Student Receives Drinko Research Grant

Anneliese Schwartzmiller, a Westminster College a senior psychology major from Pittsburgh, was recently awarded a Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning Undergraduate Research Travel/Presentation Grant.

"The research grants for projects and creative activities must be conducted under the mentorship of Westminster College faculty," said Dr. Virginia Tomlinson, director of the Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at Westminster College.  "Funding may include supplies, equipment, travel to libraries and data sources, and travel to make presentations.  In order to apply for research support, the student must have a research proposal completed as a degree-seeking student at Westminster College, and be in good academic standing."

 Schwartzmiller is a daughter of Matthew and Annette Schwartzmiller, Pittsburgh, and a  graduate of Canevin High School.  The title of her research is, "Familiar History of Hypertension and Oral Contraceptive Use as Moderators of Cortisol Concentrations in College Females," and she was advised by Dr. Kirk Lunnen, assistant professor of psychology.

"Elevated levels of cortisol concentrations have been linked to an increased risk of numerous health related problems (Ahmed, de la Torre, and Wahlgren, 2004). Several studies have investigated the relationship between a familial history of hypertension and cortisol concentrations. Research has also considered the impact of oral contraceptive use on cortisol concentrations. However, to date, no studies have investigated the possible relationship between a familial history of hypertension and oral contraceptive use on cortisol concentrations. Salivary cortisol concentrations were compared across 40 females in four groups (with or without a familial history of hypertension and with or without a use of oral contraceptives) before and after a mental stressor. High sensitivity salivary cortisol enzyme immunoassay kits were used to analyze the data. Although there were no significant findings, the results do support several trends observed in previous research. Future research is needed to determine what prolonged effects these two factors have on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis," wrote Schwartzmiller.

 Contact Tomlinson at (724) 946-6033 or e-mail tomlinvm@westminster.edu for more information.

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