Howard Payne University’s School of Science and Mathematics recently attended the Texas Academy of Science conference in Waco on February 28-March 1. Dr. Kristen Hutchins, dean of the School of Science and Mathematics and professor of biology, and Dr. Dennis Gibson, associate professor of chemistry and department chair of physical sciences, brought seven students to the conference. Two seniors were accepted to present their research posters at the conference.

Ethan Cortez, Guy D. Newman Honors Academy and biomedical science double major from Brownwood, presented a poster titled: “Environmental Stressors on Zebrafish and the Impact of Vitamin D.”

Nolan Godfrey, biomedical science major from Early, presented a poster titled: “Fluorescence Microscopy Analysis of Microplastic Interactions with Microorganisms.”

Other students attending the conference were Ian Cortez, Honors Academy and biochemistry double major from Brownwood; Jessi Lloyd, biomedical science major from Coleman; Kellen McKee, Honors Academy and biomedical science double major from Azle; Bailey Nobles, biomedical science major from Robstown; and Addysage Seay, biochemistry major from Choudrant, LA.

According to the Texas Academy of Science, their mission is to “foster student mentorship and research excellence through our annual scientific meetings and the publication of the Texas Journal of Science.” Dr. Gibson will serve on the 2025-2026 Board of Directors as the Vice President for Texas Academy of Science.

“I am excited to accept this role as Vice President of the Texas Academy of Science,” said Dr. Gibson. “It will allow me to directly impact the development of the next generation of scientists and also strengthen our collaborations between HPU and other institutions.”

Dr. Hutchins expressed how grateful she was for the students who attended the conference and her excitement for Dr. Gibson’s new role.

“I am proud of our students and enjoy seeing their love of science through conference experiences like TAS. They listen well, ask questions and talk with others about research, all of which are aspects of how we share knowledge in the science community. I am also thrilled that Dr. Gibson will be representing HPU as vice president this year. He’ll do a great job!”

For more information about HPU’s School of Science and Mathematics, visit www.hputx.edu/sosm.