April 28th 2016, Page 16 The Concordian
Opinion TECH TALK
FROM PAGE 9
an essential part of my troubleshooting process on my S4. And this is not the first time this has happened, even in Samsung; before this, Apple intentionally made it’s devices difficult to take apart or modify so that if your Apple device were to break down, you couldn’t fix it yourself without a great deal of difficulty or funding to get it fixed or, like Apple was intending, re-
placed. Planned obsolescence is a big pain, but there are simple ways to avoid it. Hoidas talks in her article about some simple ways to avoid planned obsolescence. The first and foremost is how to avoid paying through the nose for textbooks by turning to the internet for lower prices on the same editions of textbooks being used in classes. To this point, I would advise students to talk with their professors about the nature of the material in their textbooks. Granted,
there are some subjects which are continually discovering new information that students need to know, and so some older editions of textbooks will not cover the same subjects as others. However, if your professor tells you that one edition of a textbook will cover the same material as a newer one might, don’t waste your money. For some other ways to avoid it, you can view the whole article on the qualitylogoproducts. com website with the search “planned obsolescence.”
As far as mobile devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops which students might use to make it through their classes, my advice is to be a smart consumer. I’m not trying to condemn these companies for trying to make money, because that’s the whole point of entrepreneurism. However, when considering which product you want to purchase, like the common debate between Apple vs. Samsung and other smart phones, don’t be taken in by flashy advertisements and gim-
micky products that accompany them. Be a smart consumer, and know the specifications of the gadget you’re looking to buy. Learn how it’s designed, and if you’re bold, learn how you can repair it should it break down. Most importantly, however, is to treat your devices with respect and careful handling in order to get the most longevity out of them. Follow these steps, and you can increase the life of many of your all important devices.
WEST VIRGINIA AND MARIJUANA Patrice Mitchell
Legalization could act as a booster for the WV economy. Photo Courtesy of floridamarijuanainfo.org tion on marijuana unnecessarily cost government from local and state to federal levels. The article states, “Jeffrey Miron, a senior lecturer at Harvard University who in 2010 studied the likely impacts of drug legalization, finding that about $8.7 billion would be saved on law enforcement and another $8.7
billion would be generated from taxes on marijuana.” States that have embraced the cannabis industry have already begun to reap the benefits from the legalization, and decriminalization. In June 2015, the Colorado State Department reported that over 60 million dollars in tax revenue was accu-
The views and opinions expressed in this student newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the Faculty, Staff, or Administration of Concord University, or that of the editors and advisor of the Concordian. They are that of the authors.
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TOWERS RENOVATIONS OFFICIALLY BEGIN Chrisitian Pridemore Staff Writer Whether you’re just finishing your first semester or your last here at Concord University, chances are that you’ve heard about the renovation to the Towers dormitory. Over the years, several rumors and plans have floated around campus about what’s going to happen and when it will happen. Now, students need not wonder any longer, for the renovation project has begun! The ground-breaking ceremony was met with “liquid sunshine,” as Dr. Kendra Boggess put it, on April 22, 2016. In her opening remarks, Dr. Boggess marked the occasion as “an inspiring and critically needed upgrade for our Towers dormitory,” and followed by saying “this is the culmination of years of planning and foundational work, and we thank those before us for their hard work, their vision, and their support. This day has been years in the making.” Dr. Boggess sends her sincere thanks to several people who helped to make this project possible, including all who were personally involved in the planning, such as various faculty members, the Student Government Association, and even several parents. Dr. Boggess also wishes to thank Bill Fraley and the housing staff for their
continued patience and hard Associates and Head Archi- ing body, such as Elliot Hicks, work keeping the students’ tect on the Towers renovation, Chair of the Concord Univerneeds at the forefront of their insists that the new buildings sity Board of Governors; Ronni Wood, President of Concord’s Student Government Association; and Dr. Peter Viscusi, Academic Dean of Concord University. Unfortunately, one of the speakers, Mike Browning, who is the Regional Coordinator for the Honorable Joe Manchin, could not be in attendance at the ceremony due to a scheduling conflict. All those who spoke at the ceremony shared their common aspirations and hopes that this project will be a resounding success for all involved. The Towers Renovations have been long awaited by all. After hearing some inspiring words from all who spoke, those Photo By: Christian Pridemore in attendance were invited to join the speakers in posing with work as the project is begin- will be “smarter than water,” the golden shovels produced ning, and also wishes to thank which he states is a key compo- to commemorate the event. the students for their patience nent in becoming an architect, Ironically, the speakers were in the same regard. and points out as a character- instructed not to actually make Over the next one and a half istic that Towers in its current any marks to the ground, so the years, students can expect to state is lacking. Fully renovated actual “groundbreaking” was see Towers being renovated at rooms and bathrooms, better more ceremonial than physical. a rate of 30 rooms at a time, wired and wireless technology, Several people, including which means that students oc- and better working, more con- the students and faculty of cupying those rooms will be sistent elevators are all on the Concord, local news media, and temporarily moved to Sarvay list of things that Driggs wishes even the town of Athens are Hall. While this might be an to see students using once the excited to see this project uninconvenience for most, if not project is completed. derway. As Dr. Boggess stated all of the students involved, Dr. In addition to both Dr. in her opening remarks, “I Boggess and the other faculty Boggess and Jody Driggs, a few look forward to standing here working on this project assure other speakers were in atten- with you upon the successful that this temporary inconve- dance at the groundbreaking completion of this project, and nience is for the greater good. to represent various facets of cutting the ribbon in 2018.” Jody Driggs, Principal of Silling Concord University’s govern-
This EdiTion News: • Towers Groundbreaking • Box City • Undergraduate Research Day • Relay for Life
studeNt Life: • Lip Sync • Pie-a-Professor • BB&T Bus • Guest Columns • Earth Day • Spring Graduates
Arts &eNtertAiNmeNt: • Poet Laureate • Prince • Netflix
OpiNiON: • Sexual Assault Awareness • Obsolescence • Medical Marijuana
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Marijuana has a bad reputation. Stemming from the “War on Drugs,” people often associate it with drugs such as cocaine, heroine, and other extremely harmful substances. However, the public opinion on marijuana is starting to shift all across the country. Washington state, Oregon, Colorado, Alaska, have legalized marijuana for recreational use, while 24 other states allow the use of cannabis for medical purposes. Washington D.C. decriminalized recreational marijuana, making it legal for residents to carry up to two ounces of cannabis and own six plants, although the purchase of the plant is still illegal in the district. The United States spends an exponential amount of money to keep marijuana illegal. Huffington Post suggested in the 2013 article “Marijuana Prohibition Cost the Government 20 Billion Dollars Per Year,” that the government prohibi-
operators and administrators, security guards, salesmen, and more. The good thing about embracing a new industry is the creativity that comes along with creating the jobs. In February 2016, a medical marijuana bill, SB 640, was introduced in the West Virginia legislature. Jobs would also open in the medical industry if the current bill were to pass. Doctors would need special medical assistants to recommend types, strains, and doses for patients. Democratic Gubernatorial candidate, Jeff Kessler, expressed his support for the legalization of medical marijuana during a democratic debate. Kessler believes that marijuana could aid in serious diseases. It is evident that West Virginia needs change. It is time to embrace new industries which allow for growth in nontraditional areas. When people begin to view the cannabis business as a profitable opportunity instead of a criminal act, the state can began to benefit.
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mulated between January and June. That is 60 million dollars going towards schools, local and state parks, highway maintenance, and more It is no secret that West Virginia is facing a recession as a result of the failing coal fields, and a new industry is needed to help combat the loss of jobs and create new forms of revenue and opportunities. An Associated Press article from the Charleston Gazette-Mail last month reported that West Virginia is “Facing a $466 million 2017 budget gap.” Schools are losing funding, and young people are graduating and leaving the state. It is time to think outside of the traditional box, and embrace the cannabis industry. There are potential jobs that could be available through the legalization of marijuana in West Virginia. Growers, bud tenders, and delivery drivers are some jobs that could put blue-collar skilled workers back to work with little to low additional education required. Jobs could also include dispensary
April 28th, 2016
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Opinion
News
BOX CITY SHEDS SOME LIGHT Brittany Strother
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ticipants to demonstrate how prevalent hunger is in the United States. To do so, the group divided up the participants into the upper, middle, and lower classes, and fed them accordingly while also reading statistics on homelessness and hunger and the stories of some real-life homeless people and how they got in that position. Suydam further explained the Oxfam dinner, saying, “The top 20% of our population that actually gets to eat got pizza and juice, and got to eat at a set up table, and our middle class represented our 30%, and they got rice and beans, and they had to sit outside on a tarp, and they got water and a fork. Then our lower class, representing 50% of our population, all they got was a cup of rice, and they didn’t even get a fork to eat with it.”
Among participants were Cassidy Justice and Maizy Landreth. Both girls were new to Box City and explained how their first year went. For Justice, she says she realized how difficult homelessness could really be, even on a small scale. “As we were building it, it was really cold, it was really difficult, and I couldn’t imagine living here without any blankets, sweatshirts, that would be really bad,” she explained. Landreth agreed that it was difficult, but overall thought the experience was a good experience that she hopes to repeat. “I wanted to participate in the event to learn about the homeless population and some of the things that they go through. It’s been a really good learning experience and I hope to do it again next year,” she said.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH DAY Chrisitian Pridemore
Staff Writer Have you ever wondered how your sleeping habits affect your GPA? Are you interested in curing cancer? Do you enjoy programming, psychology, or literary conjecture? Then chances are you were in attendance at the 9th Annual Concord University Undergraduate Research Day on April 14, 2016 in the Student Center Ballroom. Undergraduate Research Day is a grand annual spectacle where Concord’s students are given the opportunity to present papers and posters on topics they have been studying for classes, capstones, and professor assisted research projects. The day begins with a
Keynote speaker Dr. Erlanger discusses his research. Photo By: Christian Pridemore formal presentation by students of papers they’ve written under the guidance of various professors. There were two different sessions being held simultaneously: one in the Ballroom, and one in the AB Conference Room. Topics in the Ballroom ranged from a variety of sub-
jects including programming, history, cancer research, and sociology. Meanwhile, in the AB Conference Room, topics of a more literary nature were discussed, with conjecture on such works from Wordsworth to Shakespeare. After the paper sessions, stu-
dents presented their research in the form of poster presentations. As was stated earlier, there were several topics of interest ranging from how music affects memory to how hallucinatory drugs affect cancer to developing artificial intelligence that could play computer games. This is a chance not only for students to proudly present their hard work and research, but also for them put on a show for the various graduate school representatives in attendance such as Marshall, West Virginia and King Universities. Near the end of the schedule came the Keynote Address by Dr. Daniel G. Erlanger entitled “From Man to Mouse: Uncovering the Neural Circuits of Developmental and Psychiatric Disorders in Animal Models.”
Dr. Ehlinger is a second year postdoctoral research fellow at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. As of right now, Dr. Ehlinger is studying the structure and function of serotonin in treatment of certain psychological disorders in mouse models. With this research, he plans to further study how these results might be analogous to humans and how he might treat people with similar disorders. Students are urged to look forward to the next Undergraduate Research Day as well as the similar Pre-Professional Day, in order to keep up to date with cutting edge research and technology being influenced by the university’s very own students and professors.
Tsivia Chonoles
by women, while about 40,000 permeated our society as a part Managing Editor were reported by men. The of a growing rape culture. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Sexual assault and rape are Many people may not have Network (RAINN) reports that never the fault of the victim; known this, but April is Sexual 68% of all sexual assaults are when a person says that they Assault Awareness month. Which begs the question: why do we need an entire month designated to raising awareness for sexual assault? Let me give you some statistics. According to the Joyful Heart Foundation, an organization committed to putting an end to sexual assault and domestic abuse, on average per year, one in five women and one in 71 men will be raped in the United States alone; that’s about 22 million women and 1.6 million men. Using Bureau of Sexual assault and domestic abuse is a global problem, Justice Statistics, Safe Horizon, Image Courtesy of cypresscollege.edu a resource dedicated to the protection of victims of abuse of any kind, found that in 2010 not reported to the police; this have been raped or attacked alone there were188,380 reports is most likely due to a pattern in any sexual manner, you do or rape and/or sexual assault; of victim-blaming and straight- not question them as if they about 182,000 were reported out dismissal of victims that has were a suspect. What a woman
is wearing does not have any bearing or influence on whether or not a man is going to try and rape her; modest clothing didn’t prevent rape from happening hundreds of years ago, so why should that make a difference here in the 21st century? And for a matter of fact, the vast majority of sexual assaults and rapes that are committed against women are committed by somebody close to them: a friend, a family member, an acquaintance, a spouse, or a boyfriend or girlfriend. I suppose the real question is: if rape and sexual assault are such pervasive issues in not only our society, but around the globe, why isn’t there more of an awareness of it every single day, rather than for just one month out of the year? Stand up, speak out, do something, and make a difference. Rape and sexual assault are traumas that are
PLANNED OBSOLESCENCE Chrisitian Pridemore
Staff Writer Have you or someone you know ever had a device or gadget - phone, mp3 player, laptop, gaming system, etc. - break down, and suddenly the new gadget being advertised seems like the only option you have left to gain back that device that is becoming more and more essential to your daily lives? If you have, then you were probably a victim of something called planned obsolescence. In the simplest of terms, planned obsolescence is the principle that companies looking to make more money will exploit by intentionally designing products to fall out
of circulation or break down within a set time frame in order to better market a newer product at the same time that the older product is falling apart. Chances are that if you’ve owned any kind of technology, you’ve been exposed to planned obsolescence at some point in time. As college students, most of us obviously can’t afford to continue to replace a broken device when it begins to fall apart. However, this principle goes beyond the technology you might find in your pocket. According to an article by Amy Hoidas on qualitylogoproducts. com, products such as ink cartridges for printers, light bulbs, and - what really hits college students in the wallet - text-
books are all planned to break down or fall out of circulation within a set amount of time in order to increase the profit margins of those companies that produce them. But that’s not all; according to an article on economist.com, even the clothing and fashion industry practices planned obsolescence, producing garments and styles with the intention for them to fall out of circulation or fall apart within years of each other in order to better market what’s “new” or “in style”. The article states, “A classic case of planned obsolescence was the nylon stocking. The inevitable ‘laddering’ of stockings made consumers buy new ones and for years discouraged manufac-
turers from looking for a fiber that did not ladder.” As someone who enjoys innovation and progress, the idea of planned obsolescence worries me deeply. Companies will actively halt progress on trying to make peoples’ lives better in order to make a little more money, even if it’s something as simple as developing a better kind of fiber so clothing doesn’t fall apart. Of course, there’s the other side of this same coin, where companies market something that is obviously better and built more to last at an outlandishly higher price in order to make more money. Going back to the clothing analogy, it’s evident that garments produced by off brands are not going to
not only physically damaging, but can have a lasting mental and psychological effect upon a person as well. They can instill feelings of constant fear, shame, and guilt in people who have been victims, and can have other lasting effects on a person’s life, including depression and suicidal feelings. If you or someone that you know has been a victim, don’t stay quiet; reach out and talk to someone. Visit the website of the Joyful Heart Foundation or Safe Horizon, or call any one of the following: the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1.800.422.4453; the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.7233; the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network at 1.800.656.4673; the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 1.866.331.9474; or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1.800.273.8255.
last as long as a name brand like Hollister that has more resources devoted to producing quality clothing, but that is what makes a Hollister garment more expensive than those off brands. The whole idea of companies exploiting their consumers in these ways is deeply unsettling, and as I continue to see people around me get upgrades to their devices, the devices themselves are becoming harder and harder to maintain. For example, I recently switched from a Samsung Galaxy S4 to an S7, and immediately noticed that I can no longer remove the battery from the S7, which was SEE TECH TALK, P. 10
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The Concord University Bonner Scholars gave the university a small taste of a problem plaguing thousands of people in the United States: homelessness. Hannah Suydam is a veteran Bonner scholar and took the initiative to organize this year’s Box City event. “Box City is a 24 hour event to raise awareness for homelessness,” she said. She went on to explain that it is an annual event for the Bonner Scholars, and that everyone who participates has to get their own materials and build their own makeshift shelters to live in overnight to simulate what it would be like to be homeless. The rules are simple: each box must be occupied by at least one
in Kimball, West Virginia, in McDowell County, and all the Bonner boxes, the Bonner program is actually paying the $25 fee for their boxes, and each Bonner scholar brought in at least five canned foods that we’re going to donate,” Suydam said. The organization chose Five Loaves and Two Fishes because it was a nearby cause: “Five Loaves and Two fishes is a food pantry in McDowell County that we’re wanting to team up with, it’s our first time getting with that agency. We wanted to stay close to home,” said Suydam. A side effect of homelessness is hunger and insufficient nutrition. In an effort to make this year’s Box City as realistic as possible, Suydam and the Bonner Scholars hosted an Oxfam dinner for the par-
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person at all times during the 24 hour event, and participants are not to have any electronics or other things that a homeless person would have to do without. “It’s supposed to help our students see homelessness face-toface and be able to experience it. We do it in the spring, so it is a little warmer, but it still gets chilly at night so you can still experience it, but it’s safe,” explained Suydam. In addition to the eye-opening experience of being effectively homeless for an entire day, Box City and the Bonner Scholars also use the event as an opportunity to raise funds for a worthy cause. “All of the nonBonner boxes donate $25 to be able to do the box, and this year we’re giving it [the donations] to Five Loaves and Two Fishes
SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS
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News
Arts & Entertainment WHAT TO WATCH ON NETFLIX THIS SUMMER Patrice Mitchell
BLUES, BREW, & BBQ RETURNS Friday, April 15 saw the return of the popular Brew, Blues & BBQ concert for the second year in a row.
Photos By: Tsivia Chonoles
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Staff Writer There comes a time in every person’s life when they are affected by cancer. For those who don’t know or don’t quite understand, cancer is when your dividing cells begin to divide uncontrollably, resulting in what is known as a tumor. Tumors anywhere are bad news; the unchecked and untreated growth of cancer cells can cause extreme pain and organ failure, and if the dividing cancer cells happen to reach the bloodstream, can travel and infect other parts of the body. However, there’s no need for panic. Cancerous cells are usually caught by the immune system and destroyed before the cancer can become problematic. It is those unfortunate few whose bodies cannot fight off cancer that Concord University was supporting Thursday, April 14 by hosting an American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event. Relay for Life is a very special and important event. Founded by Dr. Gordy Klatt in 1985, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life raises funds for important research and treatment with one goal: ridding the world of cancer. This goal is only achievable through donations from charitable events
The Concordian
The Concordian office is located on the bottom floor of the Alexander Fine Arts Center, Room M-08. Brittany Strother and Cassidy Justice led the first lap of Relay for Life. Photo By: Christian Pridemore such as the Relay hosted at Concord and over 600 other schools in the nation. The Relay goes further than that, though; each year, over 4 million people around the world help to raise the annual grand total of $400 million dollars that goes towards combatting cancer. So what can one expect from the Relay? In addition to exercise, Concord University’s own Relay consisted of fundraising in the forms of concessions, games, face paintings, and t-shirt sales. Student or-
ganizations including various fraternities and sororities, the Bonner Scholars, and the BSU helped to make this event possible. In addition to the various fundraising activities, Relay for Life consists of a few respected traditions, such as the Luminaria ceremony, where a candle is lit for all those who have lost their lives to cancer; the Survivors Walk, for those who can stand proudly having beaten their cancer; and the Caregivers Lap, for those brave souls that help with the fight through
treatment and care. By the end of the Relay, Concord’s contribution consisted of $6,545.15. Indeed, if organizations such as the American Cancer Society continue to be a global effort for the cause, then within our generation’s lifetime, we may just see the cure for cancer. For more information about the American Cancer Society and the Relay for Life, visit http:// relay.acsevents.org/
Brittany Strother Editor-in-Chief Tsivia Chonoles Managing Editor Staff Writers: James Hoyle Christian Pridemore Patrice Mitchell Mrs. Lindsey Akers Faculty Advisor YOUR NAME HERE!
The First Amendment
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
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Binge-watching Netflix is frowned upon, but it is also absolutely necessary when boredom strikes and procrastination is the only option. We’re in the last days of the semester and finding fun activities to do this summer is on everyone’s radar. However, being a broke college student isn’t only a theory, it is a way of life and reality for many students. Luckily, a summer of binge-watching Netflix original shows can also be considered fun. Let’s face it, binge-watching shows on Netflix is the only real way to watch TV in 2016 Although the prices will be raised from $7.99 to $10.99 a month for costumers, the streaming service will remain affordable and offer new Netflix Original TV shows and movies throughout the summer. Here are a few shows to start watching, or catch up on, over
laughter, and Crazy Eyes. Stranger Things, Season 1: July 15th Winona Rider is sure to steal the show with her performance in the first season on the Netflix original series. The show is set in the 1980’s, and centers around the disappearance of a young child from Indiana. The Get Down, Season 1: August 12th Following a group of teenagers through the birth of a music genre, this new drama sheds light the growth and development of Hip Hop in New York City throughout the 1970’s. The show has been widely anticipated for over a year, since the first trailer was released nearly a year ago. Many Hip Hop artists are collaborating on the project, including Rap legend Nas. To get a full list of the original shows and movies premiering this summer, and some vintage classics that will also be available, you can visit Netflix.com
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the summer break. eryone else. penitentiary are up to their old The Return of Chelsea Handler: Orange is the New Black, Season shenanigans! If this season is Earlier this year, funny girl 4: June 17th anything like the past three, Chelsea Handler released a The women at Litchfield there will be plenty of drama, series of documentary style shows exclusively on Netflix called, “Chelsea Does..” This May she will began a new talk show, which is set to be the only show of it’s kind to hit Netflix. Grace and Frankie Season 2: May 6th Our favorite geriatric party girls are back! Jane Fonda and Lilly Tomlin return as Grace and Frankie whose lives have been turned upside down after their husbands decide to divorce them…and marry each other. Bloodline, Season 2: May 27th The blood runs deep in the Florida Keys. A group of adult siblings stifle through family secrets, old enemies, Netflix is carving a niche for itself in the digital world. and a whole lot of drama. The Rayburn family definitely keeps Photo Courtesy of mashable.com it real with each other, and ev-
CONCORD FIGHTS FOR A CURE
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Arts and Entertainment
Student Life
LIP SYNC HAS HEART James Hoyle
Staff Writer
The audience screamed so loud for their favorites that, between the screaming and the bass of the speakers, more than a few people probably went temporarily deaf. In any case, by the time the audience had finished cheering, there were only five contestants left standing, resulting in a tie breaker round. The five that remained did their absolute best to lip sync to the songs that they had chosen. This would no doubt have proven difficult for some, as the songs were selected merely moments before the tie breaker round began. Once the dust had settled and once all was said and
done, there were three winners. In third place and winning 30 dollars, the audience chose Aleisha Drafton. Jordan Tuck took second place and 50 dollars. Finally, the grand prize of 100 dollars was given to Brad Gibson. In addition to all of this, there was a raffle won by Maizy Landreth, who received approximately 100 dollars in gift cards. With all of this, it is clear that Concord knows how to have fun as well as help those in need.
PROFESSORS PIED FOR A CAUSE Tsivia Chonoles
reason they chose to do the Pie would be a good time for someIn the end, three professors a Professor fundraiser specifithing fun.” Perkins added that from the Athens main campus Managing Editor cally was all a matter of timing: the professors who volunteered along with one professor from For the last two weeks, the “It’s almost finals week,” he were excited to do so and happy the Beckley Center were Pied Concord Social Work Orga- said, “so we thought that now to help. for a good cause. nization ran a table both on Concord’s main campus and Beckley campus, where students could donate money as a means to decide which of their professors would receive a pie to the face. Why? To collect money to purchase supplies for children under Child Protective Services. “I called CPS and the woman I spoke to said that they love duffel bags,” said Cady Perkins, who was helping to run the table and collect the money. They also plan to use the money to fill the duffel bags with necessities such as blankets, since many children removed from their homes and placed into the foster care system have little of Cady Perkins (left) and Ryan Jenkins (right) work the charity table. their own. Ryan Jenkins, President of Photo By: Tsivia Chonoles Concord SWO, said that the
James Hoyle
Staff Writer In the poem “The Wasteland,” writer T.S. Eliot said “April is always the cruelest month.” April also happens to be National Poetry Month. It is designed not just as a celebration of the poetic spirit, but also as a way to engage and educate people in the ways of poetry. To that end, Concord University was pleased to present Marc Harshman on April 15, 2016. He was hosted inside the Wilkes Family Chapel at University Point. Harshman is perhaps one of the most critically acclaimed writers still living in West Virginia, serving as West Virginia’s poet laureate for about four years since the death of Irene McKinney, the previous poet Laureate for the state.
Harshman was born in Indiana, though most of his adult life has been spent in and around the Mountain State. He graduated from Bethany College in 1973 and later earned a Master’s Degree from Yale Divinity School in 1975. He would follow this with another Master’s Degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1978. Before he began his career as a writer, he was a school teacher at Sand Hill School, a Marshall County school notable for being one of the last three-room schools still functioning in America. Harshman is the author of over 11 books and has also published several anthologies of poetry. His picture book, “The Storm,” received a Junior Library Guild selection, was a Smithsonian Notable Book for Children, chosen as a Children’s
PURPLE TEARS James Hoyle
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Staff Writer “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life.” These words, which are lyrics to the Prince song “Let’s Go Crazy”, were indicative of his philosophy on life. As has been the case several times this year, the American public has once again lost another beloved icon. This time, it was none other than the Purple Prince of Pop, Prince. He was found dead in an elevator at his home in Chanhassen, Minnesota on April 21, 2016. At the time of writing this article, the cause of his death is still unknown, but according to “NBC News,” autopsy reports say that there was no sign of trauma found on the body, and
that there was no sign of suicide. With his passing, America has lost one of the greatest musical artists of the 20th century. Prince Rogers Nelson, was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota June 7, 1958. Prince said that he was born epileptic and was prone to seizures. Nevertheless, he displayed a talent for music early in his life, and wrote his first song at the age of seven. After his parents separated when he was ten, he bounced back and forth between his father and stepfather. During those times, he would forge friendships with people such as André Cymone. Using these contacts, he would create his first demo tape in 1976 and, in 1978, his first album “For You” was released. While it did not do as well as hoped,
Book Council Notable Book for Social Studies, and was a 1995 Parent’s Choice Award recipient. Booklist described “The Storm” as “a knowing book that will speak to all children about self-image and hardwon success.” In addition, his picture book, “Only One,” was featured in the hit educational television program “Reading Rainbow.” He has also been featured in such publications as The Newport Review and Cricket Magazine. During his presentation, Harshman talked at great length about what poetry is and what is its purpose. Harshman said that he thinks that poetry exists in everything, from commercial jingles to the greatest works of literature ever composed by men. “If you have ever sang a church hymn,” he said,
“Then you have recited poetry.” He also agreed with the great 17th century poet John Dryden, who said “The Purpose of [Poetry] is delight.” After saying this, however, Harshman was quick to add that poetry is able to evoke all kinds of emotions from a reader or listener, and then read some of his favorite poems to prove his point. After his discussion, he went into detail about how he works and how he is able to get so many of his writings published. Harshman emphasized practice for the aspiring writer. For National Poetry Month, Harshman has challenged himself to write at least one poem every day for all of April. In addition, he also said that, in his experience, the old fashioned way of getting published is still the best and the most effective. He said
that when it comes to getting a work published, a writer should knock on as many doors as they can, and eventually one will open up. After this, he showed off some of what he has been working on. His most recent work, a children’s picture book, titled “One Big Family,” was released last month, and is available wherever books are sold. He also read some of his stories aloud. He closed with a recitation of his poem, “A Song for West Virginia,” which was commissioned by the state government to celebrate the sesquicentennial of the state. All in all, Harshman’s visit was a testament to the creativity those of the Mountain State have. Marc Harshman can be reached via email at: marcharshman@hotmail.com
he remained determined, and released his second album, “Prince,” one year later in 1979. While it did better than “For You,” it was not quite as successful as it could have been. His third album, “Dirty Mind,” was the breakout success that Prince and his record company had been looking for, peaking at 45 on the US Billboard charts, and reaching certified gold in the United States. What followed next was a string of hits, including the albums “1999” and “Purple Rain,” which were not only some of the most successful albums of all time, but also are considered some of the greatest albums to come out of the 1980s. Prince was a consummate workman. He wrote and recorded music until his dying
day, with his last album, “Hit n Run Phase Two,” releasing in December of 2015. Not only did he work hard, he also struggled with his record label over financial control of his music. This culminated in Prince using pseudonyms to get away from his own name, eventually reaching a point where he started calling himself “the artist formerly known as Prince” and using a symbol as a means to identify himself. Eventually, he got away from Warner Bros. and went back to using his name. Prince was known for breaking many conventions. He appeared on stage with an androgynous look, and often wore high heels. He was also an overall supporter of women in the music industry. He was
also known to be able to play many instruments; in an interview with Dick Clark, when asked how many instruments he could play, Prince responded with “Thousands.” With his passing, America has lost one of the greatest raw talents to come out of the music industry in 50 years. Prince was always willing to experiment with his work, and was eager to come up with clever ways to make his music sound better. The over 100 million albums sold is mere gravy compared to how influential he was on the industry. They don’t make them like this anymore. And they never did.
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Jordan Tuck, with his exaggerated sync of the award-winning “Let It Go” from the Disney film “Frozen.” People were so entranced by the fun the performers seemed to have up on the stage that two employees from Subway, with permission from their employers, came up and sang, as well. After all participants finished their performances, Isaac introduced them yet again for the final vote to determine who would win the prizes. He asked the audience to applaud loudly for who they wanted to win. Whoever got the loudest applause would get the prizes.
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Concord University hosted a lip sync battle on Wednesday, April 13, at 9:00 p.m. as a part of a week of festivities that culminated with the second annual Blues, Brews, and Barbeque on Friday, April 15. Donations were encouraged for the food pantry as the lip sync battle began. Over the course of one hour, students gave it their absolute all in an effort to win the grand prize. Master of Ceremonies and South Chicago native, Michael Isaac, began by asking each competitor their
name, their academic year, their major, their hometown, and what they would be singing for the men and women of the audience. There were many different artists that students lip synced to during this competition; everything from Shania Twain to Eminem, and from The Talking Heads to the most famous Disney music. The audience beamed and applauded with each passing contestant. Included were students such as Aleisha Drafton, who wowed the audience with her lip sync of “If You Like it Then You Should Have Put a Ring On It” by Beyonce’ Knowles, and
CU HOSTS MARC HARSHMAN
April 28th 2016, Page 5 The Concordian
April 28th 2016, Page 12 The Concordian
Student Life
Graduating Class of Spring 2016 Jeremy Vance Regents Bachelor of Arts Christal Via Regents Bachelor of Arts Justin Bennett Master of Arts in Health Promotion Debra Borders Master of Arts in Health Promotion Tammy Brown Master of Arts in Health Promotion Ray Bryan, III Master of Arts in Health Promotion
Casey Gerber Master of Arts in Health Promotion Lindsey Gum Master of Arts in Health Promotion Alyssa Hanley Master of Arts in Health Promotion Stephanie Harper Master of Arts in Health Promotion Holly McBride Master of Arts in Health Promotion Crystal Saddler Master of Arts in Health Promotion Kyle Stewart Master of Arts in Health Promotion
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Michael Johnson Master of Social Work Daniel Jude Master of Social Work Crystal Kendall Master of Social Work Jessica Kirk Master of Social Work
Loretta Thomas Master of Social Work Mirrandia Ward Master of Social Work Kimberly White Master of Social Work Brandon Williams Master of Social Work Zachary Wood Master of Social Work
Kimberly Knick Master of Social Work Eric Lopez Master of Social Work Tara Malik Master of Social Work Beverly McClanahan Master of Social Work Tonya Miller Master of Social Work Selina Moreland Master of Social Work
This year’s commencement ceremonies will be at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM on May 7 in the Carter Center Gymnasium.
Brande Myers Master of Social Work Veronica Napier Master of Social Work
Kelsey Smith Master of Social Work Dinah Steele Master of Social Work
community development and People set up appointments for Staff Writer growth. “The bank bus travels him to come with this bus. He around to a lot of areas. The bus also does faith based groups. College students, with their is owned by BB&T and is driven He does other things with the focus rightly on their studies and other things, often do not think about concepts such as credit scores and credit reports. It is often not until graduation that most people start to think about these things. BB&T, a bank that has a location in Athens, is trying to change that. On April 19 and 20, the BB&T bus was parked outside the student center of Concord University. Its goal: to help students become aware of exactly what credit is, how it operates, and to give credit reports to those that came to see them. In addition to all of that, BB&T also gave advice to help students plan financially for however much time they have left at college. BB&T regularly has these events in many areas where they BB&T employees are ready to help Concord students. operate, and they are known as Photo By: James Hoyle Financial Empowerment Days. Debra Arrington, the Market by Shane Johnson, our bus bus. It’s all approved by BB&T Leader at the Athens BB&T driver. He had the bus in New and set up through BB&T. So if Branch, said that these financial Jersey last week, and then next anyone wants to use the bus for empowerment days help with week he will be in Alabama. an event, they just need to let us
Academic Success Center
Guest Writer
Raelee Phillips Master of Social Work
Nicole Shrewsbury Master of Social Work
James Hoyle
know about it, and we can set it right up.” Many people came in and out of the BB&T bus over the course of the two days that it was on campus. Arrington said that one of the things that was offered inside of the bus was giving students free credit reports. According to federal law, any citizen of the United States is allowed to check their credit score for free at least once every year. Several computers were set up on the bus just for that purpose, and students lined up to check their credit reports from the three credit reporting agencies used to determine credit: Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian. It is important to check a person’s credit score from all three reporting agencies, as the number reported may vary depending on which report is observed. Students were also able to get credit for their Education 101 class by filling out a short essay. In addition, the staff members at BB&T offered financial counsel on how credit affects a person’s ability to take
out loans, and on how to build good credit early. “When you’re 18,” Arrington explained, “You can immediately start working on building credit. If you’ve never had credit, you can get something called a secure credit card from BB&T. Other places offer it, too. The BB&T secured credit card has no annual fee. With this secured credit card, you open up a savings account, you put money in about four or five hundred dollars. We secure those savings and give you a credit card. So when you use that credit card, you’re taking from those savings while at the same time building credit.” Arrington said that building good credit is an important thing, as having good credit means that when someone goes to purchase a home, that person will able to get better interest rates on a mortgage. With this event, Concord students are now hopefully more informed about the world of finances.
SMARTHINKING: HAVE YOU TRIED IT?
Stormy Parsons Master of Social Work
Latasha Saunders Master of Social Work
BB&T TALKS CREDIT
Congratulations, Concord University Class of 2016!
If you think the headline is misspelled, you are right (and wrong). Smarthinking is a web-based, tutoring service, which is available 24-7. It features “sophisticated services such as live, online tutoring; ondemand tutoring; or tutoring via a scheduled appointment.” The Online Writing Lab allows students to “receive a detailed, personalized critique of any written assignment through a
formal critique process.” Subjects include writing, reading, math, science, business, English for speakers of other languages, Spanish, nursing and allied health, and computers and technology. There’s even help for resume writing! Concord provides this service free of charge to students. Creating a Smarthinking account is easy. If you are in a course that utilizes Blackboard, log on to any Blackboard course – click on Tools – scroll down to Sm-
arthinking and click to open it – you will see a SYSTEM Check page, which will transit to the Smarthinking page after a few seconds. If you are not in a course that uses Blackboard, go to your MyCU account – click on the Student tab – click Smarthinking Access – complete the form – submit. Please use your MyCU email address to enroll in Smarthinking. The ASC will then be able to enroll you in the “Smarthinking” course, and you will be able to establish
your account. If you’ve ever struggled with a problem or assignment late at night or on the weekend, or wanted immediate help with homework but you are away from campus and access to drop-in tutoring, Smarthinking is for you! The professional tutors are available to help you understand concepts, explain problems, and proof written assignments. Many Concord students use Smarthinking each month. The Academic Success Center, along
with students who are using smarthinking, is working on presenting a workshop, which will provide instructions on how to create an account, the benefits (and drawbacks, if any) of using Smarthinking, and first-hand experiences with the program. If you would like more information about the program, contact the ASC at 304-384-6074, 304384-6298, asc@concord.edu, or stop by our office in Rahall 243.
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Taylor Fullen Master of Arts in Health Promotion
Autumn Herndon Master of Social Work
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Ryan Butler Master of Arts in Health Promotion
Morgan VanBlaricom Chelsea Carter Master of Arts in Health Master of Social Work Promotion Stefani Coleman Tyler Wright Master of Social Work Master of Arts in Health Promotion Michelle Comer Master of Social Work Chelisa Lester Master of Arts in Teaching Carrie Culicerto Master of Social Work Melva Mounts-Blankenship Master of Arts in Teaching Angela Daniel Master of Social Work Dianna Cutlip Master of Education Erica Davis Master of Social Work Allegra Dishner Master of Education Bobbi Dyer Master of Social Work Tina Hellems Master of Education Laura Eary Master of Social Work Allena King Master of Education Leesa Fair Master of Social Work Matthew Lemons Master of Education Jesse Finkey Master of Social Work James Shiring III Master of Education Carley Fisher Master of Social Work Jennifer Squires Master of Education Adrianna Frazier Master of Social Work Tammy Toler Master of Education Erica Garcia-Palmer Master of Social Work Christopher Vicars Master of Education Dontryse Greer Master of Social Work Genel Austin Master of Social Work Jessica Halstead Master of Social Work Summer Bivins Master of Social Work Savannah Halverson Master of Social Work Charissa Bolton Master of Social Work Ashley Harvey Master of Social Work Russel Bragg Master of Social Work Candance Hawkins Master of Social Work Emily Broyles Master of Social Work Shereilla Hearn Master of Social Work
April 28th 2016, Page 6 The Concordian
April 28th 2016, Page 11 The Concordian
Student Life STUDY TIPS Amanda Naylor
Guest Writer
burnout when you’re working hard. Some students spend hours, days, or weeks perfecting final papers and preparing for final exams. While hard work is often expected of us, don’t forget to look after yourself. Get up and walk away from the screen for a while, go talk to a friend, or even watch an episode of your favorite show. 4) Block All Social Media From Your Phone...For a While: I turned off the Facebook app on my phone for a few days and was surprised at how much more productive I became as a result. We tend to underestimate just how much time we
waste on internet. Now, I’m not suggesting going dark entirely and cutting yourself off from your friends and family, but it is important to limit the number of distractions when you are trying to work. 5) Remember Your Passion: This is one that I don’t think is really stressed enough. Remember why you’re studying the subject you are and what drew you to it in the first place. Take a few minutes and remember that you are working toward a much larger goal. While the assignment in front of you may be frustrating, it’s not necessarily indicative of what your life is
HEALTHY EXERCISE HABITS Student Affairs
Guest Writer The transition from high school to college is significant for students. For the first time, students are solely responsible for time management, classwork, and leading a healthy lifestyle. An increase in stress, change in diet, and lack of exercise may contribute to weight gain during undergraduate years. Most of this gain occurs during the first semester, but without an intentional plan, added pounds can mount. According to a study by Racette et al. (2007), 70% of sampled students demonstrated a significant weight gain, of around nine pounds during the first two years of college. Additionally, studies even show a decrease in physical activity in college students as they get older. For example, older students tend to park closer to buildings instead of walk from
parking lots that are further away. Some helpful tips for managing weight with physical activity include: • Live actively. Walk or bike to class. Take the stairs, even when elevators are available. If you commute, park in a lot or space further away than you typical do. Make exercise a regular part of your daily routine. During TV commercials, do some push-ups, sit-ups, toe touches, or yoga poses. • Get a workout buddy. Having someone to work out with can increase accountability and remind you of your goals. Use an app on your phone that tracks your activity; some even allow you to share with friends as added motivation. • Create specific time for exercise. Reserving a time block in your schedule to exercise and stick to it! Exercise can become a positive addiction; you won’t feel right if you haven’t exercised that day.
• Use what your school has to offer. Utilize the fitness center, intramurals program, AthensConcord Walking Trail, and class offerings for academic credit. Take advantage of Concord’s free Zumba, Yoga, and other Student Activities offerings. CU’s Spring Walking Challenge 2016 is underway. Even if you don’t win first place, you’ll have fun and be healthier. To enhance the quality of life for the university community, Concord’s Department of Recreational Sports and Wellness educates and encourages participation in activities that promote healthy lifestyles, social interaction, and leadership skills. The department strives to create an atmosphere that encourages individuals to develop life-long involvement in recreational activities and is dedicated to meeting the changing needs of a diverse community by offering quality structured and informal recreational opportunities. The De-
partment of Recreational Sports and Wellness’s webpage can be found at http://hub.concord. edu/student-life/node/20. The Concord University Fitness Center is located in North Towers and has a variety of exercise equipment to meet the needs of our campus community. Free weights, Matrix machines, treadmills, and exercise bikes are available for every kind of work out from low to high impact. The Fitness Center staff is always available to help anyone with their workout routine and give instruction on the proper use of the equipment and the facility. The Fitness Center is open to the entire Campus Community as well as to the public. The normal hours of operation are Sunday 12 – 11 pm, Monday – Friday 6 am – 11 pm, and Saturday 12 – 6 pm. Join the Facebook Group “Concord University Recreation & Wellness” for updated information concerning hours, events, and
going to be focused on. It’s just a step in the process of getting you closer to your goals. 6) Ask For Help: No one starts out knowing everything. We have tutors standing by willing to help. Check the listings posted online and all over campus. If you would like to be connected with a tutor, or have other concerns about your grades, please feel free to drop by the Academic Success Center. Good luck everyone!
Vivian Ruiz Bachelor of Science Lauren Skeens Bachelor of Science Nathaniel Sturniolo Bachelor of Science Tsion Tafesse Bachelor of Science Jared Vest Bachelor of Science Tessa Williams Bachelor of Science Aaron Wilson Bachelor of Science William Wright Bachelor of Science
delays/closings. The Intramural Sports Program provides a wide range of individual and team activities at both a competitive and recreational level to students, faculty, staff, and other members of the university community. Sports include basketball, dodge ball, flag football, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Follow @cu_intramurals (Instagram), @curecreation (Twitter), and “Concord University Intramurals” (Facebook) for more information. Chris Smallwood, Recreation and Wellness Coordinator, states there is a proven relationship between participation in intramurals and using campus exercise facilities with higher GPAs, lower dropout rates, and lower rates of engaging in other unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, drug use, binge drinking, and having unprotected sex. Also, students who SEE EXERCISE, P. 7
Aidan Hodge B.S. in Geosciences
Environmental
Daniel Lilly B.S. in Geosciences
Environmental
Matthew Merson, Jr B.S. in Environmental Geosciences John Vaught B.S. in Geosciences
Environmental
Austin Bower B.S. in Computer Information Systems Jacob Daniel B.S. in Computer Information Systems Charlotte Hamilton B.S. in Computer Information Systems Randall Hash B.S. in Computer Information Systems
Justin Roberts Destiny Shockley B.S. in Computer Information B.S. in RTM Systems Nehemiah Vance Davonna Cales B.S. in RTM B.S. in Athletic Training Jametrius Wade Whitney Carrigan B.S. in RTM B.S. in Athletic Training Debbie Bunton Leslie Mack Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in Athletic Training Lindsey Cox Joseph Sweet Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in Athletic Training Caitlin Elswick Kristi Benvenuto Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Krystal Frost Michael Boyd Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Tricia Gibson Holt Cassada Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Ashley Hawkins Keith Ferguson Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Alison Kelly Orlando Gray Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Barbara Lilly Matthew Guilliams Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Jenna Miller Tiko Henderson Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Jason Moore Cary Hubbard Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Steven O’Field Danielle Johnston Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Danielle Owens Jason Martin Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Katie Ratcliffe Shuntaro Noguchi Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Amber Stewart Brian Novak Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Jordan Stuart Cade Rogers Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM Rodney Wade Pornnutcha Sawatong Bachelor of Social Work B.S. in RTM
Stephanie Young Bachelor of Social Work
Krista Honaker Regents Bachelor of Arts
Krystle Angle Regents Bachelor of Arts
Keisha Jeffrey Regents Bachelor of Arts
Alexis Ballard Regents Bachelor of Arts
Jennifer Johnson Regents Bachelor of Arts
Cassandra Bennett Regents Bachelor of Arts
Misty Johnson Regents Bachelor of Arts
Chelsea Boote Regents Bachelor of Arts
Richard Johnson Regents Bachelor of Arts
Carmen Bowles Regents Bachelor of Arts
Kristen Justice Regents Bachelor of Arts
Bethany Buckland Regents Bachelor of Arts
Lisa Lacy Regents Bachelor of Arts
Sara Cameron Regents Bachelor of Arts
David Lanter Regents Bachelor of Arts
Jennifer Dillon Regents Bachelor of Arts
Nicole Massey Regents Bachelor of Arts
Brian Donell Regents Bachelor of Arts
Susana McArthur Regents Bachelor of Arts
Ronald Dowell, Jr Regents Bachelor of Arts
Kameron Mills Regents Bachelor of Arts
Carlton Downs Regents Bachelor of Arts
Jeffrey Mitchem Regents Bachelor of Arts
Robert Duffy Regents Bachelor of Arts
Erin O’Neal Regents Bachelor of Arts
Michelle Dunn Regents Bachelor of Arts
Candace Pendleton Regents Bachelor of Arts
Karry Evans Regents Bachelor of Arts
Bethany Philyaw Regents Bachelor of Arts
Joshua Exline Regents Bachelor of Arts
Jonathan Proffitt Regents Bachelor of Arts
Nolan Gray Regents Bachelor of Arts
Jaclyn Smith Regents Bachelor of Arts
Linda Gregory Regents Bachelor of Arts
Megan Thoma Regents Bachelor of Arts
Elisabeth Harrah Regents Bachelor of Arts
David Turton Regents Bachelor of Arts
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Dhiraj Ranjit Bachelor of Science
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It’s that time of year again! In the midst of end-of-the- semester panic and paper writing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Here are a few study tips to help see you through this stressful time. 1) Atmosphere-Find the place that works for you: Having the right space to work in is a small but crucial step in helping you focus on your work. Some people prefer absolute silence, some want a little music in the background, and others need the sounds of other people
around them. Campus is full of comfy spots (and- gasp!- the library is not just a place to print off your papers. They have research material there as well.), and the weather is nice enough to take your books outside. Whatever works best for you, find a spot where you can get your work done. 2) Keep Healthy Snacks Onhand; It’s easy to get so wrapped up in what your doing that you forget to eat. Keep a few snacks around, in your desk drawer or book bag, and remember to refuel once in a while. 3) Don’t Forget to Take a Break: It’s easy to experience
Graduating Class of Spring 2016
April 28th 2016, Page 7 The Concordian
April 28th 2016, Page 10 The Concordian
Student Life
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Amy Prichard Bachelor of Arts
Justin McPeake B.A. in Communication Arts
Hannah Growe Bachelor of Science
Felicia Bennett Bachelor of Arts
Sara Horning Bachelor of Arts
Samantha Richards Bachelor of Arts
Patrice Mitchell B.A. in Communication Arts
Willa Handy Bachelor of Science
Samantha Byrd Bachelor of Arts
Shawnique Hudson Bachelor of Arts
Savannah Richmond Bachelor of Arts
Bridgette Morris B.A. in Communication Arts
Audrey Hayhurst Bachelor of Science
Tyler Coleman Bachelor of Arts
Jacob Jeffries Bachelor of Arts
Jocorey Robins Bachelor of Arts
James Riley B.A. in Communication Arts
Denny Hood, III Bachelor of Science
Veandala Coleman Bachelor of Arts
Keri Jenkins Bachelor of Arts
Michael Shaffer Bachelor of Arts
Jesse Stevens B.A. in Communication Arts
DaEun Jung Bachelor of Science
Christopher Crites Bachelor of Arts
Robert Jessee Bachelor of Arts
Dakota Shortridge Bachelor of Arts
Bradley Sullivan B.A. in Communication Arts
Jesse Kidd Bachelor of Science
Ashley DeLung Bachelor of Arts
Krysta Johnson Bachelor of Arts
Bethany Sigman Bachelor of Arts
Samuel Wright B.A. in Communication Arts
Janet Lilly Bachelor of Science
Nicholas Edwards Bachelor of Arts
Timothy Johnson Bachelor of Arts
Brianna Smith Bachelor of Arts
Rhian Hobbs Ronald Lockhart B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies Bachelor of Science
Katherine Engo Bachelor of Arts
Madison Jorgensen Bachelor of Arts
Taylor Smith Bachelor of Arts
Ryan Stewart Aaron Martin B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies Bachelor of Science
Matthew Farley Bachelor of Arts
Logan Knight Bachelor of Arts
Gabrielle Sorah Bachelor of Arts
Orville Bailey Bachelor of Science
Rene Miller Bachelor of Science
Amanda French Bachelor of Arts
Stephanie Lambert Bachelor of Arts
Jeremy Starks Bachelor of Arts
Lucas Bolyard Bachelor of Science
Tori Miller Bachelor of Science
Andrew Gondor Bachelor of Arts
Shannon McClung Bachelor of Arts
Kathryn Streit Bachelor of Arts
Michael Cantley Bachelor of Science
Jessica Morrison Bachelor of Science
Communication is an integral part of everyday life. We rely on communication to gain information, knowledge, express opinions, ideas, and much more. Clear communication is important, because without it, conflict can arise. When conflict surfaces, there are many things to consider in order to handle the situation in a respectful, positive way, so that the disagreement can be resolved without hurt feelings or harm, and hopefully prevent future misunderstandings. This article will discuss the issue of conflict, and some ways to overcome it. Conflict is when there is a disagreement between individuals or a group of people. Usually this is over differences in perceptions, values, ideas, desires, or motivations. There are many ways to deal with conflict. When we handle it effectively, understanding and cooperation bloom. When con-
Jordan Hamblen Bachelor of Arts
Kylie Molisee Bachelor of Arts
Caitlin Testerman Bachelor of Arts
Krystal Cantrell Bachelor of Science
Robert Newberry Bachelor of Science
EXERCISE
Cory Haines Bachelor of Arts
Alyssa Morris Bachelor of Arts
Madalin Teter Bachelor of Arts
Madison Chase Bachelor of Science
Ina Nikolli Bachelor of Science
Brianna Hammons Bachelor of Arts
Colton Muncy Bachelor of Arts
Kelsey Thornton Bachelor of Arts
Jonathan Collins Bachelor of Science
Frank Ofori-Addo Bachelor of Science
Saul Harlow Bachelor of Arts
Ryne Nahodil Bachelor of Arts
Timothy Ward, Jr Bachelor of Arts
Katherine Collins Bachelor of Science
Conor Payton Bachelor of Science
Nicole Hash Bachelor of Arts
Brittany Olsen Bachelor of Arts
Heather Webb Bachelor of Arts
Joshua Ennis Bachelor of Science
Elizabeth Phillips Bachelor of Science
Emily Hawkins Bachelor of Arts
Emmalea Pauley Bachelor of Arts
Kaitlyn Wood Bachelor of Arts
Brianna Farley Bachelor of Science
Holly Poe Bachelor of Science
Joseph Haynes Bachelor of Arts
Rachelle Pell Bachelor of Arts
Linh Dinh B.A. in Communication Arts
Derrick Gillespie Bachelor of Science
Anuj Rajthala Bachelor of Science
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Nikki Honosky Bachelor of Arts
Eric Lopez
Guest Writer
use the exercise facilities and participate in intramurals tend to adopt better diets, have better sleep patterns, and manage time better. This encourages better overall health and contributes to academic success. Additionally, many physical activity resources exist in the local community. Mercer County is home to three WV State Parks and several city and county parks. These include Brush Creek Preserve, Camp Creek State Park, City of Bluefield Parks & Recreation, City of Princeton Parks & Recre-
flict is handled ineffectively, tensions are exacerbated. Here are a few tips to remember for reducing conflict and opening communication. • Be willing to listen; often, we are so busy trying to get our point across in an argument that we do not effectively listen to the other person. Being an Active Listener means truly hearing what the other person is saying and can lessen conflict because the other person feels heard and understood. There may still be disagreement, but Active Listening can lessen tensions and help resolve disagreements. • Do not argue using social media; social media has become a major communication medium. If you are experiencing conflict with someone, it’s best to talk the issue out in person as opposed to over social media. Simply reading from a text, Facebook, Twitter, or Yik Yak post doesn’t provide other social cues, such as body language or tone of voice. It’s easy to misinterpret a written
message, which can escalate conflict; the reader may hear a different message than what was intended. Also, it’s too easy to write something hurtful over social media and then not have to directly face someone you may have offended. • Work for a collaborative ending; a Collaborative Ending is a Win-Win scenario in which both parties compromise over the conflict. While this will take time and effort, it is one of the best possible ideas when dealing with a conflict as both parties can feel as though their ideas were heard. • Place yourself in the other person’s perspective; when conflict arises, it can be worthwhile to think about being the other person. This can be used to gain insight as to why the conflict has arisen. With this insight, a possible solution may be reached. •Have a mediator; if possible, have a neutral third party act as a mediator for discussions where you think a conflict might arise. This should be someone who is able to understand both sides of
the issue and help form a solution best suited to the problem. Mediators can either be known or unknown to both parties. To avoid bias or conflict of interest, the mediator should be agreed upon by both parties. • Show respect and civility; respect can go a long way when dealing with conflict. Conflict can arise due to a differing opinion, and it is important to remember that not everyone will share the same opinion as you. Be respectful when speaking and listening. This demonstrates to the other person that, while there is a difference in opinion, you are interested in hearing his or her opinion. • Have positive non-verbal cues ; non-verbal cues are just as important as what is actually said. Non-verbal cues are eye contact, body language, and facial expressions. When dealing with conflict, make sure to maintain eye contact when being spoken to, as this shows respect, as well as interest in what is being said. Keep your body language open. For
example, do not cross your arms as this is an example of closed body language. Finally, remember facial expressions. If you have a look of disgust or a scowl, then regardless of what you say, your face gives away your true feelings. Conflict is inevitable. However, knowing how to deal with conflict effectively is a skill that can be learned. Doing so is beneficial on many levels: it improves both personal and professional relationships; makes you someone that others seek out as a friend, coworker, and leader; and improves your overall quality of life by reducing stress and anxiety. The next time you find yourself in a conflict situation, practice active listening; stay calm and keep negative emotions in check; be respectful; and work towards a mutually agreeable resolution. Learning productive conflict management skills may be one of the most important things you learn in college!
ation, Glenwood Recreational Park, East River Mountain Overlook, Pinnacle Rock State Park, and Pipestem Resort State Park. Paid membership facilities within a short drive or bus ride include the Princeton Health & Fitness Center, CrossFit (2 Affiliated Boxes in Princeton), Brickhouse Cardio Club, Anytime Fitness, and The Training Edge. Winterplace Ski Resort, Hatfield-McCoy Trails, white water rafting, rock climbing, and a strong Geocaching community provide additional opportunities in Southern West
Virginia. In short, there are many ways to live healthier and happier through exercise. The key is to commit to doing so and finding the activities that best fit your lifestyle and preferences. Those nine pounds gained by junior year can quickly become twenty pounds or more once adult metabolisms kick in and a more sedentary routine replaces active college lifestyles. So be smart and make exercise a healthy habit—starting now!
FROM PAGE 6
The Fitness Center is a useful resource for students to take advantage of. Photo Courtesy of concord.edu
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Terri Belcher Bachelor of Arts
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Graduating Class of Spring 2016
April 28th 2016, Page 8 The Concordian
April 28th 2016, Page 9 The Concordian
Student Life
Graduating Class of Spring 2016
CONCORD CELEBRATES EARTH DAY Tsivia Chonoles
The Concordian has gone digital! There are tons of ways to stay up to date on the latest Concord news, even if you’re not on the Campus Beautiful. We’re on the Issuu App for Android and iOS. Download the App and search Concordian. We’re online at Concordianonline.com Tweet us at @CUConcordian Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/concordian1
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Charles Wallace B.S. in Education
Tyler Judy Kari Simon B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Alisha Adams B.S. in Education
Jennifer Hendrix B.S. in Education
Robert Williams B.S. in Education
Ashley Justus Gregory Slone B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Amber Austin B.S. in Education
Sara Hill B.S. in Education
Samantha Wood B.S. in Education
Zachary Keaton Erica Smith B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Chloe Barber B.S. in Education
Derek Hinkle B.S. in Education
David Wright B.S. in Education
Forrest Lewis Mary Songer B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Susan Basham B.S. in Education
Stacie Hutchens B.S. in Education
Jessica Blessing Yingjun Liao Robert Sumpter B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Cassady Berry B.S. in Education
Seth Ledford B.S. in Education
Shea Boothe Brandon Martinez Eric Tarter B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Tyler Billings B.S. in Education
Kacey Mann B.S. in Education
Carli Brewer Kierston McCall Ashleigh Taylor B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Rachel Bishop B.S. in Education
Whitney McDaniel B.S. in Education
George Brock, III Ervin Moore Rachel Taylor B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Kayleena Blankenship B.S. in Education
Lacey McDougall B.S. in Education
Kaitlyn Crowe Sarah Nolen Mitchell Thompson B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Taylor Brown B.S. in Education
Brittney McPherson B.S. in Education
Jesse Daniel Cristi O’Donnell King Katherine Wade B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Amanda Butcher B.S. in Education
Bryanna O’Dell B.S. in Education
Matthew Dean Michiaki Ono Austin Wickline B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Kristin Campbell B.S. in Education
Marina Pilkington B.S. in Education
Tyler Dotson Nicholas Palchesko Thomas Wise B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
James Carver B.S. in Education
Jenna Prudich B.S. in Education
Andrew Ellington Kyle Poling Katelyn Young B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration
Candice Dillon B.S. in Education
Adam Rose B.S. in Education
Joseph Evans James Reid Nicholas Alexander B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration Bachelor of Arts
Kristie Dobbins B.S. in Education
Jennifer Sheppard B.S. in Education
Damon Frazier Thor Richmond Alaa Almalki B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration Bachelor of Arts
Karsyn Dusold B.S. in Education
Stephanie Shultz B.S. in Education
Charles Goss, Jr. Nicholas Roop Jullian Bailey B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration Bachelor of Arts
Chelsea Gusler B.S. in Education
Deanna Sprouse B.S. in Education
William Griffith Albert Rose Kyle Bailey B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration Bachelor of Arts
Ashley Hale B.S. in Education
Crystle Taylor B.S. in Education
Christopher Harris Adam Scruggs Michael Bailey B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration Bachelor of Arts
Bradley Hardy B.S. in Education
Jennifer Ude B.S. in Education
Tanner Hutsenpiller Andrew Seigel Aaron Barnett B.S. in Business Administration B.S. in Business Administration Bachelor of Arts
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Earth Day. A day meant for people to focus on the appreciation and preservation of our world and the environment that we live in and, if you’re a student here at Concord, a chance to try and make a small difference and give something back. The idea for a dedicated day nationwide to focus on the earth and the environment came about in 1969 after an oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson took that spill as an opportunity to force environmental protection onto the national agenda and, on April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans participated in demonstrations for a healthy, sustainable environment, and Earth Day was born. This year, in the true spirit of the event, Concord celebrated the week of Earth Day with many different activities for students, starting with a campus-wide clean-up on Wednesday, April 20. The clean-up and other Earth Day activities
to do the Earth Day events early in the week in order to avoid a potential conflict with Founders Day and the Towers Groundbreaking. “I think people, you know, when we talk about going green, people are ‘that’s a lot of work’ and ‘you’re making a big effort’, but it doesn’t take a lot of work. All you do is, you know, walk to CVS instead of taking your car, reuse a water bottle, or turn off the light when you leave the room. There’s simple things that you can do,” she said when asked about the importance of Earth Day, “we want to make the earth and the campus better for our kids, and it’s frustrating to me to walk out and see cigarette butts on the ground when people could just put them in the trash.” For more information about Earth Day and how you can start changing your habits to help make a difference, as well as other efforts to help save the environment, visit www.earthday.org.
Kristen Heldreth-Rutledge B.S. in Education
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Managing Editor
were organized with much help part of her internship. bottles with the awareness from Concord student Michelle “There are several organiza- facts,” Laneave explained. As Laneave, who works with the tions on campus, Bonner Schol- a part of the clean-up and environmental awareness efforts, any person who signed up to help with the campus clean-up was given a free biodegradable flowerpot with a small package of potting soil and a packet of seeds. In total, around 60 students signed up to help clean up the Campus Beautiful, separated into about five groups. Wednesday night also saw a presentation about gardening given by two women from the WVU Extension. “Master Gardners [came] to talk about pollution and gardening. Basically, Master Gardners is a program where they try to get the younger kids interested in gardening, so they offered to do it for free,” Laneave said. Thursday, April 21 saw Laneave at the daycare here at Concord University to celebrate Earth Day with the children Earth Day has been an official U.S. holiday for 46 years. of Concord. “I have two books Photo Courtesy of ststeveschool.org to read and then a craft to do with them, and then Friday is Student Affairs and Academic ars and the Tobacco Coalition, actual Earth Day,” she said. She Success offices at Concord as a that are doing the [free] water explained that they decided
Rebekah Acord B.S. in Education