Showcase spotlights excellence of BW computing, engineering, mathematics, sciences

Talent, innovation, leadership and teamwork were on full display at a recent showcase celebrating student success in computing, engineering, mathematics and the sciences.

Approximately 200 people gathered to view displays, watch presentations and network at Knowlton Center, BW’s newest state-of-the-art STEM building.

The two-hour program showcased BW's success in preparing the next generation of STEM professionals. Student ingenuity, hard work and interdisciplinary collaboration across a wide range of disciplines enabled participants to see the rigor of BW academics, hands-on learning and student achievement.

The event featured research posters, oral presentations, capstone projects, class projects and live project demonstrations from first-year students to graduating seniors.

Jenna Shepard of Valley City, Ohio, was among the student presenters. The senior shared her design for a custom inventory and workflow management system for Mission Guatemala, an international BW partner organization that supports community development in that country.

For Shepard, who is studying business information systems, business analytics and computer science, the opportunity showcased a capstone senior project.

"I'm deeply grateful for the mentorship of Dr. Rachelle Kristof Hippler and for the Mission Guatemala staff who allowed me to understand their processes firsthand. Their insight shaped every part of this design," she noted.

"Thank you to BW for creating a space where students can share their work with the community," she said with affirmation.

Upon graduation, Shepard will be entering the workforce as a rotational data analyst at KeyBank, where she will complete two one-year rotations to gain diversified experience in the field of data analytics within technology and organizational management.

Helping students succeed

Students interested in STEM programs can benefit from the BW Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars program, which is open to Ohio residents entering BW in the fall as first-year or transfer students. Through the Choose Ohio First scholarship, students in eligible majors can receive an annual, renewable financial aid award.