This is a congratulations post with Anna’s photo and explanation for her achievement: As an undergraduate researcher, Anna Oborn has contributed in significant ways to research projects, presented at three conferences, including state and university venues in the past year. She has worked on creating an afterschool makerspace at an elementary school, conducting a literature review and compiling resources and curriculum that integrated AI in makerspaces. Recently she has taken on a leadership role, leading an interview study with teachers and educators to inform the design of the program, from developing research instruments and navigating IRB to analyzing data. Her research is making a difference for students here in Cache Valley.

Keep up the great work, Anna!
#StudentLife #ITLSStudents #LearningMatters #HandsOnLearning #StudentExperience #CampusLife #InclusiveLearning #StudentSuccess

Emma Griffin received the Scholar of the Year award. In this picture, we congratulate her. Emma Griffin is an aspiring law student with experience in research, bilingual communication, and cross-cultural collaboration. Emma has worked on research with Dr. Kristin Searle, including presenting research in several venues, including Capitol Hill where she presented on how cultural connections support inclusion and academic achievement in K–12 classrooms. Emma is committed to culturally responsive practice, client support, and high-quality scholarly work. Emma’s work with bilingual families and mentoring missionaries deepened her dedication to equity, empathy, and effective communication, values that guide both her academic and professional goals

Congratulations to Emma on receiving the ITLS Award! Keep up the great work! #StudentLife #ITLSStudents #LearningMatters #HandsOnLearning #StudentExperience #CampusLife #InclusiveLearning

in the photo Stephen Kwame Ameko is presenting his study in a roundtable session to other people. His study is about “Bridging the Virtual Divide: Insights from Secondary Data on Technologies and Distance Learning in Ghana.” Drawing on Digital Divide Theory and a systematic review of studies from 2018 - 2025, Stephen unpacked how technologies like Learning Management Systems (LMS), video conferencing, and virtual simulations continue to shape, and sometimes deepen, inequalities in online education. Key findings highlighted that while digital platforms expand flexibility and engagement, barriers such as limited broadband access, digital literacy gaps, and uneven institutional resources still challenge Ghanaian distance learners. Stephen’s study calls for evidence-based interventions: digital skills training, affordable devices, hybrid learning models, and infrastructure investments to create a more inclusive and equitable distance education landscape in Ghana.

Stephen Kwame Ameko’s AECT research reveals how tech shapes both progress and inequality in Ghana’s distance learning, and why inclusive solutions matter.
#AECT#conference #StudentLife #ITLSStudents #LearningMatters #HandsOnLearning #StudentExperience #CampusLife #InclusiveLearning #StudentSuccess

AILisia Dawkins, a PhD student in ITLS, has been selected as a 2025-26 Graduate Fellow for the Center for Intersectional Gender Studies & Research. The fellowship recognizes outstanding graduate student leaders who are committed to intersectional research and practice, supporting an equitable and inclusive climate across USU’s statewide campuses. Fellows can use the support to advance their research, leadership, and work with students and community initiatives that promote equity and inclusion.

Big congratulations to AlLisia Dawkins, ITLS PhD student, for being named a 2025-26 Graduate Fellow at USU! If you want more, check the alt text.
#StudentLife #ITLSStudents #LearningMatters #HandsOnLearning #StudentExperience #CampusLife #InclusiveLearning #StudentSuccess