Five McNair Scholars from Bemidji State University recently showcased their undergraduate research at the 2025 Gabriel E. Gallardo Research, Student Leadership and Advocacy Symposium, held April 14-16 at the University of Washington.

The event, honoring the legacy of the late Dr. Gabriel E. Gallardo, brought together students from across the country to share their work, build networks and celebrate the impact of student research and advocacy.

Hosted annually by the University of Washington Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity, the symposium serves as a key platform for TRIO McNair Scholars and other underrepresented students in higher education.

Representing BSU, the students presented research across a range of disciplines:

Kaylee Schmidt, mentored by Dr. Judith Zatkin, examined how Participant Demographics Influence Perceptions of Prisoners

Alexia Waller, under the guidance of Dr. Shannon Norman, explored The Psychological Effects of Sport-Related Injuries on NCAA Division I Student-Athletes

Quincy Mabin, mentored by Dr. Travis Ricks, presented findings on The Willingness to Attend Athletic Events and Its Effect on Mental Health and Well-Being

Damon Cooper, working with Dr. Jacob Haus, investigated Scavenger Activity on White-Tailed Deer Carcasses; Implications for Prion Dispersal in Northern Minnesota

Piper Jaakola, mentored by Dr. John Gonzalez, shared research on Cultural Connectivity: Enhancing Academic and Personal Success for Native American Students

The BSU McNair Scholars Program, named in honor of astronaut and physicist Ronald E. McNair, supports first-generation, low-income and underrepresented students pursuing doctoral studies. Bemidji State is the only Minnesota State institution to offer the program, which includes faculty-mentored research, graduate school preparation, travel funding and opportunities to present at national conferences.

The program aims to help students earn a Ph.D. within 10 years of graduating. It serves 25 BSU undergraduates each year.

The Gabriel E. Gallardo Research, Student Leadership and Advocacy Symposium, now in its fourth year, continues Dr. Gallardo’s mission of advancing educational equity and empowering future scholars.