Annual Doctoral Research Symposium

Michael Hahn, Ph.D. is the associate dean of the school of education at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota and also serves as an assistant professor and the director of the character and virtue education program. He received a B.A. in Political Science from Saint John’s University, an M.A. in Systematic Theology from Seton Hall University, a Th.M. in Systematic Theology from Saint John’s School of Theology, and a Ph.D. in Theology and Education from Boston College. Michael has teaching experience at the high school, undergraduate, and doctoral levels. He has given numerous academic presentations and his writing has appeared in the AXIS: Journal of Lasallian Higher Education, Journal of Catholic Higher Education, America, and Commonweal. More recently, he completed a fellowship with the University of Birmingham (UK) to earn an M.A. in Character Education and is a recipient of a Character Catalyst grant.

The True Value of a Doctoral Degree: Remembering What is Useless

Abstract: The value of higher education is questioned today, even attacked. In response, many higher education institutions have defended the value of their degrees with evidence that shows the return on investment including increased earnings, lower unemployment, and career advancement. Yet, beyond these instrumental benefits, is there any other value to higher education? What about life satisfaction? What about education for its own sake? What about the contribution to the common good?

Mary Jacobs, MA, is Associate Dean of the School of Business and Technology and MBA Program Director at Saint Mary’s University. She has been in Higher Education for 11 years and worked at Saint Mary’s for 3 ½ years. Mary has presented on the topic of Closing the Confidence Gap; Getting Comfortable Selling Yourself for several years. Her audiences include women entrepreneurs, alumni associations, and women’s resource groups within corporations and associations. She works closely with her MBA graduate students to develop a plan to leverage their new graduate degrees and prepare for their next career move. In the last 15 years, she has taught and consulted with hundreds of women entrepreneurs on growing their confidence and competence when they start their own businesses.

Strategies for Selling Yourself with Confidence with Your New Credentials

Abstract: You’ve completed your DBA -an exceptional credential- now you have to find the opportunities to realize your professional goals. This interactive workshop will get you started with strategies to find the position and the organization where you want to work and contribute. The session is hands-on and designed to start the work on talking about your competencies with your doctorate and confidently selling yourself.

Title: The Impact of Athletic Experience on the Lives of Division III Softball Players in Minnesota

Abstract: This study was designed to answer the research question, “How has being a Division III softball player in Minnesota impacted the athlete’s post-graduate life?” Softball is a sport that is introduced in elementary school. It is shown on cable sports stations for much of May in the US. It is played in parks across the United States. There is little in the literature about what happens to student-athletes after they finish competition.  The methodology of this study is grounded theory and snowball sampling techniques will be employed. Data will be gathered through interviews. Analysis will be done in multiple rounds, using Grounded Theory coding methods.

Title: Impact of Banking Regulations on Operational Risk Management

Abstract: The research will explore the impact of bank capital regulations on banks’ motivation to change their risks that have fewer regulations like operational risk. Operational risk is defined as the risk of loss resulting from inadequate or failed internal processes. In the banking industry, operational risk consists of 25% of large banks’ risk and comprises a wide variety of risks that do not meet the criteria for other risk types like credit risk. The research will focus on how weaknesses in regulations contribute to the increase in operational risk within the banking industry. Furthermore, we will explore how banks respond to regulations and manage operational risk.

Title: The Lived Experience of First-Generation Azerbaijani Immigrants in the Upper Midwest of the US During the 44-Day War Between Azerbaijan and Armenia in 2020, a pivotal period marked by conflict and displacement.

Abstract: This poster presentation offers a concise overview of a doctoral dissertation on “The Lived Experience of First-Generation Azerbaijani Immigrants in the Upper Midwest of the US During the 44-Day War Between Azerbaijan and Armenia in 2020”, a pivotal period marked by conflict and displacement. Grounded in qualitative research and guided by phenomenological principles, the study aims to illuminate the intricate interplay of cultural identity, resilience, and adversity within the context of this diasporic community. The poster presentation will highlight key aspects of the research design, qualitative methodology,  ethical considerations, and steps taken to ensure validity and credibility in the study’s findings. By shedding light on the lived experiences of this unique community, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the human dimensions of conflict, displacement, and cultural identity. It underscores the importance of qualitative inquiry in unraveling the intricate tapestry of individuals’ stories during adversity.

Title: A phenomenological study of Somali parents’ lived experiences while raising a child diagnosed with Neurodevelopmental disorder in Minnesota.

Abstract: This phenomenological research explores the lived experiences of Somali parents navigating complex variables while raising a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder. The prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders among children in the United States has been steadily increasing, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive and adequate support for Somali parents. Examining Somali parents’ unique and multifaceted experiences is essential to decrease policy and knowledge production gaps. The study employs a phenomenological approach, integrating three theoretical frameworks: Intersectionality, Critical Disability Studies, and Critical Race Studies. These theoretical frameworks provide an intersectional and comprehensive perspective on the complex realities faced by Somali parents. Within the contemporary refugee arrival points in the state of Minnesota, Somali parents’ multifaceted unique experiences fall within the theoretical framework as stated above. Incorporating concepts from the disability justice movement, this research aims to illuminate the nuanced challenges and resilience within this community, offering valuable insights to inform policies, stakeholders, and advocacy efforts. This study has implications across healthcare providers, mental health providers, education, social services providers, stakeholders, community leaders, Imam’s (Islamic faith leaders), and policymakers.

Title: How Service Design Award Finalists Successfully Promote Radical Innovations

Abstract: Innovation incites change and threatens the status quo. Consequently, actors encounter resistance when promoting innovative ideas. While research on new product development innovation promotion is abundant, little is known about the promotional strategies within service design, an emerging innovation approach. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the strategies service designers used to successfully promote radical innovations. To that end, I leveraged grounded theory methods to examine service designers’ processes, recruit and interview Service Design Network (SDN) Award finalists, analyze data, and ultimately, develop a theory grounded in service designers’ processes for successfully promoting radical innovations.

Keith has worked in the IT industry for over 30 years, providing IT outsourcing and change management consulting services for Fortune 500 organizations such as Abbott Laboratories, Maersk, Grainger, and Lenovo. Keith earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Minnesota, an MBA from St. Thomas University, and a DBA from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Keith also teaches in the graduate management program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

Dr. Michelle Anyadioha is a seasoned strategist and innovator with a track record of driving transformative growth through consumer insights, innovation, and strategic research. With advanced degrees, including a DBA, MBA, MSc in Project Management, and a BSc in Computer Science, brings a multidisciplinary approach to solving complex challenges and delivering results.Passionate about uncovering actionable insights that shape data-driven decisions.  An advocate for forward-thinking solutions, Dr. Michelle Anyadioha combines expertise in strategy and innovation with a deep commitment to fostering meaningful change. Her research interests are in leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. With a focus on understanding how businesses can adapt and thrive in rapidly changing environments, she explores the intersection of strategic innovation, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurial growth, providing fresh perspectives and practical applications for organizations of all sizes.

Dr. Saidiyo Yusuf, EdD, Psychotherapist Trainee, is a dedicated mental health professional specializing in psychotherapy, behavioral health, and human services administration. As a Psychotherapist Trainee at Horizon Mental Health & Rehabilitation Services, Dr. Saidiyo provides diagnostic assessments, individualized treatment planning, and evidence-based psychotherapy to support diverse client populations. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Saidiyo serves as Program Director for EIDBI at Iska Inc., where she leads multidisciplinary teams to enhance service delivery and regulatory compliance. As the Co-Founder of Amana Consulting Group, LLC, she offers strategic consulting to 245D-licensed and HCBS providers, focusing on program development and operational improvements. She also oversees crisis respite programs at Living Hope, ensuring effective intervention for individuals in crisis. Dr. Saidiyo holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, where she conducted her dissertation research:

“Perception on Mental Health and Treatment Methods Among Somali Immigrants in Minnesota: An Ethnographic Study.”

She is committed to advancing mental health equity, promoting culturally responsive care, and fostering clinical excellence in psychotherapy.

Title: How Do County Commissioners in the Rainy River and Lake Superior Basins Prioritize Nonpoint Pollution Watershed Work: A Grounded Theory

Abstract: How do county commissioners in the Rainy River and Lake Superior Basins prioritize nonpoint source watershed pollution work? A grounded theory. Six county commissioners in NE Minnesota participated in hour-long interviews to find out what information they needed to make decisions about implementation of watershed work. Nonpoint sources of water pollution are usually unregulated and efforts to mitigate or prevent pollution from entering lakes, streams, and rivers are voluntary. There are many studies about planning and engaging the community in adoption of practices. There was a gap in the literature about governing bodies and implementation. Support of county commissioners is critical for funding, staffing, and promoting the projects. In the face of tight budgets, complex natural environments, political views, and difficult science, it can be very difficult to fund and prioritize these activities. The Watershed Model emerged as guidance for watershed professionals to provide information and to include intentional and focused outreach to elected officials throughout the process of planning and implementation. These data were more generalizable to the state and topics than expected. The model and approach can be applied to other complex data that practitioners need to present to elected bodies to gain their support. 

Title: The Role of Carbon Markets in the Paris Agreement Emissions Reductions. Early Results and Perspectives

Abstract: Climate change is a global challenge, with economic losses estimated at 10% of the global GDP by 2050 (Carbon Credit Capital, 2023). Douris and Kim (2021) showed that 45% of the deaths between 1970 and 2019 were accountable to natural hazards. One of the main actions taken to tackle global warming is the Paris Agreement, signed in 2015 by 195 countries. Signatories of the Treaty, representing 98% of the global emissions (World Bank, 2023), commit to reduce or compensate their emissions by 55% by 2030 and be net-zero by 2050. The carbon market is a mechanism that countries are using to achieve their goals. Research data from Fujimori et al., Hof et al., and Rose et al. show that international reduction emissions trade can reduce the aggregated mitigation costs by 44-77% (as cited in Li & Duan, 2020). For Piris-Cabezas et al. (2023), the market has the potential to double Paris’ pledges. However, there is criticism against the carbon markets, stating that they have a limited impact on reductions and that they do not promote decarbonization and cleaner production (Green, 2021, Haya et al., 2023, Tvinnereim, E., & Mehling, M., 2018). The dissertation question is to assess the role that the carbon market has played in global emissions reduction under the Paris Agreement, testing if it has impacted reductions since 2015. The impact will be differentiated between developed and developing countries, and between high and low-polluting countries. This can add inputs for policies being discussed at a global level currently.

Title: The Perception on Mental Health and the Treatment Methods among Immigrant Somali in Minnesota: An Ethnographic Study

Abstract: This presentation examines the challenges Somali immigrants in the Twin Cities face in accessing quality mental healthcare. Cultural, linguistic, and religious barriers, along with trauma from the Somali Civil War, poverty, and discrimination, hinder their treatment. The Somali perception of mental health is influenced by stigma, denial, and distrust of Western treatments, with traditional and religious practices often preferred. Key themes include the impact of war trauma, language barriers, community influence on treatment decisions, and declining use of traditional Somali treatments. The study highlights the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to address hesitancy and improve mental health outcomes in this community.

Title: Exploring Self-Determination: An Inquiry into STEM Participation Rates and Undergraduates’ Pursuit of Mentorship at PWIS and HBCUs between 2010–2020

Abstract: STEM fields could face a shortage of participants soon if participation among underrepresented groups does not improve. The literature suggests several factors influencing STEM participation among underrepresented groups, such as risk aversion, stereotypes, social capital, socioeconomic status, and mentorship. This study aims to use one-way chi-square calculations and a survey to examine participation rates and students’ STEM involvement and engagement in mentorship at Predominately White Institutions and Historically Black Colleges and Universities from 2010 to 2020. The study was guided by two theories, Self-determination Theory and Zone of Proximal Development, to understand how active students are toward securing the mentorship relationship, as mentorship has been extensively studied and found to increase STEM participation. There were 418 participants that completed the survey which consisted of both closed and open-ended questions, which allowed the study to understand student experiences, develop themes, and discover any significant relationships among the variables. This study contributes to the literature on STEM diversity and mentorship by understanding which states and types of institutions have the best participation rates that closely resemble the U.S. population percentages, as well as an understanding of the self-determination of students in their approach to mentorship. Additionally, the study provides implications that can improve the participation and success of underrepresented groups in STEM education.

Title: Designing and Operationalizing Reasonable Accommodations for People with Disabilities at an Exemplar Amusement Park

Abstract: Some amusement parks like Cedar Point and Walt Disney World provide limited accessibility for people with special needs. The exemplar park within this study is 100% wheelchair accessible along with Hoyer lifts and adult-size changing tables within the public restrooms. Cedar Point is one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, providing roller coasters designed with wheelchair lifts, and attendants who can assist guests in transferring back and forth from their wheelchairs if necessary. Walt Disney World provides some attractions and accessibility but there are no changing hoists in the public restrooms to assist in lifting guests from their wheelchairs to the toilet. This qualitative study includes a narrative analysis, personal biography, and case study gleaned from an in-depth interview with the proprietor and CEO of an exemplary amusement park. The findings from this study can be used to assess and analyze the business practices that contribute to the success of the exemplar amusement park.