Author: Caelin Bragg

Dr. Justin Smith, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, published “The effectiveness of a geriatric simulation suit for improving empathy and simulating the aging process for older adults in a DPT program: A pilot study” in Gerontology & Geriatrics Education June 4.

Abstract: Enhancing empathy toward older adults among physical therapy students is essential to prepare graduates to be equipped to properly treat geriatric patients in all types of healthcare settings. This pilot study evaluated the effectiveness of a homemade geriatric suit to simulate an older adult and improve empathy among physical therapy students. The Jefferson Scale of Empathy for Health Professions student version was utilized to measure empathy-related parameters before and after the geriatric simulation experience. Physical and cognitive performance tests were used to assess the effectiveness of the geriatric suit to simulate typical age-related changes in physical and cognitive performance. Additionally, sociodemographic data were collected such as age, gender and prior experience working with older adults. Following the geriatric simulation suit experience, participants did not demonstrate statistically significant post-intervention empathy scores on the Jefferson Empathy Scale (t = 2.09, p = 0.022). However, patients did demonstrate similar physical scores when compared with older adult norms while wearing the geriatric simulation suit. The geriatric simulation suit experience effectively simulated the aging process, but did not significantly increase empathy in students. The homemade geriatric simulation suit may be a feasible and cost-effective way to simulate typical age-related physical changes in older adults.

For years, this publication was a place to celebrate the excellence, creativity and dedication of Wichita State faculty and staff. From groundbreaking research to innovative teaching, Academe has been a platform to highlight the accomplishments that make our university stronger.

The tradition began in the early 2000s and carried forward for nearly two decades. When the newsletter ended in 2020, it left a gap in how we shared and recognized the remarkable work of our colleagues. Many of you told us you missed it, and we heard you.

We’re bringing Academe back because your work is so valuable, and we want to share it. This newsletter reflects our community’s shared pride in each other’s success, and it’s one of the ways we can spotlight the impact you’re making every day.

Its return also aligns with the broader efforts of the Provost’s Office to support faculty endeavors. The recent restructuring of our office has been designed to strengthen resources, foster collaboration and ensure faculty and staff have the support needed to thrive in their teaching, research and service.

With this relaunch, we invite you to read, share and celebrate alongside us. Academe is a reminder that, together, our collective achievements are shaping the future of Wichita State.

Shockers up!
Dr. Monica Lounsbery
Senior executive vice president and provost

Dr. Jennifer James, assistant teaching professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, was recognized with Dually certification in both Pediatric and Neurologic Physical Therapy from American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists.

Dr. Heather Henderson — Associate Dean for Research, Compliance and Accreditation and Assistant Professor of Public Health Sciences in the College of Health Professions Dean’s Office — was appointed as editor-in-chief for Pedagogy in Health Promotion.

Dr. Karissa Marble-Flint, Associate Professor and MA CSD (SLP) Program Coordinator in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, published “Turning the Page: Midwest SLPs’ Lived Experiences Providing Literacy Services in Schools” in Seminars in Speech and Language June 5.

Abstract: School-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs) from four midwestern states were surveyed about their knowledge and confidence regarding literacy intervention. To obtain accounts of lived experiences, SLPs who completed the survey were invited to a follow-up interview. Fourteen SLPs completed interviews with a member of the research team via a recorded Zoom meeting. The interviews were approximately an hour long and each question was presented on a shared screen. Interview data were transcribed and then analyzed using thematic analysis. Five overarching themes emerged: (1) SLPs are responsible for language services to support student literacy; (2) barriers of time, administrator knowledge, and instructional tools that support SLP literacy instruction; (3) collaboration and training would improve confidence; (4) how multi-tiered systems of support and Title I impact SLP literacy services; and (5) the role of other team members in literacy services. Overall, SLPs know that they can play an important role in literacy assessment and intervention but are unsure of how their specific skills fit into the greater school context. Training may improve confidence in serving students with literacy needs differently from other service providers. Future work could explore partnerships between SLPs and other professionals to best serve students with literacy needs.

Collaborators: Dr. Amy Peterson, Dr. Klaire Brumbaugh and Dr. Whitney Schneider-Cline.

Dr. Voncella McCleary-Jones — professor and Associate Dean for Academic, Faculty and Student Affairs in the College of Health Professions Dean’s Office — was selected to serve as a reviewer of nursing programs for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Did you know that there’s not one, not two, but three Starbucks across campus? If you need a pick-me-up between classes, stop by the RSC Starbucks. If you’re driving in and need to make a pitstop, there’s a full Starbucks at Braeburn Square. Finally, if you’re on the Innovation Campus, the NetApp building has its own Starbucks that’s open to the public.

Students may feel anxious about approaching their professors, but despite these reservations, faculty members are often their best resource for academic success and help advise them about career/academic options.

Tucked away in the southeast corner of campus is the NetApp Outdoor Recreation Area. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to study or just want to take in the breathtaking views, the spot is open to all students and visitors.

While you’re there, take the opportunity to use the pickleball and basketball courts, or stop by the NetApp Café in the NetApp building for a variety of different food options.

Shocker women’s tennis players Xin Tong Wang and Giorgia Roselli are set to compete in the 2025 ITA All-American Championships, beginning Saturday, Sept. 20 at Cary Tennis Park.

Wang and Roselli earned bids in both doubles and singles. The pair are in the qualifying draw in doubles together, and Roselli is in the pre-qualifying draw in singles, while Wang is in the main draw. The pair is ranked No. 31 in doubles, and Wang is ranked No. 73 in singles by the ITA.