The 2nd Annual Interdisciplinary Student Research Symposium

Ave Maria University hosted its second annual Interdisciplinary Student ResearchSymposium on April 12, 2025, featuring the scholarly work of 50 student presenters from 20 different academic disciplines. This free event showcased undergraduate research spanning from biochemistry to philosophy, demonstrating AMU's commitment to fostering academic excellence across all fields of study.

“The Interdisciplinary Student Research Symposium showcases and celebrates our students’ pursuit of inquiry, innovation, creativity, and discovery,” explained Dr. Agnes Berki, an AMU faculty member who took part in the event. “I am inspired to be part of the symposium because, as students prepare for it, they grow as professionals and deepen their sense of wonder, which is for me a truly amazing and rewarding transformation to witness.”

Among the presentations, health science student Clara Schreffler shared her research on the “Effect of Natural Eczema Treatments on Staphylococcus Aureus.” Her study examined natural remedies for the chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects 26 million Americans—one remedy being Manuka honey, which demonstrated promising results.

In another presentation, marine biology students Charlotte Palmer, Jenna Joston, and Donte Brooks discussed their research on “Diet of Non-Native Freshwater Fishes in Southwest Florida.” Their study examined invasive fish species in Ave Maria’s canal habitats and their potential impact on native ecosystems. By dissecting specimens and analyzing intestinal contents, the team discovered that non-native species like tilapia and walking catfish have dietary compositions similar to native fish, raising concerns for fisheries management in South Florida.

Dr. Berki noted that the symposium has become “an exhilarating day on campus because we come together as a community to celebrate the many talents of our students, staff, and faculty. I believe the symposium enriches our shared knowledge and strengthens our mutual respect for all disciplines and for one another.”

As the symposium continues to grow, it remains a vibrant expression of AMU’s motto, Veritatis Splendor— “the splendor of truth”—as university students across various disciplines showcase their pursuit of truth and knowledge. Due to the generosity of donors like you, Ave Maria University continues to form faithful Catholic leaders who will go out and change the world.