海角直播 participated in the 2025 Kansas Data Science Conference (KDSCON25), hosted by the Kansas Data Science Consortium (KDSC) at the University of Kansas. The two-day event gathered students, faculty, industry professionals, and community leaders to showcase outstanding data science projects, offer hands-on workshops, and enhance the data science capacity of the workforce in the state of Kansas.

The KDSC, is supported by the National Science Foundation鈥檚 EPSCoR program. The KDSC expands access to real-world data science opportunities by connecting students to trained data scientists, project repositories, and challenges presented by local, state, and federal government agencies, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

The consortium currently includes seven academic institutions across Kansas: The University of Kansas, Kansas State University, Wichita State University, Baker University, Butler Community College, Donnelly College, and Johnson County Community College. This year鈥檚 conference was sponsored by the KDSC, with additional support from the University of Kansas College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Department of Psychology, and the Department of Economics.

Participation in KDSCON25 highlights the growing opportunities in the field of data science, a profession experiencing rapid expansion. In 2023, 202,900 jobs were tracked under data science occupations, with the field projected to grow by 26 percent between 2023 and 2033. As demand for data-driven solutions increases across industries, events like KDSCON25 inspire students to continuously upgrade their skills preparing for a future of data-driven innovation.

“Our mission is to develop Kansas鈥檚 capacity for data innovation by giving students hands-on experience with real-world challenges. By connecting students with community and industry partners, we advance education and drive meaningful solutions that strengthen our communities.” Michael Branicky, Co-Director KDSC

Representing 海角直播鈥檚 first participation in the event, from the university鈥檚 campus near the Kansas-Missouri state line, Shawn C. Smith, Director of Graduate Technology Programs; and Elizabeth (Libby) Kleve, a new Avila Adjunct Professor; and five graduate students pursuing their Master of Science in Technology Management degrees: Sravanthi Pennam, Monika Lama, Durga Khatri, Yaman Thakuri, Ujjawal Bhandari, were in attendance.

Throughout the conference, the Avila team participated in high-demand workshops, including a Geographic Information Systems (ArcGIS) session led by Xanthippe Wedel, Senior Research Data Engineer at The University of Kansas. They attended keynote presentations by leaders such as Dr. Donna Ginther, Roy A. Roberts & Regents Distinguished Professor of Economics, and engaged in industry panel discussions featuring Christopher Wyant (TEC Systems Group), Erin Waldron (Data Dozen), Matt Friesen (MKCoop), and Ryan Vandament (Hill鈥檚 Pet Nutrition). The team also explored student research from across Kansas during poster sessions.

For Avila鈥檚 students, this first-time participation offered continual exposure to the latest trends, and further ideas into how to present their research succinctly to both technical and public audiences.

“What an amazing experience we had attending the Data Science Conference at the University of Kansas! … A special highlight was the session led by Xanthippe Wedel on Geographical Information Systems (ArcGIS) – we even had the chance to create our own maps using her techniques! It was such a fun and hands-on experience.” Sravanthi Pennam, Master of Science Technology Management 鈥� Computer Science

Interactive poster sessions further reinforced skills, allowing students to view and vote on projects in the People鈥檚 Choice category, sparking ideas for their own future showcases.

“Grateful for an incredible day of learning and growth at the Kansas Data Science Conference…I also enjoyed exploring the creative projects during the poster sessions. 鈥� Feeling inspired and motivated to keep growing in the field of data analytics.” -Yaman Thakuri, Master of Science, Technology Management – Business Analytics

The Consortium continues to grow its mission, with new curriculum partnerships underway at Baker University, Butler Community College, Johnson County Community College, and Donnelly College, aiming to embed real-world data science projects into classroom learning.

海角直播鈥檚 inaugural participation at KDSCON25 marks an exciting step.

“At 海角直播, we believe in preparing lifelong learners who make meaningful contributions to communities. This event gave our Master of Science in Technology Management students the opportunity to move beyond the classroom, and apply their leadership and networking skills. Students were also able to explore new technologies to address real-world challenges, deepening their understanding of data available to them while being introduced to innovative ways to present research and analytics. We are grateful to the consortium for the opportunity to attend and look forward to further opportunities to participate and engage in this conversation.鈥� – Shawn Smith, Director of Graduate Technology Programs.

Next year鈥檚 event is planned for May 2, 2026 at Kansas State University. To learn more about the Kansas Data Science Consortium go to .

The FAFSA can be overwhelming, no doubt. And, it can feel like a lot is riding on it. Plus, on top of the already confusing process, this year, they announced big changes to the form and these changes delayed the application process. Don鈥檛 worry, we have you covered.

In the long run, these changes make completing a FAFSA faster and easier, whether you鈥檙e filing for the first time or applying for ongoing aid. What are those changes and how will they help? Here are 7 of the most impactful changes you will see:

1. The FAFSA will be delayed this year. While it was delayed this year only until December 31, 2023. (It鈥檚 usually available in October.), the FAFSA is now open and many of the initial kinks have been worked out. It鈥檚 important you complete the FAFSA as soon as you can so if you have not filled it out yet, it’s a good idea to do that now.

2. You can get your FSA ID now! In order to complete the FAFSA, you and at least one of your parents will need to create an account on the studentaid.gov website. If your parent(s) already has an account, they can check to make sure their log-in is working. Do this as step one when filling out your FAFSA. Then, proceed to the FAFSA website to fill in your form.

3. The FAFSA is much shorter. The simplified form is only about 30 questions 鈥� down from about 100! And the answers to several questions will be populated automatically using your and your parents鈥� federal tax data.

4. More students will be eligible for Pell Grants. A Federal Pell Grant is based on need and is typically only eligible to students who are getting an undergraduate degree and who do not have any other undergrad degree. Eligibility will mostly be based on family income and household size, and it will be easier to know if you qualify (and in some cases, for how much) up front. Pell grants are different than loans in that they do not need to be paid back.

5. The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is now the Student Aid Index (SAI). The EFC stands for expected family income and is the amount of money the government believes your household can contribute to your education. Most financial aid packages are determined based on this EFC. The SAI is your eligibility number that is used to determine how much federal student aid you would receive if you attended the school. The SAI will be calculated differently than the EFC was, but it serves the same purpose: determining your financial need by subtracting it from the college鈥檚 Cost of Attendance. The SAI is calculated based on the contribution made by your parents and your student contribution. The calculation is meant to take your total financial resources and then subtract out the minimum amount of money your family needs for living expenses each year.

6. You very likely don鈥檛 need your tax forms to file the FAFSA. For most students, a new streamlined process will import your federal tax info directly from the IRS.

7. You鈥檒l be able to estimate your federal financial aid award and your SAI. The English and Spanish versions of the new FAFSA have a tool that gives you an early estimate of your SAI and federal financial aid. More information is becoming available week by week! Check out studentaid.gov for the latest. We鈥檙e here to help you navigate these changes. Reach out to our Financial Aid team for more information or with any questions you have!

Avila student and basketball player Desmond Combs, from Fort Worth, Texas, said, 鈥淚鈥檓 looking forward to getting my bachelor’s degree! That鈥檚 my main goal. That should be the goal for everybody.鈥�

This class consists of freshman, transfer, and international student populations. 78% of these students are local to the Kansas City metro. 鈥淲e鈥檙e seeing exciting interest from international students (with more to come), and our MASSIVE increase resides with incoming freshmen, up 100% from last year,鈥� said Parisse. 

Avila student and Truman High School graduate Chey-Ann Morgan said she鈥檚 looking forward to 鈥渕aking new friends, gaining new experiences, and getting out of my comfort zone.鈥�

This impressive incoming class results from many efforts on campus to position Avila as the private university of access. 鈥淣ew and seasoned collaborations with organizations like the Hispanic Development Fund, KC Scholars, and MCCKC, a dedicated recruitment campaign in our local KC backyard, and the unwavering dedication of our enthusiastic admissions and coaching teams who wholeheartedly support our ACCESS mission have all come together to create this remarkable Avila class,鈥� said Parisse. 

The future of Avila lies within this incoming Eagle class. We are building a university of access for them, and they are shaping what we will become tomorrow.  鈥淢ore Avila Eagles on campus allows for increased opportunity to help launch greater numbers of ambitious change-makers into a life of impact and success,鈥� said Parisse.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a clear sign of the institution’s growing reputation and appeal. The increased enrollment can lead to a more diverse and vibrant student body, enriching the academic environment and fostering a strong sense of community. Moreover, the influx of students can boost the college鈥檚 resources, enabling the expansion of programs, co-curricular activities, and student support services,鈥� said Curtis Burton, dean of students. 

Avila student and baseball player Josiah Singleton, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, said he鈥檚 looking forward to 鈥渃onnecting with new people. It鈥檚 a new scenery for me! It鈥檚 a big adjustment, but I鈥檓 excited to be part of the community here. Everybody is very engaged.鈥�

The 海角直播 of today began in 1963 when construction began on the present-day campus in South Kansas City as a response to growing enrollment. That begs the question of whether today鈥檚 campus will suffice for this growing population of students and what may lie ahead.  鈥淥ur campus boasts the capacity to handle the influx of students, and an exceptional team of staff and faculty are poised to deliver the utmost care and attention that our students truly deserve,鈥� said Parisse.

鈥淲e are taking strategic measures to expand facilities, enhance infrastructure, and optimize resources to ensure a smooth transition. Our priority is to maintain the quality of education and student experience while effectively meeting the needs of the growing student body. This includes increasing housing options and bolstering support services to ensure all students can thrive academically and socially,鈥� said Burton. 

Campus-wide efforts are underway to ensure that all incoming students (and those returning this fall) feel welcomed into the Avila community. 

鈥淲e鈥檙e making sure all incoming students feel warmly welcomed through a variety of initiatives. Our orientation program provides a comprehensive introduction to campus life, academic expectations, and resources available. Additionally, we鈥檙e enhancing student engagement opportunities, creating mentorship programs, and organizing events to foster connections among students, faculty, and staff. Our goal is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where each student can easily become a part of our vibrant community and embark on a successful academic journey here at 海角直播,鈥� said Burton. 

Avila student Jaren Miller, from Anchorage, Alaska, said, 鈥淚鈥檓 looking forward to experiencing the community and culture here and how it is to be an Avila Eagle鈥揋o Eagles!鈥�

It was an honor to spend the last two weeks at as a summer servant. For those who don鈥檛 know, Bethlehem Farm is a faith-based intentional community focused on the cornerstones of prayer, simplicity, community, and service. The farm practices sustainable living while serving the community in Appalachia, WV.聽

The farm has a low-income home repair program that heavily relies on volunteers and summer servants to help make surrounding homes safer, warmer, and accessible. 

Through conversations with homeowners, people from the community, volunteers, other summer servants, and caretakers, I built many new relationships, strengthened existing relationships, and grew in my faith. 

Some of the tasks I helped with in these two weeks were processing garlic, caring for chickens, cleaning and organizing a tool trailer (you鈥檙e welcome, Marcus), preparing meals, working in the garden, picking berries in the orchard, laundry, finishing a roof, hanging gutters, installing insulation and sheetrock on a ceiling, siding a house, lots of dishes, and many other tasks around the farm. 

Throughout my time on the farm (including my time as a volunteer from the past two spring breaks), I shared my own stories and experiences and listened to  many others share their own vulnerable stories.  We had many conversations with people from different walks of life and viewpoints. It is truly amazing to open up and have raw and vulnerable conversations with people you don鈥檛 think will understand-it turns out other people have had similar experiences.

Along with work, we also had lots of fun. We had a cookout at a waterhole to celebrate the busy season, jumped off a rock into the Greenbrier River, took a swim in the river on the way home from a worksite, hung out with the five donkeys, went to the gym that Caretaker Jack has been working on, listened to birds in the morning and frogs in the evening, watched and caught lightning bugs, watched a few storms roll in, read in the hammocks on the porch, went to a bluegrass festival, had a few late night conversations, learned to swing dance, played can jam, hiked in Virginia, had another cookout to celebrate Eric and Colleen鈥檚 18th wedding anniversary, wore watermelon helmets, had a bonfire, celebrated Meg鈥檚 birthday, and had many jam out sessions where Molly, Jenna, and Jack (and some others) shared their musical talent.

I spent time meditating, reflecting, and praying next to the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and serving those in need. I am so grateful to the staff, Bethlehem Farm, and the other summer servants for making this a memorable trip. I cannot wait until I am back again.

To that end, I will be leading a group of students to during spring break 2024. If you are ready to take the risk and have the best spring break experience, contact the Director of University Mission & Ministry Dave Armstrong, or me for more information.聽

In addition to the 233 undergraduate and 111 master鈥檚 degrees conferred to Avila鈥檚 105th graduating class, Kim Beatty, Ed.D., chancellor of metropolitan community college, was awarded an honorary degree. Beatty is a thought leader in the equity and leadership space.

CANDIDATES FOR MASTER鈥橲 DEGREES

School of Allied Health Sciences 

Kyle M. Callahan MS Kinesiology

Crystal Castillo MS Kinesiology

Hannah Elizabeth Coates MS Kinesiology

Shelby Lauren Harvey MS Kinesiology

Izaak Ashe Kimsey MS Kinesiology

Ana Maria Suarez MS Kinesiology

D鈥橭vion Shon-Nae Williams MS Kinesiology

School of Business

Kaitlin Taylor Alcox MBA Business Administration

Jake Bade MBA Business Administration

Alissa Janine Blackwell MBA Business Administration

Alec Lane Boren MBA Business Administration

Jarret Dotson MBA Business Administration

Jessica Juanita Dunn MBA Business Administration

Jonathan Andrew Hanson MBA Business Administration

Bayley Holland MBA Business Administration

Tatiana Meshel McCree MBA Business Administration

Jadon Pyle MBA Business Administration

Zach Paul Revier MBA Business Administration

Kristin M. Vaughn-Petersen MBA Business Administration

Andrew Graham Williams MBA Business Administration

Dorian Williams MBA Business Administration

Crystal May Bratton MBA Business Administration

Dakota Edward Witham MBA Business Administration

Alyssa Therese Yap MBA Business Administration 

School of Education

Elizabeth Arroyo MA Education

Cody Marten Banks MA Education

Andrea Marie Boswell-Burns MA Education

Madison Rose Brown MA Education

Gabrielle Ervie MA Education

Shanan Colette Finley MA Education

Ashley Nicole Harkleroad MA Education

Payton Bliss Kinnison MA Education

Sara Jane Klinkenborg MA Education

Heather Ann Mayfield MA Education

Athena Maria McCray MA Education

Jennifer Meade MA Education

Brian Patrick Meyer MA Education

Jacob Ross Nienhueser MA Education

Vickery Susannah Ottaway MA Education

Nicole Elizabeth Prindle MA Education

Katie Eileen Schork MA Education

Morgan Lynn Sterrett MA Education

Clint Eugene Walters MA Education

Lesli Jo Watkins MA Education

Ashley Lynn White MA Education 

School of Innovative Professional & Graduate Studies

Andre Horatio Brooks MS Organizational Development

Sibongile Chidah Chinodakufa MS Organizational Development

Taylor Cole MS Organizational Development

Karla Samantha Dentler MS Organizational Development

Ambrea Canary Johnson MS Organizational Development 

Emilie Beth Keeton MS Organizational Development

Lauren Michelle Maley MS Organizational Development

Robert Kristopher Miller MS Organizational Development

Heather Michelle Rickey MS Organizational Development

Ericka Yvonne Ridgell MS Organizational Development

Janice Roy MS Organizational Development

Lanae Shelly MA Management

Kimberly S. Sixkiller MA Management

Ciara Nicole Slater MA Management

School of Psychology

Ryan Francis Albiani MS Psychology

Gary Williams Atito MS Psychology

Quinn Marie Austin MS Psychology

Kenny Andrew Baker MS Psychology

Timothy Allen Baker MS Counseling Psychology

Maleah Deanna Banker MS Counseling Psychology 

Cody Ann Carmack MS Psychology

Kyle Alexander Clark MS Counseling Psychology

Brooke Coppingervogelgesang MS Counseling Psychology

Michael Alphonse Denk MS Counseling Psychology

Eleanor Maureen Dick MS Psychology

Melody Duarte MS Counseling Psychology

Anaya Naquel Echols-Sprawling MS Psychology

Kegan Davis England MS Counseling Psychology

Cassandra Farris MS Counseling Psychology

Holly Elizabeth France MS Psychology

Ciara Olden MS Psychology

Nninah Elaine Freelon MS Psychology

Alexandria Madison Bax MS Counseling Psychology

Emily Kaye Gallup MS Counseling Psychology

Isabelle Maria Gatapia MS Counseling Psychology

Daisha Goines MS Counseling Psychology

Mariah Nichole Hintz MS Counseling Psychology

Katlin Mae Huskey MS Counseling Psychology

Michaela Avery Jacobson MS Counseling Psychology

Katherine Paige Kaplan MS Counseling Psychology

Lauren Abigayle Gentry MS Counseling Psychology

Shamita Mahjan MS Psychology

Nichole McClellan MS Counseling Psychology

Michelle Marie McMahon MS Counseling Psychology

Jordan Meyer MS Counseling Psychology

Dante Morello MS Psychology

Gina Pace MS Psychology

Jason Neal Phelps MS Counseling Psychology

Sunday Sue Platt MS Counseling Psychology

Olivia Rademacher MS Counseling Psychology

Hank Nelson Richey MS Counseling Psychology

Katie Lyn Riley MS Counseling Psychology

Elizabeth Ann Ritter MS Counseling Psychology

Zachary Daniel Sherwood MS Counseling Psychology

Dawn Stark MS Counseling Psychology

Savanna Patricia Stevens MS Counseling Psychology

Jazmine Perkins MS Counseling Psychology

Kristina Elese Taylor MS Counseling Psychology

Brittany Alyse Hampton MS Counseling Psychology

Iriannys Torres-Morillo MS Psychology

Demetria Wallace MS Psychology

Reyes James Willis MS Psychology

Lindsay Betts Wing MS Psychology

Valeria Winter MS Counseling Psychology

Abby Woods MS Counseling Psychology

Samuel Reagan Ziglinski MS Counseling Psychology 

CANDIDATES FOR BACCALAUREATE DEGREES

Bachelor of Arts

Perla Judith Aguirre BA Business Administration

Erikka Nichole Allen BA Human Resources

Keaton Dexter Ashby BA Communication

Malik Alexander Ashford BA Liberal Arts

Hannah Bouquet BA Psychology; Human Resources

Brianna Leigh Bradley BA Psychology

Cassidy Marie Brown BA Communication

Carson Cavitt-Wells BA Communication

Jopxilin Chavez Pascual BA Liberal Arts

Lauren Cotton BA Liberal Arts Studies

Gabriel Cuellar BA Psychology; Criminology & Justice Studies

Da鈥橪ene Lynnette DePriest BA Art

Brandy J. Dillingham BA Psychology

Bridget Erin Dulle BA Liberal Arts

Michael Nolan Durkin BA Liberal Arts

Guillermo Alberto Espinoza BA Psychology

Loagnn Noel Freeman BA Communication

Sarah Jane Aislinn Fuller BA Art Education

Kennedy Marie Galanakis BA Religious Studies & Philosophy

Tristan Garrett Garbutt BA Liberal Arts

De鈥橯wan Faizon Garron BA Human Resources

Melanie Alison Godfrey BA Art

Kimberly Hilton BA Business Administration

Courtney Marie Hinemeyer BA Psychology

Kylie Lorayne Hurd BA Psychology; Criminology & Justice Studies

Enoma Ighedosa BA Business Administration

Margaret Michelle Ingram BA English

Shay Karmazyn BA Criminology & Justice Studies

Jordan Danielle Kehring BA Criminology & Justice Studies

Natalia Elizabeth Kidder BA Communication

Seth Riley Kilborn BA Management

Christian Blake Knighton BA Communication

Jacob Vernon Kruckenberg BA Communication 

Hannah Jo Leimkuhler BA Art Education

Malik Warren Littrel BA Liberal Arts

Roberto Lopez-Gomez BA History

Angelica D. Martinez BA Art

Angela Joy Meissen BA Human Resources

Cory Kent Miller BA Business Administration

Aden Haimanot Mitiku BA Liberal Arts

Savannah Leaosha Morris BA Psychology

Brittany Ann Normand BA Psychology

Savannah Nicole Parris BA Communication

Tayler Dean Peters BA Liberal Arts

Brandon James Phillips BA Communication

Daniella Mariana Ramirez BA Criminology & Justice Studies

Marquis Bohannon Roby BA Liberal Arts

Jenale Antoinette Ross BA Psychology

Corey Scinto BA Communication

Erica Shelby BA Psychology

Donte鈥檝ious S鈥橵on Simpson BA Communication

Janay Anne Smith BA Psychology; Criminology & Justice Studies

Skye Marie Smith BA Art

Tiana Lutheresa Arroyo Stacker BA Business Administration

Krista Dawn Eidson BA Business Administration

Lily Stockton BA Liberal Arts

Kenyon Josiah Strickland BA Liberal Arts

Cole Jacob Sullivan BA Business Administration

Araceli Thomas BA Psychology

Dessa Ann Aaron Thompson BA Business Administration

Shavon A. Tolliver BA Psychology

Monte L. Toney BA Liberal Arts

Trace Stephen Trame BA Business Administration

Tallon John Vanetti BA Criminology & Justice Studies

Konner Isaiah Wilson BA Business Administration

Brandon Wortman BA History

Angela Michelle Zyniewicz BA English 

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Emily Lynn Akright BFA Art

Richard Michael Bertoldie BFA Theatre

Isabella Anne Brauner BFA Theatre

Talia Mae Hinckley BFA Theatre

Rachel Sofia Howard BFA Theatre

Tyler Houston Lindquist BFA Theatre

Kinberli Yareli Picazo Reyes BFA Art

Kaitlyn Rose White BFA Theatre 

Bachelor of Music

Paul Jonathan Joseph BM Music

Ju-Young A. Morimoto BM Music; Art 

Bachelor of Science

Gabrielle Akins BS Biology

Melanie Renee鈥� Alcorn BS Educational Studies

Karla Naomy Alvarado-Velazquez BS Biology

Jesus Eriberto Anguiano BS Radiologic Science

Bailey LaRaen Armstrong BS Wellness Studies

Maycie Lynn Armstrong BS Elementary Education

Jonathan Everett Arnone BS Radiologic Science

Emily Christine Baldwin BS Kinesiology

Stephanie Basurto BS Elementary Education

Brooke Bouillon BS Radiologic Science

Erin Caitlin Bradfield BS Biology

Averee Anna Brattin BS Radiologic Science

Chloe Elizabeth Brundick BS Biology; Psychology

Cayla Jean Callahan BS Radiologic Science

Bailey Corinne Calvin BS Elementary Education

Katelyn J. Carcione BS Special Education

Franky Jovanni Castro BS Kinesiology

Demetria Renee Clay BS Wellness Studies

Talley Rae Cole BS Professional Health Sciences

Ciara Colleen Corteville BS Radiologic Science

Naheed Hossini Daroghe BS Radiologic Science

Karissa Davidson BS Kinesiology

Brooke Mckenna Day BS Radiologic Science

Jaylin Lee Dinkins BS Computer Science

Danielle L. Duensing BS Healthcare Management

Trisha Kathleen Duffy BS Kinesiology

LaVonde Diane Dunigan BS Software Engineering

Isaiah Oneal Eaglin BS Software Engineering 

Norelly Faudoa-Ramirez BS Biology

Aubrey Danielle Meiron BS Healthcare Management

Alexander Ryan Fracis BS Biology

Abdell Ali Nunez BS Biology

Sarah Elizabeth Gerber BS Healthcare Management

Catharine C. Gilmore BS Radiologic Science

June Goodloe BS Cognitive Science

Travis Lee Goodmon BS Professional Health Sciences

Dae鈥橰ese Hafeez BS Computer Science

Fatimah Jonae Hamlett BS Kinesiology

Latisa Lynn Hicks BS Healthcare Management 

Sarah Louise Holman BS Kinesiology

Tarren Jaye Hudson BS Kinesiology

Tera Evette January BS Healthcare Management; Human Resources

Trinaty Marie Jeffers BS Chemistry Education

Reyven Meishai Lawrence-Joghee BS Kinesiology

Jameelah Kelly BS Healthcare Management 

Emma Grace Belle Kemper BS Biology

Maggie Mae Kilgore BS Radiologic Science

Kirryn Nikole Killingsworth BS Professional Health Sciences

Adelynn Grace Link BS Radiologic Science

Alexis Gabriela Lopez BS Elementary Education

Eric Emil McGlown Jr. BS Kinesiology

Jenae Moore BS Biology

Ryan Myers BS Computer Science

Kayla Marie Navy BS Computer Science

Malik L. Nesbitt BS Kinesiology

Madeline Belle Nunez BS Special Education

Elisa Marie N煤帽ez V谩squez BS Biology

Karen Leslie Palomar BS Radiologic Science

Gabriela Aide Parada BS Kinesiology

Kevin Antonio Ramirez-Hernandez BS Radiologic Science

Ali Jean Ray BS Radiologic Science

Yawmessia Releford BS Healthcare Management

Laura Marie Robertson BS Radiologic Science

Alexandra Elizabeth Rojas-Meier BS Healthcare Management

Sherman Allen Root BS Biology

Tessa B. Watts BS Radiologic Science

Karina Michelle Sagastume Cruz BS Professional Health Sciences

Ryan Michael Schroeder BS Computer Science

Morgan Senevey BS Radiologic Science

Shelby A. Shatto BS Biology

Talynn Nicole Simer BS Elementary Education

Noah James Smith BS Elementary Education 

Samantha Marie Smith BS Kinesiology 

Bailey Marie Stephan BS Radiologic Science

Shameka Marie Swinton BS Healthcare Management

Clay Dewayne Talton BS Professional Health Sciences

Shayan Tarakemeh BS Computer Science

Savannah Marie Taylor BS Radiologic Science

Mahtab Tirandazian BS Radiologic Science

Kurt Michael Trotter BS Kinesiology

Heylee Marie Warren BS Elementary Education

Jahkese Cortez Watkins BS Kinesiology

Carletta White BS Healthcare Management

Alexus Brookelynn Latai Wily BS Professional Health Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Joanne Mari Curz Alibayan BSBA Finance Management

Jesse Myron Auld IV BSBA Healthcare Administration

Kyleighn Lauren Block BSBA Management

Gunner Mcclain Brody BSBA Management; Marketing

Stamili N/A Buchunde BSBA Business Administration

Briley Elijah Burrow BSBA Marketing

Matheus Da SilvaSteinhaus BSBA Finance; Management

Rymington Leigh Driver BSBA Accounting

Juan Jose Escamilla BSBA Accounting; Marketing

Kaitlyn Noelle Frasher BSBA Management

Jaime Isaac Gomez BSBA Management; Marketing

McKenzie E. Green BSBA Business Administration

Dre鈥橩ar Khalil Jackman BSBA Finance

Diyhana Nicole Jordan BSBA Management

Garrett Jonathan Kalm BSBA Management

Jared Matthew Larson BSBA Business Administration

Kyle Alexander Myers BSBA Marketing

Naguib Garrett Nassir BSBA Marketing

Wyatt James Oberly BSBA Finance; Management

Lauren Nicole Paccapaniccia BSBA Management

Chloe E. Schumaker BSBA Marketing

Landon James Vahle BSBA Management

Alexander James Walton BSBA Marketing

Bachelor of Science Nursing

Anneliese Marie Aumann BSN Nursing

Faizan Baig BSN Nursing

Victor Niyi Bamidele BSN Nursing

Morgan Shae Barbagallo BSN Nursing

Camille Elizabeth Begnaud BSN Nursing 

Blair Suzanne Beltz BSN Nursing

William Thomas Bowersock BSN Nursing

Moesha M.L. Boyd BSN Nursing

Mackenzie Brosnan BSN Nursing

Madison Kathleen Theresa Byard BSN Nursing

Tierney M. Carley BSN Nursing 

Cierra Marie Cornejo BSN Nursing

Oluyemisi Ganiyat Daodu BSN Nursing

Carmaleta Lenea Davis BSN Nursing

Molly Kathryn Delaney BSN Nursing

Miciel Abigail Dinh-Arias BSN Nursing

Jacqueline Frances Everly BSN Nursing

Samantha Elizabeth Franco BSN Nursing

Alexandra Marcela Funes Carranza BSN Nursing

Emily Ann George BSN Nursing

Gabriela Goerler BSN Nursing

Gaelle Hilaire BSN Nursing

Tiera Marie Jackson BSN Nursing

Lucero Jimenez BSN Nursing

Courtney Lyn Kastelan BSN Nursing

Anthony Lee LaRose Jr. BSN Nursing

Grace LeeAnn Lowther BSN Nursing

Hanna Quynh Ly BSN Nursing

Courtney Lee Martin BSN Nursing

Rosmery Montes BSN Nursing

Katelyn D. Payan BSN Nursing

Sadie Layne Rann BSN Nursing

Sophie Renee Ruoff BSN Nursing

Saima Sarwar BSN Nursing

Margaret Susan Clare Solberg BSN Nursing

Dakota Lynn Teel BSN Nursing

Chansouda Noke Tjiang BSN Nursing

Maria C. Valleroy BSN Nursing

Hannah Marie Wastler BSN Nursing

Courtneu Donn Williams BSN Nursing

Tanner Wayne Yeisley BSN Nursing 

Bachelor of Social Work

Asma F. Abdullah BSW Social Work

Yaneisy Annet Cruz-Gallegos BSW Social Work

Jack William Eames BSW Social Work

Mollee-Beth Flores BSW Social Work

Elizabeth Ann Greer BSW Social Work

Christian Dayrel Hernandez BSW Social Work

Kalyn Blythe McCune BSW Social Work

Sophia Marissa Trimboli BSW Social Work 

HONORS

CUM LAUDE

3.5 cumulative grade-point average

Alexander James Walton

Alexander Ryan Fracis

Alexis Gabriela Lopez

Anneliese Marie Aumann

Catharine C. Gilmore

Courtney Lyn Kastelan

Dae鈥橰ese Hafeez

Grace LeeAnn Lowther

Hannah Marie Wastler

Jacqueline Frances Everly

Kaitlyn Noelle Frasher

Karen Leslie Palomar

Kinberli Yareli Picazo Reyes

Lucero Jimenez

Madison Kathleen Theresa Byard

Mollee-Beth Flores

Rymington Leigh Driver

Tallon John Vanetti

Tiera Marie Jackson

Tierney M. Carley

Yaneisy Annet Cruz-Gallegos

MAGNA CUM LAUDE

3.7 cumulative grade-point average

Adelynn Grace Link

Alexandra Marcela Funes Carranza

Angela Joy Meissen

Asma F. Abdullah

Bailey Corinne Calvin

Blair Suzanne Beltz

Brooke Mckenna Day

Chloe E. Schumaker

Cory Kent Miller

Emily Christine Baldwin

Erica Shelby

Erin Caitlin Bradfield

Heylee Marie Warren

Isabella Anne Brauner

Jopxilin Chavez Pascual

June Goodloe

Kennedy Marie Galanakis

Kyleighn Lauren Block

Landon James Vahle

Maria C. Valleroy

Rachel Sofia Howard

Sarah Louise Holman

Savannah Marie Taylor

Stephanie Basurto

Talley Rae Cole

Talynn Nicole Simer

Travis Lee Goodmon

Trinaty Marie Jeffers

Trisha Kathleen Duffy

Wyatt James Oberly

SUMMA CUM LAUDE

3.9 cumulative grade-point average

Angelica D. Martinez

Averee Anna Brattin

Brittany Ann Normand

Brooke Bouillon

Elisa Marie N煤帽ez V谩squez

Elizabeth Ann Greer

Emily Lynn Akright

Hannah Jo Leimkuhler

Jared Matthew Larson

Ju-Young A. Morimoto

Kaitlyn Rose White

Lily Stockton

Madeline Belle Nunez

McKenzie E. Green

Naheed Hossini Daroghe

Ryan Myers

Samantha Marie Smith

Sarah Jane Aislinn Fuller

Tyler Houston Lindquist

鈥淭he Ray bowl was unlike anything I鈥檝e ever done before, and to experience it with this group of people around me was incredible. We have been working incredibly hard twice a week leading up to the competition, and it was just awesome to see that it paid off. The quote that our coaches kept saying to us throughout this whole process was, 鈥淭his is the year. I can feel it,鈥� said Avila student Savannah Taylor.

鈥淲e competed against 12 other programs from Missouri and took first place. It was pretty exciting,鈥� said Dana Adler, radiologic science instructor.

鈥淭he team consisted of three members (Brooke Bouillon, Brooke Day, and Savannah Taylor) and two alternates (Averee Brattin and Naheed Daroghe). They all studied together and showed dedication and commitment resulting in taking first place. Sarah [Sanford], Taylor [Otto], and I are extremely proud of them,鈥� said Adler. 

鈥淲inning the conference was very important to us. It’s the ultimate proof of the dedication and hard work we have put into our education over the last few years. It is also validation that Avila’s Radiology program produces competent and ambitious Radiologic Technologists,鈥� said Avila student Brooke Bouillon. 

鈥淲inning was such a crazy feeling at first because I couldn鈥檛 believe what had happened. It had been a while since Avila won this competition, and to be the class that finally won again was unbelievable. I am extremely blessed I had such an amazing and smart group of girls to be by my side as we won this title,鈥� said Taylor.

鈥淚 am so proud of the class of 2023 and our bowl team. The 2023 bowl team worked diligently to prepare for the MOSRT competition, and their hard work paid off. Great job,鈥� said Taylor Otto, instructor, and clinical coordinator.

鈥淚 am so incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work these girls have put into preparing for this competition. They not only placed first but also received compliments on their professionalism. Our entire senior class showed up to support their classmates and celebrate this accomplishment together. It was truly a win for our entire program,鈥� said Sarah Sanford, program director, and assistant professor.

Metropolitan Community College and 海角直播 leaders signed a six-year, $13.7 million scholarship agreement today, creating high-quality, low-cost pathways to obtaining a bachelor鈥檚 or master鈥檚 degree. The brief ceremony, led by MCC Chancellor Dr. Kimberly Beatty and Avila President Dr. James Burkee, marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to access and opportunity.

鈥淎 college degree remains the gateway to economic mobility in the United States,鈥� said Burkee. 鈥淏ut vast inequalities exist, inequalities our friends at MCC, and we are dedicated to changing.鈥�

Under this agreement, Avila will commit to providing $13.7 million in guaranteed, full-tuition scholarships between 2023-2029 for up to 50 MCC graduates annually, based on financial need. Plus, most students graduating with an associate degree from MCC will receive automatic admission to Avila. Should they choose to earn their master鈥檚 degree, Avila will also offer a discounted pathway to graduate degree programs for these MCC students. 

鈥淎s we all know, finances are frequently the biggest obstacle for students wishing to further themselves through education,鈥� said Beatty. 鈥淭his agreement makes it incredibly easy for a student with an associate degree from MCC to transfer seamlessly to Avila.鈥�

By accepting the transfer of the first 60 credit hours in a block and then up to 90 total transfer credits, the agreement will mean huge cost savings for MCC students who need it most.

鈥淵ou鈥檝e already done the hard work of getting into college and earning an associate’s degree; you should keep it. We鈥檙e not going to add new hoops for you to jump through to earn your bachelor鈥檚 degree,鈥� said Burkee.

This agreement will enable students to transfer credits seamlessly between MCC and Avila to obtain a bachelor鈥檚 or masters in as few credit hours as possible. 

鈥淲hen we can ease the burden by making the transfer to a four-year institution easier, that translates to fewer additional courses for completion and less debt load for our students,鈥� said Beatty. 鈥淲e are incredibly proud to partner with Avila, which 鈥� like MCC 鈥� serves many first-generation college students and underserved populations who will benefit greatly from this agreement.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

鈥淚 am excited about what this investment means for the students and their families, as well as for the Avila family,鈥� said Dr. Burkee. 鈥淎vila is the university of student opportunity in Kansas City. Making Avila the most transfer-friendly university for all MCC students while investing in a cohort of 50 new MCC scholars each year demonstrates this commitment. We are thrilled to add so many ambitious and determined students to our community.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

In most cases, students who bring an associate in arts, associate in science, or associate in applied science degree from MCC will enter Avila as juniors, and the first 60 MCC credit hours will be applied toward an Avila bachelor鈥檚 degree. Some students can transfer up to 90 hours of MCC credit to Avila, depending on the degree program.

A recent found that the nation鈥檚 hospitals鈥� turnover rate for nurses averaging 25.9%, and RN turnover rates topped those of hospitals for the first time in the survey鈥檚 history. With hospital vacancy rates at all-time highs, programs like Avila鈥檚 BSN are more critical than ever. 

While interest in nursing programs remains high across the country, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing says that nationally more than 80,000 qualified applicants were turned away by colleges and universities due to shortages of clinical sites, faculty, and other resources. 

That鈥檚 not the situation at 海角直播. Depending on their college background, Avila鈥檚 new students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in as few as 16 months of full-time study. The program prepares graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and be well-positioned to pursue healthcare careers.

Programs like Avila鈥檚 also address the growing demand for flexibility and accessibility provided by in-person and online classes. Avila retains its 70+ year commitment to personal engagement and high-touch experiential learning throughout every nursing program. Students can expect to receive the benefits of private education at an affordable price and with the flexibility they need.

 鈥淭he shortage of nurses in Missouri is a real and immediate problem. Being able to provide an additional path to a BSN at this time is more important than ever. The ABSN track is a true fit with Avila鈥檚 mission to service and accessibility,鈥� said Chair of Avila鈥檚 School of Nursing Angela Yanez, DPN, RN, CHSE.

Applications for the accelerated BSN will be accepted beginning January 17, 2023, and the first cohort begins their Avila journey in August. Avila students gain a strong foundation in health science knowledge that prepares them to care for patients, including skills for treating diverse conditions and patient populations, leadership competencies, and educating patients on healthier living.

For more information or to apply for these programs, please visit .

鈥淓conomically disadvantaged students are less likely than others to finish college, even when controlling for other characteristics. But some colleges are more successful than others at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating large proportions of disadvantaged students awarded with Pell Grants鈥� (U.S. News & World Report).

鈥淎lthough social mobility can be defined in many ways, it is most often quantitatively measured through economic mobility,鈥� said Avila Director of Institutional Effectiveness Craig Haile, Ph.D. 

Student success has an immediate and generational impact on students’ lives, their families, and the KC region.

鈥淎vila provides degree and certificate programs that are in high demand and needed in the KC community; thus, our graduates are able to secure jobs and advance their careers with the skills and credentials they receive at Avila,鈥� said Haile. Recent enrollment partnerships with KC Scholars, InUni, Academic Partnership (AP), and K-12 Teachers Alliance came into reality because of the shared value of providing greater access to a college degree. These commitments to providing students with a path to success help solidify Avila as Kansas City鈥檚 university of access. 

鈥淎vila鈥檚 focus on being the university of access means that the institution is committed to reaching students for whom a college education can have the greatest impact,鈥� said Haile. 鈥淎vila provides access and support for determined students with tremendous potential. Having these students succeed will have immediate and long-term effects on their lives, the lives of their families, and on the KC region as a whole for multiple generations, as research has shown that educational advantage is persistent to future generations.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

Leveling the post-graduation playing field

echoes the importance a college degree can have on social mobility, 鈥淎 new study, based on millions of anonymous tax records, shows that some colleges are even more economically segregated than previously understood, while others are associated with income mobility.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

This study ranked several universities on economic diversity and student outcomes. When compared to its peers, 海角直播 ranked 9th out of 56 colleges in Missouri as median individual income [of graduates] at age 34, and 22nd out of 56 colleges in Missouri on the overall mobility index [of graduates]. 鈥淭his measure reflects both access and outcomes, representing the likelihood that a student from Avila moved up two or more income quintiles.鈥�

鈥淎 survey of recent graduates (academic year 2019-20 and 2020-21) showed that even in the midst of the pandemic that over 95% of our graduates had a 鈥減ositive career outcome鈥� in the first six months post-graduation as defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, meaning they were employed or enrolled in graduate school. Over 85% felt they were doing as well or better economically than their parents at the same age, and over 85% felt they would do as well or better economically in the long run,鈥� said Haile.

When looking at the positive economic impact of its degrees, 海角直播 is one of the best universities in the country for social mobility. By providing access and support for students, Avila鈥檚 commitment to opportunity and student success means its graduates are more likely to improve their economic standing.  鈥淚nterestingly, there was no significant difference in average starting graduate salary regardless of their family household income bracket, indicating that our graduates born into families at the bottom of the income distribution are able to be on a level playing field with wealthier peers,鈥� said Haile.

The five students awarded are:

• Emily Garrido-Calva
• Karley Gutierrez   
• Adriana Puentes
• Jade Valdez
• Ka鈥橺em Wood 

鈥淲e are fortunate to have received grant money to support our Latinx students and encourage and excite them about the teaching profession.聽 I had the privilege of notifying several of our grant winners, and each student reacted to the news with excitement, and enthusiasm, and reported that this would help dedicate them to their studies and their dedication to become a teacher.聽 We look forward to the impact these students will make in their communities,鈥� said Natalie Cobb, Ed.D., chair of the School of Education.

鈥淎vila鈥檚 hope is that through this grant, we can bring more diversity to the teaching profession and provide a unique path for members of the Latinx community specifically, who may otherwise not be able to complete a teaching degree,鈥� said Stacy Keith, Ed.D., vice president for academic affairs. 鈥淲e believe this partnership will enrich our program by adding more diverse perspectives and voices and provide more opportunities for K-12 students to have teachers that better represent their communities.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

According to the LEC, Emerging data shows that educational outcomes improve when students are exposed to diverse teaching staff. While 25% of K-12 students across the country identify as Latinx, only 8% of educators do; the LEC wants to close that gap.