Delta State University students excel in Geospatial Information Technologies program
Cleveland, MS (07/16/2024) — Contact: Christy Riddle FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4336
Email: criddle@deltastate.edu
Delta State University students excel in Geospatial Information Technologies program
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University is proud to highlight the exceptional achievements of students in the Geospatial Information Technologies (GIT) program. Under the guidance of Talbot Brooks, Director of the Geospatial Center and Professor of Practice, three students have recently completed outstanding capstone projects that showcase their mastery of geospatial science and its applications to real-world issues.
Modern Piracy - Kameron Bates
Kameron Bates, hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, explored the global issue of piracy with his project titled "Modern Piracy." Inspired by his fascination with marine logistics and the movie Captain Phillips, Kameron developed a user-friendly dashboard to track and update piracy incidents in real-time. His project underscores the dynamic and interdisciplinary nature of GIS applications.
Bates said, "I've always been captivated by Social Studies and Science, and GIS presented a unique opportunity to blend these interests. My capstone project allowed me to delve into the complexities of marine logistics and create a practical tool for tracking piracy."
Historic Native American Trade Routes - Jason Daenault
Jason Daenault, currently employed full-time with Applied Research Associates and serving in the Alabama Air National Guard, examined the influence of historic Native American trade routes on modern transportation networks. His project, inspired by a conversation with a former boss, offers valuable insights for infrastructure planning.
Daenault said, "GIS is a field that perfectly complements my work in the Air Force. The program at DSU, supported by esteemed organizations like the USGIF, USGS, and NGA, has equipped me with the skills to advance my career and contribute to meaningful projects like this one."
Detecting Mass Graves and Genocide - Sheyla Sicily
Sheyla Sicily, a recent graduate from Houma, Louisiana, developed a comprehensive project on "Geospatial Solutions for Locating Mass Graves." Drawing from her background and a keen interest in true crime, Sheyla utilized satellite imagery and geospatial databases to investigate mass graves, with a focus on the Argentine Forensic Anthropology Team and a case study on Gaza. Sheyla's project aims to inform humanitarian and conflict investigators about the available geospatial tools for evidence collection.
"My project illustrates the immense potential of satellite imagery in monitoring critical issues like deforestation, troop movements, and even criminal activities such as mass graves. The Geospatial Analysis and Intelligence degree at DSU provided me with the comprehensive knowledge and practical experience needed to execute this project successfully," Sicily said.
Brooks commented on the students' achievements, saying, "Our GEOINT students did some amazing work this past semester - I think their work is important and demonstrates the relevancy of university programs to current affairs. The total time and effort they put into these projects is often equivalent to that seen in master's degree projects, and the creativity and critical thinking they demonstrate is amazing. As faculty, we don't prescribe anything - we advise and suggest, but the student must identify the topic, do the literature and data search, plan out the maps and visualizations, do the analysis, and write it all up on their own."
The Geospatial Information Technologies program at Delta State University continues to produce graduates who are well-prepared to tackle complex issues using cutting-edge geospatial tools and methodologies. These capstone projects exemplify the program's commitment to academic excellence and practical application.
For more information about the GIT program and student projects, please visit:
GIT program website: www.deltastate.edu/artsandsciences/geospatial-information-technologies/
Modern Piracy: Map Viewer
How Historic Native American Trade Routes Shaped Current Transportation Networks: StoryMap
Detecting Mass Graves and Genocide: StoryMap
Cutline: Jason Daenault's project examined the influence of historic Native American trade routes on modern transportation networks.
About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 35 countries. The university offers numerous unique programs, including the Delta Music Institute entertainment industry program and one of the premier commercial aviation programs in the world. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
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Jason Daenault’s project examined the influence of historic Native American trade routes on modern transportation networks.