Dr. Lisa Ellis, a Professor of Biology in the College of Science & Engineering at Houston Christian University and three members of HCU’s TriBeta Chapter, represented the University at the 2026 Beta Beta Beta National Convention in Tallahassee, Florida, this summer. The convention provided students with opportunities to present their research, connect with fellow biology scholars and celebrate undergraduate scholarship.
“Although our TriBeta chapter has routinely represented HCU well at the South Central Regional Convention each year, it was great to have HCU students attend the National Convention for the first time, present their research and represent HCU with excellence,” Dr. Ellis said.
Martin Navarro Ballagan earned second place for his research poster presentation, while Sophia Andrade received an honorable mention. Collin Posadas also presented a research poster, showcasing HCU’s undergraduate research. The university’s Iota Omicron chapter earned first place for its Chapter History E-Book, recognizing the contributions of Abigail Inocian and Ray Cagumbay.
In addition to presenting their research, HCU students went on field trips throughout the Tallahassee area and learned about research conducted by fellow undergraduates from across the country during the conference.
“The best time was had at the awards ceremony,” said Dr. Ellis. “Faculty judges were highly complimentary of their research presentations, which culminated in several awards for our chapter. To God be the glory!”
Congratulations to HCU’s TriBeta students and the Iota Omicron chapter on these accomplishments and for representing Houston Christian University with excellence on the national stage.