topic
table of contents
editor-in-chief Abeke Teyibo teyiboabeke@gwmail.gwu.edu
assistant editor 03
editors’ note
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poem
Marvin Bell mailto:Bellm@gwmail.gwu.edu
copy editor
Leslie Ogu leslie0523@gwmail.gwu.edu Victoria Akosile vakosile@gwmail.gwu.edu Hazel Cortez hcortez@gwmail.gwu.edu
TIMELINE
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feature FINDING LOVE IN THE WORKPLACE WE ARE MORE THAN OUR COLORS MAYBE I WANT TO GO ABROAD... EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED: GETTING YOUR FIRST APARTMENT AFTER COLLEGE
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sports superlatives SUPERLATIVES
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Angel Veliz sdotfly@gmail.com | www.sdotfly.com
photography
YEAR OF THE G.O.A.T.
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layout
on campus A WOMAN WITH A VOICE IS BY DEFINITION, A STRONG WOMAN TOP SENIORS
Devan Cole devancole6@gwmail.gwu.edu Lauryn Hill lhill4@gwmail.gwu.edu Sydney Lawson sydneynlawson@gwmail.gwu.edu
promotional team Fanta Kabia fkabia@gwu.edu Abenaa Nuamah sabenaa@gwu.edu
BHC: THE FINAL FINALE BLURBS MR.T LETTER
business manager
20 THINGS TO DO IN YOUR 20S
Shynelle Kissi shynelle_k@gwmail.gwu.edu
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faculty advisor Professor Robin Marcus
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social media
email | thenewace@gmail.com facebook | theacemagazine twitter | theacemag instagram | theacestagram
The Ace Magazine is funded in part by a generous grant from Generation Progress, a national organization that works with and for young people to promote progressive solutions to key political and social challenges.
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We’re looking for new staff!
Email us personally or at thenewace@ gmail.com if you’re interested in writing, reporting, photography, design, publication, or simply in helping out the premier publication of the multicultural community at GW!
editors’ notes This year has been a year of many memories. Whether it was having you as a mentor, listening to your stories, experiencing events with you, or watching your characters develop, this year’s class has been a changing factor at GW. Although everyone in your class has different dreams, each one of you consistently motivates and pushes each other to make sure that you live your dreams exactly how you imagined it. Remember those around you and stay in touch. You’ve laughed, cried, leaped, fallen, felt the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat; but this year, you stand tall, and more prepared for the world than ever. I hope that you look back and reflect on how far you have come. Whenever you want to be reminded of your voice, memories, and staff at GW, The ACE will be there. This last issue focuses on the growth of the senior class. People who have advised you, taught you, and motivated you during your four years of college have left you with strong words of encouragement. The pictures are relatable to the events that have happened during your GW college career, as well as the events that might happen in the future as you take a step into the real world. It was a pleasure seeing your class grow and I wish you all the best. Good luck in whatever the future holds. -Abeke Teyibo
The Ace Magazine Mission
The Ace Magazine connects the multicultural community to the university at-large with contributions from student writers and faculty members. Since 2008, The Ace has sparked discussion between campus groups furthering our belief that “we all have similar issues no matter our color.”
poem
TIMELINE By Chioma Aneke
The day you were born, you probably didn’t know who George Washington was… All you knew was your mama-and that was just because… The day you first started school, you probably didn’t know who was in your class… All you knew was that you had to pass. The day you figured out what you wanted to be when you grew up, did you really know why? All you knew was that you wanted to learn more and set the bar high. The day you came to GW, you probably didn’t know where you would fit… All you knew was that- your future would be lit. The day you registered for each semester, you probably didn’t think you’d get a class… All you knew was that sooner or later, you would finesse that G-PAC. The day you finished your last final exam for the semester, you probably didn’t think “Man, I’m ready to go back to GDub!” Said no one. Ever. All you knew was that The day you realize you will leave this campus, you probably didn’t think “I’m gonna miss this place,” But just know that your squad is the tightest, MSSC is the nicest, Grades not the highest, The future is the brightest, The feat not divided, The love is united, And you better thank God that you had it! What would you do without it? The day you realize this was your last semester, you probably didn’t think about how you glowed since your freshman year, All you knew was that you would be another blessing 2016 produced. And I hope that you know, that it’s now time to show 2016 what you can do.
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FINDING LOVE IN THE WORKPLACE By Marvin Bell
reporting workplace romance are younger than forty years old, thirty (30) percent are specifically in their 30s, thirty-one (31) percent are in their 20s, and one (1) percent are under 20 years old. Chances are, that guy or gal in HR who has been eyeing you is interested. Go talk to them.
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dmit it – you’re having a hard time finding that special someone. You’ve ran out of creative usernames for your eight Tinder accounts; you’ve had it with OkCupid bombarding your inbox with creeps; your audition for The Bachelor and The Bachelorette did not go as well as you would have liked; and, contrary to what Yo Gotti has the world believing, nothing is going down in You should make an your DMs. It’s okay – just breathe. Everything is going active effort to get to be all right. You still have to know your co- one great option left: your workplace. I know many of workers regardless of you are saying, “I don’t want whether or not you’re to date someone I work with!” I get it; it can be hard trying to start an and downright annoying to office romance. work with someone you’re romantically involved with. While your boss will have you believe that you and your co-workers ought to keep business and love separate, your heart and libido might be telling you otherwise. If you are looking to find love in the workplace, here are some tips to help you out:
Spend time with your co-workers. You should make an active effort to get to know your co-workers regardless of whether or not you’re trying to start an office romance. It’s simple etiquette, and it’ll help you have better office relationships, platonic or intimate. But if you are not bothered by the prospect of finding love in your workplace, it does not hurt to go out for drinks or a quick meal with a coworker or two.
-------------- 4 -------------Know what you are looking for and make your expectations clear. Are you looking to be your co-worker’s hook-up partner? Are you looking for something long-term? What are the most important aspects that you want in your partner? Asking yourself these questions can help make the search much easier. However, it’s okay for your list of questions to be vague. It’s okay to be uncertain about what you want. If you can though, try to abstain from hooking-up with coworkers - that can make things tense and, for the lack of a better word, awkward.
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Be positive. It might be a scary reality when you realize that you do not have anything in common with your coworkers, but know that work is only one facet of your life and that there are countless other venues through which you can find your special someone. Try your best to remain optimistic.
-------------- 1 -------------- -------------- 6 -------------Check with Human Resources (HR) first. Make sure that your office does not have any policies that forbid workplace relationships. Maintaining your job is important. Keep it.
-------------- 2 -------------Befriend co-workers in your age group, even if you all might not be in the same department. As it turns out, most employees who report office romances are in the earliest stages of their career. It’s not a secret that younger workers are disproportionately single, and are actively looking to meet other like-minded individuals. As Glassdoor reports, nearly two-thirds (63 percent) of employees
Remain true to yourself. You are amazing and have so much to offer, but not everyone you are interested in will realize this. Remember, if someone is not mutually interested in you that it is not a reflection of you. Always stay true to who you are. Love does not hurt. Love does not offend. Love does not ask you to change who you are. Love loves you for who you are. Good luck!
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WE ARE MORE THAN OUR COLORS By Cherise Hall
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organizations means being apart of an extended family that not only continues to look out for one another during college, but also continues this process in the real world as well. You can only get what you put in. If you devote a large amount of your time to the organization, your reward of joining greek life will be in abundance.
We have parties, we step, and we stroll, but that is not all we are about. We are scholars, we serve our communities, we fight against injustices, and we uphold the standards of our organizations. These things do not stop once it is time to graduate. Joining these
Martin Roache, a brother of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. wrote, “Shame on a Brother who is a member, but not active and does not realize what’s at stake. For when too many Brothers lean on the shield, the shield will eventually break.” These words can apply to each organization. The work that you put in during your undergraduate career in Greekdom does not have to stop there. Join a graduate chapter, stay financially active, and continue the legacy that your founders unfolded when your organization was founded. Never forget why you joined, and that same reason should carry you through life just as it carried you through your process. Congratulations to the Greek Frats and Sorors of 2016!
s a member of a Divine 9, or even a Multicultural Organization here at GW, it is important to recognize where we stand in this community. We are on a campus where it is crucial that we unify not only with our distinct organizations, but also amongst each other. Once we walk around repping the letters and colors of these illustrious groups, we represent the dreams of our founders, and take on the responsibility of upholding the principles that they were founded on. There is so much that these groups of distinguished men and women can do for us, but it is necessary that we reflect on what we bring to these organizations as well. Your letters and your colors should not make or break you; they should be an extension of who you are.
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MAYBE I WANT TO GO ABROAD... By Genevieve Montinar
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inding a job in America can be challenging! In America, you are limited by your skill level and it is getting to the point where people can not find accessible jobs without either having their Master’s Degree or a PhD. From the perspective of a college student, it is understandable that the cost of furthering one’s education can be a deterrent, but there are endless opportunities to rectify the situation of job hunting. What about living abroad? Living abroad can seem intimidating, but the salaries do not lie. Get more for your major, explore your possibilities, take on a new language and travel the world. With leading politicians, such as Donald Trump, and the unjust use of racial disparities for multicultural individuals in the workforce, America is losing its credibility as being the best country for job accessibility.. In some cases, America is the best option for your major, but in other instances, another country might be more beneficial for you. Below are some salary comparisons from some of the leading cities per country.
Bachelor of Fine Arts
America (New York City) = $57,488
Adelaide, South Australia = AU$88,000~ USD $66,779
New York City is known for being home to many aspiring artists, but maybe that should change. Adelaide, the fifth-most populous city in Australia, is known for its celebration of the arts and its annual festivals. Your salary could be nearly $10,000 higher if you move to this city.
Bachelor of Science in Engineering
Bachelor in Business Administration
America (Houston, TX) = $65,687
Tokyo = ¥9,500,000 ~ USD $87,997
You can make over $20,000 more if you work in Tokyo rather than the U.S. as a business administration major. Although the economy in Japan has been characterized as “stagnant,” there are still opportunities to work in the business sector and be successful.
America (Chicago, IL) = $82,182
Oslo, Norway= $93,000
You can make over $10,000 more per year if you are living in Norway’s capital than you would in the city of Chicago! Expand your horizons and enjoy time abroad!
Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
America (Boston, MA) = $51,204 America (D.C.) = $58,593
London, U.K. = 31, 500 euros ~ USD $35,924
D.C. is considered one of the biggest political hubs in the world. The average salary a political science major makes in the U.S. capital is about $22,000 more that what you could make in London over the course of a year.
Toronto, Ontario = CAD$70,000 ~ USD$54,288
You have the international relations degree and you want to use it to its full potential. Staying in the U.S. might not be your best option salary-wise. Now you have the choice of moving to our neighbors up North, because with this degree, you will make $3,000 more by living in Toronto. *Salaries are on a yearly scale and data was obtained through PayScale.
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EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED: GETTING YOUR FIRST APARTMENT AFTER COLLEGE By Maxwell Young
S
ome of us go to him as a resource and others go to him just to chat. Whatever your reason, George Rice has been that familiar face to help you succeed as a black individual at GW. Before you all put away your notebooks for good, I sat down with George to talk about apartment hunting. First jobs in new cities can be a daunting experience, but so can figuring out where to live and who to live with. Let the man who wears many caps lend a helping hand.
temporarily because he was transitioning looking for another job. He lived with me for about three months. MY: What would you say if the apartment you wanted was a little bit too expensive? How would you negotiate terms? GR: Well, I would let ‘em know how much I didn’t get paid. However, where I moved it was perfect for how much money I made, and plus the beautiful thing was I could walk to work. I actually should’ve walked to work more.
Maxwell Young: When did you move into your first apartment?
MY: What were you looking for in the neighborhood?
George Rice: Wow. A year after I graduated.
GR: Being close to work was extremely important. I mean who knew I’d be that close. I knew the area of town that I wanted to live in, preferably. I knew I didn’t want to live in the suburbs, so I stayed in the city. Matter of fact, I didn’t live in the suburbs until I moved to DC.
MY: And that was just circumstance? GR: I agreed to move home for a year with my parents. Saved a lot of money. I still had to pay rent but it wasn’t like rent rent. I’m from Toledo and you’re from Pittsburgh, so you know it’s not that much. I was paying a couple hundred bucks a month to cover the phone bill and stuff like that. About a year after that, I moved into my first place. So, I bit the bullet and moved back home. I know that’s taboo for most people.
MY: If you could pick one funny story during your time in that apartment, what would it be? GR: There was a time when I was playing ball and I fractured my foot. I didn’t think it was that bad, but I ended up having to go to the emergency room. So, it was the middle of the night and my foot was swollen. Literally where I lived it wasn’t necessarily a super super safe neighborhood, but it was safe enough for a guy who was single. So, at 2:30, 3:00 in the morning, I literally crawled out of my apartment to my car. And at the time, I had a five-speed, so I drove myself to the ER. It was one of the most humbling experiences. I was literally crawling. If somebody just decided they were gonna rob me they’da got me; I couldn’t chase them. There was a huge set of stairs at my house that I had to crawl backwards down. I had to crawl out of my apartment, lock the door on my knees, crawl out and crawl to my car. One of the lowest moments of my life. I could tell you about the legendary cookouts, but that might not be suitable for the readers.
MY: What were you doing while you were home? GR: I was teaching middle school math and science. MY: What are three things everyone should have in an apartment when they move in? GR: You definitely need at least a bed. If you don’t have a couch don’t worry about it. Honestly, it was about a year or two before my place was fully furnished. Number two; always have eggs, milk and bread in your refrigerator… unless you’re a vegan, and non-perishables too. And I guess the third thing would be candles and a flashlight in case of a power-outage. You just never know. MY: Did you ever have a roommate? GR: Yes, he was actually my best friend. He moved in
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sports
THE YEAR OF THE G.O.A.T. By Leslie Ogu
F
rom President Barack Obama stepping down from office, to Kobe’s final game in the NBA, this year has really been one to remember in both good and bad ways. As these influential people have made their impacts in their different capacities, the time has come for them to bid farewell to their loyal followers and fans. Just as these two memorable icons have made their mark before closing the curtain on their careers, the same has been done by our very own basketball players here at GW. The first accomplishment came from the GW’s Men’s basketball team. For the first time in history, GW won its first postseason title when they defeated Valparaiso at Madison Square Garden 76-60 in the championship for the National Invitation Tournament! As if this feat wasn’t enough, they set a new record of wins, ending the season with 28 wins and 10 losses. The men’s team has really grown in strength, skill, and ability, and were able to win the chip to cap off the season. Congratulations on the well-deserved win! Accomplishments were not only seen on the men’s side, but the women’s as well.
J
onquel Jones (who we know as JJ), the 6’6” forward from the women’s team who also made history for being the very first woman at GW to be a first-round draft pick for the WNBA! Talk about power moves in the black community. JJ will be playing professionally for the Connecticut Sun next season. This has been a groundbreaking season for her as she led the nation in rebounding (14.6 rpg), and in the Atlantic 10, was ranked fourth in scoring (16.2 ppg) and second in blocks (3.3 bpg). Let’s not forget she still holds GW’s single-game and single-season rebounding records. To top it all off, she is a very humble individual who many people in the community look up to, and we all wish her the best next season! This has been quite a year to remember and we know that based on the achievements of the seniors from this year, they are destined for great things in the future. Best of luck to you all.
superlatives
Senior Superlatives BEST BODY
BIGGEST FLIRT
BEST WOES (GROUP)
BIGGEST HEART
BEST DANCER
BIGGEST PARTIER
BEST DRESSED
CLASS CLOWN
BEST HAIR
CLASS MOM/DAD
BEST SMILE
CUTEST COUPLE
BIGGEST BALLER
CLASS NERD
BIGGEST CASE OF SENIORITIS
MOST LIKELY TO HAVE THE KEY TO SUCCESS
JONATHAN NKANGABWA / KRISTEN BARNES
SETH ECKRICH / YESSENIA GONZALES
2LIT2LIVE / BBNT
ALEX RODGERS
VICTORIA WALLS
TYRELL CHARLES
NATHAN SPAINE / NANA AGYEMANG
BBNT / ADWOA ANNOR
SETH ECKRICH / BRIANA LUSTER
ADWOA ANNOR / JONATHAN NKANGABWA
TINA PIERRE / ELWOOD TAYLOR
LARRY NWANKWO & ADAMARA OKEKE
KOFI BUCKMAN / ARMANI YOUNG
OLUWATOSIN ADEWALE / TINA PIERRE
ERIKA VIDAL / EJ CAYEMITE
NATHAN SPAINE / NANA AGYEMANG
BIGGEST EGO
ERIC DARNELL / VERONICA GRAVES 10
superlatives
MOST LIKELY TO BE IN HELLWELL JONATHAN NKANGABWA / BRIANNE THOMPSON-MARTIN
MOST LIKELY TO BE ON SOCIAL MEDIA VERONICA GRAVES
MOST RANDOM SETH ECKRICH
MOST SOPHISTICATED FAITH ELIE
NEVER ON CAMPUS BRODY ADAMS / LINA IZZELDIN
MOST LIKELY TO BE SEEN SELFIE KING/QUEEN TOGETHER TYRELL CHARLES / TATUM BROOKS JONATHAN NKANGABWA & NATHAN SPAINE
SHADIEST
MOST LIKELY TO GET ERIC DARNELL / ERIKA VIDAL THROUGH LIFE WITHOUT DOING MUCH WORK WHAT EVER HAPPENED TYRELL CHARLES / JOY BULLOCK TO… QUINTON DAVIS / LINA IZZELDIN MOST LIKELY TO HAVE A TALK SHOW MOST LIKELY TO STAY IN ERIC DARNELL / ERIKA VIDAL FORMATION VICTORIA WALLS MOST LIKELY TO WORK AT GW MOST LIKELY TO BE BEST LEVI SELBY / BRIANA LUSTER FRIENDS WITH CARDI B TYRELL CHARLES / ARMANI YOUNG MOST OUTSPOKEN EMMA WAREUS
MOST POLITICALLY ACTIVE JEVIN HODGE
on campus
A WOMAN WITH A VOICE IS BY DEFINITION, A STRONG WOMAN
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By Abeke Teyibo
nspired to be a leading representation for those whose words are left unheard, Nana Agyemang effortlessly creates, defines, and distinguishes what it means to be a strong, black, and successful woman. This process started with her involvement as a student of the School of Media & Public Affairs Department, and continued on to be a leading force on GW’s campus as the EditorIn-Chief of the only magazine that publicizes multicultural news - The ACE Magazine. “My biggest accomplishment was being able to shine a light with the ACE Magazine. There is a cultural difference between GW’s publication and The ACE. Other publications on GW’s campus do not properly represent the multicultural community. It is an issue when we do not get our voices heard. The ACE brings light to our issues. That is why we also had Blacktivism. It was for everyone to understand The ACE, and understand the problems that we, as multicultural people, are facing in our lives,” states Agyemang. Agyemang not only participated in school activities because she enjoyed it, but also because she felt like it was necessary for the community at large. Coming to GWU as a student of color was not only challenging to her, but also a culture shock regarding the fact that many students in her department were not students of color. Getting nominated and winning the award for Top Journalist of her senior class was not only an accomplishment for herself, but also opened doors for multicultural journalists who think that they could never be recognized. “My dispute coming into GWU was that there were only 20 black students in my department. I was afraid to speak up. I felt like people in my class didn’t really care about what I had to say. I felt like, culturally wise, I could not find people that understood me for me. Getting nominated and winning the Top Journalist Award reminded me that I could do this. It reminded me that it is possible to achieve your dreams by working hard, but it also reminded me to not forget the people that help along the journey. Cheryl Thompson was my rock. She My biggest helped me stay strong in the program when I really wanted accomplishment to give up. Having encouraging was being able to people that worked at GWU and the Washington Post really shine a light with helped me stay strong,” says the ACE Magazine. Agyemang.
She stated, “I want to create some kind of journalist project that works for women in Africa. I want to be the voice for the voiceless. Africa is more than poverty, violence, and crime. There are doctors, engineers, and other fields. It is really important that we change the view that everyone thinks is ‘Africa’.”
There is a cultural difference between GW’s publication and The ACE.
Another crucial factor that she wanted to leave behind is that it is always important to continue your efforts as a writer. To Agyemang, being the voice for the unrepresented is powerful, and it shows that everyone’s voice and story matters; not just those who are deemed important in society.
Agyemang’s future is a highlight of what it means to be a sophisticated woman. Focus on your talent, benefit the community, and continue your projects after your years at GW are over. Becoming your own motivation is a blessing, but changing other’s lives in your field of work is deemed to be the best reward.
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on campus
TOP SENIORS Eric Darnell Most memorable moment at GW: Getting selected to present at the American Studies Yearly Conference in my senior year (last month, March). It was a very fulfilling and amazing experience.
Last words to the senior class: Your love is as bright as ever, and your impact will last forever. Keep reaching high even when you lose hope, because you are descendants of royalty and are destined for greatness. --------------------------------------------------
Joshua Nuñez Most memorable moment at GW: Working for the Colonial Inauguration program and DC Bound because it gave me the opportunity to stay in DC to explore the city and my university under a different light.
What would you change at GW? More social integration with different communities, such as between minority students and the white community. I feel it’s best to not only have one niche, but have a nice mix of people you can hang around. Last words to the senior class: You do what you want when you poppin’. --------------------------------------------------
Boluwatife Adetunji Most memorable moment at GW: When a man shared with us a poem that at first sounded like he was talking about a woman. He talked about how he loved her curves and the last line he said was, “And I love her two handle bars” as he glanced at his bike. My friend and I burst into laughter. What would you change at GW? Looking back, there is so much I wish I had done and it has taught me that moving forward, I want to live life to the fullest. Last words to the senior class: I pray that no matter what the future holds for us, no matter what life throws at us, that we continue to grow. I pray we stay unstoppable and I pray we fly. --------------------------------------------------
Adwoa Annor Most memorable moment at GW: It was when I was able to take a selfie with Tim Cook, the Commencement Speaker from last year.Meeting a very influential and important person was definitely my #OnlyAtGW moment. What would you change at GW? I would want to change the impact of the multicultural community in relation to the university’s policies. I would like to see a greater voice or platform given to those in such communities, which is why I am especially happy to see the formation of the Black Leadership Council.
What would you change at GW? I would change the allocation of funds and resources at GW to meet the needs of the student body, especially those who do not come from such privileged backgrounds and are deserving of the help. Last words to the senior class: Never stop seeking to grow and change. We are our own worst enemies and we can’t give up to our own self-doubt. --------------------------------------------------
Camille Meekins Most Memorable Moment at GW: This year’s BHC was my moment. I genuinely enjoyed and had amazing times at both Soul Revue and Finale. What would you change at GW? I honestly wouldn’t change anything. Every aspect of GW has in some way shaped my overall GW experience and I wouldn’t want to change that. Last words to senior class: I am leaving GW with not just friends, but brothers and sisters. Thank you to all of you for making my four years at GW the best four years of my life, and I can’t wait to see our GLO’ UP continue. --------------------------------------------------
Jevin Hodge Most Memorable Moment at GW: When Obama discussed his plans as president, I felt like he was really going to take action to address America’s issues. What would you change at GW? Addressing more students of color by hiring more faculty of color; whether staff or educational professionals.
on campus
Erika Vidal
Last words for senior class: Best way to be remembered is to never be forgotten. Make sure to lift others up with you. --------------------------------------------------
Most Memorable Moment at GW: The Inaugural ball. It was a chance for me to understand the weight of a black president being re-elected twice.
Nathan HastingsSpaine
What would you change at GW? I wish I could change the amount of resources the multicultural students have
Most Memorable Moment at GW: My first time getting on a plane was at GW. The business school sent me to Atlanta for the Undergraduate Leadership Business School Conference. I had a lot of firsts here at GW.
to work with. Last words for senior class: When I go out ot the workforce, I want there to be people that look like me and are successful. --------------------------------------------------
What would you change at GW? The school does not focus enough on diverse organizations at GW. They should help the multicultural community with more networking opportunities.
Steve Hamburgo Most Memorable Moment at GW: Studying abroad in Italy! It was my first time in Europe. It is so much different going somewhere on vacation and actually living there.
Last words for senior class: Do not get caught up in life and the rat race. Follow your dreams and go for what you want to accomplish. If you ever a millionaire holla at me! --------------------------------------------------
Jonathan Nkangabwa
What would you change at GW? The lack of inclusion on this campus with the majority students and the multicultural students.
Most Memorable Moment at GW: One of my most memorable moments was going to LA for my summer internship at USC.
Last words for senior class: We are straight chillen ! --------------------------------------------------
Levi Selby
What would you change at GW? To be honest, I don’t know if my experience at GW would have been better or worse if I were to change something about it.
Most Memorable Moment at GW: Once we found out that Obama remained our president, we ran down to the white house and I carried my friend , who had a broken foot,all the way to the white house and celebrated.
Last words for senior class: Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s always nice to switch things up and stop that plateau effect that may be hindering you from reaching your full potential. --------------------------------------------------
What would you change at GW? I want the black community to learn from my years mistake and past years. I want communication to increase and improve for the following years.
Yessenia Gonzalez Most Memorable Moment at GW: Freshman year when Obama got reelected and we all ran to the white house.
Last words for senior class: It has been a pleasure growing, learning, and living with everyone for the last 4 years.
What would you change at GW? The amount of Latino students on campus. The Socio- economic diversity is lacking as well. Last words for senior class: Stay ready so that you don’t have to get ready.
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on campus
BHC: THE FINAL FINALE By Victoria Akosile
The Class of 2016 has been here for four years, and gone through many different events. This year, many of them were instrumental in putting together this year’s BHC’s final event. Here’s how the class of 2016 stepped out, and showed that they came to slay.
Serving you all shades of melanin.
Kim K. and Ye vibe
s.
Formation on FLEEK
!
Money Team.
on campus
“Imma let you finish, but I have the best twist out of all time.”
Must be 6’0 to enter.
Devil in a red dress.
g nice.
Sugar, Spice, and everythin
TELY be Hide your sisters y’all, cause you could DEFINI two. or looking at a future brother-in-law
Suave. 16
on campus
BLURBS By Shynelle Kissi
Peter K
Erica Fraser
Congrats Colonials! Over the past four years we’ve been inspired by your stories, especially around the success you’ve had in and out of the classroom. Each of those experiences, along with the competencies you’ve gained in your academic program, have shaped your lives, making you stronger, more capable, caring and competent citizen leaders and members of our GW campus community. You’ll be missed Class of 2016. Stay in touch, keep Raising High the GW Buff and Blue, and make us proud!
“Everyday is a new adventure. You have to believe that or else life will overwhelm you. When you graduate you may feel disoriented because one of the things that has kept you grounded, school, is no longer part of your daily ritual. Finding your passion and your purpose will be a journey, and sometimes you may be confused. Pursue happiness and fulfillment in whatever you do, and when you find it, enjoy it. Stay lit. Congrats!”
Oshane Mcrae Professor Robin Marcus “Whenever you can, shake things up. You are not here long. Make a difference in somebody’s life.”
“Chase your dreams and be great – the world needs you to be. And always stay true to yourself.”
Dr. Bernard Demczuk Mike Martin (4-Ride)
“I’ve been with these seniors for four years and this batch is the best year group. I’ll miss y’all.”
“CONGRATULATIONS GW SENIORS! Congratulations ACE for another year of alternative thinking and writing about our Great American Journey toward a more perfect union. Thank you ACE and GW’s students of color for adding the good life and good spice to our campus. To paraphrase WEB DuBois, ‘Where would GW be without her colored people?’ As you go forth, go to Africa, to Haiti, to Jamaica, to Delhi, to Mumbai, to Managua and to Brixton first before graduate school or a job. Please take a gap year or two or three to meet the real world on its terms, not from a USA-Centric view. You will learn more about yourself and your country by leaving for a while. Know thy history. Know thyself. Congrats!”
Dr. Imani Cheers
“To the class of 2016, congrats!! I’ve had the pleasure of having many of you in my classes over the course of your collegiate career and I’m so proud of your accomplishments. As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, remember to trust yourselves, believe in your ability and don’t be afraid to take chances. You never know your limits until you push them!”
Rob Fantroy (4-Ride) “Dream, believe, do, repeat.”
on campus
MR. T LETTER faith. Read at least one of them each day until you die. You will be amazed by the way that a little daily thoughtfulness helps you live. Forgive easily and immediately. Hug often and always hold on a little too long for comfort. Work hard and practice whatever it is everyday. Live with optimism and eternal hope. Commit to the belief that the light of goodness and God lives inside every human being, and in every form of life. Walk gently upon the earth. Care deeply for those who have less. Defend those who cannot defend themselves. Put more into the crucible of life than you take out. Walk, each step, with a sense of power and purpose. Partner with someone, soon, and share your entire life with them. Thank God each and every day, and … for each and every breath you get. So here are my quotes. They are my gift to you. If you choose to accept them, please honor the spirit that lives within. QUOTE 1 - “When you plant lettuce, if it does not grow well, you don’t blame the lettuce. You look into reasons it is not doing well. It may need fertilizer, or more water, or less sun. You never blame the lettuce. However in education, we constantly blame children for disengagement. What about the schools?” Thich Nhat Hanh QUOTE 2 - “I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again.” - Quaker Proverb QUOTE 3- “The adventure of life is to learn. The purpose of life is to grow. The nature of life is to change. The challenge of life is to overcome. The essence of life is to care. The opportunity of life is to serve. The secret of life is to dare. The spice of life is to befriend. The beauty of life is to give.” -- William Arthur Ward QUOTE 4 - “The night is beautiful, So the faces of my people. The stars are beautiful, So the eyes of my people. Beautiful, also, is the sun. Beautiful, also, are the souls of my people.” Langston Hughes
Dear Seniors, Graduation from college is one of life’s most indescribable milestones. Your 20 plus years have a lot of … ”context,” including a lot of: physical and emotional growth; work to resolve internal and external challenges; finding your voice in your writing, your spoken word, your music, and your daily expression. Graduation, with all you have, and all that you are armed with so far, is really just the beginning of the first amazing and very important steps toward your longer life as an adult. You will soon learn that what you have now cannot compare to what you will gain should you choose to embrace your life with joy, passion, humility, selflessness, and enthusiasm. You get nothing from this life until you put something in, but the more you put in … oh my goodness, what a wonderful world this can be.
QUOTE 5- “Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful engines of success. When you do a thing, do it with all your might. Put your whole soul into it. Stamp it with your own personality. Be active, be energetic, be enthusiastic and faithful, and you will accomplish your object. Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson Strive to be as great as you can be. If life says differently, strive to be a man or woman of great value. I wish you all the very best and remember this one statement more than anything else: “I’ll leave the light on for you.” Sincerely, Michael “Papa T” Tapscott
So here is my advice to you. Find five good quotes from five great sources that reflect your identity, your passion, your humility, your interests, and your
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20 THINGS TO DO IN YOUR 20S [ ] Travel the world [ ] Go to Vegas [ ] Develop good saving habits [ ] Step out of your comfort zone [ ] Date someone who isn’t typically “your type” [ ] Meet new people [ ] F ind a hobby that you really enjoy [ ] Take a roadtrip [ ] Volunteer [ ] Go ca mping
[ ] Go to Coachella [ ] Get a random certification [ ] Become friends with your parents [ ] Crash an upscale event [ ] Drop a mixtape [ ] Strengthen Friendships [ ] Invest in experiences [ ] Learn a new skill [ ] Read more [ ] HAVE F UN
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! We support the academic, social, intellectual and spiritual growth of under-represented Undergraduate and Graduate students at The George Washington University by maintaining a community of men who will continuously foster brotherhood and function as a genuine support system for holistic growth and to ensure timely graduation. The Multicultural Business Student Association is an organization dedicated to raising awareness of all issues related to diversity and inclusion in the various arenas of business. We aim to equip our members with skills needed to be successful in their chosen business ventures and to create a forum to share concerns of the greater multicultural community. We focus on developing your personal brand regardless of your major. The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) is a council of national African American women's organizations and community-based sections with a mission to lead, develop, and advocate for women of African descent as they support their families and communities. NCNW fulfills this purpose through research, advocacy, and national and community-based services and programs on issues of health, education, and economic empowerment in the United States and Africa. With its 39 national affiliates and more than 240 sections, NCNW is an organization with an outreach to nearly four million women. The George Washington University Section's purpose is to propel the mission of NCNW within the GW community.
The National Society of Black Engineers strives to accomplish the following objectives for our organization: Stimulate and develop student interest in the various engineering disciplines, strive to increase the number of minority students studying engineering at both the undergraduate and graduate levels , encourage members to seek advanced degrees in engineering or related fields and to obtain professional engineering registrations, promote public awareness of engineering and the opportunities for Blacks and other minorities in that profession, function as a representative body on issues and developments that affect the careers of Black Engineers. The purpose of this organization is to bring awareness to the African dance culture, as well as the Caribbean dance culture. This is fostering a broad educational goal, because the audience will learn about the various dance techniques and attire used in creating the art. The social aim is to get the students more excited about these regions and to unite different countries and cultures. The group was founded because of the non-existence of official Afro-Caribbean dance teams in the George Washington University. We foster communication and cooperation at the George Washington University between students of different backgrounds utilizing education, African culture, and experience to transmit a positive message for the improvement and constructive development of Africa and consequently, the world.