Come Hang Out
at Ideafest
April 21 — 2016
When?
Where?
1:00 — 3:30
Campus Center/Library/Science Bldg
1:00
1:15
Campus Center
Campus Center
Campus Center
Science Building
317 (3rd level)
Vermeer, Chevalier, and
Webber: Symbolism in
"Girl with a Pearl
Earring"
Ashley Huizinga
318 (3rd level)
319 (3rd level)
1606
[un]reformed
One Body, One Hope –
One Bridge
Forgiveness
Sandra Alexander Burt
The Key to Locks
Motivating Minds
Brad Weber
Shane Schaap
Jessica Lillo,
Lucas Simonson
Real to Reel: New York
City's Relationship
to the Cinema
Jessica Lillo
1:30
1:45
2:00
2:15
Assessing Dairy
Cattle Welfare
Ellen Westover
Building A Foundation
With My New Friend
Clive
Andrew Koetsier
Lost Sheep: A
Documentary
Nathan Walter, Connor Neal,
Ellen Inggrid Dengah,
Jessica Lillo
Peter Hoelsema, Austin
Lindemulder, Eric Fedders,
Kyle Vander Zee
Emmetsburg
Campground Design
Kendall Ackermann, Matt De
Groot, Brian Meinsma, Nathan
Reichert, Caleb Van Weelden
Human Powered Vehicle
Phillip Landon-Ruther, Tim
Brouwer, Gerrit De Raadt
Automated Shingle
Remover
Inerrancy is Bliss
Multiplication Matters
Iowa League of Heroes
Kyle Roelofs
Keana Bishop
Connor Neal, Sam Malan
Travis Vermeer, Dean
Brummel, Zack Regnerus
Contractual Capacity:
An Analysis
Preschoolers and
Numbers
Even as I am
Automated Skittles
Sorter
Kirbee Van De Berg
Lindsey Pierson
Are the Basic Needs
of a Student
Really that Basic?
Exploring the Views
on Baptism
Ellen Inggrid Dengah,
Kyle Fosse
Loken Vande Vegte, Jacob
Smith, Zach Van Engen
Dumb Jocks?
Jason Miller,
Andrew Cameron
BREAK
Get Trashed
Toys for God's Kids
Domenic Vermeulen,
Megan Kaiser
Josh Meinders, Nick
Arkema, Monte De Kam
The New Big Brother
Electric Bicycle
James Newhouse,
Lance Wunderink
Bryan Hanenburg,
AJ Korver, Chris Slice
Taking the Bible
Seriously: A Study of
Genesis 1 & 2
Historic distribution of
copperhead snakes in
Southern Iowa
First Pressing - A Better
Way to Press Apple Cider
Benjamin Hayes
Chibundo Onyia
Falstaff's Reinterpretation of Citizen Kane:
The Final Word
Bribery: International Cause
and Effect of a Multi-Billion
Dollar Corruption Norm
US Army and Korea
(1945 – 1948)
Ashley Huizinga
Ian Taylor
Tae Hyung Kim
Miyu Kawasaki
Jill Vreugdenhil
2:30
2:45
Spelling, Sentences
and Sequences
Terrific Times Tales
Mikkel Ten Napel
Joni Van Den Top
Photography and the Art
of Learning
The Economic Impact of
Somali Refugees in the
Minneapolis Area
John Brouwer
Winnie Obiero
3:00
3:15
3:30
Look at the Birds
of the Air
Adriana Greidanus
Selfishness and Objectivism:
A KSP Book Club
Research & Scholarship
Caeden Tinklenberg, Brad Weber,
Adriana Greidanus,
Ellen Westover, Kyle Roelofs,
Ashley Huizinga
3:45 – 4:45
Panel Discussions
Brendan Conley,
Jeff Carlson
Volleyball Impact
Force Sensor
Tayler Hoekstra,
Ben DeVries
2016 ASCE Steel Bridge
Competition
Juan Pablo Benitez Gonzalez,
Vanoy Harris, Ben Kielstra
1:00
Campus Center
Library
Library
Board Room (3rd level)
Learning Lab (TRC)
Reading Lounge
In Remembrance:
The Boston Massacre
Anniversary Orations
1771-1775
Why are Young People
Joining ISIS?
Agroterrorism: The Silent
Threat to Food Safety
Joshua Meribole
Anna Vande Griend, Josh Van
Groningen, Cora Okkema
Maria TeKolste
1:15
Theatre: Not Just for
Entertainment Anymore
Taylor N. Leach
Study and Revision of
Analytical Models of Pre Cast
Concrete Bridges Developed
with OpenSees
Critique on Kate Chopin
Breanna Kooiman
Juan Pablo Benitez Gonzalez
1:30
1:45
The Crusades:
The Rise of Modern
Anti-Semitism?
Slums in the Global South:
Towards More Inclusive,
Healthy and Beautiful Urban
Paradigms
Jordan Swanson
Juan Pablo Benitez Gonzalez
The Purpose of Theatrical
Arts in Western Societies:
Catharsis, Social Reform, or
the Essence of Humanity?
Poetry by E. Hughes
Why Are We So Angry?
Michel Gomes
Erica Hughes
Annie Sears
2:00
Siege of Hollywood
Ben Bajema
SQ3R:
Teaching Reading
With an Acronym
How It Works: Dordt's
Ice Storage System
Ben DeVries
Thomas Beck
2:15
2:30
Math Games vs.
Struggling Students
Stacia Muilenburg
The Creation of a Holy War:
Christianity and the Cold
War in 1950s America
Rachel Hawkins
2:45
When Inconclusive
Results Lead to Insight
Brittany Houweling
The Past, the Practice,
and the Appeal of
Writing Memoir
1, 2, 3: Count With Me!
Natalie Dailey
Educating Middle School
Students through
Reading Comprehension
Strategies
Christy Gallagher
Integrating Native Plants
into Northwest Iowa
Landscaping; Lessons
Learned
Sea Level Rise in the
Pacific Islands: Impacts,
Causes, and Response
Magnetic Monopoles
Jodi Van Otterloo
David Kusserow
Yonatan Ashenafi
Elayne Apol
3:00
Psalms 151
Math Facts
and Repetition
Kaitlyn Frye
Lindsey Van Den Berg
Cause and Effects of
Fierce Competition in
South Korean Education
Sion Yang
3:15
Multiplication Matchup
Study on
Metal Sculpture
Jordyn Woudstra
Lydia VanWingerden
Posters / Displays / Exhibits
On display in the De Yager Activity Center – presenters will be available from 1:30 – 2:30
Concrete Canoe presentation will take place at 2:45
Pizza will be served in Eckardt Lounge
Please limit yourself to one slice
Thank You’s
Students – For presenting
Faculty – For mentoring
Paul Fessler – For his enthusiasm in spearheading Ideafest
Cindy Nederhoff – For all the behind-the-scenes work
Computer Services – For the use and set-up assistance of Laptops
Library – For reserving all the equipment for our use
Sound Technicians – For handling sound systems
Maintenance – For set-up and tear-down of rooms
Dordt Dining – For making the awesome pizza
Copy Center – For printing of program
Steve Bogaard
Jenni Breems
Tom Clark
Walker Cosgrove
Mary Dengler
Carl Fictorie
Moderators
Mike Janssen
Tony Jelsma
Sanneke Kok
Bruce Kuiper
Donald Roth
Jay Shim
Mark Tazelaar
Leendert van Beek
Nolan Van Gaalen
Tim Van Soelen
Mark Volkers
What are you doing this summer?
Three current and former Dordt students will speak about their experiences doing research or
completing industry internships: the value in such positions and how they landed the job. We’ll talk
about some best practices and leave plenty of time for Q+A.
3:45 – 4:15 in CC319
Panelists: Craig Disselkoen – Off-campus research position at University of Illinois Chicago
Jordan Huisman – Off-campus internship at Principal Financial Group, Des Moines
Jenna Arkema – On-campus summer research position in Music
Wondering what it takes to get a national or international
scholarship, fellowship or award?
Hear from three current and former Dordt students speaking about their experiences applying for and
receiving national and internationally recognized scholarships, grants and awards. We’ll talk about some
best practices and leave plenty of time for Q+A.
4:15 – 4:45 in CC319
Panelists: Rachael Day – Goldwater and National Science Foundation fellowships
Rachel (De Smith) Roberts – Lilly foundation fellows program
Katie Nucaro – Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship
1:00 PM Presentations
Campus Center Board Room
In Remembrance: The Boston Massacre Anniversary Orations 1771-1775
Maria TeKolste - Faculty Sponsor: Walker Cosgrove
The Boston Massacre was just one of many events on the road to the Revolutionary War. Yet, the
imagery surrounding the Massacre holds greater sway than the imagery surrounding any other event.
One example of this is the Boston Massacre Orations, which transitioned from statements on the
dangers of standing armies to dramatic remembrances of the massacre. The reaction to the massacre,
and offered solutions to the situation in Boston, shows a change in opinions from 1771-1775. This shift
in emotion, although certainly not held by everyone, indicates a change—a decision to move towards
independence.
Campus Center 319
[un]reformed
Jessica Lillo, Lucas Simonson - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
Many students who come to Dordt are not of a Reformed faith background. Our documentary explores
the differences in Dordt's denominations and how these "unreformed" students have developed in their
faith since coming to Dordt; some difficulties they experienced when they arrived; what parts of the
reformed faith they have come to understand better; and even how much the reformed denomination
has shaped their lives.
Campus Center 318
Forgiveness
Sandra Alexander Burt - Faculty Sponsor: Bill Elgersma
I wrote a poem about forgiveness referring to how I had to find forgiveness for my mother and father in
order to heal and try to be a better person. My mother was a victim of abuse from my father. She tried
to commit suicide which caused her to give birth to me three months early. My father was injured when
he jumped from a burning building, which caused him to have mental issues.
Campus Center 317
Vermeer, Chevalier, and Webber: Symbolism in "Girl with a Pearl Earring"
Ashley Huizinga - Faculty Sponsor: Howard Schaap
Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" (painted in 1665) inspired both a book
adaptation by author Tracy Chevalier in 1999 and also a film adaptation by director Peter Webber in
2003. I explore the question of why the painting and the story that it tells would matter enough today
to be worthy of two medium adaptations, as well as comparing frequent symbols in each medium and
exploring what those symbols may stand to tell us about the time period in which they were chosen.
Science Building 1606
One Body One Hope – One Bridge
Peter Hoelsema, Austin Lindemulder, Eric Fedders, Kyle Vander Zee - Faculty Sponsor: Joel Sikkema
One Body One Hope, a mission organization based in Sioux Center, has an ever-growing area of farmland
in Liberia, Africa. In order to properly and efficiently grow and harvest that land, they are in need of a
bridge to transport large equipment across a small creek currently separating them from their farmland.
We will design a bridge with the capacity to carry any loads that are necessary for properly farming the
land. In addition, we will travel to Liberia and perform the bridge construction.
Library TRC
Why are Young People Joining ISIS?
Joshua Meribole - Faculty Sponsor: Sanneke Kok
I will be giving a presentation regarding the reason why young western adults and teenagers are joining
ISIS. My presentation will also contain information on why ISIS is different from other groups in
recruiting as well as what makes them unique and successful. I will be presenting stories from those
who have either joined ISIS or attempted and failed. My presentation will be based on two psychological
factors - cognitive closure and personal significance - discussed by social psychologists.
Library Study Café
Agroterrorism: The Silent Threat to Food Safety
Cora Okkema, Anna Vande Griend, Josh Van Groningen - Faculty Sponsor: John Olthoff
Three Dordt Agriculture seniors have researched the topic of agroterrorism and how this threat could
affect the local, state, and national food supply and international trade. Not only do we discuss which
areas are at a greater risk than others, but we also discuss how our agriculture industry can be attacked
and at what stages of production. We also present ways to be aware and prevent the spread of
pathogens through biosecurity measures.
1:15 PM Presentations
Campus Center Board Room
Theatre: Not Just for Entertainment Anymore
Taylor N. Leach - Faculty Sponsor: Teresa Ter Haar
Theatre in today's era often serves as a tool for entertainment in our society, but are we under-valuing
theatre? Besides being an enjoyable show to watch, theatre itself can serve as so much more. We take
a look at the history of theatre, it's usage and what we can use theatre for today.
Campus Center 319
Real to Reel: New York City's Relationship to the Cinema
Jessica Lillo - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
New York City has long had a relationship with film. In my independent media practicum, my goal was
to discover the accuracy of film representations of New York City in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, presenting the
findings on paper and film. For my research I have analyzed movies based on costumes, sets, characters,
plots, and stories. I am comparing these to photos of the decades, stereotypes, historic events, and
literature such as books and newspapers of this time period.
Library TRC
Study and Revision of Analytical Models of Pre Cast Concrete Bridges Developed with OpenSees
Juan Pablo Benitez Gonzalez - Faculty Sponsor: Justin Vander Werff
Previous analytical models of a precast concrete bridge (Summer 2015) developed with OpenSees (Open
System for Earthquake Engineering Simulation) failed to fully comprehend and describe the behavior at
the connections when the models were subjected to high vertical seismic acceleration. This study will
analyze the results obtained in previous analytical models to corroborate that the user and program are
providing results that represent the actual system behavior. Corrections and comments will be made to
the model and a report will be written to aid the student that will continue with this project during the
Summer of 2016.
Campus Center 318
Motivating Minds
Shane Schaap - Faculty Sponsor: Pat Kornelis
Motivating students is one of the many challenges that goes along with teaching. In my 8th grade math
class at Orange City Christian I have a number of students who struggle with motivation when learning
new concepts. I have been working with one student specifically and have done a variety of things to get
her motivated. This student has a lot of ability and I am determined to help her realize that. I hope by
meeting with her weekly and motivating her daily I will be able to help her achieve her potential as a
student. This presentation will share the results of my efforts to motivate her in the area of mathematics.
Campus Center 317
The Key to Locks
Brad Weber - Faculty Sponsor: Danielle Wyenberg
A short introduction to lock picking will introduce the typical pin-tumbler system, and give a basic
understanding of how to pick typical locks. After this a new anti-pick lock design will be explained.
Science Building 1606
Emmetsburg Campground Design
Kendall Ackermann Matt De Groot, Brian Meinsma, Nathan Reichert, Caleb Van Weelden - Faculty
Sponsor: Justin Vander Werff
The City of Emmetsburg, IA is in need of a full-service campground that provides lake access to visitors.
We will collaborate with Bolton & Menk to create construction documents detailing layout, grading,
erosion control, sewer, water, and electrical drawings for the campground facilities.
Library Study Café
Critique on Kate Chopin
Breanna Kooiman - Faculty Sponsor: Mary Dengler
Kate Chopin, one of America's "essential" writers, was condemned by many men during her time for the
"truthful depictions of women's lives" in the 19th century. This paper explores her short stories "Story
of an Hour" and "The Storm", her novel "The Awakening," and critical essays on her works. This paper
discusses her background, the historical background of the period her stories were written in, and her
view on topics like freedom of sexuality and self. I am arguing that Chopin had a warped sense of right
and wrong. http://www.katechopin.org/
1:30 PM Presentations
Campus Center Board Room
The Crusades: The Rise of Modern Anti-Semitism?
Jordan Swanson - Faculty Sponsor: Walker Cosgrove
During the Crusader Period, Jews faced many acts of mistreatment. They dealt with a number of unjust
acts, ranging from attacks on Jewish communities during the first crusade, to restrictive laws – directed
toward Jews – passed by both secular and ecclesiastical authorities. Many modern historians point to
this period as an early example of anti-Semitism. However, some historians, such as Robert Chazan, are
now questioning whether this period can rightly be identified with modern anti-Semitism. Were the
unjust acts directed towards Medieval Jews an example of early anti-Semitism, or have modern
historians unfairly misrepresented the crusaders?
Campus Center 319
Lost Sheep: A Documentary
Nathan Walter, Connor Neal, Jessica Lillo, Ellen Inggrid Dengah - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
Lost Sheep is a documentary film that follows the rugged lives of several young shepherd boys living in
the mountains of Lesotho. Each day they navigate the desolate mountain terrain, herding their sheep,
unaware of the good news of the Gospel. This film seeks to highlight their need for the Gospel and
challenge culture to bring it to them.
Campus Center 318
Building A Foundation With My New Friend Clive
Andrew Koetsier - Faculty Sponsor: Bill Elgersma
In an attempt to engage further with my college education, I enlisted in an Independent Study this
semester that would force me to read a variety of books, all from different genres. One of these was
Mere Christianity, a collection of radio broadcasts that C.S. Lewis took part in during the Second World
War. This presentation will focus on how Lewis’ words collided with a number of travelling experiences
I have had over the past year, helping to reshape what it means for me to be a Christian and live out my
faith.
Campus Center 317
Assessing Dairy Cattle Welfare
Ellen Westover - Faculty Sponsor: John Olthoff
Animal welfare is becoming increasingly important in agriculture. In the dairy industry, cow welfare and
comfort play a huge role in creating a successful operation. Several welfare audit systems are available
for producers to use. These audits cover everything from animal health to nutrition and comfort. They
can be used to assess the welfare of animals on a dairy farm and ascribe a numerical score. This
presentation describes and compares three of these audit systems and the role they will play in the
future of the dairy industry.
Library TRC
Slums in the Global South: Towards More Inclusive, Healthy and Beautiful Urban Paradigms
Juan Pablo Benitez Gonzalez - Faculty Sponsor: Tara Boer
The formation of slums are a growing urban phenomenon in the global south. The centralization of
opportunities, infrastructure and services drive millions of individuals to urban areas. New policies and
urban planning strategies have to be developed, especially in the global south, to address the needs that
these communities have. This study will attempt to find different social and economic initiatives in slums
across the world and provide recommendations for Christian engagement in these communities
Library Study Café
Why Are We So Angry?
Michel Gomes - Faculty Sponsor: Mary Dengler
"Why Are We So Angry?" is a paper that analyses the trend of venting off frustration through popular
culture. The paper will then compare and contrast it to Rastafarian philosophy, precisely the way that it
created a culture of peace. The conclusion will then offer whether or not there are things that can be
borrowed from Rastafarianism, mostly from Iconic figures such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, Soja...
Science Building 1606
Human Powered Vehicle
Phillip Landon-Ruther, Tim Brouwer, Gerrit De Raadt - Faculty Sponsor: Kayt Frisch
We are developing and constructing a vehicle that meets the requirements set forth by the ASME for
their Human Powered Vehicle competition. This entails designing a transportation device that performs
well, is safe, comfortable, lightweight, and can be built within a budget of $750.
1:45 PM Presentations
Campus Center 319
Iowa League of Heroes
Connor Neal, Sam Malan - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
Our documentary tells the story of a group of individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of
children. They do so by donating time and resources to give joy to the kids by bringing their favorite
heroes to them. The group is called the Iowa League of Heroes and they dress up as superheroes and
visit children with disabilities and children who are in hospitals. The documentary looks into why people
are so fascinated with superheroes and the idea of what it means to be a hero.
Campus Center 318
Multiplication Matters
Keana Bishop - Faculty Sponsor: Pat Kornelis
Many students face difficulties in learning their multiplication facts. This issue can become very
problematic as a student progresses through his or her schooling because multiplication is essential for
a variety of math-related concepts. This presentation outlines how one sixth grade class had the
opportunity to practice their math facts through playing a variety of games and how it affected their
multiplication skills over time.
Campus Center 317
Inerrancy is Bliss
Kyle Roelofs - Faculty Sponsor: Benjamin Lappenga
The doctrine of the inerrancy of Scripture is proclaimed by many as a teaching vital to the Church's
interpretation of Scripture and therefore its practice. Unfortunately, some advocates for this doctrine
have not provided a clear definition of inerrancy itself, and have, therefore, conflated it with the doctrine
of inspiration. This conflation has occurred through the absence of fundamental definitions, such as the
nature of truth and the intended goal of biblical literature. In this presentation, I will reveal evidence
that supports my thesis that inerrancy means bliss for those who endeavor to interpret Scripture.
Campus Center Board Room
The Purpose of Theatrical Arts in Western Societies: Catharsis, Social Reform, or the Essence of
Humanity?
Annie Sears - Faculty Sponsor: Teresa Ter Haar
Theatre’s purpose has been debated since its formalization by the Ancient Greeks. Should theatre be
cathartic, an experience that releases audience’s pent up, negative emotions? Should theatre merely
entertain? Should theatre be didactic, teaching an explicit lesson? Should theatre engender social
reform, always shaped by the culture it was created during and commenting on the culture it is released
into? These means are often pitted against one another, as if theatre can and should serve a single
purpose. I’d argue, however, that the multiplicity of theatre’s possible purposes mimics the multifaceted nature of humanity. In turn, theatre makes us human.
Science Building 1606
Automated Shingle Remover
Travis Vermeer, Dean Brummel, Zack Regnerus - Faculty Sponsor: Kevin Timmer
Need: To automate and eliminate the manual labor associated with removing shingles. Solution: To
design an automated shingle remover that eases the physical labor of removing shingles while both
utilizing power that is available on a traditional job site and saving time.
Library TRC
Poetry by E. Hughes
Erica Hughes - Faculty Sponsor: Howard Schaap
I will be presenting the poetry I wrote for the Advanced Creative Writers Workshop that took place
during the summer of 2015, the poetry portfolio written for graduate school admission, and my two
published poems.
2:00 PM Presentations
Campus Center 319
Even as I am
Ellen Inggrid Dengah, Kyle Fosse - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
Our Documentary tries to deal with the question of who we are. Specifically, we want to dig deeper into
what it means for people to have an identity in Christ. Even though we had a specific initial direction,
our interviews became as fluid as identity itself. Interviewees were encouraged to talk about things that
represent or shape who they are. As we watched the interviews form a narrative, we found a pattern of
thoughts and ideas that we’re showing in our documentary.
Campus Center Board Room
Siege of Hollywood
Ben Bajema - Faculty Sponsor: Walker Cosgrove
Hollywood is not always know for being accurate in its display of history: sometimes Hollywood hits the
mark and other times it misses by a mile. This presentation is a handful of brief highlights on the specifics
of medieval siege weapons and the accuracy of how they are displayed in movies. This will cover the
differences and similarities of movie sieges and siege weapons with actual historical evidence on how
things were. This presentation will cover siege weapons like catapults, trebuchets, and battering rams
as seen in movies like The Lord of the Rings, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, and The Chronicles of Narnia.
Campus Center 317
Contractual Capacity: An Analysis
Kirbee Van De Berg - Faculty Sponsor: Donald Roth
An unavoidable requirement when determining contractual enforceability, capacity, or the legal ability
to enter into a contractual relationship, remains an influential, and often controversial, subject within
business law. Discussed largely within cases involving minors, intoxicated persons, and those with mental
handicaps, capacity alone, or the lack thereof, can determine whether an individual is held responsible
for their actions. While fairly straightforward in certain cases, contractual capacity is not always easily
prescribed, prompting numerous questions regarding the determinative methods of the legal system. I
intend to both discuss and outline these discrepancies, focusing particularly on capacity as it relates to
intoxication.
Science Building 1606
Automated Skittles Sorter
Loken Vande Vegte, Jacob Smith, Zach Van Engen - Faculty Sponsor: Nolan Van Gaalen
The Automated Skittles Sorter is a sorting system that takes an unsorted bag of Skittles and sorts them
into separate bins by color. The sorter was built using 3-D printed material, is controlled by an Arduino
microcontroller, and uses a number of motors and sensors to properly sort Skittles to their proper
location. The sorter has been designed for Interstates Control Systems, Inc. to be used as a model to
demonstrate their industrial automation services.
Campus Center 318
Preschoolers and Numbers
Lindsey Pierson - Faculty Sponsor: Pat Kornelis
Working with early childhood students is an amazing opportunity to see them grow and develop in some
of their first academic endeavors. In preschool, we had students who were scoring a little lower in
mathematics, specifically counting. These students received time one-on-one working on counting with
a variety of strategies. As the time went along, it was difficult to see improvements or moments of
understanding. At the conclusion of the one-on-one experience, the students made no progress. Why?
How could they have not gained any knowledge? Maslow’s hierarchy of needs helps us consider why
extra assistance didn’t help these students.
Library TRC
SQ3R: Teaching Reading With an Acronym
Thomas Beck - Faculty Sponsor: Kathleen VanTol
Using a modified SQ3R, I worked with a 5th grade student on improving his non-fiction reading skills,
specifically his comprehension ability. Every week I introduced a new aspect of the SQ3R (survey,
question, read, recite, review), starting with instructing the student on what the strategy is and how to
use it, moving to having the student practice the strategy, and then ending with independent work in
applying the strategy with a non-fiction reading. After 5 weeks of work the student showed
improvement in their reading comprehension ability, moving from 4th grade to 6th grade mastery in
Jamestown Readers.
Library Study Café
How It Works: Dordt's Ice Storage System
Ben DeVries - Faculty Sponsor: Kevin Timmer
The highest energy cost of a building is typically attributed to cooling, especially during the hottest part
of the day. One method that Dordt has taken to reduce its cooling load impact is by using an ice thermal
energy storage system. While a sustainable practice, most students don’t know how the system
functions or why it is sustainable. Ice thermal energy storage systems shift cooling loads to nighttime by
cooling ice for use during the hottest part of the day.
2:15 PM Presentations
Campus Center 319
Dumb Jocks?
Jason Miller, Andrew Cameron - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
This 10-minute documentary engages the "dumb jock" stereotype that many college athletes are faced
with, and explores the struggle these student athletes face to balance the demands of academics and
athletics. We focused on Dordt football student athletes in particular, and the effect playing football has
on the rest of their college experience.
Campus Center Board Room
Math Games vs. Struggling Students
Stacia Muilenburg - Faculty Sponsor: Barb Hoekstra
In my fourth grade classroom, I worked with two of my students who struggle with math. Each day, we
practiced basic multiplication facts, as these are often stumbling blocks that hinder them from arriving
at the correct answer, even if they follow the correct steps. These basic errors can be easily avoided with
practice. The results of these assessments demonstrate how unique each student can be. Even the same
intervention can reap very different conclusions.
Campus Center 318
Exploring the Views on Baptism
Miyu Kawasaki - Faculty Sponsor: Benjamin Lappenga
As someone from a non-Reformed background, my first exposure to infant baptism was at Sioux Center
while attending Dordt College. I personally was baptized when I was ten, and I went to a Christian middle
school/high school in which most of my peers were against infant baptism. However, after witnessing
the act of infant baptism in my current church, I have come to appreciate and respect this particular
Reformed tradition. I conducted this study in hopes of gaining a deeper understanding of the significance
of infant baptism held by the Reformed faith, while studying the various other forms of baptism.
Campus Center 317
Are the Basic Needs of a Student Really that Basic?
Jill Vreugdenhil - Faculty Sponsor: Ed Starkenburg
When there is a sudden change in a child’s home life, he is destined to do worse in school. You might be
thinking, “Well yeah, but just a little worse, right?” Well I’m here to tell you, this is often not the reality.
A disturbance in a child’s basic needs, can have a very significant impact on a child’s ability to learn at
school. I observed this first hand when a struggling student was making significant gains, and suddenly
dropped his scores lower than they had ever been that school year.
Library TRC
The Past, the Practice, and the Appeal of Writing Memoir
Natalie Dailey - Faculty Sponsor: Howard Schaap
In this presentation, I will discuss the origins of memoir as a literary genre, the reasons it has become so
popular, and the difficulty and rewards of reading and writing it. It is my belief that memoir has the
capability of helping us, both as readers and as writers, to search for God and his sovereign plan in our
otherwise mundane lives. As a part of my presentation, I will also read a few pages of memoir that I
wrote during my independent study with Professor Schaap.
Library Study Café
1, 2, 3: Count With Me!
Jodi Van Otterloo - Faculty Sponsor: Gwen Marra
This presentation focuses on number sense in preschool students. Students are just beginning to learn
the basics of counting, number identification, and one-to-one correspondence. During my student
teaching experience in a preschool setting, I had the opportunity to work with students who struggled
in these areas. We started with the basics (rote counting), and gradually started applying what we
learned to more difficult concepts (one-to-one correspondence). I implemented a variety of strategies
to reach these students. By the end of one month, each student advanced their skills in these areas.
Through this Teacher Inquiry Project, I learned more about effective strategies for teaching number
sense in preschool.
2:30 PM Presentations
Campus Center Board Room
The Creation of a Holy War: Christianity and the Cold War in 1950s America
Rachel Hawkins - Faculty Sponsor: Scott Culpepper
When the Cold War started in 1947, the United States became entrenched in an ideological war that pit
the nation against the atheistic, communist Soviet Union. In the midst of this growing animosity between
the two superpowers, the decade of the 1950s saw a major revival of interest in religion. Christianity
became synonymous with a culture that was prospering economically, demographically, and politically
while also defining itself in contrast to Soviet social actions. It was a time of angst and insecurity that,
like many other times of crisis in the nation’s history, caused the people of the United States to look to
religion for hope, answers, and affirmation. Through the actions of pastors, politicians, and religious
writers as well as the sweep of events, capitalism and Americanism became entwined with Christianity.
This association caused the Cold War to become a modern Crusade in the eyes of many Americans who
sought to show the social and spiritual superiority of the American system to that of the Soviet Union.
Campus Center 318
Terific Times Tables
Joni Van Den Top - Faculty Sponsor: Pat Kornelis
Learning simple multiplication facts is not so simple for every student; however, it is important the
students know their facts so they can understand harder multiplication and division. In fourth grade,
most of the students had their multiplication facts down, but there were a couple who were falling
behind. Their progress was slow as they worked on flash cards over and over again. So I tried something
else with the fourth graders: Times Tales. This was a way to make multiplication facts visual for the
students, so they could have another way to learn their facts besides just flash cards. This presentation
will share the results of implementing this strategy to improve multiplication fluency.
Campus Center 317
Spelling, Sentences and Sequences
Mikkel Ten Napel - Faculty Sponsor: Ed Starkenburg
This project focuses on improving spelling, sentences and correct writing. The main attention of this
project was to help a sixth grade student who struggles with writing, specifically in the areas of spelling
correctly and writing sentences. The software used to monitor progress is AIMSWeb. This software
produces results of data from assessments used in classrooms everywhere. This project and its results
will provide creative strategies in addressing spelling and sentences with a struggling student.
Campus Center 319
Get Trashed
Domenic Vermeulen, Megan Kaiser - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Volkers
Megan Kaiser and I have created a documentary film on the effects of waste and how dumpster diving
can be an effective way for people to save money, create less waste, and fill their tummies!
Science Building 1606
Toys for God's Kids
Josh Meinders, Nick Arkema, Monte De Kam - Faculty Sponsor: Ben Saarloos
What does it mean to engineer from a Christian perspective? This year we applied our technical skills
and Christian perspective to assist Toys for God's Kids, a charity that donates wooden toy cars to children
across the globe. Come hear how engineering and Christianity fit together!
Library TRC
Educating Middle School Students through Reading Comprehension Strategies
Christy Gallagher - Faculty Sponsor: Kathleen VanTol
Throughout my education at Dordt I have learned about the importance of reading education for
students, especially students at the elementary and middle school level. As a year-long student teacher
I have had the opportunity to look at reading intervention at a deeper level. For a period of five weeks,
I worked with two fifth grade girls on reading comprehension strategies. This presentation will give a
brief overview of my experience with middle school reading instruction as well as how the reading
intervention strategies I implemented worked or did not work well.
Library Study Café
Integrating Native Plants into Northwest Iowa Landscaping; Lessons Learned
David Kusserow - Faculty Sponsor: Jeff Ploegstra
Tallgrass prairie is one of the most endangered ecosystems in Iowa, with less than 1% remaining
statewide. The loss of tallgrass prairie ecosystems represents a significant loss in biodiversity, ecosystem
services, and food system resilience. Incorporating native tallgrass species into landscaping such as on
Dordt’s campus could be a step towards regaining some of what has been lost. This presentation will
examine several projects attempting to integrate tallgrass prairie species on Dordt’s campus and in Sioux
Center and discuss problems and future steps.
2:45 PM Presentations
Science Building 1606
Electric Bicycle
Bryan Hanenburg, AJ Korver, Chris Slice - Faculty Sponsor: Douglas De Boer
The goal for our senior design project was to design, simulate, and build an electric bicycle that has been
optimized for use in northwest Iowa. We sought to address the shortcomings of common travel options
by offering an alternative solution. We did not wish to reinvent the wheel, but to present an existing
technology in a new way that meshes better with local values.
Campus Center 317
Photography and the Art of Learning
John Brouwer - Faculty Sponsor: David Versluis
The work of a photographer is both complex and influential. To achieve the desired exposure and clarity
of a photograph, the use of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO are the three main settings that must be in
balance. I’ll describe my journey during my semester in Nicaragua as I studied the basics of digital
photography. This photography work aided in my appreciation of Central American culture by highlighting the items of emphasis in Nicaraguan life. The process of photography also shaped my perspective
of Christianity as the power of God’s creation is presented and revealed through general revelation.
Library Study Café
Magnetic Monopoles
Yonatan Ashenafi - Faculty Sponsor: John Zwart
All magnets that produce magnetic fields around us are dipolar. They have a north pole and a south
pole. When you break these magnets into two you will have two new dipolar magnets with new poles
instead of splitting the poles. Students learn this in high school at the latest and It is widely assumed
that there are no other possibilities for magnets. In other words, it is currently popularly thought that
there are no uni-polar magnets. Is this true? Why or why not? This are the questions we will explore in
this paper.
Campus Center Board Room
When Inconclusive Results Lead to Insight
Brittany Houweling - Faculty Sponsor: Barb Hoekstra
My focus student tested above grade level on various standardized tests in math. However, formative
and summative assessments conducted within the classroom did not reflect her ability. Much of her
testing also reflected her growth in many mathematical areas was slowing. I performed various
interventions to increase procedural and logical processes on word problems, multi-step problems, and
written explanations. My finding on the effectiveness of my interventions was inconclusive. The success
of each intervention was largely dependent on the student’s disposition on a given day. However, these
inconclusive results revealed more insights into this student.
Campus Center 318
The Economic Impact of Somali Refugees in the Minneapolis Area
Winnie Obiero - Faculty Sponsor: Jan Van Vliet
There has been a huge debate whether more refuges should be let into the United States and to Europe
as well. Terrorist attacks linked to refugees have made it hard for countries to decide on the fate of
refugees. It is obviously a tough call for many countries that want to balance openness and protection
of their citizens. From this research, I evaluated the economic impacts of Somali refugees in the
Minneapolis Area. I found out that Somali refugees have contributed immensely to the Twin Cities’
economy. Their economic contribution ranges from being a source of capital, tax revenue, employment
and a source of cultural diversity.
Library TRC
Sea Level Rise in the Pacific Islands: Impacts, Causes, and Response
Elayne Apol - Faculty Sponsor: Josh Matthews
Documented evidence within scientific studies indicates that worldwide ocean depth is rising at a rate
of 3.4 +/- 0.4 mm every year. This miniscule measurement, while seemingly harmless, actually has
enormous repercussions for the Pacific Islands. Many of these tiny nations are only a few feet above sea
level, and so their infrastructure, agriculture, and natural resources all feel the adverse effects of sea
level rise much more readily than large, protected continents. There are a wide variety of causes
contributing to this problem and only a global effort will be able to stop the Pacific Islands from
disappearing altogether.
3:00 PM Presentations
Campus Center Board Room
Psalms 151
Kaitlyn Frye - Faculty Sponsor: Jay Shim
Psalms 151 is a poem I wrote for my Core 150 class based on the study of the Psalms. The overall idea of
my poem is a reflection of freshman year at college. It includes my struggles and worries, as well as my
successes, and the whole time I will point out how God has been there through it all.
Science Building 1606
First Pressing - A Better Way to Press Apple Cider
Brendan Conley, Jeff Carlson - Faculty Sponsor: Ethan Brue
In a community that has many apple trees, many apples go to waste because they are best fit for making
apple cider. Some people find using a hand crank cider press difficult and time consuming. We designed
a mechanical cider press that will enable people to quickly and easily turn apples into cider.
Campus Center 319
Historic Distribution of Copperhead Snakes in Southern Iowa
Chibundo Onyia - Faculty Sponsor: James Mahaffy
Extensive searches of historical sources (newspapers, histories, and genealogical information) suggests
copperhead snakes’ historic range was greater than the current known range in four SE counties (Lee,
Van Buren, Davis and Des Moines). Good evidence exists for the snakes in Henry and perhaps in
Jefferson and Johnson Counties; some indication that they were once found in Pottawatamie and
Fremont Counties; and some evidence from Taylor and Decatur Counties. We uncovered the only, so
far, known death by a copperhead snake in Van Buren County which occurred in 1846. We are still
looking for more evidence.
Campus Center 318
Taking the Bible Seriously: A Study of Genesis 1 & 2
Benjamin Hayes - Faculty Sponsor: Mark Verbruggen
This paper was written to compare and contrast two books: The Lost World of Adam and Eve by John
Walton and In Six Days God Created by Paulin Bedard. It takes an in-depth look at the differences
between the views of creationism and non-literal interpretations of the Bible (like the framework theory
and covenant revelation). While these two groups have bickered over the subject of the importance of
material origins in Genesis 1 & 2, this paper carefully makes a case that the two sides should meet
somewhere in the middle. While the idea of material origins in Genesis 1 & 2 is necessary, creationists
fail to realize something that the others have been getting right: looking at the text for its theological
meaning as well. Both sides have their issues, and maybe one more than the other, but this paper uses
the aforementioned books as references to show that both have something to offer.
Campus Center 317
Look at the Birds of the Air
Adriana Greidanus - Faculty Sponsor: Jeff Ploegstra
Creation sings the Father’s glory and in Matthew, Christ says that God cares for even the little sparrows—
something humans often see as insignificant. But to God, these sparrows matter. So what can we learn
from the sparrows and all the birds of the air? Learning facts about birds is good, but more than that, I
wanted to appreciate the birds and learn from them. This compilation of reflections on what humans
can learn from birds was developed over the past semester as I took time to observe birds and then
journal about what I learned.
Library Study Café
Cause and Effects of Fierce Competition in South Korean Education
Sion Yang - Faculty Sponsor: Mary Beth Pollema
While South Korea is producing some of the best-performing teenagers in the world in the area of
academics, it is also producing the unhappiest children according to a survey conducted by Organization
for Economic Co-operation Development (OECD). Although fierce competition is the driving force of the
rigorous education system in South Korea, it has detrimental effects on South Korean youths. In this
paper, I will be exploring the causes and effects of fierce competition within the South Korean education
system, and I will offer possible solutions to the problems within the South Korean academic structure.
Library TRC
Math Facts and Repetition
Lindsey Van Den Berg - Faculty Sponsor: Kathleen VanTol
In a four-week study I worked with two students who had learning disabilities in math, in order to
improve their math facts. To assist students in their math facts I helped them with a process called
Incremental Rehearsal. I will review the process of incremental rehearsal and the progress the students
made during the four weeks. I will also discuss whether Incremental Rehearsal is a method that I would
continue to use for these two students.
3:15 PM Presentations
Campus Center Board Room
Multiplication Matchup
Jordyn Woudstra - Faculty Sponsor: Barb Hoekstra
To complete my TIPs project, I worked with three students to help them improve their multiplication
skills. Because math concepts build off of one other, it was important for these students to develop
automaticity when completing fundamental multiplication facts. I met with the students for fifteen
minutes four times a week for six weeks. We met in a quiet room where I was able to lead the students
in a multiplication game or activity. These activities were designed to help students practice
multiplication facts in a fun and engaging way. After six weeks each student had shown improvement of
automaticity of the facts.
Campus Center 319
US Army and Korea (1945-1948)
Tae Hyung Kim - Faculty Sponsor: Paul Fessler
Right after World War II, the US Army decided to occupy South Korea and the US Army Government in
South Korea (USAGIK) was founded. Over the course of three years (1945-1948), the USAGIK handled
many conflicts between the US and South Koreans. These conflicts were caused by differing expectations
between the two groups. This paper will explore the differences between the two groups and provide
some insight into the conflict.
Campus Center 318
Bribery: The International Cause and Effect of a Multi-Billion Dollar Corruption Norm
Ian Taylor - Faculty Sponsor: Jan VanVliet
This paper will focus on diverging ideas and reasons of how and why corruption has a direct correlation
to different economies. Why making ethical decisions can make or break a company, and how faith
completely effects Christian Businesses. Inside of this paper Dordt’s four coordinates – Religion
Orientation, Creational Structure, Creational Development, and Contemporary Response – will be
dissected with their individual connections to the topic of economic corruption on global markets.
Science Building 1606
Volleyball Impact Force Sensor
Tayler Hoekstra, Ben DeVries - Faculty Sponsor: Kayt Frisch / Ben Saarloos
To assist with Dr. Frisch's research into volleyball shoulder injuries (potentially starting at youth), we
created a device that can be worn by players in a testing environment. The device is capable of providing
both the magnitude of an impact force as well as location of the specific force location after the player
has struck the volleyball.
Campus Center 317
Falstaff's Reinterpretation of Citizen Kane: The Final Word
Ashley Huizinga - Faculty Sponsor: Josh Matthews
All of Orson Welles’ movies are distinctive. To some degree, every movie exhibits that special Welles
touch that turned Citizen Kane into a filmmaker’s masterpiece, both in its time and even today. However,
one may also find something more than simple similarity in Welles' filmography; as in the case of Citizen
Kane and Falstaff: Chimes at Midnight, sometimes what seems to be coincidence is actually calculated
and meaningful. I will discuss the depth of parallelism between the two movies, as well as how Falstaff
can be used to interpret the “Rosebud” plot device present in Kane.
Library TRC
Study on Metal Sculpture
Lydia VanWingerden - Faculty Sponsor: Sara Alsum-Wassenaar
Metal is often considered an industrial tool, and is yet a main medium for creating beautiful pieces of
art. What then defines art as art and not some other creation? Especially with the medium of metal, it
can be very difficult to distinguish between art and craft, or any creation without artistic intention.
3:30 PM Presentations
Campus Center 317
Selfishness and Objectivism: A KSP Book Club
Caeden Tinklenberg, Adriana Greidanus, Ellen Westover, Kyle Roelofs, Brad Weber, Ashley Huizinga Faculty Sponsor: Mary Dengler
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to live in a world completely run by the state? Do you
ever ponder what the USSR looked like in all it’s glory? Have you ever dreamed of a land without
government regulation, oversight, burdensome taxes, and control? Do you question the limits of a man
with a free body, free mind, and access to means of production? If so, please join us as we discuss the
themes and ideas presented by Ayn Rand in Atlas Shrugged. “I swear by my life and my love of it that I
will never live for the sake of another man, nor ask another man to live for mine.”
Science Building 1606
2016 ASCE Steel Bridge Competition
Vanoy Harris, Juan Pablo Benitez Gonzalez, Ben Kielstra - Faculty Sponsor: Justin Vander Werff
Our project aims at a successful performance in the design, fabrication, construction and loading of a
steel bridge in the Student Steel Bridge Competition organized by the American Institute of Steel Construction and the American Society of Civil Engineers. The bridge will be judged on its “durability,
constructability, usability, stiffness, construction speed, efficiency, economy, and attractiveness.”
3:45 PM Panel discussion
Campus Center 319
What are You Doing this Summer?
Hosted by Research & Scholarship Council
Three current and former Dordt students will speak about their experiences doing research or
completing industry internships: the value in such positions and how they landed the job. We’ll talk
about some best practices and leave plenty of time for Q+A.
Panelists: Craig Disselkoen (’15) – Off-campus research position at University of Illinois Chicago
Jordan Huisman (’17) – Off-campus internship at Principal Financial Group, Des Moines
Jenna Arkema (’16) – On-campus summer research position in Music
4:15 PM Panel discussion
Campus Center 319
Wondering What it Takes to Get a National or International Scholarship, Fellowship or Award?
Hosted by Research & Scholarship Council
Hear from three current and former Dordt students speaking about their experiences applying for and
receiving national and internationally recognized scholarships, grants and awards. We’ll talk about
some best practices and leave plenty of time for Q+A.
Panelists: Rachael Day (’17) – Goldwater and National Science Foundation fellowships
Rachel De Smith (’09) – Lilly foundation fellows program
Katie Nucaro (’16) – Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship
Posters / displays / exhibits
DeYager Activity Center
Concrete Canoe
Stephanie Pausma, Bryan Van Belle, Ryan Pasveer - Faculty Sponsor: Justin Vander Werff
Come hear about this year's concrete canoe, Serenity, and all the work that goes into the making of a
concrete canoe! Presentation will be at 2:45.
Arduino Art Sculpture
Brittney Ryks, Mitchell Ten Napel, Becca Mead - Faculty Sponsor: Sara Aslum-Wassenaar
The Sculpture class that I am in had a project this semester that centered around an Arduino project
where we had the chance to collaborate with an engineering class. The small group that I was a part of
constructed a wired tree with abstracted clouds that have a lightning bolt strike down through the wired
tree. There are at least 3 different colors that are “bolted” through the tree down onto a wooden
platform. Come try and check out our interactive sculpture yourself … and let the “sparks flare up” ;)!
Wombat
Christina Chahyadinata, Hope Kramer, Lydia Van Wingerden, Sam Van Bruggen, Cheong Hun Kim Faculty Sponsor: Sara Alsum-Wassenaar
This is a collaboration project between the Art: Scultpure class and Engineering: Electrical class. We use
Arduino to create a sensor motion system. This system is attached at the end of the hanging books that
will reflected unto pieces of white drape sheets that is stretched along the ceiling. The sensor attached
will detect motion and hence respond by giving out light.
Composting and Climate Change
Lindsay Mouw, Renee Ewald - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin Eppinga / Jeremy Hummel
There is an increasing need for sustainable agriculture around the world. Composting is a sustainable
option that utilizes food and organic waste by allowing them to decompose aerobically to produce
nutrient-rich organic matter. This organic matter can be applied to gardens or fields to foster healthy
and abundant crop growth. Composting also reduces the amount of waste going into landfills. When
organic matter decomposes in landfills, it does so anaerobically, producing methane instead of carbon
dioxide, which is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Therefore, composting
is a much more sustainable option for the environment and for agriculture.
The Mechanical Hound
Jonathan Fictorie - Faculty Sponsor: Sara Alsum-Wassenaar
I'll be showcasing a sculpture as part of the Sculpture class's group exhibit. The sculpture incorporates a
computer and sensors that make it react to proximity and touch.
Identification of a Novel Protein-Protein Interaction With Neuronal Myosin Va
Tairin Van Tol, David van Beek, Shannon Vander Berg - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin Eppinga
Understanding brain health and function are prerequisites for understanding brain disease. In order for
tissue/organs/organisms to survive, cells need to communicate with each other. The most common form
of cellular communication relies on vesicle trafficking. In brain cells, or neurons, vesicles are responsible
for carrying neurotransmitters and other important signaling molecules. Myosin Va is found enriched in
synaptic terminals, but it is currently unclear how it interacts with synaptic vesicles. It is likely that Myosin
5a utilizes an adapter protein in the brain. PACSIN3 may be a candidate for a Myosin 5a adapter protein
in the brain. The methods used in our study attempt to verify an interaction between Myosin 5a adapter
protein in the brain.
Study on Caspar David Friedrich
Lydia VanWingerden - Faculty Sponsor: Matthew Drissell
Caspar David Friedrich portrayed his worldview and underlying convictions in his paintings dealing with
nature and the sublime. Seeing as how he painted during the Romantic period, how did the ideals of that
movement affect Friedrich and civilization as a whole? Friedrich's style, subject matter, and symbolism
are interwoven with his religious convictions and simultaneously reflect Romanticism's ideals.
Pennycress: Genetic Crop Analysis
Riley Schaap, Chibundo Onyia, Austin Huizenga, Ross Hoek - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma
Over a ten-week study, various mutated Pennycress plants were raised and characterized weekly
according to multiple different traits. Mutant varieties were investigated using DNA analytical
techniques to confirm which mutations existed within the genome of individual plants. Four varieties of
mutants, all of which were mutated within the FLC gene, were analyzed with respect to the wild type
plant as well as to each other. Characteristics were inspected for association with specific mutations.
Pennycress as a Practical Cover Crop for Farming Operations
Audrey Henken, Abbie Beahm, Miranda Moss - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma
Though there has been significant research done on cover crops, not many cover crops can be harvested
and utilized for their seed oil content. Pennycress is one plant that has the potential to be used for biofuel
and economically benefit the farmer. Through looking at the pennycress species, we analyzed budding
time and number of seed pods present in a set of flowering time mutants to determine which mutant
would be best for farmers to plant overall. We found that mutant #7 had the quickest budding time,
while mutant #8 had the highest average seed yield out of all the mutants.
Welcoming the Stranger: The Plight of the Immigrant
Jennifer Den Boer, Jaden Vander Berg - Faculty Sponsor: Abby Foreman
“Church Between Borders takes away the politics and gets at the human and Christian elements of this
issue.” This idea from the CRC website conveys the reason behind the immigration simulation. We know
that many people today are uninformed about the process of emmigrating to the U.S. and our hope is
to educate the community on this growing population. There are organizations meeting the needs of
immigrants coming to the Siouxland area, one example being the Mary J. Treglia Community House. The
house has worked to "help families achieve self-sufficiency, and help children learn to succeed in school
and in life". Our hope for Ideafest is to bring awareness and open up the conversation around campus.
Understanding the Long-term Effects of the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster
Derek De Vries, Jordan Huisman, Jenna Veenstra, Quintin Attema - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
The Chernobyl nuclear disaster was one of the worst nuclear incidents of all time. In this poster we will
examine a representative sample of Ukrainian citizens nearly 20 years after the Chernobyl disaster to
explore whether those who were more readily exposed to the Chernobyl disaster have different levels
of mental health issues.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Ukraine
Jacob Meyers, Gerrit den Dulk - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
The long and turbulent history of the country of Ukraine has led to unprecedented levels of mental
health disorders. In this poster we will explore demographic and childhood risk factors of post-traumatic
stress disorder in a representative sample of nearly 5000 Ukrainian citizens.
Evaluating the Impact of Hopelessness Levels on Exercise
Jason Vander Woude, Caleb Herman, Ross Hoek - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
Cardiac rehabilitation patients are encouraged to exercise as part of their post-hospitalization
treatments plans. However, not all individuals follow their doctor’s advice. In this poster we test the
hypothesis that individuals who are more hopeless (having a pervasive attitude that the future is bleak),
are less likely to exercise regularly after heart attacks.
Process of Herbaceous Grafting
Maddie Vande Kamp - Faculty Sponsor: Jeff Ploegstra
For centuries, grafting has been used as a method of plant propagation to promote growth and to
combine the beneficial qualities of one plant with another. In tomato grafting, varieties are most
commonly grafted together to unite soilborne disease resistance and a high-quality fruit yield into one
plant. This study explored the methods and benefits of grafting with tomato and squash plants.
Subjective Health in Ukraine
Tairin Van Tol, Adam Heynen, Anya Kalsbeek - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
Interestingly, simply asking people “How would you rate your health?” and providing a short list of
possible responses (Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair or Poor) can be informative about a country or
region’s overall health. This question was asked of nearly 5000 Ukrainian citizens. In this poster, we will
examine demographic, childhood and psychiatric patterns in the responses.
Pennycress Mutations
Lori Roseland, Kyle Fischer, Ben Brockmueller - Faculty Sponsor: Rob De Haan
Farmers across the country are discovering the ecological benefits of using cover crops in their normal
field rotations. The University of Minnesota is now domesticating the pennycress weed for farmers to
use as a winter crop to harvest in the spring for its seed oil to convert to biodiesel. The University of
Minnesota has created 4 genetic mutations of pennycress in an attempt to make it a more crop-rotationfriendly plant. Dordt’s Genetics class was given the 4 mutations of the pennycress plant to grow and
collect data on. Over the course of 10 weeks the plants were grown and their size, maturity, and physical
characteristics were recorded weekly. Our group focused on the correlations between height, number
of stems, and number of seed pods produced. The results of the experiment showed that there was no
significant correlation between the height of the plant and the number of seed pods produced. However,
there was an inverse correlation between the number of stems on the plant and the number of pods
produced. Overall, pennycress is not production-ready yet, but our data will help researchers determine
which genes to focus on to increase production of this new crop.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids’ Relationship with Chronic Disease and Mortality Risk in the
Offspring Cohort of the Framingham Heart Study
Anya Kalsbeek, Jenna Veenstra - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
This poster demonstrates the work we are currently doing concerning six red blood cell fatty acids (RBCFAs). Four of these FA are omega-3 FAs which are from fish oils and generally believed to have high
health benefits, and the other two FA are omega-6 FAs which are from vegetable oils. Prior research has
indicated that different FA levels are associated with incident diabetes, coronary vascular disease, and
mortality risk. Currently, we are working on determining the evidence for association between FAs and
these chronic diseases and mortality risk in individuals in the Framingham Heart Study. We will share
our recent findings using a variety of different statistical techniques.
Evaluating the Impact of Exercise Levels on Depression
John Brouwer, Logan De Graaf, Thomas Kamp, Sam Vant Hoff - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
Among the benefits of exercise, it is hypothesized that individuals with higher levels of depression will
benefit from reduced depression levels with regular exercise. In this poster, we present the results of
our work testing this hypothesis on a sample of 500 cardiac rehabilitation patients in a regional
healthcare system in Michigan.
Evaluating the Impact of Depression on Exercise
Dylan Reinders, David Van Singel, Josh Perkinson - Faculty Sponsor: Nathan Tintle
Cardiac rehabilitation patients are encouraged to exercise as part of their post-hospitalization
treatments plans. However, not all individuals follow their doctor’s advice. In this poster we test the
hypothesis that individuals who are more depressed, are less likely to exercise regularly after heart
attacks.
Arduino Project
Paul Greidanus - Faculty Sponsor: Sara Alsum-Wassenaar
We created the time turner off of Harry Potter using wood and glass.
Probiotics and Yogurt
Cassidy Vredevoogd, Alissa Pollema, Jasmin Schelhaas, Jamie Schuetz - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin
Eppinga
We will be exploring probiotics and how they are beneficially in yogurt and how they affect it. We will
even be making our own yogurts using different materials and then comparing them with store bought
yogurts microscopically.
Pennycress: A Future Feedstuff
Mark Huitsing, Dylan Bartels, Sam Roskamp, Brett Randolph - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma, Robb
DeHaan
This semester, the Advanced Genetics class at Dordt College continued the work of Kevin Dorn, a
researcher at the University of Minnesota, who is studying the development of a biofuel crop from a
common weed known as Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense). The class grew fourteen different strains of
pennycress over a period of ten weeks in Dordt College’s greenhouse. During this period, the students
recorded characteristics of the plant including (but not limited to) rate of growth, number of seed pods,
flowering rate and the general health of the plant. At the end of this time frame, the students compiled
this information and compared/contrasted these characteristics between each of the strains.
Are the Bathrooms on Campus as Clean as You Think They Are?
Danika Wagenaar, Morgan Anderson, Erin De Jong, Kristen Fedders - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin Eppinga
As students at Dordt, we were interested to examine how clean the bathrooms we all use on campus
are, so we performed an experiment that would give us a microbial count for the toilets in 5 different
places. Our experiment was testing three different cleaning categories -- disinfectant wipes, a spray, and
foam -- and examining how consistently these agents killed the microbes on our toilets. We also got a
pretty good idea of what areas of the campus may have the cleanest toilets.
A Study of the Impact of Stress on DNA Methylation in Rybp, Zc3hav1, and Fkbp5
Lauren Eekhoff - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma
DNA methylation is an epigenetic phenomenon used to regulate gene expression in cells. Methylation is
a normal process, but certain environmental factors – like stress – can cause differential methylation
patterns in certain genes. This differential methylation could be correlated with a higher susceptibility
to depression. Three genes in particular – Fkbp5, Rybp, and Zc3hav1 – were analyzed for differential
methylation in mice.
Mindsets and Mathematics
Kate Van Weelden - Faculty Sponsor: Valorie Zonnefeld
Mathematics is a subject where many students tend to have a fixed mindset. Often students believe they
are not “math people”, and they limit themselves to growth and achievement. By utilizing mindset
practices from Carol Dweck and Jo Boaler, applications were taught to a control group of six students
from a developmental mathematics course of 23 students. Using activities, discussions, videos, and
additional mindset treatments, the control group was shown to have made significant improvement in
their mindset towards mathematics. Students responded positively to the mindset treatments providing
promising evidence towards achievement.
Does BAC-Down Really Work?
Ashley Meinders, Shelby Moss - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin Eppinga
We are testing our microbiology lab station to assess microbial accumulation at various points during an
experiment and throughout the day. We are testing to see how many microbes settle on the station
overnight, immediately after applying BAC-Down before experimentation, immediately following
experimentation, and immediately after applying BAC-Down before leaving the lab at the end. We
hypothesize that the greatest accumulation will be found overnight due to the constant air exposure of
the lab, and the lack of interference or reduction provided overnight.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Framingham Heart Study
Brandon Vander Stoep, Sydni Crow, Anya Kalsbeek - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma
Abnormal fatty acid levels in the body have been linked to a variety of diseases and conditions, including
diabetes, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. The information gathered in this study compiled
information from past research and the Framingham Heart Study to determine a relationship between
genes that respond to abnormal fatty acid levels and control inflammation responses. A genome-wide
association analysis was conducted on a dataset from the Framingham Heart Study to identify the genes
that are associated with these phenotypes. As a result of our data analysis, specific genes that play roles
in the regulation of fatty acid levels and inflammation response have been identified at common single
nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). These may increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease among
the population.
Hand Washing
Thea Sampurno, Anisa Patterson, Stephanie Haan, Kyra Adams - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin Eppinga
We are going to be testing how well Dordt students wash their hands. We will use a black light and glo
germ lotions to evaluate this. We will ask them to apply the lotion without them knowing what the
experiment is. They will go to the bathroom and wash their hands. After they come out they will put
their hands under the black light in a box to see how much their hands glow.
Pennycress: Worth More Than Pennies?
Gretchen Webster, Dalton Webster, Andrea Borup, Julia Bos - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma, Robb
DeHaan
Pennycress is a common winter annual weed in the Midwest; it has a very long dormancy time which
allows it to stay in the seed bank for a long period of time. University of Minnesota is attempting to
utilize the plant as a winter cover crop which can be harvested in the spring to be processed for biofuel.
The objective of the research that we are doing is to determine the mutations that affect flowering time
and which mutations could be best changed to shorten time to flowering in order to better suit the
timeline of farmers.
Genome-Wide Association Study Analysis of Inflammation Biomarkers
Caeden Tinklenberg, Rebecca Megchelsen, Nate Gerdes, Becci Madden - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma
This study stemmed from a curiosity about the connection between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and
single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within genes related to inflammation. Genomes from the
Framingham heart study were screened using a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for SNPs
association with heart disease, and then further selected based on the host gene’s role in inflammation.
Of the gene SNPs that fit this criterion, 6 were chosen for further characterization. These SNPs may be
useful for predicting risk of atherosclerosis and CVD in general populations and individuals.
Noxious Weed or Useful Crop?
Bekah Olson, Paul Greidanus, Ross Van Gaalen - Faculty Sponsor: Tony Jelsma
In the past Pennycress has been known notoriously as a terrible weed that chokes out any crop within
its reach. What if this didn’t need to be the case? In this lab, we grew and studied 15 different pennycress
mutations, which were isolated to optimize a certain set of traits. Researchers at the University of
Minnesota has been developing this plant as a useful winter cover crop, not only to reduce soil erosion,
but that also provides biofuel that can be sold for profit. To assist with the gathering of data, we were
able to observe and record the growth of a sample of mutants with key traits such as fast grow time,
large seeds, etc.
Library Study Café
Bacteria's Silver Stake: Exploring the Effectiveness of Silver Nanoparticles against Bacteria
Fedilia Lalruatsangi - Faculty Sponsor: Robbin Eppinga
The effect of silver as an anti-microbial is well known, and has even led to some advertising of consumer
products based on their antibacterial properties. However, the effectiveness of silver nanoparticles in
these products is not well known. In this project, a solution of colloidal silver as a silver nanoparticle will
be used to explore its effectiveness against bacteria.