NOVEMBER 2017
BLUE Crew now an official clubPAGE 12
Calendar of events*
November 2017 Sunday
monday
tuesday
*Dates subject to change.
wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4 AU Cougar Band POPS Concert 7 p.m.
5
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6
SSC Workshop 4:30-5 p.m. Men’s Night Health & Wellness Center 8-9 p.m.
13 SSC Workshop
4:30-5 p.m.
7
8
Wellness Wellness Screening Screening & Flu Shot Clinic & Flu Shot Clinic 7 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 7 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. SSC Workshop 8-9 p.m.
14 SSC Workshop 8-9 p.m.
20
• mbb 12 P.M.
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Low & Lower Blount Chapel 7 p.m.
10 Last day to apply for graduation
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22
“Doubt” 7 P.M. Pritchett Auditorium 23 24 25
• wbb 7:30 P.M.
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• wbb 7:30 P.M. SSC Workshop 8-9 p.m.
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27
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THANKSGIVING BREAK 29 30 Averett Ladies’ Night Health & Wellness Center 7:30-9 p.m.
Key
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15
Ultimate Bingo 6-8 p.m.
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9
Celebrates Christmas 7 p.m.
Campus Spa 11-2 p.m.
• Athletic Home Games COUGAR ACTIVITIES BOARD EVENTS Academic dates
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• wbb 2 P.M. • wrestling 6 P.M.
ESTABLISHED 1922
Tablecontents of
04 Averett’s Main Hall Deemed Historic From Student to University Trustee in Four Months 05 06 SGA: We Want YOU to Get Involved 07 Averett Offers Counseling Services to Students Internationals Celebrate Thanksgiving 08 09 CCECC Offers Clothes Closet for Students Great Places to Go In Danville During Your Free Time 10 11 Students Enjoy Local Restaurants 12 Now an Official Club, “Blue Crew” Wants You Thomas Underwood: A Behind the Scenes Hero 13 14 A Profile on Brigid Belko 15 Why Can’t We? We Want to Know. 16 Students Needed to Help with Food Distribution 17 Student Becomes ISA Ambassador 18 Determining Which Study Method Is For You Unveiling the AU Historic Marker
Alumna Jada Little’s Story
Revamp of Student Government Aims for Student Involvement Mrs. Kahwajy-Anderson Helps Students Adjust
International Students Get Creative During the Holiday
Cover photo by Jenny Gregory
Executive Staff Dr. Susan Huckstep advisor
Brianna Shelton publication editor
Ashley Bowman copy desk chief
Lanie Davis
multimedia & copy editor
Lindsey Fulcher & Jenny Gregory video coordinators
Kashawn Carter
Staff Writers
circulation manager
Josh Boggs Kashawn Carter Taylor Cook Lauren Cowling Lanie Davis Paul Dennis Katelyn Dewberry Lindsey Fulcher Jenny Gregory Brent Hammer Nate Lake Rosa Morales Nekay Olds Saul Velazquez
Professional, Business Attire Clothing Available for Students
Bowling or the Movies, to the Riverwalk, Danville Has Options Wings or Sushi? Students Tell Us Their Favorite Places to Eat Student-Led Spirit Group Hopes to Gain Members
Head Athletic Trainer goes above and beyond for AU Athletics How Belko Champions Service and Hands-on Learning
Kashawn Carter Sits Down with Dean Villarose for Q&A
Volunteer Opportunites are Abundant at AU through CCECC Sydney Glass Joins International Study Abroad Program Students and Staff Weigh in on the Best Way to Study
More Stories!
Follow @ChanticleerNews on social media to view campus stories on video.
Averett’s Main Hall Deemed Historic by Josh Boggs
On Sept. 18, Averett unveiled a historic marker honoring the 107-year-old Main Hall. The marker, located at the front of the school on West Main Street, was issued by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Accompanied by several university students in front of the building, key speakers at the ceremony included: Danville Mayor John B. Gilstrap; Senior Planner for the City of Danville, Renee Burton, who spoke on behalf of the Virginia Department of Historic Resources; and Dr. Tiffany Franks, President of the University. In 1907, the Roanoke Institute purchased 15 acres on West Main Street for $5,500 to move the campus from the original location on Patton Street, to our current location. In 1910, Main Hall was constructed at a cost of $40,670. By 1917, Roanoke Institute became Averett College and was accredited as a junior college. The College became a four-year institution in 1967, and in 2001, Averett College became Averett University. “This building has been a fixture of Danville’s landscape for more than a century,” Gilstrap said. “The city of Danville is proud of our hometown university and this is another occasion in which we can share together in commemorating and a special connection to the past.”
The new historic marker means so much to the University and how far we’ve come since 1859. “This sign symbolizes Averett University’s legacy of education, how it has changed lives, and the contributions to the community,” Franks said. “This is a source of pride for our community, especially with how far back Averett’s roots go.” Averett hopes the sign will draw attention from visitors, community members, and potential students. The sign reads: “The Virginia General Assembly chartered Union Female College, forerunner of Averett Univer-sity, in 1859. Supported by the Concord, Dan River, and Roanoke Baptist Associations, the school offered preparatory and collegiate instruction young women. Classes were held in down-town Danville until 1911, when Main Hall, a Neo-Classical Revival-style building, opened here on a new 15-acre campus. At the request of alumnae, the school was renamed in 1917 for the Averett family, eight of those whose members served trustees, presidents, principals, and profes-sors. Averett later became a coeducational, four-year university combining the liberal arts and sciences with professional programs.”
President Tiffany Franks announced the unveiling of the Averett University historic marker on Sept. 18. Present at the unveiling along with students and faculty members were Danville Mayor John Gilstrap and other prominent members of the city.
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From Student to University Trustee in Four Months by Jenny Gregory
Jada Little attended Averett University for her undergraduate degree and graduated in December of 2016. To her surprise, in April, a short four months after her graduation, she was chosen to serve a one-year term on Averett’s Board of Trustees. “I am so incredibly honored and thankful to be in this position,” Little said. Little serves as the Young Alum Trustee for the 2017-2018 academic year. The Board of Trustees created this positon around 2012 to get a better sense of Averett from a student’s view. Christopher West was the first Young Alum Trustee and is Little’s mentor during her term. Young Alum Trustees serve only one year unlike Board of Trustee members. “During my time as a student at Averett, I was given so many opportunities to engage in the university in so many different aspects, and I’m just really excited to keep doing that through my time on the Board,” Little said. Little was chosen by the Board of Trustees despite the fact that she resides in Dover, Delaware. She says that the commute for her position has not been that hard as she has only had to attend one event so far. “We have joked about seeing if one of the students in the aviation department could make a stop to fly me down, but I don’t mind the drive,” Little said. Little hopes she can bring to light many of the concerns she had as a student and which are still relevant as she has only been an alumna for nine months. “I hope to be able to speak about issues and interests that most students have during their time at Averett. There are a handful of Averett alumni on our board, which I think is really cool,” Little said. Little does find it strange to be such a recent graduate and already be a member of the Board, but she appreciates that the group is interested in hearing how current students feel and what they would like to see done. “It’s kind of funny being on the Board of Trustees so soon after I graduated. A year ago, I was interviewing another member on the Board
to introduce her as a new member of the Board of Trustees, and now I’m serving on it. I think this position is just another way of many to show off how much Averett is constantly thinking about students and their thoughts and feelings about every aspect of the university. A lot has already changed at Averett since I’ve graduated, so it’s pretty cool being able to learn the campus all over again every time I get to come back,” Little said. Little loves her position and getting the opportunity to help her alma mater that she holds so dear to her heart all while wearing her “fancy gold nametag.” “I love being able to talk to such successful people about how to make my favorite place more successful. There were times when Averett felt more like home than my actual home, so to be able to be even a small part of making it even better is just the best thing I can imagine,” Little said. Little may have graduated in December of 2016, transforming from a student to an alumnus, but it is easy to see that she is living proof of one very dear sentiment. No matter where life takes students and alumni, every individual who attends Averett University leaves a piece of their heart in Danville, Virginia.
Jada Little graduated just a short few months ago in December of 2016, and she was chosen to serve a one-year term on Averett’s Board of Trustees
The Chanticleer • 5
SGA: We Want YOU to Get Involved“And so they are going to be the voice of these by Rosa Morales
It is sometimes a struggle to find students who are willing to take leadership roles in student government but Assistant Dean of Students and Title IX Coordinator Jill Adams is hoping to get more students involved. This fall Adams introduced a “revamp” of the Student Government Association (SGA). “This year, what we decided to do instead of having just one student government, is to actually have class officers for each class. Each of these classes will have four representatives that will help me and my team to reach out to the student body and get their input,” Adams said. “We are hoping that by doing this, that each cabinet will be able to engage their class with activities on campus, but not only that, but also be the spokesperson and voice for that [particular] class.” Certain SGA representatives are also granted the opportunity to work on and with the Leadership Council. This council is comprised of one person from every club and organization on campus in hopes of providing Averett with a group of people of various interests to better promote their clubs.
Sophomore T’era Brown is the treasurer for her class.
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clubs and organizations. They are going to help advertise their events. They are going to discuss for new clubs to being added, and they are going to talk about funding. Things like that. They will be the approval process,” Adams said. T’era Brown, a sophomore student-athlete, holds a position in the cabinet for her class as Treasurer as well as being a member on the Leadership Board. “I wanted to become more involved with the student body. I’m already an athlete on campus, but I wanted to do more outside of athletics,” Brown said, “meeting new people, having new experiences, and stuff like that. And as a student body, I think the [classes] just want to get more involved and just get them, the students, to make Averett a better school for us.” Students are eager to pursue means of bettering campus life for those who live on campus, as well as those who commute. With the combined efforts of Adams’ team and the students, Averett University is hoping to become a place where more students will want to be involved in campus life.
Averett Offers Counseling Services to Students by Lanie Davis
For some students, college life may be overwhelming and stressful. Others may be dealing with depression or anxiety. At the University, Director of Counseling Joan Kahwajy-Anderson helps students with these issues and more on a daily basis. Kahwajy-Anderson says that she assists students with anxiety and general sadness the most, but they also come to her with adjustment to college life, academic decisions and relationship issues, including those having to deal with roommates. “I would say that most of the time, the issues that students bring here are typical for college students,” Kahwajy-Anderson said. “Developmentally, it’s not unusual to see somebody wondering about what major they should have or just getting adjusted to college life. We expect these sorts of things.” However, she said that sometimes she gets more significant issues, such as panic attacks, suicidal thoughts or eating disorders. Kahwajy-Anderson also said that, in general, the number of students she sees varies on the time of year or from one class year to the next. “A lot of times, I see more first year students, but depending on the time of year, I see more seniors, especially towards the end of the [academic] year when they’re trying to make that transition from college life to the real world,” she said. Generally, students seek counseling around their sophomore year for help with decisions on majors. The counseling center also sees more students around midterms and final exams. In our society, there can be a stigma around seeking counseling or help for mental health issues. Kahwajy-Anderson sees this and tries to eliminate it when she can. “Unfortunately, not just students but people in general still think there’s something significantly wrong with them if they come to counseling,” she said. “I try to dispel that because most are just going through typical developmental issues that college students are bound to go through.” It is not always clinical, either. People can
turn to counseling when they see unhealthy habits and want to make behavioral changes, like quitting smoking for example. However, Kahwajy-Anderson wants students to know that counseling is having a discussion about whatever may be going on in a student’s life and trying to change it to make it better. If a student is apprehensive, she encourages students to at least try it out. “If you have an idea in your mind that counseling is negative, come and talk,” she said. “Come and sit in the room for a few minutes. Let’s have a conversation, because I think you’ll find it’s not a lot different than just sitting down and having a conversation with a friend.” She also stresses that counseling is an active process, not a passive one. It is ultimately up to the student to decide what goals they want to reach, and it is important that they share honest and accurate information. Averett’s counseling services are free and unlimited to students. The center also provides psychoeducational programs, such as its current Tuesday night discover group on learning about 12 step strategies for coping with life in general. This program meets at 8 p.m. and will run until Dec. 5. It meets at the counseling center on the fourth floor of the student center. Counseling hours are generally Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To set an appointment or find out more information on the counseling center, students can email Joan Kahwajy-Anderson at jkahwajy@averett.edu or call (434) 791-5624.
In the counseling center, students can find information about programs and available services.
The Chanticleer • 7
Internationals Celebrating Thanksgiving by Lauren Cowling
Thanksgiving is a national holiday for the United States, Canada, and a few other countries. This year it is celebrated on Thursday, the 23rd of November. The holiday began as a day of giving thanks for blessing the harvest and of the preceding year. Although Thanksgiving is a well-established holiday in the United States, not all countries are familiar with it. Particularly Averett’s international student body, some of whom might not have heard of it, much less celebrate it. “We do not have Thanksgiving or anything like it in Sweden,” junior Linnea Meyer, said. Averett’s large international student population allows for them to experience a whole new holiday and everything that comes with it, if they choose to. However, being away from home can be hard as not all international students are able to go home. “Previous years I have gone to see my family down in Florida,” David Cuperman, a junior from Colombia, said. “I’ve also been with internationals from the soccer team to Miami, Florida.” “The first two years I went with friends. Last year I went with my girlfriend,” Nicolas Quevedo, a senior from Ecuador, said. Some international students like to take advantage of their time in America, this includes discovering new places whenever they get the chance. “My first year here, three of my teammates and I (all international) went to Charlotte, N.C. for 5 days,” Meyer said. “My sophomore year two of
my friends and I took a road trip to NYC for a week.” For freshman international students, this Thanksgiving may be their first introduction to the holiday, and they will be looking for something to do. “I’m going home with a friend for Thanksgiving this year,” Eleanor Crane, a freshman from Australia, said. “This year, I cannot go home because it is not a holiday here, but Debbie Flinn, Averett’s director of development and planned giving, is hosting my team over to celebrate with her,” Caroline Earle, a freshman from Canada, said. “She is also Canadian.” Experiencing a new holiday can be interesting to learn about different traditions from another country. “I’m excited [for Thanksgiving] because it’s something entirely new. I’m also looking forward to eating pumpkin pie,” Crane said. For those international students who aren’t sure of their plans, upperclassmen are full of ideas and willing to help. “I suggest that they just organize a good plan with their friends, rent a car and go and explore, get to know a new place,” Cuperman said. “Not necessarily go out of the country, but there are some amazing places to get to know that are close by or even a bit far but it will be a good adventure.” Whether you are going home with a friend, or taking a trip to another state, an international student’s Thanksgiving is guaranteed to be a fun, new experience. Far left: Lauren Cowling, Johanna Öhrnberg, Amanda Gustavsson and Linnea Meyer enjoyed a Thanksgiving meal at Jack in the Box. At left: Linnea Meyer, Lauren Cowling and Johanna Öhrnberg embraced the New York skyline from the Brooklyn Bridge.
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CCECC Offers Professional Clothes Closet for Students
by Paul Dennis
In the world of impending job interviews and career opportunities, one’s attire is of the utmost importance. Employers expect potential employees to arrive at an interview dressed to impress. This forces anyone who aspires to impress their potential employer to purchase nice dress clothes, which are usually not cheap. The problem that arises is quite simple. For college students (who, by definition, are usually low in funds), it is quite the challenge trying to scrounge up enough money to purchase a suit for a big job opportunity or presentation. However, the Danville community and Averett staff members at the CCECC may have found the answer to this problem –The Clothes Closet. The Clothes Closet is a collection of interview suitable clothing, available at the CCECC, for students who do not have interview clothes. Angie McAdams, director of career development, has been helping organize the drive since its beginning and currently has assisted in racking up what is now dozens of articles of clothing for interested students. “We came up with the idea a few years ago to do this. There was a need for professional interview attire but students struggled with having the money for it. So, we began to encourage faculty, staff, and community members to donate gently used interview suitable attire. The response since then has been tremendous,” McAdams said. As the year progresses, more and more students find themselves needing to dress better for internships and These are examples of clothing that interviews alike, can be found in the CCECC’s clothes but there are closet. Here students can borrow many who find items needed for professional meetings as well as job interviews.
themselves lacking the means of getting the clothes needed; whether that may be a tie, a skirt, or a suit jacket. However, the CCECC is prepared for most of it. “Clothes are most often borrowed near the end of the semester when most students are busy interviewing. As of right now, we currently have suit jackets, pants, skirts, shirts, shoes, and ties; all of which in a variety of sizes for both men and women.” Anyone who has clothing to donate should just drop it off at the CCECC. If there are any questions or students that need interview attire, should stop by the CCECC or contact Angie McAdams for an appointment. Thanks to the hard work of our Averett faculty members and dedicated members of the community, the student body now has one less thing to worry about, and one more thing to be thankful for.
The Chanticleer • 9
Great Places to Go In Danville during Your Free Time by Katelyn Dewberry
The location of Averett University is a central spot for students to have the ability to explore Danville. Staying on campus is great, but having the option to leave for a short period of time can be fun too. There are endless options of places to go such as restaurants like Kickback Jack’s and Olive Garden, Riverside Lanes, the Riverwalk and Danville Cinema. New additions to Danville include Chipotle, as well as an improved Starbucks with a drive-thru. At the bowling alley, Riverside Lanes, there are specials on certain days. On Wednesdays, you can bowl for the affordable price of only $1.50 for each game. On Fridays, there is a happy hour special from 6-9 p.m. for only $10. This price includes bowling shoes and unlimited games. While you bowl, music plays in the background, creating a fun atmosphere. If you do like competition, Riverside Lanes also has a bowling team. “My favorite place to go in my free time is the bowling alley,” Junior Barry Purnell said. “I like to compete with my friends.” Purnell is from North Carolina, and he enjoys the different things to do in Danville. He lives on campus and has been able to enjoy the local theater as well. Another great place to go in your free time is the Riverwalk. This trail is a quiet place to roam and enjoy the great beauty of nature. The area is a popular hangout out spot for students and
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other members of the Danville community. A group of friends can also go bike riding and have fun exploring the trail. “I like how going to the Riverwalk can be a social activity because I can meet my friends,” Junior Davis Smith said. Smith is a commuter from the Danville area. He likes being able to enjoy the Riverwalk when he has the chance to. Another popular place for students to go is the local YMCA. You are able to exercise in the gym or just play a fun game of basketball with friends. Averett students also get a discounted membership. “After practice, I like going to the YMCA to work out,” Sophomore Kye Nuffer said. “I enjoy going there because it is a friendly environment.” Going to Starbucks seems like the most convenient place to go if you only have a few minutes to spare. The new Starbucks’ drive thru creates a faster pace and is well suited for college students. “When I’m not at Averett, I enjoy spending time at Starbucks, because I work there as well as do my homework,” Sophomore Tiffany Bowker said. “I also like being able to meet my friends there.” Danville is full of great places to go during your free time. Whenever you find yourself with no homework and time to spare, you should explore these and other locations in Danville.
From Wings to Sushi, Students Enjoy Local Restaurants
by Paul Dennis
Danville is filled with many different places Danville. to stop and enjoy a nice lunch or an eventful “It [Tokyo Grill] is definitely my number one dinner. Being the home of Averett and its broad right now,” Preston said. “They mostly serve and diverse family has its perks, and students sushi, which is great because I love sushi. They often find themselves parked in front of a local have Sushi Sunday, in which things are half restaurant to blow price. You can off some steam and get three rolls grab a bite to eat. for eight dollars, Sophomore or two for four, Sherman Logan which is pretty often finds himself good. Overall it is seated in the den a very clean and of his favorite nice place with place to eat, the a comfortable neighboring environment and Zaxby’s. Zaxby’s is fresh food.” a southern style fast F r e s h m a n food restaurant, Xavier Aguilar’s with the nearest opinion differs one to Averett from both of the being located 176 previous Averett Holt Garrison students. Rather Pkwy (Coleman than eat at Tokyo Marketplace). Grill, Aguilar “My favorite prefers an entirely would have to be different franchise Zaxby’s,” Sherman for his seafood. said, “Their food “Easily Red and chicken in Lobster,” Aguilar particular is great. said. “Red Lobster I go about three is not very times a week and expensive and usually get my serves really good favorite meal, food; honestly which is the Wingz the best seafood and Thingz. It’s like around. My boneless wings, favorite thing from chicken tenders, there is either the fries, celery, and Shrimp Scampi toast all in one or the King Crab meal.” Legs.” Z a x b y ’ s Senior Kamihla Preston’s favorite restaurant in Danville is Tokyo Grill, Whether it is Red isn’t the only which offers a half price Sushi Sunday special. Lobster, Zaxby’s, restaurant receiving high praise from the Averett Tokyo Grill, or any other nearby restaurant Community. Senior Kamihla Preston has been or fast food place, students from Averett will going to Tokyo Grill (364 Lowes Drive) since continue to venture out often in an attempt to 2015 and claims it is the best sushi place around satisfy their urge to socialize and eat.
The Chanticleer • 11
Now an official club, “Blue Crew” wants you by Lindsey Fulcher
The Averett University student cheering section, “Blue Crew” has officially become its own separate club. In the past, the group was parented by the Student Advisory Athletic Committee. Blue Crew was approved as a club the second week of September at the Leadership Council meeting where sophomore Devin Merritt represented the organization. “It made sense to keep SAAC as our parent but go off and do our own thing because we are trying to get the whole campus involved,” advisor and assistant men’s soccer coach, Kohl Orner said. “We want to reach out to the whole student population and not just have athletes supporting other athletes.” The club members believe that Blue Crew needed to be something separate from SAAC so that the school can come together for school spirit and represent every sport at Averett, rather than just a select few. To be a full member, you have to attend at least eight sporting events, express a supportive behavior and display sportsmanship. As a member of Blue Crew you are expected to attend at least one game per sport. Blue Crew will also have bi-weekly meetings that any student can attend. “Having a Blue Crew brings the school
together,” Merritt said. “The mission is to create a supportive fan section while being respectful to other teams.” This club allows the students to come together, meet new people and cultivate friendships. He said the club wants to make it a culture where every student wants to be a part of something that raises school spirit. Blue Crew is meant to be something freshman come in and want to be involved in. The group will create a fun and supportive environment for all sporting events and will help within the campus community. “Blue Crew is meant to be loud and supportive, bring energy to the games and let athletes and teams know that we are there to support them,” Merritt said. Lastly, the club will provide an opportunity for students to get involved on campus and allow athletes and non-athletes to come together and show their school pride and enjoy being around the sporting event. The new club has an e-board that will grow the on-campus spirit. The e-board members are Devin Merritt, Lindsey Fulcher, Alex Hickman, Eddie Glenn and Joshua Davis. If you are interested in being a part of Blue Crew, contact any of these members or club advisor, Kohl Orner. For more information, contact Orner at kohlorner@averett.edu.
The Blue Crew can be found at many sporting events. They are often the most spirited in the crowd and can sometimes be seen covered from head to toe in blue or gold.
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Thomas Underwood: A Behind the Scenes Hero by Nate Lake
them. When I do an eval (evaluation) on a student We all know our President, Tiffany Franks and athlete when I interact with them, I always think our Athletic Director, how would I want Meg Stevens. However, someone to interact there are many people with my kid.” that work behind the That is what he scenes at Averett. strives for when he The work of Thomas comes to work every Underwood, head day and with all of athletic trainer, his student athletes. is often unseen. While he does his best Underwood is going to prevent injuries on his seventh year on from becoming the athletic training serious, unfortunately staff. Underwood injuries do happen. oversees a staff of five Student athlete Elijah and is in charge of all Harris is currently medical coverage for out for the season each of Averett’s 16 due to an accident NCAA teams, which that happened during includes treating daily the Cougars training injuries, helping gather camp. insurance information, “We love and setting up doctor visits appreciate everything and drug testing for he does for us,” Harris athletes. said. “I know once “The thing I like I am able to play most about it is the again, I will be in the interaction with the best shape possible student athletes, because of the rehab I and then I’ve always Although many of Averett’s non-athletic community may not know will get from him.” how much he does, student-athletes and athletic staff know just been a huge sports how important Underwood is to the day-to-day operations at North Underwood is a fan,” Underwood Campus and on the road. He is in charge of all medical coverage for valued member of the said. “Having the the 16 NCAA teams, and much more. Cougar family. His opportunity to still be on the sideline and be student athletes know that they have a one of a around sports even though I am not playing them kind athletic trainer. is what drew me to athletic training. I just enjoy “His ability to stay calm in all situations, he the competitive atmosphere, and there’s nothing shows no panic no matter what has happened on much better than watching a team win and being the field,” senior football player Tyler Gray said. a part of that celebration.” “I know when I broke my ankle freshman year, Underwood loves being out there on the field or he really made me calm, just by the way he was on the court with his student athletes. However handling the situation and talking to me on the there are more people he wishes to spend time field.” with, like his wife of seven years and his two Not everybody gets to have awards and trophies children ages 6 and 4. for their hard work and dedication. Although “It’s kind of one of the challenges that come this may be the case here, the entire athletic with the job,” Underwood said. “I feel like in one department knows that they have a behind the way or another the student athletes here are kind scenes hero in Underwood. of like my kids, and that is kind of how I treat
The Chanticleer • 13
Belko champions service and hands-on learning that helped me find myself and helped shape who by Saul Velazquez
Sometimes there are faculty and staff who work hard for their job and do not get much recognition for it. Staff member Brigid Belko, director of experiential learning in the Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness, loves working at Averett and does quite a bit for the school. “I applied to the Director of Experiential Learning CCECC position and I thought it was cool how it worked,” Belko said. “The people here at Averett University are great, and I was just impressed by the family image that is shown here—everybody waiting to show positive aspects to the students or Averett itself.” Belko loves her position and has enjoyed the opportunities that have come her way, especially if they’ve involved helping others. “This was not planned. I was a natural resource major, so knew a lot about trees. I had a lot of experiences, but I loved hands-on experiences and sharing with people that type of learning as well. I have always loved to help people, so that is one of the reasons on why I decided to do this line of work, which I have done for three years now,” Belko said. She is not only a director of experiential learning, but she also co-teaches with a professor for Averett 101. “I have been co-teaching for Averett 101 with Dr. George Odongo every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, which I also have meetings from time to time with community partners and faculty as well,” Belko said. Belko says community service is an important part of self-discovery, and she wants to bring that to Averett students. “For me, community service was an experience
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I wanted to become today,” Belko said. “I wanted to do the same thing for others as well who do not know who they are yet. My focus is reflection, because it is important and that is when students connect it to their hearts, instead of just trying to stay busy. When a student can volunteer, it will help them know about something that they didn’t know before and it could help them later in life.” While Belko has many different responsibilities at Averett, she has one that sticks out to her. “My favorite thing within all the jobs that I am involved is would have to be a part of the Bonner Leader program,” she said. “We have been planning this program for about two years. A reason that I like it so much is that I get to build relationships with students and working with those in the community.” Belko is also working towards getting her PhD degree, while working a job. “It is hard to say when I will receive my PhD, because of the research that I have to do for my class, but I will say that I will receive it within three to three and a half years,” Belko said. “My degree is in educational leadership and cultural foundations, which I try to apply this to my everyday routine at work. It is not easy managing a job and trying to get my degree, because there can be some challenges. You don’t put this amount of effort into something you don’t love.” With all the things that Brigid Belko is involved in, she still has time for those important to her and hobbies. “I have a dog, and I recently just got engaged, Also, I read a book a week for school,” Belko said. Belko does a lot for students and the Averett community as a whole. Her hard work shows how much she loves her job.
Why Can’t We? We Want To Know! by Kashawn Carter
Every wonder why certain things are not allowed on campus? I sat down with Dean of Students Lesley Villarose to find the answers.
Pets
Coming from home, there are a lot of things we have to leave behind. We leave the things we love, some appliances we use every day, and objects we cook with. One of the things we love that we are leaving other than our parents are our pets. “Pets are a health and safety concern, because if we allowed students to have pets then we’d have to put in restrictions and guidelines,” Lesley Villarose, dean of students, said. “Some people may be allergic to cats or dogs, and other students may be allergic to animals such as rabbits and hamsters, and we would also have to worry about the clean-up issue.” We aren’t completely out of options though, soon in the future we may start seeing some support animals for students on campus. “We are working on our support animal policy, what that means is a student will need to have the right documentation from a therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, that says this animal supports reason XYZ, then we could grant that person permission to have that pet.”
Toaster Ovens
It is normal for college campuses to not allow pets. We would have to worry about the students around us as well as protecting the pets. Another health and safety concern for us are toaster ovens. “There a health and safety concern because they are a fire hazard,” Villarose said. There are opportunities to get through this though. Students can talk to their graduate hall director or RA, and see if a community one can be bought and placed in a common space. We can’t each have an individual one and place them in our room but having a shared toaster oven would be a good option for students. “Students would have to take this route, because we have to look at everything we have plugged in, in the rooms.”
Hammocks
A variety of students can be seen walking
through campus, hanging out with friends in the seats provided, or bringing out their own chairs and creating spaces. Hammocks can be seen sometimes on the campus, but our apartment students wished they could have them in their own spaces. “This is a health and safety concern as well as a building safety concern,” Villarose said. “Hammocks have never been allowed to be hung in or on the apartments, but we can make a way around this. We can allow the students to create a space on campus and let it be known that this is a space where students can enjoy hanging out in their hammocks.”
Alcohol
Students who are of legal drinking age also question why alcohol is allowed of the North Campus during tailgating activities, but is never allowed on the Main Campus. “A couple years ago this rule was set by our Presidents Council who would oversee the policy with the Board of Trustees, to continue being a dry campus, but making a few exceptions. This is outlined specifically in the handbook stating the rules and restrictions of what can be done with tailgating such as how long and everything else but this is a rule set by the President’s Council.”
Apartments
We are seeing more students being housed in the houses that are along Woodland Drive, near the Student Center. Students are wondering though, if Averett is going to build another set of apartments. “This isn’t something we really can’t have as Averett is still expanding its community and bringing in more students each year,” Villarose said. “This something we really can explore. It’s not out of the realm of possibility, but we really just have to make sure the beds on our campus are getting filled first.” As we are growing we can see our school really progressing, such as the renovations that are going be made on Main Hall. At least some of the things we wish we could have are being taking care of. Even though we can’t have everything we had at home, we can all find ways to enjoy our campus and be happy where we are.
The Chanticleer • 15
Students Are Needed to help with food distribution & MOre food, because we wanted to give the food to the by Saul Velazquez
Each day the University has leftover food church for those who are food secure.” from the dining hall that is often thrown away. Covington and Moroni are hoping that students However, the café is working on partnering with will step in to help make the food distribution a local church to donate the food to others in program an ongoing effort. need. “The food has to be picked up every Tuesday “The CCECC has tried to build strong of every week at 4:00 p.m. The food prep is at relationships with organizations in the the church and the community comes in at 5:00 community so that way, if the organization will p.m. I would love to have students help transport need something, they will come to us, which is the food from the café to the church, or they can vice-versa, we can go to them if we need help. volunteer at the meal at the church,” Covington It is a mutually beneficial relationship. The said. “In addition, if anyone is interested, they needs of both parties are met. The Episcopal can contact me by my email, rcovington@averett. Church reached out to us saying, edu, or feel free to call me at 434‘hey we need this, can you help?’ 791-7215.” And luckily, we could,” Rachel In addition to helping with Covington, assistant director of the food distribution program, community engagement, said. there are many other volunteer Some staff dislike the fact opportunities available for the food is being thrown away, interested students. knowing that it was a long and “The CCECC is here on campus timely process to get the food. to connect students to the outside “It drives me nuts, because all of community. One way we do that the time, the effort, and the money is through creating volunteer invested into the growing, the appointments. In addition, we try In addition to the many volunteer harvesting, the transporting, the to be intentional about creating production, and the service of the opportunities students can sign up volunteer opportunities that for through the CCECC, Moroni and meals, which leads to it just being the Bon Apetit staff are looking for meet a need that exists in our thrown away. It all goes down to students to assist with distribution community,” Covington said. “We the farming and the farmers plant of leftover food items from the caf to use, ‘Get Connected,’ which is our the seeds, which later distributes the church. volunteer software. The link to it is the crops to the company that Averett receive,” engage.averett.edu and that’s one way a student Michael Moroni, general manager/ Bon Appetit can volunteer.” company, said. “The product is made into food, Volunteering is a good way to gain skills that so that we can serve it. So, the reason that it one didn’t have before, which will also help makes me mad is the food going to the garbage, benefit a student for future jobs or learning about which shows all the time wasted into making the the community. food and it just being thrown away.” “Soft skills are what a student or anyone has Previously there was a process in place to learned by volunteering such as communication, donate the unused food. It was a collaboration collaboration, and empathy. Things like that are between Covington, Moroni, and the local what our employees are looking for in 2017. Soft church. skills can help someone with whatever job he/or “The process was relatively short because we she may want to do,” Covington said. needed to have it planned. The CCECC asked Furthermore, helping volunteer for events is us what we did with the leftover food and we such a great way to help those who can’t help wanted to have food compacted,” Moroni said. themselves. Students should help anywhere they “We wanted to create food recovery and we can such as community meals, nursing homes, talked with the church to give them the leftover bingo events, or anywhere else.
16 • Follow us.
Student Becomes International Study Abroad Ambassador by Lanie Davis
In the Spring 2017 semester, Sydney Glass, senior modern languages and biomedical sciences major, studied abroad in Seville, Spain to improve her Spanish skills. She spent the semester there immersed in the Spanish language and experiencing another culture firsthand. “My experience was amazing because I truly feel that I grew as an individual by being away from my mom and home for the first time, and it forced me out of my comfort zone by being more willing to try new things,” Glass said. Upon returning, Dr. Catherine Clark suggested that Glass fill out an application to be a Global Ambassador for International Studies Abroad (ISA), the program she studied abroad through. She was one of 200 others across the country to be chosen to be a GA. As a Global Ambassador, Glass must provide information about ISA, such as the organization itself, the programs available, and matching majors to students’ ideal places, and studying abroad overall to Averett students. “I am to help the study abroad office at Averett in anyway possible to help increase the interest in studying abroad and being a peer advisor
for students that may feel more inclined to talk to another student about the different options available,” she said. “My main responsibility is being an advocate for study abroad in general and helping to encourage more students to take advantage of the opportunities available.” Glass enjoys her position because she gets to socialize with students that have similar interests. “I like the fact that I can talk to more students about something I enjoy, and it allows me to meet others that feel the same and share experiences. I also get to work for a really great organization that takes care of its students.” Glass would encourage anyone considering studying abroad to just do it and not let fear stop them. “It sounds cliché but the experience is really life changing. There is no way to describe it other than to experience it yourself,” she said. As an ambassador, Glass is always happy to help if students need any assistance when it comes to study abroad, whether through ISA or a different program. If students have any questions or want information about study abroad, Glass can be reached at ssglass@aumail.averett.edu.
At left: Senior Sydney Glass studied abroad in Seville, Spain during the Spring 2017 semester. Above: Glass and Lanie Davis promote study abroad during Sophomore Success Week by offering information as well as different cultural foods.
The Chanticleer • 17
Determining Which Study Method Is For You
individually will save time when beginning to When deciding how to prepare for a major test study. or an upcoming quiz, choosing a study method “Reading the material out loud, from the is important. Students can choose to create flash textbook is the least helpful method for me,” cards, visual aids, and use other online sources Rosser said. to help them study. Practicing using study methods gives you the “I believe the best method is finding a quiet chance to decide on the most useful one in your space to create flashcards,” Isaiah Rosser, opinion. Using study methods will eliminate the freshman nursing major, said. large amount of stress trying to throw yourself Rosser also finds the technique of highlighting into the test unprepared creates. Taking the time to be useful when using flashcards to study. out of each day to study for even only a short Creating a period of time is map as a visual well worth the aid for a history effort. course allows “Study times you to recognize should be locations and nonnegotiable,” increases your Dr. Catherine ability to recall Clark, assistant the information professor of later on. There English, French, are online sources and director of that also act as study abroad, said. another helpful Finding out visual aid, such you aced a test as educational you were worried websites. about is the best One website feeling, and it is that is extremely created by putting helpful is Khan in the work ethic of Academy. This studying. Having a website allows you positive mindset of to watch videos, wanting to succeed Freshman Isaiah Rosser sits outside the Student Success Center studying for example in and keeping an for one of his classes. Although Rosser prefers using flashcards for math, watching open mind, will studying, there are times when reviewing the text can be just as helpful. an instructor further permit you complete an example. The breakdown of each the chance of finding a great study technique. step in a specific math problem creates the chance Keeping all notes from each class in order can for you to better understand how to complete the make a major difference. math problem. This website also has the option “Having a different folder or binder for each to take practice quizzes to help prepare you for class helps keep your notes organized,” Aries your upcoming quiz or test. Wilson, assistant director for the Student Success Trying to decide which of these methods is Center, and director of the Quality Enhancement best can sometimes be difficult. Before choosing Program (QEP), said. a method, you should decide what class you are To further enhance the success rate of these going to study for. In most cases this will make study techniques other factors should be the studying process easier. Also abandoning included, like location. study methods that do not work best for you “Setting is really important, that you find a
by Katelyn Dewberry
18 • Follow us.
place where you can actually work,” Clark said. Having the ability to maintain focus is possible through the use of a good study spot. This will reduce interruptions affecting the time needed to study. “Part of college is taking responsibility for your studies,” Clark said. Creating the time to study for each of your classes will be beneficial for your grades overall. Reviewing material on a daily basis will contribute to a better understanding of the topics being studied. “To make sure that you are really absorbing the material,” Clark said. It is always a good idea to find a study method that can be used for all courses. “The SQ3R method is a universal reading strategy, used when reading college textbooks,” Holly Kilby, academic support coordinator, said. According to Study Guides and Strategies website (http://www.studygs.net/texred2.htm), SQ3R is a reading method that helps students further understand reading textbooks. It is known for its five main steps, which consist of: “survey,” “question,” “read,” “recite,” and “review.” This source is extremely useful, because most of your college courses are taught by using a textbook as one of the main resources. If you are still having a hard time finding the right study strategy for you don’t worry, there is a test that you can take to help find the best method for you. You can take the “Learning Styles Inventory Test” to single out a good study technique. “Consider completing a test to find out which way you learn best,” Kilby said.
The Galesi Student Success Center, while a perfect place for students to study, is also home to a few need-to-know staff members’ offices. Holly Kilby, academic support coordinator, and Aries Wilson, assistant director for the SSC and director of the QEP, can be found near the Writing Center and are available for any issues that students may have.
When it comes to studying there is always multiple options to take in consideration. Great methods like flashcards, visual aids, and online sources can be the most helpful. No matter how you choose to study, the main objective is to comprehend the material. At times you may believe you will not be able to learn the information with confidence, however keep in mind continual practice is key to studying for all subjects. Never give up on a course when it gets difficult, instead continue to work towards establishing a better understanding of the material. “The amount of effort you put in preparing depends on the outcome,” Wilson said. Be willing to find the right study strategy that works best for you. Making the choice to find a strategy for you individually will only help you excel in your future endeavors as a college student.
The Chanticleer • 19
#Chantishowcase Take Back the Night
On October 23, students, faculty and community members gathered to listen to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault tell their stories. The room was filled with positive, encouraging messages for those in need of support. Haven of the Dan River Region partnered with AU and hopes to make it an annual event to raise awareness. For more information on Take Back the Night, use the QR code above to watch a story by Reporter Jenny Gregory.
Students weigh in on the discussion of these issues on campus. It’s good to talk about it, because it lowers stress and leads to helping someone live a more healthy lifestyle.
It’s important to talk about unhealthy relationships so that those in them can recognize them and escape.
Austin Mundy ‘19
Zach Parham ‘19
It’s so important to talk about sexual assault to make the conversation more open for those affected to step forward.
It can give all genders a chance to be brave enough to come out of their home and feel safe.
Flight Operations
Colleen Shea-Hackett ‘19 Equestrian Studies
Theatre/Computer Science
Dia Gray ‘21
Special Education completed by Taylor Cook