The Medallion, Issue #30 - February 2021

the

a publication by the FSU Honors Student Association

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: 0 5 How to Maintain Healthy Relationships in Quarantine

07

What's Your Love Language? - A Quiz

17

Valentines' Day Poetry Contest Submissions

28

Diversity and Inclusion at FSU

Issue #30 February 2021

32

Diversity in Classical Music

TABLE OF CONTENTS

01

Letter from the Editor

02

Finding Love in a Pandemic & Studying It

05

How to Maintain Healthy Relationships in Quarantine

07

What's Your Love Language? - A Quiz

11

A Word with FSU's Victim's Advocacy Program

14

The Medallion's Monthly Mantra

15

Callista's Corner: An Advice Column

17

Valentines' Day Poetry Contest Submissions

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Shantel Buggs

22

Student Spotlight: Njaree Collins

25

Diversity and Inclusion at FSU

28

Diversity in Classical Music

32

HSF Artwork about Identity and Relationships

35

Check out the inaugural issue of the HEP Zine

38

Student Submissions & HSAs Social Media

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Letter from the Editor Dear Reader, This edition of The Medallion is unique as it has two separate themes!

This issue focuses on both the importance of healthy relationships and the celebration of Black History Month.

In the midst of this pandemic, the relationships that we have are more important than ever. Spending most of our time inside with people who support and love us is a much better alternative than spending that time on toxic and stressful partnerships. Our relationship with our family members, friends, roommates, significant others, and coworkers all fall under this importance and the staff and I hope that the resources and tips that we have provided will help you improve upon the valuable connections in your life!

The month of February celebrates Black History Month, an annual month of observance originating in the United States. This month serves to remember important African American people throughout history and to recognize their continued struggle for racial justice and equality in the world today. The repercussions of this inequality require more than just a month-long reflection, it is up to us to fight for justice, lift up the voices of those who are underrepresented, and speak up when we see situations that need change. The Medallion is a student-led publication, we are here to publish the words and opinions of our students and to share them with all of our readers. We will continue to accept submissions, uplift student voices, and focus on these important issues, and we welcome anyone who would like to assist us along the way.

As you read through this issue, please remember to listen openly to the perspectives of others and allow yourself to express your own racial and cultural identity. Everyone's experiences matter in this world and these conversations give us a chance to be honest with ourselves and to examine the root of our own biases and our beliefs.

Your Editor-in-Chief,

01

Karyna Bugos

Love

FINDING IN A PANDEMIC...

AND STUDYING IT! While platforms such as Bumble and Tinder made online dating much more prevalent in the 21st century, no one could have predicted the need for virtual connection tools in 2020. The coronavirus pandemic has impacted nearly every aspect of social interaction, especially romantic relationships. Gone are the days of meeting potential partners in bars or social gatherings, and first dates like candlelit dinners at restaurants are a thing of the past. Instead, the past year has ushered in a wave of new online dating users craving (safe) connections in such isolating times.

Although being sequestered to home for dating has been a challenge for some, it has also provided a unique opportunity for scientists to study how and why close relationships form.

Juliana French, a graduate student in the Social Psychology PH.D. program at FSU, works with The Attraction & Close Relationships Lab to study the science of relationships, and, specifically, initial attraction processes.

French explains that she's interested in "developing a better scientific understanding of what men and women are attracted to in

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close relationship partners, how they make decisions between options for relationship partners, and factors that predict which relationships develop into full-blown relationships.” Under the guidance of Dr. Andrea Meltzer, French devised a research project, adapted to be Covid-safe, hosting virtual speed dating events to further explore these interests.

Undergraduate and graduate FSU students alike can sign up to participate in the free, virtual speed dating events to zoom with potential matches while French’s research team investigates.

During the events, speed-daters begin the process in a virtual lobby with others of their same-sex and

Juliana French, Social Psychology Doctoral Student

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Satisfying relationships are critical factors underlying health and well-being, so using these kinds of platforms to establish and maintain healthy relationships is likely extremely important.

rotate into dating “rooms” for their speed dates. Each person goes on 12 dates that are 4 minutes long.

Everyone then expresses interest (or a lack thereof) in their dates on a survey, and the next day all participants are notified with information about how many matches they got.

A formal “first date” is then scheduled- safe and over zoom- for the researchers to observe. Finally, the researchers send a follow-up survey to each match every week for four subsequent weeks to gather information about relationship progression.

While French can’t share any specific details about the hypothesis, she notes that the researchers “hope to see many relationships develop out of this opportunity!” French explains that maintaining close relationships during this global pandemic can be difficult, and the use of online platforms can help to relieve some of the strain and allow people to continue to meet and potentially form connections.

Hundreds of FSU students are already participating in this research, and you can be a part of it too! See this poster for information about how to join this study as a participant and meet a potential romantic partner!

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in a t n i a M o t w Ho

H

e R y ealth

While

Learn how to navigate your relationships with tips from FSU's UCC counselor, Julius Rainey!

Quarantine and social distancing

in

ti n a r a Qu

ne

our computers. Not just for school but for social interactions as well.”

It is important for students to prioritize their mental health in whatever ways they can while staying

have lasted a lot longer than most of us

safe. For some, depending on where they

might have anticipated when we first left

are located, this socialization may be

campus last March. In this past year, we

limited to video-chatting with their

have been kept in close living quarters

friends and family to feel less isolated

with our family members and/or

and as a way to dedicate time to

roommates for longer periods of time

relationships that are important to them.

indoors. These close quarters between

For others, forming a solid bubble of

those sharing our home can invite a lot

friends with similar exposure and

of strain and conflict into our

activity levels can help them feel less

relationships. In addition to this, there is

isolated. Going outside and staying

a sense of isolation that accompanies

socially distanced may require more

staying at home even with modern

finesse than it previously did, however, it

technology allowing us to connect to

is still possible to safely get together

others. Some of us have not seen our

with this bubble.

family members, friends, or classmates in-person for almost a year and the stress of continuing these connections can also place strain on our relationships.

“Everyone has a sense of isolation,” states Julius Rainey, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working at FSU’s University Counseling Center. “A lot of students know this was supposed to be a social, fun time… now we just stay at home on

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s p i h s n o i t a l

Practicing healthy conflict

you feel unheard and more likely to

resolution skills is a priority for those

retaliate from a place of hurt. If a

living in close quarters with roommates,

conflict is lasting a long time, it may be a

family members, or significant others.

good idea to take a break as long as you

Leaving and cooling off after an

eventually return to resolve the problem.

argument is no longer a viable option,

The longer a conflict lasts, the more

instead, communicating effectively and

tired you become and the more likely

coming up with solutions to recurring

you are to fall into unproductive habits

problems is a better way to solve

and the conversation will quickly become

conflicts that arise. Rainey gives his

less constructive.

suggestions on how to keep these

Practicing effective

dialogues constructive and beneficial to

communication and healthy conflicts

all parties involved.

takes time, but it is a key skill that you

Rainey’s number one tip is to

can use throughout the rest of your life

stick to the subject matter of the

even when you aren’t living in such close

discussion, stay present, and to fight the

quarters with those near you. To

urge to bring up any past arguments or

practice these skills or learn new ones to

annoyances. These will only muddle the

help you navigate your life during Covid-

conflict and may turn the discussion into

19, Rainey suggests that you visit FSU’s

an argument or hurt someone’s feelings.

University Counseling Center website

Instead, try to express yourself as

where there are a plethora of free

directly and honestly as you can to your

resources for students. We will highlight

partner, friend, or guardian.

some of these resources below, but there

Undermining your own thoughts and

are even more resources available on

emotions will make

their website!

UCC Resources for Students Online Counseling for individuals, groups, and couples Zoom Workshops (more are available on the website) Where's My Motivation: meets Mon at 12pm Mindful Meditation: meets Wed at 11:30am Bored In The House: meets Fri at 12pm Online Resources including free apps Various Services for those experiencing eating disorders, substance abuse, crises, & more.

Visit the UCC website at: https://counseling.fsu.edu/students

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Love Language?

WHAT IS YOUR

Take this quiz to find out!

A 'Love Language' describes the way in which we receive love from others. Knowing what your love language is can be important for understanding what you need in a partner and what they need from you. Being aware of your love language also gives you a vocabulary to express your wants and needs from a partner, and ultimately strengthens communication in a relationship.

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1) WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL DATE?

A) Writing heartfelt notes for each other B) Taking a fun salsa class together C) Crafting surprises for one another D) Preparing a meal together E) Volunteering at your favorite charity

3) WHAT QUALITY MUST YOUR IDEAL PARTNER HAVE? A) Robust communication skills B) A cuddler C) Never forgets a special occasion D) Wants to try new things E) They're always helpful and want to make you a priority

5) WHAT IS A SURE SIGN YOU HAVE A CRUSH ON SOMEONE? A) You tell them directly!

B) You start getting a little touchyfeeling C) You give them little gifts D) You ask to hang out more E) You offer to do them more favors

2) WHAT WOULD YOU WANT A S.O. TO GIFT YOU FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY? A) A sweet poem chronicling your love story B) A couples spa retreat C) Diamond earings D) A weekend getaway for the both of you E) A romantic dinner that they made for you

4) WHAT MAKES YOU THE MOST RELAXED? A) When someone reassures you B) Getting a hug from someone you love C) When someone surprises you with a thoughtful gift D) Spending time with loved ones E) When someone takes care of you

6) WHAT WOULD BOTHER YOU THE MOST IN A PARTNER? A) They constantly change the conversation topic to themself B) They don't like to hold your hand in public C) They get food and don't bring you back any D) They spend a lot of time playing video games E) They don't offer to help carry in groceries

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7. WHICH SONG MOST EXEMPLIFIES HOW YOU WANT TO FEEL WHEN IN LOVE?

A) "I Just Called to Say I Love You" by Stevie Wonder B) "I Wanna Hold Your Hand" by the Beatles C) "Don't go breaking my heart" by Elton John D) "All I Ever Need" by Austin Mahone E) "If I Could Fly" by One Direction

9) WHAT WOULD BE YOUR IDEAL VACAY WITH YOUR S.O.?

8) WHICH SAYING ABOUT LOVE RESONATES WITH YOU THE MOST? A) "Say 'I love you' often" B) "Affection is always better than perfection" C) "Every day, love is a choice" D) "No matter how busy you are if you really care, you will find time for someone" E) "In love, each celebrates each other"

A) Paris, the City of Love B) Alaska to adventure C) Hawaii, where you've talked about going forever D) It doesn't matter, just as long as 10) YOU JUST GOT A HUGE we're together PROMOTION. HOW SHOULD YOUR S.O. E) A road trip through the national RESPOND TO THIS AMAZING NEWS? parks A) They write you a super sweet congratulations card B) They give you the biggest hug C) They take you shopping to find a new work fit for your new office 1 1 ) W H A T M A T T E R S T H E M O S T I N D) They take you out to dinner E) They throw you a huge surprise party with A RELATIONSHIP? all of your family and friends A) Words B) Touch C) Thoughtfulness D) Time E) Consideration

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ANSWERS

If you chose...

MOSTLY A'S: WORDS OF AFFIRMATION

Those who got this love language are excellent communicators who listen actively and expect the same in return out of a partner. You need encouragement and appreciation in the form of words to feel loved.

MOSTLY B'S: PHYSICAL TOUCH

Rather than words, you best receive love through non-verbal cues. Body language and little touches here and there are essential for you to feel secure in a relationship.

MOSTLY C'S: RECEIVING GIFTS

Contrary to popular belief, this love language is not necessarily about material gifts. If you got this love language, thoughtfulness is key in your relationships. Small gifts from your partner that show that they are thinking about you and truly know you are what you need.

MOSTLY D'S: QUALITY TIME

The only way that you will be satisfied in your relationships is if your partner makes spending time a priority. One-on-one time is crucial, and you need to feel like your partner is focused on you during your time together.

MOSTLY E'S: ACTS OF SERVICE

If you got this love language, you need a partner who always wants to lend a helping hand. Someone who always follows through and wants to alleviate your burdens are qualities you seek in a partner. True partnership is your ideal relationship.

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A WORD WITH

Q: If a student believes they may be in an unhealthy or unsafe romantic

VICTIM'S ADVOCACY

We had a chat with FSU Victim's Advocacy Assistant Dean/Director Sarah Lull Castillo to learn about healthy relationships and campus resources.

WAYS TO

relationship, what steps should they take for their well-being? If they find themselves in a domestic violence situation?

One of the hardest things for people in an abusive relationship is to recognize it. It's often hard to recognize abuse while you are enduring it. I highly recommend reading books, reaching out to a counselor or advocate to learn more.

The One Love Foundation has an amazing app available that helps you walk through red flags in your relationship. This app is good for friends and families as well. Once you recognize what is happening following up with a professional, such as an advocate will be really important to help you plan your next steps and get out of the relationship.

CONTACT THE PROGRAM:

Call our 24/7 hotline or email us at victimsadvocate@fsu.edu.

You can also learn more about VAP at victimadvocate.fsu.edu

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HALLMARKS OF A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP: Equality, trust, honesty, respect, encouragement, shared responsibility, non-violence, healthy communication, and support.

Q: Could you explain the idea of obligated reporting and how it

learning how to communicate effectively in nonharmful ways is integral to our life in relationships, at work, really any relationship you have.

affects the resources Victim Advocacy offers?

The idea around mandatory reporting is that if a staff or faculty member at FSU is aware of a power-based personal violence situation they are required to report this to the Title IX office. VAP, however, is confidential and does not have to report. This is important as it allows VAP to provide a safe, confidential space to discuss options without having to worry about a Title IX report being made. Other confidential resources at FSU include: University Health Services, University Counseling Center, Employee Assistance Program, and Pastoral Staff.

Q: How do you think healthy

HALLMARKS OF AN UNHEALTHY RELATIONSHIP: Coercion, manipulation, dishonesty lack of trust violence, verbal abuse, controlling behavior, emotional abuse, sexual violence, isolation, purposely sabotaging a partner.

relationship skills help people in their platonic relationships?

Healthy relationship skills are applicable in any kind of relationship.

Key tenets of a healthy relationship such as providing support and encouragement in an honest way are just as important to your platonic relationships as to an intimate one.

Humans are social beings so

Resources offered by VAP:

-24/7 Crisis Support -Assistance with medical & legal processes (including filing injunctions) -Safe Housing -Academic Support --Guidance through Title IX Processes

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you are never

alone!

Campus resources for your mental and physical wellness

FSU VICtim advocacy: 850-644-7161 Univeristy Counseling Center (UCC) : 850-6448255 Center For health advocacy and wellness (CHAW): 850-644-8871 13

Monthly Mantra:

"Boundaries are the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously" When thinking about what it means to be in a healthy relationship, I immediately started evaluating my personal relationships with previous romantic partners, family members, and friends. Thoughts about the importance of meaningful communication and mutual support came to mind, but most of us know that these things are ingredients in recipes for healthier relationships.

What has been relevant in my life lately, and something I would like to share is the importance of creating boundaries. The importance of saying no without guilt. As a people pleaser, I like to make those around me happy. From going out to dinner on nights that I’m tired, to texting people who didn’t bring me joy, to doing inconvenient favors, I would act out of caring for others rather than for myself. But being a constant people pleaser can lead to feeling burnout, resentment, and personal unhappiness. Of course, there

are necessary responsibilities that we all must fill that we may not want to.

However, in areas of life where personal enjoyment can be prioritized, use the power of the word “no” to create healthy boundaries. You have the power to stay in and watch Netflix instead of going out to dinner. You don’t have to have to hang out with people who don’t bring fulfillment and happiness into your life.

You hold the power to express discomfort and to make choices accordingly.

This month I chose the mantra "boundaries are the distance at which I can love you and me simultaneously,” to serve as a reminder that the most important relationship you'll have in life is with yourself. It's important to value yourself and your boundaries not just for your happiness, but for more honest and fulfilling relationships.

By: Jenna Kruse, HSA Mental Health & Recreation Chair

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S ' A T S I L L R A E C N R CO

A NEW HSA ADVICE COLUMN FOR ALL YOUR QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS, FEATURING RESPONSES FROM CALLISTA PAYNE!

Hey Callista!

So glad you started this column. I need some advice about roommate conflicts. We simply can't get along, and it's taking a horrible toll on my mental health and my grades. Any ideas?

-Raging Roommate

Hey Raging Roommate, We're glad we made the column too! Super fun and cute of us.

Onto your roommates: My gut instinct is to tell you to cut them off, but I know that's not the healthy answer. If you're on campus, getting your RA to facilitate a discussion is always a good idea! If you've moved off-campus, it might be helpful to see if you and the roomies are willing and able to build a roommate contract as if you were a freshman again. if the contract idea doesn't work, try getting a non-bias third party involved to see if they can mediate the situation. A mutual friend who isn't a part of the situation or a classmate can give you guys an objective view of what's going on!

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Dear Callista, Not my favorite colloquium leader having an advice column, omg!! My question is about toxic friendships. My best friend of six years has started really making me feel insecure about my intelligence and my physical appearance with weird snide remarks, and I have no idea what to do. Tips?

-Your Favorite Student

Hey! I feel like I should hi my fave student, but that feels unprofessional.

My biggest instinct here is RUN. Not literally, though. If this person is someone you want or feel you need in your life, maybe try to have an open and honest conversation about how they are making you feel. But, if they aren't open to it, and start making you feel guilty for their actions, it's time to reevaluate the friendship.

Your platonic relationships are just as (if not more) important than your romantic ones and should be just as healthy. Stick up for yourself! You are loved, valued, and better than they make you feel.

Dear Reader, Do you want some advice from a loud second-year theatre major in the honors program? Have no fear, your hyper-specific column is here. Submit your questions for the column to @fsuhonors on Instagram for a chance to be featured in Callista's Corner!

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THE MEDALLION'S VALENTINE'S DAY POEM CONTEST F O R

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E V E R Y

T I M E

I

T H O U G H T

O F

Y O U . . .

WINNING POEM

by E.L.

pushed down for so long, i think i’ve forgotten how to feel your hand looks so inviting but i don’t think i have to strength to pry my fingers apart after so many nights alone i worry your heat might suffocate meal though, it’s been oddly cold lately and your smile is so warm i can’t comprehend the idea of someone wanting me as much as i want them would you like to prove me wrong? i think it’s going to be chilly tomorrow making you a cup of tea sounds like the best thing in the world it’s raining tonight, and i know i’m in love with you

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CAN I TELL YOU HOW MUCH?

by I.Q.

Apollo steals across the sky everyday in his chariotpulling the Sun behind him as he gives Earth light; he sees mortals catching wild stallions with mere lariatsand the god nearly laughs at the pitiful sight. he rides on; oceans recede as the moon disappears behind him. he knows to pick up his speed; the sky brightens, and ceases to be dim.

Apollo continues; leaves and trunks and flowers shiver as he passes, Demeter's own chorus, marking seconds and minutes as they turn into hours. he passes mountain ranges and seas of deserts, marveling at the beauty of mortal Earth, the roughness and smoothness of mainland and outskirts; how the land encompasses all that the god finds of worth. it is that expanse, that distance he travels, and in all that the sun god sees, that is how much i love you, and how i can tell you with such ease.

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CENTER OF MY WORLD

by B.S. In every book, I see you in the words, In every speech, I hear your voice, In every flower, I see your beauty, In every sunrise, I see your artistry at work, In every person, I see your love and kindness, And in all that I am and all that I will be, You are holding my hand, walking with me, Reminding me that I am yours, Pulling me closer to you, A connection that can never change, never be broken, You are my anything and my everything, My mind, heart, and soul, So with you, I keep on With you, I press forward, And with you, I am content, You satisfy the deepest desires of my heart, To know you is to know myself, And to be known and loved by you is the inspiration for all that I am.

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UNCONDITIONAL

by K.B.

A deeply hidden desire exists within me, A longing to be known, To be cherished, To know someone as deeply as I know myself.

This loneliness sits at the pit of my stomach, It stirs discontent and controls my actions, Pushing me towards the wrong people, Towards placing my self-worth into the hands of others.

This kind of love is tortuous, It is conditional, And in chasing it, I forget who I am, I lose sight of who I am becoming.

I love who I am becoming, I love who I have been, And I am beginning to love who I am, Day by day I am breaking this pattern of loneliness.

I am filling this once-empty space by myself, With myself.

I finally love myself, And this love will always be unconditional.

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FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: DR. SHANTEL BUGGS

Assistant Professor in Department of Sociology, Program for African American Studies College of Social Science and Public Policy Q: Your research focuses on how race affects online dating. What drew you to research this topic? What did you discover?

A: I got inspired to start studying multiracial women's online dating experiences while I was attending a conference during graduate school.

Me and a bunch of women I had met were sitting around talking about dating and all the weird experiences we'd had. I realized as I was listening to biracial women talk about having "blackness competitions" with their boyfriends or how they didn't put that they were half-Asian on their dating profile to avoid the people with Asian fetishes that there was something interesting going on.

So, when I did my dissertation interviews I learned a lot about how being multiracial or from a mixedrace family doesn't mean that people don't harbor racial biases that influence their romantic choices. In fact, pretty much everybody is making decisions based on racial and gender

stereotypes. I also learned there is a lot of variability in how people who are in interracial relationships actually think about their relationships and it is more than just what partners look like.

Because so many of the women I interviewed dated mostly or almost exclusively white men, I started doing interviews with white men about why they prefer multiracial women as partners.

This project is still ongoing and I'm still learning from the people I talk to every day.

There's a reason that people say that love is a radical act; love shouldn't just be a thing that we feel but something that we intentionally do every single day.

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Q: How do you think the activism and change achieved in 2020 will translate into this new decade? What do you hope will change?

A: I think we have definitely hit a moment where people aren't going to be satisfied with the bare minimum. I'm not a social movements scholar but I'd say that we constantly have waves where mass groups of people refuse to be complacent. We get large groups of people to that place not simply because "too much has happened" and people can't take it anymore but really because of community organizers and activists and others committed to addressing these issues all day every day.

The thing about the Black Lives Matter movement and the broader work for Black liberation and bringing about an anti-racist world is that there have always been people doing that work. Community organizers and activists are the ones always pushing for folks to be heard and then we have these breaking points like we had in 2020 when people were stuck at home and stressed not just by police violence and environmental inequality and a bunch of other things but specifically the ways that the pandemic has disproportionately impacted Black, Latinx, and Indigenous communities in terms of their health, employment, and access to housing.

Because people were working from home or had lost their jobs they actually had the time to attend marches, show up to city council meetings and make statements, to

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work on petitions, to register people to vote. Certainly, people did these things because they care but it also matters that people have the time to participate.

I think as the pandemic goes on, people will only get more frustrated.

These kinds of crises tend to really exacerbate social inequality and I think our political leaders, in particular, are under a serious microscope. People want these problems to be addressed, even if there isn't complete agreement on how they should be addressed (the debate over abolishing police and prisons versus reforming them is a prime example). I believe the pressure right now could lead to some really important changes and I am hopeful that people will maintain the energy to fight well beyond when the pandemic "ends." Because racism and sexism and homophobia and ableism and transphobia aren't going to take a day off just because pandemic times have ended and things have "gone back to normal."

We shouldn't want things to go back to normal.

I am hopeful that a lot more people believe that. It would be amazing if this decade becomes defined by some groundbreaking social policies like Medicare for All or more local governments consider rerouting police funding away to services that address housing insecurity and mental illness. I think the pandemic is forcing us, as individuals, to be more compassionate and to realize that corporations and many other social institutions weren't designed with compassion in mind. As more of us rebuke how power and resources have been unfairly distributed, the better things will be, I think.

Q: What factors signal a healthy relationship? How can we create and foster healthy relationships, especially when the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced most people into small quarters and limited their social interactions?

A: There are a lot of factors that can contribute to a healthy relationship but I'd say the most important thing is for a relationship to be rooted in respect and care. When I say respect and care, I'm not just talking about the basics of human decency; people should be invested in understanding what their partner(s), friends, or family members have to contend with as they move through the world.

This means not just "accepting" that someone may have one or more identities or social positions that is marginalized by society.

It means actively supporting that person and at minimum pushing back against the norms and structures that make that person's life more difficult than those who are privileged by our laws and social institutions. So maybe that means standing up for them to others, maybe that means passing on opportunities, maybe that means reading more widely so you can be more knowledgeable about issues. For certain, it means that you can't assume that just because you are close to people who are a different race, different economic class, education level, or a different citizenship status, that the work is done. There's a reason that people say that love is a radical act; love shouldn't just be a thing that we feel but something that we intentionally do every single day.

I also don't think the basics I mentioned change whether you're talking about familial, platonic, or

romantic and/or sexual relationships. All these relationships require effort to communicate and understand everyone involved. So, when we're talking about relationships in the midst of a global pandemic that not only brings with it health concerns but also economic struggles, we have to really work at that respect and care.

I'm one of those people who lives alone and hasn't been willing to risk traveling to see my family over the last year. I definitely have struggled with being isolated from friends and even my students. I think there's only so much that technology can do to help us through this; many people are using Zoom, Google Hangouts, or FaceTime to be able to connect with friends and family. Lots of people have brought home pets.

Others are relying more heavily on communities they've created on social media or talking more on the phone. I think as a society, we need to be more compassionate about how not everyone expresses or experiences depression or other mental illness that can be brought on or exacerbated by isolation in the same ways.

We have to practice patience.

We have to be willing to place ourselves in other people's shoes, so to speak. For those who are living in more cramped situations, I think it's important to communicate about needs and wants and to understand how those are different. I think everyone also has to find the things that make them feel good because we're not going to get along all the time. Finding time to be alone or to decompress can be hard but perhaps this is a time to pick up a new hobby or to start taking daily walks. In general, if we aren't taking care of ourselves it is going to be hard to take care of other people in a healthy way.

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: NJAREE COLLINS

Majors: Criminology & Sociology Involvement: President of the Alliance for Black Women (ABW), Black Student Union Ambassador, Outreach Coordinator for the Society of Black Female Future Attorneys Q: What are your goals with the Alliance for Black Women (ABW)?

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A: For ABW, I envision fostering a culture of unity. empowerment, and to promote an environment that supports our overall wellbeing. Two of my biggest principles as president are staying true to who you are, and cultivating a safe space of vulnerability. I allow the opportunity for everyone to feel comfortable and empowered as we learn the true meaning of sisterhood. We often love to see the raw truth displayed by others but are afraid to let others see it in us. I believe promoting confidence will facilitate selflove. When we are confident in who we are, we are comfortable with our truest self, knowing that we are worth and that in itself is beautiful.

To have self-love means that you accept yourself as you are and have to come to terms with those aspects of yourself that you cannot change. It means to have self-respect, a positive self-image, and unconditional self-acceptance. I hope to achieve these goals by focusing on women empowerment, mental health, and professional development.

As a student, I continue to seek the knowledge that has been hidden and white-washed from us for so long and strive to share what I've learned with others."

Q: What does black history month mean to you, and how do you celebrate as a student?

A: Black History Month to me is a time of reflection. It's a time to think and reflect on what t means to be an AfricanAmerican. Black History Month is a time to reflect on the activists and organizers of the past who fought for racial equality for everyone and how I can pick up that mantle and continue the fight today. It's a time where I remember and embrace the greatness that lies within all of us. It's a time that I remember that we're not just descendants of enslaved people, but we are descendants of kings and queens... a people who taught us how to overcome and build in spite of it all. As a student, I continue to seek the knowledge that has been hidden and whitewashed from us for so long and strive to share what I've learned with others.

Q: What are some ways you would encourage students to get involved with Black History Month on campus?

A: I would encourage students on campus to get involved with the Black Student Union. Ask to do co-sponsorships with black organizations. Don't be closed-

minded when meeting new people- it is important to step out of your comfort zone. During black history month, take this time to educate yourself on the history and why we choose to celebrate. It's deeper than MLK having a dream. As a black person, I can't fault anyone for not knowing much about black culture, so I encourage everyone to come and celebrate and learn something- it doesn't have to be only the month of February. . .

Q: What are some actions that white students and non-black students of color could take towards effective ally-ship, this month as well as yearround?

A: Non-black students or POC should take this opportunity.to get to know us as people... regular human beings! We are in your classes, in your dorms, even in your organizations. Many black organizations on campus love to co-sponsor. It gives our members the opportunity to meet more people as our way of networking. All in all, I would say don't try to get to know the black culture all in one month.

Be genuine and let's love each other all year long. I would love to educate people who are interested in learning the truth about the black community- it's deeper than what the textbook teaches you.

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Q: What are your plans, if you have them yet, for post-grad?

A: I plan to take a gap year to study for the LSAT. During my gap year, I have the opportunity to intern at a few local law firms as well as the opportunity to intern with a prestigious civil rights attorney after graduation.

Q: Did you set any New Years Resolutions? How are those going?

A: It's no secret I'm a busy individual. I enjoy the clubs and organizations that I have been blessed to be a member of. My sidekick is my daily journal. I plan and map out my days and my weeks. When it comes to school work I do not procrastinate. I tackle assignments early and I try my best to plan for the "what ifs" and those unexpected speed bumps in the road. I keep my academic resources on speed dial in the vent and I get stuck or need tutoring I don't hesitate to ask for help.

Embrace your differences and appreciate the multiplicity of talents that may lie within you."

Q: Is there anything else that you want our readers to know?

A: Don't let anyone define who you are. You are the author and editor of your life story and it is being written every day.

Embrace your differences and appreciate the multiplicity of talents that may lie within you.

The only limits we have in life are the ones we place on ourselves. So fly high and soar.

We often love to see the raw truth displayed by others, but are afraid to let others see it in us."

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Diversity & Inclusion at Florida State: What has been done and what we can continue to improve upon The increasing nationwide support for the Black Lives Matter movement throughout this past year has resulted in increased calls for diversity and inclusion on college campuses.

Traditionally, minority students in underserved communities attend and graduate college at a much lower rate than their peers (U.S. Department of Education). In order to make progress and help minority students attend higher-level schools, it is important for these institutions to recognize the role they play in this trend and to dedicate their resources towards recruiting and supporting these underserved populations.

Florida State University (FSU) has ventured to start this progress by forming the President’s Task Force on Anti-Racism, Equity, and Inclusion.

One of the main initiatives of the University moving forward is to increase diversity in its student and faculty populations and support its underrepresented populations. As of now, the task force has submitted recommendations to President Thrasher including recommending the

permanent removal of the Francis Eppes statue. removing Eppes’ name from the College of Criminology, and B.K. Robert’s name from an FSU College of Law building. President Thrasher has only agreed with the sentiment behind these recommendations, and as of this publication date, only the Francis Eppes statue has been removed from campus.

During the summer of 2020, an Instagram account with the username ‘Dear Florida State’ was created. This account featured anonymous statements from minority students and alumni at FSU detailing harassment, discrimination, microaggressions, and other problematic behaviors that they had witnessed or endured during their time at FSU. During the summer, two separate statements were posted calling attention to the Honors Program and its lack of diversity. One post specifically discussed how the honors colloquium lectures are “whitewashed” while another commented on the make-up of the honors staff and its students.

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Diversity & Inclusion within the Honors Program:

AN INTERVIEW WITH ANNETTE SCHWABE

Annette Schwabe, the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies and Director of the Honors Program, discusses the steps that the Honors Program has taken, what her vision for the future of the program is, and what students can do now to increase WHAT ROLE DOES SYSTEMIC representation in RACISM PLAY IN HINDERING the program.

THE INCLUSION OF UNDERREPRESENTED GROUPS IN THE HONORS PROGRAM?

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As a sociologist, I know that systemic racism is a significant social structural problem that permeates our society across our political and economic systems, institutions, and individual experiences. That is, systemic racism constrains justice in every sphere of society, including higher education. This is a particular problem in most highly selective academic programs and must change. Structural racism and bias constrain diversity in university academic programs before students even apply to the university. For example race/ethnicity shapes whether high school students either are or are not encouraged - by teachers, guidance counselors, and even family, to apply for programs like honors. Also, having experienced bias over their life course, many students from underrepresented groups do not apply if they do not think they would fit in, in part because they might not see anyone like themselves in websites or publications about a particular program or on a campus visit.

This speaks to the important connections between diversity and inclusion whereby a lack of diversity is likely to undercut a student's sense that they belong in the community. Racial bias and lack of diversity also limit inclusion once underrepresented students enter a program like honors, which weakens the community and quality of experiences within the program and is in stark contrast to the democratic values and principles on which our nation was founded.

The staff and faculty in honors are highly aware of and deeply concerned about this problem and define it as a problem that needs to

be addressed. We have been in discussion for at least the past few years about how to diversify honors and how to be more inclusive.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Dr. Schwabe outlined several changes that emerged out of these discussions including the development of the core HEP curriculum and its theme, Freedom and (In)Equality, diversifying the Honors staff and faculty, collating, tracking, and sharing data on the composition of Honors students with the Honors Program Policy Committee. Dr. Schwabe will also be presenting this data to the President's Task Force on Anti-Racism in March with the primary goal of identifying policy changes and university resources that can be used to diversity honors and make it more inclusive.

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER CHANGES THAT HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED BY THE HONORS PROGRAM? In the fall semester, we invited a diverse pool of 15 students to lead the newly formed Honors Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Accountability Committee. Presently, 10 students joined the committee, which has met twice since the new year. One goal of the committee is to obtain broad-based feedback from all honors students to identify areas of concern students have about

the lack of diversity and inclusion in honors.

Central to that goal is assuring that ways of gathering that feedback gives all honors students an equal chance to have a voice in the process. In addition, the committee will fulfill its (current) name by suggesting ways the Honors Program can use our resources – human, economic, and social capital – to increase diversity and inclusion that is meaningful to all students in the program.

HOW HAS THE HONORS COLLOQUIUM COURSEWORK BEEN MODIFIED THIS SEMESTER? We implemented a formal, course-based, fullsemester Honors Colloquium Leader (HCL) in which HCLs learn about the importance of diversity, how bias works, and how to be more inclusive in the classroom, both as students and as peer instructors. One starting point was to identify a more diverse pool of faculty speakers in fall colloquium and to intentionally seek and recruit students from diverse backgrounds for honors leadership experiences. As part of those changes, the fall colloquium is shifting to a “common read” model with an eye to enhancing diversity and inclusion in honors. We chose to use fiction books and the honors staff and faculty came up with a list of suggested books that require students to engage with and reflect on issues of social justice/injustice and written by a diverse group of authors. We also asked HCLs to choose the final book, which will be “Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler.

HOW DOES THE ADMISSIONS PROCESS FOR THE HONORS PROGRAM CURRENTLY MEASURE DIVERSITY AND WHAT ARE FUTURE GOALS FOR THIS PROCESS? We made significant changes to the admissions process this year. For the first time, the honors application was made available via the main FSU Admissions site with the intention of attracting a larger and more diverse pool of students to apply to honors.

There is evidence that first-generation and underrepresented students are more likely to apply for honors and other selective academic programs if they can do so within a larger university application rather than having to apply separately for admission to these programs. We use broad-based holistic criteria and not strict test score or GPA cutoffs for admission and no longer screen out students based on whether they receive or do not receive the Freshman Scholarship.

We significantly revamped and streamlined the application prompts and no longer ask students to list all of their co- and extracurricular activities within the application as we felt this information likely led to reviewer bias.

We have three reviewers for every application.

We attempted to recruit a diverse group of faculty, staff, and student reviewers; all honors students were invited to serve as reviewers though we will revisit the process next year to further increase the diversity of reviewers.

Reviewers scored each application based on the five prompts and summarized their recommendation for honor with a three-point scale. We combined all scores from the reviews to select our final pool of accepted applicants, which was much more diverse than past years.

We have also met with administrators in other units on campus who serve underrepresented students to collaborate on recruiting students from specific programs in high school and to increase communication to school counselors and students before and after they arrive at FSU. We want to encourage and support students to pursue all admission routes as well as Honors in the Major Thesis options, which allow students to graduate with honors.

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WHAT DO YOU ENVISION THE FUTURE OF THE HONORS PROGRAM LOOKING LIKE, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION?

WHAT CAN CURRENT HONORS STUDENTS DO TO INCREASE REPRESENTATION AND INCLUSION IN THE HONORS PROGRAM?

An even richer academic program and community that truly upholds our values, where all students feel they belong and are entitled to the resources we have, and in which the culture and actions very clearly reflect our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity. All students feeling equally justified to speak and have their opinions and perspectives heard and responded to in courses and at co-curricular events. Broadbased participation on student leadership committees in honors.

Provide feedback to the Honors Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Accountability Committee, if any student experiences discriminatory behavior we would like to speak to them and rectify the situation. We need to hear of student experiences to know where to focus our efforts to be more inclusive and just.

Pursue leadership experiences, even if you are not sure you’re the right person to be in that role!

Keep asking the kinds of questions you are asking here and keep us in dialog with you.

HOW TO REPORT AN ACT OF DISCRIMINATION AT FSU 1. NAVIGATE TO REPORT.FSU.EDU 2. READ THE DESCRIPTION FOR EACH INCIDENT REPORT 3. FILL OUT YOUR REPORT AS ACCURATELY AS YOU CAN, INCLUDING AS MANY DETAILS AS POSSIBLE IF YOU ARE COMFORTABLE, REACH OUT TO A FACULTY OR STAFF MEMBER FOR SUPPORT. FREE COUNSELING IS ALSO AVAILABLE FOR ALL FSU STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY COUNSELING CENTER.

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PICTURED IS THE LEGENDARY DUO OF SOPRANO KATHLEEN BATTLE AND TRUMPETER WYNTON MARSALIS. THE TWO COLLABORATED ON THE 1992 ALBUM 'BAROQUE DUET'

DIVERSITY IN CLASSICAL MUSIC Classical music has a diversity problem.

The Metropolitan Opera, the largest classical music organization in North America, has never even staged an opera by a Black composer. But then again, the Met also has only staged two operas composed by women, and one by a composer of Asian descent. Terence Blanchard’s opera Fire Shut Up in My Bones will open the 2021 season and be the first time a work written by a Black composer has been staged at the Met during its 138 year history.

For almost as long as the establishment of classical art music has existed, there have been Black composers, even as they were underrepresented and ignored in lieu of their white counterparts.

But their music and legacies continue to be crucial in the history and study of music. In the words of musicologist Matthew Morrison, "to be serious about justice and equity extends beyond creating a “melting pot” or “multicultural” approach within music studies to one that includes diverse methodologies, topics, and the collective efforts of both majority (White) and structurally marginalized groups (Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color)

"The art form will become more diverse and inclusive.

When you look at the country, the world, there is no choice; it has to open up or it will wither and die," -Aaron Dworkin, classical violinist

who reflect the messiness and richness of the culture in which we exist."

Music by Black composers is out there- the challenge is getting it to the audience. With the struggles of the past year, many companies have floundered between falling back on reliable names like Beethoven and Mozart to fill their seasons, while others have used the online format as a gateway for change. Opera companies like Heartbeat Opera, Chicago Opera Theatre, and others have been pushing boundaries through reimagining standards of the genre for a 21st-century audience, as well as commissioning works from a diverse array of composers.

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BLACK CLASSICAL COMPOSERS IN HISTORY Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745-1799) A French violinist, competitive fencer, and composer, he broke boundaries for musicians of color.

Listen to: Op. 11, Symphony in D Major, no. 2

An American composer who was the first African American to conduct a major American symphony orchestra.

Listen to: Afro-American Symphony, The Breath of a Rose

Moses Hogan (1957-2003)

Florence Price (1887-1953)

An American composer who singlehandedly introduced spirituals into the choral canon.

The first Black woman to have a composition played by a major orchestra in the United States.

Listen to: The Battle of Jericho, My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord

Listen to: Songs to the Dark Virgin, Five Folksongs in Counterpoint

John Rosalind Johnson (1873-1954)

Julia Perry (1924-1979)

An American composer who wrote the Black National Anthem and helped define the musical atmosphere of the Black American experience

An American composer who combined European classical and neo-classical training with her spirituals and gospel music.

Listen to: Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing

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William Grant Still (1895-1978)

Listen to: Song of Our Savior, Stabat Mater

BLACK CLASSICAL COMPOSERS IN HISTORY George Bridgetower (1778-1860)

Julius Eastman (1940-1990)

A British violinist and composer, he impressed the establishment of classical music with his creativity and innovation.

An American composer who minimalist work utilized provocative political statements.

Listen to: Henry: A ballad

Listen to: Stay on It, The Holy Presence of Joan d’Arc

Rosephayne Powell (1962- )

Margaret Bonds (1913-1972)

An FSU alum, this composer blends classical structures with harmonies, textures, and melodies from Black folk music.

A composer whose works directly addressed the racial issues of her day.

Listen to: The Word was God

Listen to: : Ballad of a brown king

Listen here!

Scan this code to listen to the composers and pieces listed above on Spotify!

Icon: Joseph Bologne Chevalier de Saint-Georges.

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HSF ART

ABOUT IDENTITY & RELATIONSHIPS

Isabella Falbo

Ketia Alphonse

Falbo's piece uses fruit as a metaphor to explore vulnerability.

She explains how the process of trusting another person in a relationship is like peeling back layers of yourself. Strong relationships require vulnerability for trust, but it can be a difficult and painful process. Falbo wants to "demonstrate through her work that being vulnerable with another person is a beautiful as it is scary."

Much of Alphonse's work focuses on the daily assumptions we make about other people. This piece is about seeing an individual for who they are rather than what an audience may perceive.

She hopes that this kind of art can make us more aware of those around us and not fall into the trap of judging based on "clothes, bodies, and posture."

To Love

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Really See Me

Myah Freeman

Jeff Norman

A self-described "Artist," Freeman uses art to advocate for those who can't. One summer she volunteered in Senegal with a nonprofit aiming to rehabilitate Talibé children. Noting that art history emphasizes high-status white men, she wanted to paint the people she met in Senegal with honor and respect. She says: "they are indeed Kings despite their circumstances and the Westernized views of their nation."

Norman's work explores the human condition, and he's specifically concerned with "where a person is and what they will do in response to it." Norman finds it important to recognize seemingly small events that can be disastrous to an individual.

This specific piece "honors the very day a person is finally able to move on from an ended relationship."

Arouna: The Businessman

Starting Now

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Linxin Li

Twisted (I'm) 2

Naomi Lopez Unshed Tears

Read more about these paintings and others hanging in the HSF Building by following this link: Morgan Wegman

Americana

HTTPS://HSF.FSU.EDU/ART-AWARDS

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VISIT THE GRAB & GO TABLE ON LANDIS GREEN!

The Zine staff will be handing out physical copies here on March 1st from 12-2pm.

CHECK OUT THE HEP ZINE!

This edition features student projects, HEP class reflections, & more!

HOW TO READ THE ZINE:

Follow the link below or type 'FSU HEP' into issuu.com to find the online version of this edition!

HTTPS://ISSUU.COM/FSUHEPZINE/DOCS/HEP_ZINE_-_FEB_2021

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D O

Y O U

W A N T

F E A T U R E D

T H E

T O

B E

I N

M E D A L L I O N ?

Submit your original research, photography, poetry, short stories, or visual art to be featured in The Medallion!

Examples of acceptable genres are: poetry, short stories, research, visual art, or photography, but any student work is welcome.

Current honors students should send creative writing, research, photography, or art submissions to HSAeboard19@gmail.com 39

CALLING ALL HONORS STUDENTS:

FOLLOW HSA ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

FACEBOOK: "FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY HONORS PROGRAM" INSTAGRAM: @FSUHONORS

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Editor-in-Chief: Karyna Bugos

Content:

Jennifer Lamont Callista Payne Jamie Guterman