The Optimist Print Edition 08.27.18 (Volume CVIII, Issue I) by ACU Optimist

@acuoptimist The Optimist @acuoptimist

OPTIMIST

ALLEN WARD Former Murray State AD takes over as new athletics director

A student publication of Abilene Christian University since 1912

Volume CVIII, Issue I

Monday August 28, 2017

Campus News A new Vice President of Student Life brings spiritual, physical and relational goals to campus, and new electronic scooters take over ACU and surrounding areas......................................Page 1-2

Opinion

Sports This summer brought change to Athletics including a new head baseball coach, a new athletics director , a previously-MLB baseball scout turned assistant coach...................Page 7-8

T W R

Meet the Editorial Board including who we are, our passions and our advice to incoming students, and read tweets about Wildcat Week and other Abilene news...............................Page 6

Photo by LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jesse McCartney performed Saturday night at Abilene City Limits to close out Wildcat Week. Armors, a California-based band opened for McCartney on the front lawn of campus. CAMPUS NEWS

McDowell joins Student Life LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Former Lipscomb senior vice president for student life Scott McDowell has taken over as the new vice president of student life, succeeding Dr. Chris Riley, assistant provost for institutional research and SACSCOC liaison. McDowell served at Lipscomb for 20 years after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Bible from Freed-Hardeman University, a master’s in religion from Lipscomb and a doctorate in higher education leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

Kevin Campbell, senior vice president of operations, said McDowell the university formed a search committee including Bart Herridge, Jill Fortson, Liz Brown, Joel Swedlund, Dina Counts, Rachel Slaymaker and himself. The search committee posted a job opening and advertised to attract people to the position. There were a few applicants alongside recommendations from faculty and staff at the university.

Campbell said McDowell stood out from other applicants because of his passion, deep commitment to spiritual formation and his background at Lipscomb, which is culturally similar to ACU and also is affiliated with Churches of Christ. “He knows the world of student life inside and out,” Campbell said. “We knew it would not be a big adjustment for him from a cultural perspective. They’ve done a really good job balancing the needs of students with the desires for the institution.” McDowell said his re-

lationship with President Phil Schubert started when Schubert was the CFO of the university and asked questions pertaining to block tuition. “I’ve been heavily influenced by some key mentors, and I would say its all about the relationships,” McDowell said. “Having genuine, deep relationships with students and being able to speak into their lives in formative years, its really magnificent. Being in the student life area, you get to be around the best students in the whole university because Continued on Page 2

CAMPUS NEWS

Bird scooters land with SGA contract ALYSSA HIGH STAFF REPORTER

As scooters zoom around campus people find themselves reaching their meetings, classes, and dorms much faster than before and it is all because of the Birds. Birds are dockless scooters that you can pick up and leave anywhere, anytime except Jacob’s Dream or inside buildings. Ideally, Birds should be left near bike racks or alongside a building away from entryways and walkways.

The idea to bring Birds to the ACU community came from Ty Kelley, senior and student executive president of the Student Government Association when he attended a conference in Washington D.C. this summer alongside other executives and vice presidents. While there, the presidents got into a discussion about the popular D.C. transportation: Birds. The discussion inspired Kelley to use these scooters to service the ACU students. Continued on Page 2

CAMPUS NEWS

Engineering lab takes NEXT step in development ALLAYNA FORD MANAGING EDITOR

The Department of Engineering and Physics launched its Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Lab, known as the NEXT Lab, began over the summer, and is now moving into phase two of the project. The lab will advance research into Liquid Fueled Salt Reactors and educate students on nuclear power. Dr. Rusty Towell, professor of physics and director of the NEXT Lab, said the lab goes beyond research and allows students to participate in a real project focused on improving living standards on a global scale through the creation of a clean energy source,

water purification and cancer-fighting isotopes. “Students get a chance to take what they learn in a classroom and apply it to a real problem, and they are not just learning how to demonstrate something people have discovered hundreds of years ago,” Towell said. “We are saying, ‘These are new problems that people haven’t solved, but help us solve them.’” Phase two of the project is comprised of testing various salts and figuring out how to build a prototype loop that can heat the salts, measure pressure and withstand corrosion. Over the summer, physics graduate Reuben Byrd participated in building a barometer to measure the

pressure inside of the loop. “It was a really great opportunity to work closely with true experts in the field,” Byrd said. “NEXT is really cool, because it’s on campus and is more of a collaborative environment than some of the other labs I’ve worked in.” The program was not limited to only students from the Department of Engineering and Physics. Students majoring in graphic design and computer science designed the NEXT Lab website and logo. Additionally, accounting students played a role in budgeting the money donated to the program. “In any research, it’s never just engineers or just physicists; it’s always

a collaboration. And getting to work with a small group that also has that is really cool,” Byrd said. “The chemistry people are working out what salt mixtures we need to have different detective points and getting what temperatures we need and the viscosity – lots of things that I wouldn’t know about – but it was really cool to see their work and to be somewhat involved in it.” The department this month landed $300,000 in support from the Development Corporation of Abilene, a city-funded group. The DCOA was formed to enhance economic development in the city of Abilene and donated to the project because

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of the high value research jobs that will be created from the project and to show support for the positive global impact the molten salt reactors can have, Towell said. More than $4

million has been donated to the lab. “It’s amazing that all of these people see the value of this long-range vision of blessing the world,” Towell said.

Photo by ALLAYNA FORD | MANAGING EDITOR Part of the NEXT Lab in Bennett Gymnasium, run by Dr. Rusty Towell

Page 2 | Campus News Events

Monday 08/27 1. First day of classes 2. Opening chapel Thursday 08/30 1. Why preaching matters seminar Friday 08/31 1. Last day to drop classes with full refund

Monday, August 27, 2018 CAMPUS NEWS

Chartwells wraps up Campus Center summer renovations EVAN RODRIGUEZ OPINIONS EDITOR

Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services is nearing the completion of its renovations to the McGlothlin Campus Center

Saturday 09/01 1. Football game @ Baylor Monday 09/03 1. Labory Day 2. SGA Week Wednesday 09/05 1. SGA Week 2. Athletics Annual Welcome Back

days until fall break

Tu Taco is opening the campus center where Einstens used to be. after winning the bid to replace Aramark as the provider of all on-campus dining. The changes include the addition of a new food vendor. Students will now

have access to Tu Taco, a street taco vendor where Einstein’s Bagel Co. formerly was located. Students will have the opportunity to evaluate Tu Taco throughout the semester, which will allow Chartwells to rotate in a new restaurant during semester breaks if students show significant interest in a different restaurant. “Tu Taco is a part of a broader concept known as Student Choice,” said Kevin Campbell, Senior Vice President for Operations. “So we’re working with SGA to create a student dining committee.” Following these changes, Einstein Bros. will remain on campus with access available to students through The Bean beginning on Tuesday. Students with a meal plan can enjoy Einstein Bros. at no additional cost, while Students without a meal plan will be able to pay and access Einstein Bros. through the mailroom entrance to The Bean.

The prepackaged to-go meals that previously were located at the entrance of The Bean have been moved to the Hilton Food Court to consolidate space and adjust foot traffic patterns. Chartwells has also added a to-go sushi cart near the checkout space of the Hilton Food Court. One of the main requirements the university laid out for potential food service providers included

the hiring of a nutritionist to be accessible to the student body. Chartwells hired Lindsey Arthers to advise student-athletes on nutrition. Arthers’ office is located in the Student Life offices in the basement of the Campus Center. Students may soon be able to spend campus cash at off-campus locations. Responses to an SGA survey conducted by former SGA executive president

The new Einstein Bros. near the post office in the campus center.

Danny Burke indicated several restaurants where students would like to be able to spend campus

“

It is absolutely fair and accurate to say ACU is pursuing conversations with several local restaurants to enable students to be able to use campus cash off campus ”

KEVIN CAMPBELL SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

cash, and the university reached out to several of them. “It is absolutely fair and accurate to say ACU is pursuing conversations with several local restaurants to enable students to be able to use campus cash off campus,” Campbell said. Campbell said he is optimistic about these conversations, with more information to come throughout the fall semester.

ABILENE NEWS

JC’s Lighthouse shines into Abilene downtown culture LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

JC’s Lighthouse Chocolates and Food Park, a hangout that serves chocolates, snow cones, Italian creme sodas and more, recently opened for business in downtown Abilene. The new business began with two sisters, Claudia Anderson and Jennifer Moore, who had a dream of opening a snow cone stand. The sisters had the idea to build a business together but nowhere to set up shop. But when a spot downtown came up for sale, Jennifer Moore said she was inspired. “I remember thinking, ‘That would be a really good spot for whatever it is we

come up with,’” Moore said. “But I knew I was going to have to sell a lot of snow

cones to pay rent.” The dream continued

to develop, with the sisters adding rare flavors of Italian creme sodas and food

trucks. JC’s Lighthouse has hosted Crooked Creek

Meats, The Seasoned Skillet, Caitie Pies, Black Cat’s Blues and BBQ. Anderson hopes to gain more partnerships with local food trucks. “We are talking to other food trucks like Dad’s Ice Cream, The London Express, 1881 and Big Country Burgers and More,” Anderson said. “Texas Doughboys wants to work with us but in a different way, where their products would be sold in our store.” The grand opening of the food truck park was Friday, but the sisters already are planning for the future of the company. Moore and Henderson expect to turn the bays into seating areas that would keep customers out of the cold, heat, or rain.

They also expect to expand their hours into the lunchtime business. “We are hoping it is going to grow,” Moore said.

“

We have the capability and outlets for four food trucks plugged in. ” JENNIFER MOORE JC’S LIGHTHOUSE CO-OWNER

“We have the capability and outlets for four food trucks plugged in. So that would be the goal, to at least have four. And you never know, it could get bigger than that. Community support has been really good so far.” JC’s Lighthouse also gives 10 percent of all profit to

ministry work in Cambodia. Moore established this contribution after her time volunteering on a short term mission trip with an old friend and co-worker who eventually decided to move her family to Cambodia to continue serving. “She’s been there about seven years,” Moore said. “So I want to be able to support her and I thought this would be a great way to do that. Everything that we sell, we’ll give a portion to Cambodia. In the seven years they’ve been there, they have built 25 schools and they do church planting. They educate the church planters, so they’ve actually educated around 144 of the church planters.”

WorldWide Witness looks to expand international reach ALLISON HARRELL STAFF REPORTER

More than 50 students were sent out across six continents to participate in WorldWide Witness this past summer, continuing to expand the program’s influence in the world. WorldWide Witness is an internship program that gives students an opportunity to take the skills they learn in the classrooms of ACU and apply them to

places in need, ultimately impacting various parts of the world for the mission of Christ. Larry Henderson, head coordinator for WorldWide Witness, was excited to share about the mission trips that took place during the summer of 2018. “I’ve heard some great stories – stories of challenges that were met, evacuation from floods, great opportunities to work with young kids in schools, or-

Change to come in office of student life

phanages and churches,” Henderson said. Students traveled all over the globe, participating in engineering projects, sports ministries and campus ministries. Austin Parsons, senior biochemistry major from Abilene, worked in Honduras on a medical project. Garrett Rhoden, a recent graduate of engineering from Abilene, worked on an engineering project for a water distribution center

in Latin America. Lauren Wertheim, sophomore global studies major from Abilene, was in South Africa, working with a sports ministry. WorldWide Witness interns raise their own money to fund their missions but are given advice and resources from program directors and facilitators. “This year, well before the end of school, the trips were fully funded,” Henderson said. “Every-

body had raised all of their money. In fact, some people even raised more than they needed and ended up sharing with those that still needed fundraising, so that, overall, everyone met their goal.” The program continues to make large strides toward growth and opportunity. In the near future, WorldWide Witness expects to open the door to more diverse areas of ministry for the various

Scooters transform transportation through Abilene

Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 1 the student leaders bubble to the top.” McDowell said he wants to focus on spiritual formation, and how he can move the needle, like a compass, in students’ lives. Alhough Chapel is an important part of what makes ACU “religious,” McDowell said the most important part of Christianity at the university is the relationships. “I’m not trying to do anything rash, I’m trying to be thoughtful and deliberate, and trying to do the things that matter the most,” McDowell said. “We are going to treat people differently, recognize the image of God over every single person. That’s what gives the community its flavor. I want students to discover who God made them to be.” The primary responsibilities include leading the Office of Student Life, residence life, spiritual formation, Title IX, student health and wellness, the Cabinet and Student Government Association.

Because the residence halls are about to go into a time of renovation, Campbell said they are the most significant capital need right now. In additional to physical renovations, McDowell said updating and revisiting the LGBTQ policy related to residence halls is one of his goals throughout the next year. McDowell is active in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and said this type of policy is always dominant in conversation. “I think we can do better,” McDowell said. “The spiritual well-being and the formation of the students is much more critical than the facility. The LGBTQ concern is large in the landscape of all higher education. I want to treat people well and love people well, and support all of our students.” McDowell officially started on Aug. 1 and continued the search for a university chaplain.

departments on campus. Henderson is in contact with former interns and correspondents in Cambodia and Japan, who are requesting interns to teach in schools and assist in new projects. “There are some innovative things developing,” Henderson said. “We are trying to place students in areas where they will be using what they are studying in the ministries that they are doing.”

Designated Bird parking outside of the Campus Center “Immediately I thought about our international students who don’t have a car. This would be perfect for them to make a trip to United or to Walmart, and especially just students who are running late to class... so it’s kind of the solution to that last mile transportation problem that exists not only in big cities but in Abilene.”

The process began with discussions involving the administration, ACUPD, ACU Facilities, Bird Representatives, and Operations. Open communication between all parties ensured that everyone would be comfortable with the installation of the Bird scooters. The next step was to meet with the assigned Bird Rep-

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resentative to go over logistics, such as where the Nests would be placed, how many Birds were needed and where the Birds were needed most. The last step before implementation was to go through the legal paperwork with ACU administration and Bird Representatives to ensure that installing the scooters was both a cost-effective and advantageous investment.

Bird took on the entire cost to bring all 75 birds to campus. They even pay a dollar a day to the Student Government Association for each bird on campus. That money is then put into a Student Government Association fund set to improve the roads and sidewalks for the Bird community. Students at ACU can also be hired for $5-20 to charge a Bird depending on how low the battery of the Bird is and how far it is from you. The student would go to the app and pick a Bird to charge, take it home, charge it and then bring it back the next morning. For anyone interested in riding these convenient transportation devices, download the Bird app and type in code FREERIDE to get a free ride up to five dollars to try it out. After you use the free code, rides will be one dollar to unlock and fifteen cents per minute to ride.

Monday, August 27, 2018

Lifestyle & People|Page 3

Abilene Brews It Monks Coffee Shop wins fan favorite TESSA KENNEDY STAFF REPORTER

The Optimist Twitter ran three polls for students to choose which coffee shop was the best overall. Over 130 people voted on each.

Common Grounds: Freshmen get taste from local coffee shops BRYCE LURKENS STAFF REPORTER Incoming freshmen were introduced to multiple local coffee destinations at a Wildcat Week event Thursday night called Abilene Grounds. Organized by Austin Browning, senior accounting and ﬁnance major from Abilene, the event featured brewed beverages from Monks, Beltway and Maslow Coffee Company, which will be located in the former location of Bitsy’s Flower Shop. “We got in contact with the three local shops,” said Browning. “We knew we really wanted to have Monks and Beltway here since they’re two of the most popular sites for students. Then with Maslow opening across the street, we ﬁgured that would also be a really big coffee hub for students as well.” The event took place in the Halbert-Walling Research Center. Browning said that organizers expected at least 100 students to show up – but between

200 to 300 students arrived throughout the night. Students sampled complimentary coffee from each shop, while student-musicians Elyse Goodnight, Wade Byington and Manny Lundy performed. “Austin reached out to me and asked if I would help participate in the Abilene Grounds coffee experience,” said Goodnight, sophomore elementary education major. “I said I would love to be a part of the event. I had a blast picking the set of songs for the night.” Garrick Palmer, owner of Maslow’s Coffee Company, said the shop’s opening was an idea they have been working on for 21 years. “We were invited to participate in the Abilene Grounds event, so we jumped at the opportunity,” said Palmer. “We are here to support the university with our hearts, minds and souls. We are just honored to be a part of Wildcat Week.” The grand opening of Maslow’s Coffee Company will be around the end of September.

When asked to describe Monks Coffee Shop in just three words, owner Allison Carroll sat across the table with a bewildered, joyful, endearing expression, trying hard to pinpoint the correct adjectives to encapsulate her beloved space. “When I talk about Monks, it’s the community angle that I always love, but the word ‘community’ alone does not describe Monks,” Carroll said. “I’ve never actually been able to find the word to describe how we build and create community. I’ve never been able to find a single word good enough for that concept. I’m sure it exists.” When describing Monks, Carroll consistently returns to the concept of community, because community seems to be the very heart of the shop. “I have been really blessed by the amazing people here,” Carroll said. “People who love Abilene, love Monks, love the community that we create.” Monks Coffee Shop was founded in August of 2006 by Jerry Hendricks. The space on Cypress Street, that is known for being a snug, zany, coffee-filled hub with cozy couches and eclectic, tiger-print carpet, was once used for Hendricks’ selfrun summer camp. Over time, Hendricks watched as people he knew stopped by to sit around the space and indulge in coffee and conversation. He eventually decided the spot would be ideal for a coffee shop. Nine years after Hendricks opened Monks’ doors, he sold the shop to Carroll, who has owned the shop for three years. “I have a really long history in coffee and have worked at other shops in Abilene,” Carroll said. “It was during that time that I fell in love with coffee and the community created around coffee.” Carroll said a huge aspect of what makes Monks unique is the way the customers and staff work together to embrace its natural quirkiness. “Definitely there are things we want to improve and make a lot better, but I think we’ve gotten good at embracing those unique obstacles,” Carroll said. “People who have been with us

for a while, our regular customers who have been coming for years, they know that those interesting quirks and troubles have become a part of the story of Monks.” Carroll looked down at the ground and smiled nostalgically. “It’s things like, you know, stains on the carpet that someone could come in and say, ‘Oh, I remember when that happened.’ Those things tend to kind of work themselves into the story of people’s time

memories that they can come back to. We want to be the place for people who are new to Abilene and people who have been in Abilene their whole lives. That has been incredibly rewarding to see happen, to see this place that I love become a place that other people in Abilene love. I’m proud of the place that we’ve created, and I’m incredibly proud of my staff.” Carroll couldn’t contain her smile as she talked about her

Students enjoy socializing, studying and drinking coffee at Monks. The shop is located on Cypress Street downtown, and open every day of the week. at Monks. Our customers are the best, because they can see the progress and be proud of the progress but also still appreciate the weird quirkiness. They have the ability to find those things charming and endearing because they remind them of their time here.” From the moment Monks opened its doors, the coffee shop has functioned as a hotspot for the developing of relationships and the birth of creativity and innovation. Carroll said the number of customers who have met their spouses at Monks cannot be counted on one hand. Monks has been a frequent location for first dates, reunions, introductions and brainstorming sessions. Carroll remembers when Pappy Slokum, a local brewery, was starting up, its founders would frequently come to Monks, grab coffee and bounce ideas for their now successful business off of one another. “We want the whole spectrum,” Carroll said. “We want to be a place that fosters community and creativity. We want to be a place where people can be inspired and make connections. We want to be a place where people can meet new people for the first time, where they can reconnect with old friends, where they can create

“

We want to be a place that fosters community and creativity. We want to be a place where people can be inspired and make connections.” ALLISON CARROLL MONKS OWNER

employees, delving into the glory of the personal relationships that have been cultivated in the conﬁnes of the space. “We have amazing people who come to work for us. My people. I feel like I can never brag on them enough,” Carroll said. “They come in, they love the space, they work hard to make it better and to create a great experience for our customers; they help each other out. They’re a great team. It sounds cliché, but we end up becoming a little family. They make being a business owner easy. Well, not easy. It’s never easy. But they make it a lot easier.” She described Monks’ customers as “the best customers in town,” “Like, period, full stop. We have the best customers. Having the best customers is something that is hard to articulate, but it’s something I ﬁnd myself telling every new hire that we get. The people who come in here are just wonderful. They’re kind, they’re open,

FUN FACTS: Most popular drinks: tuxedo mocha and chai Most unique drink: Honey lavender latte During pumpkin spice season, Monks makes its own pumpkin sauce from scratch using real pumpkin. they’re loving.” Carroll said she learnedabout the shop’s loyal customer base her first day as owner. That day, she sent a finicky espresso machine to a repair shop in Austin and relied on a backup. During her first shift as the new owner, a regular customer approached Carroll and expressed his love of Monks, coffee and Abilene. He noticed the machine she was using and offered his personal espresso machine and phone number if she ever needed anything. Carroll said they are now good friends and business partners. “I have stories like that throughout all of my time here,” Carroll said. “People who love us, love Monks and want to help out however they can. It’s hard to articulate, because it permeates the space in tiny ways and big ways. Everywhere we look, we can see the best people.” Carroll said she hopes to see the coffee culture throughout Abilene grow more prominent. She said she hopes the community will eventually be able to host more coffee-related events, like coffee cuppings, coffee seminar classes and even a second annual latte art throwdown, which is a competition that tests the artistic and creative skill sets of local baristas. Carroll paused her train of thought and glanced wistfully around her shop, still trying, with evident passion, to find the three perfect descriptors for Monks. “I feel like it’s not right to say something like ‘best in town,’” Carroll said. “The expression that keeps rolling around in my mind is community through coffee, but I don’t know. I’m thinking connective, but I feel like there’s a better word for all of it than that. Maybe friendly, quirky, cozy. But that’s just not enough. It’s not just friendly. It’s genuine, it’s warm, it’s fun. It’s not something words can capture. but it’s definitely quirky; that one stays on the table.”

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Page 4 | Wildcat Week Gallery

Monday, August 27, 2018

Wildcat Week Gallery | Page 5

Welcome Home, Wildcats

BREVEN CAMPBELL STAFF REPORTER

Macy Goodenough, a junior English major from Abilene, and Garrison Powell, a senior biology major from Hallettsville, help carry personal items for incoming students.

Since move-in day on Tuesday, incoming students hit the ground running with Wildcat Week. From Candlelight Devo to Slipn-Slide Kickball, Wildcat Week provided many ways to make the transition from home to college as smooth as possible. Caddie Coupe, the director of Wildcat Week said, “The purpose of Wildcat Week is to empower new Wildcats to call Abilene their home while equipping them with the opportunity for spiritual growth, academic success and social excellence.” Despite a wide range of events throughout the week, Coupe said her favorite part of the week was the Wildcat Week leaders. “Seeing them help other students with a big smile on their face is the greatest picture of Christ’s love to me during this week,” Coupe said. “They engage the students with so much school spirit, and it makes it all worth it.” With all the new events also taking place during Wildcat Week, Coupe said her favorite

new tradition is the class photo that is taken in the shape of ACU. “It’s a great memory for the students to have later on and the perfect photo-op,” Coupe said. One of the most popular events was the Abilene City Limits festival, featuring Jesse McCartney. Students were offered the opportunity for a meet and

“

The purpose of Wildcat Week is to empower new wildcats to call Abilene their home while equipping them with the opportunity for spiritual growth, academic success and social excellence” CADDIE COUPE DIRECTOR OF WILDCAT WEEK

greet for $40. Megan Fridge, junior marketing major from Sugarland, and student director said, “Before and during the concert, students were able to purchase food from local food trucks, participate in carnival attractions, and connect with the ACU community.” More than 900 new students moved in with the help of over 300 Wildcat Week leaders, who sacrificed their time to make Abilene feel like home to the new students.

Students attend the Block Party on Wednesday following a full day of events. The Paramount Theatre showcased “Black Panther” free to all students and leaders.

Incoming students cheer for their mentor group team during Wildcat Prowl, an event that teaches the basics of becoming a wildcat.

Students sing and dance along to tunes from the 2000s during the Y2K dance on Friday night.

Photos by NICHOLAS CROMWELL | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ALLAYNA FORD | MANAGING EDITOR Jesse McCartney performs to close out Wildcat Week. Armors, a California-based band, opened for him Saturday night.

Students play intramurals in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center throughout the week. The mentor group olympics on Thursday included indoor and outdoor sports.

Phoebe Voss, a sophomore graphic design/advertising and business management major from North Richland Hills, and Scotlyn Bonneau, a sophomore education major from Abilene, help incoming students move their belongings.

A student flexes during the 2000s dance on Friday night. Incoming students and Wildcat Week leaders danced until after midnight.

Page 4 | Wildcat Week Gallery

Monday, August 27, 2018

Wildcat Week Gallery | Page 5

Welcome Home, Wildcats

BREVEN CAMPBELL STAFF REPORTER

Macy Goodenough, a junior English major from Abilene, and Garrison Powell, a senior biology major from Hallettsville, help carry personal items for incoming students.

“

Students attend the Block Party on Wednesday following a full day of events. The Paramount Theatre showcased “Black Panther” free to all students and leaders.

Incoming students cheer for their mentor group team during Wildcat Prowl, an event that teaches the basics of becoming a wildcat.

Students sing and dance along to tunes from the 2000s during the Y2K dance on Friday night.

Students play intramurals in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center throughout the week. The mentor group olympics on Thursday included indoor and outdoor sports.

A student flexes during the 2000s dance on Friday night. Incoming students and Wildcat Week leaders danced until after midnight.

Monday, August 27, 2018

Opinion | Page 5

Meet your Editorial Board Lauren Franco Editor-in-Chief Convergence Journalism Fort Worth, Texas

Allayna Ford Managing Editor Convergence Journalism Allen, Texas

When I came to ACU, I was expecting to be involved in everything the way I was in high school. I wanted to be known on campus, and seem successful because I was an officer of everything. It was exhausting. Find your niche and grow there. You don’t have to be involved in everything to be good, and you don’t have to be known by everyone to make a difference.

Entering into my Freshman year, my biggest priority was to make friends, however; I found myself in surrounded by people who I did not get along with, and realized that the friendships were superficial and one-sided. My advice is that if you find yourself unhappy in a friendship, it is OK to stop being their “friend.” Cutting ties may seem harsh, but in the end it is truly for the best, and remember, college lasts anywhere from 3 to 4 years, so there is plenty of time to make lasting relationships.

Evan Rodriguez Opinions Editor Business Management Sugar Land, Texas

Rowdy Riggins Social Media Manager Advertising and Public Relations Abilene, Texas

Max Preston

Don’t take The Bean for granted. Be generous with your Bean Bucks. Get involved early and often, no matter if it’s within your area of expertise or not. Walk away from college with skills that don’t pertain to your major. Be a force for change during your time on campus. End your high school relationship.

As I have transitioned from a freshman to an upperclassman, I have learned how important it is to network and gain as much work experience that pertains to my career field as possible. Regardless of how young you think you are, apply for everything that you can and try to build a great resume.

Hannah Johnson Cartoonist Graphic Design Minneapolis, Minnesota

Laural Drain Video Director Multimedia Fort Worth, Texas

Nicholas Cromwell Chief Photographer Accounting and Finance Dallas, Texas

Don’t be a try-hard; no one is impressed by people who takes themselves too seriously. Get involved with what fits your interests and passions, not what you think will impress other people. Invest in selfcare and healthy friendships; toxic people/circumstances are not worth your time.

Explore Abilene as often as you can. When you first move to Abilene, especially if you’re from a big city, it might seem as if there is nothing to do. The more you go out and get to know this town you will realize what a unique and fun place it is to live. Hear live music and play putt putt at Playfair Park, go with friends to all the thrift shops, get coffee at the numerous coffee shops across town, and go out stargazing. Abilene has so much to offer, take advantage of it all.

Get involved in the community with your friends. There are so many things to involve yourself with both on and off campus! Whether you get involved with a church, a non-profit, a social club, or find an internship doing these things with your friends is one of the things you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Our 2018-2019 Editorial Board welcomes you to campus. Throughout the year, you will find columns and editorials written by us and various guests - Some you will agree with and some you will disagree with. Neverthless, we beleive it is important for you to be able to assign faces to names as you read us throughout the year. Additionally, we have included our own unique advice we would pass down to incoming freshmen.

Amber Chavez Video News Lead Multimedia Dripping Springs, Texas My advice comes in three parts: don’t be afraid to be persistent. If you see a job that you want, apply for it – and don’t let the employer forget about you. Go into that place and make your face known. Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class. There are probably five other students also wondering the same thing. And most of all, know your limits. If it’s midnight and you can’t retain any more information for that exam you have in the morning, go to sleep.

Sports Director Convergence Journalism Amarillo, Texas

Mckenna Strauch @mckennabrooke34 So was his the summer that everyone was supposed to go to Europe...?

Andrew Boone @andreboonedog

Because I think I missed the memo Joe Biden @JoeBiden John McCain was many things – a proud graduate of the Naval Academy, a Senate colleague, a political opponent. But, to me, more than anything, John was a friend. He will be missed dearly.

Madeline Dayton Columnist Global Studies and Business Management Katy, Texas

Madison Massey @ragingfloortile Heads up: I got a Italian slang book for 75¢ so now I’m only expressing my frustrations via Italian this semester

Life itself is always more important than college. Take the time to prioritize your life during your time at ACU, and don’t stress too much about the “college experience.” Seek the Lord, and seek diverse, growth-provoking relationships. Become passionate about things in the world that you want to change, and then start changing them during your time at ACU. Always remember your value, despite what your friends, club, or campus may tell you. You’re here for a reason.

personal attacks, obscenity, defamation, erroneous information or invasion of privacy. Please limit letters to 350 words or fewer. A name and phone number must be included for verification purposes. Phone numbers will not be published. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu

So did the birds migrate south for the winter or what Declan @durklan Do christian frats shotgun la croix Madie @h_madz Cofffee by sylvan esso is the rainy day song I needed in high school but instead I was given eleven consecutive weeks of sweater weather Taentedah @Taenjohnson All people are created equal, but breakfast burritos are not.

nick boone @Nickboone

Jack Connor @jconnor458

If you think about it cars are just road boats

People who drive Tesla’s are incapable of thinking for themselves

Zach Moses @zachmoses

Evan Beck @Evan_Beck_

Can’t wait for the optimist article titled “the bird is the word”

I love the new electric scooters @BirdRide brought to Abilene. If you want to go dangerously fast, ride down the hill where the Lunsford overlooks the stadium! #SafetyFirst

EDITORIAL AND LETTER POLICY Unsigned editorials are the opinions of the Optimist and may not necessarily reflect the views of the university or its administration. Signed columns, cartoons and letters are the opinions of their creators and may not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of the Optimist or the university. The Optimist encourages reader response through letters to the editor but reserves the right to limit frequent contributors or to refuse to print letters containing

Evan @emr16c Will forever be angry ACU didn't get @masonramsey booked for wildcat week

Optimist Editorial Board | editor@jmcnetwork.com

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Monday, August 27, 2018

Sports | Page 7

Photo by LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR IN CHIEF Friday hopes to bring wisdom and experience to his teammates this upcoming season.

Collegiate Globetrotter

Jalone Friday teams up and plays with nation’s top talent in Italy MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

Redshirt junior center Jalone Friday was given the opportunity to represent and play for the United States in Italy this summer as he joined with other top collegiate talent. Friday played for the USA East Coast team that included Kansas guard Charlie Moore, South Carolina forward Justin Minaya, Colorado forward Evan Battey, Purdue guard Sasha Stefanovich and Purdue forward Aaron Wheeler. Friday, who is the first men’s basketball player to represent the university internationally, said he had been selected by coaches

Bonneau accepts position with University of Oklahoma BRIAN SWEET SPORTS REPORTER

Former ACU baseball Head Coach Britt Bonneau accepted a position as the volunteer baseball coach at the University of Oklahoma. Bonneau left at the end of last season. He had received a one-year extension of his contract the previous year. Bonneau is the third longest serving head coach for any ACU athletics team behind former men’s basketball coach, A.B Morris and current men’s tennis coach, Hutton Jones. He will be preceding Evan Mistich, the new Graduate Manager of the program who will oversee analytics, video and scouting areas. Some of Bonneau’s accolades as head coach include coaching 28 first-team all-region players, six-time Lone Star Coach of the year (2001, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010) and coached ACU to two wins over power-five opponents: Arizona (20142015) and TCU in 2018.

around the country to play for the team. “When I showed up to practices, they were basically telling people either you were selected, you were recommended or we obviously saw the we you played and we like how you played,” Friday said. “They told me I was actually selected and recommended by a few coaches.” His team showed up to New York in late July and practiced together for three days before departing to Venice, Italy. The team was coached by NBA and NCAA champion Larry Brown, the only coach in history to win titles at the professional and college level. He also

was an ABA champion, a three-time all-star and an Olympic gold medalist as a player. Friday said his experience taught him a lot in helping improve his game and hopes to keep the momentum of this summer up during his season. “It was truly a great, it showed me what guys in higher divisions can do, how they play, how their mindset is, and it shows me a lot that can help me in the long run,” Friday said. “I watched everyone closely – from the point guards to the centers – and I’m hoping I can bring the knowledge to ACU.” While in Italy, Friday and his team played four exhi-

bition games in which they split at two wins and two losses. They lost the first two matches against Germany and Italy, then faced Netherlands and defeated them twice in a row. Friday said he thought the team had not been given enough time to practice and get used to each other for the matchups. “I feel like we played pretty good; I felt like if we had at least a few more days of practice, we would have went 4-0,” Friday said. “In the two games that we did lose, we were still trying to figure out each other. In the last two, we figured it out, and those were the two games we won.”

Head coach Joe Golding and the rest of the men’s team were excited Friday had received the opportunity. Redshirt sophomore center Kolton Kohl said he’s looking forward to working with Friday after his summer experience. “You get to learn about the different competition he had, and it’s also good for me because he’s a starter, so I get to look after him and see what I need to do better,” Kohl said. “He got coached by a legend, so he’s going to be more experienced than I am, and he can help us throughout the season.” With the 2018-19 season approaching, Friday knows he’s ready to contribute to the team and

wants to show his teammates what he learned from his time in Italy. “I want to bring back wisdom, a few plays and competitiveness,” Friday said. “There’s a lot of stuff you learn over there, and you’re able to bring it back here with no problem.” Friday was the team leader in scoring last season with 13.3 points per game. He also dominated on defense with 50 blocks on the year and led his teammates in that category as well. Friday said he was thankful ACU put him in the position to play with this team and gave him the opportunity to learn more about his game.

Ward takes over as new athletics director LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

The former athletics director at Murray State in July was named the ninth athletics director in ACU history. Allen Ward was one of five candidates considered for the job after the departure of Lee de Leon, who took a job as executive senior associate athletics director/assistant vice president for development at Perdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. “I feel like it was a really good fit, it was something I felt like God was leading me to,” Ward said. “There’s something special going on at Abilene Christian University.” The search committee included Dr. Robert Rhodes, provost; Dr. Gary McCaleb, vice president; Suzanne Allmon, senior advisor to the president; Eric Oliver, alumnus and donor; Donny Edwards, alumnus and donor; Dr. Jonathan Stewart, faculty athletics representative; Adam Dorrell, head football coach; and Julie Goodenough, women’s basketball head coach. Schubert said the search committee looked for four key qualities – a strong Chris-

tian who is capable for serving the athletics program, a relational expert capable of engaging others and building excitement and momentum for the program, a proven leader of people capable of hiring and developing talent and a master strategist with a strong understanding of the business aspect of Div. I athletics. “Being the athletic supervisor at ACU requires broad shoulders, hands and feet that never tire, and a heart that is selfless and committed to pursuing God,” Schubert said. Dr. Phil Schubert, president of the university, announced Ward’s new position on July 16 at a press conference in the Hunter Welcome Center, and Ward official began Aug. 6. “We looked for very specific things, Allen has that,” Schubert said. Ward has been involved in collegiate athletics for 27 years, 14 at the University of North Texas and 13 as the athletics director at Murray State University. During his time at Murray State, the Racers participated in NCAA Tournament play 29 times, and earned 39 Ohio Valley

Ward was hired as Athletic Director this summer. He is coming from his AD position at Murray State. Conference championships. The men’s basketball team at MSU reached the NCAA Tournament 16 times, and is annually one of the top mid-major programs in the nation. During his tenure, they

won six regular-season championships and four conference titles. “Your success and your well-being will always be a priority for me,” Ward said to student athletes in attendance. Ward said a Murray

State motto was to have each student athlete leave the university with a championship ring on one hand, and a diploma in the other, and the same mission is true for the students he will mentor on campus.

FISU Games serve as larger platform for Wildcat Athletes B.J. MAXWELL JR. SPORTS WRITER

Four Wildcat athletes participated in the 2018 FISU America Games that took place in São Paulo, Brazil, from July 20-29, and a each earned medals. Senior thrower Kayla Melgar, outside hitter Katelyn Mueller, senior thrower

Morgan Knight and sophomore cross country runner Soren Underwood all received invitations to the prestigious games. The FISU games were an opportunity for the athletes to experience a different culture while competing in their respective athletics, they said. Each Wildcat brought back hardware to the states.

Meglar took home the gold medal in women’s discus, while also receiving silver in shot put. Knight received bronze medals in the hammer throw, shot put and discus competitions. Underwood received bronze in the 4x4 relay. All were members of the track and field team that collected a combined 23 medals.

Mueller was a member of the U.S. women’s volleyball team that defeated Chile, 3-2, to claim bronze at the games. Knight said he felt support from family, friends and the university, many of whom said they were proud of the athletes. “They were thinking the same thing for Kayla,

Kate and Soren,” he said. “It was good to have that and see that working. It felt genuine.” While in Brazil they were able to participate in charity work and serve the community of São Paulo. The trip served as more than just an opportunity to compete but as a chance to help make a difference, Melgar said.

“It definitely was a super eye-opening experience working with the orphanages and the kids that were over there,” Melgar said. “It was something that made me really think about what I want to do after college. It was one of the crazy things that God let happen, and I’m thankful for that.”

Page 8 | Sports

Monday, August 27, 2018

Back in Purple

STANDINGS Volleyball

Football closes summer workouts with final scrimmage MAX PRESTON SPORTS DIRECTOR

ACU finished its pre-season workouts with the Purple-White scrimmage Saturday evening at Wildcat stadium. The purple team, which included mainly starters, defeated the white team, made up of freshmen and backups, 45-3. Junior running back Tracy James emerged as the leading rusher for both teams as he ran for 63 yards and a touchdown with only

two carries in the game. Freshman running back Tyrese White also impressed in the scrimmage totalling 57 yard and three touchdowns. Redshirt sophomore quarterback Luke Anthony completed eight of his 11 passes and threw for a touchdown. His backup, redshirt freshman quarterback Sema’J Davis, went 10-15 with 156 yards and a touchdown. With summer training and workouts over, the Wildcats now turn its attention to Baylor this next weekend.

Team

Div. Ovrl.

UCA HBU SFA SHSU ACU UNO SELU Nicholls NWSU TAMU-CC UIW Lamar McNeese

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3-0 3-0 3-0 1-1 2-2 1-2 1-2 1-3 0-2 0-3 0-3 0-3 0-3

Soccer Team

Div.

Lamar McNeese ACU SHSU UCA HBU SELU NWSU SFA TAMU-CC UIW Nicholls

Photos by LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR IN CHIEF MAX PRESTON | SPORTS DIRECTOR

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SCHEDULE Football ACU SELU NWSU McNeese UCA UIW Nicholls KCU SBU

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Baylor ULM TAMU UNC Tulsa UNM Kansas Lamar HBU

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Soccer

Arteaga

Sophomore midfielder/ forward Christina Arteaga came in clutch when she scored the winning goal against UTEP a week ago to give her team the 1-0 win in overtime. Arteaga and the Wildcats face New Mexico State next at home Sunday.

Soccer Fall football camp closed with the annual purple and white scrimmage. The footbal team will play Baylor Saturday at 7:00 p.m. at McLean Stadium in Waco as their opening of the season. The team ended 2-9 last season, and looks to improve under Head Coach Adam Dorrel. BASEBALL

DBU pitching coach accepts head coach position LAUREN FRANCO EDITOR IN CHIEF

Photo by LAUREN FRANCO | EDITOR IN CHIEF McCarty took over as head coach, following Britt Bonneau’s resignation.

Former Dallas Baptist University baseball pitching coach Rick McCarty will take over as head baseball coach, succeeding Britt Bonneau, who resigned last month after leading the team for 22 years. Dr. Phil Schubert, president of the university, introduced McCarty at a press conference Tuesday, announcing that his duties would begin on June 20. “We wanted a man of faith, somebody who could be a spiritual leader for our

young men on the baseball field and with the other coaches in the athletic department,” Schubert said. “I was so delighted when I got the chance to sit down and visit with him. It didn’t take long before I knew this was the guy who was going to lead the next phase of our journey at ACU baseball.” McCarty started his coaching career in 2004 at Delta State as graduate assistant pitching coach, then moved to Southeast Missouri State in 2009. His time at DBU began in 2016 as pitching coach. “If we want to go places and do things that other

people aren’t doing, we have to make decisions and do things different than what other people are already doing,” McCarty said. “I do not have it figured out, but it’s not going to be for lack of effort. We want guys who have the growth mindset, that’s when players get good. I’m more than excited to hit the ground running.” Cumulatively, McCarty’s teams have an ERA of 4.50 and average 0.8 strikeouts per inning. He has also coached 22 players who have been selected in the Major League Baseball draft and has a combined record of 601-321.

Former MLB scout joins baseball staff “ MADISON CRITES SPORTS REPORTER

A former scout for the Cleveland Indians joined the Wildcat baseball coaching staff as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator. Blaze Lambert coached at the collegiate level for several universities, including Texas A&M Corpus-Christi, another Southland conference contender. He said he saw the new position at

ACU under new head coach Rick McCarty as a good opportunity not only for himself but also for his family. “It’s a great location; it’s a great university,” Lambert said. “They’re pouring into athletics, and then they made a great hire with Coach McCarty. When you put all of those things into consideration, and then you also bring your family in to consideration, it just seemed like a great fit.”

I believe he’ll push us to get better each day.”

DEREK SCOTT SENIOR OUTFIELDER & PITCHER

Lambert said he has a specific vision for the upcoming spring season. “I hope to add some new life, some new energy, some new direction to the team that we already have,” Lambert said. “With the coaches that we have hired and with

what we have now, there are a lot of good players here who can impact a program and achieve success.” The addition of Lambert, as well as other new coaching staff members, such as McCarty, will be a transition for the already established team with almost 20 senior players. Senior outfielder and pitcher Derek Scott said Lambert will bring a lot of experience to the pro-

gram. “I believe he’ll push us to get better each day,” he said. “We are ready to get the fall started and build relationships with the new staff.” Lambert said he hopes the new set of coaches working together will see growth within the program. “Going forward, we want to continue to bring in guys that are going to play hard, play aggressive and ultimately want to win.”

Owens

Senior forward Dylan Owens also came away with an overtime winning goal of her own against UTRGV Friday night that improved the Wildcats to 2-1.

Volleyball

Mueller

Sophomore outside hitter Katelyn Mueller totalled 58 kills over a weekend tournament in Atlanta where the Wildcats went 2-2. Her team next welcomes Texas Tech to Moody Tuesday evening at 6 p.m.

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