The Kays Foundation has approved a grant of $12,223 to support research by Dr. Andrew Sweet, assistant professor of evolutionary biology. Sweet will use the award to apply cutting-edge DNA sequencing technologies for a better understanding of arthropod biodiversity in northeast Arkansas. The project, which will continue until September 2024, also will provide training for undergraduate students in the field of molecular biology.

Congratulations to Dr. Nairam Simoes (right), assistant professor of music, and Sam Oliveri, instructor in music, whose students have been selected to compete at an international conference. Performing as the A-State Fantasia Trumpet Ensemble,  they earned a semifinalist spot in the 2023 International Trumpet Guild's Chamber Music Division of the Ryan Anthony Memorial Trumpet Competition, set for May 31 in Minneapolis. They also were selected for the National Trumpet Competition at Colorado-Boulder in March.

A research study by Dr. Elizabeth S. Nix, professor of nursing, and former A-State nursing faculty member Dr. Mollie Manning has been accepted for publication this spring in the Journal of Christian Nursing. Though their study, Nix and Manning provide an analysis of the use of aromatherapy in post-operative patient care and help familiarize nursing professionals with this technique’s usage and benefits.

Dr. Ryan Sullivan, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, has been selected as one of six professionals to participate in the International Conductor Exchange Program facilitated by the American Choral Directors Association. He is hosting a German counterpart, Christian Schmid, this month, then he will travel to Germany for three weeks in May and June to meet with Schmid’s students, work with choirs in the region, and judge choral competitions.

A photograph made by Carla Wehmeyer, university photographer, during “Howlidays on the Rooftop” at the ASU System Office across from the State Capitol won first place in the “personal vision” category of the monthly contest conducted by the University Photographers' Association of America (UPAA). Another of her photos, “Layup,” won second place in the “sports action” category. UPAA advances photographic excellence through continuing education and professional networking.