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Global scholars take on tough questions in capstone research

Global scholars take on tough questions in capstone research

by Shannon Dufresne
 

What does fast fashion have to do with modern slavery? How does food insecurity affect a child's dental health? Can humanitarian aid keep pace with a changing world?

Seniors in Ursuline's Global Scholars program explored questions like these during the 10th annual Global Scholars Capstone Symposium, held April 21–22. Ten seniors presented original research that highlights the rigor of one of the school's signature academic programs.

The three-year program challenges students to examine complex international issues through sustained research and analysis. As part of the Ursuline Education Network (UEN), Global Scholars connects students to a broader community while strengthening skills in writing, data analytics, public speaking, and critical thinking.

Now in its 10th year, the symposium spans two days, reflecting both the program's growth and the increasing depth of student research across disciplines. Students presented their work before faculty, peers, administrators, and UEN members, including partners who joined the symposium virtually. The Q&A format encouraged discussion and allowed students to delve deeper into their research and conclusions.

Across two days, the Class of 2026 scholars presented research that reflects both depth of study and a broad range of disciplines and regions. Their work spans a wide range of global issues:
 

  • Justine Dolan examined forced labor in the South Asian fashion industry, highlighting how consumer demand shapes labor conditions.
     
  • Isabella Estevez focused on access to financial resources in underserved communities, with particular attention to the barriers faced by women and youth.
     
  • Kaitlyn Horgan explored the lasting effects of apartheid in South Africa, analyzing structural inequalities that continue to limit access to opportunity.
     
  • Adriana King analyzed the rise of anti-intellectualism in Western society and its influence on education and public discourse.
     
  • Allison Marshall evaluated the evolving role of humanitarian aid across multiple regions and the significant decline in funding, focusing on its effectiveness, impact, and future direction.
     
  • Mila Paljusaj investigated irredentism and the tensions it creates across regions, including Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
     
  • Briana Persaud connected food insecurity to pediatric dental health in sub-Saharan Africa and the United States, highlighting both limited access to nutritious food and the overconsumption of low-quality options.
     
  • Zinia Sajjad analyzed "brain drain," the migration of medical professionals from Pakistan, and the strain it places on rural health care systems.
     
  • Charlotte Snible examined authoritarian governance and minority persecution in Central Asia, a region that often receives limited international attention.
     
  • Mary Claire Sutterlin studied how tuberculosis affects agricultural systems and economies in India and Pakistan, linking public health to food production and economic stability.

The Class of 2026 continues the strong legacy of Ursuline global scholars and sets an example for those who follow, reflecting Ursuline's mission in action, with a call to lead and serve with purpose.

To learn more about Global Education at Ursuline, click HERE.

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