PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (May 10, 2024) – On May 9, 2024, the Division of Research & Innovation (R&I) hosted Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) student researchers and their faculty mentors at the PVAMU’s Juvenile Justice Auditorium for the Spring 2024 Research & Innovation Cording Ceremony.

The Cording Ceremony honors candidates for graduation who were also student researchers in the Research and Innovation Success and Excellence (Faculty-RISE) program.

PVAMU’s Vice President of Research & Innovation Magesh Rajan, Ph.D., P.E., MBA, created the RISE program with a strategic aim: to invest in Prairie View A&M University’s vital research and innovation clusters. Simultaneously, it offers undergraduate and graduate students the invaluable chance to immerse themselves in the research process under the mentorship of committed faculty members. The program also serves to push the boundaries of knowledge, act as critical points of convergence for the University, and foster a cultural experience for students and faculty, promoting multi- and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Addressing the honorees, Dr. Rajan expressed his pride, stating, “Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have brought you to this point, and I am immensely proud of you. This Cording Ceremony celebrates your willingness to engage in the research and innovation enterprise at PVAMU.”

 

 

Despite having over 15 students in attendance, the acknowledgment extended to more than 20 students, highlighting the extensive scope of achievements celebrated during their time participating in the RISE program. Sequoia Price, a graduating senior majoring in Teacher Education, reflected on her time in program.

“The most remarkable aspect of my experience in the RISE program has been the opportunity to challenge myself and explore uncharted territories within. I never envisioned having such an opportunity, nor did I imagine myself capable of conducting research like this. Engaging in new learning experiences and surpassing my own perceived limitations has been truly fulfilling,” said Price.”

Student researchers who attended the Cording Ceremony included Faculty-RISE graduate students:

  • Laura Ngansop Djampou, Chemical Engineering, mentor Kazeem Olanrewaju
  • Ijeoma Ugochinyere Eze, Computer Information Science, mentor Ayodeji Iyanda
  • Reza Islam, Engineering, mentor Jaejong Park
  • Naiyah McDaniel, Chemistry, mentor Harshica Fernando
  • Mikayla Oberlton, Human Sciences, mentor Selena Tate

Faculty-RISE undergraduates included:

  • Lauren Allen, Electrical Engineering, mentor Kevin Storr
  • Critobal Bosio, Mechanical Engineering, mentor Shahin Shafiee
  • Jaylynn Brantley, Biology, mentor Tyler Moore
  • Michael Cardoso, Computer Science, mentor Na Li
  • Skylar Fort, Health, mentor Andrea McDonald
  • Siah Green, Biology, mentor Quincy Moore
  • Cory Minor, Digital Media Arts, mentor Tracey Moore
  • Akilah Mosley, Psychology, mentor Tamilola Salami
  • Favor Olanrewaju, Chemical Engineering, mentor Kazeem Olanrewaju
  • Sequoia Barnett-Price, Teacher Education, mentor Camille Burnett
  • Vivian Salazar, Chemistry, mentor Harshica Fernando
  • Krystal Stanton, B.S. in Agriculture, mentor Ali Fares
  • Mackenzie Stephney, Chemical Engineering, mentor Emmanuel Dada
  • Tiara Wade, College of Nursing, mentor Mona Hassan
  • Katianna Lemons-White, Teacher Education, mentor Camille Burnett

 

 

Dr. Rajan also expressed his gratitude to the mentors, acknowledging their crucial role in guiding and nurturing the development of young researchers. He emphasized the significance of mentorship in shaping the future of research and innovation at PVAMU.

“Your unwavering dedication and steadfast support for these students during their research journeys have not gone unnoticed. Your guidance, wisdom, and expertise have undoubtedly shaped the futures of these budding scientists. Your tireless efforts in creating an atmosphere of learning, advancement, and discovery have left an indelible mark on the RISE program.,” said Rajan.

 

 

The R&I’s Cording Ceremony not only celebrates the achievements of the honored research students and their mentors but also underscores PVAMU’s enduring commitment to research “excellence” and innovation.

By Joe McGinty