

Franz 231 10:15 – 11:05 am
How Does Income Inequality Impact Life Expectancy in the United States? Presented By: Novalee Robinson
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich
The Effects of Disability Diagnoses on Standardized Testing Scores in the European Union
Presented By: Liam Rogers
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich
The Labor’s Force: A Study on the Relationship between Unions and Innovation across Europe
Presented By: Taj O’Malley
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich
Franz 231 11:15 – 12:05 pm
Estimating Determinants of Single-Family Home Prices at Different Price Levels: A Quantile Regression Analysis
Presented By: Lucas Berry
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich
Stakeholder Perception of Potential Lithium Mining in Oregon Presented By: Michael Hauger, Layton Rushing
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich

Franz 026 11:15 – 12:05 pm
Differentiating Stocks by Rally, Crash, or Neutral: A Macroeconometric Approach
This finance research uses machine learning models in Python to explore correlations between different categories of S&P 500 stocks — classified as crashed, rallied, or neutral — and various macroeconomic metrics. It aims to identify patterns and relationships between stock performance and broader economic indicators, offering insights into market behavior and potential predictive factors.
Presented By: Amber Shen
Faculty Sponsor: Brian Adams
How Macroeconomic Trends Shape Smarter Investment Portfolios
This presentation shows how macroeconomic data can guide sector and stock selection. By testing portfolio strategies against benchmarks, it demonstrates how economic trends lead to smarter, more resilient investments. A well-designed portfolio anticipates economic shifts, balancing risk with opportunity for sustainable, long-term growth.
Presented By: Kevin Andrews
Faculty Sponsor: Brian Adams
UP Alternative Investment 2025
Our team competed in the Portland Alternative Investment Association Challenge, analyzing Royal Gold (RGLD), a leader in precious metals royalties. Royal Gold ensures stable revenue and high margins while minimizing risk. We assess its diversified portfolio, financial health, and macroeconomic impacts to determine its investment potential within alternative assets.
Presented By: Shane Fuse, Max Daniels, Toby Okoji
Faculty Sponsor: Brian Adams
Franz 231 2:15 – 3:05 pm
BUS 465 Capstone
Presented By: Alondra Ruiz Contreras
Faculty Sponsor: Claire Costin
Belonging in Accounting
This project seeks to examine the association between a sense of belonging and intent to stay or leave the public accounting profession. This study will contribute to our understanding about why there is a pipeline shortage in accounting and potentially create solutions to reduce barriers to access.
Presented By: Rachel Shimokawa
Faculty Sponsor: Claire Costin

Franz 026 2:15 – 3:05 pm
Understanding and Incentivizing Recycling in Gresham, Oregon Presented By: Mai Nguyen
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich
Wildfire Smoke and Childcare: How do Facilities Adapt? Presented By: Autumn Hunter, Rowan Bierwirth
Faculty Sponsor: Ruth Dittrich
Franz 231 3:15 – 4:05 pm
Annual Scholarship Day Elevator Pitch Competition
Students will be presenting a 90-second “pitch” for a company, a not-for-profit, a technology, or a product. The audience will select the best pitch, and you don’t have to pitch to be part of the audience. The winner receives a $100 gift card. All students are welcome to attend!
Presented By: Franz Center for Leadership Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Faculty Sponsor: Jon Down, Lisa Reed
More About UP Scholarship Day
Please visit – Scholarship Day | University of Portland