Sophie Copple ’26 (English, French and Francophone Studies), "Critical Conversations with Virginia Woolf and Non-Canonized Minority Modernist Authors" (Advised by Danielle Morgan, English)

Sophie will be continuing work on her website, "Underrepresented Modernism Project," by performing research putting three lesser known women authors in conversation with Virginia Woolf, to compare the ways writers of the same era with drastically different backgrounds are engaging with the world around them. The project will culminate in an extensive research paper and her own creative work inspired by her findings. The project is meant to serve as both research and a thought experiment exploring the many ways writers can be in conversation with each other.

Morgan Drake ’26 (Studio Art), “Flying into the Future” (Advised by Ryan Carrington, Art and Art History)

Morgan’s project will examine the past, present, and future of humanity’s connection to machines and technology through aircraft that are historically or contemporarily important, as well as imagined future designs. While his drawings’ precise, detailed lines mirror the precision and engineering of the real aircraft, there is also a contrast between Morgan’s natural, manual work, and the mechanical, mass-produced, high-tech subjects. This project, which will consist of 3-5 framed drawings displayed in the Dowd Building, honors the beauty of well-designed, intricately engineered machines, reminding us of their impact on the world and questioning their future, hoping for a utopia where aircraft and machines make life and exploration safer, more convenient, and without limits. The project also has a deeply personal aspect, channeling Morgan’s lifelong fascination with flying machines and his dream of a piloting career. The project shows the passion Morgan pours into the drawings he makes, as he imagines this dream becoming his future.

Ayden Eways ’27 (Honors Political Science, Music), “Exiled Voices: A Musical Portrait of Palestinian Displacement” (Advised by Scot Hana Weir, Music)

Ayden’s Project involves collaboration with the Palestinian culture to tell the lost history at the hands of the atrocities going on in Palestine. As a proud member of the American Federation for Ramallah Palestine, Ayden shares her Palestinian culture with the world, and even sang the national anthem at the convention this past year! Her goal is examine issues critically and practice ethical journalism in all her endeavours. Her project features the stories of many, with chilling lyrics, and strong, powerful tone. 

Elise Fendon ’26 (Studio Art), “Colors of Mourning” (Advised by Ryan Carrington, Art and Art History)

Elise’s project will examine non-western interpretations of death and mourning. In a series of 2-3 paintings, Elise will produce pieces that illustrate concepts related to death and mourning outside of the Western sphere. The project aims to connect with those who have experienced loss and offer new ways to look at death and the afterlife. In doing this, the project hopes to bring comfort and offer new perspectives. At the same time, it functions as an exploration of Elise’s own grief as she deals with the loss of her father. “Colors of Mourning” is a deeply personal and emotional project that hopes to be healing for both artist and audience.

Ava Garcia ’28 (Biology), “The Role of Music Therapy in Pediatric Care: Enhancing Emotional Well-being in Children with Medical Conditions, with a Focus on Pediatric Cardiology” (Advised by Teresa McCollough, Music; Dawn Hart, Biology) 

Ava’s project investigates the role of music therapy in improving emotional well-being and reducing stress in pediatric patients across medical specialties, with particular attention to children with heart conditions. Through a combination of interviews with healthcare professionals and music therapists, along with a review of medical and music literature, Ava will explore how music can be used as a therapeutic tool to ease anxiety, support recovery, and provide comfort to children facing serious illnesses. The project will culminate in a multimedia advocacy presentation to share findings and raise awareness about the importance of integrating music therapy more fully into pediatric care.

Anthony Ventura ’26 (English), “Storytelling Leader for Ohlone AR” (Advised by Amy Lueck, English)

Anthony’s project involves collaborating with Ohlone cultural representatives and Ohlone youth to showcase their important legacy, both past, present, and future here at Santa Clara. As storytelling lead for the Ohlone AR virtual reality tour, Anthony conducts interviews and develops research documents to create narratives that honor the Ohlone people. His  goal is to serve as a voice for the stories they want to share with our community while also making their history more accessible and interactive. The Ohlone AR tour features place-based storytelling, connecting Ohlone history to locations on campus and I’m confident that our upcoming stops will continue to reflect the continuing and important presence of the Ohlone today!