James Madison University
AC-8: Campus as a Living Laboratory

The following is an example of a relevant project.

The text is from a 2022 JMU News Article: Last spring, Assistant Architecture Professor Nick Brinen stood before the 2022 Madison Trust attendees asking them to fund his idea for giving students hands-on experience with designing projects and then actually building them. Brinen’s design-build approach would give JMU’s program something rare in architectural education. Even more “outside the box” was his plan for both materials and the types of projects students would build.

“My students,” he explained during his pitch, “will repurpose pest-infested trees into meaningful public projects. Prospective donors sat forward as Brinen explained how Harrisonburg and the Commonwealth of Virginia were cutting down hundreds of trees to stop the spread of the emerald ash borer, a destructive and invasive species of beetle. Some of those trees were dragged to landfills. Others were shredded into wood chips.

Brinen shared how he was already working with forestry officials. Mobile mills were already turning ash trees into boards. And a test project had already been designed and built right in the School of Architecture, Design and Art History’s backyard — or rather its parking lot.

That’s where JMU Occupational Therapy Clinical Education Services (OTCES) ran a program for children born with disabilities or recovering from trauma. By learning how to repair bicycles, the children strengthened their fine motor skills. By learning to ride those bikes, they strengthened their large motor skills. The challenge was lack of storage for the bikes and tools, and lack of seating or work surfaces for the children. Program leader Wendy Schwister, who is also a JMU Housekeeping Team Leader, wondered if Brinen’s students could build a storage shed.

“But,” Brinen explained, “the ethos in our architecture design studio is for students to take something ordinary and elevate it to something extraordinary.” Managing all the paperwork and client collaboration of a real architecture firm plus all the building and working with materials, students did in fact create something extraordinary.

During the presentation, Brinen’s potential investors marveled at the result: a large box built of free ash wood mounted on wheels that could roll to any location in the parking lot. It opened like a Swiss Army knife into a full bike repair shop, providing an ingeniously organized — and protected — workspace that thrilled both the occupational therapists and children. The benefits of the program also continue to open like a Swiss Army knife — from the design-build experience for students and unique learning being woven into the JMU architecture curriculum, to the local mobile-mill businesses, Harrisonburg community, local and state forestry departments. Reaching beyond campus and the local community, the project is now garnering interest from Habitat for Humanity and United Way with the potential to have a national impact. https://www.jmu.edu/news/madison-trust/2022/11-11-nick-brinen-constructs.shtml (Accessed 10/20/23)

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Sciences Capstone: Raising awareness of the plastic waste crisis at a global and local scale

Student: Mason Lee

Advising: Dr. Stephanie Stockwell

Sixty-four billion pounds of plastic enter our environment annually; every year more plastic is littered globally than the weight of every American combined. Plastics can take thousands of years to decompose. Byproducts have been found in every animal tested, even unborn children. In living creatures, plastic toxins and microplastics have been linked to cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. A 2020 study from the journal of Science states that immediate action may reduce plastic waste by nearly 80%. And yet, if trends continue, 117 billion pounds of plastic waste will enter the environment in 2030.

This capstone was inspired by projections like these, coupled with the negative impacts of plastic waste accumulation. This project encompasses a literary review of past and proposed solutions to this crisis. Additionally, field experiments were conducted for analysis and media content creation. Helping to spread crucial facts like 82% of plastics in the environment come from individuals and only 9% of plastics are recycled, may promote social change. These statistics should not despair, but inspire, as it means together through informed choices, we can diminish plastic waste in nature and protect ecosystems and humanity. https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/_files/sis-symposium-book-2022.pdf (Accessed 8/9/23)

The following are examples of relevant projects:

1. Bela Starinchak, Biology, M.S, presented a master's thesis "Pastures as natural climate solutions: a socioecological study of tree carbon and beef production trade-offs," which was one of two projects chosen for Top Poster Presentation at the Showcase of Graduate Student Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 19, 2023. Forest restoration is the most effective natural climate solution, with the potential to sequester 37% of the carbon dioxide (CO₂) needed to reach the Paris climate mitigation goal. Cattle pastures offer an underutilized opportunity to increase global forest restoration efforts, improve biodiversity, and maximize carbon storage through the adoption of management strategies that prioritize the incorporation of trees into pasturelands. However, remote estimations of tree carbon storage in pastoral systems have never been field-verified and their accuracy is unclear. Furthermore, the effect of increased trees on cattle production is understudied across biomes. Lastly, the restoration potential of these landscapes as a byproduct of tree carbon also remains to be studied. Therefore, the aims of this study were (i) compare past remote tree carbon estimations in pastureland systems to current field estimates to assess their accuracy, (ii) evaluate the effect of increasing tree carbon (MgC/ha) on the pastoral stocking density (AU/ha), (iii) quantify the woody species diversity (H’) within pastures, and (iv) compare findings between farms in temperate (n = 26) and tropical (n = 16) ecosystems. https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/celebrationofscholarship-grad/2023/poster/2/  (Accessed 4/9/24)

2. Carole Nash, professor of Integrated Science and Technology, began a citizen science project with her students that takes place on the College of Integrated Science and Engineering (CISE) rooftop patio garden. While the beauty of the space is inspiring, it can serve many purposes, including teaching about climate change through phenology. Nash's anecdotal information of earlier and earlier springs has been confirmed by the Status of Spring longitudinal study through the U.S. Phenology Network (https://www.usanpn.org/news/spring), and the students have begun a citizen science project on campus which starts with participants taking photos of plants as they bloom in the CISE patio garden beds. Students created "Bugs and Blooms," an ArcGIS Survey123 app that includes drop down menus for the plants in each bed. They want to invite visitors to use the app by taking photos of the plants as they are blooming and their pollinators. The first few years will provide baseline data that can be compared to "pre-acceleration" blooming. Source: Direct communication with professor.

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Science Capstone: Fire reduction methods for fraternity housing

Students: Nicholas Colavita, Hunter Hayden, Manav Mehta

Advising: Dr. Heather Kirkvold

Approximately 2,600 people die yearly in the United States from house-related fires (National Fire Incident Reporting System). In Harrisonburg, VA, student members of Greek fraternities attending James Madison University do not have on-campus fraternity housing and live off-campus, often in single-family residential rental units. According to local fire code officials, large social gatherings of students occur at these residences, creating extreme fire-risk conditions. In preparation for these parties, furniture is usually relocated to increase open floor space and control entrance to the property during the gathering. An outbreak of fire under these conditions (overcrowding and egress blockage) could prove catastrophic.

This project aims to deliver a validated plan for structurally reducing risk to life safety in fraternity housing in Harrisonburg, VA. This project does not address human-behavior-related issues. Instead, it focuses on passive strategies that structurally reduce risk to human life safety regardless of human behavior. A parametric analysis of candidate structural intervention strategies was conducted and aimed at identifying strategies for delaying the spread of fire should one occur. The three candidate strategies tested include replacing flooring, furnishings (furniture), and installing sprinkler systems, which are not required by Virginia code in this case.

An exemplary fraternity house in Harrisonburg was modeled using Revit. Testing of the modeled residence was performed using PyroSim, an innovative industry software tool for evaluating the spread of fire. Analysis of the results informs the recommendations included in the risk reduction plan. https://www.jmu.edu/cise/engineering/_files/engr-xchange-book-2023.pdf (Accessed 8/9/23)

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Science Capstone: Conceptual design for solar installer training design and construction of an ergonomic capacity on the JMU campus

Students: Owen Cleary, Luke Fay, Tyler Raniszewski, Josh Romero

Advising: Dr. Jonathan Miles

The installation of solar photovoltaics (PV) has grown exponentially in Virginia during the past decade, and there is a critical need to increase the workforce to maintain the increasing pace of solar deployment. The Small Wind Testing and Training Facility (SWTTF) on the JMU campus features a 10-kW wind turbine, a rack of photovoltaic (PV) panels, and balance of systems. Our team developed a conceptual design to expand and upgrade the SWTTF to provide the capacity needed to train the future workforce in Virginia that will be responsible for growing the PV industry.

An upgraded facility will feature new office and classroom space in a new building that adheres to principles of sustainability, dedicated solar installer training modules, and multiple parking spaces with chargers covered by a solar canopy to charge EVs and enhance training on clean transportation. Our effort also included the development of a conceptual business plan and market study to inform the cost-effectiveness of and demand for such a project.

 https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/_files/sis-symposium-book-2022.pdf (Accessed 8/9/23)

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Science Capstone: Quantifying local food waste and identifying sustainable disposal alternatives 

Students: Hayden Abbot, Kyle Manuel, Tatum Lupa, Max Villescas

Advising: Dr. Jared Stoltzfus

Food waste is a critical sustainability problem due to the incredible volumes generated, associated greenhouse gas emissions, and economic costs. To understand the relevant regulations, we conducted a review of state and federal laws surrounding the management of food waste. We roughly quantified food waste volumes in Harrisonburg from restaurants, grocery stores, and JMU using industry publications, EPA data, and by conducting a food waste audit. While the vast majority of food waste in Harrisonburg is sent to the landfill, local alternative disposal options could include feeding to livestock, anaerobic digestion, and composting. By creating case studies of companies providing these services, we could determine which approach to propose for JMU, considering economic, environmental, and logistical issues. https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/_files/sis-symposium-book-2023.pdf (Accessed 4/9/24)

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Science Capstone: Creating a riparian buffer at James Madison University Farm: Environmental, social and educational benefits

Students: Reggie Wilcox

Advising: Carole Nash

Sponsor: Degesch America Inc

The JMU Farm is a 31-acre property along the North River and has been an integral part of JMU’s story for nearly a century. Originally established as the Hooke Farm in 1848, its purpose shifted from farming to educational uses when the University acquired it in 1929. However, decades of streambank erosion are impacting the property and contributing to decreased water quality along the 1000-foot stretch of the river.

Our capstone project seeks to address the research question: how can we stabilize the riverbank while projecting the historic viewshed and improving public awareness? To combat erosion, we have addressed the problem from an environmental and educational standpoint. We’ve planted a 75x350-foot meadow of native plants to increase soil stabilization and improve biodiversity. As the meadow matures, the root systems of these plants will stabilize the soil, improve native habitats, increase groundwater filtration, and sequester carbon and pollution, thereby enhancing the overall ecosystem services and well-being.

The project also includes a new interpretive sign from the Institute for the Stewardship of the Natural World’s Campus Environmental Stewardship Tour, enriching the educational experience for visitors. By extending JMU’s commitment to sustainability through the establishment of the meadow and bank stabilization, we aim to set a model for the community. https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/_files/sis-symposium-book-2024.pdf (Accessed 4/9/24)

No projects were identified for this category, but there may have been projects.

A research study is being conducted (2023-2025) by Ms. Valerie Kramer, Dr. Tobias Reynolds-Tylus, Dr. Andrea Martinez Gonzalez, and Dr. Pete Bsumek from James Madison University's School of Communication Studies. The purpose of this study is to examine JMU staff, student, and faculty transportation behavior. Ms. Kramer is an MPA graduate student and campus alternative transportation manager. The Spring 2024 Environmental Campaigns seminar class participated in the study. Source: Direct communication with professors.

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Science Capstone: Improving JMU Students’ On-Campus Recycling Behaviors Using Public Feedback

Students: Braedon Miller, Stephen Afriyie

Advising: Dr. Jared Stoltzfus and Dr. Christie-Joy Hartman

Project Title: Improving JMU Students’ Recycling Behavior on Campus

In a survey by The Princeton Review, 75% of the respondents indicated that a college’s commitment to the environment would contribute to the decision about whether to apply or attend that university/institution. A 2019 survey indicates a value for environmental stewardship is similarly held by the 71% of JMU students who believe it is important JMU students take action to help the environment. However, a JMU student researcher found that many students place recyclable items in the trash and/or place incorrect items in recycling bins, which hampers university recycling efforts.

Our project aimed to improve students’ on-campus recycling behavior by correcting bin signs on campus and providing public feedback to raise awareness about the problems. In two JMU buildings, we quantified and characterized the recyclable items in the trash bins and the wrong items in the recycling bins, corrected standard signage, posted informational posters, analyzed bin contents after these two interventions, and made recommendations.

We shared the results with JMU’s Executive Council for the Institute for Stewardship of the Natural World to inform JMU’s efforts to increase the amount of JMU materials from the 40% that are currently diverted from landfill. https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/_files/sis-symposium-book-2024.pdf (Accessed 3/21/24)

The following is an example of a relevant project:

School of Integrated Science Capstone: Evaluating the Erodibility of Streams on JMU’s Campus

Students: Kota Meltzer, Oliver Hite, Johnny Quinones, Rich McFadden

Advising: Robert Brent

Sponsor: Ali Sloop, JMU Facilities Management

The history of urbanization in Harrisonburg and construction on James Madison University’s campus has greatly increased the amount of stormwater runoff in the area. This excess runoff erodes stream channels, increases sedimentation, and degrades the health of local streams. To help prevent erosion, JMU has completed several stream restoration projects on campus, and more are planned.

Our project assessed the risk of erosion associated with restored and unrestored streams on campus using the Bank Erosion Hazard Index. This assessment evaluated the effectiveness of previous restoration projects and prioritized streams for new projects based on erosion risk. Our hope is that in the future, our research will be used to implement additional erosion prevention measures on JMU’s campus and improve local water quality. https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/_files/sis-symposium-book-2024.pdf (Accessed 3/21/24)

No projects were identified for this category, but there may have been projects.

Physician Assistant Capstone: Is Racial Diversity Important When Applying to JMU PA Program? by Gaelyn E Young and Deonte J. Hope

The Physician Assistant profession is predominantly female and Caucasian. In order to increase the diversity of the profession at the level of the workforce, it is necessary to examine PA programs' role as the entryway into the profession. To that end, this evaluation aimed at surveying current and future PA students at James Madison University to understand whether racial diversity of both the program's cohort and/or its faculty was a factor in their decision to apply and/or attend the school. https://www.jmu.edu/grad/graduate-showcase/2023.shtml#oral and https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1055&context=pacapstones202029 (Accessed 4/9/24)

No projects were identified for this category, but there may have been projects.

The following are examples of relevant projects:

1. The Effect of a Wellness Curriculum on First Semester JMU PA Students

Grad students: Jeanine Aberbook and Abby Larson

Faculty advisor: Dr. Massey

Dept: Health Professions

Physician Assistant (PA) programs are rigorous graduate-level medical programs that achieve a Master's degree but complete an equal amount of credits as a Doctorate degree. They are notorious for causing high levels of stress leading up to and in the beginning of the program. While this is a well-known fact discussed between students and incoming students, it is an under-researched topic. Because of this, the faculty and students at JMU decided to implement a wellness curriculum to attempt to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms in 1st semester PA students and then analyze the effects.

The curriculum consists of matching first years with a second year buddy, activities, four transition seminars, small group discussion, and increased faculty advisor involvement. The analysis of the effect of the curriculum is done using a pre- and post-test online survey. The aspects of the survey used to address the research question are “feeling, nervous, anxious or on edge”, “unable to stop or control worrying”, “feeling down, depressed or hopeless” and “feeling little interest or pleasure doing things”. These answers are then compared to student’s feelings of importance about the topics of burnout, mindfulness, and stress reduction needing to be addressed in PA programs.

After completing the analysis, the data shows that the wellness curriculum is not successful in reducing stress, anxiety and depression symptoms in 1st semester PA students. The extreme stress of PA school can create challenges in evaluating quantitative results, however qualitative comments from 1st semester PA students report helpfulness from some aspects of the wellness curriculum.

Overall, adjustments to the survey and potentially the wellness curriculum itself need to be made in order to see benefit from the program. In addition, more years of accurately collected data are needed to evaluate the success of a wellness curriculum.

https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/celebrationofscholarship-grad/2022/poster/11/ (Accessed 8/30/23) 

2. Emergency Management at Institutions of Higher Learning (Colleges and Universities): A Semester Evaluation Study of University Administrators, Faculty, Staff and Students perception on Campus Safety Emergency Management Operation Plan (EOP)

By Mark A. Young Sr., Graduate Student 

James Madison University Faculty advisor: Jennifer Taylor, Public Administration

Universities and colleges, within the last twenty-five years have seen an increase in natural disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods as well as an influx of active shooter incidents. The Department of Education (both state and federal) have mandated that institutions of higher learning construct and implement an Emergency Operation Plan (EOP). This EOP should be an (all- hazard) whole community approach and conducive toward its perspective university or college campus.

This research was first geared towards universities and colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States due to diverse faculty, staff, and student demographics. The decision to use the demographic make of faculty, staff, and students at James Madison University was twofold (I serve as the Director of Emergency Services Management and the university has 23,000 students and over 1,500 faculty and staff).

Surveys will be randomly given to 1000 individuals (university or college administrator, faculty, staff, and students). The collected data will give insight to the following:

(1). Will most of the faculty, staff and students state that they were familiar or aware of James Madison University having an EOP.

(2). Will majority of the faculty, staff and students feel that the university is prepared to handle an incident even if the EOP does exist.

(3). Over the course of five years, has the university seen an increase in suicide/attempts and active shooter incidents that have occurred on campus more than other natural disasters.

(4). Faculty, staff, and students believe that James Madison University EOP is beneficial to the university.

(5). How often does your institution of higher learning review or disseminate Emergency Management Practices and Procedures among Faculty, Staff and Students?

(6). Is the university or college EOP easily accessible and user friendly? 

As the Director of Emergency Services Management at James Madison University and the author of a revised university EOP, my greatest concern with the EOP was accessibility and to make sure it was more user friendly among the faculty, staff, and students.

In today’s society of university faculty, staff, and students, they [EOP's] are considered microwavable. Meaning, they want it right in the faces with one click of the mouse and they don’t have to dig too much for it or read too much of it either. By examining their perspectives, understanding their culture, and thinking of what emergency management is and how the emergency operation plan works, this research will give great detail on how to prepare the university for emergencies.

https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/celebrationofscholarship-grad/2022/presentation/1/ (Accessed 8/30/23)

Each project includes a web address where more information can be found. Student projects sourced from:

-The School of Integrated Sciences Symposia for 2022, 2023, and 2024 (https://www.jmu.edu/cise/sis/senior-symposium.shtml)

-Engineering Symposium 2023 https://www.jmu.edu/cise/engineering/_files/engr-xchange-book-2023.pdf

-The Graduate Student Showcase, April 19, 2023 https://www.jmu.edu/grad/graduate-showcase/2023.shtml#oral

-Direct communication with faculty.

Completed by Essa Paterson, ISNW, 10/20/23 and updated 4/9/24.