Laura Matt, a dual biology and chemistry minor, was awarded first place in the annual regional TriBeta District Convention for her presentation “Antibacterial Properties of a Novel 1,2,4 Oxadiazole.” Laura's research stems from a 2021 competitive summer research opportunity in the TXWES Chemistry Department under the supervision of Dr. Phillip Pelphrey, Ph.D., and a required two-semester research course in the Biology Department under the supervision of Christopher T. Parker, Ph.D. Laura's presentation was awarded first place in the District II oral presentation slate that heard 17 presentations from Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas University students. Ms. Matt won the Frank G. Brooks award that comes with the expectation that she will take the presentation to the national convention held in Oklahoma City in June.

The district convention was held at the Mt. Lebanon Retreat Center of Dallas Baptist University. Beta Beta Beta (TriBeta) is an honor society for students, particularly undergraduates, dedicated to improving the understanding and appreciation of biological study and extending the boundaries of human knowledge through scientific research.