Celebrating Innovation and Inquiry at University Research Day 2025
The Conway School of Nursing proudly participated in The Catholic University of America's 2025 University Research Day (URD), a campus-wide event that highlights scholarly excellence and original research from students and faculty across disciplines. Held on April 2, this year’s event was co-chaired by Reiko Asano, PhD, RN, Clinical Assistant Professor at the Conway School of Nursing, underscoring the school’s leadership in research and academic inquiry. Nursing students and faculty alike explored complex healthcare issues, examined cutting-edge treatments, and reflected on the ethical dimensions of care — all while showcasing the strong academic foundation and values-driven mission of Conway Nursing.
Students presented on a range of topics from opioid overdose interventions to dementia care, while faculty-led projects explored everything from social justice in the curriculum to improving pediatric health outcomes. Below are a few of the outstanding contributions from our Conway community:
Maura Hroncich (BSN ’28)
“The Science Behind Naloxone: A Life-Saving Medication”
Maura examined the chemical properties of Naloxone (Narcan), a critical drug used to reverse opioid overdoses. Her research focused on the molecule’s dual hydrophilic and lipophilic nature, which allows it to both circulate in the bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier to block opioid receptors. Maura’s oral presentation helped raise awareness about this life-saving medication and emphasized the importance of being prepared in the fight against the opioid crisis.
Priya Mammen (BSN ’28)
“Haloperidol and Elderly Dementia Patients: Ethical and Medical Risks”
Priya investigated the use of Haloperidol, a first-generation antipsychotic, in treating agitation among elderly dementia patients. Her research revealed increased risks of mortality and movement disorders, alongside ethical concerns raised by the ANA. She proposed five alternative, non-pharmaceutical strategies to mitigate agitation, offering a more compassionate approach to care.
Sophie Allen (BSN ’28)
“Mefenamic Acid in the Management of Endometriosis-Related Pain”
Sophie’s project explored the role of Mefenamic Acid, an NSAID, in managing pain caused by endometriosis — a chronic condition affecting 1 in 10 women globally. Her analysis focused on the drug’s ability to inhibit prostaglandin production, thereby reducing inflammation and improving quality of life for those affected by this under-researched disease.
Kristina Leyden, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, CHSE
“Finding Meaning in Clinical Practice”
Dr. Leyden presented her innovative approach to helping nursing students process and reflect on emotionally challenging clinical experiences, a vital tool for student wellness and professional development.
Susan Jane Macyko, DNP ’25, CPNP, RN
“Better Informed Nurses = Healthier Students”
Dr. Macyko’s finalist presentation analyzed how school nurses participate in Student Assistance Teams (SATs) for elementary-aged children. Her research highlighted the critical role nurses play in supporting student well-being and academic success, especially through collaborative, informed care practices.
Maura Wenzel, DNP, MSN, RN
“Teaching Social Justice and Virtue in Nursing”
Dr. Wenzel shared strategies for integrating Catholic Social Teaching into nursing curricula. Her work emphasizes the importance of moral formation, virtue ethics, and social justice in the education of future nurses.
Nicholas Comeau, DNP ’25, CPNP-PC/AC
“Pediatric Deterioration Recognition Campaign”
Nicholas evaluated an education campaign designed to improve the recognition and management of deteriorating pediatric patients in acute care settings, aiming to enhance response times and outcomes.
Lia Wong (PhD Student)
“Children with Medical Complexity and Caregiver Mental Health”
Lia conducted a secondary analysis of the National Survey of Children’s Health to better understand how caregiving affects the mental health of parents and guardians of medically complex children.
Jacinta Garcia (BSN ’28)
“Hyaluronidase and Hyaluronan in Skin Hydration”
Jacinta explored the biochemical relationship between hyaluronidase and hyaluronan and their implications for skin hydration and aging — a topic with wide relevance in both clinical and consumer health.
Juliette Barth (BSN ’28)
“Osteoporosis: Methandrostenolone and Bone Density”
Juliette’s research examined the effects of methandrostenolone, an anabolic steroid, on bone density and its potential applications in osteoporosis treatment.
Kimberley Henderson, DNP, PhD ’25
“CVD Risk Factors and Interventions in African American Women”
Dr. Henderson’s research analyzed cardiovascular risk factors and the effectiveness of targeted interventions among middle-aged African American women — a population disproportionately affected by heart disease.
Lesley McCory (PhD Student)
“Creative Reflections in Clinical Education”
Lesley highlighted reflective tools and narrative strategies to help nursing students process challenging clinical moments, echoing the work of Dr. Leyden in fostering student resilience.
Moses Vidal (BSN ’28)
“Albuterol Sulfate: History, Uses & More”
Moses presented a comprehensive overview of albuterol sulfate, a bronchodilator used in the treatment of asthma and other respiratory conditions, focusing on its development, mechanism, and current clinical use.