H erald Xavier
@xulaherald
www.xulaherald.com
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Xavier University of Louisiana
New Orleans, La
New to NOLA? pg. 2 Dr. Benjamin Comes Home pg. 8 XU Sports Update pg. 10
#XULA
Page 2
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
New to NOLA? Here are ideas about where to go, what to do in and around XU check the hours on this website: http://library.tulane.edu/hours.
By Bria Smith Staff Writer
T
here are many options in the city for students who desire a change of scenery from Xavier’s campus life, even without a car. These destinations deserve some consideration:
Walking Distance Jazzman’s/Flambeaux’s-A
new café conveniently located inside the University Center offers a variety of items from po-boys and gumbo to smoothies and hot chocolate. Students find this place suitable for schoolwork and leisure at all times of the day. You can roll over in the morning to grab a cup of coffee, snag some candy to snack on before class, or even have dinner with friends. Although the prices are not very cheap, students can use their Rush Bucks to purchase itemsRush Bucks are a $50 allowance put on X-Cards by the university. Location and Hours- 1st Floor UC Mon-Fri: 7 a.m. -7 p.m. Sat-Sun: Closed
Wendy’s, McDonald’s, Popeye’s, and Subway- What is a
New Orleans Streetcar photo: RTA This is a wonderful place to eat and bask in the atmosphere for Japanese food lovers. Also located on Carrollton, it offers students a nice element of change. The sushi here is good, specifically the spicy tuna rolls and shrimp tempura. The prices are great considering the quality of food served, and it is available for delivery, dine-in, and take out. Location and Hours: 3301 S. Carrolton Ave. Mon-Fri and Sun: 11 a.m.- 10:30 p.m., Sat: 4-11 p.m.
quick fix for Japanese food? This underrated restaurant/sushi bar offers well-priced entrees ranging from 8-15 dollars.
Zea’s- When in the fancy mood,
Zea’s is the go-to place. The price is definitely more than most are willing to spend, but it’s worth every penny. The food is amazing and the atmosphere is very elegant. This may not be a frequent stop, but it is a definite treat to visit. Location and Hours: 1525 St. Charles Ave. Sun-Thurs: 11 a.m.10 p.m., Fri-Sat: 11 a.m.- 10:30 p.m.
Mid-City Market- With
Drive-to-Food
Dat Dog Dat Dog- With two college campus without locations on Freret and access to all of our favorite Magazine St., this restaurant has fast food spots? All the trusted an array of delicious toppings; names in the fast food industry Dat Dog is one of my favorites are available on S. Carrollton places to eat in the city. Food Ave(within a five-mile radius of here can be pricey, but the hearty the campus). The food is cheap meals make the price more than and well known, and it’s usually worth it. the hot spot for many Xavier Location and Hours: 3336 students without a car. Magazine St. or 5030 Freret St. Location and Hours- 3300 block Mon-Sat: 11-10 p.m., Sun: 11-9 of S. Carrollton Ave. Most close p.m. on the inside by 9 p.m.
Mikimoto- Looking for a
Magazine. On Tuesdays, The Rum House offers “Two Dollar Tacos”, and these are not just your ordinary tacos – they are available with shrimp, scallops, fish, BBQ, and brisket. Location and Hours: 3128 Magazine St. Sun-Thurs: 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri- Sat: 11 a.m.11p.m.
Rum House- This Caribbean
Taqueria located in the Garden District has great food and great prices. Students enjoy its’ fun atmosphere, and it’s an awesome pit stop when shopping on
options ranging from Panera Bread to Felipe’s that can be followed up with sweet treats like Pinkberry or Smoothie King, Mid-City Market is an amazing one-stop shop where cravings of all kinds can be satisfied. Location and Hours: 401 N. Carrollton Ave. Hours vary upon store, most close by 10 p.m.
is a great spot to watch the clouds during a class break or view the stars at night. Go up there and spend a little quality time with friends.
City Park-This is an excellent escape outdoors. The pond, the trees, the fresh air, and carefree people help calm and ease any tensions from school. Aside from the great natural environment, the park offers many attractions from botanical garden tours to miniature golfing, all at a cost efficient price. For example, the mini golfing attraction is Mid-City Market only $8. Location and Hours (for Attractions): 1 Palm Dr. Mon: Closed, TuesThurs and Sun: 10 a.m.- 10 p.m., Fri-Sat: 10 a.m.midnight
The Terrace-
With a scenic view and fresh air, the UC terrace Panera Bread
Getaways Tulane’s Library- If
you need to escape campus to find a place to study Tulane’s library is a nice stop. It offersa quiet environment needed to study, but without the trouble of being distracted by familiar classmates. Location and Hours: 7001 Freret St. Library hours vary on a regular basis but feel free to
xulaherald.com
City Park
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 3
Father Etido Jerome Joins Campus Ministry, Promotes Wider Student Participation By Corey Todd Staff Writer
X
avier University welcomed Father Etido Jerome, SSJ, as the new University Chaplain. Father Jerome joined the Office of Campus Ministry in August 2013. Father Jerome was born in Southern Nigeria, where he lived in his hometown of Nto Ubiam. Brought up in the Catholic Church from a very young age, he attended Mass regularly with his parents. He was a student chaplain at his school, which included assisting and conducting morning services and assemblies. In addition, He also participated in biblical quiz competitions in his parish, which focused on church history and doctrines. While still in school, Father Jerome joined a group of
evangelists after being inspired by a priest’s conversation, which concerned the name of God in different languages. Later in his life, he was influenced to participate in a Josephite program in Western Nigeria, and became a member shortly after. Father Jerome received his undergraduate degree in philosophy in Nigeria, and traveled to the United States in 2005 to study theology at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C. While at the House of Studies, he succeeded in attaining a Master’s in Divinity and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology. Father Jerome came to Xavier in the summer of 2013 to serve as the new chaplain and spoke during the special Freshman Orientation Mass on Aug. 18. Father Jerome invites everyone to visit the St. Katharine Drexel Chapel. “The
chapel presents a safe, nice, and serene environment,” Father Jerome said, “and also a divine presence for people. There is [also] a meditation room, if you need silence.” When asked what he would say to students who wish to explore their spirituality, he stated that one way of exploring is to be open to religious traditions that are a part of the school. Father Jerome would also like to add that students should allow God to be a part of their studies. “Although you have an academic life and a social life, you should also have a spiritual life,” he said Daily Mass is Monday Friday at 12 noon, and Sunday Mass is at 12:30 p.m. The Chapel is also open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for quiet prayer. (L-R) Deacon Larry Calvin, Father Etido Jerome and Sister Monica Loughlin, SBS, attend the fall staff institute.
xulaherald.com
Page 4
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
The Xavier Herald Staff Fall 2013 Editor-in-chief:: ANTHONY LOTTEN Copy editor: MAYA CLARK S & E editor: VASHNI BALLESTE Graphic design: LATASHA M. SMITH ERIC CRAIG Photographers: ERIC CRAIG, FRANZISKA PIRKL ALANDRYA MAYHORN Staff writers: COREY TODD ASHLEE HILL TIFFANY BROWN-LEE MAYA CLARK JORDAN REAVES WHITNEY GASTON-LLOYD
HERALD CONTACT INFORMATION
SGA Joins Hands For Community Service Our SGA theme for the year is “Leading the Xavier Community into a New Era of Excellence…” One way we plan to do this is through encouraging and facilitating the building of positive relationships on campus and in our community. It’s no secret that relationships are important. College is a crucial time during which we learn the value of the relationships we build on a personal and professional level. We can see right here on our campus the results great relationships can produce. For example, the Biology Club and G Whizz (MAX program) have been working together to increase
Javon Bracy, president; Michael Seaberry, chief of staff; Celeste awareness about recycling on campus and have been Edwards, secretary; Donielle Williams, Miss Xavier; Kaitland working to expand its reach. C.A.N. (the Celibacy and Brannon, treasurer; and Maura Jones, vice president. Abstinence Network) partnered with Intramural Sports
to bring us “XU After Dark.” Our e-board has even established a great working relationship with our counterparts at Dillard. We have begun plans for joint initiatives and events for the year!
xulaherald.com
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 The Xavier Herald is an award-winning newspaper produced by, for and about students at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, La. While The Herald is housed in the Department of Mass Communication, its contents do not necessarily reflect the views of the department or Xavier University. The Herald is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and as such adheres to the collegiate journalists’ code of ethics. The Herald staff reserves the right to accept, edit, or refuse content.
Publication dates: Oct. 1 Oct. 15 Oct. 29 Nov. 12 Nov. 26
Tweet Us @xulaherald Instagram: xulaherald
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 5
What’s on your mind?
“What campus venues would you like to see open after hours and why?” Dao Tran New Orleans, La. Sophomore, Chemistry Pre-Pharm I am a commuter and when I come to Xavier on the weekends to study in the morning I have to wait for the library to be open and try to find somewhere quiet. If the library was open for 24 hrs. I wouldn’t have to do that anymore.
Justin Bowers San Francisco, Calif. Senior, Business I would love to see the UC open after hours because the weather is getting colder and students need to go somewhere inside to socialize. Especially when there is no visitation, students still want to socialize and someone from XUPD can be there to supervise.
Breelin Clark Baton Rouge, La. Junior, Chemistry Pre-Pharm I think the UC should be open later in order for the campus to be more social. I think Xavier’s focus on academics is great but I feel students want to exercise their social skills. With the UC being open later there could be more opportunities for campus. activities and events.
Ethan Ellison Memphis, Tenn. Freshman, Chemistry Pre-Pharm I think the UC should be opened after hours because it is a place to relax and chill. I know St. Mike’s and KD Residence Halls only have certain hours of visitation so it would be nice if we could just all hang out in the UC instead of outside.
Bria Brossard New Orleans, La. Freshman, Chemistry Pre-Pharm On campus I know people like to exercise but are rarely able to because going to the gym cannot fit into their schedule. The gym should be opened after hours for those who want to get a late night work out in and don’t have time to do it during the daytime.
Kamberly Tate Atlanta, Ga. Junior, Biology Pre-Dentistry I would like to see St. Joseph Academic/Health Center opened after hours because there are computer resources, study areas, snack machines and a room to relax in.
By Ashlee Hill Staff Writer
Karnies Adams Tyler, Texas Senior, Political Science The hours of the fitness center are not reasonable for students who have busy schedules. Also quiet places to study like St. Joseph need extended hours becaushe library is not the quietest place.
Algeria Brasbon Philadelphia, Penn. Freshman, Biology Pre-Med I think the Café should be opened after hours because I don’t want to eat just junk food; I would like to have more fulfilling food after hours. I really don’t want to sit and eat snacks in my dorm
xulaherald.com
Page 6
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
In Search For Efficiency, Effectiveness, Xu Shuffles Departments, Divisions By Anthony Lotten Editor-In-Chief
During the summer, Xavier University reorganized from a department to division model and consolidated its academic resources and support staff, which Dr. Loren Blanchard, provost and senior vice president of academic affairs, said will enhance the university’s efficiency, effectiveness, and competitiveness. Then and Now Before the reorganization, Blanchard and College of Arts and Sciences Dean Anil Kukreja said the university was operating inefficiently. There were 21 department heads within the CAS who reported to him, Kukreja said. “It was not a very effective way to operate,” he said. “That was too many department chairs reporting to just one dean.” The university switched to a model of six divisions, each containing specific departments, and division chairs now report to the dean. Kukreja said this allows them to “manage and monitor the progress of all of the departments more closely, ensuring they receive the guidance and resources they need.” The six divisions are: •Biological and Public Health Sciences: Dr. Calvin Porter, chair. Departments of biology and public health sciences. •Business: Dr. Joe Ricks, chair. •Education and Counseling: Dr. Renee Akbar, chair. •Humanities and Fine Arts: Dr. David Lanoue, chair. Departments of art, English, history, languages, music, philosophy and theology. •Mathematical and Physical Sciences: Dr. Maryam Foroozesh, chair. Departments of chemistry, computer science, mathematics and physics. •Social and Behavioral Sciences: Dr. Amy BelloneHite, chair. Departments of
communication studies, mass communication, political science, psychology, sociology and speech pathology. One result of restructuring the CAS will be interdisciplinary studies. Faculty from previously separate departments can now collaborate to create more shared courses, programs, and experiences, Blanchard explained. For example, a class could combine history and theology and thus focus on the history of theology. The popular field of neuroscience began as an interdisciplinary study, fusing behavioral psychology with biology. Blanchard said as departments blend together, it will spawn a flexible curriculum, attracting scholarship and students. Also, it is more cost efficient for the university and many part-time faculty members will not be needed. For students, there is no real immediate impact, Blanchard said. Advising, majors, and courses will remain the same, but down the line, more interdisciplinary programs and classes will be offered. The goal is to boost student competiveness by providing highly skilled knowledge across disciplines, thus achieving a unified approach to educational opportunities and embellishing students with marketable skills after graduating, Blanchard said. Impact on Resources The reorganization also created the Career Advancement Center, which now houses Career Services, Graduate Placement and the Center for Intercultural and International Programs. The CAC director is Lasana Cambrice. All of these programs continue to be housed in St. Joseph Academic and Health Resource Center. Though changes have been made, the reorganizing process still has some way to go, Blanchard said. It was undertaken under the vision of strengthening educational opportunities, and improving
the management and quality of education at Xavier. “As the world changes, so does Xavier have to change
with the world,” Blanchard said. More details on the divisions, departments, and
student services can be found by utilizing specific drop-down menus on the home page at www.xula.edu.
Dr. Calvin Porter Biological and Public Health
Dr. David Lanoue Humanities and Fine Arts
Dr. Joe Ricks Business
Dr. Renee Akbar Education and Counseling
Dr. Maryam Foroozesh Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Dr. Amy Bellone-Hite Social and Behavioral Sciences
From Left to Right: Dr. Anil Krukreja, Dean CAS; Dr. Marguerite Giguette, associate vice president of academic affairs; Dr. Krista Mincey, Dr. Kamrun Mustafa, and Dr. Kenneth Boutte, public health sciences; and Dr. Loren Blachard, provost and senior vice president of academic affairs.
xulaherald.com
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 7
xulaherald.com
Page 8
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
For Dr. Regina Benjamin, homecoming follows 34 years of community health care, national service By Anthony Lotten Editor-In-Chief
Since graduating from Xavier University in 1979, Regina Benjamin became a distinguished physician, founded a free health care clinic in an underserved Alabama community, and was appointed by President Barrack Obama as the nation’s 18th U.S. Surgeon General. After serving five years as “America’s doctor,” Benjamin resigned in July 2013. On Sept. 13, Xavier University held a press conference where President Norman C. Francis announced Benjamin’s return to Xavier as
Dr. Regina Benjamin and the ladies of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
the nola.com/Times-Picayune Endowed Chair in Public Health Sciences.
Public Health Sciences Offers Plethora Of Career Options By Anthony Lotten Editor-In-Chief
Public Health Sciences is the newest major and minor at Xavier University. What is Public Health, you ask? Public Health covers every aspect of our lives. The ability to have clean and safe drinking water, pedestrian walkways, proper trash disposal, and access to public transportation are all public health. In public health, we look at the things outside of a person that affect their health like access to healthy food, access to medical care, and a safe environment. In public health, the individual is not the only reason for poor health. Some career paths in public health are health educator, environmental specialist, biostatistician, nursing, health policy analyst, and epidemiologist. Public health professionals work in the private and public sector at the local, state, federal, and international level. Some potential job avenues for public health professionals are health communications, health education, environmental specialists, biostatistician, epidemiologists, health policy analyst, researcher, administrator, demographer, social worker, and laboratory scientist. Why major in public health? Here’s what some of our students had to say. “I chose public health because I feel as though it is a way to impact [a] large amount of people in terms of health promotion and prevention.”—Kofi Bissah, junior “I chose public health because it gives me an opportunity to help others and make a difference not just for individuals but for entire communities.”—Celeste Carter, Junior “I chose to major in public health because I wanted [to] make a difference in other people’s lives.”— Chilita White, sophomore If you would like more information on public health and activities in the department, follow us on twitter @XUPublicHealth.
Dr. Regina Benjamin poses with Dr. Krista Mincey
Student to Surgeon General As a freshman, Benjamin entered Xavier without a clear direction. “I had never seen a black physician,” Benjamin told the press conference audience. “I had no idea I wanted to be a doctor. I didn’t know what I wanted to do in college.” The most popular organization on campus was the pre-med club, and she felt compelled to join. Benjamin immersed herself into the club’s competitive spirit, and one thing led to another. After graduating from Xavier with a BS in chemistry, Benjamin said she earned a medical degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Benjamin said she put Xavier’s emphasis on social justice to work in 1990 when she opened a rural health clinic in Bayou La Batre, Ala. This provided a largely underserved community affordable and quality medical support. The clinic became a symbol of Benjamin and the community’s resolve. It was heavily damaged by Hurricane Georges in 1998 and Katrina in 2005. And on New Year’s Eve in 2005, the day before the clinic was to reopen,
xulaherald.com
will host global conferences, organize community initiatives like “Everybody Walk” and smoking cessation, teach and generate grants. She also is continuing to volunteer at her clinic in Bayou La Batre. Public and preventative health care work is very dear to Benjamin. “Prevention is very important to me. My mother died of lung cancer from smoking, which she started as a teenager,” Benjamin said. “My father died of complications from a stroke and hypertension, and my brother
a devastating fire struck. Despite the setbacks, Benjamin said the community and her practice rallied. In 2009, President Obama recognized her efforts by appointing Benjamin as the 18th U.S. Surgeon General, the highest ranking medical position in the country. During her Dr. Regina Benjamin and Xavier Alum, tenure, Benjamin Councilwoman Latoya Cantrell said she worked to create a more healthy and fit nation through focusing on public health and preventable diseases.
The Return Home Now as Xavier’s first Public Health Sciences endowed chair, Benjamin said, “I look forward to positioning Xavier as an international center for public health, with a Sr. Grace Mary Flickinger pauses for a moment to strong emphasis on take a picture with Dr. Regina Benjamin community.” She
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 9
Division of Business
Under Armour Internship Validates Student’s Work
By Victoria Thompson Junior, Accounting
T
his summer, I worked at Under Armour, Inc., in Baltimore, Md., as an Accounting Compliance Recruit. Under Armour is a sports apparel company founded 17 years ago by Kevin Plank, a former University of Maryland football player. I learned about this job
from a friend, who had interned at Under Armour the previous summer. After I began working at Under Armour, I learned that thousands of applicants had applied for only 50 internships. I worked in a number of different areas of accounting during my eleven weeks at Under Armour. One recurring project that I was assigned was helping with the monthly close. In that assignment, I completed bank reconciliations, booked and logged journal entries, and ran reports for the company at the end of every period. Other major projects that I was assigned during the summer included gathering information for state sales tax and NFL audits, issuing product royalties and creating a lease database for all of the retail stores. Initially, I was extremely anxious about working at Under
Armour. There were students there from the top schools in the country, and I did not know if I could compete. I was one of four interns in the class of 50 to come from an HBCU. This was the largest number of HBCU students the internship program had ever had. I found that I was fully capable of doing all of the work that I was assigned. I received excellent reviews at the end of the summer, and I fit in perfectly with all of the other students from all over the country. Xavier has given me an extremely good foundation in accounting and business, and after this summer I can say with confidence that our students can compete with the best of them. I was extremely proud to represent Xavier this summer, and I could not have asked for a better internship experience.
xulaherald.com
Page 10
...And They’re Off!
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Xavier’s Cross-Country Teams Find Their Places on the Field.
The start of the Loyola Wolfpack Invitational at Lafreniere Park in Metairie. Photo by Kayla Irby
By Maya Clark Staff Writer avier’s Cross Country Gold Rush and Gold Nuggets are a little over halfway through their 2013 season. They have competed in four meets and have three races to go. Their first meet was the Mississippi College Opener. The men came in first place out of seven teams. The women placed third out of seven. A week later, Xavier competed in their only home meet of the season: the Loyola Wolf Pack Invitational in Metairie. The Men and Women each placed third out of seven in their respective races. On September 14, the Gulf Coast Stampede took the Cross Country Xavierites to Pensacola. The Gold Rush
second out of five. The captains for the Men’s and Women’s teams, Kwame Jackson and Catherine Fakler, each hope for their respective teams to have a repeat championship at the NAIA
X
Back Row (L-R): Team Manager Ashley Taylor, Reeka Belton, Briana Simms, Danielle Rogers, Catherine Fakler, Donye Coleman, Team Manager Brittney Lewis, Athletic Trainer Melvin Wallace; Front Row (L-R): Hali Yarmush, Zahri Jackson, Coach Joseph Moses, Ashley Flournoy, Hannah Finnegan
placed sixth out of nine and the Gold Nuggets were sixth out of ten. On Saturday, the Gold Rush and Gold Nuggets went to
Fort Worth, Texas for the Ram Ramble Invitational. Out of three teams, the Men’s team placed second. The Women placed
In sports, the key to being a winner is not decided just in the won or lost column; it lies in the heart of the team. This year’s Xavier University
Franziska Pirkl sets the ball. Photos by E. Craig.
volleyball team is full of heart, according to the new head coach Hannah Lawing and assistant Kenneth Marraccolli. Members of the Gold Nuggets include: Jodi Chatters, Sophomore, Lake Charles, La.; Kerris Crier, Senior, Houston, Texas; Chinedu Echebelem, Junior, Dallas, Texas; Darian Harris, Sophomore, Gretna, La.; Claudia Haywood, Sophomore, Memphis, Tenn.; Jodi Hill, Sophomore, Prairieville, La.; Destiny Jackson, Freshman, Gaston, S.C.; Moira Kirk, Junior, Dallas, Texas; Franziska Pirkl, Sophomore, Munich, Germany; Alexandria Rencher, Junior, Mobile, Ala.; Emily Reuther, Freshman, Metairie, La.; Taylor Reuther, Junior, Metairie, La.; CeCe Williams, Sophomore, Houma, La. Lawing was promoted to head coach after her first coaching season as an assistant last year. She played NCAA Division 1 volleyball at the University of South Carolina, where she graduated in 2011. Despite reshaping the coaching staff, adding new play-
Back Row (L-R): Brent Kitto, Emmanuel Detiege, Aaron Yarmush, Athletic Trainer Melvin Wallace; Front Row (L-R): David Holobowicz, Kwame Jackson, Coach Joseph Moses, Javon Mead, Christopher August
conference with three consecutive wins in their Convocation Center debut. Just approaching the ers and learning to play in a new midseason mark, the women have facility, the Gold Nuggets are seven more opportunities to steal performing well. wins at home, the next being an As of Oct. 1, the Gold Oct 5 double header. The Nuggets Nuggets are on a six game will play two matches, the first winning streak. They are 12-7 versus “crosstown rival” Dillard at overall, 4-0 in the Gulf Coast 1pm and University of St. Thomas Conference. (Houston) at 4pm. Using a coaching tactic Though the season is and scheduling harder games far from over, the team is making for the team, Lawing is pleased steady progress towards their end with her team despite some of the season goal. Both coaches early losses. The Nuggets picked listed tangible goals such as up some wins during opening winning the Gulf Coast Athletic
Spotlight on the Spike By Whitney Gaston-Loyd Staff Writer
National Championships in Lawrence, Kansas on November 23 and finish with a perfect score, meaning that first five Xavier finishers are also the first five finishers for the race.
Conference.
Upcoming Matches: Oct. 5 against DILLARD CONVOCATION CENTER 1 p.m. Oct. 5 against ST. THOMAS (TEXAS) CONVOCATION CENTER 4 p.m. Oct. 15 against MOBILE CONVOCATION CENTER 7 p.m.
The Gold Nuggets are on a winning streak. Shown are (l-r): CeCe Williams, Moira Kirk, Franziska Pirkl, Kerris Crier, Emily Reuther, Darian Harris, Jodi Hill, Claudia Haywood, and Alexandria Rencher.
xulaherald.com
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 11
It All Starts With Giving Back
MAX gives back and explains how you can, too. By Jordan Reaves Staff Writer
X
avier is often praised for the large range of future professionals Xaverites will become. Contributing to student success at Xavier is participation in community service projects and community service clubs. One such club is MAX, short for Mobilization at Xavier. As the start date quickly approaches, the current and interested MAX participants definitely have something to look forward to. MAX’s involvement with the community is insurmountable. Events include outreach at local shelters and kitchens. There are health fairs and blood drives, as fellow community members reach out to help the medically less fortunate in New Orleans. Opportunities thrive for assisting children in the community that need help in both reading and education as a whole. Mentoring
programs, from the young to old, are a great way to help. Moreover, Taylor Thibeaux, a current MAX Co-Chair and Red Cross Coordinator, remarks there is a “stellar outreach opportunity that caters to young children on our very own campus.” Not only Vanencia Lynch and Ebonee Mackey lend a hand selling Girl Scout does MAX work on mentoring cookies. and outreach programs, but also environmental and health programs. The environmental programs endorse going green, healthy living and healthy eating. Also, first aid and fire safety alert the community of such possible threats and how to prepare for such events. Lastly, but most importantly, there are MAX programs that supply New Orleans residents with information about hurricane preparedness and the precautionary tasks needed to be taken. For those interested in MAX, there are applications in the UC room 316, or you can email max@xula.edu with questions.
Imani McGlen adopts a grandperson.
MAX Volunteers play games with children on Outreach Day.
First XU Students Travel To China By Tiffany Brownlee Staff Writer
S
ince the opening of the Confucius Institute in mid-October last year, the staff and faculty associated with the Institute has had many opportunities to immerse Xavier students in the Chinese culture, and they kept the pace going during the summer with A trip to China. Accompanied by Shu Peng and Dr. Lori Crawford, nine Xavier students from an array of different majors were given the opportunity to take a two-week summer camp trip to Hebei University in China. The Confucius Institute exchange included: Jazmine Thompson (Pharmacy), Joseph Hicks III (Education), Adina Ewing (Pharmacy), Sheldon Maurice (Biology), Sheridon Trepagnier IV (Education), Ahmeena Johnson Anderson (Chemistry/Pre-Pharmacy), Avion Bailey (Biology), A'Vanti Glenn (Music) and Leonard Fitzgerald (Political Science).
The students traveled to Hebei University in Baoding, Hebei Province, China—about a 90-minute drive from Beijing. To attend, the students were required to have taken at least one course in Mandarin Chinese or have already been trained in the language. The Institute raised enough money to pay for everything on the trip, which surprised many of the students who attended. Fully immersed in the Chinese culture, the students said they would wake up and attend language lessons in the morning, and then use the rest of each day to explore the city and attend Hebei University culture events.
The students were even able to visit Beijing for three days and while there, they visited the Great Wall of China, the Beijing Zoo, and the Confucius Institute Headquarters. A second trip is already in the works, says Dr. Yu Jiang, the director of the Xavier Confucius Institute, and the cost of transportation, lodging, food, and cultural excursions will be covered by the Haban/Confucius Institute Headquarters. Jiang said the Institute is fundraising to subsidize airfare, as well. For more information about the Confucius Institute or to talk to someone about taking a course in Chinese Mandarin,
From L to R: Mrs. Shu Peng, Sheridon Trepagnier, Sheldon Maurice, Ahmeena Johnson Anderson, Leonard Clay, Dr. Lori Crawford, Joseph Hicks, Avion Bailey, Jazmine Thompson, Adina Ewing, A’Vanti Glenn.
email the Confucius Institute at confucius@xula.edu or send Jiang an email at yjiang@xula. edu. You can also visit the Confucius Institute website at
www.xula.edu/confucius/index. php or visit the institute office located in St. Joseph Health and Academic Resource Center, Room 204.
From L to R: Ahmeena Johnson Anderson, A’Vanti Glenn, Jazmin Tompson, Sheldon Maurice, Sheridon Trepagnier, Adina Ewing, Avion Bailey, Leonard Clay, Dr. Lori Crawford, Joseph Hicks, Gang Wang, at The Great Wall of China.
xulaherald.com
Page 12
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
xulaherald.com
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 13
xulaherald.com
Page 14
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Doc McStuffins II: Valentine’s Day Dr. Christy Valentine, ‘96, Living a Dream By Eric Craig Staff Writer
D
r. Christy Valentine is the living reality of Doc McStuffins, a Disney Junior cartoon star that pursues the practice of medicine. Valentine is a member of the Artemis Medical Society, a’96 graduate of Xavier University, and an accomplished pediatric physician. On Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013, Valentine took the day off of her medical practices to support the Doc McStuffins tour in partnership with the Artemis society. Doc McStuffins is a cartoon series on the Disney Junior channel that spotlights an African-American girl who
aspires to be a medical physician. She practices on stuffed animals that come to life and call her “Doc McStuffins.” Disney Junior hosted a Doc McStuffins mobile tour at Audubon Zoo, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to express to young children and parents the empowering experiences relating to health and nutrition. The Artemis society partnered with the Doc Mcstuffins tour for a more crucial issue: Recognizing
the presence of African American physicians. During Black History month, this association between Artemis and Disney Junior was recognized as the “We Are Doc McStuffins Movement.” The movement was an effort to raise awareness of Black medical physicians. Valentine remarks, “The goal is to tell people that there are Black women doctors, and they live in New Orleans, in the
Dr. Christy Valentine, ‘96 Xavier Graduate
xulaherald.com
surrounding areas. We take care of people; and we like and love what we do. We are grateful for the opportunity to do it here in a city that means so much to all of us.” As Valentine reflects, her eyes fill with joy. “We are really making a positive impact on the children’s lives,” Valentine said. “It’s humbling to see the parents here say ‘Wow, thank you for coming. We really appreciate it.’” “It’s not that you just go to the doctor, you can be the doctor,” Valentine notes. Valentine is an original member of the Artemis Medical society. The Artemis Society is a medical organization founded by Dr. Myeisha Taylor, a ’96 Xavier graduate, which provides a support system to AfricanAmerican women physicians. Currently there are over 3000 members. Valentine stresses the importance of the society to not only help its members, but the community around them. Valentine received her
Disney Channel’s Doc McStuffins, artwork by E. Craig
undergraduate degree from Xavier University of Louisiana in 1996 and her medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in 2000. Valentine owns pediatric medical centers in New Orleans and Gretna, La. Valentine is considered a 2013 Healthcare Hero in the “New Orleans City Business.”
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 15
Kenner Metropolitan Alumni Chapter
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Beta Iota Chapter Xavier University Is INACTIVE until further notice. Therefore, membership intake, of any kind, is strictly prohibited. Please contact Gervy Papion, Alumni Advisor, with any questions or concerns. 504-251-5319 ggpapion@aol.com
xulaherald.com
Page 16
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
PHILOSOPHY AT XU
The Philosophy Department is forming a new club open to any Xavier student interested in thinking more critically and deeply aboutpressing questions of the day—like “Is drone warfare morally acceptable?”—as well as eternal questions—like “What will happen to me after I die?” If this sounds like you, contact Dr. Jason Berntsen at jberntse@xula.edu for more information about the club’s activities, how to join, and why joining will help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
xulaherald.com
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 17
Does Chemistry have you down? Hard keeping up with electrons? Heisenberg may have been uncertain, but you don't need to be.
Chemistry Resource Centers
FREE tutoring for all XU students No appointment required General Chemistry Monday –Saturday NCF 108
Organic Chemistry Monday - Saturday NCF Annex 3rd floor study center
Full schedule available at: http://www.xula.edu/saso/chemis try.php or contact Wayne Brown, wbrown5@xula.edu, with specific concerns.
xulaherald.com
Page 18
Here Is Where You Turn Back: XU Launches Performance Studies Lab By Dr. Lisa Flanagan, Assistant Professor, Communication Studies Dr. Ross Louis, Associate Professor and Head, Communication Studies Dr. Robin G. Vander, Associate Professor, English and African American & Diaspora Studies
T
his academic year, Xavier launches its Performance Studies Laboratory with a three-show season of live events spread across two semesters; the first installment taking place Nov. 6-8 with the staging of “Here Is Where You Turn Back,” adaptations of three stories inspired by the City of New Orleans. As co-directors for this first show, we have chosen to adapt and stage the works of Arna Bontemps (“Talk to the Music”), Alice Dunbar Nelson (“The Goodness of St. Rocque”), and Ishmael Reed (Mumbo Jumbo), respectively. Aware of the approaching 300th anniversary of the founding of New Orleans, we wanted to depict the city across time and space with texts that recorded its lived and imagined history, chronicled its cultural heritage, and unabashedly celebrated some of its rather colorful citizens.
We hope our staged adaptation will marshal in a new campus tradition of an annual season of interdisciplinary, creative, scholarly shows – all conducted through the critical lens of Performance Studies. With the Performance Studies Laboratory, we hope to build on the research and teaching that currently exists campus-wide and forge new areas of teaching and critical inquiry. Performance Studies is often referred to as an embodied way of knowing. It is a scholarship of and for the senses. We study performance in contexts such as literature, cultural ritual and rites of passage, identity construction, civic engagement and political actions, and visual and material culture, among others. Performance Studies allow us to make sense of ourselves and others. In creating the
Performance Studies Laboratory here at Xavier University we hope to build bridges between academic departments and divisions, so that the work fosters interdisciplinary/interdivisional collaborations among faculty and students. Other faculty who work with us include: Drs. Kimberly Chandler and Liz Edgecomb, communication studies: and Ron Bechet, art. For the past three years, these faculty have mentored students through on-campus performances, participation at national performance festivals, and a wide range of Performance Studies courses in Communication Studies, English, and African American & Diaspora Studies. The Department of Communication Studies includes Performance Studies as one of its key areas of study, offering four different courses in the discipline.
SOCIOLOGY: It’s What’s for dinner!
More than half of Xavier’s sociology majors go on to graduate school within five years of graduation In the past ten years, all Xavier students going on to doctoral programs in Sociology have received full fellowships/scholarships to finance their graduate education Sociology majors often have a job lined up before graduation Sociology majors go on to fields as diverse as law, health, family services, government, the media, education and business Come by Xavier South, room 500, and talk to us about designing YOUR future in sociology!
xulaherald.com
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
Page 19
October 1, 2013 - October 14, 2013
xulaherald.com
We Are