Alexandra Protopopova, a behavioral analyst and assistant professor in companion animal science in Texas Tech's Department of Animal & Food Sciences, is featured this month in a new university initiative known as "Degrees of Impact." By presenting in-depth stories of research, faculty achievements and student accomplishments, Tech leaders hope to focus on the collective impact of the university.

"Our goal is to convey the many wonderful attributes of Texas Tech University in a consistent and coordinated manner," said Texas Tech President Lawrence Schovanec.

VIDEO: For an up-close review of Protopopova's research on upping dog adoption rates, click on her photo here at bottom of page

Protopopova is using science to figure out which behavioral traits in dogs are the ones most sought after by potential adopters. She then turns her findings into concrete work she does with shelters to train dogs to exhibit these traits when adopters show up.

Her hope is to take the current situation: overcrowded shelters which severely suppress dogs' best behaviors – and turn that into a situation where the dogs can show their true selves better, and therefore get adopted instead of euthanized. The work is ongoing, but she is encouraged that her efforts and those of her fellow researchers have forged a path to increasing adoptions across the board.

LDWW, a public relations firm and marketing agency based in Dallas, collaborated with the university to examine the proper channels of delivery for the Degrees of Impact effort, Schovanec said. "Texas Tech University has a strong national brand, and together we have all played a role in our successes," he said. "Our increased awareness as a national leading research university is supported and strengthened by our actions and how we present the institution to our peers and one another."

CONTACT: Alexandra Protopopova, Assistant Professor - Companion Animal Science, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University at (806) 834-2882 or a.protopopova@ttu.edu

1113NM17 / For more information on "Degrees of Impact" program, click here