PG. 3
TODD JULUKE: Ex-THUG TURNED ACTIVIST
PG. 8
x avier students participate in 2 0 1 5 m illion m an m arch
PG. 9
gold rush & Gold nuggets season preview
The Xavier Herald
@xulaherald
xulaherald.com
Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
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Xavier University of Louisiana
New Orleans, La.
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Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
Xavier Takes Center Stage in Black Lives Matter Movement by Kendall Lawson Staff Writer
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s a response to racial conflicts and injustices facing the African-American community, the Institute for Black Catholic Studies at Xavier will host a national symposium featuring leading civil rights, education, religious and community leaders from across the country. The “Black Lives Matter: Race, Violence, Poverty” conference takes place Nov. 6-7, 2015, at the University Center, and it will focus on issues of racial conflict, discrimination, the current violent culture in America, and the high poverty rate in the African-American community, according to the Rev. Dr. Maurice Nutt, the IBCS director.
Rev. Dr. Maurice Nutt.
The event is free for Xavier students. Nutt said XU students can register online or during pre-conference registration from noon to 3 p.m. on Nov. 4-5 in the UC. Event registration for non-XU students is $10. General admission is $40, which includes both days, and group rates are available. Other fee packages include live streaming. Complete information, including registration and the event schedule, is online at http:// www.xulablacklivesmatter.com, and at the IBCS office, Xavier South, Suite 560, telephone 504.273.7300.
Friday, Nov. 6 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. The opening event includes a 7 p.m. keynote address by Rev. Bryan Massingale, a professor of ethics and theology at Marquette University, who links religious faith with social
activism. Nutt said there will be a jazz reception and the evening ends with a spoken word and open mic event geared toward students.
Saturday, Nov. 7 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. University Center Ballroom: Activist and Teach for America executive director Brittany Packnett is expected to draw a crowd for her address at 9 a.m. Following her high profile activism in Ferguson, Mo., and as facilitator of the “Ferguson Fireside Conference Calls,” President Barack Obama appointed Packnett to his task force on 21st Century Policing. The St. Louis, Mo., native is a longtime educator, and TIME Magazine named Packnett “One of 12 New Faces of Black Leadership.” “Education avoided a traumatic experience in Ferguson, thanks to Packnett,” Nutt said.“This young woman is phenomenal and is making a difference. Xavier is blessed to have her come to campus. Students need to come and be motivated by this phenomenal woman.”
Xavier takes center stage “I hope this puts Xavier University in the front of this issue,” said Dr. Turner, an assistant professor in Xavier’s department of psychology and a guest panelist. “Right now, Xavier University is a place moving with the Black Lives Matter movement through the IBCS symposium. This can be the start of something big. HBCUs have to take the step forward. I applaud all those playing a role in making this a success. … Does your life matter? If it does, you need to be at this symposium so you can go deeper into your own racial culture and identity,” Turner said. Since 1980, the IBCS has provided a spiritual, cultural, and intellectual focus on the
Black Catholic faith, according to Nutt. The Black Lives Matter symposium is another extension of the mission of service Xavier’s foundress St. Katharine Drexel began when the university opened in 1925. When St. Katharine Drexel founded Xavier during a period of segregation in the South, she was effectively proving ‘black lives matter,’” Nutt said.“I feel Xavier University, being black and Catholic, needs to address these critical issues of racism, poverty, and unawareness in our society. I took this as a challenge and an encouragement to make something happen; thus, the birth of IBCS’s Black Lives Matter symposium.” Turner said the Black Lives Matter movement and Xavier’s symposium cross many barriers. “At the end of the day, we have to recognize we live in a society where people are different but
The Symposium will Feature:
Qatar Pavilion: There will be two workshop sessions from 10:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Topics include: “Understanding White Privilege,” “Black Mass Incarceration,” “Black and Blue: How to Deal with Police,” “Racial & Cultural Consciousness,” and “The Enduring Effects of Black Poverty.” Speakers and details are online at www. xulablacklivesmatter.com. University Center: Following lunch, nola.com/ The Times-Picayune awardwinning columnist Jarvis DeBerry moderates a panel discussion at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Michael Pfleger, Judge Keva Landrum-Johnson, Judge Morris Reed, Erika McConduit, and Xavier’s Dr. Brian Turner. U.S. Attorney Kenneth Polite gives closing remarks at 2:30 p.m.
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may share the same goals,” Turner said. “It’s the moment when we degrade each other that we miss out on that. We need to fight for the equality of all people, no matter their differences.” A student delegation from Dillard University will be among many from campuses across the country, Nutt said. Likewise, he hopes Xavier students will register and turn out in force. “This will be a time for other college students and young people all over the country to speak on what the Black Lives Matter movement means to you,” Nutt said “This symposium is not about listening and going to workshops, but to speak your heart and your mind about this movement and the value of black lives.” Follow symposium details at www.xulablacklivesmatter. com.
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Todd Juluke: “Black Lives Mattered, But Not Mine” by Kaelin Maloid Staff Writer
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odd Juluke is a New Orleans native who came from the “ideal family” with a twoparent home, three children, and a mother who didn’t “play that.” He and his brother attended St. Augustine High School, and his sister attended St. Mary’s. “We had the Catholic education all around,” Juluke told The Xavier Herald. Juluke was recruited to play basketball for Florida Memorial University at Miami, where he majored in chemistry. At the end of his senior year, Juluke— only a class or two away from graduating—quit basketball, dropped out of college and became a drug user and dealer back in New Orleans. “There’s a mythical marriage between athletes and drugs,” Juluke said. While his story could have ended tragically, Juluke turned his life around. Today, he is a self-described ex-thug, social activist, scholar and Buddhist. He will share his story on Nov. 4 when Xavier’s Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences hosts “A Xavier Evening of Reflection on Juvenile Justice” at the CANO Creative Space in the Myrtle Banks Building, 1307 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd. The free event is at 6 p.m. and includes the “Juvenile In Justice” photography exhibit. Students should RSVP by Nov. 2 with Dr. Pamela WaldronMoore at pnmoore@xula.edu or call the Xavier Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences at 504.520.7400 Drug dealer, street thug Juluke said he recruited dealers and users in New Orleans. Uptown, downtown, on the west bank, everywhere. His trade made him popular in the projects. He also used drugs. Addiction doesn’t separate the dealer and the user, according to Juluke. He was so addicted, the once-respected athlete ended up homeless, untrustworthy, and doing things he declines to detail for drugs. “Black lives mattered then,” Juluke said. “But my own
didn’t.” He spent a few years in and out of jail. In 2000, criminal district court judge Leon Cannizzaro sentenced Juluke to 10 years in prison. He was released in 2008. Juluke’s criminal past and his addiction made it tough for him to find a job. He contacted Cannizzaro, who had been elected Orleans Parish District Attorney. Cannizzaro saw that Juluke was trying to turn his life around, so the man who sentenced him to prison hired the ex-convict, who now works in the district attorney's diversion program. Juluke said he attempts to steer repeat offenders on the right path—away from jail. He also works at Morning Call in New Orleans City Park on the weekends to pay his bills and to network. Juluke said increasing his network increases his networth.
Juluke practices Nichiren Buddhism. He is a member of SokaGakkai International, which has 12 million practitioners in 92 countries. The goal of SokaGakkai is to “propagate
peace and happiness for all people, and to recognize the value people have as human beings,” according to SGI. Every morning and evening, Juluke chants “Nam-myoho-
renge-kyo” to give his life a positive foundation. “I can’t tell people they need to change, I have to show them,” said Juluke.
Todd Juluke works at the New Orleans District Attorney Aversion Program Photo by Eric Craig
From convict to scholar A key component in his ongoing rehabilitation is education, according to Juluke. He earned a Bachelor of Science in addictive behavior and counseling from Southern University at New Orleans, where he’s now working on a Master of Social Work degree. As an MSW, Juluke wants to begin an aftercare program for people leaving incarceration, but because he is a convicted felon, he must first be granted clemency. Juluke applied for clemency, and in September, the Louisiana Board of Pardons and Parole voted unanimously in his favor and sent its recommendation to Gov. Bobby Jindal. The New Orleans Advocate reported there are some 600 clemency requests awaiting Jindal’s decision. Wisdom through Buddhism Juluke was sweeping floors at Harrah’s Casino when he met Mikhala Iversen, a jazz vocalist from Copenhagen, Denmark. After a relapse in 2012, Iversen encouraged him to enter an addiction recovery program. He’s been clean for the past three years, something he attributes to Iversen and the Buddhist practice she introduced him to. “When I turned to Buddhism, it felt like my life took off,” Juluke said.
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Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
The Xavier Herald Staff FALL 2015
Editor-in-chief: Ashlee Hill Graphic Design Nicholas Davison Meredith Williams
Photographers Eric Craig Natese Dockery Ahmed Arsah Luis Marquez
Staff Writers
Kendall Lawson Natese dockery Jasmine Renard Eric Craig Morgan Yates
Sports
Kaelin Maloid
Webteam Mark Veals
Contributing writers Cozette Boakye Rasaan T. Hollis
Student Publication Director : Melinda L. Shelton 504.520.5096, mshelton@xula.edu
HERALD CONTACT INFORMATION
Herald office:
Email stories: Advertising:
Xavier South, 605 504.520.5096 herald@xula.edu 504.520.5096
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.
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Tweet Us @xulaherald Instagram: xulaherald Nov. 10 Nov. 24
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Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
Xavier, City Pay Tribute to “First Lady” Blanche Francis the Convocation Center. “I can’t remember a day without her,” said Jasmine ixed emotions, Francis, who is a graduating from laughter to senior at Xavier. She said the tears, filled the years both her grandparents Xavier University dedicated to Xavier can be seen Convocation Center Oct. 15, in the university’s strength, 2015, for a woman who left reputation, and success. a legacy and will never be “My grandmother and I forgotten by her friends, Xavier share the same birthday. We students, and loved ones. both would celebrate and it is Blanche Macdonald Francis unbearable to think that this year she won’t be here,” Jasmine Francis said. When Jasmine would visit her grandmother, the first words she would hear were, “You better give your grandma a kiss and a hug.” “The house would smell of all kinds of baked goods and food, and my grandma would go through her closet and show me all her gowns that she was most proud of,” Jasmine Francis said. Blanche Francis was an open person but blunt at times, said Michael Francis, her son, as he greeted those who came to pay their respects. As their mother, she wanted the best for was born on Oct. 31, 1926, and passed away Oct. 12, 2015. The him, and his brothers and sisters, Michael said. university and the City of New “She always advocated Orleans came together to lay examples of service and Xavier’s long-time “first lady” leadership,” Michael said. One to rest at her funeral service of the moments where her at the St. Louis Cathedral on leadership really showed was Friday, Oct. 16. when she worked to integrate One day earlier, the Carrollton Park in 1968, where university community filed black children were not allowed in one-by-one to say their to play. goodbyes and pay respects at Francis’s memorial visitation in by Allana Barefield Staff Writer
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Blanche Francis’s family gathers for a photo in the St. Katherine Drexel Chapel. Other memorial visitors shared their personal experiences with Blanche Francis. The Rev. Dianne Piper Wooden of First Street Peck Wesley United Methodist Church in Central City said she grew up with Blanche Francis because their mothers attended Xavier University Preparatory School together. Wooden shared that she was at Blanche Francis’ house in 1963 as they both saw the news of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. “She had this personality that made you smile and made sure everything will be fine,” Wooden added. Many of the city’s current and former elected officials also attended the memorial at the Convocation Center. “She was a beautiful woman. Her spirit was always positive,” said Diana E. Bajoie, former state senator and a current city council member. Mayor Mitch Landrieu also attended the memorial given the close ties between the Francis and Landrieu families.
Bajoie pointed out that Francis’s impact in the city was significant. One project that Francis was an advocate for was the New Orleans Adolescent Hospital. “She was the former president of the board and fought to save the hospital from closure in 2009 because of economic reasons. The hospital later reopened in 2013 because of her dedication,” Bajoie said. Francis’ 60-year marriage
to Dr. Norman C. Francis, now president-emeritus of Xavier, was widely admired throughout the city. “She was the wind beneath his wings,” Bajoie said. “Every man needs someone that will have his back and support him, and she was Xavier’s first lady for 47 years.” “This is a great loss to Xavier but her memory will live on,” Bajoie added.
Dr. Norman C. Francis and Blanche Francis on their wedding day. Dr. Norman C. Francis and Blanche Francis were married 60 years.
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Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
Arts & Entertainment Students can join in on the spooktacular fun! by Natese Dockery Staff Writer The Krewe of Boo’s “spooktacular” Halloween parade is Oct. 24, 2015, and it offers the perfect opportunity for students to get into costume for a total New Orleans
experience. This parade features floats, walking krewes, bands and throws. It begins about 6:30 p.m. in The Marigny at Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street. It rolls down Decatur Street to Canal, and then winds down Tchoupitoulas and ends at Mardi Gras World.
There’s a free concert on Fulton Street from 2-7 p.m., including performances by Amanda Shaw, Rockin’ Dopsie Jr., and other bands. Tickets to an after-parade “Monster Bash” are $30, and krewe director Brian Kern said there will be special appearances from many musicians,
including Zigaboo Modeliste of The Meters, Ivan Neville of Dumpstaphunk, June Yamagishi of Papa Grows Funk and more. Xavier sophomore Kiarra Hill will attend the festivities. “I’m going because I’m excited to see what New Orleans is like during Halloween.” Junior Tina Coupet on the
other hand is excited to show off her costume at the parade. “I’m going to be Jasmine from Aladdin this year! I saw Kim Kardashian wear the costume and I wanted something similar,” Coupet said. Complete Krewe of Boo information, parade route map and tickets are online at www. KreweofBoo.com.
Scared to Death at The Mortuary On Canal Street sits a 100-year-old mortuary that satisfies the modern taste of a haunted house. The Mortuary, which is themed after the seven deadly sins, admits guest just after sun down. Inside the building, the rooms are hardly lit, and, in some cases, nearly pitch black. There are several unpredictable twist and turns, with rooms filled with life-like corpses, as well as actors portraying the undead, pigmen and other scary beings. While the actors do not touch the participants, it does not prevent them from teasing your senses with unsolicited screams and sudden appearances. While the erratic scares may seem endless, the journey through the mortuary roughly takes thirty minutes.
Undead woman spooks guest.
The Mortuary’s life-like corpses and bodies were mechanically operated.
Pigmen scares guest with axe. The Mortuary exhibited seven deadly sins.
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XU Students Become One Among A Million
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by Cozette Boakye Contributing Writer
can proudly say that although my decision to attend the Million Man March in Washington D.C. on Oct. 10, 2015, was very rash, it was definitely one of the best decisions I have ever made. We began as a small interest group, organized by Ashley Gragg and Ahmed Arasah, but eventually, many other Xavierites began to join the movement. Originally, my reasoning behind going to the march was to be a part of something lifechanging, but it became much deeper than that after attending. The march put all of the issues and injustices in the world into perspective for me. We arrived on Howard University’s campus early Saturday morning, and the vibe was just amazing. Instantly, we could all tell that everyone was ready to express their feelings and emotions about all of
the oppression, violence, and unjustness that currently exist in our world. Along with Howard and many other schools, we marched from the campus down to the National Mall where Minister Farrakhan would be giving his speech. Black pride filled Washington, D.C. We heard speeches from the families of Michael Brown,
Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, and many others. Hearing everyone express their feelings on the social issues occurring just inspired me to begin speaking out and advocating for the injustices that even happen in New Orleans. The march made me realize that we cannot just wait around for the world to change; we have to be that change. L-R: Dera Mezue, Peyton Ware, Wayne Matthews, Imagine Moore, Idrees Ahmad.
Group of XU students attending the Million Man March in Washington D.C.
Marchers demand end to police brutality.
Uber, Evolving the Way the World Moves
U
by Jasmine Renard Staff Writer
ber, the consumerdriven taxi-like service, has caught on among college students in the city of New Orleans because of its technology-friendly user platform. According to Uber. com the company was founded in 2009. Uber Technologies Inc. allows consumers with smart phones to send a ride request through its free app. The service, which boasts over 8 million users across the nation, provides users features like exact arrival time for the driver and a map to locate your driver. But the trend is not without local controversy across the country and the New Orleans metropolitan area. Jefferson Parish officials have begun to push back on Uber drivers because drivers lack a certificate of Public Necessity and a designated driving permit that’s issued by the parish, according to Jefferson Parish Attorney Office. Jefferson Parish officials are trying to come up with a way to shut down the app from being used in the parish. Officials said in an Oct. 7 parish council meeting that
they are trying to get the courts to prohibit Uber drivers from operating throughout the parish because of safety concerns. New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, on the other hand, said he welcomes the service in the city. Landrieu said in a press release last fall that he feels Uber is good for the city’s residents and visitors because “their technology model is superior,” a feature particularly useful for the city’s tourism economy. Riders say compared to old fashioned taxi services, Uber offers more convenience and fast arrival times, clear pricing, options like UberX, UberXL, and two luxury options UberBLACK and UberSUV. The various Uber levels allow users the option to ride in luxury vehicles, and seats up to six riders at different price points. “I kind of imagined it to be more of a taxi ride, but the vehicle was very clean,” said Tayler Foe, a senior pharmacy major and New Orleans native. “I loved that my driver provided a charger that was compatible for my phone. Leon was very friendly, and made my first Uber ride comfortable. I’ll definitely be using it again,” Foe said. Students also say that the
drivers go out of their way to personalize the experience for riders. “I liked my driver because he was really open to the type of music my friends and I wanted to listen to,” said Ernest Lumpkins, a senior business-accounting major and New Orleans native. “He was very funny and engaged in conversation with us. He was a retired construction worker, and he decided to work for Uber just for the heck of it. I would definitely recommend Uber, it’s an experience you won’t forget.” The service has not been without some safety concerns. There have been several occasions where riders have been attacked or assaulted globally. “I wouldn’t say that Uber is totally safe, but I do feel like cabs are safer, because of the vetting cab drivers typically go through,” said Assistant Chief Albert Cornish of Xavier University Campus Police department. “There are always cons of riding any form of public transportation.” Cornish added that students should be just as diligent with the service as they would with any public transportation. “Students should do their own research on the company
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beforehand, and keep in mind that it is not regulated unlike taxi cab services,” Cornish said. “You really don’t know who you’re getting in the car with. Uber is fairly new to the city and I am not aware of any incidents thus far.” Uber is also attractive because it serves as a form of employment, particularly for students looking for part-time jobs. According to Uber.com, you must pass a background check; a Department of Motor Vehicle check; and own a licensed and registered vehicle. Those are few requirements needed to use the service as a
source of income. On average, Uber drivers earn as high as $1200 a week. “I am a full time Uber driver for the time being and the highest I have earned so far in a day is $454.60,” said Leon Kacy, who has been employed by Uber since August 2015. “I enjoy meeting new people and being able to assist them.” Kacy said his biggest challenge so far was having to pick up and drop off a blind woman. “She had a service dog to assist her, but just imagine if she had a less concerned driver, things could have ended badly,” Kacy said.
XU Student Nyha Hagan taking an Uber to go off campus and enjoy the city of New Orleans
Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
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UNCF Program Provides Valuable Contacts, Experiences
by Rasaan T. Hollis Senior Finance Major New Orleans is still the farthest I’ve been away from home geographically, but this past summer certainly expanded my horizons. I was accepted into the Gateway to Leadership (GTL) program through the UNCF. The GTL program provides students an internship with a company in the field of finance. In addition to the internship, we were provided career coaches, finance study assignments for preparation, and a conference with multiple workshops. The first step to my journey was to the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., for a conference. The president of the UNCF and countless corporate
leaders either spoke or provided workshops. While there, I got to meet my career coach and other high-achieving students from HBCUs in different programs. From the conference, I flew straight to Chicago. I worked as a research analyst in the energy industry. I used a Bloomberg terminal and Excel to perform large data analysis, presenting my findings weekly to the Portfolio Manager. The third step in my journey was to Hartford, Conn., where the parent company’s headquarters is located. I and two other interns presented to the CEO and other members of upper management about how to best incorporate ETF’s into their mutual fund business model. The final step in my journey was to New York City to convene with the other GTL interns. We presented at Voya Financial on an investment advisory case. The summer was full of traveling and great experiences. To other students, I offer this advice: When you’re up late working on homework, remember there is no limit on how far it can take you.
Send Your Submissions and Advertisements to the Xavier Herald Email: herald@xula.edu Phone: 504. 520. 7474
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Oct. 20, 2015 - Nov. 10, 2015
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Xavier Gold Rush, Gold Nuggets Season Preview Rush can boast about something new and exciting that will add to their team, and make this year even more successful: the return of veteran player Lucas MartinJulien and the new recruits. “Lucas is, first of all, an unbelievable player, and also an unbelievable leader. We welcome his leadership this year,” said Jackson. “Him coming back will be great for us.” The recruits are as follows: Leland Alexander; Elex Carter; Seth Jackson; Kevin Murph; and Chris Ward. According to Jackson, Alexander and Murph have a lot to bring to the team such as perimeter shooting and ballhandling. Jackson also cited their height as an asset, which he hopes will disrupt their opponents. Carter and Ward are “hardnosed,” tough, and bouncy players; whereas, Seth brings experience, athleticism, and toughness from his previous basketball team, the Baton Rouge Community College Bears, that will give the Gold Rush the depth they need at the guard position, said Jackson. Returning this year are
seniors RJ Daniels, Charles Savoy, Gary Smith, Jarvis Thibodeaux, and Morris Wright; junior Wesley Pluvioise-Philips; and sophomore Lucas MartinJulien. New to the team is Innocent Kukulu. This season will be a season of change, and not just with the Gold Rush team. The shot clock will be decreased from 35 seconds to 30 seconds, and the referees will be calling more hand checks; something the Rush will have to get adjusted to. “Most people think it’s about
five in a defensive stand-point and hold teams under 50 points,” said Browder. To increase their defensive Gold Nuggets capabilities and ensure they he Gold Nuggets hold opponents under 50 finished their 2014points, the Nuggets have four 2015 season 18-15 with new freshman: Mikayla Bates one less senior. This from University High; Jordan season, the Nuggets have six Lawrence, a walk-on from Red seniors, five new players, and a Oak; Kiera Robinson from will to make this season special. Mansfield Summit; and Joi One way the Nuggets are Simmons from North Forest. making this season special is by “We brought in a great focusing on defense. freshman class,” said Browder. “We are trying to become Bates is a point guard/ a better defensive team. In the two-guard that won backpast, we would be ranked top ten to-back state championships defensively in the NAIA, and at University High that can recently we’ve dropped,” said really help the Nuggets on the the Nugget’s head coach, Bo defensive end. Lawrence is a Browder. “defensive specialist” that can Browder believes the really defend on the perimeter. Nuggets have plunged from Robinson is a forward/post the top 10 in defense to the top player that can run the four, 25—a ranking the Nuggets are and play outstanding defense. not excited about it. They want to Simmons is a 5’9 guard that be ranked top five defensively. can “really play,” according to In the National Association Browder. of Intercollegiate Athletics, the The Nuggets are also taking Nuggets rank 44 in blocks per other measures to ensure they game; 36 in defensive rebounds continue their mission and per game; 13 in total steals; and legacy of winning. One way is 23 in scoring defense per game. by bringing former players in as Their opponents score an average volunteer assistant coaches. This of 60.79 points. has helped the current players get “We like to be ranked top more weight room time, get more
player development time, and it has even helped the players get a better understanding of what the Xavier tradition is about. Another part of making this season special will be competing against Dillard and Southern University of New Orleans, two teams in the Nuggets’s conference that give them the “most problems,” according to Browder. The Nuggets are already off to a good start—they have been picked first to win the GCAC tournament for the sixth consecutive season, and senior Whitney Gathright was picked to
by Kaelin Maloid Sports Writer
Gold Rush
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hen the Gold Rush take the court, their success is not measured by wins or losses, but the “process,” according to head coach, Dannton Jackson. “Success is where we started and where we end up,” said Jackson. A perfectly-scripted practice led the Gold Rush to runnerup in the Gulf Coast Atlantic Conference, a trip to the NAIA tournament, and a 24-10 overall record in the 2014-15 season. A season that was more successful than the previous years, said Jackson. If hustle had a sound, it would sound like a Gold Rush practice. The cacophony of basketball shoes on the court, the ball swishing through the net, and a crescendo of synchronized voices blend together to make something beautiful—their growth. Besides practice, the Gold by Kaelin Maloid Sports Writer
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basketball, winning games, winning championships, but it’s really about developing young people,” said Jackson. To develop his players, Jackson and team participate in community service. To date, the Gold Rush have visited the courthouse to see Calvin Johnson; attended XUPD’s awareness event, “Night Against Crime,” at the Gert Town Community Center; and visited local schools to encourage the students—but it doesn’t stop there.
“In our storage, we have about two pallets of toys ready to go to Children’s Hospital. One group is dropping off some toys so we can play with it and show kids how to play with it before Christmas,” said Jackson. The Gold Rush season kicks off Oct. 29 in the Convocation Center at 7 p.m. against Webber International. The upcoming home games are Oct. 30 at 6 p.m.; Nov. 7 at 4 p.m.; and Nov. 9 at 7 p.m.
Back Row: Charles Savoy, Wesley Pluvoise-Philip, Jarvis Thibodeaux, Elex Carter, Chris Ward, Front Row: Seth Jackson, Leland Alexander, Lucas Martin-Julien, Morris Wright, Gary Smith, Innocent Kukulu, RJ Daniels and Kevin Murph. the five member all-GCAC team. Donyeah Mayfield received an honorable mention. However, while this is an honor, neither the Nuggets nor Gathright are really focused on the selection. “Seniors don’t really get caught up with individual awards,” said Browder. “They are more concerned with how they are going to end their career. We’ll worry about those awards at the end of this year.” The rest of the Nuggets 2015-16 roster includes: seniors Gathright; Emoni Harvey; Trana Hopkins; Mayfield; Person-
Hampton; and Alesha Smith; juniors Bianca Brown; Amani Davis; Aaliyah Dunbar; Kelsey Joseph; and Kelsee Singleton; and sophomores Jasmine Bush and Ireyon Keith. The Nuggets kick off their season at home on Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. vs LeMoyne-Owen. When coming to the game, fans should expect “a lot of energy and passion,” said Harvey. The Nuggets are used to winning, and this season won’t be any different.
Roster: Kelsey Joseph, Aaliyah Dunbar, Mikayla Bates, Alesha Smith, Amara Person-Hampton, Trana Hopkins, Emoni Harvey, Joi Simmons, Jordan Lawrence, Ireyon Keith, Kiera Robinson, Whitney Gathright, Amani Davis, Kelsee Singleton, Donyeah Mayfield, Bianca Brown, Jasmine Bush. Photos by Irving Johnson III.
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Founder’s Day c onvocat io n
Will Shuler (Biology), Bianca Moore (Political Science), Eric Craig (Political Science). Class ‘16 members debuted Founder’s Day, Oct. 6, 2015.
Ivory Bibbins (Psychology), Amber Turnipseed (Psychology), Whitney Gathright (Business), and Emoni Harvey (Mass Communication).
Pharm Ds Brittany Poirrier, Pham Thuy Le , Marlene Dao and Cindy Nguyen.
XU PINK DAY
UNCF WALK
L-R: Erica Olivier, Ariyan Frazier, Iesha Colla, Telicia Gayden and Chandler Schexnayder represent SNPhA on the yard on Oct. 9, 2015.
L-R: Ariysse Rodney, Rachel Hitchens, Olivia Griswold, Alexis Holder and Tamia Luster before they start their walk on Oct. 10, 2015.
PHOTOS BY: Luis Marquez & Natese Dockery xulaherald.com
S N A P S
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