August 28, 2024

The Teagle Civic Impact Award, funded by Pennoni’s prestigious Teagle grant, was created this year to recognize STAR Scholars for groundbreaking research that significantly contributes to the public good. From a competitive pool of 20 applicants, two exemplary recipients were selected.

Dr. Kevin Egan, director of Academic Programs congratulated Caitlin Betson and Chan Chung at the STAR Scholars Program Quick Pitch competition finals in August, for their impactful contributions to research with benefits for the public good.

Caitlin, psychology ’28, was awarded for her innovative research combining literature review and clinical observation to examine reentry models for justice-involved individuals. With a minor in law, Caitlin’s work, focusing on recidivism through a forensic psychology lens, highlighted the importance of supportive therapeutic approaches in fostering better outcomes for both individuals and communities.

The second awardee, Chan, biological sciences ’27, also a minor in law, conducted research on the neurochemical changes in the brain due to alcohol addiction. His work is pivotal in reframing addiction from a moral failing to a neurological issue, with far-reaching implications for policy and public health approaches to addiction treatment.