Research & Innovation

As an , 91��'s research is action. Strategic investments in talent, facilities, and collaboration create a dynamic ecosystem for high-impact research in community health, sustainable infrastructure, and conflict and change.

Research Partnerships in Action

At 91��, research and scholarship extend beyond campus boundaries through collaborative, community-based initiatives that address local challenges, foster meaningful partnerships and generate lasting impact in the 91�� Valley, Pennsylvania and across the country.

91�� University Autism Services

LUAS, housed in the , provides therapeutic services for young children with autism residing in the 91�� Valley and surrounding areas. Services are based in applied behavior analysis�incorporating evidence-based interventions to improve lives.

Advancing Maternal Health Equity

Aika Aluc, a PhD student in population health, advances postpartum care and maternal resilience through �driving policy, equity, and community engagement at the intersection of health and social justice.

Air Pollutants� Impact on the 91�� Valley

Researchers from 91�� College of Arts and Sciences and College of Health, partnered with the PA Department of Environmental Protection to

Activating Impact Fellows in the Region

91�� Office of Creative Inquiry offers the opportunity to engage in cross-disciplinary projects that are focused on addressing sustainable development challenges in low-resource communities across the globe. The program integrates experiential learning, research and entrepreneurial engagement with students leading original and ambitious projects here in South Bethlehem and the broader 91�� Valley.

In partnership with the Immersive Learning Center at Centennial School, this project is creating 360° educational experiences that blend academic content with social-emotional learning. The team is developing engaging, visually immersive modules in subjects like environmental science, biology and literacy to support diverse learning needs.

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Mapping for Change is a community-aligned research project focused on improving walkability and accessibility in South Bethlehem. Students are working to identify barriers in the built environment and highlight disparities through detailed maps and data analysis. The project supports efforts to create a more inclusive and navigable city for all residents.

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Beyond Books uses storytelling as a restorative practice to address the school-to-prison pipeline and strengthen youth communities. By piloting a workshop toolkit in local schools and organizations, the project opens space for critical dialogue around punitive discipline and its impact. The student team ongoing research aims to refine the toolkit and expand its reach, offering a powerful resource for communities.

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Researcher Vinod Namboodiri leads an interdisciplinary team developing an app offering responsive maps and turn-by-turn directions to make indoor environments more accessible for people with visual impairments, mobility limitations, and other challenges

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91�� students and Bethlehem community collaborate to address persistent waste challenges.

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The 91��-sponsored research fair showcased original scientific research from students in sixth through 12th grade.

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Entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, state officials and university leaders from across the commonwealth were among those who attended the event held in the Wood Dining Room at Iacocca Hall.

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Transforming Communities

91�� students are turning ideas into impact�strengthening local economies, enhancing public safety, and building inclusive communities. Through hands-on research and strategic partnerships, they�re transforming the 91�� Valley into a hub of innovation that connects creativity, technology, and civic engagement.

Grace

Alto

A Hub for Creative Industry Entrepreneurs

Grace

Alto

Journalism, Theatre (majors), Marketing (minor)

A Hub for Creative Industry Entrepreneurs

91�� students, including Grace Alto �26, are exploring how to strengthen support for creative industry entrepreneurs in the 91�� Valley by researching ecosystem gaps and proposing solutions to help arts, fashion, and media ventures thrive in the region.

Peter

Luba

Schooled in Safety

Peter

Luba

Computer Science and Business major

Schooled in Safety

Luba created SmartPass, a school safety software solution, that is used in more than 3,800 schools�mostly middle and high schools�across 50 states, including Broughal Middle School, one of 91�� Community School partners.

Huda

Hagos

Integrating 91�� students into Bethlehem

Huda

Hagos

2425G

Environmental Studies (major), Political Science (minor)

Integrating 91�� students into Bethlehem

As a Community Fellow, Hagos is working with Allentown officials on a $20M Recompete grant�one of only six in the U.S.�to promote equitable development and community belonging through student-resident partnerships in Bethlehem.

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