Eighth Annual Freed-Hardeman University Scholars' Day Showcases Research and Academic Excellence

Local student presents research

Henderson, TN (12/06/2023) — Freed-Hardeman University's Eighth Annual Scholars' Day, an annual campus-wide celebration of academic excellence, included oral presentations, poster presentations, a STEM display and musical performances. More than 80 individuals shared research findings and other scholarly accomplishments with fellow faculty, staff and students in a variety of locations across the Henderson campus. As is tradition, academic classes were canceled Nov. 3 to provide the student body the opportunity to attend the presentations of their choosing.

Senior biology majors Josie Gannon and Bailey Gilbert, in collaboration with assistant professor of biology Caleb Kersey, presented "From Pharmacy Lab to the Micro Lab; Identifying Bacterial Contaminants from a Compounding Facility." It was Gannon's second time presenting during University Scholars' Day. "I was less nervous this time," she said. "We examined bacteria that grows on media, and we took environmental samples." Gannon is applying to doctoral programs and hopes to work as an advisor in the environmental field.

Gannon was also among the students who shared poster presentations that were on display in the Loyd Auditorium lobby. Her poster presentation was titled "Into the Unknown: Updates on an Uncharacterized Gene's Role in the Soft Rot Pathogen Pectobacterium Versatile."

"The presentations made by our faculty and students were outstanding; congratulations to all!" said Dr. C.J. Vires, vice president for academics and provost. "As provost, I have three favorite days of the year: Tolling of the Bell, graduation and University Scholars' Day."

The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers bachelor's, master's, specialist's and doctoral degrees. More information is available at http://fhu.edu.

Media Attachments

FHU senior Josie Gannon discusses presentation “Into the Unknown: Updates on an Uncharacterized Gene’s Role in the Soft Rot Pathogen Pectobacterium Versatile.”