by Xypher Pino and Shaniah Taylor

After countless hours of research and hard work, honors students of the graduating 2025 class presented their theses to the Greensboro College community on April 10 at the Cowan Lecture Hall.

The first presenter was Courtney Jamison, majoring in business administration with a concentration in human resources, presented her thesis project titled, “Parental Leave Policies: How Maternity and Paternity Leaves Needs More.”

Jamison advocated for reforms in America’s maternity and paternity leave system. She broke down its flaws – starting with the failure of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the lack of consistency from state to state regarding specific maternity and paternity leave systems. Essentially, it was unclear whether states enforced these rules, if maternity and paternity leave only fell under FMLA. Comparing our system to Canada’s, she also encouraged paid leave without the long list of circumstances needed to qualify for it. The key takeaway from the presentation was that America needs to strive for a better and more consistent system that supports all current and future mothers and fathers.

Kyla Catarineau, a pre-med biology major, switched it up by shifting the audience’s mind to a more scientific focus with her thesis titled, “Women, Check Your Colon!”

Catarineau discovered that there are significant differences between left-sided and right-sided colorectal cancer. Combining both information from an intensive review of related literature and interviews from gastroenterologists, she emphasized the importance of early screening for colorectal cancer and the need to educate people about the specifics regarding testing men and women differently. Catarineau hopes to not only use her thesis as a reference source for future colorectal cancer-related research, but also to make tangible real-world impact. She plans to send out brochures filled with information she found to women health care centers, healthcare clinics and other relevant places.

Calen Lewis, majoring in accounting, was up next, choosing to discuss financial issues with his thesis titled, “The Price of Illiteracy: A Case for Financial Education in America.”

Lewis’ presentation tied together his interests in accounting and finances beautifully with education as he encouraged the need for better financial education in schools and institutions all across our country. Going over the numbers and his statistical analysis, Lewis demonstrated the economic failings of adults in America and explained how further education could help relieve debt and encourage people to make smarter financial decisions.

Psychology major Liya Veale presented her thesis titled “The Entitlement of Spectators: I Don’t Even Know Y’all” next.

Veale educated the audience about parasocial relationships and the harm that they can have both on celebrities and fans. In the presentation, she expertly analyzed the psychology of why we form one-sided connections with celebrities and the effects of this on both ends, using examples like Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Doja Cat and other famous individuals to illustrate her point. According to Veale, parasocial relationships are inevitable but certainly is something that needs to be controlled.

Sarai Acosta, a double major in studio art and business, presented last, taking a non-traditional approach with her thesis titled, “His Invisible Qualities are Clearly Seen.”

Acosta showcased many of her works throughout her education here, all connecting to the theme of beauty in nature and Jehovah. She worked in many different mediums to portray moments throughout her life such as her baptism and the beauty she saw in the world. Most definitely, this presentation made its impact to the people as she gave insight into her inspirations and the beauty of God’s creation.

This presentation event marks the end of the Greensboro College academic journey for these amazing honors students. The Honors Program is extremely proud of each student, and without a doubt, Jamison, Acosta, Veale, Lewis and Catarineau will make a true impact on the world through their sheer dedication, work ethic and immense thirst for knowledge. The Collegian wishes these individuals the best for their next chapter in life.