CTL Day April 22
Catalyst Day — held each fall and spring — is designed to showcase Ripon College’s Catalyst curriculum and celebrate the achievements of the students who are completing the junior-level collaborative capstone. Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to watch teams of students present problem solving projects that tackle worldwide issues.
The Challenges
Catalyst 300 students are tasked with developing solutions to prominent real-world issues. Learn more about the challenges on the Catalyst Curriculum page.
Spring 2026 Catalyst Day
9:45 – 2:30 coffee and cookies in Great Hall
Morning Sessions: 10 – 11:30 am
Great Hall
Moderator: Timothy Reed
| 10 - 10:30 am | |
|---|---|
| Group 4: | Paige Biever, Antonio DeBartolo, Isabella DeMeuse, Peyton Moldenhauer, Laura Zittlow |
| Title: | HealthyHounds: Preventing and Combating Dog Obesity in Wisconsin |
| Short Abstract: | Dog obesity is a decades-old epidemic across the nation, affecting more than one-third of all dogs. Given Wisconsin has the third-highest rate in the country, we propose addressing Wisconsin's dog obesity using HealthyHounds, an educational and tracking app. |
| 10:30 - 11 am | |
|---|---|
| Group 2: | Matthew Buchholz, Kayden Hardy, Caeden Holly, Landon Selner |
| Title: | Flammable Remodeling: Redesigning Propane Distribution at the Janesville Terminal |
| Short Abstract: | For several years, Wisconsin has had issues with propane distribution for residential heating during peak winter months due to truck congestion at terminals. To combat this issue, we are proposing a redesign of Janesville’s propane terminal layout with overflow lanes that will allow for a decrease in the congestion. |
| 11 - 11:30 am | |
|---|---|
| Group 12: | Jose Alvarez, Chloe Daly, Noah Hanson, Alli Larsen, Lucas Meredith |
| Title: | Cows, Cheddar, and Computing: How Wisconsin's Dairy Industry Can Help Power the Next Generation of Data Centers |
| Short Abstract: | As data centers expand across Wisconsin, they are placing increasing strain on the power grid. Our proposal offers a homegrown Wisconsin solution by using dairy waste to help power these facilities. This approach could reduce grid pressure, repurpose agricultural waste, and ensure that technological growth gives something back to local communities. |
Bear Auditorium
Moderator: Mary Unger
| 10 - 10:30 am | |
|---|---|
| Group 10: | Madylyn Woyak, Liv Nisbet, Roman Harris, Zane Vetter, Evan Nehring |
| Title: | Northeast Countryside Crisis: Tackling Illicit Substance Use with 4-H Community Partnerships and Local Heat Maps |
| Short Abstract: | Northeast Wisconsin has been experiencing a growing problem with illicit substance use, with its rural geography contributing to fractured recovery networks. Using the UW-Extension’s 4-H program and a heat map, this project identifies which areas need the most attention and how best to respond to each county's needs. |
| 10:30 - 11 am | |
|---|---|
| Group 6: | Royce Helper, Diallo Dubois, Seth Bunders, Adam Seeber |
| Title: | Keeping Wisconsin’s Lights Bright: Southeastern Wisconsin's Datacenter Density and Power Demand |
| Short Abstract: | Southeastern Wisconsin is experiencing rapid growth in datacenter development, creating concentrated pressure on local power systems, water resources, and community infrastructure. We propose legislation that will have data centers work within communities to enhance the affordability and safety of the residents. |
| 11 - 11:30 am | |
|---|---|
| Group 9: | Zoe Stephanie, Ella Clark, Avery Jobelius, Desean Smith |
| Title: | Messy Forests, Mighty Martens: An Attempt to Save the Pine Marten Through Preserving the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest |
| Short Abstract: | In Wisconsin’s own Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a small mammal known as the pine marten is becoming extinct. The core threat to their species is lumber companies skirting legalities about logging, leading to consistent practices of clearcutting. Using a four-pronged strategy, the public can be educated on the issue, stronger legislation can be implemented, and action through advocacy and reforestation programs can be taken to recreate the necessary conditions for pine martens to thrive. |
LUNCH
11:30 am – 1 pm
Lunch in Commons
Afternoon Sessions: 1 – 2:30 pm
Great Hall
Moderator: Kristine Kovack-Lesh
| 1 - 1:30 pm | |
|---|---|
| Group 7: | Ivan Barrientos, Emily Kasuboski, Deven Soerens, Michael Sheely, Michaela Riege |
| Title: | Two Faced: The Problems of Using AI Chatbots as a Therapist |
| Short Abstract: | This project examines the risks and benefits of using chatbots as substitutes for professional therapy. We argue that replacing therapists is not applicable, because chatbots lack the ability to analyze body language, assess alarming vocabulary, and provide personalized care. To address this, we propose developing a monitored, AI-assisted support platform that connects users to human professionals, with an accessible dispatch call center, and implementing educational seminars to promote responsible AI use among youth. |
| 1:30 - 2 pm | |
|---|---|
| Group 1: | Kyra Bisarek, CJ Brown, Donald Byrne, Hannah Dufek, Matthew Kelsh |
| Title: | Hog Wild: A Multi-Component Initiative to Combat Feral Hog Populations in Texas |
| Short Abstract: | In the state of Texas, citizens have been dealing with extensive damage to agricultural land, the environment, and their health due to rapidly increasing feral hog populations. We propose a multi-step initiative that works to control rising populations and integrate sustainable practices that continue to combat the invasive species. |
| 2 - 2:30 pm | |
|---|---|
| Group 5: | Aidan Mellesmoen, Corey Mooney, Drew Stieglitz, Jake Thomsen |
| Title: | WolfBane: A Conservation-Friendly AI Station to Combat Cattle Depredation by Wolves |
| Short Abstract: | In the Upper Midwest, wolf-related cattle depredation leads to significant financial and emotional losses, and these impacts are expected to grow as wolf populations increase. We propose an AI-based detection and deterrence system to reduce cattle losses while supporting the preservation of the wolf population. |
Bear Auditorium
Moderator: Tobin Shucha
| 1 - 1:30 pm | |
|---|---|
| Group 11: | Ben Crock, David Kleier, Chase Nelson, Eduardo Zermeno |
| Title: | Cooling the Cloud: Protecting Wisconsin’s Vulnerable Resources with Lake Michigan for Data Centers |
| Short Abstract: | Wisconsin, especially Racine County in the southern part of the state, is experiencing a boom in data center construction that is placing growing demands on electricity and water resources. To help reduce these pressures, we propose using Lake Michigan for natural cooling and renewable energy to lower the power requirements of data centers. |
| 1:30 - 2 pm | |
|---|---|
| Group 8: | Michael Asman, Ashlynn Erickson, Anthony Fabricino, Hailee Holberg, Justine Orvik |
| Title: | Zebra & Quagga Mussels: The Unseen Threats of Lake Michigan |
| Short Abstract: | Lake Michigan has an uncontrolled population of zebra mussels that are invasive to the Great Lakes region. To mitigate this problem, with community-driven support, we have created a versatile solution to utilize the invasive mussels and to educate the general public. |
| 2 - 2:30 pm | |
|---|---|
| Group 3: | Brian Reed, Isaac Knoll, Owen Gerhardt, Jahquan Hamilton, Treston Dekker |
| Title: | “Trumind”: Combatting Social Media Misinformation about Nutrition using Artificial Intelligence |
| Short Abstract: | This project filters short-form social media content about nutrition through an AI-based user interface which draws from credible sources (related databases) to provide users with real-time cross-referenced feedback. |