KU Medical Center Students Present Research at Kansas Capitol | 2026 Research Days
The quiet halls of the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka recently buzzed with a different kind of energy – not the usual legislative debate, but the focused presentations of young researchers from across the state. Students from the University of Kansas Medical Center (KU Medical Center) joined their peers from other Kansas institutions for the annual Undergraduate and Graduate Research Days at the Capitol, a unique opportunity to showcase their work directly to policymakers and the public. This isn’t just an academic exercise; it’s a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact, particularly within Kansas.
The Importance of Direct Engagement
The event, as highlighted by Dr. Becky Christian, director of KU School of Nursing’s Ph.D. Program, is significant because it allows students to translate complex research into accessible language for those who shape health policy. “Research evidence is translated into practice by providing the rationale for developing health policy and legislation that are essential to improving the lives of the people across the state of Kansas,” Dr. Christian explained. This direct engagement is crucial, as it ensures that legislative decisions are informed by the latest scientific findings. The Kansas Board of Regents, a key governing body for higher education in the state, actively participates in these events, demonstrating their commitment to fostering a research-driven environment.
Beyond influencing policy, these research days offer invaluable professional development for the students themselves. Megan Turner, a Ph.D. Student at KU School of Nursing, emphasized the importance of honing presentation skills. “Communicating my research to others outside of the discipline of nursing, the public and legislators made me think about my research in new ways,” she noted. This ability to articulate complex ideas to diverse audiences is a skill that will serve these future healthcare professionals well throughout their careers.
Spotlight on KU Medical Center Research
The research presented by KU Medical Center students covered a wide range of critical health issues. Sabine Jean-Philippe, a respiratory care student from the School of Health Professions, focused on a particularly pressing concern: “Improving Access to Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Rural Communities.” Her work highlights the disparities in healthcare access faced by rural populations, a challenge that resonates deeply within Kansas, where vast stretches of land are sparsely populated. This research is particularly relevant given the state’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare outcomes in underserved areas.
Undergraduate Research Highlights
KU School of Nursing sent a contingent of six Bachelor of Science in Nursing honors students to the Kansas Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol on February 26, 2026. Ryann Buster and Megan Lee, mentored by Dr. Kristine Williams, explored “Public Perceptions of Elderspeak: Analysis of New York Times Article Comments,” shedding light on the subtle ways ageism can manifest in everyday language. Darby Jester, with Dr. Becky Christian as her mentor, conducted a comparative case study on adolescents with cystic fibrosis and complex chronic conditions. Madison Solis, Max Godfrey, and Jasmeet Kaur, guided by Dr. Karen Weis, investigated “Barriers to Long-Term Oxygen Therapy Requirements for Rural Pediatric Patients,” further emphasizing the challenges of providing specialized care in rural settings.
Graduate Research Innovations
The Capitol Graduate Research Summit on March 24, 2026, showcased the advanced research being conducted by doctoral students at KU Medical Center. Megan Turner, mentored by Dr. Amanda Emerson, presented a scoping review of multiple-patient simulations in pre-licensure nursing programs, exploring innovative teaching methods to enhance clinical preparedness. Students from KU School of Medicine similarly contributed significantly. Kennedy Morey assessed the impact of a vascular surgery simulation on medical student knowledge and perceptions, while Dakota Okwuone delved into the molecular pathways of cancer metastasis. Perhaps the most celebrated presentation came from Lana Heslop, a Ph.D. Candidate who won best overall performance for her research on how the ketogenic diet can alleviate pain by altering neuronal function.
Connecting Research to Real-World Solutions in Topeka
Given my background in public health and healthcare access, and considering the focus on rural health disparities presented by KU Medical Center students, if these issues resonate with you here in Topeka, or anywhere in Shawnee County, here are three types of local professionals Try to consider consulting:
- Healthcare Navigators
- These professionals specialize in helping individuals understand and access healthcare services, particularly those covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act. Look for navigators certified by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, ensuring they have a thorough understanding of state-specific programs and resources.
- Rural Healthcare Advocates
- Organizations and individuals dedicated to improving healthcare access in rural communities. They often work with local hospitals, clinics, and community organizations to address specific challenges, such as transportation barriers or workforce shortages. Seek out advocates with a proven track record of successful initiatives in Kansas.
- Geriatric Care Managers
- As the research on “Elderspeak” demonstrates, the needs of the aging population are unique. Geriatric care managers can provide comprehensive assessments and care plans for older adults, coordinating medical, social, and emotional support services. Prioritize managers with certification from the National Association of Professional Care Managers.
Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated healthcare experts in the Topeka area today.