THE JSU SGA CONSTITUTION REVISION PG.6
PG.4
Vol. 75 / No. 20
INSIDE
JSU Events....................... 2
February 26, 2015
www.thejsuflash.com
Winter storm causes closures and delays
Opinion............................ 3
News..................................6 JSU Mardi Gras............... 6
Variety.............................. 7
Yes, We’re Social Jackson State Flash @the_jsuflash JacksonState-Flash
Photo: William Kelly
@thejsuflash
JSU students navigating through freezing rain on Wednesday, Feb. 25, on the way to and from classes.
5-day Weather
Mark Braboy Associate Editor
Thursday
AM Clouds High 47o Low 27o
Friday
Partly Cloudy High 43o Low 29o
Saturday
Partly Cloudy High 57o Low 43o
Sunday
Rain High 63o Low 57o
Monday
Thunderstorms High 71o Low 59o
FLASH FACT
Winter Storm Octavia left thousands without power and killed five people
PG.7
Jackson State University had delayed openings on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week due to a wintry mix of sleet and ice that paid a visit to Tiger Country. The wintry mix forced Jackson State, other schools, and offices from the central to northern parts of the state to close due to the dangers associated with the weather. According to www.weather.com, Winter Storm Octavia dealt a sturdy
blow to the South, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and killing five people due to its icy blast. The State Emergency Operations Center was activated on Feb. 22 after Gov. Phil Bryant issued a state of emergency. The storm sent temperatures plummeting, causing black ice to form on roads and highways and leading to many traffic accidents on Tuesday morning. JSU began classes at 10 a.m. on Feb. 24-25 and evening classes and activities were cancelled to
ensure the safety of students, staff and faculty. On Wednesday, Feb. 25, the University closed at 2 p.m. Many students received emergency messages informing them of the delays and closures. “I think that JSU is doing an amazing job with informing students, giving them at least a 24 hour in advance notice, on whether or not classes are going to be cancelled. The text messaging system is awesome,” said Jasmine McCloud, a junior mass communications major
from Flowood, Miss. However, many students felt the delayed openings were not enough. “I feel like JSU should take the weather warnings more seriously because Jackson is not equipped to deal with snow and ice. To me, it’s especially dangerous for faculty and students that do not live on campus. I really think they should have just cancelled classes for the entire day,” said Imani Nelson, a senior biology from Detroit, Mich. Stacie Hopkins believes that commuter students should not have had to drive to school in the dangerous conditions. “JSU knows they are not equipped for bad weather so they are taking a chance. We have a lot of people who don’t stay on campus and have to risk driving in conditions that the roads cannot handle. I’m used to snow but honestly Jackson State needs to think this through more clearly,” said Hopkins, a senior psychology senior from Chicago, Ill. To stay apprised of weather alerts and campus closures and delays, download the JSU Go app in your market or app store or visit the main website at www. jsusms.edu Mark Braboy and Guy King contributed
Community College students welcomed to Tiger Land Orionna Brumfield MC301 Contributor/Staff
An array of students from Mississippi and other states visited Jackson State University for the annual Transfer Day. Transfer Day is held to personally assist transfer students with their decision to attend Jackson State University and ease their transition into the university. “We recruit all over Mississippi, and actively in Atlanta, Memphis and Detroit,” said Priscilla Slade, special assistant to the provost for International Programs and Community Colleges Judy Qualls, coordinator for the JSU Madison campus, commends Jackson State for providing transfer students
with many assets as they complete their educational experience. “We have a community college representative here and every program represented such as financial aid, athletics, international programs, as well as other campuses such as JSU Madison, to answer any questions transfer students may have,” said Qualls. The Transfer Ambassadors also assisted the prospective students. Stephen Thomas, a junior computer engineering major from Mobile, Ala. is a transfer ambassador who was glad to assist students in choosing Jackson State. “It gives me the opportunity to help people who were in the
same situation as I was last year. When I did my tours, I learned how much people don’t really know about the college they’re considering. It’s a process coming as a transfer student,” said Thomas. Attendees also included freshmen and a few who decided that it’s never too late to finish a goal. Broderick Morris, a graduate of Hinds Community College from Jackson, Miss. decided to continue his education despite his early life experiences. “My major is paralegal technology. I had some life experiences that were negative, so I wanted to go back to school and study law and overturn some of the judges who were
against me. I’ll fight for people who may not have a voice for themselves,” said Morris. Some students attended the event to get a head start on how to transfer properly and get scholarships. Kevonte Askew, a Southwest Community College freshman from Memphis, Tenn. said, “I am currently working to raise my GPA. I’m working with the administration and doing everything I can to get the best possible scholarships.” Community college graduates with a GPA of 3.5 or higher can receive the Phi Theta Kappa full tuition and room and board scholarship. Students who have 3.0 are eligible for the full tuition scholarship.
Tiger Events
Page 2 - February 26, 2015
JSU Campus Briefs
The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University
P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu
Awards & Honors The Blue & White Flash has received numerous awards and honors from the Mississippi Press Association, Black College Communications Association and the Southern Regional Press Institute. The Flash proudly hosted the 2003 and 2010 HBCU Newspaper Conference and Job Fair at Jackson State University.
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The Blue & White Flash SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager
KIERRA D. THOMAS Graphic Designer
MARK BRABOY Associate Editor
GUY KING Associate Editor
WILLIAM KELLY Photographer/Student Designer
Jeremy Anderson Orionna Brumfield Mia Brooks Kris Campbell Dejha Carlisle Christoper Chapman Dwayne Joeseph Jr. Kenya Johnson
Octavis Lawson Elissa McCool Dominique McCraney Ashton Nash Alexis Neely Brittney Snell Alexis Scott Reese Tornes
Letters To The Editor
Letters to the editor are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, and phone number; phone number will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for space and libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. for publication on Thursday.
Editorial Staff
The Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classification, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2167 or visit room 211 in the Blackburn Language Arts Building.
Publication/Distribution Information The Blue & White Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of the writer(s). Views expressed within do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty/staff, the administration, the student body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors determine the time of the publication and the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. The Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and final examinations. The Flash is distributed at various locations around the Jackson State University campus, free of charge to students, staff and faculty. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of Student Publications.
The Blue & White Flash
NATIONAL ENGINEERING WEEK Engineering week will be held on February 23-27 corporate partners Lockhead Martin Entergy and Nissan will be attending. For more information please contact the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology at 601-979-2153. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS SPEAK AT WELCOME CENTER SEMINAR In honor of Black History Month Jackson State University’s Welcome Center will host a seminar called “From Africa to America” it will be held on Tuesday February 24, from noon until 1p.m. Guest speakers are JSU International Programs Department students Clauditte Tchakounte from Cameroon and Yemi Osho from Nigeria. For more information and to register, please call 601-9790883. YAZOO REVISITED INTEGRATION AND SEGREGATION IN A DEEP SOUTHERN TOWN A film by David Rae Morris will be shown on Wednesday, February 25, 2015. The Margaret Walker
Center will be hosting the film in the Student Center Theater at 11:30a.m. This documentary reveals the history of race relations and the 1970 integration of the pubic schools in Yazoo City, Miss. For more information, contact: Luckett at robert. luckett@jsums.edu or 601979-2055. CYBER LEARNING SUMMIT The department of Provost and VP for Academic Affairs will be hosting a summit to discuss cyber learning. This is a free event all students are welcome to come. It will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2015 from 8:00a.m. -2:00p.m. in the Student Center on the 3rd Floor Lobby. For more information please contact Dr. Robert Blaine at 601-979-2244. IMPAIRED DRIVING PRESENTATION Faculty, staff, and students will be provided with important information on alcohol and drug. This is a free event and open to the public. It will be held on Friday, February 27, 2015 from 5:00p.m. – 6p.m. in the Jackson State University Student Center, in theater 2200. For more information please contact Eric Abston at eric.abston@jsums.edu
Page 3 - February 26, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
Opinion
“Do you think hip-hop has helped or hurt the AfricanAmerican community?”
Compiled by Demonte Rule
Shegredda Shorter Junior Physical Education Vicksburg, Miss.
“It helped because it has opened a lot of job opportunities for AfricanAmericans.”
Amanda Duplessis Senior Rec Therapy Jackson, Miss.
“It has hurt because the message that it conveys is very harmful and negative. It promotes violence and objectifies women.”
Clincy Harris Senior Social Science Jackson, Miss.
“It has helped by letting the world know about AfricanAmericans in poor living conditions, yet hurt the community by depicting negative images.”
Google Images
Hip-hop has helped the black community! COMMENTARY
Mathew Person Junior Elementary Education Water Valley, Miss.
“It has hurt the black community in the way that many young black kids do not know what a positive role model is anymore.”
Dylan Flencing Senior Speech Communication Tickfaw, La.
“Hip-hop has hurt the community. It gives a bad light on our community by only highlighting drugs, sex, and money in its lyrics and videos.”
John Bradley Senior Biology/Pre-physical Mendenhall, Miss. “It helps when that person gives back, but it hurts most because most kids who let the music lyrics be their guide.”
Randrika Henderson Senior Speech Communication Canton, Miss.
“It has both positive negative roles. It has opened doors for blacks to be artistic and break down barriers. However, it has given false reality to individuals to a perception of hood life.”
Dominique Tate Junior Civil Engineering Chicago, Ill.
“Hip-hop has helped enhance the black community. It has given people not only a way to express themselves, but also a way to communicate.”
Iman Beckham Junior Pre-Veterinarian Atlanta, Ga.
“I think hip-hop now harms the community because it doesn’t send a positive message to our generation..”
Tatiyanna Blood Junior Mass Communications Birmingham, Ala.
“I believe that hip-hop has hurt the black community. because it has changed the mind-sets of AfricanAmerican women and made them accept being devalued.”
Michael Kennedy II Junior Recreation Admin. Jackson, Miss.
“I think it helps because it’s something the black community influenced, so the fact that its still thriving now shows the impact we have on the world.”
Chiquandra Riley Senior Mass Communications Louisiana
“I believe hip-hop has influenced society; Hiphop has in the past been influential and positive.”
Mark Braboy Associate Editor Hip-hop is perhaps the most polarizing and culturally influential art form that African-Americans have contributed to. Within its 37 years of existence, the culture has kicked down doors in music, art, fashion, politics, business, literature, and dance. It has influenced an entire generation of men and women. Unfortunately, no matter how far the culture has progressed, there will always be its share detractors. Recently, Geraldo Rivera, a veteran journalist of Fox News, made comments claiming that the Hip-hop culture has done more damage to minorities than racism. There is already a red flag coming from this man who works for a network where it is okay to make bigotry fueled offensive comments about people of color, gender and impoverished socioeconomic statuses. Rivera has obviously been living under a rock these past few decades because hip-hop is part of the mainstream! In fact, the vast majority of
mainstream culture has been influenced by art forms that were created by AfricanAmericans. To me, hip-hop is one of the last genres of music and black art to have a sociopolitical stance on anything. Unlike music from the 60s and 70s, talking about social issues in mainstream music is hardly seen anymore, except in hip-hop. Artists like J.Cole, Young Jeezy, Killer Mike, David Banner, Kendrick Lamar, and Talib Kweli have been front and center to speak about the current social and racial issues of the United States. Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, a man who has benefited and contributed heavily to hiphop, believes it has brought people together better than many cultural figures besides Martin Luther King and President Barack Obama. “The impact of the music, you know, this didn’t only influence kids from urban areas, it influenced people from all around the world. People listen to this music all around the world and people took to this music. And racism is taught in the home. I truly believe that racism is taught when you’re young. So it’s very difficult to teach racism when your kid looks up to Snoop Doggy Dogg,” said Jay-Z. A culture and music genre like hip-hop does not come without its drawbacks however. Many conservatives and anti hip-hop critics argue that it promotes racial stereotypes and portrays African-Americans in a very negative light. Hip-hop purists also believe that today’s hip-
hop has lost its way and has become oversaturated with artists who would rather promote sex, drugs, and senseless violence. Like most genres there are many layers to it. The damage this music causes is practically minuscule compared to what racism has done within the last three or four years. What it does, if you do not balance what you listen to, is no different than what would happen if you overindulge in any other non-informative kind of entertainment. The real damage comes from institutional racism, lack of role models in the household and in impoverished areas and the socio-economic issues that plague our communities; issues that are addressed in hip-hop time and time again. You may not agree with the way many hip-hop artists convey their messages, but you have to respect not only how the music sheds light on the issues that affect us, but how it gives an opportunity to brilliant and creative minds to establish themselves where they would normally not be accepted. Hip-hop is our culture that we created from practically nothing. As long as we continue to respect and protect the culture, our generation and our children will reap the benefits of it for a long time.
The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
JSU SGA Constitution Revisions
Page 4 - February 26, 2015 The Blue & White Flash
Reorganization of the Article Names Article I: Name and Objectives Article II: General Organization Article III: Membership Article IV: Executive Branch Article V: Legislative Branch Article VI: Judicial Branch Article VII: Class Council Article VIII: Campus Activities Board Article IX: Impeachment Article X: Ratification of the Constitution Article XI: Method of Amendment Reorganization of the Code of Laws Titles’ Names Title I: Definitions, Interpretations, Construction of, and Compliance with the Title II: The President’s Advisory Council Title III: Legislative Branch Title IV: Judicial Branch Titles V: Election Laws Title VI: Class Elections Title V: Miss Jackson State University Elections Title VI: Salaried Officers Title VII: Finance Code Title VIII: General Legislation
Statutes
Article II 1. Section I a. Add i. The membership of the Student Government Association shall consist of students duly enrolled as full-time undergraduates at Jackson State University and elected to either the executive, judicial, legislative, class, or campus activities board branch. 2. Section II a. Add i. The Student Government Association shall be organized into five branches: 1. Executive 2. Legislative 3. Class 4. Judicial 5.Campus Activities Board ii. No member of the Student Government Association may serve in more than one of these aforementioned branches at any one time with exception of the Vice President, Chief Justice, Class Presidents, and Campus Activities Board Chair whose positions require them to serve on the executive branch and their respective branches-Legislative Branch, Judicial Branch, Class Branch, and Campus Activities Board Branch of the Student Government Association; Class Senators whose position requires them to serve on both the Class Branch and Legislative Branch. b. Relocation i. Move “All members of the Student Government Association shall not be on any type of disciplinary, scholastic or attendance probation at time of election or during his/her term of office. Student Government Association officers must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and full-time status as an undergraduate student while in office or they will be immediately removed.” to Article III 3. Section IV a. Relocation i. Move section to Article III b. Deletion i. Letter B, Number 4: Absences may be excused if a letter is submitted to the SGA President and Executive Secretary within in 48 hours of the meeting and deemed excusable by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the class council (elected officers) excluding the Officer in question. 4. Section V a. Relocation i. Move section to Article III 5. Section VI a. Relocation i. Move section to Article III Article III 1. Addition a. Section 1: General Qualifications for Membership i. A. All members of the Student Government Association shall not be on any type of disciplinary, scholastic or attendance probation at time of election or during his/her term of office. Student Government Association officers must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8 and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and full-time status as an undergraduate student while in office or they will be immediately removed. ii. B. After nominations, a thirty (30)-question Student Government Association Constitution and Statutes exam will be administered via scantron and test booklet to everyone running for a position. The test booklet will be composed of questions pertaining to the SGA Constitution and Statutes. All questions will be determined by the Election Commission formed for that particular election and approved by the Assistant VicePresident for Student Life. All persons running for positions are required to earn a 75% or above on the exam in order to receive clearance to campaign. There will be one test per person, per semester. The test will be graded by the election commission in the presence of the SGA Advisor(s). b. Section 2: Election and Appointment of Executive Officers i. A. The Student Government Association President and Vice President shall be elected according to majority of votes cast by the Student Body.
Page 5 - February 26, 2015 The Blue & White Flash
JSU SGA Constitution Revisions
ii. B. The candidate for President must have successfully completed a minimum of 90 credit hours prior to assuming office, and have been enrolled at Jackson State University five (5) semesters prior to their candidacy. Additionally, the candidate for President must have held an elected position in the SGA for at least one full term (academic year) prior to candidacy. No student may serve as President of the SGA for more than one elected term. The position of President requires commitment and therefore, the SGA President shall not hold the presidency of any other organization during their term of office. iii. C. The Vice President must have completed at least two (2) semesters at Jackson State University and a minimum of 60 earned hours. They shall have served at least one full term in the legislative council. iv. D. All elected Executive Officers shall serve a term of one year. v. E. Appointed Executive Officers must have completed at least two semesters and a minimum of thirty (30) earned hours. They shall be nominated by the SGA President and approved by the Senate. c. Section 3: Election and Appointment of the Senate i. A. Each respective class will elect two senators. Each class will have two (2) votes, one per senator. In the absence of a class senator a class representative may serve with written permission of the class president. B. All other Senators shall be elected by constituent groups, during general elections, unless otherwise stated in this Constitution. C. Senators must not have been convicted of a felony. D. Vacancies that occur due to resignation, dismissal, or extenuating circumstances of any Senator shall be filled upon recommendation of the Election Commission and approval by (2/3) vote of the Senate. d. Section 4: Qualifications for Class Council Representative i. A. Be a member of their respective classes (according to hours completed) during the election process. B. Shall not be on any type of disciplinary, scholastic or attendance probation at time of election or during his/her term of office. C. The class king and queen shall have participated in a pageant/showcase. D. All members of the class council are to have participated in mandatory events as scheduled by the election commission during spring elections to qualify those persons for their respective positions. e. Section 5: Election and Appointment of Campus Activity Board Executive Committee i. A. The Campus Activity Board Chair and Vice Chair shall be elected according to majority of votes cast by the Student Body. ii. B. The Secretary and the Treasurer/Parliamentarian shall be appointed by the Chair and Vice-Chair and confirmed by the Senate iii. C. The Director of Campus Activities resides in the SGA President’s Cabinet. f. Section 5: Attendance Policy i. A. SGA officials are required to attend all scheduled and special SGA meetings, general Student Body meetings, and participate in all SGA mandated functions and activities. B. In regard to absences: 1. Each officer is allowed two unexcused absences a semester. 2. For each office hour missed, Officers shall be assessed a half (1/2) absence. 3. In the case of an absence, the Officer should notify the SGA President and Executive Secretary at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting or activity. 4. Absences may be excused if a letter is submitted to the SGA President and Executive Secretary within in 48 hours of the meeting g. Section 6: Types of Meetings i. A. General Student Body Meeting – members of the Student Body meet to obtain information about the welfare of the Student Government and its activities; to address issues and concerns. B. Student Government Association Meeting (members ONLY) – the members of the SGA meet to discuss issues and items within the SGA. C. Special Meetings – may be called at any time at the discretion of the SGA President regarding issues concerning the governing body, specific members, or councils. h. Section 7: Frequency of Meetings i. A. The members of the SGA shall meet as a body at least once a month. B. The executive council shall meet at least once before the general body meeting. C. The members of the Student Body shall meet as a body at least once a month. D. Special meetings may be called at the discretion of the President. Article IV 1. Section I a. Addition i. All executive powers granted herein shall be vested in the President of the SGA and assisted by the SGA Vice President, Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Parliamentarian, Chief Justice, Miss Jackson State University, Freshman Class President, Sophomore Class President, Junior Class President, Senior Class President, and Campus Activities Board Chair. 2. Section II a. Addition i. The Executive Branch of the Student Government Association shall consist of the President, Vice President, Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Parliamentarian, the Chief Justice, Miss Jackson State, Freshman Class President, Sophomore Class President, Junior Class President, Senior Class President, and Campus Activities Board Chair. 3. Section III a. Relocation i. Move section to Article III b. Deletion i. Letter B: The candidate for President must have successfully completed a minimum of 90 credit hours and a maximum of 126 earned hours prior to assuming office, and have been enrolled at Jackson State University five (5) semesters prior to their candidacy. Additionally, the candidate for President must have held an elected position in the SGA for at least one full term (academic year) prior to candidacy. No student may serve as President of the SGA for more than one elected term. The position of President requires commitment and therefore, the SGA President shall not hold the presidency of any other organization during their term of office. 4. Section IV a. Relocation i. Letter P: Move section to By-Laws
Continues on Pages 8-11
News
Page 6 - February 26, 2015
The Blue & White Flash
Hundreds inducted in the W.E.B Du Bois Honors College Alexis Neely Staff Writer
Hundreds of students at Jackson State University can now rightfully refer to themselves as members of the W.E.B Du Bois Honors College. The Honors College pinning ceremony is held annually to induct students into this prestigious scholastic society. Honors qualifications include a minimum 21 ACT score, a 3.0 GPA that must be maintained after the first semester or the incoming freshman must be valedictorian/salutatorian of his or her high school class. “It’s a community of people of talent and determination who will support each other as they progress through this university,” said Carolyn Meyers, President of Jackson State University. “It also highlights the cream of the crop of the student body academically, and academics is our core business.” She added: “We’ve got to celebrate ourselves more if we want other people to celebrate us. The accomplishments of our students are worth celebrating so this is just a
Photo: William Kelly Honors College director Dr. Loria Brown-Gordon pins an inductee.
special part of that.” The program began with greetings James C. Renick, senior Vice President of
Academic and Student affairs. Marie O’Banner-Jackson, associate dean of University College, read each name of
the honorees as they were congratulated by President Meyers and the deans of their respective colleges.
After pinning the left lapels of each student with the official Honors College pin, the honorees recited the oath, led by professor of English, Preselfannie McDaniels. Closing remarks were delivered by Robert Blaine, Dean of Undergraduate Studies and Cyber Learning. He commended the students for what he called being “hard wood, not veneer,” and for their hard work and consistency. Kyren Garel was one of the students honored during the pinning ceremony. “It’s absolutely phenomenal to be able to be recognized. Coming into college, this is a whole new playing field, and being able to be recognized as a freshman for being in the Honors College is something that is great in itself. It’s an opportunity that everyone should be able to take part in.” Azaria Edwards, a freshman chemistry major from Jackson, Miss., shared positive views similar to Garel. A reception immediately followed the program, where students and faculty engaged in food and fellowship.
Jackson State students laissez les bons temps rouler Orionna Brumfield MC301 Contributor/Staff Jackson State University students had the opportunity to “laissez les bons temps rouler” or let the good times roll at A Celebration of Life event held on Feb. 20. Chris Topher, a junior electrical engineering major from New Orleans, La., coordinated the event, which featured music food and fun as a celebration for students even though it was after the official Mardi Gras. “I was taught that through deaf and hard times that life is a celebration. I just wanted to bring a unique twist to JSU,” said Topher. Topher is the first to bring a Mardi Gras celebration to Jackson State and his main goal was to show his heritage and hope that students would enjoy a little of what he experiences in his hometown of New Orleans. Topher had the help of the JSU Student Government Association senate
committee to assist with drinks, making food plates, handing out t-shirts, and passing out beads to all the attendees. “When people see your idea, they want to help. I think that’s very big around here,” said Topher. Many students enjoyed the event and really felt the New Orleans vibe that Topher envisioned. Jillian Travillion, a sophomore psychology major from Greenwood, Miss. said, “I love the energy from the food to the overall New Orleans type atmosphere.” Travillion noticed the hard work Topher and the SGA senate committee put into the event. She believes that teamwork made the event successful. “I think its great that we can all come together to have fun collectively,” said Travillion. Just like a typical New Orleans Mardi Gras celebration, people were everywhere dancing and
being themselves without worrying about the crowd. Nigel Davenport, a psychology/speech major said, “The DJ was great and I am ready to get back on the dance floor!” The place was full of excitement as students enjoyed the break from school assignments and studying. “I learned a new dance I didn’t know and all of my friends are here. I’m usually bored on a Friday night, so this is a fun event to have,” said Alexis Neely, a freshmen mass communications major from Jackson Miss. Neely also noticed how everyone cooperated and she hopes the unity continues. “I would love to see more events like this. We are together as one JSU family,” said Neely. Topher hopes the Celebration of Life becomes an annual event. “Just support us and keep talking about it. Hopefully we can grow to get bigger and better” said Topher.
Provided by Guy King Imani Nelson and Raqayya Calmes, SGA Senate members serve punch during event.
The Blue & White Flash
Variety
Page 7 - February 26, 2015
Part 4: Success in the African-American Community As a special feature during the month of February, the Blue & White Flash will present a special four-part series focusing on African-Americans and related issues in honor of Black History Month. These perspectives may contain the opinion of the writer and do not represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.
Top Left: Teri Woods; Top Right: Arnold W. Donald; Bottom Left: Kenneth Chenault; Bottom Right: Ursula Burns.
Jeremy Anderson MC301 Contributor/Staff Success can be a complicated topic because it is defined by the person trying to attain it. What it takes to be successful for you, may be not be deemed as success by others. Some say success is
defined as attaining the simple needs of food, water, and shelter. But many of us believe, as Americans living in a prosperous country with a money-driven market, that success is equated with the attainment of money. A lot of it! By focusing on monetary
success, the easiest way to associate success is with fame. In today’s media, if a wealthy African-American male or female is being spotlighted, this person is usually in the sports or entertainment business. Media consumers are flooded with images of black men and women achieving success in areas. Hardly a day will go by without watching TV and seeing the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Hart, Nicki Minaj, and countless other black entertainers and athletes. Yet, outside of the spotlight of entertainment and sports, there are plenty of AfricanAmericans doing just as well for themselves as the athletes and music stars the masses are accustomed to seeing so often. As mentioned earlier in this series, black people are still underrepresented and discriminated against in the job market, but there have been many stories of individuals who dared to dream beyond statistical logic. Without all the glamour of celebrity status and constant media attention, there are many black people who have made a fortune without the spotlight. On the business side, only five CEOs of the Fortune 500 companies are African-
American. Ursula Burns is an African-American woman and the CEO of Xerox. She has held the position since July of 2009. Of the five CEOs, she is the only woman. The other black CEOs of Fortune 500 companies are: Kenneth Chenault of American Express, Rodney O’Neal of Delphi, Kenneth Frazier of Merck, and Arnold W. Donald of Carnival. These men and women are among the many other black entrepreneurs making moves in business. Black people have also delved into the field of hotel ownership. In fact, some of the same hotels that weren’t accessible to black people due to Jim Crow laws are now owned by black people. As of 1998, there were no major hotels that were black owned. After a group of black investors noticed this, they formed the National Association of Black Hotel Owners, Operators, and Developers. They rapidly dived into the realm of hotel management. In 2001, a Memphis, Tenn., Days Inn hotel became one of the first modern day franchise hotels that was black owned. The very next year, Don Peebles purchased
the Royal Palm Hotel in Miami. Now just 14 years later, there are over 500 blackowned hotels according to blackmeetingsandtourism.com. Black people are also thriving in the area literature. Teri Woods is a best-selling author who was denied by many publishing companies. She then began to sell her books out of the trunk of her own car before beginning her own publishing company. With novels that are centered on urban lifestyles and struggles, she has gone on to sell over 2 million books, according to her website. Other black best-selling authors include Eric Jerome Dickey, Malcolm Gladwell, Zadie Smith, Michael Baisden, and Nikki Turner. Also, in 2014, Stephen Henderson won a Pulitzer Prize for his journalism in the Detroit Free Press. The above examples are only a very minute image of the type of success black and brown people are experiencing. Even without the glamour and fame that we are susceptible to be attracted to, these individuals have found ways outside of entertainment and sports to make a financially prosperous living.
The Glass Menagerie debuts at Jackson State University Chereigna Dixion Guest Writer “The Glass Menagerie”, an American classic play by critically acclaimed playwright Tennessee Williams, makes its debut on the campus of Jackson State University. The Department of Speech Communication will be presenting “The Glass Menagerie” and it promises to be a story that is surely to leave audiences wanting for more. The story is introduced by Tom Wingfield, the narrator and protagonist, who shares his recollection of his mother Amanda and sister Laura. This searing drama of a family’s struggle with the past, the future, and one another must somehow find hope while dealing with external and internal complications. Yolanda Williams MFA, Director, feels the play is something that everyone will find
relatable. “This is a story about a family trying to find their own piece of happiness in the world,” said Williams. Williams has directed several productions at JSU, including her most recent work, “In the Red and Brown Water” by Tarell Alvin McCraney. Williams could have chosen a plethora of works by Tennessee Williams, but she was especially drawn to this particular play. As a fan of the American classics, Williams saw “The Glass Menagerie” as the perfect choice. She said, “Mississippi is full of great writers and playwrights and this classic tale presents the perfect opportunity to introduce his work on our stage, to our students and our community.” The beauty of any play is the ability to bridge the gap between page and stage almost seamlessly. In order to do this, the director must create an intimate
relationship with the playwright’s words in order to capture his/her vision without losing their own. It was this belief that Williams said, “When I have a play, I start off dissecting and breaking down a script. I figure out what story I want to tell.” Williams stated, “With this production, “The Glass Menagerie”, the story I wanted to focus on is the effects on a son when a father disappears. What are the struggles in a household, how does he take care of his the family, grow as a man, tackle the world, nurture his own dreams, and not break down? What happens when he wants to find his own way? What happens when he needs to escape?” “The Glass Menagerie” premieres in the Rose E. McCoy Auditorium on Feb. 26-27. Other showings include: March1 at 3 p.m.; March 2 at 7:30 p.m.; and special school performances on Feb. 27 and March 2 at 1 0a.m. Tickets are $5 for students
and senior adults and $10 general admission. For more information call 601-979-5956
or 601-979-4309. Tickets are also available online www.jsums.edu/ speechandtheatre.
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Article V 1. Section II a. Addition i. The Senate shall be composed of thirty-four (34) voting Senators. ii. Letter A, Number 1: Two (2) senators from each of the seven (7) constituent student activity councils two (2) senators from each class, two (2) senators from each College, and two (2) senators from the School of Life Long Learning: iii. Letter A, Number 1, Letters a-r: a. Academic Council, b. Pan Hellenic Council (one male & one female), c. Religious Council, d. Residential Council (one male & one female), e. Special Interest Council, f. International Council, g. Athletics Council, h. Freshman Class, i. Sophomore Class, j. Junior Class, k. Senior Class, l. College of Business, m. College of Liberal Arts, n. College of Public Service, o. College of Education and Development, p. College of Science, q. Engineering, and Technology, r. School of Life Long Learning. 2. Section V a. Relocation i. Letter E: Move, ”Confirm all Presidential appointments with a two-thirds (2/3) vote of student senate currently in office.” to Bylaws ______ ii. Letter O: Move, “Elect its own officers, except the President of the Senate, who shall be the Vice President of the Student Government Association. In the event, the Vice President assumes the office of the President of the Student Government Association; the President ProTemp of the Senate will serve as the presiding officer of the Senate.” to By-Laws _______ b. Deletion i. Letter F: Impeach officers of the Student Government Association by three-fourths (3/4) vote of student senate currently in office. Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend further than removal from office and disqualification to hold and enjoy any other office within the Student Government Association, however, the party impeached may be liable and subject to disciplinary hearing under the University Disciplinary Policy. ii. Letter L: Override a veto by the Student Government Association President by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of senate. 3. Section VI a. Addition i. Summer session begins the first week of the first academic summer session and will terminate the last week of the second academic summer session. 4. Section X a. Deletion i. Delete section. Article VI 1. Section XIII a. Addition i. In case of resignation or incapacitation of any Justice, the Chief Justice shall appoint a qualifying student in an acting capacity until the senate approval (2/3 vote) of any new nominations to the position upon the recommendation of the Election Commission and the Dean of Students Staff. 2. Section XII a. Deletion i. Delete section Article VII 1. Section III a. Relocation i. Move section to Article III 2. Section XII a. Relocation i. Move section to Article III 3. Section XIII a. Deletion i. Delete section Article VIII 1. Addition a. Section 1: Governance i. The Campus Activity Board, also known as CAB, will be empowered to act on behalf of and represent the student body in all matters concerning campus activities. b. Section 2: Purpose i. CAB is committed to providing diverse quality programs that will enhance the Jackson State University student’s educational experience via on - campus entertainment, i.e. late night programming, student organization appropriations, and educational speakers. See Campus Activities Board Constitution and Bylaws c. Section 3: Organization i. CAB shall consist of student representatives from the student body. There will be two types of membership (Executive and General) within the CAB. Executive membership is exclusively to the Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer/Parliamentarian, and the Director of Campus Activities from the SGA President’s Cabinet. General membership will consist of committee members, and volunteers among the student body. ii. Role of the Chair 1. The Chair shall be responsible for oversight of CAB and its day-to-day operations. This position shall be voted upon in the SGA elections. iii. Role of Vice-Chair 1. The role of the Vice-Chair position is to assist the Chair with the day-to-day operation of the organization. It is very important for the ViceChair to work closely with the Chair on all matters concerning the organization. This position shall be voted upon in the SGA elections. iv. Role of Secretary
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1. The secretary is responsible for keeping attendance, minutes, and incentive points for ALL of the incentive program participants. The secretary shall be determined by election by the general CAB members and shall make their self-available at the organization’s disposal as needed. The Secretary shall be appointed by the Chair and Vice-Chair and confirmed by the Senate v. Role of Treasurer/Parliamentarian 1. The role of the Treasurer position in coordination with the Chair, Executive Committee members, and the advisors, is to maintain an accurate budget for CAB. It is very important for the Treasurer to work closely with the Chair, Secretary, and advisors along with the general members of CAB to ensure successful accountability. Two individuals should have authorization to write checks. The Treasurer and/or the Chair are authorized to write checks, but only with the signature of the advisor do these checks become valid. Additionally, the Treasure shall serve as the Parliamentarian. As the Parliamentarian, he/she shall be responsible for helping with the Chair in his/her oversight of CAB and its operations. The Treasurer/Parliamentarian shall be appointed by the Chair and Vice-Chair and confirmed by the Senate. The Chair shall make them available at the organization’s disposal as needed and is seen fit. d. Section 4: Meetings i. A. CAB Executive Committee meetings will be closed to the general public. These meetings will be held bi-weekly of every month during the spring, summer, and fall semesters. ii. B. General meetings will be closed to the Executive Committee and active members of the CAB. These meetings will be held each month during the spring and fall semesters as determined by the CAB Advisors. iii. C. The CAB will present at the SGA Student Body meetings for the purpose of informing, promoting, and soliciting ideas from the Student Body about activities. iv. D. Special meetings may be called by the Chair, at the request of the University administration or by the Vice Chair. Article IX 1. Section I a. Addition i. All Student Government Association officers may be impeached for malfeasance, misfeasance, and/or nonfeasance of duty, or action contrary to or in violation of this Constitution, the Statutes of Jackson State University, and/or University Policy. Impeachment may be instigated by ¾ vote of the Student Senate currently in office or an executive order from the President of the Student Government Association. All instigated impeachments will go directly to the Student Judiciary Branch, who will unanimously determine the verdict of the impeachment. The Student Judiciary Branch shall sit as a tribunal with the Chief Justice of the Student Judiciary Branch presiding. A full hearing shall be given to the accusers and to the defendant having the full right of council. If the Chief Justice is the accused party, the Associate Chief Justice presides over the impeachment hearing. Impeachment of class officers can be requested by a written letter from the Class President or ¾ of the Class Council. This letter is to be submitted to the Student Senate or the President of the Student Government Association, both of whom will deliberate and determine whether to proceed with the impeachment process. If both the Student Senate and the President of the Student Government Association deny the request for impeachment, under extreme circumstances, the Class President and/or Class Council can submit their request directly to the Student Judiciary Branch. Documentation of the submission to and denial from the Student Senate and/or the President of the SGA must be provided in order for the Judiciary Branch to consider the request. Title I 1. Chapter 1 a. Relocation i. Move Title V: Election Laws and Title VI: Class Elections to the Election Code b. Deletion/Addition i. Add Title VI: Salaried Officers ii. The procedure outlined in Chapter 1 shall be observed by the legislative secretary Parliamentarian in placing enacted legislation in the statutes and in exercising statutory revisions. Title II 1. Chapter 102.9 a. Addition i. The Director of Public Relations shall form and preside (as a chair) over an SGA Street Team; whose responsibility is to promote official events of the SGA and/or any event requested by the Executive Branch. The President of the SGA will serve as an ex-officio cochair/member of the SGA Street Team. 2. Chapter 103.5 a. Addition i. The Director of Student Activities shall serve as a voting member of the Campus Activities Board. 3. Chapter 108 a. Deletion/Addition i. If for any reason, an official of the Jackson State University Student Government Association is unable to complete his/her term in office and an order of succession is not specified in the Student Government Association Constitution, then the successor shall be appointed within ten (10) school Academic days in the following manner… Title III 1. Chapter 200.4 a. Addition i. A quorum for the purpose of holding a meeting and transacting business shall consist of twenty-three (23) of those members of the Senate at the time of the meeting. 2. Chapter 204.4 a. Addition
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i. The Senate may override a Presidential Veto by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of student senate currently in office. In such case, the President and the senate are to work together to resolve to issue causing the veto. If it cannot be resolved five (5) academic days, the bill and/or resolution will be discarded. 3. Chapter 211.1 a. Deletion i. All resolutions shall be assigned a consecutive number by the executive Secretary of the Student Government Association Summer Senate upon placement on the calendar or introduction into the Student Government Association Summer Senate. 4. Chapter 214.1 a. Addition i. A. Serve as a liaison between the SGA and the members of all the Academic Organizations (i.e. Academic Honor Societies, Honors College, and etc.) 5. Chapter 214.7 a. Addition i. College of Business: Serve as liaisons between the SGA and College of Business. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning their respective College. 6. Chapter 214.8 a. Addition i. College of Liberal Arts: Serve as liaisons between the SGA and College of Liberal Arts. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning their respective College. 7. Chapter 214.9 a. Addition i. College of Public Service: Serve as liaisons between the SGA and College of Public Service. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning their respective College. 8. Chapter 214.10 a. Addition i. College of Education and Human Development: Serve as liaisons between the SGA and College of Education and Human Development. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning their respective College. 9. Chapter 214.11 a. Addition i. College of Science, Engineering, and Technology: Serve as liaisons between the SGA and College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning their respective College.
10. Chapter 214.12 a. Addition i. School of Life Long Learning: Serve as liaisons between the SGA and School of Life Long Learning. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning their respective School. 11. Chapter 304 a. Deletion i. In case of any vacancies on the council, the Student Government Association President shall appoint a new member in accordance with constitutional composition. Title IV 1. Chapter 501.1 a. Addition i. 3. Must have earned a 2.8 Overall Grade Point Average at the end of the fall semester prior to seeking office; and be continuously enrolled as a full-time student (a minimum of 12 credit hours) during the spring semester in which the election will occur. ii. 4. The elected student must show that she has earned a minimum of 90 Earned Hours and have the minimum 2.8 Overall Grade Point Average as listed on an official transcript at the conclusion of the spring semester at which the office was sought. iii. 5. Must have been enrolled as a full-time student (a minimum of 12 credit hours) at Jackson State University at least one full academic year prior to her candidacy. (For example: If the candidate is seeking to be elected in the 2015 spring semester, she must be enrolled as a full–time student in the 2014 spring and fall semesters.) iv. 6. Never have been found responsible for any violation of the Jackson State University Student Code of Conduct. v. 7. Must have been approved by the Center for Student Engagement and Inclusion and the Assistant Vice President for Student Activities verifying items 1- 6 above. 2. Chapter 502.2 a. Addition
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i. 1. A panel of five (5) judges, approved by the Senate with a majority vote, shall be responsible for the judging of the Miss Jackson State University Pageant. ii. 2. The Executive Board of the SGA shall select members of the Miss Jackson State University Pageant Steering Committee, approved by a majority vote of the Senate, which either the Associate Vice Provost of Student Affairs, the Dean of Students, or the Assistant Vice President for Student Activities shall preside as the chair; iii. 3. The Miss Jackson State University Pageant Steering Committee shall set all policies relative to the coordination of the Miss Jackson State University Pageant; iv. 4. The Miss Jackson State University Steering Committee shall set the qualifications for Miss Jackson State University with a twothirds approval of the Senate. v. 6. This pageant shall be the method of selection of candidates based on the scoring from the pageant. The three (3) highest scores from the Miss Jackson State University Pageant will appear on the ballot in the Spring General Elections. In the event of a tie among the highest scoring candidates, both shall appear on the ballot. 3. Chapter 503.1 a. Addition i. Members of Miss Jackson State University’s Court shall be Mr. & Miss Senior, Mr. & Miss Junior, Mr. & Miss Sophomore, and Mr. & Miss Freshman, and will be classified as her attendants. When asked the royal court shall accompany Miss Jackson State University on ceremonial occasions. 4. Chapter 503.2 a. Addition i. The attendants for Miss Jackson State University must meet the same requirements as Miss Jackson State University, with the exception that class kings must have been born male. Additionally, all attendants must be members of their respective classes. Title VI 1. Chapter 600 a. Addition i. All elected members of the SGA are to receive stipends for their service in office. The amount to be received by individuals in the elected positions will be determined by the pay grid in Title VI Chapter 60 2. Chapter 601 a. Addition i. Regulation of Stipends: A. Stipends are to be dispersed on a monthly basis during the academic year. A total of four (4) months per semester (August, September, October, November, January, February, March, April) ii. B. Members who do not complete office hours, attend events, or violate the SGA Constitution and Statutes will not be eligible to receive their designated stipend. Eligibility for stipend receipt is at the discretion of the SGA Advisor(s). iii. C. The stipends will only be dispersed to elected SGA officers if the Campus Activity Board is fully functional. 3. Chapter 602 a. Addition i. Nomenclature of Elected Officers: A. SGA President ii. B. Miss Jackson State University (Miss JSU) iii. C. SGA Vice-President iv. D. Executive Board Members (SGA Secretary, SGA Assistant Secretary, SGA Business Manager, SGA Parliamentarian, and Campus Activity Board Chair) v. E. Legislative Council Members (Academic Council Senators (2) and Special Interest Council Senators (2)) vi. F. Class Council Members (Class President, Class Vice-President, Class Business Manager, Class Secretary, Class Assistant Secretary, Class Parliamentarian, Class Senators (2), Class King, Class Queen) 4. Chapter 603 a. Addition i. Pay Grid Elected Officer Position Amount Per Month Amount Per Semester Amount Per Year SGA President $250 $1,000 $2,000 Miss JSU $250 $1,000 $2,000 SGA Vice- President $175 $700 $1,400 Executive Board Members $150 $600 $1,200 Legislative Council Members $125 $500 $1,000 Class Council Members $50 $200 $400 Title VII 1. Chapter 800.2 a. i. 5. Campus Activities Board Members
THE NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY PRESENTS
“THE WAIT IS OVER”
SSHOWTIME U N6:DAY, M A R C H 1 , 2 0 1 5 00 P.M. DOORS OPEN AT 5:00 P.M. | JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY LEE E. WILLIAMS ATHLETICS & ASSEMBLY CENTER | $10.00 IN ADVANCE - $15.00 AT THE DOOR
Tickets may be purchased at the ticket booth located on the 1st floor of the Student Center For more information please call 601.979.1179 or visit the Center for Student Engagement & Inclusion, 2nd floor Student Center-Suite 2147