Washington State University College of Nursing honors student Cadence McLin earned top recognition at the Showcase for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (SURCA) 2026, receiving a Crimson Award for her honors poster presentation—one of the highest honors given at the event.
Held March 23, 2026, SURCA brought together around 200 undergraduate students presenting faculty-mentored research across disciplines. McLin’s project stood out among a competitive field, earning one of just three Crimson Awards in her category.
Her research focuses on improving care for newborns exposed to substances before birth who experience withdrawal symptoms, a condition known as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). These infants often face challenges in the first weeks of life as their bodies adjust after birth.
McLin’s study examines a newer care approach called the Eat-Sleep-Console (ESC) protocol, which focuses on how well infants can eat, sleep, and be comforted rather than relying only on symptom scoring. The goal is to improve overall outcomes for infants and families while supporting stronger parent-infant bonding.
The research compares the ESC approach to the traditional Finnegan scoring system, which has long been used to assess withdrawal symptoms. Early findings suggest the ESC model may lead to better outcomes for infants and could support wider adoption in hospitals.
The project also highlights a key gap in care for rural communities. McLin’s work points toward expanding resources so rural hospitals can treat infants locally, reducing the need for transfers to larger urban facilities.
McLin completed the project under the guidance of Theresa Bowden, MSN-Ed, DNP ‘25, RN, assistant teaching professor at Washington State University College of Nursing, whose mentorship supported the development and presentation of the research.
Cadence represented the College of Nursing exceptionally well. This recognition reflects the strength of her work and the impact of undergraduate research.
Tiffanie Rampley, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, Interim Foundational Practice Department Chair.
McLin’s achievement reflects the role of undergraduate research in preparing future nurses to apply evidence-based practice and improve patient care outcomes.
About SURCA
The Showcase for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (SURCA) is an annual Washington State University event that highlights student-led research, scholarship, and creative work across disciplines. Open to undergraduates from all majors, SURCA features faculty-mentored projects presented in multiple categories and evaluated by judges using a standardized rubric. The event provides students with an opportunity to share original work, strengthen communication skills, and engage with peers, faculty, and the public. It concludes with an awards ceremony recognizing top presentations, including Crimson Awards for outstanding work.
