Dr. Zahid Hossain, professor of civil engineering, is principal investigator for a grant from the Arkansas Department of Transportation to continue his research with concrete. Hossain and his associates will be examining the viability of utilizing waste materials, such as steel slag, in the concrete mixed for road construction. Their goal would be production of concrete that is more durable while benefiting the environment. Details are in a news release.

Congratulations to Dr. Gil Fowler Jr., emeritus professor of journalism, who recently was inducted into the Arkansas Military Veterans’ Hall of Fame. The Hall emphasizes the honor brought to the state and the nation by the sacrifice of military veterans and their families. Commissioned into the Army through the A-State ROTC program, Fowler was recognized for exemplary performance in National Guard leadership. He served on the A-State faculty for 42 years.

Dr. Melodie Philhours, associate professor of marketing, Dr. John Mello, professor of supply chain management, Dr. Katie Hill, associate professor of marketing, and a colleague from Samford University presented their research on consumer reactions to scarcity at the Society of Marketing Advances 2024 annual conference in Tampa, Fla. The team conducted qualitative research to understand pre-response conditions and response behaviors to scarcity, as well as consumer coping tactics that may contribute to extension of shortages.

Dr. Saúl Esparza (left) and Dr. Glenda Chávez (right), professors of business, Campus Querétaro, recently led the second edition of TEDxASUCQ, bringing together students, faculty, campus council members, award-winning educators, and distinguished professionals. They shared inspiring insights on a wide range of topics, including the importance of making sound life decisions, stepping out of comfort zones, and neurosciences in education. More details are available online.

Dr. Sara Damron, assistant professor of nursing, has been selected to serve as an item writer for the adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner certification exam, through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Damron is the adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioner option coordinator for the College of Nursing and Health Professions. She will begin this volunteer position for ANCC in January of next year.