Undergraduate researchers from schools across Georgia presented their research to state legislators and constituents on February 17, 2026. Senior Katy Beth Bedingfield (RU-2026) represented Reinhardt University at the Posters at the Capitol annual event in Atlanta.
As a psychology major, she holds an interest in working as a counselor or trauma therapist. Bedingfield’s research delved into the effects of hormonal contraceptives that she found most people aren’t aware of, including metabolic issues like diabetes. She converted her in-depth research into an understandable explanation that women can use to make informed decisions.
“The day was incredibly rewarding,” Bedingfield shared. “I had the chance to speak directly with state officials and representatives about my research, explain its significance, and answer questions about the findings. These conversations were both encouraging and insightful. I also enjoyed discussing research with other undergraduates, learning about their projects, sharing ideas and perspectives, and seeing the broader impact of undergraduate research.”
Reinhardt Assistant Professor of Psychology and Assistant Director of Undergraduate Research Christopher Robinson, Ph.D., mentored Bedingfield. He reacted, “Katy Beth has written multiple quality papers on important topics, given polished presentations. She is without a doubt one of the best students I have had in over two decades of my career.”
Bedingfield plans to present her research on campus at the Convocation of Artists and Scholars this April. “One of the things I love about Reinhardt and its psychology program is that I can do research that will help me in my future field, and I can take all of my research, papers, and statistics into graduate school.”
When Bedingfield graduates this May, she becomes the third generation in her family to receive a degree at Reinhardt. Her mother, Michele Bedingfield (RU-1993), earned a degree in criminal justice and runs a domestic violence shelter in LaGrange, Georgia, where Katy Beth works during school breaks. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal appointed Michele to serve on the Georgia Commission on Family Violence, advocating for policies and education. On a similar path, Katy Beth finds fulfillment working at Reinhardt’s Office of Prevention and Awareness, and through an internship at Kennesaw State University’s Sexual Assault and Forensic Evaluation Center.
Katy Beth’s great uncle, Cash Striplin (RU-1971), also attended Reinhardt, and they consistently swap stories about life on campus. Striplin is a faithful advocate for student scholarships, and an encouraging voice in supporting Reinhardt’s legacy and the next generation. Katy Beth credits her scholarships, including one from the Henritze Golf Classic, as enabling her to attend Reinhardt — her first choice for college.
As she prepares for commencement, Katy Beth Bedingfield carries forward a proud Reinhardt family legacy — using research, advocacy, and compassion to empower women and strengthen communities across Georgia.
– By Suzy Alstrin
