The University of West Alabama is proud to highlight the innovative research and academic achievements of our graduate students through thesis and dissertation defenses. These culminating presentations represent the dedication, intellectual curiosity, and scholarly contributions of our students to their fields of study. By exploring diverse topics and addressing real-world challenges, their research reflects UWA鈥檚 commitment to advancing knowledge and making a meaningful impact. Join us in celebrating their accomplishments and the significant role research plays in shaping the future.
Upcoming Defenses
Lindley Gilliaum
Unlocking Potential: Rural Community College Students and Preparation for Post-Secondary Studies
EdD in Rural Education
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 | 9:30 AM
Brooke Elliott-Elrod
Voices Unheard: Multilingual Students Reshaping Rural Stem Education
EdD in Rural Education
Thursday, September 17, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Jason Quick
The Impact of Dual Enrollment on Rural Students Enrolled in a Community College
EdD in Rural Education
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 | 9:30 AM
Elizabeth Browne
Nature or Nurture? A Study of STEM Identity in Rural Middle Schools
EdD in Rural Education
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 | 11:00 AM
George Minoso
New Rules of the Game: NIL and Rural Higher Education
EdD in Rural Education
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 | 9:30 AM
Dawn Cook
Investigating the Relationship Between Locale, Transportation, and Chronic Absenteeism In Rural Schools
EdD in Rural Education
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Jaclyn Albright
Relationships and the Dark Triad
MS Experimental Psychology
Wednesday, September 30, 2026 | Noon
Jonathan Phillips
The Impact of Job Satisfaction on Career Tech Teacher Retention
EdD in Rural Education
Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Bliss Adkison
Lean Thinking Tools and Their Effect on Faculty Motivation in Program Assessment
EdD in Rural Education
Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 2:30 PM