Campus Connection

UWL McNair Scholars showcase novel research at UWL summer symposium

UW-La Crosse student Kailey Peterson’s passion for art and psychology has come to life through her latest research project, blending both disciplines into a novel study. As part of a 10-week summer research initiative through the McNair Scholars program, Peterson explored how structure and mindfulness during artistic tasks affect stress levels and overall mood.  

She presented her preliminary work at UWL’s 2024 Summer Research Symposium in early August. The event highlighted the work of numerous student researchers, including College of Science & Health Dean's Distinguished Fellows, Graduate Research Fellows, Freshwater Collaborative students, and McNair Scholars. 

“The McNair program has been an incredible experience,” Peterson said. “Presenting at conferences like this is exciting because it shows how many people are interested in our research.” 

UWL Senior Sayla Hernandez, another McNair Scholar, presented her summer’s research in the area of organizational psychology during the Summer Research Symposium. Hernandez conducted an extensive literature review on systemic racism in the workplace, drawing insights from HR Strategist and Author Shereen Daniels. Daniels emphasizes the critical role of language in addressing racism, noting that even terms like “diverse” can inadvertently reinforce biases. 

“My research is relevant to many companies and organizations struggling to create inclusive environments,” Hernandez remarked. She plans to build on her literature review by interviewing people of color, stakeholders, and business leaders to further explore racism in the workplace. 

About McNair

The McNair Scholars program is one of many research opportunities available at UWL. Designed specifically for low-income, first-generation college students and those from traditionally underrepresented groups, the program provides housing and stipends for summer research; funding and structured supports for grad school applications and research conferences; and individualized mentoring and advising. Each year, a new cohort of students is recruited. 

As of this June, the McNair program has a new director, Adrienne Loh. A UWL chemistry professor, Loh has served in various leadership roles and has been the principal investigator on several federal grants since her start on campus in 1996. Most recently, she was the School of Education Interim Associate Dean, supporting both undergraduate and graduate programming across SOE, College of Science and Health, and College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities.   

Loh has been a research mentor to over 20 students. All have presented their work at regional and/or national conferences, and some accompanied Loh to conduct research at collaborator’s labs in Paris, France or Ithaca, NY. Many have gone on to pursue graduate studies and assume leadership roles in industry or academia. 

“It is so fulfilling to see students develop self-confidence and agency as they progress from learning initial skills, to being the experts who help to drive the questions we pursue, to graduating and becoming professionals and leaders. The mentor/mentee relationship is really powerful and is something that endures. I am still in contact with many of my former researchers.” says Loh. “ I am excited about the opportunity to serve the McNair program and provide opportunities for our talented students to develop the professional skills and sense of belonging in their field that will allow them to excel in graduate school and beyond.” 

Loh calls herself a life-long learner who is always looking for new opportunities and challenges. “I am enthusiastic about working with all the members of the university to advance student learning and growth,” says Loh. 

Am I eligible for McNair?

Eligibility for the McNair Scholars program is federally defined via first-generation and income-based criteria, or underrepresentation status. The program aims to prepare students for success and to foster a sense of belonging in academic and professional spaces. Prospective students are encouraged to contact McNair Scholars staff to determine their eligibility. For more information, reach out to Amber Strother, program coordinator, at astrother@uwlax.edu or 608-785-6903. 

The program includes a weekly three-hour class focused on graduate school preparation, research under the guidance of a faculty mentor, and opportunities to present findings. The program serves 28 students at a given time, and typically 10-13 students are selected for the program each year, which is open to students from any major at UWL that leads to a doctoral program. 

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, and several units at UWL including the Diversity & Inclusion, the College of Science and Health, the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, and the Provost’s office, the McNair Scholars program is a federal TRIO initiative.  

For more details, visit the UWL McNair Scholars website.