Bethany College students recently showcased their research excellence at the Beta Beta Beta (Tri Beta) Northeast-3 Regional Conference, marking the College’s first participation in the event in more than a decade. Competing alongside students from larger institutions with extensive research resources, Bethany students were highlighted by a standout performance that earned top recognition in a poster session and advanced one student to the national stage.
“This was my first conference, and it was such a wonderful experience in so many ways,” said Leah Dunmire ‘27, Bethany College Tri Beta chapter president. “Getting to bond with my fellow BBB (Beta Beta Beta) members and supporting each other as we presented our research was great. And after presenting my own research there, I feel much more confident in my own abilities too! I also really enjoyed learning about the research of students from other schools.”
Representing Bethany, Dunmire, Annabella “Anna” Kovach, Natalie DuShole, Gray Wallace, Aeriale Knopsider, Mallory Peyton, Joseph Koval, and Alena Arbogast. Their participation marked a significant return to regional competition and affirmed the continued growth of Bethany’s biology program.
Among the group, Kovach ’26, Bethany College Tri Beta chapter secretary, earned first place in her poster presentation session, a distinction that advances her to the 2026 Tri Beta National Convention at Florida State University. Kovach’s award also includes a $900 travel grant, recognizing both the quality and impact of her research.
“The regional conference was a great opportunity to learn about biological research outside of my own field and to discuss my research with ecologists,” said Kovach.
Kovach’s project focused on the eastern hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis), a large, fully aquatic salamander experiencing population decline throughout Appalachia. Using environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling, her research examined whether tributaries of a northern West Virginia stream support hellbender populations. Her findings confirmed the species’ presence in the main waterway but not in surrounding tributaries, offering important insight into habitat limitations and conservation needs. Conducted under the guidance of Dr. Kathy Baker-Brosh, assistant professor of Biology, and support from Tri Beta Advisor and Assistant Professor of Biology, Derek Warren, the project highlights Bethany’s commitment to meaningful, field-based scientific research.
By earning first place at the regional level, Kovach now joins a select group of students from across the region who will present at the national conference in late May. There, she will share her research with peers and faculty from across the country while participating in field-based learning experiences focused on Florida’s diverse ecosystems.
Tri Beta is a national biological honor society dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of biological study through scientific research. Founded in 1922, the organization has welcomed more than 300,000 members and supports student scholarship through regional and national conferences each year. Bethany College’s Alpha Phi, Tri Beta chapter, established in 1955, is housed within the Bethany Biology Society and continues to foster student engagement in the biological sciences.
The Northeast-3 Regional Conference brings together undergraduate researchers from institutions across WV to Rochester, NY. Students present original research through oral and poster presentations, gaining valuable experience while connecting with peers and faculty from across the region.
Bethany’s strong showing at the Tri Beta Regional Conference reflects the College’s dedication to prepare students to contribute meaningfully to their fields.