HARRISBURG, PA — Harrisburg University of Science & Technology’s (HU) Bachelor of Science in Forensics program was recently represented at the Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists (NEAFS) Annual Meeting in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Faculty members Dr. Jill Yeakel and Carrie Wise attended, alongside three Forensics students – Oliver Fogarty-Harnish, Gianina Galati, and Kelsey Wardell – who had the opportunity to engage with professionals and learn from leading experts in the field.
The NEAFS Annual Meeting is a key event in the forensic science community, offering invaluable opportunities for skill development, networking, and professional growth. “Students are able to stay current with trends in the field and connect with local experts,” said Dr. Yeakel, Forensics Program Lead at Harrisburg University.
Oliver Fogarty-Harnish ‘26 was selected to present his research titled, “Ethanol Depletion Dynamics in Non-Recirculating System Breath Alcohol Simulators.” His study, conducted in collaboration with Guth Laboratories, Inc., examines how ethanol concentration in breath alcohol simulators depletes over time. This information directly impacts the accuracy and efficiency of breath alcohol testing instruments.
“The research that Oliver has completed in collaboration with Guth Laboratories not only provides insight into the current performance of breath alcohol simulators (the first update since 2000) but also allows users to know how long their solutions will produce accurate results before needing to replace it,” Dr. Yeakel explained. “This allows the user to decrease waste and increase cost-effectiveness.
Oliver will continue to advance his work by investigating the depletion rate of ethanol in tandem simulators. This will help scientists better understand the mechanism behind the depletion and improve cost-effectiveness for users.
In addition to his presentation, Oliver’s research has been accepted for publication as a technical note in the March 2026 issue of the Journal of Forensic Sciences, a major achievement for an undergraduate researcher.
The Forensics program at HU continues to emphasize hands-on learning and professional collaboration, preparing students for meaningful contributions to the forensic science community. “There are several meaningful benefits for our students who participate in research in the field of forensics, especially prior to graduation,” said Dr. Yeakel. “Conducting research requires students to apply scientific methods and critical thinking to real-world problems, explain complex ideas clearly, collaborate with professionals in the field, and strengthens their resume when applying to careers in the field or graduate schools.”
Learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Forensics program at Harrisburg University or start a conversation with the Admissions Team today.
ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University was recently recognized by US News & World Report as one of the nation’s most innovative colleges. HU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and is a private, nonprofit university offering bachelor’s and graduate degree programs in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, nursing, and other health science fields. For additional information about HU’s affordable, demand-driven undergraduate and graduate programs, please call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay updated by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
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