UWRF students present research at Research in the Rotunda in Madison

 

UWRF students present research at Research in the Rotunda in Madison 

March 13, 2026 - Eight undergraduate researchers from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls joined around 125 students from across the Universities of Wisconsin to present their work at the 22nd annual Research in the Rotunda event, held March 11 at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison.  

Seven current students and one recent graduate represented UWRF at the event, presenting research on projects as diverse as colliding catalysts in chemistry, the biology of cancer, business psychology, Latin American history and others. Students had the opportunity to discuss their research with legislators, staff and Governor Tony Evers. 

“It was inspiring to see that they care about what we are doing at the undergraduate level,” said Evelyn Ashbach, a sophomore psychology major from River Falls. “We have talented students at UWRF and it's awesome that we get to showcase that at the state level. This was a valuable experience and an unforgettable one.” 

Ashbach and her research partner, Anna George of New Richmond, who graduated in December with a degree in psychology, studied a concept called workplace friendship orientation, which gauges how much people enjoy being close with their coworkers. Both Ashbach and George have studied industrial organizational psychology. Citing the variations between remote and in-person work, as well as an epidemic of loneliness recognized by the U.S. Surgeon General in 2023, they hope their research can one day be used to help employers find the right fits for their unique positions and increase employee retention. 

Ashbach said participating in research at UWRF is one of the best decisions she has made in her undergraduate career. 

“Applying what I have learned to real-world scenarios is an experience unlike any other and presenting the research gives me valuable skills that I can utilize in grad school,” Ashbach said. 

Ashbach’s experience illustrates the value of undergraduate research as a high-impact educational practice, said Molly Gerrish, director of Undergraduate Research, Scholarly and Creative Activity (URSCA) at UWRF.  

“Students who participate in research and public presentations such as Research in the Rotunda often describe the experience as transformative,” Gerrish said. “Many report that engaging in research helps them develop a stronger sense of academic identity and confidence in communicating complex ideas. They frequently note that presenting their work allows them to see the real-world relevance of their studies while strengthening their ability to engage in thoughtful dialogue about their findings.” 

Other UWRF students who participated in Research in the Rotunda included Hayden Banks, a senior chemistry major from Minneapolis; Anthony Fuchs, a senior food science major from Monticello; Samantha Imes, a senior biomedical and health science major from Buffalo, Minn.; Elena Fuglestad, a senior elementary education and Spanish double major from Alexandria, Minn.; Rebecca Gill, an exercise and sport science major from Oregon; and Ruth Kosterman, a senior biology major from Hudson.  

“These projects really represented the breadth and depth of academic inquiry taking place across campus and this was a unique opportunity for students to share their work with a broad audience that includes policymakers, community members and university leaders from across the state,” Gerrish said. “Presenting research in the state capital not only highlights the impact of undergraduate scholarship but also illustrates the value of investing in experiential learning opportunities that connect academic inquiry with issues affecting communities throughout Wisconsin.” 

Photo: Eight UW-River Falls undergraduate researchers traveled to Madison March 11 to present their scholarly work at the 22nd annual Research in the Rotunda event at the Wisconsin State Capitol. From left: Director of Undergraduate Research, Scholarly and Creative Activity Molly Gerrish, Evelyn Ashbach, Samantha Imes, Anna George, Hayden Banks, Ruth Kosterman, Elena Fuglestad, Rebecca Gill, Anthony Fuchs, Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth and Interim Provost Wes Chapin. UWRF photo.