Innovation on Display: Catalyst Research Day 2026

The Health Professions Hub was the central venue for Catalyst, D’Youville University’s annual research day. This year’s event brought together faculty, staff, students, and community partners to present original research, creative scholarship, and new teaching innovations.

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The sheer range of inquiry on display was a testament to the diverse curiosity of the DYU spirit. In one corner, you might find a deep dive into environmental biology with The Effect of Fluridone on Hydrilla; in another, educational psychology strategies #1 Professor Influencer: How Taylor Swift and Parasocial Psychology Can Improve Learning Outcomes. Whether it was the clinical precision of Plyometric vs. Balance Training or the timely relevance of the Digital Dialogue on GLP-1 Medications, Catalyst proved that D’Youville is about finding solutions for the challenges that we face in the world today.

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With over 90 presentations and more than 100 presenters, the event utilized a mix of in-person poster sessions and concise three-minute talks. A virtual component was also integrated into the schedule, allowing the university’s online research community to present their findings and answer questions in real time alongside on-campus participants.

The event was organized by the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research (OSPR), which continues to prioritize the growth of the university’s research culture.

“Hosting Catalyst through the OSPR is a highlight of our academic year,” said Lindsey Jakiel Diulus, Executive Director of Sponsored Programs and Research. “There is an incredible energy that comes from seeing our students, faculty and staff showcase their hard work. We are thrilled to provide a platform that honors this level of intellectual curiosity and strengthens the collaborative spirit across all disciplines at D’Youville.”

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By providing a professional forum for these projects, Catalyst highlights D’Youville’s commitment to evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration.

More about Office of Sponsored Programs and Research (OSPR)