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Bertrand Dezara
March 21 , 2013 - April 10, 2013
wOYM
What are some fashion trends you hope to see in spring on campus?
Xavier University of Louisiana
NOPD Arrests Alleged Killer of XU Freshman Bertrand Dezara Pg. 11
New, Orleans, La
Inside This Issue:
A&E Album Review
Fight or Flight: The Grade Clock is Ticking‌ Pg.8
ICYMI: Congo Square african dance Pg.12 xulaherald.com
Ahmeena Anderson
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Persistence Pays Off
By Sierra Franklin Business Writer Since my start as an accounting major, it’s been drilled in my head the importance of getting an internship. Yet, I couldn’t find the time to fit one in and I wasn’t willing to give up the retail job I had. One day I decided it was more important to actively pursue my career instead of holding on to a job I didn’t even like. Last spring, I discovered a position on the career service online job board for a finance internship for the Recovery
School District. The position was perfect for giving me an insight of what my future clients will expect from me as an auditor so I applied. I spoke with the recruiter and she said that I was a perfect candidate for an in-person interview. She just needed to know what schedule I could work. It turned out my schedule wasn’t so perfect for the position. I was disappointed because it wasn’t the first time I couldn’t accept an internship because of scheduling conflicts. Yet, when I saw last fall that the same position was posted again, I decided to go for it. I hoped they would see something in my persistence that would open their minds to working with my schedule. It was my persistence that got me the in-person interview. However, my excitement was short lived. The only slot I could do for the interview was in-between two finals. I knew that doing the interview would add stress to an already stressful day, but I decided not to give up so easily. When I got the position, I was told that my persistence had set me apart from the other candidates. The first few weeks of my internship were exciting, but then classes started. While my supervisor was willing to work with
my schedule, my schedule wasn’t working well with me. Now every day as I struggle to wake up at five in the morning, I ask myself if my internship is worth the trouble. I wonder if the severe lack of sleep or the stresses of commuting from work to class in less than 20 minutes will eventually pay off in some noticeable way in my future. It’s hard to sometimes see the value of my internship as I can barely find a moment of free time in my schedule. Yet, every day I drag myself out of bed to fight my way through morning traffic so I experience the opportunity I’ve been granted. I’m currently solely responsible for a payroll grant reimbursement package, which I’ve already found almost a half a million in funds that can be reimbursed. It is exciting to see my work coming together in such a significant way. The route I’m taking is not the easiest route to take, but I know that actively pursuing my goals in life is the best route. I made it this far since I was persistent. There is no reason to quit now simply because the road got a little bumpy. I know that my persistence will pay off in the end.
March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
Is Apple rotten to the core? Better Find Out.
By Amber Williams Business Writer
One of the most well-known, booming businesses in today’s market is Apple, Inc. Who doesn’t own an Apple product? There may be some, but for the most part, most people own at least one Apple product or know someone who does. But have you ever stopped to think about where that product comes from? Do you think if you knew where it came from it would stop you from purchasing it? For some people it might not, but others may think twice before jumping on the Apple bandwagon. Many of Apple’s products are manufactured in China. Apple— and countless other U.S. companies—have strategically planned to manufacture goods there because labor is cheaper. The Chinese government does not heavily support human rights and in many instances
workplace safety, fair wages, and workers’ rights—especially for women and children—are rarely enforced. According to a Nightline Special Edition, “ iFactory: Inside Apple,” Apple’s manufacturing company, Foxcon, which is a Chinese company that also produces Dell products and PlayStations, is allowed to pay their employees very low wages. When I say low wages, I am not talking about $5 per hour, much less the U.S. minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Many Chinese workers earn about $1.78 an hour. These people spend 12-18 hours a day in an assembly line making Apple products. Americans experience the high quality that is put into Apple products, but these workers do not benefit from the hard labor they put into Apple products. Is this fair? From a business standpoint, Apple is just making a smart business decision: lowering the cost of production to increase revenues. But is this morally ethical? If this unethical to you, maybe you should think twice about purchasing the new iPhone 6. At the very least, become a well-informed consumer so you can make smart choices about smart phones and other social media tools. For more information, look up the Nightline Special Edition,“iFactory: Inside Apple” on YouTube.
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
Communication Cues: Meaning Beyond Words
The Xavier Herald Staff
bring more ideas. Cooperating enables you to mold all those ideas into a better product. 2. Groups are more creative— Diversity results in a greater skill set. 3. Groups enhance learning— We better recall information discussed with others.
3. Play by the rules—Structure is the key to organizing group work. Set rules for the group at the first meeting so all members know the limitations on their behavior and what to expect from each other. 4. Follow the leader—Decide if your group should appoint a leader to make basic decisions Collaboration becomes an and manage administrative academically and personally tasks (such as reserving By Allyson Graham rewarding process when you Communication Studies meeting space, making copies, apply basic skills. You learned or talking with the instructor). It’s that time of year most of them in pre-school! 5. Don’t play ball in the again. We survived midterms house—Where you work and are moving into the last Group Work Skills: is just as important as how. class weeks. For many, final Choose an appropriatelyprojects mean working in sized,quiet, distraction1. Make friends—Get to know teams or study groups. Many free place to meet. group members. Everyone students dread it, but there are Information came from wants to feel included and advantages togroup work. able to contribute. Find out all Beebe & Masterson’s “Communicating in Small members’ range of skills and Advantages to knowledge. This helps you to Groups. Communication Cues is written by Communication effectively assign tasks. Groups: 2. Speak nicely—Treat others Studies students. For more 1. Groups have more respectfully. Engage in spirited information contact Dr. Ross information—More minds debate—not personal attacks. Louis at rmlouis@xula.edu.
New Voices Gives Young Writers A Chance to Shine By Corey Todd Staff Writer
Have you ever been inspired by a story or poem? Have you ever thought about putting your voice in print? Whether you are a literature lover, a passionate poet, or someone who just wants to share their work with the world, New Voices is a great opportunity to establish your literary and artistic works. New Voices is a student run literary magazine that is published once a year at the end of the spring semester. The magazine provides opportunities to students who have a passion for writing and editing, and helps publish students’ pictures, artwork, poems, and essays. New Voices has currently published nineteen issues, each with its own creative and interesting theme. An example of this is seen in one of the magazine’s latest issues, which
was themed the “7 Deadly If you have any questions, are Sins”. For its twentieth issue, the interested in joining, or would literary magazine’s theme will like to contribute to New Voices, deal with fantasy, such as sci-fi send an email to newvoice@ and futuristic pieces. Although xula.edu. each issue has its own thematic perspective, New Voices is open to any type of genre, and encourages students to take advantage by contributing their xulaherald.com best work. The magazine does not The Xavier only appeal to writers and Herald poets, but to anyone who has a passion for English literature WANTED: and grammar. The magazine Graphic designers provides an outlet for students Photographers/video to gain exposure with writing, editing, and grammar through Opinion writers various positions offered through Reporters the literary magazine. These Web design/managers positions give experience for students who are interested in Artists related fields, as well as good Editorial positions open ways to learn about the writing and publishing process. Students Send us an email: interested in positions are encouraged to have at least two herald@xula.edu years of English, and have good reading and editing skills.
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Spring 2013 Editor-in-chief:: CASSIE D. SMITH Copy editor: ASHLEY BREWER A & E editor:ANTHONY LOTTEN Graphic design: KENNETH NORWOOD CANDICE NOEL VASHNI BALLESTE Photographers: ERIC CRAIG, ALYSSA MERCADEL ASIA BAKER, FRANZISKA PIRKL VASHNI BALLESTE Staff writers: ARMOND COLLINS, BIANCA MOORE, COREY TODD ASHLEE HILL, MIA RUFFIN, CAMERON FRANKLIN, LATIFA WILLIAMS, JORDAN REAVES JODI HILL
HERALD CONTACT INFORMATION
Herald office:
Xavier South, 605. 504.520.7474 Email stories, ads: herald@xula.edu Faculty adviser: Melinda L. Shelton 504.520.5096, mshelton@xula.edu Publication dates: MARCH 21 APRIL 7 Tweet Us @xulaherald Instagram: xulaherald
Campus NEWS
March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
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wOYM Meaghan Williams Baton Rouge, Lousiana Mass Communication Sophomore
What are some fashion trends you hope to see in spring on campus? By Ashlee Hill Staff Writer
I would like to see maxi dresses that are the right size of course and I like high waisted shorts. Taylor Dupree Mass Comm. Junior
Darian Sims
Newport News, Virginia Mathematics Junior
How Do you describe your “eclectic...LOL”
Favorite Place to shop? How Do you describe your style?
“EBAY.”
“I describe my style as whatever I can put together. I never think about it too much--- when I think about it it doesn't come out how I want.”
Whose your style icon? “Everyday People.”
Favorite Place to shop? "My favorite place to shop is the thrift store beleive it or not...and Urban Outfitters.""
I think it’s all about the linen pants because its very warm outside and it’s the best choice for humid weather. I would like a lot of people to dress appropriately on campus as well. Kirt McCall Bio-Pre Med Freshman
Whose your style icon? “A mix between India Arie and Janelle Monae." I definitely like tribal patterns, floral prints, and light weight linens. Nikki Odofin Psychology/ Bio Pre Med Senior
I would like to see more Polos, suits & ties, and just more men looking professional around campus. Patrick Gray Biology Sophomore
How Do you describe your "I guess bummy. I don’t really try to put too much effort.”
James Hearn Newport News, Virginia Chemistry PrePharmacy
Favorite Place to shop? IDK...
Whose your style icon? No one.
Ogechi Nwoko Los Angeles, California Biology Junior
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How Do you describe your style? “Simple.” Favorite Place to shop? “On The Other Hand, it’s a thrift shop here in the city.”
Whose your style icon? “My mother, she always puts together some great pieces.”
I think crop tops are so cute! So I would like to see those and some floral clothing. Ariel Norfleet Mass Comm. Junior
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
Arts & Ente The Call
Exploring Congo Square By Anthony Lotten A&E Editor
By Asia Baker Staff Writer
“The Call” centers around Jordan Turner (Halle Berry), a veteran 911 operator who receives a disturbing call one day from Casey Welson (Abigail Breslin). The majority of the film takes place with Welson in the trunk of her abductor’s car. The “damsel-in-distress” theme is the highlight of this film. Jordan Turner uses her operator skills to instruct Welson on how to attract attention to the car she’s trapped in. Even though the start of this film was great, I was a bit disappointed in its overall composition. Not only during the climax of the film did the lead actress not call for back-up when she needed it, she basically committed every typical horror film “no-no” including turning her back on the alleged killer. If you are a die-hard fan of Halle Berry, then it would not hurt to go see this film. If you want to see a truly suspense-filled, action packed, psycho mystery film, this may not be the movie for you. There are great scenes in this movie, but the overall project is a downer.
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Many have heard the saying, “If you don’t know your past, then you don’t know your future.” Although, I doubt anyone can precisely predict their future, even if they’re knowledgeable of the past, it definitely does not hurt to be aware of your history. On March 11, a symposium was held at Xavier entitled, “Congo Square: The African Roots of New Orleans Music” and hosted by worldclass clarinetist and a long-time professor of African American music at Xavier, Dr. Michael White. The symposium was a joint lecture and concert that discussed the historical significance behind Congo Square while also displaying its authentic music and dances. The event dug even further back in time by incorporating traditional West African music, which heavily influenced the sounds that emerged from the square, the birthplace of jazz. Participants included the intellectual authority on Congo Square, author Freddi Evans, percussionist Luther Gray leading the New Orleans
music and dance ensemble Bamboula 2000, and West African master drummer Seguenon Kone, heading Ensemble Fatien. The event traced the roots of HipHop, R&B, Jazz, and Blues to the melodies of colonial Congo Square, a sound which was based largely on traditional West African music. “The program is designed to be very unique. It’s not designed to be a lecture or concert but an experience that students can go to and remember for the rest of their lives,” said Dr. White. White has toured in over two dozen countries, released sixteen albums, and has made several appearances on national television, one in which he preformed the national anthem at the Allstate Sugar Bowl. He has even preformed at the White House for former president Bill Clinton. The next big event Dr. White is preparing for is French Quarter Fest. The free festival will have 1,400 musicians performing
20/20 Experience
By Bianca Moore Staff Writer
Justin Timberlake’s new album, “20/20 Experience,” debuted on Mar. 19. This highly-anticipated album has been trending at the top of social networks such as Twitter and Facebook since the beginning of March. “20/20 Experience”
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is Timberlake’s musical comeback, making this his third solo album and his most recent since 2006’s “FutureSex/LoveSounds.” Though Timberlake will always be known for his background as the NSYNC heart-throb, this album leaves the “old” Justin in the past and showcases a more mature, or grown and sexy side to his music. “20/20 Experience” provides its listeners with a variety of melodies, rhythms, and beats that create an experience much different than anything Timberlake has done before. “Pusher Love Girl,” ”Suit & Tie” featuring Jay-Z, “Strawberry Bubblegum,” and “Space Coupe” exhibit Timberlake’s musically
Seguenon Kone and Ensemble Fatien in a three day span at various venues throughout the French Quarter. Goers can also expect food and second-lining. Dr. White will have three shows; one on Apr. 12 at 12:30 p.m. at the Jackson Square stage, the others on Apr. 13 at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. The entire festival will last from Apr. 12 to the 14. On being both a professor and renowned musician, Dr. White remarked, “You’re always learning. Teaching is learning and music is a form of communication. Of course it’s strange sometimes, to step into one role from the other. It’s nice to hideout on campus, because the entertainment world can be crazy at times.”
mature and romantic side; with a sound similar to that of Robin Thicke or Maxwell. Other songs such as “Don’t Hold the Wall,” with its Arabian vibe, and “Let the Groove Get In,” with its Afrocentric beats, provides the listeners with jazzy yet exciting music that makes you want to get up and dance. However, Timberlake did not forget his roots and takes us back to the 90s in his song “Tunnel Vision.” Timberlake’s “20/20 Experience” is fun, exciting, and romantic, making it an overall amazing and versatile project, but the album is not complete. Timberlake will be releasing another 10-song album
in November to complete the full 20/20 experience. This album is definitely one of Timberlake’s best albums yet; therefore, this review gives “20/20 Experience” 5 out of 5 stars.
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
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ertainment Idol Winner Takes Home More Than Trophy
Ahmeena Anderson, XU Idol Winner
By Mia Ruffin Staff Writer
Springfest’s opening act was selected at the XU Idol finale show Monday, March 18. It has become tradition that the peer voted winner of the singing competition becomes the first to grace the stage during Springfest’s annual concert. This year the concert will be on April 6th in the Convocation Center at 7 PM. Local favorites and Billboard chart toppers will be featured,
including Sissy Nobby and Big Freedia, along with Marsha Ambrosius and Pusha T. The 2013 XU Idol competition closed with the crowning of Ahmeena Anderson, a sophomore Chemistry/PrePharmacy major from Chicago. Held in the UC Ballroom, the finale show was truly a test of talent. Nia Geiggar, Adolf Davis, and Olivia Sherman completed the talented group of four, each singing two songs that evening. During Anderson’s video interview, she was asked what she sung. “To give God the glory,” Anderson said. She also shared that she planned to fight her fear of singing in front of people. By her second song, a fantastic cover of Michael Jackson’s “Who’s Been Loving You?,” the audience was literally praising her performance. A phenomenal music competition was not the only thing that happened; Xavier made the Harlem Shake its
very own. The internet fad came alive during the show’s action pandemonium all in the intermission. After informing spirit of Xavier. the crowd about filming, host Kaleb Murray enthusiastically stood amongst the audience and danced. Seconds later, the song associated with the movement began to play. Seated students immediately erupted to their feet. The movie-like scene was live
Finalist (l-r): Ahmeena Anderson, Adolf Davis, Olivia Sherman, and Nia Geiggar
Oz: The Great and Powerful By Cameron Franklin
Staff Writer As soon as Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a two-bit circus magician with dubious morals, is flung away from his sandy, Kansas abode to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s struck a goldmine—the makings for a perfect rags to riches story is his for the taking—that is until he meets three attractive witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Unwillingly drawn into the enormous problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must discover for himself whose intentions are of goodwill and whose intentions are ill-spirited before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity— and even a touch of wizardry and
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wonderment—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful Wizard of Oz, but ultimately into a better man as well. In an era where cinematic reboots and remakes are a hot commodity, director Sam Raimi (known for the original Spider-Man trilogy) tries his best to create a believable world for the audience to transfix themselves in. Unfortunately, his efforts fall short to the high expectations set for this film.
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
Fight or Flight: The Grade Clock is Ticking… By Eric Craig Staff Writer
in determining whether there is a realistic possibility of passing the course successfully.”
Refuting the Grade: Proceed with Caution Spring break was great! After having a week of fun and unforgettable moments with friends, life can’t get any better. Right? Uh, then, you remember bad midterm grades. A “D” in English. An “F” in chemistry. A“C-” in philosophy. Suddenly, everything is in jeopardy. GPA. Financial Aid. Scholarships. Parents and their expectations. With only four weeks left before finals, can a grade be salvaged? When is it time to throw in the towel?
If a student is not content he or she can to refute the grade. To begin, Vaz suggests, “A student should discuss respectfully the grade on a test or assignment. It is easy to get into a mindset that says the teacher Are You to Blame? is against me.In Improving a poor grade is the rare highly subjective: everyone instances in does it differently. Fortunately, there are a couple of things you which the faculty and student are not able can do check your chances of passing. Dr. Kim Vaz, associate to resolve the situation and the deanof Xavier’s College of Arts student feels that she or she has not been given a fair grade, it is and Sciences, recommends, “A then proper to go to the chair of careful and honest assessment the department or division.” of one’s study habits, readiness Vaz saysas a last resort, the to take the course, emotional stability, financial pressures, and dispute can be taken to the health all have to be considered Dean’s office,
Students who have an FE due to excessive absences in a class have to consider it a loss, Vaz says. “Students should try and learn from every experience they have. They have to honestly assess why they have been missing classes and address the
core issues,” Vaz explains. “We have many support services on campus to address academic and mental health issues that are interfering with the success of the student. We encourage students to make frequent and liberal use of these services. We are here to help.”
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Worst Case Scenario: Withdrawal
it was at the last semester of attendance,” Vaz adds. A withdrawal from the university shouldn’t be viewed as If midterm grades a loss. “There is nothing in our are unsatisfactory lives that is a loss or a waste. I because of unfortunate encourage students to take the circumstances,withdrawing from long view. …It gives the student Xavier may be an alternative. time to correct academic skills Vaz told the Herald, deficits or to recover from an “One of the most illness, to break away from a bad difficult decisions a relationship or work and save student with failing money to get on a better financial grades can face at footing,”Vaz says. mid-semester is whether to withdraw For further guidance visit from the university. the Student Academic Success Although such cases Office, St. Joseph Academic and are not common, Health Center, room 106. Call a student in this 504.520.6282. The office is open situation is generally 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday in distress not only through Friday. academically, but oftentimes personally due to illness, financial problems, JOIN or due to extreme xulaherald.com family stress such as & a parent’s illness and death.” However, there are Xavier Herald consequences to withdrawing from the university. For starters, when a Send an email: student withdraws,the student must herald@xula.edu reapply for admission once he or she is ready to return. “Another consequence is that the student’s GPA will remain what
March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
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Health
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
I’m Sick! Now What Do I Do? By Armond Collins Staff writer
Xavier’s Student Health Services on is an integral part of the school, providing unlimited,walk-in care to all currently enrolled students.
note that the gynecology and women’s health visits are by appointment only.
Student Health services does not bill insurance companies,” says Pellerin.
If a student needs more extensive testing or treatment such as an x-ray or lab work done, Student Health Services will refer the student to another
What if I am too ill or hurt to make it to Student Health Services? If you are on campus while Student Health Services is open, call student health
What if I get sick at night or during the weekend?
Pellerin advises students to notify the dormitory manager and call a local emergency service provider such as Urgent Care or a local hospital emergency room.
When Can I Get Help? Monday: 8:30a.m – 4:30p.m Tuesday: 9:30a.m – 4:30p.m Wednesday – Friday: 8:30a.m – 4:30p.m Services Offered According to Virginia Pellerin, Director of Student Health Services, and the Student Health Services website, Student Health provides services as a primary care physician visit would: acute and chronic complaints, allergy injection management,and gynecology and women’s health are a few examples of what many students are able to have treated on campus. It is important to
Student Health Services Contact Information Phone: 504-520-7396 Website: www.xula.edu/ student-health
The Student Health Services Website recommends these nearby emergency rooms: University Hospital 2021 Perdido St 504-903-3000 Touro Infirmary 1401 Foucher St 504-897-7011
(L-R) Virginia Pellerin, Brenda Medley, Adrienne Dotson, Judy Waren trusted health care provider. All services are free, though there may be a minimal fee for some supplies like ace bandages, steroid shots, or a TB skin test. “Xavier requires student to have health insurance, but
services and the university police. Student Health Services will come to you, and the university police will direct emergency services to your location on campus.
Tulane Medical Center 1415 Tulane Ave 504-588-5263
Will I be excused from class? According to the Student Health Services website, absence slips will only be issued during the week of the illness, and that they must be notified on the first day of the illness.
COP Spotlight: Puncture Wounds and Tetanus Shots
By Queenet O. Ibekweh 2013 PharmD Candidate
Although we are less likely to attend lectures and carry on with our daily activities on campus with our bare feet, being aware of puncture wounds, the severity, possible offending agents that could be introduced into the body, and potential treatment options could be essential.
First of all, it is important to note the difference between puncture wounds and cuts. A puncture wound is caused by a pointed object and causes a small entry hole; a perfect example would be to step on a nail while rushing to a molecular biology class. In contrast, a cut is an open wound that presents as a long tear in the skin that does not produce a hole. Puncture wounds are more common in the foot and have been shown to be among the most inadequately treated conditions. This should be alarming to healthcare professionals and the community at large, because if not properly treated, infections and other complications could develop. Possible offending agents that can be embedded in a puncture wound include nails, glass, needles, and wood. In addition, pieces of your own skin, sock, shoe, and a variety of microorganisms can be forced
into the puncture wound. Irrespective of the source of the foreign body in the wound, any particle and/or organism that remains in the wound puts you at a greater risk for developing other complications. The severity of the puncture wound is dependent on factors such as wound depth, type and cleanliness of the penetrating object, and owning a pair of socks. The deeper the puncture wound, the greater the likelihood that complications, such as infections, will develop. Larger and longer objects can penetrate deeper into the tissues, possibly causing more damage, and dirtier objects are more likely to carry more pathogens. Individuals could have particles of socks and shoes trapped in their wounds thereby increasing their chance for complications. Getting proper treatment within 24 hours is especially important with puncture
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wounds; complications could be prevented if the affected individual seeks professional treatment immediately. A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process in order to prevent life-threatening infections. Tetanus is a bacterial disease that affects your nervous system, leading to painful muscle contractions, particularly of your jaw and neck muscles. Tetanus can interfere with your ability to breathe and, ultimately, lead to death. Vaccination is the best way to prevent tetanus. After the initial tetanus series, booster shots are recommended every 10 years. If you experience a puncture wound and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus shot or you cannot remember when you had your last tetanus shot —it is best to get the booster shot.
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News
March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
Page 11
A Student’s Murder Leaves Void By Cassie Smith Editor in Chief
Ambitions, hopes and dreams died with Xavier freshman Bertrand Dezara III when he was brutally murdered March 9, 2013, outside an apartment complex in eastern New Orleans. New Orleans Police Department detectives arrested Glynn Hawkins on March 19, and charged him with second-degree murder for allegedly shooting Dezara multiple times.
Sheriff’s records detail a long criminal history, with previous charges including possession of illegal/stolen weapons and illegal use of a weapon. Hawkins was released on parole in January 2013.
younger participants and always encouraged them to do well in school and attend
Police discovered Dezara’s body at 3 p.m. on March 9 in a courtyard at Lakewind East Apartments on Bundy Road. Police said he died at the scene. Family members told police they did not know Hawkins.
Dezara was a biology major and sports medicine Police also charged minor. The New Orleans Hawkins, 20, with illegal use native participated in Xavier of a weapon; possession of a University’s Upward Bound firearm or weapon by a felon; simple possession of marijuana; program prior to enrolling at the university in fall 2012. and parole violation. Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office records “Bertrand was an active show Hawkins is being held participant in the Upward at Orleans Parish Prison with Bound program since 2009. a bond set at $500,000 on the second-degree murder charge. He was a role model for our
college,” said Valerie Hicks, director of Upward Bound. Friends and classmates described Dezara as a nice, quiet student who was involved in academics. His cousin, Ayanna Neville, 24, told nola. com that “he was loving, caring; he had a sense of humor out of this world. While his murder is making headlines, there is more to Dezara’s story, said Xavier Provost Dr. Loren Blanchard.
Bertrand Dezara
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“The family shared with me that he was visiting a friend out in New Orleans East and was walking home when he was shot, but I think the bigger piece is that you had somebody who was truly on his way in terms of creating his life that would lead to a successful career,” said Blanchard. “The hope he had for a bright future
as well as the promise he had as a good student have been taken away not only from him but also from his family.” Blanchard has remained in contact with Dezara’s family. He said the university will hold a memorial service for the young victim in April. Nedra Alcorn, Associate Vice President of Student Services, will provide details to the Xavier community. “The reality of this is that all of our students are very special to us and to lose a student to this kind of crime really is saddening,” Blanchard said. “We wish there could be some kind of magical way we can protect and conceal our students, faculty and staff from any of this kind of harm. The reality is it’s just not possible.”
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March 21, 2013 - April 10, 2013
Students check out the St. Joseph's altar ceremony (March 19) and the Congo Square African dance (March 11).
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