McNeese Students and Professors Present Research at Conference 

McNeese State University students and professors presented their research to the National Council on Family Relations (NCFR) conference in Baltimore, Maryland, in November.  

The students worked closely with assistant professor Dr. Ilya Okhotnikov in the department of social sciences as they conducted a systematic literature review and analysis. Assistant professor Dr. Elizabeth Wroten also presented research at the conference. 

The NCFR, founded in 1938, is the oldest nonprofit, nonpartisan, multidisciplinary professional association focused solely on family research, practice and education. McNeese’s Bachelor of Arts in sociology, with a concentration in family science, is approved by the NCFR so that graduates can apply to become Certified Family Life Educators without an additional examination. 

Cheyenne Guillory, a Reeves senior sociology major with a concentration in family science, presented her research on state-funded childcare in Louisiana and how it can help the economic growth in the state. She says she chose this topic because she has seen first-hand how the cost of childcare can drive a family who is already struggling deeper into hardship. 

“Childcare is becoming unattainable and the assistance available isn’t enough to help families stay afloat,” Guillory said. “I wanted to explore how improving state-funded childcare could support family stability, reduce stress and ultimately strengthen Louisiana’s economy across generations.” 

Christiana Aseyomi, a senior nursing and psychology major from Nigeria, also presented research on college students’ well-being related to physical activity and social support.  

Aseyomi said she enjoyed the workshops and breakout sessions where she met people who shared their experiences. 

“The best part of attending the conference was having conversations and making connections,” Guillory added. “I talked with people at all different stages of their careers who all shared the same passion for helping families.” 

Both students encourage others to take advantage of research opportunities as undergraduates.  

“Undergraduate research is incredibly valuable. It helps you grow academically, builds your professional confidence and opens doors you might not have known existed,” Guillory explained. “Presenting at NCFR showed me what I’m capable of and helped clarify the kind of work I want to pursue. It’s an experience that can shape your future in ways you don’t expect.”