On both far sides of the photo are Scott Shaw ('03) and Sreya Roy ('23), who work and study, respectively, at the University of Iowa, where Monmouth chemistry students and faculty attended an ACS conference. Also pictured are, from left, professor Audra Goach, Alayna Earle, Kody Coyne, Jesia Choity, Riley Kalnins, and Ivy Hawkins
MONMOUTH, ILLINOIS (October 16, 2025) — In early October, five chemistry students represented Monmouth College at the American Chemical Society (ACS) Local Section Conference, hosted by the University of Iowa. The event brought together undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and industry professionals from across the region to share their research through poster sessions and presentations.
The Monmouth delegation included seniors Riley Kalnins of Lincoln, Nebraska, and Ivy Hawkins of New Baden, Illinois, and juniors Jesia Choity of Bangladesh, Kody Coyne of Bluffton, Indiana, and Alayna Earle of Clinton, Illinois, accompanied by chemistry professor Audra Goach and chemistry lab manager Steve Distin. Each student presented their findings from projects they conducted during the college's Kieft Summer Research Program, which offers students the opportunity to engage in hands-on, faculty-mentored research over the course of two months or more.
For Monmouth students, the opportunity to participate in such a respected scientific meeting provided both professional development and recognition of their dedication to research. Faculty judges and industry professionals evaluated the conference's poster sessions, assessing both the quality of the research and the clarity of each presenter's communication.
Among the Monmouth group, Coyne was honored as one of the best presenters, receiving an award for excellence in research presentation. His project, developed over the summer, drew attention for its innovative approach and clear articulation of scientific concepts.
Kody Coyne receives an award for excellence in research presentation
Reflecting on the trip, Coyne said, "I had a wonderful experience at the conference. It was great to get to share my research and discuss it with people who were interested in it. Whether they worked in the industry, were professors or were grad students, they asked me questions that made me think more deeply about my project. From the conversations I had with these amazing people, there are new avenues I'm interested in exploring with my research."
Goach noted that participation in events such as the ACS conference is a vital component of Monmouth's chemistry curriculum, which emphasizes not only laboratory skills but also scientific communication and collaboration.
"We were invited to present by a Monmouth College alum, Scot Shaw ('03)," she said. "Anytime the chemistry program faculty have the opportunity for students to present at a research conference, we make it happen."
Goach said communicating research concisely and accurately is critical as a scientist, and poster sessions allow students to interact with many scientists, allowing them to share their work while also learning.
"I always enjoy seeing my students excited about their research, and today I saw five of them doing just that," she added. "I am very proud of all of them and how they represented Monmouth College. They are all ready for successful careers."
Throughout the summer, each student worked closely with Monmouth faculty to design and conduct original experiments in the chemistry and biology labs, gaining valuable technical and analytical skills.
Their participation in the ACS conference reflects the department's commitment to providing real-world scientific experiences that prepare students for graduate school, industry positions, and professional research careers.
The students' success at the University of Iowa underscores Monmouth's strong emphasis on undergraduate research and experiential learning. Opportunities like these not only allow students to share their findings with the broader scientific community but also highlight Monmouth's dedication to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and professional growth among its students.
Founded in 1876, the American Chemical Society is one of the world's largest scientific organizations, with more than 150,000 members globally. Its regional and local section conferences provide valuable platforms for emerging scientists to present their work, network with professionals, and gain feedback from experts in academia and industry.
