EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s Stephanie Casey, professor of secondary education mathematics, has been selected as a recipient of the Fulbright Scholarship. The Fulbright Program, a flagship U.S. initiative for international educational and cultural exchange, fosters connections between scholars and a global network of leaders and educators.

Casey's research proposal, "Secondary Students' Interpretations of Modern Big Data Visualizations," focuses on analyzing secondary students' understanding of data visualizations, a critical skill in today's data-driven world. Her research aims to develop effective techniques for teaching data literacy globally. She will conduct her research at the STEM Education Research Center at the University of Canberra, Australia.

"This research will equip students with the tools to navigate the ever-increasing volume of data they encounter," said Casey. "Data literacy is essential, and this project will contribute significantly to its effective instruction."

EMU Faculty Honored with Fulbright Recognition

In addition to Casey’s achievement, the Fulbright program has recognized two additional EMU faculty members. Professor Mehmet Yaya from the Department of Economics emerged as a semi-finalist with his research proposal exploring Syrian refugee adoption in Turkey. Now, as a designated alternate, Professor Yaya remains eligible to be selected as a finalist if a position becomes available. Professor Ovidiu Calin from the Department of Mathematics and Statistics achieved finalist status with his proposal investigating the connection between deep learning and physics.

Calin plans to research jointly with two faculty members from the Department of Physics at the University of Bucharest. Given his alma mater is also the University of Bucharest, there are no cultural challenges, ensuring a smooth transition. Calin plans to divide his time at the University of Bucharest between teaching at the University and research. 

“We are all very familiar with the Artificial Intelligence tools, which have changed our work recently, but there might be other architectures out there, which can further improve life,” said Calin.

The Fulbright Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, provides scholars with opportunities to advance their research, collaborate with international colleagues, and contribute to global understanding.

“Our professors have worked very hard on their research proposals,” said Carla Damiano, professor of German and Fulbright program advisor. Their passion is very evident in every aspect of their work.”

For more information about the Fulbright Program, visit the webpage. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.