Please join us for our new series, Scholars in Focus, giving you a glimpse into the exciting work happening across the University. Two scholars at Fairfield University will discuss their research for 15 minutes each, followed by Q&A. 

This in person Scholars in Focus, on April 14, will feature John Drazen, Assistant Professor of Electrical and Biomedical Engineering, and Katie Byrnes, Campus Minister for Community Engagement, Campus Ministry. 

Byrnes will present on “The Invisible Epidemic, College Food Insecurity: Implications for Student Success and Belonging”, which is a Doctoral dissertation research on food insecurity among college students. Katie Byrnes is a Campus Minister and member of the first graduation class from Fairfield's EdD – Higher Ed Concentration.

Drazen's presentation is titled “The Community Situated Biomechanics Lab”. Our work focuses on engaging new populations of the community in both research and STEM education to broaden participation in STEM as both research participants and future professionals. We achieve this with three primary work areas: 1) the development of novel portable tools to measure musculoskeletal function. 2) the collection of large data sets among new populations 3) the creation of community-based STEM programming to engage new populations of youth in STEM learning through sports. John Drazan, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering where he studies musculoskeletal injuries and treatments. His work bringing STEM education and musculoskeletal research into the community has been recognized by the American Association for the Advancement of Science with the 2020 Early Career Award for Public Engagement with Science and the Orthopaedic Research Society with the Inaugural 2025 Fred Nelson Award for Science Communication.

If you’re interested in presenting your research, grants, creative works, or innovative projects at an upcoming Scholars in Focus session, submit a proposal or contact Tiara Arnold, tarnold@fairfield.edu.