KENNESAW, Ga. | Apr 22, 2025

The School of Government and International Affairs (SGIA) proudly celebrates the accomplishments of its student researchers who presented at KSU’s Symposium of Student Scholars. Guided by dedicated faculty mentors Dr. Ben Taylor, Dr. Kenneth White, and Dr. Jennifer W. Purcell, these students explored critical issues in politics, ethics, education, the environment, and gender equity in academia. 

Joana Pruitt, mentored by Dr. Taylor, presented “Does Political Affiliation Have an Effect on Confidence in Educational Institutions?” This study used General Social Survey data to explore how party alignment affects public trust in education policy. 

Addison Stephens, also mentored by Dr. Taylor, presented “How Does One's Party Identification Affect Views on the Legalization of Marijuana?” The project found that while Democrats are more likely to support legalization, the partisan divide has narrowed between 2018 and 2022. 

Isabella Ramirez, under Dr. Taylor’s guidance, examined “How Does Partisanship Influence Attitudes on Improving the Environment and Environmental Protection?” Her findings highlighted the impact of political identity and generational effects on environmental attitudes over time. 

Kelsey Morgan, mentored by Dr. White, presented “Philosophy, Religion, and The Trolley Problem.” This interdisciplinary analysis investigated how various ethical and religious frameworks approach this famous moral dilemma. 

Ana Luisa Onofre, Hannah Anderson, and Kydall Moore, working with Dr. Purcell, presented “The ‘She-Cession’ in Academia: Determinants of Post-COVID Career Trajectories Among Women Faculty.” Their qualitative research examined the long-term professional impacts of the pandemic on women in higher education. 

These impressive projects reflect SGIA’s strong culture of undergraduate research and the mentorship that fuels it. 

To read full abstracts and explore more research, visit the symposium website.