A major study by Dr. Chiqian Zhang, assistant professor of civil engineering, is being published as the opening lead chapter in a book published by Elsevier Academic Press. His research, which provides a new framework for monitoring natural surface water quality, is the culmination of a three-year, nationwide effort monitoring 12 major rivers across the country. Zhang and his team have successfully demonstrated advanced technology to determine a river’s health faster and more accurately.

Dr. Wesley Jackson, assistant professor of history, presented at the annual meeting of the Organization of American Historians. He examined the failure of American education reform, which excludes communities most affected by decisions that shape children’s education. He also spoke to the Arkansas Historical Association, arguing that the economies of indigenous societies were more sophisticated than first thought, challenging outdated characterizations of pre-European contact and providing geographic and infrastructural foundations for European and American settlement patterns.

Physical therapy professors Dr. Kevin Brueilly (left ), department chair, and Dr. Jim Farris (right), program director, applied their expertise in the form of public service for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club last month. Brueilly was serving his eighth year, and Farris his first, as part of the safety and security team. Now security host supervisor, Brueilly recruits and trains personnel to assist patrons with safety and healthcare issues. See more details online.