By Fatima Magana '22

ALLIANCE- Research from Abigail Franks ’25, accounting major, that focused on the representation of the LGBTQ+ community in media and the impact it has on its community members’ mental health was recently published in The NCHC Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity (UReCA). Franks is the first University of Mount Union student to be published in this journal.

While the article she wrote is in a field unassociated with accounting, Franks, a student in the Honors Program, hopes to include the piece in her senior capstone. She also presented her research from the piece at the spring 2023 Mid-East Honors Association (MEHA) Conference where it was awarded second place in the “Research Paper” category.

Franks '25

“I found out about UReCA through Dr. David Thiele and my involvement with the Honors Program,” said Franks. “Dr. Thiele encouraged me to make a submission to the journal.”

Franks explained that the paper strongly represents her academic interests and curiosities, but most importantly, her growth as a student. As a result, she is proud of the excellence it has achieved.

Franks is one of many Purple Raiders making an impact in the lives of others through her academic, personal and professional pursuits. Click here to read Franks' article in UReCA.