Psychology Student Receives Coveted Research Award
Campus News

Alexis CheathamFranklin College senior psychology student Alexis Cheatham was one of four students from across the country to receive a research award from the Psychology Division of the Council on Undergraduate Research. The recipients are undergraduate students conducting original psychological research, who receive awards of up to $500 per project to assist in covering supplies, expenses, or presentation-related costs.

Cheatham, the daughter of Jill English of Indianapolis and Riley Cheatham of Fishers, worked directly with Franklin College Associate Professor of Psychology Ryan Rush, Ph.D., on the project.

“Dr. Rush helped me with many aspects of this project. We meet weekly to discuss the project and brainstorm ideas,” said Cheatham. The title of the research project is “How Comfortable Are You? The Effects of Social Dominance and Race Biases,” which delved into participants’ comfort levels when in the presence of a racial slur.

Cheatham has already had the opportunity to present her findings at the Midwestern Psychological Association in April, and looks forward to additional opportunities to share her research.

“Alexis is an outstanding student,” said Rush. “She’s worked incredibly hard on the development and execution of this timely project. Her dedication to research and issues of social action and justice will suit her well in her career as a social worker. The psychology department is excited to watch the next chapter of her life unfold.” 

Following graduation in May, Cheatham has been accepted into the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee where she will pursue a master’s degree in social work, then work toward her counselor’s license. She looks forward to working primarily with underrepresented populations, and also wants to volunteer at nonprofits that focus on policy change and social justice.

For more information, contact the Franklin College Office of Communications at (317) 738-8185.

 

POSTED May 12, 2021