Six students from Lee University received the ACA Ledford Research Scholarship for summer research and include Nicholas Baker, Andrew Cannon, Abigail Christopher, Shelley Harris, Bethany Westcott, and Hanna Wyman. A seventh student, Sara Moser, received a university scholarship, also to conduct summer research. These seven students presented their original research at the ACA Summit in Johnson City, Tennessee, earlier this month.

Baker, senior double major in mathematics and philosophy, presented his research titled, “The G-Rule by Egyptian Scribes,” in collaboration with his faculty sponsor, Dr. Caroline Maher-Boulis, associate professor of mathematics.

“The research essentially aimed to show that the Ancient Egyptians had a much richer and fuller understanding of mathematics than they are typically given credit for,” said Baker. “The most rewarding part of this experience was the feeling of being a real researcher in my chosen field of study.”

Cannon, senior mathematics education major, gave a presentation titled, “Teaching Mathematics in Appalachia,” after working with faculty sponsor Dr. Bryan Poole, assistant professor of psychology.

Christopher, senior anthropology major, presented on the “Role of Women of Faith in Community Building and Rebuilding in West Africa,” along with Dr. Murl Dirksen, professor of anthropology and sociology.

“I most enjoyed being able to do hands-on fieldwork, something many undergraduate anthropology students never get to do simply because it takes a significant amount of time and resources,” said Christopher. “Getting to know the women in my research settings was a powerful experience because they so excitedly welcomed me into their lives and spiritual beliefs.”

Harris, junior political science major, along with her partner, Moser, senior political science major, worked with faculty sponsor and political science professor Dr. Stephen Swindle to present “Determinants of County Government Revenue.”

Harris said, “I loved the conference because before going I did not think many people would be interested in the project, but we had multiple people approach us at the conference with questions and curiosity about our findings.”

Senior humanities major Bethany Westcott, along with senior classics major Hanna Wyman, presented “The Camino Digitization Project,” in collaboration with their faculty sponsor, Dr. Jared Wielfaert, associate professor of humanities.

The ACA Summit recognized both Baker and Westcott for the excellence of their presentations.

“It’s quite difficult to talk about a summer-long research project in just five minutes,” said Maher-Boulis. “It takes good judgement of what to present and excellent communication skills for how to present it.”

The ACA Ledford Research Scholarship, named for Colonel Lee B. Ledford, presents $5000 of funding to projects in the fields of laboratory and field work, interviews, analysis of special collections, participant observations, and the like.