She is President-elect of the Wayne Rotary Club, President of Wayne Toastmasters, member of Psi Chi, Pi Gamma Mu, Cardinal Key Club, the Honors Program, Sociological Association and serves as Treasurer of Alpha Sigma Lambda. She plans to pursue a master's degree in Counseling at Wayne State College.

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TODD D. BAIER

"Social Perceptions of Otherness in Society"

Advisor: Dr. Monica Snowden

Abstract
Social perceptions of otherness, i.e., minority group statuses, is a limiting force within society. This project examines the social construction of the other in American society. Three major social theorists, Frederick Douglas, W.E.B. DuBois, and Patricia Hill Collins have contributed to our understanding of the other and especially the consequences of that status for those who occupy it. Finally, this paper demonstrates the continuing need to theorize the construction of otherness and how it can be extended to understand the experiences of disabled individuals.

Autobiography
Todd Baier is the son of Dennis and Carrol Baier of Wayne, Nebraska. Todd is a graduate of Wayne High School, Northeast Community College where he received his Associate of Applied Science Degree in Autobody Repair, and is majoring in Sociology and Psychology at Wayne State College. Todd is a member of Pi Gamma Mu, Psi Chi, Sociological Association, and Alpha Sigma Lambda, which he currently serves as secretary. Upon completion of his undergraduate degree, Todd intends to return to Wayne State College to pursue a masters degree in Counseling. His goal is to be able to help individuals in their lives.

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JAMES E. BENNINGTON

"SolidWorks Drawing Extraction"

Advisor: Don Buryanek

Abstract
Consumer 3D modeling software has revolutionized the design industry. It has enabled designers to design products and make changes to existing products quickly and accurately. This type of software uses 3D models of parts mated into subassemblies to create assemblies. The parts and assemblies are linked together with the drawings that are extracted from the models. So when a part or assembly is updated, the software automatically updates the drawings as well. This has eliminated the possibility of making errors when updating individual views of a drawing. After the drawings are extracted from the models the bill of materials, details and sections can be extracted accurately with little effort.

Autobiography
James Bennington is from Norfolk, Nebraska, where he lives with his wife, Dawn, and two sons, Kyle and Clayton. James graduated from Norfolk Senior High School in 1988, and then served a tour in the U. S. Army where he received numerous awards for meritorious service. He has an Associates Degree from Northeast Community College, where he was on the President's List, Dean's List and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. He then transferred to Wayne State College where he has been on the Dean's List. James claims that he could not have made it this far without the support of his family.

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TIERNEY R. BERGER

"The American Bison as Possible Seed Dispersal Agents Prior to Euro-American Settlement"

Advisor: Dr. Mark Hammer

Abstract
The American bison (Bison bison L.) was a keystone species in the prairie ecosystems of the Great Plains prior to Euro-American settlement. Native prairie plants have adapted to coexist along side these roaming herds. Removal of bison from the majority of the Great Plains may have affected the ecology of the Great Plains. Bison at the Nature Conservancy's Niobrara Valley Preserve near Valentine, Nebraska, were studied as to their potential role as seed dispersal agents. These bison primarily graze in a Sandhills prairie that has a high percentage of native grasses and forbs. In mid-May and early June of 2002, shed winter coat material of the bison was collected from the ground and from trees that had been rubbed by bison. Propagules containing seed were removed from the bison fur and identified. Grass propagules were found in much higher numbers than forb propagules. Propagules from two types of grass (Andropogon scoparius and Bouteloua sp.) were found in much higher numbers than other propagules identified in the fur. These species are a common component of the Sandhills prairie, but are not the most abundant based on percent plant cover. A. scoparius and Bouteloua sp. have apparent mechanisms of attachment to fur and they may be better adapted for dispersal by bison than other species. This information not only indicates how bison may have affected the distribution of plant species on the Great Plains but also how bison may have affected individual plant species genetic distribution.

Autobiography
Tierney Berger is the daughter of Mike and Deb Berger of Pierce. Tierney, a graduate of Pierce High School, is majoring in Biology at Wayne State College. While attending Wayne State College, Tierney has received a number of honors. Tierney is a Wayne State College Neihardt Scholar as well as a participant in the Honors Program at Wayne State College. In both 2001 and 2002, Tierney received an undergraduate scholarship from the Entomological Society of America and she attended the 2002 ESA national meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Tierney became a Morris K. Udall scholar in 2001. This scholarship is a national scholarship given in honor of former Arizona Congressman Morris K. Udall to develop increased opportunities for young Americans to prepare for and pursue careers related to the environment. She traveled to Arizona to meet with other Udall scholars at the 2001 Morris K. Udall Conference. Tierney has received funding from the National Science Foundation EPSCoR program to support her undergraduate research project on bison as seed dispersal agents. She plans to present her research at the Confluence of Cultures conference being held at the University of Montana, Missoula in May. Tierney has participated in many job opportunities related to her career field. She worked with Tom Hunt at the University of Nebraska Agricultural Laboratory at Concord, Nebraska, on a project concerning bean leaf beetle defoliation. During the summer of 2001, Tierney worked at the La Selva, Organization for Tropical Studies, lab in Costa Rica where she performed studies in primary tropical rainforest. Tierney worked on the Missouri River during the summer of 2002 for Larry Hesse as part of River Ecosystems Incorporated. Here she worked as a conservation technician and as a taxonomist. This coming summer, Tierney will work as the outdoor educator for Ponca State Park before attending graduate school in the fall.

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JENNIFER L. CHLEBOUN

"Green Chemistry: Solid Phase Formation of Arene Cr(CO)3 Complexes"

Advisor: Dr. David Peitz

Abstract
Green chemistry is a set of principles used to reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances in the design, manufacture, and application of chemical products. Arene chromium tricarbonyl complexes are prepared by mixing the arene and chromiumhexacarbonyl (Cr(CO)6) and refluxed in a high boiling solvent, or by mixing the arene and (NH3)3Cr(CO)3 with BF3/ether to initiate the reaction. The solvents represent a large excess of material in relationship to the amount of target compound prepared and therefore much of the cost and waste generated is due to the solvent and not to the material that is actually wanted. Using a system of naphthalene and Cr(CO)6 or (NH3)3Cr(CO)3 several solvent-free techniques (vortexing, heat, UV, IR, vacuum) were analyzed by infrared spectroscopy for their effectiveness in the preparation of these complexes.

Autobiography
Jennifer Chleboun is the daughter of Jeff & Joyce Chleboun of Schuyler, Nebraska. Jennifer graduated from Schuyler Central High School and has a double major in Chemistry/Chemical Science and Chemistry/Health Science along with a double minor in Biology and Communication. While attending Wayne State College, Jennifer has been active in various resident hall and intramural activities. She has also been very active in twenty-seven organizations on campus. Some of the offices she has held include Student Senate President, Circle K Governor and Lieutenant Governor, Student Activities Board Programmer and Movie Chair, Biology Club Secretary, Lambda Delta Lambda Historian, Health Science Club Secretary, Theta Phi Alpha Vice President and Treasurer, Greek Council secretary, GAMMA Vice President and Secretary, and Cardinal Key. Jennifer has participated in the Neihardt Scholar Program and the Rural Health Opportunities Program. She was a Student Representative to the Board of Trustees as well as being on the Dean's List. Jennifer will graduate in May of 2003.

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KIMBERLY J. DAAKE

"Card Tricks in the Math Classroom"

Advisor: Dr. Tamara Worner

Abstract
Mathematics seems to be a scary subject for many students. I feel these students are
apprehensive of Math because they've never had fun with it. My presentation will focus on the methods some teachers are currently using to make math fun and exciting. I will also be demonstrating some of these methods including card tricks and a few games. I will then explain how they apply to Mathematics and what teachers can do to incorporate them into the classroom.

Autobiography
Kimberly Daake is the daughter of David and Betty Daake of Utica, Nebraska. Kimberly, a graduate of Centennial High School, is majoring in Mathematics and minoring in Biology. While attending Wayne State College, Kimberly has been involved in various residence hall and intramural activities. She has also been involved in Band, Jazz Band, Kappa Mu Epsilon and served as Kappa Mu Epsilon Historian. She has participated in the Neihardt Scholar Program and been on the Dean's List. Kimberly will graduate in May 2003.

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MATTHEW A. DOSTAL

"Computer Technical Support"

Advisor: Jean Lutt

Abstract
One of the most important aspects of business computing is the interaction of users with their computers. Companies expect a high level of performance from their employees, but employee performance can be directly linked to the performance of the computers they use. If computers are not performing to requirements of the user, a problem exists. In order to prevent and eliminate problems with user and computer interactions, many companies maintain an in-house technical support team. This team is called upon when computers fail or are not operating in the manner that the user desires. Because of the importance of insuring that there is a good relationship between computer and user, it is important to have a quality technical support team. This paper explores the fundamentals of ensuring that users are receiving quality technical support that meets their needs.

Autobiography
Matthew Alan Dostal is the son of Alan and Carol Dostal of Columbus, Nebraska. Matthew is a Computer Information Systems major. He is a Neihardt Scholar and a member of the Wayne State College Honors program. Matthew is a member of the Eta Pi chapter of Delta Sigma Pi and currently serves as Chancellor of that organization. Matt is also a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta freshman honorary, Blue Key international, and the Newman Campus Catholic Ministry. He also served as President of the Wayne State College concert choir. Matthew has also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America and is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow.

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PETER J. DOWTY

"A Study on the Filmmaking Experience"

Advisor: Maureen Carrigg

Abstract
Filmmaking is a passion, a person's desire to tell stories. Some of the greatest moments in history and the greatest dreams of the future have been captured on the silver screen. However, films do not just show up overnight, there are many different facets to making a movie. As a producer, one must bring together all the elements that make the film; acting talent, set design, wardrobe, makeup, camera, special effects, the list is seemingly endless, just watch the credits at the end of any movie. Mr. Dowty will be presenting his feature-length film after his presentation on the process of undertaking such an endeavor.

Autobiography
Peter J. Dowty is the son of Lt. Col. Scott and Gloria Dowty. Originally from New England, Peter has lived all over the United States and in Germany. He has had a penchant for photography, theatrical productions and storytelling from an early age. At Florida State University, Peter learned that his talents were best suited for a career as a filmmaker. Leaving FSU for an opportunity to study in Germany, he developed a Youth-Centered Film Club, where teens on the military installation learned to produce movies. His studies here at Wayne State College have allowed him the creative flexibility and the resources to produce award-winning public service announcements, short films as well as the feature for this presentation, "Staying the Course." Peter will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mass Communications, Broadcasting.

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MEGAN E. FARMER

"Transfer Students: Perspectives and Experiences"

Advisor: Dr. Jean Karlen

Abstract
Across the nation, the amount of students that transfer from one college to another has been increasing. This increase has brought about a need to understand the perspectives and experiences of the transfer students in order to increase enrollment and retention rates. With this in mind, my presentation focuses on twenty-one interviews that I conducted with Wayne State College transfer students. The interviews covered topics such as the transfer process, academic experiences, and social life. Analysis of the results provides good insight into what changes should be made in order to increase the college experience of transfer students.

Autobiography
Megan Farmer is the daughter of Mike and Marsha Farmer of Caledonia, Michigan, and Bob and Betty Anderson of Omaha, Nebraska. Megan, a graduate of Millard South High School, is majoring in Sociology. While attending Wayne State College, Megan has been the President of Lambda Phi Omega and Secretary of the Sociological Association. She has also been a member of Pi Gamma Mu and Greek Council. Furthermore, she was a 2002 Who's Who Among Colleges Students recipient. Megan will graduate in May of 2003.

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MARCUS D. GOEDEKER

"Topics in Customer Service for the Small Online Business"

Advisor: Jean Lutt

Abstract
The number of small businesses that exist on the World Wide Web has grown drastically over the last few years. Whether they started offline or began as an online start-up, small businesses have moved to the Internet for many different reasons. One of the most prominent reasons has been for customer service. In the presentation, differences in small and large businesses are explored and how customer service is especially important for the small business. This will lead to emerging strategies for identifying customer expectations on the Web and how to improve customer relationship management on an e-commerce website. The research also considers building customer trust and confidence through a medium that has yet to be defined by the general public as trustworthy.

Autobiography
Marcus Goedeker is the son of Richard and Carol Goedeker of Creighton, Nebraska. Marcus, a graduate of Creighton High School, is majoring in Computer Information Systems. While attending Wayne State College, Marcus has been involved in the International Fraternity of Delta Sigma Pi, the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, and various intramural activities. He was a recipient of the Board of Trustees Scholarship and has been on the Dean's List. Marcus will graduate in May of 2003.

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MARY ANN HANSEN

"Gizmos, Gadgets, and Satisfaction: The Future of Retailing in the 21st Century"

Advisor: Patricia Lutt

Abstract
When marketing to 21st century consumers, retailers should carefully consider the effect emerging and evolving technologies can and will have on their marketplace. With the growth of wireless technology, self-checkout systems, electronic shelf tags, and more, retailers have several opportunities to reinvent the wheel when it comes to their customers' shopping experience. Emerging retail technologies, if properly implemented, can allow retailers to cut operating expenses, control inventory, create new shopping atmospheres, and most importantly, satisfy customers. Consumer behaviors and satisfaction can lead to success or failure of a business. In the 21st century competitive retail environment, finding the right technology to meet consumers' demands is a critical success factor. Discussion and recommendations of future retailing technologies are based on a series of academic and industry articles, personal experiences and observances, and interviews with retail technology experts suggesting the possible uses and importance of emerging technologies.

Autobiography
Mary Ann Hansen is the daughter of Vernon and Joan Hansen of Norfolk, Nebraska. She grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska, with her parents and one brother, Steve Hansen, of Kearney. Mary Ann, a 1999 graduate of Norfolk Senior High, will receive her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management and Marketing from Wayne State College this May.

While attending Wayne State College, Mary Ann has been very involved with campus activities. She has been a member of the Honor's program since her freshman year, a member of Phi Beta Lambda for 2½ years and was the vice president of the Wayne State chapter her senior year. She has represented Wayne State College at Phi Beta Lambda's State Leadership Conference for 2 years. Mary Ann has also been on the Wayne State College Dean's List and has received Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities recognition in both the fall of 2001 and fall of 2002. Mary Ann was also honored by the School of Business and Technology when she received the Business Faculty Scholarship in the spring of 2002.

Mary Ann has been actively involved in the Wayne State College Habitat for Humanity organization for the past four years. She is also a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, Sigma Beta Lambda, and Society for Human Resource Management. Mary Ann has served on the Anderson Hall council and also as a Student Activities Board representative from Anderson 2nd floor. Throughout her time at Wayne State College, Mary Ann has been involved with several Intramural activities and was a champion in archery and track events her junior year.

Not only has Mary Ann excelled academically and actively while at Wayne State College, but also professionally in her work experiences. This last semester she completed an internship with the Economics Development department in the city of South Sioux City. She has also been employed at Hy-Vee East in Norfolk, Nebraska, for the past 6½ years. It is through her academic achievements and dedication to quality work that Mary Ann became the recipient of several grocery-related scholarships including: Women Grocer's Association Scholarship, Iowa Grocer's Association Scholarship, Minnesota's Grocer's Association Scholarship, Affiliated Foods Scholarship, and Hy-Vee's College Scholarship. Upon graduation in May, Mary Ann plans to remain in the Midwest area and pursue a grocery or retail-related career.
Special thanks goes to my family and friends, Pat Lutt, Dr. Laura Barelman, and Dr. Ken Hallgren, as well as the Wayne State College Business Faculty and Staff, for their advice and assistance in completing my project.

A special thank you also goes to Hy-Vee, K-mart, Baker's, and Sam's Club in allowing store observation and for providing information on technologies.

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STACY A. JOHNSON

"The Invisible Empire Unveiled: A Geography of the Ku Klux Klan"

Advisor: Dr. Randy Bertolas

Abstract
The Ku Klux Klan started as a social fraternity for bored Confederate veterans in Pulaski, Tennessee in 1865. As African-Americans were freed from slavery, certain aspects of southern culture felt threatened, and the Klan quickly transformed into a terrorizing organization. The KKK has had three significant active periods throughout its history: 1865-1871, 1915-1930, and 1960-1974. However, the KKK still supports active chapters today. The use of technology, especially the Internet, has helped spread the Klan's views of hate to millions of people around the world.

Autobiography
Stacy Johnson is the daughter of Frank and Linda Stuhr of Atkinson, Nebraska. She attended West Holt High School in Atkinson, Nebraska, and graduated in 1998. While attending Wayne State College, Stacy has been a member and president of Pi Gamma Mu, a member of Gamma Theta Upsilon, a Resident Assistant in Neihardt Hall and Berry Hall, a volunteer for the Wayne Humane Society, and an active participant in intramurals. A senior Geography and History Education major, she intends to pursue a career in secondary education.

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SARA B. KOCER

"Generation Y: Who They Are and How Advertisements Target Them"

Advisor: Patricia Lutt

Abstract
Generation Y, a group of 7 to 24 year-olds, has captured the attention of retailers, marketers, and advertisers all over the United States. With a population of around 60 million people, Generation Y is even larger than the market-dominating Baby Boomers. Generation Y's shear size and immense spending power have retailers looking to them with dollars signs in their eyes. Advertisements have reflected this increased interest through targeting their message to Generation Y. Through this presentation I will discuss what aspects and types of advertisements are successful at appealing to Generation Y, and which are unsuccessful.

Autobiography
Sara Kocer is the daughter of Lad and Lynne Kocer of Gering, Nebraska. Sara, a graduate of Gering High School, is majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Advertising. While attending Wayne State College, Sara has been involved in Alpha Lambda Delta, Delta Sigma Pi, Sigma Beta Delta, the Honors Program, and has served as treasurer for the Advertising Club and Pile Hall Dorm Council. She is also a Neihardt Scholar and has been the Accounting Tutor for the Peer Tutor Program for the past two years. Sara will graduate Summa cum Laude in May 2003.

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NATHAN M. LaBELLE

"A Genetic Algorithm for Optimizing Network Routing"

Advisor: Dr. John Paxton

Abstract
This paper presents research that applies a modification of the Traveling Salesman Problem to generalized computer network routing. In doing this, the research was aimed at a proof of concept model that tests the applicability of Genetic Algorithms to network routing problems.

Autobiography
Nathan Miles LaBelle is the son of Jay and Jane LaBelle of Sioux City, Iowa. A graduate of Sioux City East, Nathan is majoring in Computer Science and minoring in Computer Information Systems and Mathematics. Upon graduation, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science.

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LESLIE N. McFARLAND

"Using Mathematica in Probability and Statistics"

Advisor: Dr. Tamara Worner

Abstract
With the growing impact of computer technology on education, exploring mathematics through software has given teachers the opportunity to create a setting where students can think creatively in an active environment. Consequently, over the past semester I have used a computer program called Mathematica to integrate a series of computer projects into the MAT 410 Probability & Statistics class. My presentation will focus on adapting these projects to the class and achieving the desired objectives set forth at the beginning of the semester. In addition, I will discuss research on the possible effects of implementing Mathematica and computer-based learning into the math classroom.

Autobiography
Leslie McFarland is the daughter of Mark and Marcia McFarland of Grant, Nebraska. Leslie, a graduate of Blue Hill High School (Blue Hill, Nebraska), is a math education major. At Wayne State College, she is a Learning Center Tutor and is in the Neihardt Scholars Program. She has served as the vice president of Kappa Mu Epsilon and has also been involved in Alpha Lambda Delta, several intramural activities, and participates in WSC Rugby. In 2001, Leslie received the "Outstanding Freshman Math Major" award and earlier this year was elected to the 2002-2003 Who's Who Among Students in America's Colleges and Universities. After completing student teaching, Leslie will graduate in December of 2003.

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BRANDON L. McLAUGHLIN

"Determination of the Variation of the Caloric Content of Soybeans by Oxygen Bomb Calorimetry"

Advisor: Dr. Paul Karr

Abstract
Oxygen bomb calorimetry has been the accepted method for the determination of the caloric content of foods, fuels, and other combustible materials for several years. A Parr 1341 Oxygen Bomb Calorimeter was used to determine the caloric content of sample soybeans grown under various conditions. The growing variations examined were fertilization, irrigation, seed type and geographic growing region. Standard oxygen bomb procedures were followed in the analysis and the acid content was determined by mass balance titration of the bomb washings with a standardized sodium hydroxide solution.

Autobiography
Brandon McLaughlin is the son of Dave and Janelle Farnstrom of Hebron, Nebraska. Brandon, a graduate of Hebron High School, has lived in Nebraska his entire life. While attending Wayne State College, Brandon has been involved in various residence hall and intramural activities. He has been involved in the Health Science Club, the Honors Program, and has served as Lambda Delta Lambda vice president and Alpha Lambda Delta vice president, junior advisor and senior advisor. Brandon has been a John G. Neihardt Scholar and has been on the Dean's list. A chemistry major and biology minor, he is a senior and upon graduating from Wayne State College, intends to pursue a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) degree at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

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REBECCA C. MONTGOMERY

"The Process and History of Advocating for the Safe Haven Law in the Nebraska Legislature"

Advisor: Dr. Kathleen Conway

Abstract
Recently many states have adopted what is called a Safe Haven or Baby Moses law. The law would allow mothers to leave their infant children in a designated safe haven; for example, a hospital; without fear of prosecution. For my project, I compiled research on the safe haven law and advocated for senators to introduce the bill into the Nebraska legislature. I will spend some time presenting information on the benefits of the safe haven law, the negatives of the safe haven law, and will explain the process I took to contact various individuals. I will also explain how I presented this information to senators and where the bill is at now in the Nebraska legislature.

Autobiography
Rebecca Montgomery is the wife of Shawn Montgomery and the daughter of Gary and Cheryl Meier of Orchard, Nebraska. Rebecca is a non-traditional student who graduated from Orchard High School in 1995. She drives from Ewing, Nebraska, to attend school and has been at Wayne State College for four years. She is majoring in Human Services Counseling and will be doing an internship at Health and Human Services this summer, receiving her bachelor's degree in August.

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WENDI M. SAZAMA

"Transformation of Airport Security Procedures in Nebraska Passenger Airports"

Advisor: Dr. Laura Barelman

Abstract
After the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, President George W. Bush asked all states for assistance in securing the nation's passenger airports. As a member of the Nebraska Army National Guard, I was among the soldiers placed on airport security duty in two of Nebraska's nine passenger airports. My experience interested me in the transformation of airport security after the terrorist attacks with the creation of the Transportation Security Administration. I will summarize key components of the newly created Transportation Security Administration, the enactment of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, and various legalities and regulations that affect consumers traveling during and after this transformation. I will also draw references from my experiences and relate to Nebraska's progress toward the implementation of new security procedures under the Transportation and Security Administration.

Autobiography
Wendi Sazama is the daughter of Dennis Sazama of Bloomfield, Nebraska, and Connie Sazama of Yankton, South Dakota. She is majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Economics and a minor in Pre-Law. She is also obtaining Paralegal Certification through Northeast Community College. While attending Wayne State College, Wendi has been involved in Student Senate, Delta Sigma Pi, Phi Beta Lambda, Pi Gamma Mu, Economics Forum, Alpha Lambda Delta, Sigma Beta Delta, and several other organizations. She has served as a Peer Tutor for both the Learning Center and STRIDE and was appointed as the student representative on the Budget Advisory Committee. Wendi is involved in Junior Achievement, Habitat for Humanity, and is a member of the Nebraska Army National Guard. Wendi will graduate in May of 2003.

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LISA M. STENVERS

"Growth and Survival Analysis of Escherichia coli Containing High and Low Adenine-Thymine Recombinant DNA Sequences in Plasmid Cloning Vectors"

Advisor: Dr. Doug Christensen

Abstract
Escherichia coli is the most commonly utilized organism concerning recombinant DNA housing. The Guanine-Cytosine content of its genome is generally cited at ~52%. Like most bacteria, E. coli utilize high AT content DNA as transcriptional promoters, including the Pribnow box with the consensus sequence of 5'-TATAAT-3'. Cloning of foreign genes with a high AT ratio may interfere with the normal growth and regulation of necessary genes in E. coli by competing for transcriptional proteins. This could become especially serious when utilizing high copy number plasmids such as pBluescript. In this investigation, high and low percentage A-T DNA fragments of similar length were cloned into E. coli DH5alpha utilizing high and low copy plasmids. The growth rate of each organism was monitored as an indication of the inability of the organism to keep pace on transciptional needs of its critical chromosomal DNA.
This project was partially supported by NIH Grant Number 1 P20 RR16469 from the NE-BRIN Program of the National Center for Research Resources.

Autobiography
Lisa Stenvers is the wife of Wade Stenvers and mother of three children, Aaron, Ellie and Maggie. Lisa and her family reside in rural Hooper, Nebraska. While attending Wayne State College, she has been a member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda, received the Student of the Year Award in Anthropology, has been on the Deans List and in the Honors Program. Lisa will graduate in May 2003 with a major in Life Science-Biology and minor in Chemistry, and she intends to pursue her Masters of Physician Assistant Studies degree at UNMC.

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MARY HOLLIS TROUP

"Georg Britting, Selected Translations of Poetry and Fiction"

Advisor: Dr. Robert Zahniser

Abstract
Georg Britting (1891-1964) was a prominent German author and poet who, but for several short stories, has never been translated into English. The honors presentation will include translations of Britting's poetry and fiction accompanied by critical comments, biographical material, and graphics.

Autobiography
Mary Hollis (Holly) Troup, German Major. Ms. Troup is a non-traditional student. She is the daughter of Omer and Joan Hoffman of Clearwater, Nebraska. Ms. Troup has three children: Dimitrij is a musician, Alexandra works for Luftansa Airlines, and Mary Elizabeth is a first-year student at Shimer College in Waukegan, Illinois. Ms. Troup is also an artist and has had exhibitions in the USA, Germany, and the Czech Republic.