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Changing museum culture using artists, communities, and educatorsThis thesis explores the historical context of cultural appropriation throughout history. Specifically focusing on the incorporation of ancient Egyptian symbols and practices into European art and religion. The study highlights the influence of Hermeticism and Egyptian iconography on Renaissance artists such as Francesco Vanni and the manipulation of Egyptian culture by Pope Sixtus V to expand Catholic dominance. Through a critical analysis of museum practices, the thesis draws parallels between historical appropriation and modern museum ethics, arguing for the ethical return of artifacts to their rightful owners. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration between museums, communities, and artists to foster a more respectful and informed approach to curation. By examining contemporary examples like the Temple of Dendur and discussing the role of historical recreations, the thesis advocates for museums to transition from spaces of colonial legacy to inclusive centers of education, respect, and cultural exchange. Keywords: Museum Ethics, Cultural Appropriation, Ancient Egypt, Renaissance Art, Hermeticism, Francesco Vanni, Egyptian Symbolism, Counter-Reformation, Artifact Repatriation, Museum Reform, Historical Recreation, Colonial Legacy, Cultural Sensitivity, Ethical Curation, Museum Policy.
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A category theoretic bridge from classical error correction to quantum error correctionBoth the category Set of sets and functions as well as the category EVect of Euclidean vector spaces and their linear maps form monoidal categories under the Cartesian product and the tensor product, respectively. We categorically model classical computing within a full monoidal subcategory of Set, and similarly quantum computing within a full monoidal subcategory of EVect. The free functor offers a map expressing how all classical computing algorithms can be functorially mapped to a corresponding quantum algorithm. Error correction codes are included in this model using natural transformations and shown by examples, i.e Hamming codes and Toric codes, to maintain the objects and morphisms of their respective categories. Keywords: mathematics, math, computer science, linear algebra, Deustch-Josza algorithm, Toric codes, Hamming codes, Three-Bit Repetition code, Three-Qubit Repetition code, category theory, quan-tum computing, classical computing, error correction, classical error correction, quantum error correction, free functor, monoidal category, category
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How art education can address post-Covid student apathySince returning to in-person learning post-Covid, educators have observed a rise in student apathy, characterized by low motivation, disinterest, and fear of failure. This paper investigates how contemporary art education can address these challenges by providing therapeutic benefits and creating engaging, meaningful educational experiences. Artmaking offers a safe space for self-expression and self-regulation, while playful and discovery-based approaches promote risk-taking, metacognition, and student agency. Collaborative activities and thematic projects build community and connect learning to broader life experiences. By reframing art education to meet students’ psychological and emotional needs, we can foster their growth as learners and individuals in a post-pandemic world. Keywords: Art education, visual arts education, art, post-pandemic, post-Covid, student apathy, student motivation, student engagement, education, child development, social change, therapeutic art, self-expression, emotional regulation, play, playfulness, risk-taking, agency, discovery, metacognition, self-efficacy, collaboration, themes in art
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Presidential partisanship compared to migration push factors: a study of undocumented migration in the U.S.With the recent re-election of Donald Trump to the presidential office, many Americans are worried about what is to come concerning immigration policy, particularly for those who are undocumented. While immigration is a highly divisive issue in political debates, the reality of implementation indicates that both the democratic and republican parties are harsh on undocumented migration. I hypothesize that the immigration policies of the United States are reactionary in relation to undocumented migration and therefore rely more heavily on the push factors of migration from foreign countries rather than the political ideology of the president. The findings of this paper ultimately support my hypothesis that presidential ideology is not statistically significant in handling undocumented migration. However, they also conclude that push factors do not fully explain the trends in undocumented migration either. Keywords International Relations, Undocumented Migration, Political Ideology, Push Factors, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George Bush, Joe Biden
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The opioid overdose crisis in New York: a study on the impacts of policy, demographics, and treatment accessThere is a notable gap in research examining the opioid epidemic between 2016 and 2021, particularly across all counties in New York state. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the factors contributing to opioid overdose deaths, focusing on demographics, drug-related crime, healthcare events, and policy. The model reveals that opioid overdose death rates are higher across counties with larger populations of Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and multiracial populations, highlighting potential disparities in substance abuse treatment access. Additionally, the findings show that healthcare visits for opioid overdose or abuse are associated with increasing mortality rates, suggesting a lack of coordinated care across counties. However, the interaction between healthcare facility visits for opioid abuse and admissions to OASAS-certified drug treatment programs is associated with a decrease in opioid overdose deaths. This is likely due to the effectiveness of these certified programs in preventing overdose, even in the rare instances when coordinated care is employed. Surprisingly, drug misdemeanor charges are correlated to a reduction in overdose deaths, possibly reflecting the success of drug diversion programs that offer treatment over incarceration. Conversely, the legalization of recreational marijuana and the COVID-19 pandemic are strongly associated with higher overdose death rates, potentially due to shifts in drug-use patterns, increased substance availability, and disruptions in addiction treatment services. These findings emphasize the need for sustained access to healthcare and highlight critical gaps in treatment and intervention efforts across New York State. Keywords: Business Analytics, Opioid Overdose, Mixed-effects model, COVID-19 pandemic
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Sustainability: educating, communicating, and implementingTo achieve global sustainability, we must start in our own communities. Using the Global Goals for Sustainable Development and acknowledging the three pillars of sustainability - Environment, Society and Economics as a foundation, this thesis explores how integrating sustainable knowledge and skills with individual passions creates a chain reaction that supports and enriches our communities and connects sustainability actions from individuals to small towns to the entire world. When supported through interdisciplinary programming, knowledge and skills open up doors to leadership opportunities in our own communities allowing for sustainability to be integrated in even more impactful, innovative and effective ways. Over the past three years at New Paltz my education gives an example of what a non-traditional, interdisciplinary learning approach can become. Through the opportunity to be a Sustainability Ambassador, taking sustainability classes, having different leadership positions, and working to implement sustainability in many different sectors of our campus, it is clear to me that sustainability is everywhere, and it is in everything. However, it is evident that this sentiment is not widely known or shared. My thesis question centers upon how I can effectively work to help integrate sustainability across our campus? What are effective modes of communication and education about sustainability while implementing specific action projects? By developing posters dedicated to each of the seventeen Global Goals, establishing a Sustainability Zine Library, creating sustainability zines, working as a Team Leader for our Bike Friendly Campus initiative - in conjunction with my other work in leadership positions - I provide a framework and model for communicating and educating about sustainability at New Paltz to help our community become stronger, more sustainable and more resilient. Keywords: Environmental Studies, Sustainability, Community, Education, Leadership, The Global Goals, Communication, Global Connections
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The domestication syndrome: why some dogs might not get adoptedDomestication is the process of selective breeding of a species to alter the biobehavioral profile of that species. A hypothesized set of characteristics is said to be the result of domestication and is thus referred to as "the domestication syndrome." While the cause of this hypothesized "syndrome" is not understood, dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are said to exhibit all the traits resulting from the domestication syndrome. To test if the number of characteristics described in the domestication syndrome a dog possesses correlates with time spent in a dog shelter, data was attempted to be collected from various dog shelters in the Hudson Valley Region, NY. The lack of response, probably due to overcrowding in shelters and overworked staff, resulted in little data collected to test the original hypothesis. Rather, the implications of this research were examined. Life in dog shelters is stressful for the animal, and enrichment may lessen this stress, thus providing positive behaviors that potential adopters are looking for. The dogs' comfort in a shelter should be a priority, and enrichment activities can improve the welfare of these animals. Keywords: Biology, domestication, Canis lupus familiaris, shelter, adoption, breeding, reform, enrichment Author's Note: Originally, the length and content of the document were going to resemble a scientific journal, after the lack of data collection was possible, implications of the original study question were explored, elongating the document and altering the content.
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Studying military narrative identities: influence of military experiences on narrative identitiesThe purpose of this study was to conduct an exploratory analysis of how military identities are developed via lived experiences within the military. Participants (N=8) included current and past military members with varying jobs and ranks from the United States Air Force. Semi-structured interviews were conducted remotely via Zoom, allowing participants to describe their experiences with military life. Reflexive thematic analysis (TA) was used to identify five emergent themes including: Poor Leadership, Rank, Teamwork and Mutual Support, Influential Mentors and Challenges Being a Woman. The study highlights how military life influences autonomy, rank progression, and resilience, while also promoting community through mentorship, support networks, and teamwork within the military community. Keywords: Psychology, Narrative Identities, Military, Military Narrative Identities, Identities, Qualitative, Qualitative Research
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Beyond language proficiency: addressing the emotional and psychological needs of English language learners in New York StateEnglish Language Learners, or ELLs, have become a growing population in the United States over the past couple of decades. In states like New York, where the number of immigrants accounts for a significant percentage of the population and is increasing every year, local governments and school districts are faced with the responsibility of adjusting policies and perspectives as the cultures of their neighborhoods change. ELLs are a growing community that requires support beyond what is available in a general education classroom. The primary concern for educators regarding ELL students is their academic success and, more specifically, their proficiency in the English language. Although English proficiency is an important goal for ELLs, their emotional needs and mental health are often not given the same importance or even taken into consideration. This paper offers a unique perspective into the psychological implications of being an ELL and aims to highlight the real experiences of students in ELL programs in New York State. The research for this paper was conducted through an analysis of various academic papers and journal articles focusing on ELL programs, language anxiety, and case studies pertaining to the psychology of ELLs, as well as interviews with teachers in ELL programs and general education teachers with experience working with ELLs. The causes of mental health issues for ELL students explored in this paper include previous trauma, language anxiety, and cultural assimilation. The emotional unwellness of ELLs discussed in this paper impacts many aspects of their lives, including academic performance, home life, personal identity, cognitive and social development, and future success. There is a disproportionate connection between ELL students and psychological issues, putting these students at an even greater disadvantage. These findings indicate that educators of ELLs must be more aware of their students’ backgrounds and must be well-prepared to support their students not only academically but emotionally and socially as well. Teachers must carefully and constructively consider their pedagogical approaches to educating ELL students and create classroom environments that are supportive, engaging, encouraging, understanding, and respectful of all students. Keywords: early childhood and childhood education, English Language Learners (ELLs), New York State Education Department, English language immersion
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The aging woman in the 21st century: a personal journey into adulthood through culture and expectationsThis collection of poems explores the coming of age experience as a woman as well as growing older in a way that indelibly links the interior experience of aging with cultural notions of generationality and age. Aging is often identified through the changing of cultural ideas and icons and the ways in which, over time, we start to notice the recurring themes and messaging in culture. As we age, most of us reject these new objects of desire. We are no longer fooled by them since we have seen them in many other fashions before. These narratives examine expectations versus reality of life and the ways in which our expectations and desires change with the passage of time. I often change the voice within my poems to make my meditations both personal and fictional, but they all stem from the same experience of being a woman in the 21st century and changing in the public eye. Keywords: Early Childhood & Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Poetry, Poems, Women, Perception, Culture, Social Media, Aging, Love, Expectations
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Exploring the boundaries: performance art as a pedagogical tool in K-12 educationThroughout history, the world of visual arts consistently changes and expands in response to current events. As the spectrum of the arts changes, curriculum must change alongside them to encourage and foster student understanding of contemporary art and its cultural significance. Performance art, a genre of contemporary art, consists of artworks that involve action, demonstrations, and/or live exhibitions. While the concept of performance art has been used by artists for ages, the ways performers interact with audiences and the array of methods that may count as performance have advanced the genre greatly in modern times. Introducing performance art in a K-12 educational setting will provide an opportunity for educators to convey themes of collaboration, innovation, spontaneity, and creative expression. Contemporary art thrives on the idea that there are limitless modalities and spaces in which to display art. Encouraging students’ understanding of performance art is key in helping them embrace these ideals and expand their individual perceptions of what may count as art, especially as performance serves as a vehicle for art that doesn’t require proficiency in fine art skills. This paper examines the ways in which performance art can be realistically introduced into class curricula. Incorporating evidence from contemporary art research, educational policies, and personal correspondence, this study exhibits that performance art is an accessible and inclusive pedagogical tool in K-12 education. Key Words: Art education; performance art; contemporary art; educational pedagogy; curriculum; mentor artist
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Is vocal psychotherapy going to change my mind: a heuristic, self inquiryThis study explores the impact of vocal psychotherapy on self-perception and selfexpression through heuristic self-inquiry. Using reflexive journals, the author examines themes such as perseverance, self-worth, and self-expression, demonstrating how vocal techniques like vocal holding and free associative singing promote emotional release and deeper selfunderstanding. The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of vocal psychotherapy to enhance self-esteem, emotional regulation, and authenticity. The study underscores the value of self-experience for therapists and suggests future research on the holistic benefits of singing and its role in music therapy education. Keywords: Vocal Psychotherapy, Self-Perception, Self-Expression, Reflexive Journals, Themes, Understanding, Music Therapy, Emotional Regulation, Self-Esteem, Authenticity.
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The living: MFA Thesis - SculptureIf my installation The Living vibrates within the unified field with its own energy, the main question it poses is "What is consciousness?". The phrase resonates at the beginning of the soundscape of AstroFeminist Manifesto informed by ecofeminist theory, and my life long study of various esoteric practices.
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Lossy compression with implicit neural representations utilizing chroma subsamplingLossy compression is the process in which the file size of information is reduced while retaining the overall fidelity of the information. It is utilized to reduce the amount of data for storage and transmission. For specifically lossy image compression, lots of data can be removed while keeping the image nearly identical due to the fact that the human visual system is inexact. Lossy image compression algorithms such as the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG) are utilized to accomplish this goal. Recently, a new form of signal representation has been proposed known as the Implicit Neural Representation (INR). Instead of explicitly defining the compression process, a multilayer perceptron (MLP) network learns to memorize a signal storing the information as parameters of a MLP as opposed to the image itself. While INRs have shown promise, they have yet to become viable compression methods because traditional methods are faster and more accurate. Many methods have been utilized to further improve the compression ratio of Implicit Neural Representations such as quantization and entropy coding. In this thesis, we explore an image processing technique known as Chroma Subsampling to improve the compression quality of INRs. This method takes advantage of the fact that the human visual system is more susceptible to details in brightness rather than details in colors. Additionally, we will also introduce various architectures and techniques to train a chroma subsampled image into an INR more effectively.
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Microaggressions in music therapy internships: a survey studyA gap in the literature appears to exist between the internship experiences for interns that might belong to minority groups based on sex assigned at birth, gender identity, racism, ableism, and classism versus those that identify as White, cisgender, able-bodied, financially privileged, and male. The purpose of this survey study was to examine the incidence of microaggressions, including sexism, cisgenderism, classism, racism, and ableism, experienced by music therapy interns. Results suggested that race-related microaggressions are prevalent for BIPOC interns throughout their internship experience, also for gender non-conforming interns, bisexual, pansexual, lesbian, and gay interns, interns with emotional and/or physical disabilities, and interns belonging to lower and middle-lower socio-economic class. Further, results suggest that microaggressions resulted in significant consequences for bisexual and pansexual interns, interns who self-identified as having emotional disabilities, and interns belonging to the lower and middle-lower socio-economic class. Keywords: microaggressions, internships, minority, majority, dominant
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Music-based interventions for post-stroke patients with aphasia: a rapid reviewAphasia is a common and debilitating consequence of stroke, significantly affecting one's communication and quality of life. Music-based interventions (MBis) have gained attention as potential therapeutic tools for post-stroke aphasia. This rapid review aims to synthesize the current evidence regarding the effectiveness of music-based interventions in the rehabilitation of post-stroke patients with aphasia. A rapid review of the literature was conducted including studies that examined the use of music-based interventions for aphasia in post-stroke patients. Eligible studies included post-stroke patients with aphasia, peer-reviewed articles, quantitative studies, and studies that were published in English within the last 10 years. The focus was on interventions that targeted speech, language, and communication outcomes, with a particular emphasis on music-based interventions. A total of 17 studies were included in this review. The findings suggest that music-based interventions, particularly the use of MIT, can lead to improvements in speech production, prosody, and overall communication skills for individuals with aphasia. The evidence supports the potential of music-based interventions as a therapy that would be beneficial for stroke patients with aphasia. Music-based interventions show promise as an adjunct to conventional aphasia therapies for post-stroke patients, with moderate to strong effects observed in communication recovery.
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Threading the needle: tatreez, trade, tales and talk in anglophonic, women's literature of the Arab diasporaPenelope weaving by day and unweaving by night Laertes' death shroud, Arachne's metamorphosis as punishment for depicting the cruelty of the gods in thread, the cloak embroidered with stories of famous lovers stolen from a Sultan's unnamed daughter and gifted to Emare- the metaphor of embroidery or weaving in storytelling overcomes borders to permeate our transnational memories and cultural milieus. Foundational texts of both Western and global canons time and again tum to weaving as metaphor; from the ancients like Athena, the Moirai, or Neith who- in some myths- is credited as the weaver (and frequent reweaver) of the world, literature and narratives have been explored via the development of a rich tapestry of not only women, but men1 who weave and are woven into global narrative memory. Contemporary works such as Carmen Maria Machado 's "The Husband Stitch," R.B. Lemberg's The Four Profound Weaves, and Salman Rushdie's Shame, to name just a few, remind us of the central and formative connection between the material craft of embroidery and the transcendental art of storytelling.
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Music-based stress management for college music students: research protocolThe purpose of this paper is to outline a research protocol to determine the effectiveness of engaging with a YouTube channel in reducing the perceived stress of college music students. Due to the demanding nature of their degree, music students are at risk for depression, anxiety and burnout. The channel will offer accessible, and research based guided music experiences in order to mitigate academic stress while offering students the opportunity to reflect and understand their emotional responses to stress. This mixed method study will be evaluated by the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing 14 item scale (WEMWBS). As this is a research protocol no data is presently recorded. Once concluded, this research offers a way to assess the potential of online music experiences to supporting the mental health and well-being of college music students. Key Words: Student Stress, Self-care practices, Music majors, Depression, Anxiety, Learning burnout, Mental well-being, Music Based Experiences, Mindfulness.
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Entropy, accretion, and l’informe: MFA Thesis - Painting & DrawingIn my paper, I will explore how entropy and accretion serve as catalysts in contemporary painting through Georges Bataille’s concept of l’informe (the formless), first published in 1929 in the Surrealist journal Documents, and further developed by Rosalind E. Krauss and Yve-Alain Bois in the 1990s. While entropy—the inevitable dissolution of matter into disorder—and accretion—the gradual accumulation of matter into sedimentary layers—seem antithetical, I will argue that their tension, in relation to l’informe, has played a generative role in art since the birth of Modernism and continues to reverberate in artmaking today. How can painting function both as an indexical mark and as an expressive collaboration with the forces that shape our world and beyond? What slippages, or gaps, remain to be explored by engaging with these phenomena in painting today? Over the course of a month-long residency in Northern Italy, I discovered an unexpected link: dust, as a pervasive, unifying accumulation, and its specific effects on the paintings I made there.
