Civil engineering graduate student Elsie Lappin will represent Georgia Southern at the state level in the inaugural University System of Georgia (USG) Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition.

Lappin was selected as the top candidate following the 2026 Eagle Fast Pitch event, a University-wide competition supported by 91Âţ»­app’s , Parker College of Business and student-led organization the Eagle Entrepreneurs.

“Georgia Southern plays a vital role in cultivating entrepreneurs by giving students the tools and confidence to turn ideas into action,” said Associate Vice President of Innovation Dominique Halaby, DPA. “From concept to execution, we’re preparing students not just for careers, but to lead, innovate and create meaningful impact.”

Lappin’s winning pitch, Echo Oracle, is a physics-informed AI tool for automated ultrasonic inspection and structural code-based pass/fail decisions.

“I chose this project because it addresses a critical challenge in infrastructure inspection by reducing subjectivity and improving efficiency in defect detection and evaluation,” Lappin said. “This work began during my undergraduate studies and has continued to develop through my graduate research in nondestructive testing and structural health monitoring.”

The pitch is a culmination of her passion for creating more reliable and accessible infrastructure assessment tools. She credits her mentor, Hossein Taheri, Ph.D., associate professor of manufacturing engineering, and director of the Laboratory for Advanced Nondestructive Testing and In-situ Evaluation (LANDTIE), with guiding her through the process.

By going on to the system-level contest, she now has the chance to earn a trophy, professional mentorship and $25,000 in cash prizes. The USG Innovation Competition is a two-day event taking place on April 6-7 at Kennesaw State University’s Marietta Campus.

“I’m looking forward to presenting alongside such a diverse group of student innovators and seeing how different disciplines approach problem-solving,” said Lappin. “It’s a unique opportunity to refine how I communicate a highly technical idea to a broader audience and to gain feedback that can help push the project further.”

ABOUT BUSINESS INNOVATION GROUP
The Business Innovation Group (BIG) at 91Âţ»­app works to build an ecosystem throughout the State of Georgia to help entrepreneurs create, incubate and accelerate their for-profit business enterprises. BIG works to facilitate access to university resources, to create opportunities for student experiential learning, and to foster an environment that supports a growth mindset throughout the state.

As a unit of the Office of Research at Georgia Southern, BIG is committed to developing and deploying new technological platforms, innovative programs, quality services and educational events to help meet the needs of area businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators seeking to expand business operations and/or launch new business enterprises, products and services. For more information explore the Georgia Southern Business Innovation Group.

91Âţ»­app hosted its annual Gratitude Gala to recognize key donors for their longtime support of institutional initiatives. The event was held March 27 at the JW Marriott Plant Riverside in Savannah, Georgia, where honorees were presented with awards.

The annual event recognizes alumni, partners and philanthropic leaders whose generosity continues to advance the University’s mission of preparing career-ready students, strengthening communities and driving economic impact across the region.

Georgia Southern President Kyle Marrero welcomed guests and highlighted the transformational role of donor support in the institution’s continued growth.

“The people in this room represent Georgia Southern’s most loyal alumni, friends, faculty, staff, corporations and foundations — those who have given $25,000 or more to the University,” Marrero said. “Because of supporters like you, more than $6 million in scholarships were awarded this year, and our momentum continues to grow across every area of impact.”

Marrero noted record-breaking milestones for the University, including enrollment, research activity and $1.167B in regional economic impact, as well as continued progress toward the institution’s ambitious “Together We Soar” campaign goal of $300 million by 2030.

The 2026 Gratitude Gala Award recipients are:

The President’s Ambassador Award: St. Joseph’s/Candler

Built on tradition and driven by progress, St. Joseph’s/Candler stands as a cornerstone of compassionate health care in Savannah. With roots dating back to 1804 for Candler Hospital and 1875 for St. Joseph’s Hospital, these institutions have long served communities across southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry, now reaching 33 counties with a commitment to exceptional care, patient empowerment and holistic well-being. Their enduring partnership with Georgia Southern reflects a shared vision for the future, preparing the next generation of health care professionals through hands-on learning and real-world experience. From clinical training opportunities to the state-of-the-art St. Joseph’s/Candler Nursing Suite, an 8,000-square-foot facility designed to mirror a hospital environment, this collaboration equips students with the confidence, skill and compassion needed to lead in health care. Through their generosity and dedication, St. Joseph’s/Candler is not only shaping students’ careers but also investing in the health and future of the entire region.

The President’s Innovator Award: The Leonard Bevill Family 

The Bevill family exemplifies what it means to be true champions of 91Âţ»­app. Leonard “Lenny” Bevill and his wife Sandra, along with their sons Josh and Andrew and daughters-in-law Jenna and Taylor — all proud Georgia Southern alumni — share a deep and enduring connection to the University. Through their generosity of time, talent and resources, they have made a meaningful impact, particularly in support of Eagle Athletics and student-athletes. Together, they have championed Georgia Southern through the Eagle Victory Plan — especially the Eagle Nation Fund — as well as capital projects, sport agency accounts and initiatives that expand opportunities for our student-athletes. But what makes the Bevill family’s support especially meaningful is the way they continue to give back — strengthening athletic programs and advancing initiatives like the Erk Russell Fund while helping elevate the entire Georgia Southern community. Leonard truly embodies what it means to be an innovator for Georgia Southern, and the Bevill family’s legacy reflects a spirit of dedication, leadership and gratitude. Georgia Southern sincerely appreciates the continued support of the Bevill family.

The President’s Visionary Award: Greg Parker

Greg Parker’s vision, leadership and generosity have made a profound and lasting impact on Georgia Southern, particularly within the Parker College of Business. From humble beginnings as a one-man operation in 1976, he transformed Parker’s Kitchen into a thriving company processing more than one million customers each week across 110 locations, redefining the convenience store industry through innovation and excellence. Yet his success is measured not only in business growth, but in his deep commitment to giving back, donating more than $30 million to support education, health care, childhood hunger initiatives and veterans throughout the region. 

In 2019, Parker made the largest gift in Georgia Southern’s history, transforming the College of Business into the Parker College of Business and creating scholarships, faculty support and expanded opportunities that continue to shape students’ futures. Beyond his philanthropy, Parker remains personally invested, sharing his time, insight and experience with students in meaningful ways. His belief in Georgia Southern, its people and its future reflects the true spirit of a visionary leader and dedicated partner. 

To learn more about the award recipients visit the Gratitude Gala web page here.

To learn more about Georgia Southern’s campaign, visit . 

Romanian lecturer Mihaela Udristioiu, Ph.D. has returned to 91Âţ»­app for her second time as a Fulbright research scholar fellow.

“I was always a curious child,” said Udristioiu. “I love questions. The answers we find help us better understand the beauty of nature and the laws that govern our universe.”

That curiosity is what encouraged the Romanian lecturer to apply for the Fulbright research scholar program to work on physics education and environmental science with 91Âţ»­app associate professor of physics Dragos Amarie, Ph.D. 

The two first met during a study abroad program in Romania in 2017, during the Science and Culture Study Abroad program. Amarie said the teaching style of Romanian universities was different from what he was used to.  

Udristioiu was especially interested in learning how university faculty in the U.S. engage with their students and create active learning environments.

“How students understand physics is very important to me,” Udristioiu said. “My American colleagues have shown me how much better teaching is when it is interactive and involves students.”

Things are a little different in Romanian universities, she says.  

“Romanian universities teach differently than how we do in the States,” Amarie said. “The lectures are formal, and you’re doomed if you miss a single one.”

“I prefer a more student-centered approach, especially when it comes to teaching difficult science courses,” he explained. “Classes should be interactive. Students should be encouraged to ask their professors questions. Having them engage and question what we teach, that’s how a student learns.”

Udristioiu, impressed by his teaching style, hoped to join Amarie in the States in 2020. COVID-19 had other plans. The study abroad program stopped, but their collaboration continued. Then, in 2022, she was awarded a Fulbright research scholar grant, joining Amarie in the classroom at Georgia Southern. 

“She did such a great job while she was here,” said Amarie. “The Fulbright Romania encouraged Dr. Udristioiu to submit a new application to strengthen the collaboration.” 

That’s why she applied for the Fulbright grant again. She’s back in the states now, working on a research project focused on air pollution monitoring, modelling, making predictions and forecasting. 

“Science crosses borders, and collaboration helps us open new doors to knowledge,” she said.

What can a handheld grip test reveal about military readiness? According to 91Âţ»­app researchers, it turns out quite a lot. 

It’s one of several tools 91Âţ»­app’s Tactical Athlete Initiative (TAI) is using in partnership with the University’s Army ROTC program to improve how cadets train.

Under the direction of Professor of Exercise Science Bridget Melton, Ed.D., and Associate Professor and Director of Tactical Performance Joseph Kardouni, Ph.D., DPT, and supported in part by a Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium (MTEC) grant, the initiative brings in researchers to enhance military training through fitness assessments. 

Cadets complete a series of physical tests – such as rowing and jumping – while wearing top-of-the-line monitoring equipment. Data is collected during these assessments and then analyzed by TAI researchers to provide individualized training enhancements for cadets.

Graduate coaching education student Spencer Boling is leading this effort as the first graduate assistant assigned to the TAI.

“It has been nothing short of special,” Boling said. “Being the first in this role means I am actively building this from the ground up, and there is a real responsibility that comes with that.”

Student Jacob Mullins supports the collaboration by helping calibrate the VO2 Master testing system – a mask that measures oxygen intake in real time and gives highly accurate data on aerobic capacity.

“It is fun to be a part of a team doing something meaningful like gathering data,” Mullins said. “It gave me a better understanding of performance testing and the importance of teamwork and preparation.”

One of the initiative’s biggest highlights was placing ninth at the Ranger Challenge, a regional military skills competition, a result of the work put in at the lab. 

“A top-10 finish is a genuine achievement and a direct reflection of the cadets’ commitment to physical preparation,” Boling said. “Watching a cadet hit a personal record in the weight room, seeing them pass their Army Fitness Test with flying colors, or simply noticing them develop healthier daily habits are all moments that remind me exactly why this work matters.”

For Boling, the initiative has been transformative both in and out of the lab. 

“This collaboration has changed the trajectory of my career,” Boling added. “I always thought I wanted to work in traditional sports, but after seeing the impact of training the tactical population, people who rely on fitness for life and service, I know this is where I belong.”

91Âţ»­app’s student-led media group, The George-Anne Media Group, recently earned recognition for excellence in design and reporting from The Georgia College Press Association (GCPA) and The College Media Association (CMA).

The group claimed nine total awards from the two organizations, which annually recognize excellence in student-led journalism and media organizations. 

The GCPA awarded The George-Anne, based on the Statesboro Campus, and The Inkwell, based on the Armstrong Campus, with first place for Newspaper Layout and Design Excellence. The Association is known across Georgia for upholding the industry standard of collegiate journalism, as well as connecting member colleges to student journalists across the state. 

The George-Anne also took home second place in General Photography Excellence, Best Newspaper website and Best News Article Based on Investigative Reporting. The Inkwell took second place for Best General News Article and Best Entertainment Story. 

The Inkwell earned an honorable mention for Best Newsletter at the CMA’s Apple Awards in New York City, New York. The Apple Awards highlight the best in student-produced journalism nationwide.

The Office of Student Activities (OSA) at 91Âţ»­app has received the Gold Award from the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) for some of its student programming for advancing student leadership and engagement. 

The Student and Organization Leadership Development (SOLD) Workshop Series received the Gold Award in the Fraternity and Sorority Life, Leadership, Student Activities, Student Union, and related category of the 2026 NASPA Excellence Awards. 

The SOLD Workshop Series is a free leadership development program designed for students to help cultivate the next generation of campus and community leaders. Offered during the fall and spring semesters, the series provides high-impact learning opportunities for students across all majors and classifications who want to strengthen their personal leadership skills, prepare for roles within student organizations, and contribute meaningfully to the University and broader community.

“The SOLD Workshop Series reflects the Division of Student Affairs and Georgia Southern’s commitment to developing career-ready leaders who will positively impact their communities,” said Memory Littles, director of OSA. “The program is aligned with the University’s SACSCOC Quality Enhancement Plan, the National Association of Colleges and Employers career readiness competencies, NASPA’s professional competencies and several other strategic priorities. We are honored that NASPA has recognized the work being done at Georgia Southern to empower students through leadership education and engagement.”

Championed by Littles and Cat Hoopaugh, associate director of OSA, the series is additionally supported by all of OSA’s team members, and connects faculty, staff, community members and Georgia Southern alumni to current students. 

The workshop series was selected for its outstanding impact on student leadership development and campus engagement. Since its pilot launch, the SOLD Workshop Series has educated tens of thousands of Georgia Southern students, building a strong culture of leadership and involvement across each of our campuses. Over the past five years alone, more than 15,500 students have participated in SOLD workshops, reflecting the program’s broad reach and sustained impact, said Hoopaugh.

As part of this recognition, Littles and Hoopaugh were invited to present the SOLD Workshop Series at the 2026 NASPA National Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, in March, where they shared the program’s model and impact with higher education professionals from across the globe.

The NASPA Excellence Awards represent one of the most respected recognitions in the field of Student Affairs, honoring innovative and high-impact programs that transform student experiences in higher education around the world. The national recognition from NASPA underscores OSA’s dedication to fostering student success through innovative programming and leadership education.

91Âţ»­app’s Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) Community Programs are buzzing this spring, with a lineup of community courses ranging from beekeeping and wine education to regional historical experiences. 

Through the Community Programs series, CPE offers a variety of courses, workshops and events designed to engage learners of all ages.

“Continuing and Professional Education exists to make Georgia Southern accessible to everyone, not just students pursuing a degree,” said Business and Marketing Manager Jamie Burke.

The six-week course will begin March 24 at 5:15 p.m. at the CPE Center. Designed for the enthusiast looking to start their own hive or better understand bees, the course will be led by expert Bobby Colson and include lessons on bee behavior and hive management to promote health, production and sustainability.

Wine enthusiasts can also get a taste of CPE offerings with . This exclusive event features wines from Poggio ai Laghi, a Tuscan winery known for its regional craftsmanship and dedication to traditional winemaking. Guests 21 and older will have the unique opportunity to taste a curated selection of wines guided by professional sommeliers traveling from Tuscany, offering firsthand insight into the vineyards, varietals and winemaking traditions of the region.

The sessions will be held at Savannah Technical Institute’s Culinary Institute April 9 and at the CPE Center in Statesboro April 10. 

“Experiences like this create a meaningful bridge between education and culture,” said CPE Director Deedee Southerlin, Ed.D. “Through our partnership with Poggio ai Laghi winery, guests have the opportunity to engage directly with the people and traditions behind the wines. It’s a unique way to connect our local community to the global village.”

Later in April, Professor Emeritus of History John K. Derden, Ph.D., will take history enthusiasts on a guided tour tracing Sherman’s March to the Sea through Emanuel, Jenkins and Burke counties. Starting at the Fulford Center Meeting Room on the East Georgia Campus, the tour offers rare access to historic roads, visiting authentic campsites, antebellum plantation sites and the legendary Camp Lawton. 

Additional programming this spring includes a behind-the-scenes look at the artistic process of stained glass through , as well as a workshop to design a one-of-a-kind accessory ready to wear to CPE’s Run for the Roses Gala and watch party May 2. 

“These types of programs open the door for community members to explore new interests while engaging with the University,” said Burke. “They are helping build a culture of lifelong learning across our area.”

for more information on CPE’s community programs.

A new partnership between 91Âţ»­app’s Division of Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) and Division of Facilities is empowering community members to handle small home repairs with confidence. 

The Handy Homeowner Workshop series is a community program designed for individuals interested in do-it-yourself style home maintenance projects. Though the course began as an idea for a power tools class, it quickly evolved. 

“It grew into a new series designed to help people feel capable and confident tackling projects in their own homes,” said Jamie Burke, business and marketing manager for CPE. 

Each session in the series focused on a different home improvement skill, giving participants practical experience with tools and techniques they can use right away. One participant noted they feel more confident in tasks such as changing a shower head.

Drawing on the expertise of University employees, CPE partnered with employees in the Division of Facilities to serve as instructors. 

“I enjoyed working with the participants of the class,” said Micah Boesche, a plumber in the Department of Mechanical Maintenance who served as an instructor for one of the series courses. “They were very receptive to what I was teaching and eager to learn something new.”

The most recent workshop took place at the Freedom’s Landing model apartment on the Statesboro Campus and centered on plumbing basics. During the session, participants learned how to use a closet auger, replace a shower head and perform proper water heater maintenance. Several attendees even stepped in to help replace a faucet, turning the session into a true learning-by-doing experience.

“I enjoyed how they were not afraid to get hands-on and jump right in,” Boesche said. “It was a pleasure, and I hope enough information was given so they will understand that plumbing isn’t scary and maybe give them the confidence to tackle small tasks around the house.”

This practical approach is what made the class especially successful. Instructors provided overviews of each task, and guided participants through hands-on practice while answering questions along the way. The environment was supportive and approachable, making it ideal for those with little to no prior experience who want to build confidence using basic tools.

Earlier sessions in the Handy Homeowner series covered how to use different power tools safely and effectively. With strong participation and positive feedback, future installments are already being planned to explore additional home improvement topics.

The Handy Homeowner workshops offer an accessible way to gain essential skills and practical knowledge. Details about future workshop sessions, which will cover topics like flooring installation, electrical work and yard maintenance, will be posted on CPE’s as they are available.

The Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics (IHLA) at 91Âţ»­app has opened a new Care Station in the lobby of the Dr. Mark and Tonya Spivey Public Library in Vidalia, Georgia. The Care Station is a health vending machine that aims to improve community health by increasing access to over-the-counter health products and at-home diagnostic tests. 

Current products include ibuprofen, diapers, children’s pain reliever, diabetes care, at-home testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and hand sanitizer, among other items. 

The Vidalia Care Station is the second to open under IHLA’s “Care Stations in Rural Georgia” initiative, with each machine designed to meet the specific health needs of the community it serves. Community feedback will guide future product choices. All Toombs County residents are encouraged to share anonymous input about what they would like to have available in the Care Station through an online feedback form at . This will ensure the Care Station continues to reflect the needs of the community.

“By understanding the unique needs of the community, we can offer customized health products and tests in easily accessible locations,” said IHLA project lead Jennifer Drey.

Using the Care Station is simple, and items are priced similarly to local retail stores. 

“Users tap the touchscreen and scroll through the available products,” explained Kathryn Stewart, IHLA business and finance coordinator. “If a user sees something they want to purchase, they may use a credit card to pay for items directly at the machine. For safety and security reasons, the Care Station does not accept cash payments.”

Confidentiality is a key feature of the Care Station. 

“These machines are easy to use, safe and completely private,” said Jill Johns, IHLA project manager. “Whether someone is purchasing pain relievers or STI tests, no one else will know. That confidentiality helps remove stigma, which is often a major barrier to accessing health products.”

The placement of the second Care Station in Vidalia, builds on IHLA’s earlier work performed through the Community Health Resource Project, which identified a need for additional health resources across rural counties.. 

“During our previous work with Toombs County, we found strong support from local stakeholders — particularly the library,” said Drey. “Vidalia is representative of the communities where we hope to expand this program.”

A public ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held March 4, beginning at 1 p.m., with remarks at 1:15 p.m. 

“These first two IHLA-sponsored Care Stations serve as a proof-of-concept,” Drey added. “Rural communities often face greater challenges than metropolitan areas in terms of accessing essential health supplies and testing. We hope this pilot demonstrates a scalable model that can be expanded to other rural communities across Georgia.” 

The first Care Station opened in Statesboro, Georgia.

IHLA uses an integrated One Health approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems. Its mission is to transform the health and well-being of communities through applied evidence-based practices and technology integration. To learn more about IHLA please visit:.

Products and tests currently available at the Vidalia Care Station

General health

• Ibuprofen
• Urinary pain relief tablets
• Rinse-free bath wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• First-aid kit (10-person)
• Bandages

Children’s Health & Wellness

• Children’s pain reliever
• Diapers
• Baby wipes
  

Menstrual Products

• Regular pads
• Tampons
  

Diabetes Care

• Glucose tablets
• Glucose testing strips

Testing

• At-home STI tests, including HIV and syphilis

91Âţ»­app’s East Georgia Campus in Swainsboro will soar to new heights with the announcement of the campus’s new athletics name and logo. At the start of the next East Georgia Campus athletic season, student-athletes will compete as the Georgia Southern Golden 91Âţ»­app. The program is working toward National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) membership.

The Golden 91Âţ»­app represent a culture built on earning success through hard work and perseverance. The program embraces the grind that reveals true commitment to sport and turns that reality into a competitive advantage. More than a team, the Golden 91Âţ»­app are a family — fostering a campus environment where relentless student-athletes are known, supported and developed as whole people. As a four-year NAIA program, the Golden 91Âţ»­app will be built to fly, transforming the campus from a stepping stone into a launchpad where student-athletes can build continuity, recognition and something lasting. 

“The launch of the Golden 91Âţ»­app marks a defining moment for our East Georgia Campus. This new identity reflects the resilience, determination and pride that already exist within our student-athletes and our Swainsboro community,” said Georgia Southern President Kyle Marrero. “As we pursue NAIA membership, we are not simply changing a name — we are expanding opportunity, strengthening our commitment to student success, and building a program where student-athletes can grow, compete and leave a lasting legacy.”

The new name was selected following information and branding sessions with East Georgia Campus students, student-athletes, coaches, faculty, staff, campus leaders and community held over the last several months. 

The Golden 91Âţ»­app logo showcases a left-facing eagle head with a fierce determination echoing the dedication that the coaches, staff and student-athletes exhibit each and every day. The design glistens with a golden foundation creating a focal point of distinction while adding to the rich tradition of Georgia Southern’s proud Eagle Nation. The new logo is an extension for Georgia Southern, representing how the institution continues to grow and impact more communities. 

Joe Heikkinen has been selected to direct East Georgia Campus athletics. Heikkinen is a former Division 1 football scholar athlete at Rice University. He has coached at the collegiate, high school, youth and professional levels with experience in strengthening academic and athletic outcomes. With more than 20 years of professional experience in sales and operations, he has led teams, managed significant budgets and developed sustainable systems. Heikkinen joined the Golden 91Âţ»­app in February. 

“I am incredibly honored to join our East Georgia Campus and the greater Eagle Nation at such an exciting time,” said Heikkinen. “The Golden 91Âţ»­app brand represents more than a new identity. This is about creating pride across campus and throughout our local community. It represents our commitment to developing student-athletes who succeed in the classroom, in competition and in life. I look forward to sharing this vision with our fans and partners in April.” 

A special community event celebrating the launch of Golden 91Âţ»­app Athletics is scheduled for April 27, 2026, on the University’s East Georgia Campus. Heikkinen and Golden 91Âţ»­app student-athletes will be on hand for a meet-and-greet, while attendees get a first look at the full Golden 91Âţ»­app athletics brand, including uniform concepts and facility branding. The event will also feature updates on athletic facilities and the University’s transition to the NAIA.