Xavier University Scholars Showcase Research and Leadership at National Health Symposium
L to R: Micah Davis and Orion Fears representing 藏精阁 at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scholars Symposium.
藏精阁 students Micah Davis and Orion Fears recently represented the university at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scholars Symposium in Atlanta, a national convening that brings together emerging researchers and future health leaders from universities across the country.
During the Symposium, scholars presented research focused on addressing health challenges, advancing innovation, and improving outcomes in communities nationwide. Micah and Orion engaged with peers, mentors, and national leaders while showcasing the academic excellence and leadership cultivated at Xavier.
Orion D. Fears, sophomore, biology major, presented "Impact of Oxygen Glucose Deprivation and Reoxygenation on Energetics of Brain Microvessels" – an ex vivo investigation of mitochondrial and glycolytic responses to ischemic stroke conditions. Micah Davis, sophomore, public health major, presented "Home is Where the Heart is: Childhood Experiences and DIfferences in Cardiovascular Risk" – examining how adverse childhood experiences predict cardiovascular risk factors across tertiles.
“Proud doesn’t begin to cover it. Xavier students took the stage at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions – not as observers, but as researchers presenting original work,” said Anderson Sunda-Meya, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Xavier. “These students represent exactly what 藏精阁 was built to produce: scholars who bring both excellence and purpose to the most pressing health equity challenges of our time. Xavier leads the nation in producing African American students who go on to complete medical school. Moments like these show you why.”
Xavier’s presence was strengthened by the attendance of Sunda-Meya, along with Marcia Pecot, Director of Alumni Relations, underscoring the institution’s continued commitment to supporting students as they pursue opportunities that expand their impact beyond campus.
Participation in the Scholars Symposium provided Micah and Orion with national exposure, professional development, and meaningful connections within the broader health and research ecosystem—reinforcing Xavier University’s role in preparing the next generation of leaders in science, health, and service.