Health and Human Services News

Faculty research on display

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Research took the spotlight at Missouri State University on April 11. 

The Faculty Center for Teaching and Learning hosted its first-ever Spring Scholarship Summit in Meyer Library. Faculty members from various disciplines showcased their latest research and scholarly projects through interactive poster presentations.  

Over 20 presenters participated with 14 posters displayed. Attendees got to meet the presenters, explore new research ideas and engage in meaningful conversations.  

Ten faculty members from McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) took part in the Spring Scholarship Summit. Five led poster presentations while the rest contributed as interdisciplinary co-authors. 

The summit underscored Missouri State’s continued commitment to teaching excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Promoting trauma-informed care 

From the School of Nursing, Dr. Diane Smith, assistant professor, collaborated with Dr. Cindi Aurentz, assistant professor, and Dr. Melissa Penkalski, associate professor and graduate program director.

From left to right: Drs. Cindi Aurentz, Melissa Penkalski and Diane Smith.
From left to right: Drs. Cindi Aurentz, Melissa Penkalski and Diane Smith.

Together, they presented “Trauma-Informed Education for Nursing Faculty: Caring for the Next Generation of Nurses.”    

The team began the project in 2021, aiming to help faculty use trauma-informed care training to better support students both in classrooms and clinical settings.

“We welcome every opportunity to share the principles of trauma-informed care, as this is a topic we all care deeply about,” Smith said. “We hope these practices are integrated.” 

Fostering interprofessional collaboration 

From left to right- Natalie Allen, Bonnie Slavych, Wendy Jackson, and Traci Garrison.
From left to right: Natalie Allen, Dr. Bonnie Slavych, Wendy Jackson and Dr. Traci Garrison.

Registered dietitian Natalie Allen is a clinical associate professor of nutrition and dietetics. She presented “Emphasizing Interprofessional Education Through a Virtual Case Study Connecting Healthcare Students” alongside her colleagues as part of ongoing interprofessional collaboration. 

Allen and three other faculty members from multiple disciplines worked together on this project. They included: Dr. Traci Garrison, clinical associate professor in the School of Health Care Professions; Wendy Jackson, clinical assistant professor in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences; and Dr. Bonnie Slavych, assistant professor in communication sciences and disorders.

Their poster explored how virtual case studies can strengthen interprofessional collaboration in health care education.  

The study brought together students from different majors to build teamwork, communication and decision-making skills in an online setting. It also helped them understand each other’s roles and practice collaborative contribution to patient-centered care in real-world environments. 

“The summit was a great opportunity to promote interprofessional collaboration and show the value of connecting different disciplines,” Allen said. “This project helped all of our students gain the skills and confidence they need before stepping into real-world practice.” 

Focusing on resilience 

Dr. Debbie Horine, assistant professor in the School of Nursing, presented “Introducing Resilience to Pre-Licensure Nursing Students to Recognize and Address Lateral Violence.”

From left to right- Cindi Aurentz, Kristen Thompson, Sara Wilson, and Diane Smith.
From left to right: Drs. Cindi Aurentz, Kristen Thompson, Sara Wilson and Diane Smith.

Her project focused on preparing nursing students to recognize workplace challenges and strengthen emotional resilience early in their careers. 

“While we can’t eliminate lateral violence, we can prepare students to recognize it, build resilience and manage stress,” Horine said. 

Dr. Sara Wilson and Dr. Kristen Thompson, both assistant professors in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, co-presented two posters: 

  • “The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Higher Education” 
  • “Combating Loneliness Through Intergenerational Living Communities” 

The first study examined how early trauma affects college students’ academic performance and mental health. The second study focused more broadly on community well-being, exploring how intergenerational housing can reduce isolation and foster connection. 

Together, the research underscores the importance of trauma-informed practices and community-based solutions that strengthen resilience and belonging. 

“I’m driven to explore how we can support positive outcomes right here on our campus and in our communities,” Wilson said. 

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Turning passion into action

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For many students, advocacy may seem distant and reserved for professionals, but Missouri State University students are learning to make their voices heard — in class and at the state Capitol. 

Two recent events gave social work and athletic training students a chance to engage with Missouri’s legislative process.  

A big day for social work students 

Social work students and faculty members at the Capitol
Social work students and faculty members at the Capitol.

On March 4, around 50 social work students attended the Behavioral Health Professions Rally at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. During the event, they heard inspiring messages from Rep. Aaron Crossley and Rep. Melanie Stinnett.

Students got to sit in both the House and Senate sessions. They watched lawmakers in action during the legislative process.   

“We want students to see that their voice matters,” said Salina Bollinger, clinical assistant professor in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences. “We want them to leave knowing they can make a difference.” 

Besides Bollinger, three other faculty members, Natalie Curry, Stacy Johnson and Heather Eckhart  supported the students at the Capitol.   

The faculty encouraged students to choose issues they care about, such as mental health and child safety. Since many of the students are involved in practicum placements, they understand the real needs of the people they serve. 

“This was my third time attending and each year brings something new and powerful,” said Victoria Kleene, a social work graduate student. “It’s inspiring to see advocacy in action and understand how our classroom learning can drive real policy change.” 

For Kersten Shuler, also a social work graduate student, asking questions and hearing directly from lawmakers helped her better understand how the legislative process really works. 

“The experience was empowering, and it sparked a deeper interest in advocacy,” she said. 

A surprise moment on the Senate floor

Senator Maggie Nurrenbern (left) and Ketsia John (right)
Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern (left) and Ketsia John (right).

One special moment stood out during the visit. Sen. Maggie Nurrenbern introduced Ketsia John, a Bachelor of Social Work student and Social Work Club president, to the Senate. 

The moment was even more meaningful because of their past connection. Nurrenbern was once John’s high school teacher in Kansas City.  

The recognition reminded everyone in the room that advocacy often begins with relationships and a strong sense of community. 

Athletic training students get their turn 

On March 5, 15 Master of Athletic Training students participated in the advocacy day for health care-related issues.  

Dr. W. David Carr, professor in the School of Health Care Professions, and Dr. Michael Hudson, professor in sports medicine and athletic training, led this event. Both encouraged students to focus on relationship building rather than pushing for new legislation.  

“This visit was about gratitude and connection with lawmakers who support our profession,” said Carr. “We wanted students to see how advocacy works, not just by asking for change, but by showing appreciation.” 

The group also had the opportunity to speak with university President Dr. Richard Biff Williams, who was at the Capitol for the university and to show support for athletic training (he is an athletic trainer). 

Students met with six lawmakers who supported bills related to school safety and athletic health. They thanked each legislator and handed them a “Friend of Athletic Training” certificate in appreciation. 

“Talking to legislators helped me see how policies directly impact what we do,” said graduate student Kate Forward. “It reminded me we’re not just practitioners; we’re part of the larger conversation in our field.” 

Why advocacy matters

To prepare for the Capitol visit, social work students joined online sessions with National Association of Social Workers resources. Athletic training students received guidance in class and reviewed materials from the Missouri Athletic Trainer’s Association.  

“This experience helps students overcome fear and step into advocacy with confidence,” said Bollinger. “It helps them see that advocacy is part of their professional responsibility.” 

Both programs plan to continue these annual advocacy events for students to find their voice and lead change. 

“Students gain more than knowledge; they gain courage,” Carr said. “This is how leadership begins.” 

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Faculty spotlight: Yvonne Callahan and Dr. Caitlin Masterson

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Our featured McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) faculty members are Yvonne Callahan, clinical assistant professor in the School of Nursing, and Dr. Caitlin Masterson, assistant professor in the School of Health Care Professions. 

Both bring a wealth of experience and a passion for education, shaping the next generation of health care professionals. Let’s get to know them better. 

Where are you originally from? 

Callahan: I grew up in a small town south of Santa Fe and east of Albuquerque, New Mexico. 

Masterson: I was born in Mississippi but grew up right here in Springfield, Missouri. 

Yvonne Callahan
Yvonne Callahan

What brought you to Missouri State University and how long have you been here? 

Callahan: After relocating to Missouri in 2013, I set a goal to earn a master’s in nursing and become a nurse educator. I joined MSU as an adjunct clinical instructor in spring 2021, transitioned to a full-time role in fall 2023 and became a course instructor in fall 2024.  

Masterson: My husband and I both have family here and wanted to be close by. I also was drawn to the unique opportunities for collaboration and teaching at MSU. I’ve been here since 2021. 

Where did you work prior to Missouri State? 

Callahan: I began my nursing career at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, working on a Medical-Surgical floor before moving to the Intensive Care Unit. Oncology became my primary focus, particularly in the Specialty Infusion Unit, where I administered immune therapies and targeted biologics. 

Masterson: After earning my PhD, I worked at Radford University in Virginia before moving to the University of Central Arkansas. When I moved back to Springfield, I became a biostatistician for a medical research company, a role I continue to hold while also working at MSU.

Can you share your academic journey? 

Callahan: I earned my undergraduate degree in English Literature and taught English as a Second Language in Bucharest, Romania. However, eventually I felt passionate about nursing education. Then, I completed my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Denver College of Nursing and Southwest Baptist University. I’m currently working on my Doctor of Nursing Practice at Missouri State. 

Masterson: I pursued my athletic dreams on a track scholarship at the University of Arkansas-Little Rock. My junior year, I switched from pre-med to psychology in the halfway considering better work life balance. I earned my Master of Science in Experimental Psychology from Missouri State then my PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience with a specialization in quantitative studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.  

What inspired you to pursue a career in health care and higher education? 

Callahan: I’ve always loved science and learning about the human body. My aunt and great-aunt are both nurses and hearing their inspiring stories sparked my passion for health care and teaching. 

Masterson: I started pre-med but found my passion in neuroscience, research and statistics. Working in higher education is the cherry on top as I get to share that passion and show students that statistics isn’t so scary after all! 

Are there any trends or advancements in nursing or health care that you find particularly exciting?

Dr. Caitlin Masterson
Dr. Caitlin Masterson

Callahan I’m excited about the growing field of cardio-oncology, which addresses the cardiac effects of cancer treatments. As a member of the International Cardio-Oncology Society’s nursing advocacy group, I work to advance education and implement updated guidelines to improve nursing practices in this area. 

Masterson: I’m excited about AI’s growing impact on health care, revolutionizing research and data analysis. It uncovers patterns traditional methods might miss, which helps to make decision-making more precise and efficient. The intersection of real-time data, advanced statistics and technology holds incredible potential to improve population health. 

What do you enjoy most about your job and working at Missouri State?

Callahan: I’m an educator at heart. I love sharing about the nursing profession and all the different ways a nurse can make a difference in the community.

Masterson: I love the variety my job offers, from teaching research and statistics to collaborating with faculty and students through RStats consults. Exploring research beyond my field keeps my courses dynamic and I genuinely enjoy designing studies and analyzing data. Having grown up here, working at MSU feels like coming home. 

What’s your teaching philosophy and how do you engage students in the classroom?

Callahan: My teaching philosophy is rooted in leading by example, hands-on learning and creativity to build practical nursing skills. As president of our local Oncology Nurses Society chapter, I encourage students to join professional groups, attend advocacy events and engage in nursing conferences. 

Masterson: My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a collaborative, engaging learning environment. I emphasize real-world applications, clear and structured content and practical examples that make complex concepts accessible. My goal is to spark curiosity and build student confidence beyond the classroom. 

What are your favorite activities to enjoy during the spring season? 

Callahan: I enjoy hiking in local trails and exploring festivals like Artsfest and the Cherry Blossom Kite and Piñata Festival. I also love pizza nights at Millsap Farms, especially their New Mexico-style horno ovens. 

Masterson: I love getting coffee and going on walks with my husband at Sequiota Park while our 3-year-old rides his bike. I also spend a lot of time at Springfield Rugby matches! 

What’s something about you that might surprise people? 

Callahan: I never expected my passion for cardio-oncology to lead me to a national stage. This April, I’ll speak at the Oncology Nurses Society 50th Congress — not in a breakout session, but as a main session speaker! 

Masterson: I learned to kneeboard and waterski before I could ride a bike, thanks to my family’s love for water sports! That passion led me to teach waterski, wakeboard, kneeboard, barefoot and surf lessons in Branson for five years. 

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Faculty spotlight: Crystal Powell and Stacy Johnson

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Our featured McQueary College of Health and Human Services (MCHHS) faculty members are Crystal Powell, assistant professor in the School of Health Care Professions, and Stacy Johnson, clinical instructor in the School of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences.

Let’s find out more about them.

Where are you originally from?

Powell: Savannah, Missouri.

Johnson: I’m originally from Mountain Home, Arkansas, a charming town about a two-hour drive from Springfield.

What brought you to Missouri State University and how long have you been here?

Crystal Powell
Crystal Powell

Powell: I graduated from Missouri State’s physician assistant (PA) program in 2005 and practiced clinically in the Springfield area for many years. During that time, I served as a clinical preceptor for PA students, which sparked my interest in teaching. That spark eventually led me back to Missouri State, where I now have the privilege of teaching in the same program that shaped my career. Since joining the physician assistant studies (PAS) faculty in 2023, I’ve truly enjoyed my time here — it feels like coming home!

Johnson: This is my second year as a faculty member at Missouri State. Joining Missouri State has been a dream of mine because I love mentoring students and helping them understand the transformative impact social workers can have in the field.

What’s your favorite part about working at Missouri State so far?

Powell: My favorite part has been the students. Their energy and passion for learning is truly inspiring — and contagious! They make every day unique and fulfilling and I feel incredibly fortunate to work with such a remarkable group of individuals.

Johnson: What I enjoy most about working at Missouri State is the opportunity to collaborate with professionals from diverse disciplines. The university fosters a supportive culture that emphasizes a healthy work-life balance, which I truly value.

What’s your educational background?

Powell: I received my Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Missouri State in 2005 and my Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University in 2002. in 2002.

Johnson: I’m proud to be an alum of Missouri State, where I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work.

Why did you choose your career path?

Stacy Johnson
Stacy Johnson

Powell: I became a PA because of my love of science, my love of people and my desire to help others. A PA career allowed me to combine all these interests, and I truly enjoyed my time in clinical practice. Now that I’m here at Missouri State, I have the privilege of guiding PA students as they grow into compassionate and skilled professionals — an experience that’s just as rewarding.

Johnson: I chose social work because I saw first-hand the gaps individuals faced in receiving health services and support. My grandmother’s experiences particularly shaped my perspective, as I witnessed the challenges she faced in accessing the care she needed. Seeing her struggle, and the impact it had on our family, reinforced my belief in the need for better advocacy, support systems and access to services. I’ve always been intrinsically motivated to help people, but I also recognize that by helping others, I find a sense of purpose in myself. Social work allows me to bridge those gaps while fulfilling my own drive to make a meaningful difference.

Where did you work prior to Missouri State?

Powell: Before joining Missouri State, I spent about one and a half years working with Drury University’s PA program. Prior to Drury, I practiced clinically in pediatrics and family medicine for about 17 years.

Johnson: I bring an eclectic professional background to my role, having worked in the medical field, as a therapist specializing in school-aged children and most recently, as a school social worker.

What do you do in your role at the university?

Powell: I’m an instructor in a variety of PAS courses including clinical assessment, clinical medicine, clinical problem solving and procedures. I also serve as the director of assessment for our program.

Johnson: I serve as an instructor for both the Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work programs. I also work as an advisor and am the faculty advisor for the BSW Social Work Club.

What’s your favorite thing about the winter season?

Powell: I’m not a huge fan of winter, so to me, the best part of this season is knowing that spring is just around the corner.

Johnson: While I typically prefer spring and summer, I treasure the magic of the winter season, especially with my young children. Watching their excitement makes the season truly special. I also enjoy baking, and winter always feels like the perfect time to whip up something delicious.

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