Larkin University concluded its 2025 Summer Research Program (LUSRP) on August 1st with a vibrant Mini-Symposium, celebrating the hard work and achievements of 21 emerging researchers from across Florida and beyond.
Students from institutions including Miami-Dade College, Florida International University, Barry University, Florida A&M University, Tennessee State University, Broward College, Franklin Academy, Mater Academy Cutler Bay, Cypress Bay High School, Florida Virtual High School, and G. Holmes Braddock Senior High School showcased their summer research projects through engaging flash oral and poster presentations.
The program provided participants with hands-on research experience, skill-building workshops and seminars, and mentorship under the guidance of expert faculty and researchers. The Mini-Symposium was a proud culmination of weeks of curiosity, collaboration, and scientific discovery.
“Congratulations to all students and mentors for their hard work, dedication, and passion for research,” said Dr. Aarajana Shrestha, LUSRP Program Coordinator. “Their accomplishments were truly impressive, and their enthusiasm was contagious.”
Outstanding Research Presentations Recognized
A highlight of the event was the announcement of the Best Presentation Awards, honoring top-performing students:
- 1st Place: Stephanie Bennita Clervil Project: “The Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Preventive Health Behavior” Mentor: Dr. Priscilla Ryder
- 2nd Place: Sebastian Blanco Project: “Design of Small-Molecule NSD2 Inhibitors: Emerging Chemotypes and Structure–Activity Trends” Mentor: Dr. Taraman Kadayat
- 3rd Place: Saroiini Deb Project: “Opioid Mortality and Demographic Disparities in the United States” Mentor: Dr. Prashant Sakharkar
Mentorship at the Core
The heart of LUSRP lies in its dedicated mentors who invest time, expertise, and passion to guide students in their research journey. We extend our deepest gratitude to:
Dr. Thomas A. Edwards, Dr. Prashant Sakharkar, Dr. Kristal Potter, Dr. Priscilla Ryder, Dr. Rahul Nohria, Dr. Dean L. Arneson, Dr. Bernard Ashby, Dr. Arun Kotha, Dr. Umar-Farouk Mamani, Dr. Sukhwinder Lakhman, and Dr. Taraman Kadayat.
Keynote, Distinguished Guests and Supporter
This year’s keynote address in the LUSRP Mini-Symposium was delivered by Dr. Rudolph Moise, who shared a powerful personal story of resilience, emphasizing the importance of education, perseverance, and commitment to research. His words inspired students to pursue their scientific passions with purpose.
Larkin University was also honored by the presence of Dr. Zuzana Zajickova from Barry University, who offered invaluable support during the event, and Dr. Pablo Sacasa and his team from Miami-Dade College, whose partnership was instrumental in the success of LUSRP 2025.
A Collective Effort
LUSRP 2025 thrived thanks to the collective support from Larkin’s leadership and academic community, including:
- Dean Dr. Subrata Deb – College of Pharmacy
- Dean Dr. Bart Whitehead – College of Biomedical Sciences
- Dean Ms. Pascale Gehy – Physician Assistant Program
- Dean Dr. Paula M. Gregory – College of Osteopathic Medicine
The program also featured Every Friday professional development sessions, which included 10 different research seminars, workshops, and career panel discussions led by:
Dr. Rudi H. Ettrich, Dr. Taraman Kadayat, Dr. Kristal Potter, Dr. Bernard Ashby, Dr. Idelxy Perez, Dr. Sandeep Sheth, Dr. Rahul Nohria, Dr. Thomas A. Edwards, Dr. Aarajana Shrestha, Dr. Anna Dellarole, and Dr. Andrea Murzello.
Behind the scenes, countless staff members contributed their time and effort to ensure the smooth running of the program. Their support was essential to creating a welcoming and professional environment for student researchers.
Advancing Knowledge Through Mentorship
The Larkin University Summer Research Program continues to be a launching pad for young scholars, offering mentorship, research training, and a platform to explore future careers in biomedical science and healthcare.
As we reflect on a successful 2025 program, we look forward to seeing these bright students carry their experience forward—and make their mark on the world through science.
Here’s to advancing knowledge and empowering students through research!
“At Larkin University, we believe that research is not only about generating knowledge — it’s about transformation and shaping the future of the biomedical and health professions. The LUSRP 2025 cohort embodies the spirit of curiosity, courage, and collaboration that defines impactful science. These students are not just learning to ask meaningful questions — they are learning to lead with purpose. Through mentorship and discovery, they are building the foundation for a healthier, more innovative tomorrow, and we are proud to support their journey.”
— Dr. Rudi H. Ettrich, President, Larkin University
