Research Days 2025 at Governors State University was a celebration of innovation, discovery, and academic excellence. Psychology students participating through the Research and Development (RAD) Program, led by Dr. Alli Cipra, Dr. Figen Karadogan, and Penny Purdue, showcased outstanding original research. Students from the GSU Honors College also were represented, demonstrating leadership and dedication to scholarly excellence.
The RAD Program (Research and Development Program) offers psychology students an early opportunity to experience the full research process. Students gain experience in designing studies, analyzing data, and presenting results — all while being mentored closely by experienced faculty.
The RAD Program is led by Dr. Alli Cipra and Dr. Figen Karadogan. Their guidance helped students produce research that is both academically rigorous and personally meaningful.
The GSU Honors College continues to foster excellence, critical thinking, and leadership across disciplines, and many of the students highlighted here are proud members of the Honors College.
Psychology Poster Presentations
Emma Talamonti
The Impact of Extrinsic Motivation on Intrinsic Engagement in the Workplace
Emma’s project explored how external motivators like bonuses and recognition can unintentionally weaken employees’ natural passion for their work. She found that while rewards can provide a temporary boost, true job satisfaction relies more on internal motivation and purpose. Her study encourages companies to focus on meaningful engagement, not just rewards.
(Mentored by Dr. Alli Cipra)
Amanda Sawatski
The Impact of Centrality of Event on Trauma Outcomes
Amanda researched how a person’s view of a traumatic event — seeing it as either central or peripheral to their identity — influences their mental health. Her study showed that when trauma becomes a major part of self-identity, it can either block recovery or lead to post-traumatic growth, depending on coping mechanisms. Amanda’s work deepens our understanding of trauma therapy.
(Mentored by Dr. J. Corey Steele)
Angelina Knoch
More Than a Score: Examining Racial Bias in Graduate Admissions Testing
Angelina’s project critically examined how standardized tests like the GRE disadvantage minority students. She showed that heavy reliance on test scores can unfairly block access to graduate education and argued for more holistic admissions practices. Her work highlights the need for greater fairness and equity in education.
(Mentored by Dr. Alli Cipra)
Will Ravetto, Jade Groble, and Hayley Stewart
From Grace to Guilt: How Spirituality Affects Regret
Will, Jade, and Hayley studied the emotional effects of spirituality on processing regret. They found that individuals with strong spiritual beliefs often experience less regret and are more able to forgive themselves. Their research showed the important emotional benefits that faith and spirituality can provide during tough times.
(Mentored by Dr. Figen Karadogan)
Kelly Rosenthal
Brain-Body Connection: A Yoga Pilot Study
Kelly conducted a pilot study exploring how practicing yoga can improve emotional balance and physical awareness. Her results suggested that regular yoga practice can lead to better stress management and greater emotional resilience — an important finding for student wellness programs.
(Mentored by Dr. Alli Cipra)
Alyssa Voss
Transition to Adulthood: Impacts of Life and Career Skill Building on Adolescents
Alyssa’s project focused on how teaching life and career skills to adolescents can support a smoother transition into adulthood. Her findings showed that programs focused on skill development — such as financial literacy, job preparation, and emotional coping — positively impact young people’s confidence and future planning. Alyssa’s research points to ways to better prepare students for real-world challenges.
(Mentored by Dr. Alli Cipra)
Kendal Stanek
The Effects of Agreeableness and Neuroticism on Personal Growth in Later Adulthood
Kelly explored how two of the Big Five personality traits relate to continued self-development in older adults. She found that agreeableness was positively associated with personal growth, while neuroticism showed a negative relationship, supporting existing psychological theory. Her work adds valuable insight to aging and personality studies, suggesting ways to enhance well-being through understanding individual traits.
(Mentored by Dr. Yeojin Rho)
Grace Meeks
Examining the Interplay Between Constructs of Masculinity and Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder
Grace Meeks presented a project which investigated how rigid masculine norms and emotional suppression contribute to body image struggles in men. Her research focused on how traits like emotional restraint and societal pressure to appear physically dominant may elevate risks for muscle dysmorphia — a condition characterized by obsessive concern with muscularity. Grace’s study adds depth to our understanding of gender norms and mental health.
(Mentored by Dr. Alli Cipra)
The psychology research presentations at Research Days 2025 showed the strength and future promise of Governors State University’s students. Thanks to programs like the RAD Program, the Honors College, and the guidance of mentors like Dr. Alli Cipra, Dr. Figen Karadogan, and Penny Purdue, GovState students are leaving a mark on the academic community.
Their passion, hard work, and commitment to research will continue to inspire others. Congratulations to all the student researchers!