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CE 633 Syllabus: Ethical Practice and Social Change
This course introduces students to the legal, professional and ethical issues that affect the practice of counseling and psychotherapy and the methods and ethical basis for counselors to be agents of social change. Students will become familiar with law and ethical codes related to the counseling profession. A model for ethical decision-making will be presented. Also, students will be presented with models for social change in their function as leaders, change agents, collaborators, and risk takers. Providing outreach and advocacy services in the school and community settings, students will expand their role as counselors to include the social contexts of culture, the dynamics of power at work in any system, and the political processes essential for change
Using Fluorimetry and Colorimetry for Quantitative Analysis for Biomaterial-Derived Carbon Dots
The pursuit of sustainability in nanomaterial synthesis has led to the exploration of biomaterial-derived carbon dots (CDs) as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional methods. This study investigates the synthesis, characterization, and application of CDs derived from various biomaterials, including shrimp shells, food waste, cellulose, keratin, and saccharides. By employing hydrothermal, microwave, and ultrasound-assisted synthesis techniques, this research aims to develop a green, cost-effective approach to producing CDs while reducing environmental impact.
Previous work used shrimp shells as a starting material for a green CD. This work starts with shrimp shells to ensure reproducibility. In the future, novel materials like food waste derivatives, cellulose-based sources, protein-rich materials, and sugar derivatives will be used. The physicochemical properties of these CDs will be assessed through fluorescence intensity, photostability, metal ion selectivity, and synthesis efficiency.
Fluorometric and colorimetric methods will be assessed to analyze the CDs\u27 effectiveness in quantitative detection. Fluorescence spectroscopy will be used to assess the sensitivity and selectivity of the CDs for specific ion detections, while colorimetric detection will be applied for hydrogen peroxide and glucose analysis. The integration of these techniques will demonstrate the versatility of biomaterial-derived CDs in real-world applications, such as environmental monitoring and biomedical sensing.
This research aligns with the principles of green chemistry by repurposing waste materials into valuable nanomaterials, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based resources. The expected findings will provide insight into the feasibility of sustainable CDs, paving the way for cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives in green chemistry
Parlez-vous français? You betcha: Revitalizing a French Cultural Center by Connecting to its Minnesota Roots
The Alliance Française Minneapolis-St. Paul (AFMSP) is an independent chapter of an international organization aimed at promoting the French language and various francophone cultures. It provides language instruction, cultural programming, social events, and access to a range of resources. However, participation in its events and courses has declined in recent years, putting the organization’s financial stability at risk. This project employs research and analysis to identify strategic and creative solutions to help AFMSP thrive. A review of applied research was conducted, which included industry reports, performance data, and local cultural trends. Key insights revealed the need for enhanced community engagement, particularly through targeted communication efforts. The primary goal of this project is to help AFMSP increase community participation in its events and resources, which will enhance revenue and ensure financial sustainability. As the only cultural center in Minnesota focused exclusively on French language and culture, AFMSP is vital for the local community. This project is the first to gather data and detailed information about AFMSP to conduct a strategic analysis to address its challenges. To develop the communication strategy, the project used Framing Theory (Goffman, 1974) and Aristotle\u27s Theory of Persuasion (Aristotle, trans. 2004). Framing Theory focuses on how media and messages can shape public perception. The campaign positions AFMSP as an accessible and essential resource for experiencing French culture locally. Aristotle’s Persuasion Theory guides message development by using three modes of persuasion: logos (logical appeal), pathos (emotional appeal), and ethos (credibility appeal). These strategies aim to encourage individuals to engage with AFMSP. Primary research included in-depth interviews with stakeholders—members, instructors, and staff—and a survey of community members. The data were analyzed to uncover patterns regarding audience engagement, perceptions of AFMSP, and barriers to participation. Findings revealed that the community faces challenges that prevent them from attending events and classes, including transportation issues, cost of attendance, and lack of time. These findings guided the establishment of specific goals and objectives, such as increasing event attendance and class enrollment. Additionally, research results informed the creation of strategies, including the “Bonjour, Minnesota” campaign and a detailed implementation plan. The project also includes a framework for evaluating the success of these strategies. The “Bonjour, Minnesota” campaign invites the community to experience authentic French culture without leaving the state. Through a wide range of tactics, the campaign highlights how AFMSP makes French culture accessible to individuals and families in their neighborhoods. At AFMSP, the richness of French language, art, food, and history is brought to local audiences—no passport required. By promoting these diverse offerings through accessible channels, AFMSP can capitalize on the local enthusiasm for arts, culture, and language learning. Implementing these recommendations will ensure that the Alliance Française Minneapolis-St. Paul connects effectively with both new and existing members, ultimately boosting participation and financial sustainability while continuing its long history of enriching Minnesota with French culture
Choir Concert
On April 26, 2025 at 7:30pm-8:30pm attend this free concert featuring WSU choir students. Location is Center Lutheran Church, 259 W. Wabasha Street in Winona, Minnesot
Modeling cis/trans preferences of Sn( acac )2Cl2 complexes
Tin(IV) complexes bearing two chloride ligands and two symmetric β-diketonate ligands exhibit octahedral geometries. As such, they can theoretically present in two geometric isomer forms, cis and trans. Modeling of isomeric forms of these Sn(IV) complexes with five different β-diketonate ligands has been conducted to identify overall preference as well as to attempt to ascertain any influence the ligand\u27s own electronic properties has on exhibited isomeric preference. Additionally, modeled IR spectra of cis and trans forms were compared to determine the utility of that characterization method in distinguishing these isomers
History and Legal Studies Research Showcase
This is the annual spring celebration of student research in the History and Legal Studies Departments. This includes research presentations by students in the Senior Seminar and other classes. The department will also induct new members into Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX) Legal Studies honors society and Phi Alpha Theta (PAT)- the History Honors society
“I didn’t understand what it was to be a mom until I became one:” Gender and Cultural Influence on Hmong Mother-Daughter Relationships and Communication
The relationship between mothers and daughters is a complex bond that differs from person to person and is significantly shaped by cultural influences. The research in this area aims to reveal those cultural norms--the Hmong culture being the primary focus of the study--and values play a crucial role in defining the dynamics between mother-daughter relationships impacting their communication, expectations, and expression. To first understand the different dynamics that may exist between mothers and daughters in the Hmong culture, grasping the history of the importance of familial roles is essential. The Hmong demographic is an existing ethnic group part of various areas of Southeast Asia and a growing population in the west (Lor, 2013). The Hmong culture places great importance on family and community, viewing these elements as central to their way of life (Tatman, 2004), and to create structure the culture was dependent on a system that had men holding the primary authority in the household and women tending to domestic duties. These cultural practices create distinct roles, expectations, and responsibilities for both men and women. This then creates a domino effect as mothers in Hmong culture are typically the example for their daughters, being a primary factor in how communication occurs and thus affects the relationship and relationship satisfaction between mothers and daughters. RQ: What is the influence of gender in culture and how does it affect the dynamic and communication between mothers and daughters? To gain accurate and relevant data, the methods of research in this study inhabits qualitative research. Conducting an array of interviews with 13 Hmong daughters in between the ages of 18-28 years old through a snowball sample allowed for different perspectives and insight to the different mother-daughter dynamics that exist. In preparation of the interview, a list of 15 questions were formulated to gauge relationship satisfaction, communication satisfaction, conflict resolution, and cultural influences on relationships. Through thematic analysis on the interviews, common themes and patterns are being coded into various categories and examined. This research aims to expand perspectives and observe how different factors, culture specifically, affect communication and relationship satisfaction between mothers and daughters in ways that enlarges or minimizes that gap. Current themes that have been identified include: gender roles and expectations, miscommunication, values and beliefs, and motherhood. Final analysis of the themes will be completed by the Research and Creative Achievement Day
Satori
ENG 324 is a three-credit class focusing the production of Satori, Winona State University’s literary journal. In this course, we got hands on experience that will help prepare us for the world of literary publishing. We have been exposed to each facet of production, from judging which pieces will make it into the journal, to ordering them, to designing the journal itself. We have gained valuable practice in crafting professional emails and working with faculty at the university. The process began with the class garnering fiction, poetry, and art submissions from the WSU student body. Throughout the production process, we have gotten a glimpse into how journals are printed and have been in the past. From the WSU literary archives to the campus print shop, we’ve been guided through the process of book creation. We’ve also learned about the history of bookmaking to provide important context and inspiration to help propel us through the course. We’ve studied old editions to make observations to help inform decisions about paper quality, margins, text size, etc. We’ve become familiar with Adobe InDesign and learned the conventions of online book design and formatting
Effects of Prior Direct-Patient Care Experience on Undergraduate Nursing Students’ Anxiety and Self-Confidence
Purpose: An extensive literature review indicates a gap in understanding how prior direct patient care experience affects undergraduate nursing students’ anxiety and self-confidence during their program. The purpose of this project was to examine the impact of prior direct patient care experience on undergraduate nursing students’ anxiety and self-confidence while in an undergraduate nursing program.
Participants: A total of 294 undergraduate nursing students were surveyed using Qualtrics. Students were from terms one, two, three, and four in the Winona and Rochester nursing program allowing for a population of diverse backgrounds.
Methods: A survey including the Nursing Anxiety and Self-Confidence with Clinical Decision Making (NASC- CDM©) scale was administered to assess both anxiety and self-confidence, with 27 questions for each. Self-confidence and anxiety were rated on a scale of 1 through 6: 1 = not at all, 2 = just a little, 3 = somewhat, 4 = mostly, 5 = almost totally, 6 = totally. Additional data were collected on participants\u27 term in the nursing program, prior experience in direct patient care, age, and gender. For those with prior experience, further details were gathered on the number of years of experience and the time elapsed between the start of prior experience and the beginning of nursing the nursing program.
Results: Scores for anxiety and self-confidence were able to range from 27 (not at all) to 162 (total anxiety or self-confidence). Students who had direct-patient care experience showed increased self-confidence and decreased anxiety compared to students who did not have direct-patient care experience prior to admission to the undergraduate nursing program. Furthermore, results indicated that prior direct-patient care experience and term within the nursing program significantly improve self-confidence.
Conclusions: Having direct-patient care experience prior to undergraduate nursing program admission is effective in decreasing anxiety and increasing self-confidence in undergraduate students. Nursing programs may find it beneficial to require direct-patient care hours for undergraduate nursing students prior to program admission to assist in decreasing anxiety and increasing self-confidence