Eastern Michigan Athletics

EMU Student-Athletes Shine at Undergraduate Research Symposium
3/27/2026 1:08:00 PM | Soccer, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Swimming & Diving, General, Lacrosse
Five Eagles present impactful research, reinforcing EMU’s commitment to academic and athletic excellence
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YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – As the Undergraduate Research Symposium took place March 26, Eastern Michigan University Athletics recognized a group of student-athletes who delivered high-level academic research while competing at the Division I level.
The annual symposium, hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, highlights top undergraduate research and creative projects across campus. Participation requires nomination by a faculty mentor and endorsement from each student's academic program.
Eastern's presence stood out through a group of student-athletes who continue to raise the standard for success across both academics and athletics.
Ella Grasson of the volleyball program presented "Motivations Behind Sports Fans' Social Media Use: A Comparison of Men's and Women's Basketball," a study examining behavior and engagement trends across digital platforms.
Sarah Van Euwen, a member of the soccer team, completed two research projects in environmental science: "Investigation of the Air Quality Near Local Elementary Schools" and "Investigation of Canadian Wildfire Smoke on Local Air Quality," both addressing real-world public health concerns.
From the swimming and diving program, Tristen Mina showcased advanced biological research through "Analysis of the Microbiome of Craspedacusta sowerbii by Direct-Sequencing and Culture Methods" and "Characterizing Temperature Responses of Rhazya stricta Glutamate:Glyoxylate Aminotransferase 2."
Gymnast Brooke Maycroft presented "Demographic Differences in Strength Training Guideline Adherence Among Female College Students" while manager Taylor Wetherbee presented "Objective and Self-Described Weight Status and Mental Health in College Students," a project focused on the intersection of perceptions of physical health and mental well-being.
Annika Wozney of the lacrosse team contributed "Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Resilience in Women's Lacrosse: An Ecological Dynamics Approach," focusing on injury prevention and performance sustainability in sport.
These presentations reflect the discipline required to manage both academic research and the demands of collegiate athletics. Each student-athlete continues to represent Eastern with focus, leadership, and purpose.
Eastern Michigan Athletics celebrates its achievement and the example it sets for future Eagles.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – As the Undergraduate Research Symposium took place March 26, Eastern Michigan University Athletics recognized a group of student-athletes who delivered high-level academic research while competing at the Division I level.
The annual symposium, hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, highlights top undergraduate research and creative projects across campus. Participation requires nomination by a faculty mentor and endorsement from each student's academic program.
Eastern's presence stood out through a group of student-athletes who continue to raise the standard for success across both academics and athletics.
Ella Grasson of the volleyball program presented "Motivations Behind Sports Fans' Social Media Use: A Comparison of Men's and Women's Basketball," a study examining behavior and engagement trends across digital platforms.
Sarah Van Euwen, a member of the soccer team, completed two research projects in environmental science: "Investigation of the Air Quality Near Local Elementary Schools" and "Investigation of Canadian Wildfire Smoke on Local Air Quality," both addressing real-world public health concerns.
From the swimming and diving program, Tristen Mina showcased advanced biological research through "Analysis of the Microbiome of Craspedacusta sowerbii by Direct-Sequencing and Culture Methods" and "Characterizing Temperature Responses of Rhazya stricta Glutamate:Glyoxylate Aminotransferase 2."
Gymnast Brooke Maycroft presented "Demographic Differences in Strength Training Guideline Adherence Among Female College Students" while manager Taylor Wetherbee presented "Objective and Self-Described Weight Status and Mental Health in College Students," a project focused on the intersection of perceptions of physical health and mental well-being.
Annika Wozney of the lacrosse team contributed "Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Resilience in Women's Lacrosse: An Ecological Dynamics Approach," focusing on injury prevention and performance sustainability in sport.
These presentations reflect the discipline required to manage both academic research and the demands of collegiate athletics. Each student-athlete continues to represent Eastern with focus, leadership, and purpose.
Eastern Michigan Athletics celebrates its achievement and the example it sets for future Eagles.
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