Every fall, the University of Delaware research community gathers for a celebration of discovery. The 2025 Cardiovascular Research Symposium, sponsored by UD’s Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) in Cardiovascular Health, provides a collaborative platform for faculty, postdoctoral researchers and students to share breakthroughs that advance our understanding of heart and vascular health. This year’s event featured a keynote presentation, talks by UD faculty, and 35 posters showcasing the breadth of cardiovascular health-related research at UD.

UDaily interviewed two undergraduate students from the UD College of Health Sciences who presented posters at the 2025 COBRE Research Symposium.

Grant Maxa is a senior majoring in human physiology with a minor in business administration, who aspires to become a physician assistant. He works closely with faculty mentor Melissa Witman, associate professor of KAAP, to study the effects of Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies on the vascular system. Maxa’s research is supported by the American Heart Association’s Undergraduate Student Training Award.

Rachel Thomas is a senior nursing major who aspires to become a certified nurse anesthetist. Her research, guided by Christine Hoch, assistant professor of nursing, focuses on self-care behaviors in adults with heart failure.

Q: What inspired you to pursue this line of research?

Thomas: I have always been driven to help others. I was inspired by my grandmother, who took care of my grandfather, who had Parkinson’s disease, and my great-grandmother. I saw firsthand the strength and compassion required to care for someone and wanted to pursue a career that embodies those same values. Through nursing, I have interacted with adults with heart failure frequently. I wanted to apply my passion for patient care in a hospital setting and contribute to research that drives everyday healthcare practices and improves people's quality of life.

Maxa: I have always been eager to join a research group and collaborate with a team to tackle meaningful challenges. With a strong interest in the cardiovascular system, I was immediately drawn to Dr. Witman’s lab and felt it would be the perfect fit for me.

Q: Why is this research important? 

Thomas: This research will lead to personalized patient education and follow-up care tailored to the individual. Enhancing self-care skills in adults with heart failure can reduce mortality and hospitalization rates and ultimately improve overall quality of life.