Building the Vision Construction relocates seven departments
vt vol. 103, no. 1
monday, august 25, 2014
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1 SECTION, 10 PAGES
INSIDE NEWS Chris Riley selected as new Vice President of Student Life Page 3
NEWS ACU Police Department responds to murder at the Grove
A FRESH START
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NEWS Highland Church of Christ offers instrumental worship on Sunday Page 5
CARTOON
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OPINION Meet this year’s eight Editorial Board members page 6
SPORTS New QB Parker McKenzie looks to former ACU QB for words of wisdom Page 10
SPORTS Soccer kicks off 2014 season with 1-0 loss to Tulsa
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SPORTS
ACU’s new students participate in Wecome Week activities. Read more on Page 8 paige otway STaff Photographer
Incoming students participate in the Welcome Week Olympics in Moody Coliseum, where freshmen and transfer students show their school spirit.
Student Life enforces new pledging rules Madeline Orr editor in chief The Office of Student Life has shortened the social club pledging process to a three-week period and prohibited the use of physical activity to initiate pledges. Chris Riley, vice president for Student Life, informed social club presidents of the changes during a Sunday night meeting at his house. Ri-
sports director
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NEWS Students’ Association recieves funding to bring concert to Abilene Page 3
NEWS Office for Multicultural Enrichment names new director Page 5
ONLINE VIDEO See the new students’ move-in stories during Welcome Week
acuoptimist.com
“Tom and Mark had very comprehensive conversations with both sister schools and also cohort schools,” Riley said. “Not only looking at their policies but also calling them and, in some instances, going and visiting with them about what they’re doing and what their expectations are of clubs, fraternities or sororities.” While pledging rules are altered every year, this year’s changes were
received by students with more disappointment and frustration than usual. “It was kind of surprising,” said Mason Smith, president of Sub T-16. “I didn’t realize that five weeks was unusual or that other schools were doing it so differently.” Smith, senior management major from Midland, said he thinks the men’s clubs will be more affected by not being able to do physical activity
than the shortened time period. “I know that initially people were bummed by the decision but what they don’t really understand, maybe because they haven’t talked to sponsors or alumni who pledged many years ago, is that pledging hasn’t always been that way,” Smith said. see pledging page 5
AD Mosley resigns to take Waco job daniel zepeda
Wildcat Reign continues with new events for upcoming year
ley said the changes are the result of a self-study of the ACU pledging process conducted by Tom Craig, director of student activities and productions, and Mark Jackson, associate director of student organizations and programs. Dr. Allison Garrett, executive vice president of the university, asked Craig and Jackson to evaluate ACU pledging because of concerns she had after last fall’s pledging season.
ACU athletic director Jared Mosley announced Friday morning that he will resign to become the new CEO and president of the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in Waco. “It obviously was a very tough decision to leave,” Mosley said. “I’ve been here 18 years going back to when I was a student, so anytime
you spend that much time in one place where you get to cultivate mea ningmosley ful relationships and connections with the people you work with is very difficult to walk away from.” His resignation is immediate, but Mosley will stay on with the university until
mid-October while beginning his new position. “In most situations, a move like this is due to you’re either asked to leave or you’re disgruntled, but this is a unique situation where it is neither,” Mosley said. “We feel that God is just calling us to a different place in life and we’re happy with where we’ve been and we feel very confident in where ACU will move in the future.”
President Phil Schubert has not named an interim director but did said that the search for Mosley’s replacement would begin immediately. “It’s been an honor and privilege to work with Jared,” Schubert said. “God has blessed him with enormous talents and abilities that have benefitted ACU under his leadership. While we will miss him, we wish him well in his new role at the
Texas Sports Hall of Fame.” Mosley was brought on as the seventh ACU director of athletics in June 2004. Since then, he has overseen the transition into Div. I athletics, helped lay out plans to bring on-campus stadiums for football and soccer, finalized a three-year deal with Adidas to be the official outfitter of Wildcat athletics and raised the overall student-athlete GPA from see Mosley page 9
Bennett renovation behind schedule brittany jackson staff reporter Campus became every constructor’s dream over summer as demolition started and the Vision In Action campaign gained speed. Construction began on Bennett Gymnasium shortly before the spring 2014 semester ended, and continued through summer. Plans for Chamber Hall’s demolition were enacted and other buildings on campus received renovations accordingly. Kevin Roberts, vice president of planning and operations, said he had to deal with the construction of Bennett, the athletic fields and relocation offices as well as dorm maintenance over summer break. “Summers are always, in the facility world, our hands down busiest season,” he said. Renovations for Bennett began around April last semester with the roping off
of a few parking spots in the Nelson lot and by the Phillips Education building. Roberts said the construction process was delayed two weeks because a truck to pour the cement was not available to be rented. As of now, the building has been gutted, the foundation laid and a steel skeleton of the building is being set up with walls coming soon. With weekly meetings in place to talk about design elements and classroom placements in Bennett, Roberts said he hopes construction will be completed by the end of September or early October. “Over the course, then, of the rest of that semester, each department will move in and get all their stuff set up and get ready to teach classes starting spring semester,” he said. However, in discussions in May, the physics and engineering departments were told Bennett would be ready see bennett page 8
HEATHER LEIPHART Staff Photographer
Bennett Gymnasium is being remodeled into a new home for the department of engineering and physics.
Abilene Christian University
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Monday
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Tuesday 11 a.m. Opening Chapel
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wednesday 7 p.m. Welcome to Abilene in Teague Special Events Center 8:30 One is Too Many presentation in Moody Coliseum
thursday
6 p.m. Student Congress interest meeting in the Campus Center Living Room
5 p.m. ACU versus Georgia State Watch Party in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center Gym D
7:30 p.m. Freud’s Last Session in Culp Theatre
8 p.m. Mandatory interest meeting for perspective pledges in Cullen Auditorium
Around Abilene
Chapel checkup To date:
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Remaining:
0 95 @acuoptimist
Aug. 25-30
Aug. 26
Aug. 27
Aug. 28
11 a.m.-5 p.m.“Then and Now” exhibit shows the artistic evolution of thirteen artists over a period of 25 years. Until Aug. 30 in the Jane Breed Gallery at the Center for Contemporary Arts.
5:45-6:45 p.m. Pioneer Baptist Church hosts their weekly Body and Soul Aerobics Class at the gym on their campus.
5:30-6:30 p.m. Southern Hills Church of Christ will host its weekly Pizza Feast. Join members for food and fellowship at Southern Hills campus. Price is $1 per slice, and the event will take place.
7 a.m.-12 p.m. Farmers Market at Mesquite and N. 1st
The Optimist optimist@acu.edu Police Log Announcements If you are interested in pledging in the fall semester, Student Life is holding a mandatory meeting at 8 p.m. Wednesday in Cullen Auditorium.
Center Living room. All students who are interested in running for building representative, housing representative or class officer are invited to attend.
The last day to register for class is Friday. It is the last day to add/drop within the block for block students, and the last day to add or drop for 100% refund for non-block students.
There will be an ACU versus Georgia State Watch Party at 5 p.m. Wednesday in the Recreation and Wellness Center - Gym D. Buffalo Wild Wings will cater the event.
Movies on the Hill will show Rudy at 8:30 Students’ Association is hosting a Stu- p.m. Sep. 5. The movie is free, but each dent Congress Interest Meeting at 6:00 family is asked to bring an item to donate. p.m. Aug. 28 in the Campus The requested items are: travel size hy-
giene items, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, lotion, soap and toilet paper. All donations will benefit the Christian Service Center.
The last day for women to register to pledge in the fall semester is Aug. 31. The last day for men to register to pledge is Sept. 12. Go to acu.edu/socialclubs to register. You must meet all the eligibilty Freud’s Last Session will run Aug. 28-30 at requirements. 7:30 p.m. in Culp Auditorium. Directed by Gary Varner, the play shows what There will be a Part Time Job and happens when faith and science collide Internship Fair from 10:00 a.m.-2 p.m. as C.S. Lewis pays Sigmund Freud a visit. Sept. 9 in the Campus Center. Students It features ACU Theatre professor Adam who are looking for part time employment Hester as Freud and audience favorite or internships while attending school at Jacob Alexander as C.S. Lewis. There will ACU will have the opportunity to visit with be a talkback after the play on Aug. 29. employers.
Volunteer Opp0rtunities The Alliance for Women and Children is seeking volunteers for after-school child care for Pre-K5th grade children, 6th-8th grade children and A-Teens Middle School Girls Program. For more information about times and location, contact Toni Brown at 325-677-5321 or info@afwconline.org. Beltway Park Baptist Church is seeking volunteers to help with special needs children in their program Kingdom Kids. Volunteers will be needed on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings. For more information, contact Sharla Sanders at 325-6926540 or sharlasanders@beltway.org. The International Rescue Committee in Abilene needs your help in welcoming refugees to our community. We are seeking the following donations: hygiene and cleaning supplies, bed linen, towels and kitchen items (dishware, silverware, pots/pans etc). Donations are accepted Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2-4 p.m. or by appointment. Their office is located at 3303 N. 3rd St. Suite D. For more information contact Marie-Pascale Manishimwe at 325-675-5643. Treadaway Kids is looking for more students and volunteers to join the group. For more information, contact Carly Henderson at cah10a@acu.edu. Friends for Life is seeking volunteers to help with both elderly residents and independent living elderly. Nursing home service opportunities include visiting, playing games, reading to the blind and assisting in arts and crafts. Independent living service opportunities include mowing lawns, grocery shopping and changing light bulbs. To volunteer contact Cecilia Barahona at 325-672-2635 or cecilia@friendsforlife.org. Love and Care Ministries is looking for volunteers to help with sorting clothing, stocking their food pantry, assisting in prayers in their prayer room and serving food to the homeless. For more information call 325-670-0246.
Volunteers are needed to help with daily
activities organized by the staff at Chisholm House. This could involve playing board games, helping with arts and crafts and helping with a walking club. For some of these tasks volunteers may be asked to lead a group or work alongside a staff coordinator. Volunteer opportunities are from 2-4 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. daily. Contact Larissa Blankenship at 817-578-9296. The Noah Project is seeking volunteers to help with tasks such as answering phone calls, providing child care and doing maintenance and housekeeping. To volunteer call 325-676-7107. The Betty Hardwick Center is seeking volunteers for the Human Resources Center to help with filing and organizing. This job requires someone with attention to detail who wishes to learn more about Human Resources. The job is open Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. To volunteer, please contact Martin Walker at 325-690-5235 or mwalker@bhcmhmr.org. House of Faith is an organization that seeks to take Jesus to neighborhood children. Volunteers are needed to help with the various programs they do throughout the week. Backyard Bible studies are hosted Mondays and Wednesdays and a youth program takes place on Thursday evenings. The organization is seeking volunteers who can commit to a specific day a week. House of Faith lasts from 3-5:30 p.m. To volunteer or for more information contact Amy Jeffers at abj09a@acu.edu or call 832-331-5324. Breakfast on Beech Street is seeking volunteers to help set up, prepare and serve breakfast to homeless/lower income folks any Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday at 5:30 a.m. or Tuesdays at 5 a.m. B.O.B.S. is located at First Christian Church on 3rd Street and Beech Street Service times must be scheduled in advance. To serve on, Mondays contact Jody Depriest at 325-669-3312 or jody.depriest@gmail. com. To serve on Tuesdays contact Allen Daugherty at 325-660-6949 or ale.al@ suddenlink.net. To serve on Wednesdays, contact Jane Harvey at 325-695-0092 or jharvread@aol.com. To serve on Thursdays, contact Margaret Beasley at 325-692-4149 or mbeasley5@suddenlink.net. To serve on Fridays contact Terry Stremmel at terry. stremmel@acu.edu.
University Place is seeking volunteers to help with resident birthday parties for residents on the third Wednesday of each month at 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact Linda Tijerina at 325-676-9946. The Food Bank of West Central Texas needs volunteers to help sort and stock food and other items Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. The Food Bank is located at 5505 N. 1st St. For more information contact Janice Serrault at 325-695-6311 or abfoodbk@camalott.com. The Christian Service Center is seeking volunteers to help with filing requests for items such as clothing and bedding from the donation center, sort and organize donations and occasionally pick up donated items. Volunteers are needed every weekday and the first Saturday of each month between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m. For more information, contact Roberta Brown at 325-673-7561 orrobertabrown51@hotmail.com. For more information on the program visit http://www.uccabilene.org/ministries/csc. htm. Big Brothers/Big Sisters offers two volunteer programs. Lunch Buddies pairs volunteers with a little brother or little sister to have lunch with once a week for 30 minutes. Lunch Buddies has a preferred time of 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The community based program pairs volunteers with a little brother or little sister that they will hang out with two to four times a month. Both programs require commitment to the program for 12-18 months. To sign up, stop by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters office at 547 Chestnut St. or contact Randy Woods at 325-674-3102. The Salvation Army is looking for volunteers for a variety of needs such as sorting and pricing items in the thrift store, helping in the kitchen and/or doing yard work. Times are flexible and volunteers are needed Monday-Saturday. The Salvation Army is located at 1726 Butternut St. For more information, contact J.D. Alonzo at 325-677-1408 or visit www.satruck.com. Meals on Wheels Plus needs volunteer drivers to deliver afternoon meals to seniors and adults with disabilities MondayFriday between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Training is provided. For more information contact Samantha Barker at 352-672-5050 or visit http://
mealsonwheelsplus.com. Christian Ministries Food Pantry needs volunteers to help with tasks such as cleaning up, stocking shelves and bagging flour. They are seeking students who can make a commitment of 1-3 hours a week. For more information contact Becky Almanza at 325-673-5295 or balmanza7@sbcglobal.net. The Center for International Education is looking for one male and one female volunteer to serve as conversation partners with ACU scholars who are looking to improve their English language skills. Volunteers will be required to spend one hour a week practicing conversation. The day, time, and location are up to the students to decide. For more information or to volunteer, contact Leanne Moore at 325-674-2821 or lmm10b@acu.edu. For additional volunteer opportunities visit: www.acu.edu/campusoffices/ccsl/ ministry-service/volunteer-opportunities/
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news
monday 08.25.14
Riley selected as vice president of Student Life Madeline Orr editor in chief Chris Riley, a 2000 ACU graduate, was hired this summer for the position of vice president of Student Life. Previously he served as the university’s associate general counsel and legal compliance coordinator for eight years. Riley said his first week in the role, beginning on August 4, was spent meeting with all other officers and deans outside of Student Life. His second week was spent meeting with all the
directors within Student Life to see what the perceptions were from the outside and what Student Life needed from the inside. “My goal is once we get past the beginning of school, to start thinking about our vision, hopefully to coincide with our move the Campus Center.” Riley said the biggest change in the Office of Student Life this semester will be the moving of their physical location to the basement of the Campus Center and how it has an impact on all of Student Life moving toward one collective vision.
Riley received his Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law in 2003. riley He said a lot of his work in legal services at ACU was related to Student Life. “There are just so many laws and regulations as it relates with things we’re doing with students,” he said. “Whether that be sexual assault or crime reporting, there are so many laws that are being pushed on higher education es-
pecially within Student Life.” Dr. Allison Garrett, executive vice president of the university, said Riley has only been in this role for a couple of weeks, but is already making a wonderful and positive impact. “He is widely respected across campus and has worked with folks from lots of different areas on campus over the the last eight years,” she said. Dr. Jan Meyer, executive director of Christian Service and Leadership, served as the interim vice president
of Student Life during the eighteen-month search period. Anthony Williams, chief business services officer, chaired a search committee that was comprised of people from different areas of the university. “They reviewed more than 140 applications,” Garrett said. “I’m very grateful for Anthony for doing such a great job leading that committee.” The committee disbanded in December without a hire being made, leaving the position vacant until this summer. Riley said he was interest-
ed in this position because of the impact Student Life had on him as a student. “I can appreciate not only the things that happen in the classroom but outside the classroom and making sure those things work well,” he said. “We provide not just the services but the opportunities that our students are looking for outside the classroom and making sure it is the kind of community that we want it to be.” contact orr at mco10b@acu.edu
Highland Church introduces instrumental service Allison brown managing editor Highland Church of Christ had its first Sunday morning instrumental service
on Aug. 17. The service introduced the church’s new format, with a second service at 11 a.m. on Sundays after an a cappella service at 8:30 a.m.
The elders announced a year ago that they would begin making preparations to implement instruments on Sunday mornings. Dr. John Willis, a High-
Photo Courtesy of debbie riggs photography
Brandon Scott Thomas and the Highland worship team led the first Sunday morning instrumental service August 17 in Highland’s newly remodeled auditorium.
land elder for the past 38 years, said at the time of the announcement, the church was not equipped to use instruments in a Sunday service. However, improvements to the auditorium have made that possible. After renovating the auditorium over the summer, Highland held the inaugural service in its newly remodeled space. Brandon Scott Thomas, Highland’s worship minister, said it was an exciting Sunday for the church. “This Sunday is one we have been thinking and praying about for several years,” Thomas said. Thomas said church leaders and elders have put in many hours with him thinking about Highland’s approach to instrumental worship. “Over the years, we have dealt with many issues,” Willis said. “What we always do is spending time in the word, praying, talking openly and involving everyone in the church.” Thomas and his team have spent the last year crafting a service that will invite people to engage in worship while not feeling like they are watching a
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We don’t want to model it after anyone else. That’s where the challege ismaking sure it fits us, our DNA, who we are.” Brandon scott thomas worship minister highland church of crhist
performance. “It can be a show or it can be a sincere expression of worship to God,” Willis said. “And I think it’s worshipping God.” Thomas said one of the goals was making sure the service was “authentically Highland.” “We don’t want to model it after anyone else,” Thomas said. “That’s where the challenge is – making sure it fits us, our DNA, who we are.” Thomas also noted an important factor in creating Highland’s own instrumental style was honoring the Church of Christ tradition of strong vocals. “As we went into it, what really fits our Church of Christ heritage is to make sure the voices are still prominent,” Thomas said. “Planning times where the instruments drop out and
it’s voices only, that is important.” The use of instruments also provides new opportunities for people to serve and give back to the church body. “One of the cool things about this is that up on that stage, eight people were using their gifts that have not been able to be used on a Sunday morning,” Thomas said. “All those people are Highland people. It’s pretty neat to think that this opens up a whole new avenue for people who are very gifted by God to give back to the church.” Thomas and Willis described the response from Sunday’s service as incredible. “I would imagine there is some negative feedback but I haven’t heard any,” Thomas said. “I picked up my phone after church and had 57 text messages from people of how excited they were. We are praying that it continues to connect with people and that God will bless us as we continue to move forward.” contact brown at akb12b@acu.edu
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Features
monday 08.25.14
Freshmen participate in the three legged race at the Mentor Group Olympics.
Paige Otway sTAFf Photographer
A Welcome Week Peek New students on campus spend the week learning the Wildcat Way
M
ore than 1,020 incoming students, including 60 transfer students, were welcomed to campus last week during Welcome Week with the use of technology and tradition. Dr. Eric Gumm, director of the First-Year Program, said the week consisted of the same team-building exercises that have greeted freshmen for years – with a few minor tweaks. “We made adjustments to the team-building and Twister events from last year to better balance the time and provide the opportunity for all new students to participate in the giant Twister tradition,” Gumm said. Alex Abston, junior pre-law
communication major from The Woodlands, was a student director of Welcome Week and said a major change in Welcome Week was the use of technology. “We added a social media component to kind of test running it this year,” Abston said. Each day brought a new Instagram competition in which students took pictures of their CORE groups and hashtagged it “#ImWakingUp” with the day’s number to gain points for their team in the Mentor Group Olympics. Abston said the Source Book that was handed out to freshmen upon their arrival in the past was integrated into a free app that students could
download on their phones called “Guide Book.” The app contained everything the students needed for the week. “You can post pictures, you can find out the schedule and it really helps,” Abston said. Gumm said the freshmen seemed to be enjoying themselves throughout the week. “Our primary goal for Welcome Week is to prepare the new students for the start of the semester so the overall success of the week will be determined by how well they begin the semester next week,” Gumm said. “At this point all indications are that it has been a very successful, and awakening, Welcome Week.” Linsey Thut
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features Editor Jarred Schuetze Staff Photographer
Above: A student poses for Twister game.
Above: Students participate in the Candlelight Devotional Paige Otway Staff Photographer
Jarred Schuetze Staff Photographer
Mandy Lambright chief Photographer Paige Otway sTAFf Photographer
Above: A team of freshmen cheer on their team at the Mentor Group Olympics. Far Right: Students compete in the Mentor Group Olympics. Right: Freshmen lead a parade into the Mentor Group Olympics.
Mandy Lambright chief Photographer Paige Otway Staff Photographer
Paige Otway Staff Photographer
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News
Monday 08.25.14
ACU considering concerts on campus Brittany jackson staff reporter Student responses to a summer survey measuring music tastes, price ranges and more may lead to more entertainment choices. A group of students, staff and administrators began meeting in June to brainstorm ways to make students’ experiences on campus more entertaining and have been conducting weekly meetings since. Students’ Association President Rodney Johnson, Chief Marketing Officer Jason Groves, Director of Alumni Relations Craig Fisher, Director of University Events Jennifer Ellison, Allison Garrett, executive vice president of the university, and Amanda Pittman, marketing
manager at ACU, make up the committee. Johnson, senior finance major from Odessa, said bringing entertainment to campus was a key part of his election process and is a goal he will continue to pursue. “It’s something in high demand, something our student body is longing for,” he said. The goal, Johnson said, is to bring at least one artist to campus every semester. “We’re looking at relevant artists that students will care about, and we’re trying to have a wellrounded view of campus before we bring someone in,” he said. Johnson said Groves voiced his support in bringing more bands to campus last semester, and they formed a committee to better facilitate
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We want to do our best to make a fun, entertaining and incredible experience for students while they’re in Abilene.” Jason Groves Chief marketing officer
the mission. Groves said bringing in an artist would cut costs of gas, food and lodging and will provide a smaller venue for local students. “What this really does is saves students a trip to Fort Worth or Dallas,” he said. Johnson tried to secure musician Ben Rector to perform last spring, and got as far as talking with agents, but his efforts hinged on time restrictions and funding and eventually fell apart. With a genre in mind, Johnson created a survey to get the student body’s
thoughts on which artists would be most popular. The survey asked about prices, preference of artists and genres. It was sent out to the entire student body, with around a 1,200-student response – about 33 percent. Johnson found that students preferred an alternative genre with artists like the Avett Brothers and would pay between $20 and $30 for tickets. Groves said funds for the entertainment would come from corporate sponsors and departments around campus
that are willing to provide the money up front. “There’s not a budget with money earmarked for this,” he said. Ticket sales would even the costs and money would be given back to the departments. “A large portion of the cost is on the sound, staging and lighting and all of that,” Groves said. “That provides the awesome experience, but it’s not cheap.” The concerts will ideally draw people from the entire Abilene area, and cities as far as Lubbock, appealing to a wide majority of college students. A large audience, combined with VIP opportunities and ticket upgrades, would boost revenue for the concerts, Groves said. He said a festival bring-
ing in a few lesser-known artists is also an option under evaluation. As of now, Groves said the committee is looking at bringing an artist in mid-November. The decision will be made in the next few weeks but relies heavily on funding, costs and discussions with agents. “If we feel like we can break even, then we’d secure a band,” he said. “We know music is an important part of people’s lives, and we want to do our best to make a fun, entertaining and incredible experience for students while they’re in Abilene.”
contact jackson at bkj12a@acu.edu
Former student named new OME director catherine blakemore arts editor Prentice Ashford was appointed as the new director of the Office for Multicultural Enrichment. OME advises and oversees campus groups like Black Students’ Association, Hispanos Unidos, Sanctify Hip Hop Company, SHADES Step Squad and Virtuous Sisterhood. Though students lead the groups, Ashford will be the director of those students. “What we want to accomplish for students is by the time of graduation, the students will be equipped with the knowledge and experience to be active, productive and
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I’m coming from a place where I know what the students want and what the students need.”
Prentice Ashford Director of the office for multicultural enrichment
vocal leaders in their diverse communities,” Ashford said. “We really like to, in those groups, give them the platform and opportunity to engage in conversation with people they don’t normally meet on a day-to-day basis.” Ashford, an ACU graduate, has ties to the community that he believes will benefit him in this new position.
“I’m coming from a place where I know what the students want and what the students need,” Ashford said. “I think I can really relate from that perspective.” Ashford is also the director of Pulse, an on-campus scholarship program. He will seek to move Pulse from Dr. McCaleb’s office into the OME office so there is
limited confusion with students. Aside from the shift of existing staff within Student Life, there are no other perceived personnel changes or major changes other than the location change for Pulse meetings. Rodney Johnson, Students’ Association president, worked in OME under two different directors and was led by Prentice in Pulse for two years. He thinks Ashford’s degree in family studies will benefit the group. “That shows his relational aspect,” said Johnson. “He’ll be able to mediate to the students.” Johnson, a senior marketing major from Odes-
JUST Program modifies recruiting and curriculum for Dallas students Allison Brown managing editor The Justice and Urban Studies Team is approaching its third year with new recruiting strategies and a fortified curriculum. JUST, a program of the Honors College, is a collaboration between ACU and CitySquare that operates on-campus and on-ground in Dallas. Over the past two years, ACU students have partnered with CitySquare to fight urban poverty in south Dallas through classwork and hands-on projects. In its third year of the partnership, the Honors College has changed its approach for recruiting students to be a part of this work. Dr. Michael Harbour, director of operations and finance for ACU at CitySquare, said the first two teams, JUST 1 and
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The continual goal is to make this a transformational experience for students”
Dr. jason morris interim dean of the honors college
JUST 2, were recruited out of high school. “Previously, we identified high-caliber, exceptional students who showed interest in social justice,” Harbour said. “This year, we decided it would be smart to recruit freshman during the first semester.” In Honors Cornerstone classes this year, freshmen will learn about what previous JUST teams have done and they, too, will be invited to join in this social justice initiative. The Honors College
will offer a recruiting trip later this fall for any students interested. This new approach could lead to an increase in student participants, but the Honors College plans to keep the number around 20 to 25 students on the team. “That’s a good number for us and it’s the max that we can do right now,” said Alison Spencer, academic coordinator for the Honors College. “We still can only manage a certain amount of people in each class but we are open to growth.” After the fall semester, students will be invited to participate in the program. The program will consist of two trips to Dallas in the spring with opportunities for summer-long and yearlong service in Dallas. Dr. Jason Morris, interim dean of the Honors College, said the program is designed to offer students a yearlong experience in Dallas during their sophomore year. Morris has
Pledging: Clubs try to make best of changes Continued from page 1 He said it was only about ten years ago when hazing laws began to grow, forcing pledging to turn away from physical abuse and transition to calisthenics or physical activity as punishment. “You hear stories from old guys talking about getting paddled out on the lawn after Chapel. When people realized they couldn’t do that anymore, thewwn the boot camp style of pledging took off,” he said. Riley said other universities do not allow calisthenic activities and are concerned with any physical activity that causes fatigue. “In the past we have tried to draw the line incrementally and create some vague expectations, but students are very imaginative when it comes to pushing the boundaries of what those things are,” Riley
said. Some of the changes are not based on legal decisions or other schools but are a result of changes in type of students ACU attracts. “We want to think of ways for clubs to be more successful for the types of students that we have, that don’t necessarily know what clubs are and don’t have families that have been in clubs,” Riley said. “We want to try to provide opportunities for as much participation as we can.” Sarah Hendrix, president of Sigma Theta Chi, said she thinks her club could still uphold their traditions despite the changes. “We may have to change the way that we go about the traditions but the traditions are going to be able to stay within the realm of what our club as been about all these years,” said Hendrix, senior psychology major from
Abilene. “We’re just going to have to be creative in how we present it.” Riley said Student Life is creating a mindset that clubs will continue to thrive and still have a goal for the pledging process but wants to learn how clubs can do the same things with these limitations in place. “It is really going to take partnership with the sponsors and the leaders and helping them think outside the box in what those new things could be,” he said. Smith said his club will try to make the best of the changes. “It’s easy to get fired up about, but if you do your best to adapt and prove to the members that we can make it just as good or better without that stuff then it’s going to be a heck of a lot more fun.” contact Orr at mco@acu.edu
worked to establish a set curriculum for the year in Dallas, so students will be able to plan more in advance. The coursework and projects that students engage in as part of the program will now allow students to earn a minor in Sociology at the end of their time in Dallas. Feedback from students on the first two teams has helped craft these changes to make the experience impactful to everyone involved. “We have learned a lot,” Morris said. “The continual goal is to make this a transformational experience for students, one in which they can use their own gifts and abilities to make a difference in the world.”
contact brown at akb12b@acu.edu
sa, also thinks Ashford has other qualities to offer as an ACU student who graduated only two years ago. “He’s also well-rounded and can do the business side of it,” Johnson said. “Not only does he have all those qualifica-
tions, he has a fresh student perspective. They couldn’t have found anybody better.”
contact blakemore at crb13a@acu.edu
Opinion
Monday 08.25.14
6
Meet the 2014-2015 EDITORIAL BOARD The editorial board meets once a week to hash out a collective opinion on news and issues of local and national importance. Through spirited debate and some friendly argument, we come to a consensus on topics relevant to you. THAT’S WHAT VAGABONDAGE SAID SAMANTHA SHE SUTHERLAND
VAGABONDAGE THE ORRACLE
SAMANTHAMADELINE SUTHERLAND ORR
MARISSA JONES
Classification: JUNIOR HOMETOWN: lake jackson
Classification: senior HOMETOWN: Abilene
Classification: senior HOMETOWN: North Richland Hills
First year on the editorial board, not sure what I’m doing here, but hey, this should be fun.
Hopefully one day she’ll be able to spell restarant restaraunt restaurant on the first try.
Madeline is trying to elevate small talk to medium talk.
VIEWS VAGABONDAGE FROM GOODY SAMANTHA SUTHERLAND TWO-SHOES
LINSEY THUT
Classification: junior HOMETOWN: MISSION VIEJO, CALIFORNIA
Classification: Strangely enough, all I senior crave isHOMETOWN: bean food.keller I’m constantly brimming with opinions, but I’m not @overheardACU one Linsey loves all things superhero, coffee and music-relatto talk much in a group. So this is where you’ll hear ed. When she’s not holed up in the newsroom, she loves my two cents, brace yourselves. living that up the last year of her life on the hill.
Classification: senior HOMETOWN: Burbank, California I love the sound of my own voice, so naturally I became a print journalist.
hashtagACU
DAILY DOODLE VAGABONDAGE DOSAGE SAMANTHA SUTHERLAND BEN TODD
Follow @acuoptimist on Twitter
Classification: Sophomore HOMETOWN: Chang Mai, Thailand
Classification: Sophomore HOMETOWN: midland
When not drawing comic strips, Ben is singing, sporting, gaming, reading, writing, and sleeping. His only known weaknesses are comic sans and fruits (especially oranges).
I used to pretend to be a student at Hogwarts, and sometimes I still do.
Aug. 21 9:37 a.m.
daily doodle dosage
by BEN TODD
Aug. 18 3:16 p.m.
If you have an ACU princess sticker on your car I have some serious questions
The scenic drive to Abilene always builds my faith by confirming my belief in the curse and increasing my longing for new creation.
@RickAtchley
@austinkilcullen
Aug. 24 1:06 p.m.
Aug. 14 11:22 a.m.
Abilene is currently the source of my excitement. This may mean I’m already dead, I don’t know. I’ve never been more afraid of myself.
My mom is still watching everyone’s ice bucket challenges.
@AlexWhitten Aug. 23 9:23 p.m.
@gabersgguerra
People who screenshot snapchats are the reason I have trust issues.
Aug. 23 7:16 p.m.
Freshmen talent show would be a lot better if you could, you know, actually hear the speakers.
@k_winz Aug. 17 1:15 p.m.
The orange people are
very helpful #livepurple @k_winz #acumovein #acu
@LambornPhillip @phyrebyrd
Yaks@ACU #acuoptimist on Yik yak
Editorial
Opinions lead to healthy dialogue
T
he word “opinion” often finds itself tossed around in the same conversations as the words “conflict” or “disagreement.” This is unfortunate because it gives “opinion” a negative connotation, rather than suggesting some of the other rich benefits that opinions bring not just to our conversations – but also our communities. The goal of the opinion page in the Optimist each week is to offer our community a collection of opinions that, agreed with or not, create dialogue across campus. That doesn’t mean we hope arguments and fits of rage ensue. Our hope is that our audience pauses long enough to think critically about their own opinions, how they were formed and how someone else could arrive at an opposing opinion. Each opinion page includes varying amounts of
“
Just as the Optimist has chosen to excercise our first amendment rights through freedom of speech and press, we encourage our readers to do the same.”
columns, editorials, cartoons and audience opinions via social media. A column is the opinion of one single person. Some are serious and some are light-hearted, but no matter the subject, the writer decides the topic and signs their name to it. An editorial is the collective opinion of the editorial board. The editorial board is comprised of the eight members you see below. The stance we’ve taken on the local or national issue we’ve chosen to discuss is the combined opinion of us eight alone--not the
university or anyone other than ourselves. When a consensus among the eight is not reached, two editorials with opposing views will be published. This allows us to accurately present the argument of each side. The cartoon, one of the most popular features of this page, is often created to help the audience visualize the viewpoint presented in the editorial. The tweets are one way we give our audience a voice in our final product. However, the newest addition to the opinion page is
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
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.
published by the department of journalism and mass communication editorial and management board
Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79609 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
newsroom (325) 674-2439
sports desk (325) 674-2684
the publishing of YikYaks: the controversial, yet popular social media app that allows students to share their opinion anonymously within the same geographical location. Whether it is an individual, collective or anonymous opinion, we believe the opinion page can provide our audience with content that makes us all more well-informed, critical thinkers (*every CORE student cringes*). Just as the Optimist has chosen to exercise our First Amendment rights through freedom of speech and press, we encourage our readers to do the same. Comments online and letters to the editor are encouraged and may be published in the Optimist.
At Sharky’s and it’s suspiciously devoid of Siggies. They must still be in Africa.
If a girl eats a salad, but doesn’t post it on Instagram, did she really eat it?
Remember guys longboards are th most stylish and not to mention the most efficent mode of transportation
“I’m sorry” and “my bad” are the same...unless you’re at a funeral
Freshman bio majors, see you in COBA in a year.
If you were good enough to play college sports somebody would have asked you to. Welcome to regular life.
If you’re still wearing your welcome week name tag there is no hope for you.
Love seeing how many people back Subbers on here. Goes to show it’s about quality not quantity.
contact the optimist at jmcnetwork@acu.edu
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news
monday 08.25.14
Library Starbucks gets certified makeover linsey thut features editor The Starbucks in the library was renovated and updated over the summer so students can now grab their caffeine fix from an actual Starbucks franchise. Anthony Williams, chief business services officer, said library baristas trained over the summer with representatives from Seattle-based Starbucks Coffee Co. to learn how to brew official Starbucks drinks. “Some of the employ-
ees have spent eight hours a day for two consecutive weeks just getting ready to be able to be certified by Starbucks,” Williams said. Two other Starbucks representatives stopped by this week to approve the quality of the drinks being served. Willliams said last year the library coffee shop was classified as a Starbucks Proudly Brewed, which according to the Starbucks website, allowed them access to Starbucks equipment and syrups to make a select few of their drinks as well as branded cups, straws and sleeves
for serving. “Proudly Brewed has been classified as a lower ring of Starbucks, “Williams said. “We had access to hot drinks, but Brewed doesn’t have cold recipes or the use of gift cards or the full menus.” The library Starbucks was upgraded over the summer to a fully licensed Starbucks which now allows it to serve Starbucks pastries and the full menu. The renovations for the café itself were also a part of the upgrade. Williams said the cost of the coffee shop renovations were minimal for ACU.
“How it works is actually our partner, ARAMARK, with the money they set aside to invest back in the dining program, is actually paying for the renovation,” Williams said. Williams said so far the new Starbucks has already tripled in traffic and revenue compared to last year. “I anticipate our traffic and revenue doubling this next year,” Williams said. He said the idea for the Starbucks update came from student surveys and focus groups. “Students have told us the last couple of years,
‘This is what we expect,’” Williams said. “When we use the data in that way, we’ve always been very, very successful.” Several students expressed their love for the new Starbucks brews. Alicia Adams, senior nursing major from Boerne, said the new Starbucks will make the library an even better place to connect with friends as well as make new ones. “I think it’s going to be a great opportunity for freshmen especially to come here and not only enjoy great coffee, but to make friends with one an-
other,” Adams said. Nikki Mathur, graduate psychology major from Abilene, said she loves the new Starbucks because of the many new choices it offers. “It’s awesome,” Mathur said. “We can have way more variety, sizes, snacks, and all the drinks.” Williams said the renovated Starbucks will take Bean Bucks and Campus Cash and will soon accept gift cards.
contact thut at lct10a@acu.edu
ACUPD responds to fatal stabbing at The Grove abigail runnels page 2 editor ACU police were among the first responders to a fatal stabbing earlier this summer at The Grove Apartments. ACUPD, along with Abilene PD, answered a call at 2:20 a.m. on July 27 at the complex on Judge Ely Boulevard. Kaleb Cory, a 19-year-old Abilene resident, was stabbed and later pronounced dead at Hendrick Medical Center. “Multiple APD units responded to the call, but
they requested ACUPD because of the apartment’s nearness to campus,” said Jimmy Ellison, ACU chief of police. Ellison said the conflict started when a group of people arrived, uninvited, to a party already in progress. When they were asked to leave, many of the party’s guests moved outside to the parking lot where the fight occurred. APD arrested the person allegedly responsible for Cory’s murder at 10:15 p.m the same day. “D’Angelo Bell was arrested for capital murder
and aggravated assault,” Abilene Chief of Police Stan Standridge told Big Country Homepage. It is not yet known if Bell knew Cory or what the fight was about. Ellison deferred many questions to APD because it is their investigation. Many details of the incident are not available to the public as it is still under investigation. Though none of the parties involved were affiliated with ACU, many students and parents have called ACUPD over the past few weeks. Parents
“
That sort of stuff can happen anywhere, and Abilene is no exception. I know the police are doing their best to protect us.”
melody landrum junior elementary education major from frisco
are concerned about the safety of students living in the apartments and question if the stabbing is grounds for residents to terminate leases. “While there are a lot of calls for ACUPD about loud parties, this type of
call is extremely rare,” Ellison said. Ellison warns that it is important for students living off-campus to be cautious about throwing and attending parties because tragedies happen quickly. “Parties often start
with good intentions, but with social media it is easy for parties to grow and get out of control,” Ellison said. Melody Landrum, junior elementary education major from Frisco, is not worried about her safety while living off-campus. “That sort of stuff can happen anywhere, and Abilene is no exception,” Landrum said. “I know the police are doing their best to protect us.” contact runnels at anr11a@acu.edu
World Wide Witness sends students throughout world james eldred staff reporter About 70 students interned in nearly 30 countries this summer as part of the WorldWide Witness program. WorldWide Witness was founded in 2001 to act as ACU’s summer mission internship program. Students typically stay with a host family to work in the community according to their spiritual gifts and talents, said WorldWide Witness director Larry Henderson. “It’s designed for students to go and spend three months with missionaries in some setting around the world,” Henderson said. “We’ve got more than 60 locations – we don’t go to all of them every year, but all of them have missionaries ready and eager to accept interns.” The program differs from other common mission trips in at least two major ways: first, the length of time spent is considerably longer than most summer missions. Second, the students tend to remain in the same city or village for most, if not all, of their time in the country. Students traveled to such international countries as Zambia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Costa Rica, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand and U.S. cities like New York City
“
You learn about culture and about your teammates so you can each bring your own strengths.”
and Portland, Oregon. “Our interns typically go to one place and stay there,” he said. “It’s not like they’re on a tour to see different places. They might visit neighboring countries for a variety of reasons, but that would be the exception rather than the rule.” Bailey Cate, junior communications major from Fremont, Nebraska, worked alongside a local church in Singapore for nine weeks. “When you go on a week-long mission trip, it’s difficult to make and maintain relationships with the people you work with,” Cate said. “But I was there for two and a half months. Those people are a part of my life, and I talk to them all the time.” Students participating in the program take a three-credit upper-level Bible course in the spring to prepare for the upcoming summer. “The course is the heart of our training,” Henderson said. “It teaches team dynamics and spiritual disciplines – all sorts of interesting things that help to form our interns and prepare them for their trip.”
Amy Pinegar junior nursing major from chesapeake, virginia
Amy Pinegar, junior nursing major from Chesapeake, Virginia, said the class was a valuable part of the experience. “The best part about it is forming relationships with your team,” she said. “You learn about the culture and about your teammates, so you can each bring in your own strengths.” Pinegar spent her summer in Bangkok, Thailand, with a few other nursing students, working alongside a local hospital. “We did all sorts of different ministries while we were there,” she said. “My trip was mostly focused on medicine – trying to integrate nursing into our mission work.” Henderson said that despite only debriefing a few students so far, this summer’s program seems to have been an enjoyable one for the students. Cate agreed. “It’s an incredible opportunity to see another part of the world and how God is working in that part of the world,” Cate said. “It’s easy to just think about yourself – you get wrapped up in school and everything that’s going on in your
Photo Courtesy of Bailey Cate
Bailey Cate, junior communications major from Fremont, Nebraska, worked at a church camp in Singapore for nine weeks this summer. life, but it’s so rewarding to see the things going on around the globe.” “It was one of the best experiences of my life,” Pinegar said. “Even though I was there for nine weeks, it was hard to say goodbye.” Students can begin the application process or get more information by visiting w w w.worldwidewitness.org.
contact eldred at jfe11a@acu.edu
news
Monday 08.25.14
8
Chambers’ construction relocates offices BRITTANY JACKSON staff reporter The demolition of Chambers Hall has been postponed until after winter break, at the least, prolonging the original discussions to tear the building down over summer. Instead, Kevin Roberts, vice president of planning and operations, said longterm options for placing the English and Psychology departments were evaluated, leading to a more complicated process. “It was just like the old domino effect – we hit one and all these things started happening and moving ev-
eryone out,” he said. English will move to the Ha rd i n-Ad m i n i st r at ion Building, and Psychology will move into McKenzie Hall, where the counseling clinic is currently housed. However, moving English to the Administration Building will displace the Graduate School offices, and placing Psychology in McKenzie will displace Student Life offices. Roberts said the university decided to move the Graduate School into the third floor of the library over summer. The offices only eliminate a few study rooms. which Roberts said are rarely used.
Books from the third floor will be relocated to the first floor where compact shelves will be installed. A study room on the first floor will also be filled with books, but Roberts said the room was never used and will most likely not be missed. The Graduate School offices are complete, but visual aspects of the offices are still being improved and are expected to be complete in a few weeks. Student Life offices will be moved into the basement of the Campus Center in place of the bowling alley, which has sat unused for the past few years. Roberts said construc-
tion is expected to be done around September. Chris Riley, vice president of Student Life, said the main focus of construction was on the dorms over summer, but is now being turned to the Campus Center and Bennett. “Right now we’re in a state of flux because everybody is in a holding pattern waiting for that to get done,” he said. “Realistically, I would say maybe a November move-in time frame.” A new elevator will be put in, replacing the stairwell to the basement by the Campus Store. Students’ Association will also receive new offices. The WFF Custodial
Services office behind Chambers Hall will also be demolished, moving the house-cleaning staff to the Nichols Home across the street from Edwards Hall on Campus Court, which previously housed the technical support team. The technical support team moved to the second floor of Zellner Hall, where University Marketing used to reside. Marketing then moved into the Vanderpool Building, which was renovated to install a more open-space work place with sliding glass doors and glass walls. “It really puts everyone together in a much more collaborative environ-
ment,” Roberts said. The Vanderpool renovation started mid-May and is completed. In addition to the relocation renovations, the Witt House, across the street from Nelson Hall on E.N. 16th Street, was gutted and refurbished to serve as collaborative grounds for contractors. Roberts said the decision to renovate the house was made in an effort to conserve money that would’ve been spent on trailers for the construction workers to office out of.
contact Jackson at bkj12a@acu.edu
Workers bustle to complete athletic fields, to start demolition of Elmer Gray BRITTANY JACKSON staff reporter Construction also began on the track and soccer fields, and discussions about the future football stadium started over summer. “The track and soccer pitch is obviously well underway,” Roberts said. “That’s not nearly as complex as the football stadium is going to be. There’s not nearly as much design elements that’ll have to go into that.” Roberts said the stadium will be completed early
spring to prepare for track and field’s Wes Kittley Invitational on April 15. Once the fields are set up, construction will move to the demolition of Elmer Gray Stadium. “When we’ll start, well, it’s our intent and hope to start demolition of Elmer Gray sometime in January,” Roberts said. The demolition will displace offices in the stadium, which will move into the athletics offices. At the same time, weekly meetings are in session to discuss the future of the Wildcat
Stadium at Anthony Field, to determine the preferred atmosphere and where offices will be in the structure. “I’ve got a shot here at creating game day traditions that are going to carry us for decades,” he said. “We really want to think deeply about that engagement for students, alumni, people in Abilene and families. What’s game day going to look like?” Roberts said his team will reach out to groups of students over the next year for their opinion of what game day should look like, and incorporate the results into the
Bennett: Construction continues Continued from page 1 for use by the start of this semester. Jess Dowdy, associate professor and assistant chair of engineering and physics, said the extended construction has forced him and other professors to frequently rearrange where classes will be held. “I think it’s very difficult,” he said. “A lot of plans have had to be put on hold, but we’re going to manage.”
The departments will utilize space in the Maker Lab, and use the dean of arts and sciences’ conference room for lab space. After Bennett is complete, Roberts said attention will be directed to the demolition of Walling Lecture Hall and work on the exterior of Foster Science Building. This will include removing the foyer between Foster and Walling, returning to the original design of the building and add-
ing a glass face to the front of the building. Chambers will then be demolished to be replaced with the Halbert-Walling Research Center. After classes move into that building, the interior of Foster will be renovated to transform the building into the Robert R. Onstead Center.
final project. Completion of the stadium relies on its start date, which is dependent on reliable funds. “We are not going to engage in any construction until we have the funds secured to do it, as fundraising continues and funds are coming in, we’re using those as the drivers for the decisions as when the groundbreaking takes place,” Roberts said.
contact Jackson at bkj12a@acu.edu
UPDATES ON CONSTRUCTION Duration Times
Move Out Dates
Science Buildings:
English to Admin Building:
16-18 months
Stadiums: 30-35 months
Completion Times Campus Center: Late September
Bennett Gymnasium: contact Jackson at bkj12a@acu.edu
itzel de Ablba garcia special contributor
Construction teams work on track and soccer fields.
Late September or early October
Winter Break
Psychology to McKenzie: Winter Break
Student Life to Campus Center: Late September
Completed Projects WFF to Nichols Home
Technology Support to Zellner Hall University Marketing to Vanderpool, Vanderpool renovation Wills House Renovation Starbucks Franchise renovation in the library Graduate School to third floor of library
sports
monday 08.25.14
9
Wildcats look to repeat success with seniors daniel zepeda sports director The women’s soccer team will look to rely on a balance of youth and experience for its upcoming season. With a strong core of experienced seniors, along with many fresh faces, the team will hope to find the best combination to match the level of success they found last year. “We’re really excited to be able to step into those leadership roles this season,” said Sarah Schoch, senior midfielder. “We want to be great leaders for this team, both on and off the field.” Seniors Madison Brown, Taylor Brown, Katie Stivers and Schoch will lead this year’s team as they come into this season with three years of varsity ball under their belts. Sophomore Sydney Newton will be in the net, proven to be reliable for the Wildcats and one of the best stoppers in the conference last season. Newton recorded a career high of eight saves in the Wildcats’ season opener against the University of Tulsa, which ACU lost 1-0. The Wildcats lost Andrea Carpenter, one of the jarred schuetze Staff Photographer most decorated players to come through the pro- Senior Defender/Midfielder Katie Stivers moves the ball downfield in a game for the gram, but, with a knowl- Wildcats last season. The team will look to build on their 13-5-1 record from last year. edgeable and skillful group
Wildcat Reign wishes to add more student events hannah null sports reporter After a successful first year of recruiting students to attend ACU athletic events, Wildcat Reign is now looking to become even more of an on campus presence. With new plans and events, the student-led organization is looking to get as many students involved with ACU sports as it can. The organization’s first major event is the Watch Party for the ACU football game against Georgia State which will air at 6 p.m. Aug. 27 on ESPNU. The event will begin at 5 p.m. in Gym D of the Recreation and Wellness Center. Students are welcome to mingle and eat food provided by Buffalo Wild Wings as they watch the football team start their season.
Bryan Maier, sophomore mathematics education major from St. Louis, is one of the founders of Wildcat Reign. He and other members have spent most of the summer planning events for students to get involved in ACU athletics. “We are working on making the game experience better from beginning to end,” Maier said. “Tailgates, working on getting better music, more giveaways and actively going out and recruiting people who want to change the culture here.” Wildcat Reign is looking to start these changes primarily with the incoming freshman class since they have yet to be a part of the student section at ACU. After talking to returning students, members of the organization agreed on the importance of starting with the younger class.
deanna romero chief Photographer
Wildcat Reign cheers athletes on in Moody Coliseum.
To add to their efforts for the new year, Wildcat Reign will be a visible part of the athletic program for the first time. They will sell shirts that will be adopted as the student-section shirt. The shirt design can be found on their Twitter account (@ACUWildcatReign) and will be available to the public in time for football season. Wildcat Reign has had a brief existence at ACU but has already had a positive effect on athletics. The organization has helped bring students to more athletic events, including the men’s and women’s basketball games that were aired on ESPN3. For sophomore Trey Jackson, getting involved with Wildcat Reign was a no-brainer. “I got involved in Wildcat Reign after the football game in Frisco last year when ACU played Tarleton State,” said Jackson, sophomore graphic design major from North Richland Hills. “Bryan Maier and I had already been thinking of some ways to make the athletic atmosphere better for students, so after the game, Bryan asked me if I wanted to get on board officially.” In an effort to bring athletic pride back to the student body, Wildcat Reign has collaborated with several individuals, including different coaches on campus, Director of Broadcast and Sales Grant Boone and Associate Director of Athletics of Operations
Mosley: Resignation leads to Waco from page 1 2.74 when he began to 3.0 at the time of his resignation. He was recently recognized by Dr. Gary McCaleb, vice president of the university, for his 10 years as athletic director. “The thing I’ll look back most on and ref lect on is the relationships,” Mosley said. “What was extremely special to me and my family was getting to come back here, where I got my first start, and have the opportunity to learn and grow with amazing people around me everyday.” With Mosley at the helm, the university has earned 10 NCAA Div. II national championships, 20 Div. II regional championships and 46 Lone Star Conference championships. Mosley also helped bring women’s soccer to ACU, as the team had their inaugural season in 2007, in which they finished 8-11-1 in the Lone
Star Conference. In May 2008, he was honored with the AllAmerican Football Foundation’s General Robert Neyland Award as the Athletics Director of the Year for the NCAA Southwest Region. Two years later, Mosley was the recipient of the Under Armour Div. II West Region Athletic Director of the Year. “Dr. (Royce) Money, Dr. McCaleb, Dr. (Phil) Schubert and many others have helped me tremendously during my time here,” Mosley said. “They’ve all understood the importance of athletics for a university and have helped me in giving ACU the best athletic programs that we can.” As a student-athlete, Mosley was one of the most dominant basketball players the program has ever seen. He concluded his career in 1999 as the 11th-leading scorer and eighth-leading rebounder in school history. His se-
“
We feel that God is just calling us to a different place in life and we’re happy with where we’ve been.”
jared mosley athletic director acu athletics
nior year, he helped lead ACU to the Div. II South Central Region championship game. Many of his accolades as an athlete included first team GTE academic allAmerica, first team NCAA all-South Central Region by the NABC, second team all-region by DaktronicsCoSIDA, LSC South Division MVP, and first team academic all-LSC.
contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edu
Cory Driskill. Wildcat Reign plans on turning more students into fans of Wildcat Nation by recruiting new members in seek of change. “We want ACU to have the best student section in the Southland Conference, and, as Julie Goodenough said at the Welcome Week pep rally, ‘we want a Division I student section,’” Jackson said. contact Null at hln12a@acu.edu
of seniors, the team is looking to continue the excellence it found last season. “Every day we are looking to get better,” Schoch said. “Playing in the Southland is not easy in any way, it takes a lot of effort and work, but we have the drive and the players to succeed.” The program will also welcome nine freshmen to the team, whose greatest challenge will be finding their place and role in securing the success of the team. “They’ve had great personalities and have been great to be around as we’ve prepared for this season,” Schoch said. “It’s been awesome getting to know each one of their games and what their strengths and weaknesses are.” New faces can lead to more of a learning curve, but head coach Casey Wilson looks at it as an advantage. “We want to continue to open up our options and have different avenues in all aspects of the game,” Wilson said. “We don’t want just two scorers or just a few defenders, we want depth. We’ve been building on that year by year, and it gives us an edge.” With a mixture of new and old talent, the team has a promising future.
“It’s a great feeling knowing you have experience out there and knowing that these girls can see things and adjust and help their teammates adjust to in-game situations,” Wilson said. Perhaps the biggest change this year’s soccer team faces is playing their home games off-campus. Recent renovation to the university has caused the team’s temporary move to Shotwell. “The main issue is the turf, it’s very different playing on grass to going to turf,” Wilson said. “The turf at Shotwell is relatively newer and is better to use than most. If it was eight to 10 years old, it might be too tough to use.” In the coaches’ preseason poll, ACU was predicted to repeat another fourth-place finish in the conference. Wilson enters his eighth year as head coach. He has a lifetime record of 85-46-9 and helped lead the Wildcats to a strong bounce-back season in which they finished 13-51 – much improved from their 8-10-1 record in 2012.
contact zepeda at djz11a@acu.edua
sports
Monday 8.25.14
Teams welcome new head coaches conference helps,” Bibler hannah little said. “I’m able to help them sports producer understand what the expectations are for a Division 1I Sports teams added new program to win and be sucfaces to their coaching staff cessful in the conference this year as teams take on and national level.” their second year at the Bibler will not only bring NCAA Div. I level. The vol- experience to the table for leyball and golf programs experienced the biggest changes, taking on new head coaches for the 2014 season. Jason Bibler, the new head volleyball coach, is coming from UTA where bibler shaw he worked under longtime head coach Diane Seymour. Bibler helped Seymour lead the Wildcats, but he will the team to a 19-15 overall bring familiarity with how record and 10-8 record in the program has been run the Sun Belt Conference in and the key players that the 2013 season. ACU has. Bibler said bringing exBefore his experience perience from UTA is a ma- at UTA, Bibler was the asjor benefit as he takes the sistant coach at ACU from helm at ACU. 2010-2012 where he worked “I think having differ- under former head coach ent expectations in terms Kellen Mock. Prior to ACU, of being gone for a little bit Bibler was a graduate assisand learning from a differ- tant coach at Angelo State ent program and a different for two years. Before that,
he was a three-year head coach at Air Academy High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado. “I just really love the school,” Bibler said. “It’s good to be back in Abilene. I’m just really blessed and thankful, it’s really exciting to be back here.” The ACU golf program has also hired a new head coach to lead the team. Former coach Mike Campbell, who coached for 11 seasons, is being replaced by Tom Shaw. Shaw brings quite the resume and experience to ACU, including seven years as a professional golfer and a yearlong assistant coaching job at the University of South Carolina. He was then hired as the head coach at Tulane, where he spent six seasons leading the team. Shaw’s most recent college-coaching job was at Vanderbilt University from June 2006 through June 2012, followed by a job at College Golf Game Plan be-
fore being hired by ACU. Shaw said he is excited to be at ACU and is already preparing the program for the future. “You can have the best golfer in the world, but if he doesn’t buy into what Abilene Christian is about then that player is never going to achieve what they’re capable of,” Shaw said. “Its about finding a great player, but also a great student and person, somebody who is really going to flourish in this Christian environment.” Shaw’s has high expectations are for his players and will encourage them to be the best players they can be. “I will expect us to work like champions and to act like champions,” Shaw said. “You cannot become a champion or meet your goal if you don’t have the work ethic that involves. It’s got to start with how you practice, how you conduct yourself and how you think of yourself.”
The soccer program also hired Sheena Scott over the summer as an assistant coach, but she recently decided to move to California with her family. For football, Scott Carey will be the new offensive line coach and Cody Moore will be the new defensive line coach. For men’s basketball, Solomon Bozeman has been hired as an assistant coach. Kyle Felan has taken an assistant coaching position for the women’s basketball team. Ashley Reeves will join the women’s softball team as an assistant coach under her father-in-law, head coach Bobby Reeves. For baseball, Brad Flanders has been hired as the new pitching coach and assistant recruiting coordinator along with Sky Valenzuela, who will be the new volunteer assistant coach. contact little at hll12a@acu.edu
BAKER BACKS MCKENZIE Former QB returns to prep successor collin wieder sports editor ACU football entered last season without four-year starting quarterback Mitchell Gale, leaving a question as to who could fill his shoes. Such a question does not leave most football teams overly confident, but redshirt senior John David Baker gave the Wildcats the answer they needed. Compiling 40 touchdowns in 11 games last year, Baker put together a solid offensive season and showed that first-year starters can successfully lead a team. Since then, Baker has been hired as a graduate assistant in the offseason, hoping to groom his successor. Baker will pass the torch to redshirt sophomore Parker McKenzie. McKenzie enters this season with little experience, having only played in five games and attempted only three passes last season. Baker hopes to take McKenzie under his wing much like Gale did with him. “When I played, I was fortunate to have Mitchell. He was like my mentor,” Baker said. “I don’t play anymore, but I still have the opportunity to do that for Parker.” One difference for McKenzie is that he won’t have an experienced offense around him, whereas Baker entered last season with three returning receivers, an experienced running back and a strong offensive line. The offense does, however, bring back all three tight ends from last season, and hometown hero Herschel Sims will fill in at running back after sitting out his transfer season. “I was fortunate enough to have guys that had been playing here for a long time,” Baker said. “Parker is coming into a little bit different situation. Offensively, a lot
sports reporter The Wildcats’ soccer team could not secure a win in its first game of the season, as it fell to the University of Tulsa, 1-0, in Oklahoma. ACU could not hold off a barrage of shots on goal and a relentless offensive attack by the Golden Hurricane. Sophomore goalkeeper Sydney Newton recorded a career high of eight saves during the game, beating her record of seven in last year’s home victory against Houston Baptist. The lone, deciding goal came in the 54th minute after forwards Lauren King and Madison Smith teamed up to put the ball in the back of the net past Newton. The Golden Hurricane would finish the game with an impressive 15 shots on goal, testing the en-
standings football Standings
Team
Div.
ACU UCA HBU Lamar MSU Nicholls St. NSU SELA SFA UIW SHSU
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Ovrl 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1
Div. 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Ovrl 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1 0-1 0-1 0-1
soccer Standings
Team NSU SELA SFA Lamar MSU UCA TAMU-CC Nicholls St SHSU ACU UIW HBU
volleyball Standings
Team
Div.
ACU UCA HBU Lamar MSU NO Nicholls St. NSU SELA SFA SHSU TAMU-CC UIW
0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Ovrl 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Who’s Hot Sophomore Sydney Newton played one of her best games as an newton ACU Wildcat on Friday night. The Wildcats’ starting goalkeeper registered a career high eight saves in the Wildcats’ 1-0 loss to Tulsa.
briefings The football teams game against Georgia State on Wednesday is the second game of the national collegiate football season.
Austin kilcullin Staff Photographer
Sophomore quarterback Parker McKenzie discusses the gameplan with graduate assistant and former ACU quarterback John David Baker. McKenzie looks to repeat the success the Wildcats had last year with Baker under center. of new faces, but they are talented.” McKenzie may not have the experience, but he came to ACU with an impressive resume. He was a record-setting quarterback at Smithson Valley High School and started three years, setting the school record for career passing yards (4,679) and
career total yards (4,962). Smithson Valley went 24-7 during McKenzie’s time at the helm, proof of past success that seems promising for the upcoming season. McKenzie redshirted his freshman year as Baker backed up senior Mitchell Gale during the 2012 season. The following season, McK-
enzie surpassed redshirt sophomore Malcolm Ruben as backup to Baker. In spring of 2014, he officially won the quarterback battle and took over as starter for the season. The team and their quarterback will be tested early on as they face two FBS teams in Georgia State and
Troy, as well as FCS playoff team Northern Arizona. “It’s going to be a great eye-opener for us,” McKenzie said. “It’s going to be our first Southland year. We just really need to step up.” contact wieder at cpw11a@acu.edu
Newton saves career high in loss Victoria Rodriguez
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durance of Newton and the ‘Cats’ defensive line from the opening whistle. While the ‘Cats battled at the defensive end of the field, the offensive line struggled to infiltrate the Hurricane’s tough defense. Freshman Maria Gomez got the Wildcats’ first shot on goal off in the 41st minute and her attempt was followed by two more made by sophomore Natalie Throneberry in the final five minutes of regulation. The late shots didn’t bring ACU a late victory, but were still proof of the high energy the ‘Cats maintained throughout the game. “I think after playing Tulsa we got a really good gauge of where we are at already,” said senior forward Taylor Brown. “I have really high expectations from us because we have the personnel.” Brown is playing in her
fourth and final season with the ‘Cats and sees as much promise for the team as newcomer Baylee Mitchell. “Even though we didn’t get the result we wanted, it was a good way to start effort-wise,” said freshman forward Mitchell. “Every player worked hard for each other throughout the game and I think moving forward it was a game to learn from.” Brown and Mitchell believe in the team’s ability to move forward with positive attitudes and have high hopes for the rest of the season. Tulsa’s tough program tested the Wildcats at both ends of the field, but the challenge was well-received and the message was loud and clear. “It was a really good game and experience for us that will really fire us up for the rest of the season.” Brown said, reflecting the
ACU and Stretch Internet have partnered to stream more athletic events. All home football, men’s and women’s basketball games in addition to select baseball, soccer, softball and volleyball games will be viewable. Seven new members will be inducted into the ACU Sports Hall of Fame in October. Women’s basketball star Melanie Carter and men’s track and field great Mark Witherspoon highlight the list of inductees. Be sure to follow @OptimistSports on Twitter for more stories and the latest ACU sports news coverage.
Upcoming Football kicks off their first season of Southland Conference play against Georgia State at 6 p.m. in Atlanta, Georgia on Wednesday. Soccer will take on Wayland Baptist University at 4 p.m. in Abilene at HardinSimmons University on Friday.
jarred schuetze Staff Photographer
Volleyball is scheduled to play their first game of the season against their next two home games Baylor University at 7 against the University of Texas at El Paso and Way- p.m. in Waco on Friday. It will be the first of land Baptist University. three games in Waco over the weekend.
The Wildcats couldn’t overcome Tulsa’s offensive pressure, as ACU fell 1-0 in the season opener. rest of the team’s optimism and determination. The ‘Cats’ plan is to push forward with this game as a lesson to learn from rather than just a loss on the board. The team will focus on the rest of the season and, more specifically,
contact rodriguezat vjr10a@acu.edu