Developing the Ability to Arrange for Jazz Ensembles

This capstone consists of six jazz arrangement projects of increasing complexity that were done in the spring semester of 2024 by myself. The six arrangements have been attached via pdf in the sequential order they were created throughout the semester. Each attached arrangement includes a word schematic detailing what each section of the song is specifically doing from an arranging perspective, a score that lines up each instrumental part acting as a roadmap for the songs, and individual parts for each instrument so that the songs can be played by ensembles equipped with the proper instrumentation. The first two projects were done entirely by hand with pencil and paper while the last four were done with a music notation software called Finale. For the sake of organization and readability of the large files, a table of contents is attached underneath the introductory paragraph that lines up with the pages on the actual pdf file, detailing where each arrangement begins. The introductory document also provides some context about what jazz arranging entails, a brief reflection on the overall process, and brief descriptions of each arrangement along with what makes each arrangement stand out

The Shrouds

This is a film review of The Shrouds (2024), directed by David Cronenberg

Fostering Critical Thinking in the World Language Classroom

In education, the lack of critical thinking (CT) in students has become increasingly evident in classrooms of all contents. There are a multitude of factors that have contributed to this issue over the last ten years, so just one is not solely to blame. This study examines the prevalence of a CT deficit in world language classrooms. Data from Integrated Performance Assessments (IPAs) and classroom observations proposed a need for students to increase their CT skills in the Spanish language. The study consisted of 21 students in a Spanish 2 course in grades 9-12 throughout 6 weeks. The research analyzed how the implementation of CT strategies such as questioning, reading and summarizing, and IPAs would improve student’s CT skills in the world language classroom. Students’ CT skills were assessed through pre-and post-IPAs, 4 short-constructed formative writing checks for learning, and anecdotal observations throughout the research period. Overall, 18 of the 21 students (85%) maintained or increased their performance of the constructed formative responses each week. In IPAs, 21 of 21 students (100%) increased or maintained their proficiency through the pre-and post-assessments, demonstrating critical thinking in Spanish. By the end of the study, students reported feelings of improvement in reading, writing, and speaking skills in Spanish also increasing student self-efficacy, motivation, and advocacy. Based on these findings the implementation of CT fostering strategies like Integrated Performance Assessments, probing, higher-level questioning, and reading and summarizing had a positive impact on student CT skills and language proficiency in Spanish 2

Rapid Review A: The Logic of Terrorist Use of Unmanned Aerial Systems, Enabling Factors, and Barriers to Exploitation

The National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education (NCITE) Center has been tasked by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to support evidenced, novel frameworks that accurately represent the current nature and future trajectory of the threat of terrorist use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). In support of a subject matter expert summit hosted in early 2025, the project team completed three rapid review reports which focus on key dimensions of the issue, which include emerging trends, the logic of terrorist UAS exploitation, and related risk factors

Echoes of the Oracle: A Spatial Study of Delphi A Digital History Portfolio Project

This project utilizes ArcGIS to digitally reconstruct ancient Delphi, offering an immersive exploration of its sacred landscape. By blending historical research, archaeology, and digital technology, it brings the sanctuary to life, shedding light on its religious, cultural, and political significance. Delphi was more than just a religious center, it was a place where prophecy shaped decision making, where devotion intersected with identity, and where history was inscribed into the very landscape. Through this digital recreation, we gain a deeper understanding of how the ancient world perceived and engaged with this legendary site, allowing us to see Delphi not as a distant ruin but as a vibrant and dynamic space of belief, power, and tradition. Explore the three sections below to gain a deeper understanding of how the ancient world perceived and engaged with this legendary site, in which Delphi is not a distant ruin, but a vibrant and dynamic space of belief, power, and tradition

AI-Driven Malevolent Creativity: Implications for Terrorist Innovation through Constrained and Unconstrained LLM Tools Sam Hunter

This set of studies sought to examine how large language models (LLMs) are used in the malevolent creativity problem solving process. Terrorist innovation, also referred to as tactical innovation or malevolent innovation, is centered on terrorist’s use of new methods for violence. Following the advent of accessible LLM tools, such as generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT), this current effort examined how individuals use these tools to gather information when generating both novel and harmful ideas. Put differently, LLM tools synthesize large amounts of information, that would previously be a limitation of an individual’s knowledge base, to help them ideate and plan attacks

Pathways to Aggression: Understanding Peer Victimization in Adolescence

Insight into aggression among early adolescents is important to understanding its predictors and consequences. In adolescence, aggression is typically related to underlying issues. Addressing this is important, as unmanageable aggression progressing past early adolescence can result in involvement in the criminal justice system. Studies show that peer victimization is associated with increased levels of aggression. Aggressive adolescents may attract victimization from their peers, or those who are victimized may respond with aggression. The current study followed a sample of 182 fifth and sixth graders over the course of the school year. Constructs such as aggression, peer victimization, and social withdrawal were measured. Aggression was stable over the course of the school year. Boys were significantly higher in peer victimization at the beginning of the school year. However, boys were also significantly higher in aggression at both the beginning and end of the school year compared to girls. Aggression at the end of the school year was positively associated with peer victimization at the beginning of the school year. Regression analyses were also conducted to predict change in aggression. Furthermore, peer victimization predicted aggression. Social withdrawal moderated this relationship

The Hidden Cost of Security: A Short Guide to Understanding Vicarious Trauma

In their mission to protect the nation, counterterrorism and counter-extremism professionals are often exposed to violent and traumatic material, including graphic images and firsthand accounts of abuse and violence. For many, this can take a profound toll – professionally and personally