Recent UWA graduate presents research in Minneapolis

LIVINGSTON, Ala.— University of West Alabama graduate Randa Simpson recently traveled to Minneapolis, Minn., to present her Honor’s Thesis entitled, “Back that Sexism Up: An Analysis of the Representation of Women’s Bodies in Music Videos.”

Simpson graduated as an Honors Scholar in May 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications.

“The University has prepared me to be able to present and defend my thesis on such a level that is unparalleled from any other University,” Simpson said. “The support of my mentors, Dr. Farris, Dr. Jones, Dr. Shaul, and Dr. Davis, was something truly special. They all went above and beyond for me.”

Simpson said that the encouragement she received from these professors played a significant role in her success as a student in the program.

“You can tell that when the professors see the drive within a student to accomplish a goal, they want to fuel that drive and see it through to the finish line in any way they can,” Simpson continued.

A Tuscaloosa, Ala., native, Simpson presented at the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues (SPSSI) conference in July 2016.

“Randa worked very hard to complete the requirements for graduating as an Honors Scholar,” said Dr. Amy Jones, academic advisor for Simpson.

“Her thesis was top-notch and earned her a spot in a poster session at a Biennial, International conference,” Jones continued. “She presented her undergraduate research alongside professors and doctoral students, fielding questions and interest from a variety of scholars.”

According to UWA College of Liberal Arts Dean Dr. Mark Davis, Simpson is the product of a successful academic research culture within Integrated Marketing Communications and Sociology programs in the College.

“Through the guidance of professors in Sociology, Integrated Marketing Communications, and the Honors program, Randa produced an amazing research project,” Davis said. “It was no surprise that Randa’s research was accepted for presentation at the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues national bi-annual convention.”

“I am very proud of what Randa accomplished through her research,” Davis continued. “She serves as a shining example to her classmates of what you are able to achieve while studying at UWA.”

Simpson said that UWA provided her with an education and support system that is one-of-a-kind.

“I am a firm believer that I wouldn’t have gotten this attention and care from a larger university, and for that, I am forever thankful for the preparation, encouragement, and experiences that UWA has given me throughout this journey,” Simpson said.

For more information on UWA’s Integrated Marketing Communications program, contact Dr. Amy Jones at ajones@uwa.edu or 205-652-3558.