acuoptimist.com
Optimist the
Spring Swing, page 12
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Vol. 99, No. 56
1 section, 12 pages
GRADUATION
Graduates to celebrate spring commencement Mark Smith
Managing Editor
It’s that time of year again. The semester’s ending, students are packing up and moving back home, and the seniors finally reach the ultimate goal of this four-year long journey: graduation. The two commencement ceremonies will take place May 14 in Moody
Coliseum. This year, 470 undergraduate students will walk across the stage in Moody to accept their diplomas, a small decrease from the 517 undergrads last year. The first ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. for the graduates of the College of Biblical Studies, Business Administration, Education and Human Services, and Patty Hanks Shelton
School of Nursing. The second ceremony, for the College of Arts and Sciences graduates, will start at 3 p.m. “I’ve really been looking forward to going out and really living outside of college life,” said Doug Timmons, who will receive his degree on Saturday in Information Systems.
honor awards Honor Man Wesley Flach
Honor Woman Linda Bailey
Trustees Award Sarvagya Sharma Remington Tyler Thornton Laura Kay Acuff Angela Stornello
B. Sherrod Scholarship Samuel Palomares Brent Bailey Melanie Wheeler Sara Elise Bunch
Dean Adams Achievement Award Sebastian Karlsson Jessica Schell Stacy Bryan
see CEREMONY page 7
Facing the Future
HONORS
Honors college selects dean Laura Gasvoda
Contributing Reporter
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Graduates of the 2010 December Commencement in Moody Coliseum wait to receive their diplomas from the newly-appointed president, Dr. Phil Schubert.
STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION
SA finalizes three chief officer positions The Students’ Association finalized its 201112 cabinet last week, with the selection of its chief financial officer, chief development officer and chief financial officer. Rebecca Dial will serve as CDO, Heath Bracken will serve as CFO and Helga Sierra will serve as CCO. SA Executive President Connor Best, junior political science major from Sacramento, Calif., said there were 16 total applicants for the three positions. Though there were not strict qualifications, Best and other officers interviewed applicants with questions regarding personality. “We wanted to see how they work in different settings,” Best said. “We want people we can trust, people that will do a good job.” Dial, junior political science major from
Hannah Barnes, Editor-in-Chief Lexington, S.C., said she looks forward to to help SA get its name out. working with the SA team. “This past year I’ve been working with the “I’m excited that I get to work with other Office for Multicultural Enrichment as a meofficers and help them get dia specialist,” Sierra said. “I was able to work involved with other student with different multicultural groups in the adgroups and help the student vertising and public relations area. This posibody,” Dial said. tion allows me to use the things I’ve learned Bracken, sophomore mar- as a job. It’s more fulfilling.” keting major from Salado, said Sierra said her perspective as an internahis prior experience in SA will tional student would be useful to SA. help him in his new position. “I think I bring a different perspective afBest “I really enjoy it; I’m a financ- ter working with multicultural groups,” Siing and marketing major, so it’s what I deal erra said. “Being an international student, it with,” Bracken said. “Through the classes I’ve comes naturally to me. It’s something that taken and being involved in SA financial com- could benefit SA.” mittee, I’ve seen this is something I enjoy.” Helga Sierra, junior management major contact Barnes at hab07a@acu.edu from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, said she is ready
Dr. Stephen Johnson, associate professor of preaching and Director of Contextual Education at ACU, will serve as the new dean of the Honors College, concluding a semester-long search. Faculty, staff and students participated in the search process and submitted their recommendation to the Office of the Provost on April 20. An undisclosed number of applications for the position were narrowed to four final candidates, including two candidates from ACU and two from outside the Abilene community. “Dr. Johnson is an experienced and highly successful professor,” Jeanine Varner, provost, said. “He is a remarkably creative individual who will provide inspirational leadership for the Honors College.” Dr. Wendell Willis, professor of Bible and Honors Studies, served as chair of the faculty search committee, and Charles Mattis, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and associate professor of biology, served as the dean on the committee. Each of the four finalists spent a day on campus interviewing with both faculty and student search see HONORS page 10
CONSTRUCTION
Rec. Center construction to finish by fall Christina Burch Multimedia Editor
Come Aug. 29, the ACU community can expect a new campus focal point: the completed 75,000-square-foot Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center. With the help of up to
200 workers and 18 months of building and renovation, the center will wrap up construction just in time for the return of vacationing students. Zane Dennis, executive director of facilities and campus development, said he is excited for the opening of this
one-of-a-kind building. “It’s going to be phenomenal,” Dennis said. “It will be the new glue for the campus and have that adhesion factor that everyone will congregate to.” Dennis said he expects the city to grant the building a Certificate of Occu-
pancy, which verifies the safety and usability of the structure, by Aug. 15. Crews will have two weeks to move in furniture and install exercise equipment to prepare for the timely opening, Dennis said. see CENTER page 7
website
inside all 2011 graduate and undergraduate names are listed throughout the paper. Take a look inside to find the names of friends and family.
sports The ACU men’s track and field team took home their 18th consecutive Lone Star Conference championship Sunday.
pages 2-8
page 12
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Work on the Royce and Pam Student Recreation Center will continue throughout the summer.
weather video ACU quarterback Mitchell Gale prepares for the 2011 football season by throwing trick shots around campus.
Abilene Christian University
Wed.
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Campus Wednesday, May 11, 2011
11
Day
calendar & events
Wednesday
Final exams
12
Thursday
Final exams
6:30 p.m. Square dance workshop at Wagon Wheel
5 p.m. Western Heritage ArtWalk in downtown Abilene 6:30 p.m. Square dance workshop at Wagon Wheel 7 p.m. Julie Dieltz vocal recital
13
Friday
Final exams
14
Softball regionals 3 p.m. Graduation rehearsal for morning commencement for the colleges of Biblical Studies, Business Administration, Education and Human Services and Nursing 4 p.m. Graduation rehearsal for afternoon commencement for the College of Arts and Sciences
Saturday
Softball regionals 10:30 a.m. Morning line up for commencement 11 a.m. Morning commencement ceremony 12 p.m. Residence halls close
COLLEGE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES
Meredith Leigh Platt Vocational Missions Summa Cum Laude Midland
Bible, Missions and Ministry
Justin Tyler Prince Missions Magna Cum Laude Helotes
Christopher Kenneth Abernethy Youth and Family Ministry Magna Cum Laude Raleigh, N.C. Brent Parker Bailey Biblical Text Summa Cum Laude Kingwood John Carl Bishop Youth and Family Ministry Wichita Falls Stephen Chris Black Christian Ministry Trophy Club Jennefer Esther Chabrier Worship Ministry San Antonio Rebekah Ellen Childers Biblical Text Summa Cum Laude Abilene Trevor Adam Cochlin Biblical Text Magna Cum Laude Belton Wesley Flach Biblical Text Summa Cum Laude Duncanville Brandon Tyler Fleet Youth and Family Ministry Magna Cum Laude Tyler
Jessica Nicole Schell Biblical Text and Youth and Family Ministry Summa Cum Laude Willow Park Aaron Arnold Shaver Vocational Missions Magna Cum Laude Tyler Arielle Corinne Shepard Youth and Family Ministry Magna Cum Laude San Antonio Ian Smith Composite Interdisciplinary Waco Brett Alan Stewart Youth and Family Ministry Cum Laude Abilene James Kipp Swinney Biblical Text Magna Cum Laude Austin Lyndsey Jo Womack Youth and Family Ministry Longview Samuel Green Wright Christian Ministry Magna Cum Laude Parker, Colo.
Daniel R. Grenier Youth and Family Ministry Cum Laude Wellington, Colo.
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Abigail Grace Hill Youth and Family Ministry Richardson
Accounting and Finance
Levi Davis Mawhirter Youth and Family Ministry Cum Laude Waco, Texas
Michael David Aguilar Finance Bulverde
Anna Leda Moser Ministry to Children and Families Summa Cum Laude Dallas Nathaniel Gerard Otten Youth and Family Ministry Santa Clara, Calif.
Braden Baker Finance Plano Jeffry Jordan Bankes Finance Fort Worth Jeffrey D. Bartosh Accounting and Finance Magna Cum Laude Garland
Karl Alexander Bein Finance and Marketing Abilene Steven Lee Booker Accounting Houston Dayton Ray Borger Finance Amarillo Jenni Lea Burks Accounting and Finance Summa Cum Laude Weatherford Luke Davis Finance San Antonio Jessica Lauren Ellison Accounting Van Joshua Evans Finance and Information Systems Houston April Nicole Gutierrez Accounting El Paso Bryanna Clarice Harder Accounting La Vernia Rachel Marie Hulburt Finance Midland
The Optimist maintains this calendar for the ACU community to keep track of local social, academic and service opportunities. Groups may send announcements directly to optimist@jmcnetwork.com. To ensure an item will appear on time, the announcement should be sent at least 10 days in advance. The Optimist may edit items for space and style. Corrections and clarifications of published news articles will be printed on this page in a timely manner.
Chapel Checkup 73 00
Credited Chapels to date
Credited Chapels remaining
2:30 p.m. Afternoon line up for commencement 3 p.m. Afternoon commencement ceremony
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Chandler Edward Schmidt Finance San Antonio
Sean Paul Cagle Management Forney
Rachel Annette Lightfoot Management Cedar Park
Hayden Leigh Scruggs Accounting and Finance Abilene
Steven Raymond Camillucci Management Penryn, Calif.
John P. Liscano Management Hereford
Paige Elise Shackelford Accounting and Finance Dallas
Elizabeth Cervantes Management Dallas
Patrick Thomas Lowe Management Abilene
Christopher Jin Shim Finance Atlanta, Ga.
Chase Douglas Churchill Management Abilene
Mario Manuel Marin Management Pampa, Texas
Jason Simmons Accounting Magna Cum Laude Garland, Texas
Caroline Elise Conwell Management Cum Laude Atlanta, Ga.
Hailey Nicole Mueck Marketing Cum Laude Robinson
Jaclyn Kristine Walker Finance Abilene
Bree Anna Craig Marketing Arlington
Jonathan David Murata Marketing San Antonio
Kimberly Gale White Finance and Management Magna Cum Laude Midland
Grant M. Davis Management Midland
Bradley Joseph Neathery Marketing Coppel
Lacy Lea Dillingham Management Tomball
Obinna Kingsley Ononobi Management Mesquite
Mark-John Eberhardt Management Abilene
Aaron Walter Parker Information Systems Sunnyvale
Matthew James Eibel Management Grapevine
Bret Alan Pinson Management Abilene
Miguel Antonio Gonzalez, Jr. Marketing Dallas
Sharlotte Reneé Potter Marketing Abilene
Oriana Gabriela Gonzalez Marketing Cum Laude League City
Ryan B. Randolph Management Cedar Hill
Raymond Walter Wilkinson Finance Summa Cum Laude Abilene Tyler Alan Williams Accounting and Finance Austin Wai Kit Wu Accounting and Finance Magna Cum Laude Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Management Sciences
Matthew A. James Accounting and Finance North Palm Beach, Fla.
Staci Elise Adams Marketing Cum Laude Wimberley
Ryder M. Jensen Finance Abilene
Breanna Claire Anderson Marketing Keller
Bryan Philip Joiner Accounting and Finance Nashville, Tenn.
Aaron Andrew Information Systems Amarillo
Kristin Summer Lee Finance Plano
James Alan Barr Management Abilene
Patrick Clayton Riley Lewis Accounting Abilene
Kenneth Charles Bindel Marketing Arlington
Andrew Isaiah McDowell Accounting Raytown, Miss.
Ryan Thomas Blalock Management Tyler
Jon Reed Pratt Accounting Kerrville
Bret Bochsler Management Seattle, Wash.
John Tyler Rickard Finance Larkspur, Colo.
Cyril Gérard Bouniol Management LaLoubère, France
Kylah JeTonne Riddle Finance Dimmitt
Jason D. Burrell Management Fort Worth
Jim Guinn Management Graham Michael D. Halbert Management Colleyville
Steven R. Rizzotto Marketing Sugar Land Bryston J. Robinson Management San Antonio
Justin Hall Management Edmond, Okla.
Luke Kirk Roefer Management Cum Laude Round Rock
Samuel Clark Harrell Management Ennis
Romain Alix Rybicki Marketing Montelimar, France
John Luther Hawk Management Clyde
Ramon Lamelle Sparks Management Raytown, Miss.
Austin Thomas January Marketing Rockdale
Bryan Ray Stanley Management Carrollton
Rachel Marie Kinnaman Management Abilene
Lauren Stevens Management Cum Laude Allen
Christiana Rose Kotyk Information Systems Flower Mound Aaron Bradford Lee Management Katy Charles Levitte Marketing Magna Cum Laude Couchey, France
Anna Grace Stuteville Marketing Abilene Alyson Lynne Thomas Management Arcadia, Calif. Douglas M. Timmons Information Systems Merkel
May 11, 2011
CAMPUS NEWS
Page 3
Page 4
GRADUATION
May 11, 2011
GRADUATION
May 11, 2011 Ryan Kenneth Trumpfheller Marketing Southlake
Morgan Palmer Davis Information Technology Frisco
Sky Richard Kenji Valenzuela Management Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Cody M. Duncum Information Technology Decatur
Hollis Jefferson Warr Marketing Magna Cum Laude Abilene
Brittany Rae Ellen Kight Information Technology Cum Laude Corpus Christi
Erin Michelle Warren Management Duncanville
Jason Mar Computer Science Magna Cum Laude Fort Worth
Jeremy Gerard Watts Management Oak Cliff Rachel Elyssa Webb Marketing Beaumont Lauren Michelle White Management Midland Justin Thomas Williams Management La Marque Aryanne Chantel Young Management San Diego, Calif. Brady Randall Young Management Brady Grant Andrew Zeller Marketing Abilene Yingting Zhuang Management Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
School of Information Technology and Computing Jordan Josiah Brown Information Technology Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Nathanael McConnell Computer Science Spring Kendall Edison McQueary Information Technology Cum Laude Brownwood Tyler Wade Nolen Information Technology Flower Mound Seth Darryl Poplaski Information Technology Pittsfield, Mass. Thomas R. Prince Computer Science Round Rock Gerardo Luis Rodriguez, Jr. Information Technology Zapata Clayton Robert Selby Information Technology Abilene Sergii V. Shvets Information Technology Magna Cum Laude Zaporozhye, Ukraine Daniel D. Tomkins Computer Science and Mathematics Summa Cum Laude College Station Wilson Garrett Williams Information Technology Waco
Tomas Chance Zartman Information Technology Watauga
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN SERVICES Communication Sciences and Disorders Caroline Louise Baczkowski The Colony Krista Lyn Barnett Stephenville Alyssa Nicole Bowyer Cum Laude Little Rock, Ark. Erin Elisabeth Brown San Antonio Sara Elise Beckett Bunch Magna Cum Laude Sugar Land Kendall Paige Cooper Communication Disorders Bedford Hayley Michelle Hargesheimer Midland Tiffany Higginbotham Abilene Rebecca Chase Hopkins Cum Laude Edmond, Okla. Hillary Brooke Jenkins Magna Cum Laude Burleson Jenny Rene Jones Mesquite Kinsey Claren Logan Huntsville Sarah Ilene Lollar Clyde Cristi Nicole Maldonado Ozona, Texas
Justin Tyler Maldonado Magna Cum Laude Ozona Whitney Diane Merritt Abilene Leslie Denae Record Magna Cum Laude College Station Chelsea Elissa Reitz Magna Cum Laude Houston Michelle Lynn Reno Magna Cum Laude Peoria, Ill. Katie Roberson Summa Cum Laude Abilene Dara J’na Rodriguez Abilene
Page 5 Jordan Tyler Hanson Exercise Science Cum Laude Mililani, Hawaii Robbie Elizabeth Jordan Harris Exercise Science Fort Worth Jordana Chisholm Haught Nutrition San Antonio Marco Antonio Jimenez Exercise Science Midland Julie Anna Kelley Exercise Science Amarillo Jennifer Lynn Kulp Physical Education Orange, Calif.
Kellie Caroline Sitton Abilene
David Travis Latz Exercise and Sport Science Tomball
Exercise Science and Health
Lydia McAnulty Exercise Science Summa Cum Laude
Candace L. Banks Exercise Science and Exercise and Sport Science Cum Laude Stafford Tiffany Brooke Clay Exercise Science Dalhart, Texas Allison Laine Curbo Exercise Science Magna Cum Laude Hillsboro Dorann Dickson Exercise Science White Oak Natalie Nicole Friend Nutrition Magna Cum Laude Tulsa, Okla. Erin Beth Fudge Exercise Science Caddo Mills
Belmont, Mass. Esteban McBride Exercise Science Cuenca, Ecuador, South America Tredrick Lafon Moore Nutrition Denton Sarah Beth Prowell Nutrition Summa Cum Laude Weatherford Shayli Anne Reed Exercise Science Friona Caytlin Rhea Rose Exercise Science Cum Laude Stephenville Kylie Amber Sneed Exercise Science Mansfield Alesia Anne Souder Exercise Science Magna Cum Laude Arlington
Opinion
Page 6
May 11, 2011
COLUMN
Student recollects life lessons learned at ACU Little Linda
right hand. I didn’t know what to expect on that By Linda Bailey first day of kindergarten, Taylor Elementary, Au- but I was nervous. Until gust 1994. I walked up the I walked into the classsidewalk to my kindergar- room, saw my best friend ten classroom. My parents Allison White and started gluing macaroni onto walked on construction paper. either side Abilene Christian Uniof me. My versity, August 2007. I backpack walked up the stairs in hung on my Gardner Hall. My parents small shoulwalked on either side of ders and me. My backpack hung I carried Bailey on my teenage shoulmy Mickey Mouse lunch box in my ders and I carried my cell
The Funny Funnies
By Morgan Davis
phone in my right hand. I didn’t know what to expect on my first day as a college student, but I was nervous. Until I saw my roommate, Emily Hood and we started checking out the guys moving us into our room. When I think back on the last 17 years of school, I don’t dwell on the tests, the projects or the presentations. Of course, I did learn a thing or two in the classroom; I know proper AP style, how to write an
inverted pyramid lede and how to defend accusations of libel. But the biggest lessons learned during my four years at ACU came from relationships. They came out of late night Taco Bueno trips with Emily Hood and Angela Stornello, early morning runs with Lizzy Spano, a trip to Oxford with 16 fellow JMC majors and Spring Break Campaigns to Boston and Chicago. They came through shindigs at Cair Pairavel,
midnight breakfasts at the Villa and my three-person lifegroup at Schlotzsky’s. They came when I was laughing uncontrollably at Lawson Soward’s jokes, reminiscing on Trevor Cochlin’s porch, and working long hours with Optimist staff members and advisers. I learned the most meaningful lessons through relationships, not textbooks. And the hardest tests didn’t required Scantrons – they required faith and perseverance.
And that comforts me when I think about the next stage of life, because I’ll no longer use textbooks or Scantrons, and my parents aren’t walking right beside me anymore. I’m setting off into the big world with a passion for journalism. And the knowledge from a few good friends, and the ability to make more wherever I go. contact Bailey at
ljb07a@acu.edu
COLUMN
Sister offers final farewell advice Conscientious Conjecture By Laura Acuff
Graduation looms, and after four years of Optimist service, I have one more column to write. There still are stories untold, anecdotes unused and limericks u n p u b lished, but this is my Acuff last chance to shove my views onto the ACU populous. This one should be special. During my time at ACU, I’ve accumulated plenty of mentors to thank, friends to hug, weekly coffee dates to commemorate and Corner-
ours commissioned me upon my high school graduation, “May you live to prove he is more precious than life.” Remember that you never have to worry about filling my shoes. Your Keds are way cuter than mine, anyway. Always speak your mind; just be careful how you phrase it. There’s still a country song for everything you’re going through, and there’s Akon for everything else. I love you, I’m proud of you, Your sister
so remember to keep that a priority and trust your friends to understand. And as marvelous as ACU is, you never owe the university anything beyond the balance of your student loans. No one will or can understand your dream like you will, so choose a path and pursue your calling with your whole being, never looking back. Amidst all the career and extracurricular choices you’ll make in the coming years, don’t forget that your faith remains most important. Invite God to walk with you through the next six semesters, and live for him with joyful, wild abandon. As a good friend of
stone freshmen to adore. But on my last soapbox, there’s really only one person I’d like to address: my little sister. Dear Jennifer, Forgive me for abusing this public forum, but I think everyone should know exactly how awesome you are. In the last several years, I’ve watched you grow into an accomplished, beautiful and godly young woman. I got to see you navigate gracefully through your first year of college, collecting a host of wonderful friends and wisely discerning the adult you want to become outside the umbrella of our upbringing. You’re here for school,
contact Acuff at
lka06a@acu.edu
COLUMN
Graduation does not end the best years of life Self-Examination By Ryan Self
It’s the end of the world. At least it is if you believe all the billboards announcing May 21 as Judgment Day. Even if you are not moved to a state of panic from the incredibly convincing billboards Self
(which appear to be more of an ill-disguised publicity campaign for Family Radio), mid-May still can seem like the end of the world for college students who are about to enter into the adult world. Graduation marks a farewell to four (five for some) of the most formative years of one’s life. During my four years at ACU I was able to surround myself with some of the most endearing, godly and
wise people I will ever meet, both inside and outside the classroom. But most of all, I now am blessed to have earned what 93 percent of the world’s population has not been so lucky to achieve – a college degree. The times in between Welcome Week as a freshman, when I knew almost no one and was scared I wouldn’t make any friends, to the final week of school, marked by laughter, hugs and
good memories with more friends than I could ever imagine, were some of the best times of my life. But I hope these years are not the best times of my life. I’ve had plenty of conversations with adults who act as if college was the highlight of their existence and I think that’s a little sad. Surely life doesn’t peak at age 22. Surely marriage, finally finding that dream job, buying your first house,
to leave a place where there are so many fond memories. But if there is one thing I’ve learned during my time in college it is that God is not a passive observer of my life, and I shouldn’t be either. He is always walking alongside me. Remembering that, graduation certainly doesn’t appear to be the end of the world.
having children, entering retirement and many other life experiences won’t pale in comparison to living on ramen noodles and working on class projects until 3 in the morning. I choose to believe the best years of life are ahead rather than behind me. Post-graduation does appear daunting to many of us who still are looking for jobs in an uncertain economy. It’s always hard
contact Self at
rcs06g@acu.edu
COLUMN
College offers enjoyment despite disappointments Rounding the Bases By Brandon Tripp
After deciding to come to ACU in the spring semester of my senior year, I was excited to embark on the journey known as higher education (aka college). During my freshman year Tripp there were wonderful memories from first west, Freshman Follies and intramurals. Then
during the spring semester, an announcement was made that all incoming freshman would be given iPhones or iPods with their enrollment at ACU. Those of us who already were freshman quickly found out that we, however, would not be receiving any of these iPhones in what began a series of crushing blows to the graduating class of May 2011. After learning that we would be missing out on iPhones because we had the misfortune of being born
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. Address letters to: ACU Box 27892 Abilene, TX 79699 E-mail letters to: optimist@acu.edu
one year too early or were too ambitious as juniors in high school and graduated a year early, we again were messed with when we heard that the junior class, the class that got the iPhones first, were getting upgrades to the new iPhone 4. Then we were told of wonderful fantastic news: We would be getting our own mobile devices to use during our senior year. They turned out to be iPod touches, which, subsequently, most of us sold for gas money.
And if the iPhones were not bad enough, we heard about plans last spring about the reconstruction of Gibson into the Pam and Royce Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center. Once all the particulars got out, we once again were hit with the hard news that we would not get to enjoy the benefits of this new state-ofthe-art facility with incredible features all over the place and the fountain of youth in the middle. Not to mention the rock climb-
Optimist the
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ing wall, aerobics classrooms and new courts. Just when we thought we couldn’t be beaten down any lower, AT&T announced a $1.8 million donation to build a new Learning Studio with podcast rooms, video equipment and software galore. By the time completion was finished though, we had but just a few short months to use this awesome facility before it was ripped away from us. Throughout our time at ACU, the May 2011 graduating class has been dis-
appointed and left out of some of the coolest things that ACU has to offer. Not to mention we were also the last group of ACU students to have to endure the Bean prior to the great renovation of 2008. Despite being let down numerous times by the cruel hand of fate, I guess I enjoyed most of my time here as well. Maybe I will find a free iPhone lying on the street to make up for it. contact Tripp at
bjt07a@acu.edu
editorial & management board Hannah Barnes
Marissa Ferguson
Christina Burch
Editor in Chief
Online Editor
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Cade White
Managing Editor
Opinions Page Editor
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Christianna Lewis
Ben Miller
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advertising office (325) 674-2463
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FROM THE FRONT
May 11, 2011
Page 7
CONSTRUCTION
Center: Construction to finish by fall semester Continued from page 1
‘‘ ’’
“Our society today looks so much at promoting health, and I think that’s what this facility helps us do,” Dennis said. State-of-the-art exercise equipment will fill its two stories, including a full track, elevated to the second floor. Two pools, one for recreation and one for lap swimming, will be included, as well as numerous exercise and group fitness rooms. In addition, renovation of the 39,000-square-foot Gibson Health and P.E. Center will be completed, allowing students to utilize the space again. Dr. Jeff Arrington, associate vice president for student life, said the university plans
Our society today looks so much at promoting health, and I think that’s what this facility helps us do. ZANE DENIS // executive director of facilities and campus development
to utilize the grand opening to outline the unique vision for the center. “We really believe in an integrated concept of wellness,” Arrington said. “We want the center to provide for both exercise and activity science needs as well as social.” Arrington said the university has adopted a theme verse to grace the center. The verse is Mark 12:30, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your
soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” “We really want to honor God with our whole selves,” Arrington said. In addition to physical improvement, the center will provide students with employment opportunities. Over 50 student workers will have managerial and operational responsibilities, Arrington said. “We’ll be funneling the benefits back to students,” Arrington said. “I hope this
will create a large pool of attractive on-campus work positions because it’s going to be a fun place to be.” Brian Devost, executive director of the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center, said he is dedicated to creating high-quality programs in a comfortable and nonintimidating atmosphere. “It will essentially be a place where people will go to further the quality of their lives and prepare themselves for the future,” Devost said. Devost said he hopes the center will enhance and enrich Christian values for the ACU community. “It will be more than a place to just work out,” Devost said. “It’s a place for
GRADUATION
Ceremony: Bennet to speak Continued from page 1
‘‘ ’’
“I’m equipped to tackle my dreams better than when I first came out of high school, and I’m ready to move ahead in life.” Seating for either commencement in Moody Coliseum is not limited or ticketed, but families are advised to arrive early for better seats. Also, the bottom rows of sections A and L will be reserved for those with special needs. Dr. Cole Bennett, associate professor of English, interim chair of the English department, and Director of the Writing Center will be the commencement speaker at both ceremonies.
I’m equipped to tackle my dreams ... and ready to move ahead in life DOUG TIMMONS// Information systems major from Weatherford
Arielle Shepard, youth ministry major from Abilene, will graduate in the 11 a.m. commenecement. “I feel like I have been transitioning out from college life into the community gradually this semester,” Shepard said. “I’m staying in Abilene to work, and I’m excited for this experience in the new stage of life to which the Lord has led me.” Rehearsals will be in Moody during the late afternoon on Friday. Receptions
will follow both commencements, and will be held in the mall area of campus again this year due to construction on the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center. There will be signs to group students by academic departments and colleges, and faculty and administrators will be there to greet graduates and their guests. contact Smith at
mds10a@acu.edu
the campus community to come together mentally, physically and spiritually. It will serve as a reminder that we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves.”
For more information on the progress of the center, visit blogs.acu.edu/srwc. contact Burch at
clb10b@acu.edu
GRADUATION
Page 8
Bayley R. Williams Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Coppell
Christopher R. Simpson Agribusiness Summa Cum Laude Whiting, Maine
Courtney E. Yoder Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Cum Laude Longview
Derek Zimmerman Environmental Science Round Rock, Texas
PATTY HANKS SHELTON SCHOOL OF NURSING Nursing Julia Ann Anderson Nursing Camarillo, Calif. Kristen Estelle Benton Cum Laude Keller DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Julia Mongin keeps her eye on the ball as she serves in the LSC regular season championship hosted at the Eager Tennis Center. Mary Elizabeth Swantek Exercise Science Magna Cum Laude Clarkston, Mich. Tommy Dale Thompson Physical Education Abilene Autumn Elizabeth Whitaker Exercise Science Longview
Rachael Marie Ryan Fort Worth Amanda Michelle Swan Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Krystal Cayla Underwood Magna Cum Laude Bakersfield, Calif. Stephanie Valle San Antonio
Terah B. Williams Nutrition Garland
JoAnna Gabrielle Vallejos Magna Cum Laude Escondido, Calif.
School of Social Work
Courtney K. Wilson Magna Cum Laude Odessa
Amanda Jane Duke Arlington Jordan Renee Johnson Dallas Amanda Christine McAdams Magna Cum Laude Tyle Richard Matthew McCall Cum Laude Austin
Teacher Education Tracy Lauren Baggett Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Katy
Stacy Myra Bryan Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Mesquite
May 11, 2011
Jillian Williams Craft Abilene Brittany Rachelle Dick Tuscola Sarah Elizabeth Dugan Fort Worth
Art and Design James Blasingame Art Magna Cum Laude Mesquite Vanessa Nicole Butler Art Longview Melanie Paige Caskey Art Pfafftown, N.C. Caitlyn Elizabeth Crooms Art Dallas Whitney Breck du Menil Art Cum Laude Merkel Robert Lincoln Eagle Art Abilene
Rebekah Flinn Gil Farmersville
Mallory Ann Espinoza Interior Design Colorado City
Kristen Marie Mackey Magna Cum Laude San Antonio
Jessica Nicole Floe Art Arlington, Wash.
Rachel Phillips Cum Laude Abilene
Tanner Cole Freeman Art Waco
Amanda Leigh Dunford Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Cum Laude Pearland
Heather Diane Richard Rockwal
Britni Golden Art Magna Cum Laude Abilene
Katherine Rose Henderson Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Garland
Brooke E. Silvi Houston
Kelsey Lynne Burgy Interdisciplinary Studies, High School Parker, Colo. Melissa Krystyne Davis Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Sachse
Jessica Nadine Johnson Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Magna Cum Laude Fort Worth Erin Kathleen Morgan Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Summa Cum Laude Abilene Tyler Nicole Neal Interdisciplinary Studies, High School Grapevine Stephanie Allyn Smith Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary La Habra, Calif. Angela Marie Stornello Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Summa Cum Laude Arlington Victoria Leigh Valadez Interdisciplinary Studies, Elementary Magna Cum Laude El Paso
Lyndsi Kathryn Riley Odessa
Carlyse Carolyn Smith Austin Lisa L. Starey San Marcos Lauren Ashlee Sumner Marshall Jessica Dawn Talkington Grapevine Tamrah A. Williams Garland
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Jingwen He Art Cum Laude Guangzhou,Guangdong, China Christopher Ryan Herrington Interior Design Abilene Samantha Brooke Howes Interior Design Longview Natalie Rae Knowles Composite Interdisciplinary Pampa Jessica Marie Lane Interior Design Albuquerque, N.M. Aubree Angel McClure Interior Design Red Oak
Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
English Alexandra Minter Interior Design Dallas
Sarah Elizabeth Christian Animal Science Abilene
Scott Andrew Mise Graphic Design/Advertising Austin
Melanie Shinsky Flatt Animal Science Farmington, N.M. Reese Lindsey Myatt Agribusiness Abernathy Ashley Nicole Simon Animal Science Summa Cum Laude Lockhart
Katy Linda Moore Art Canton Adriana Joyce Planes Art Magna Cum Laude Barcelona, Spain Annika Rose Ringle Art Magna Cum Laude Springdale, Ark.
Katherine Anne Seibert Art Grapevine Matthew Tate Art Arlington Taylor Elizabeth Tucker Interior Design San Antonio Bonni Michelle Wattigney Art Keller, Texas Ashley Nicole Wheeler Pre-Architecture and Interior Design Summa Cum Laude Borger, Texas
Biology Lindsay A. Brooks Biology Cum Laude San Antonio Alicia Kay Clauson Biology Aurora, Ill. Daniel Aaron Cope Biology-Teaching Cum Laude Riesel Wade Thomas Davis Biology Magna Cum Laude Chattanooga, Tenn. Amber Rose Deschamps Biology Cum Laude Liberty Hill Allyson Marie Dunn Biology-Teaching Cum Laude San Antonio Courtney Goodrich Biology Cum Laude Fort Worth Cayla Shay Horton Biology Corpus Christi La’Quondra Nicole King Biology Fayetteville, N.C. Heather Kristine Lowery Biology Midland Shota Maeda Biology Matsudo, Chiba, Japan Karli Layne McCoy Biology San Antonio Tiffany Jean Moore Biology
GRADUATION
May 11, 2011
Undergraduates Continued 2011 The following information was not included in Wednesday’s issue of the Optimist. Add this page behind Page 8. Biology, continued Tiffany Jean Moore Biology Avoca Haley Danielle Phillips Biology Magna Cum Laude Terrell Hannah Elise Rainer Biology-Teaching Lawrenceville, Ga. Jessica Michelle Sloss Biology Amarillo Abigail Rae Sutphen Biology Spring Kyle Ray Thaxton Biology Abilene Benjamin Zane Upton Biology Cum Laude Abilene
Chemistry and Biochemistry Funmilayo O. Adebesin Biochemistry Summa Cum Laude Lagos, Nigeria Abel Eugene Biesman Biochemistry Cum Laude Lake Jackson Abby Celeste Brown Biochemistry Magna Cum Laude Wichita Falls Alexandra Dodds Biochemistry Magna Cum Laude Grand Rapids, Mich. Dylan Davis Gay Biochemistry Cum Laude Austin
J. P. Hennessy Composite Interdisciplinary Magna Cum Laude Framingham, Mass. Evelyn E. Henshaw Communication San Diego, Calif. Shawn M. Lawson Communication Arlington Ryan Lindsey Martin Communication Magna Cum Laude Abilene Maya Ohori Communication Iwaki, Fukushima, Japan Samuel Palomares Communication Elsa Diana Carolina Williams Communication Plano
Composite Interdisciplinary Madeline Eileen Doak Composite Interdisciplinary Sweetwater Lindsey A. Fleming Composite InterdisciplinaryBeamsville, Ontario, Canada Griffin Hall Hess Composite Interdisciplinary Abilene Dela Dede Kouevi Composite Interdisciplinary Dallas
Kathryn Anne Huggins Biochemistry Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Kaitlin Anne Ciani English Sherman Carter Reed DeJarnatt English Magna Cum Laude Jackson, Tenn. Allison Fowler English Magna Cum Laude Amarillo
Jordan R. Lowe Biochemistry and Biology Crowley
Anthony Scott Godfrey English and Political Science Cum Laude Burleson
Bradley Steven McGowan Biochemistry Cum Laude Ontario, Ore.
Sarah Kate Greer English Spring, Texas
Kailey Miller Biochemistry Cum Laude Little Elm
Tanner Carlos Hadfield English Magna Cum Laude Abilene
Jeffrey Paul Morris Biochemistry Magna Cum Laude Richmond
Christina Nicole Johnson English Magna Cum Laude Dallas
Holly Rae Perkins Biochemistry Summa Cum Laude Colorado Springs, Colo.
Emily Loper English Magna Cum Laude Athens
Linley Reneé Riediger Biochemistry Abilene
David McMichael English Summa Cum Laude Abilene Sara Elizabeth Morris English and Art Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Bonnie Rae Sullivan Biochemistry Magna Cum Laude Little Rock, Ark.
Jonathan Mark Sanders English Henderson
Rachel Elizabeth Whittaker Biochemistry Summa Cum Laude Cartersville, Ga.
Julia Suzanne Shedd English Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Amanda Michele Winters Biochemistry Kingwood
Katherine Elizabeth Sinclair English Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Matthew Hale Communication Cum Laude Uvalde
Corey Jon Gillespie Social Studies-Teaching Roscoe Garrison Alexander Hartline History Abilene Braden Lee St. Clair History Lubbock Amelia Louise Wildman History Abilene
Journalism and Mass Communication Laura Kay Acuff Journalism Magna Cum Laude College Station
James Ryan Cantrell Journalism Fort Worth
Aaron Michael Carlile English Magna Cum Laude Colorado Springs
Brianna Joy Bowman Communication Summa Cum Laude Marble Falls
Ryan A. Doudney Social Studies-Teaching Rockwall
English
Laura Ruth Holton Biochemistry Summa Cum Laude Cedar Hill
Kanae Asano Communication Ibaraki, Japan
Devin Janelle Anderson History Summa Cum Laude Kerrville
Brooke Ashley Braddock Advertising/Public Relations Houston
Bailey Anne Brown English Midland
Communication
Laura Kay Acuff History Magna Cum Laude College Station
Stephanie Ann Logan Powers Composite Interdisciplinary Clermont, Fla.
Taylor Anthony Hansard Biochemistry Sherman
Stacy Lea Sanchez Biochemistry Cum Laude Sonora
History
Linda Jeanne Bailey Journalism Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Bethany Anne Bradshaw English Summa Cum Laude Henderson
James Zachary Keeton Biochemistry Bulverde
Sau Chi Tai International Studies Hong Kong S.A.R., China
Joshua N. Morrison Composite Interdisciplinary Abilene
Lindsey Leigh Hannah Biochemistry Summa Cum Laude Tyler
Garrett Stephen Jones Biochemistry Cum Laude Hewitt
Meagan Kathleen Morrow International Studies San Antonio
Cindy Elizabeth Tristan English and Spanish Fort Worth Jessica Leigh Williams English Summa Cum Laude Atlanta, Ga.
Foreign Language Mildred Gonzalez International Studies Methuen, Mass.
Robert Cavender Campbell Mathematics-Teaching Summa Cum Laude Mesquite Brandon J. Coombes Mathematics Magna Cum Laude Fort Worth Sarah Kathleen Gallaway Mathematics-Teaching Abilene Wayne Michael Goodman Mathematics Cum Laude Keller Megan Elizabeth Larson Mathematics-Teaching Summa Cum Laude Austin Ashley Ann Urbanek Mathematics-Teaching Cum Laude Bastrop
Music Julie Ann Dieltz Vocal Performance Sioux Falls, S.D.
Physics Keller Reese Andrews Physics Weatherford Mark Douglas Coley, Jr. Physics Abilene Samuel James Hurley Physics Cum Laude Amarillo Chao Lin Composite Interdisciplinary Guangzhou, China Bradley Stephen Rutherford Physics Missoula, Mont. Sarvagya Sharma Physics and Mathematics Magna Cum Laude New Delhi, India Scott Lawrence Stewart Physics Magna Cum Laude San Antonio Remington Tyler Thornton Physics North Richland Hills
Political Science
Elizabeth Leanani Coffee Advertising/Public Relations Magna Cum Laude San Antonio
Scott Alexander Adrian Political Science Glendale, Calif.
J’Lyn Emerson Advertising/Public Relations Abilene
Colin Alexander Barnard Political Science Magna Cum Laude Washington, D.C.
Christopher Lee Fowler Electronic Media Austin Ashley Felecia Free Advertising/Public Relations Arlington David Mathias Griffith Advertising/Public Relations Saint Louis, Miss. Shelby Holt Advertising/Public Relations North Richland Hills Stephani Hutcheson Advertising/Public Relations Rowlett
Meghan Mychal Clark Political Science Magna Cum Laude Olney Melanie D. Kirkland Political Science Magna Cum Laude Colorado Springs, Colo. Joshua N. Morrison Composite Interdisciplinary Abilene Jessica Lane Mullican Political Science Summa Cum Laude Pflugerville
Page 8a Paula Janette Peterson Olson Applied Studies Abilene Jama Lee McCoy Schlauch Applied Studies Abilene Justin Harold Whiteley Applied Studies Magna Cum Laude Buffalo Gap
Psychology Alison Gail Austin Psychology Summa Cum Laude Abilene Whitney Nicole Bammel Psychology Summa Cum Laude Magnolia Michael Bartholomew Psychology Summa Cum Laude Waller Stephanie Ann Bell Psychology Shalimar, Fla. Demetria Renee Butler Psychology Amarillo Rebekah E. Bynum Psychology Coronado, Calif. Riane Elizabeth Cochran Psychology Summa Cum Laude Cedar Park McKenzie Joy Goad Psychology Summa Cum Laude Carrollton Jason Brian Herrington Psychology Magna Cum Laude Carrollton Rachel E. Jinkerson Psychology Summa Cum Laude Abilene Jordan Lee Johnson Psychology and SociologyCriminal Justice Flower Mound Bonnie Kathryn Kellum Psychology Cum Laude Allen Myriah K. Kemp Psychology Colorado Springs, Colo. Kristen Lewis Psychology Grapevine Jacob Charles Luedecke Psychology San Antonio, Texas Amy Lee McLean Psychology Angleton Jeremy Miller Psychology Houston
Courtney Price Psychology Grand Prairie
Whitney Renee Puckett Advertising/Public Relations Melbourne, Fla.
Cleophas K. Tanui Political Science Kobujoi, Kenya
Robert J. Rogers Electronic Media Houston
Melanie Faye Wheeler Political Science and History Summa Cum Laude Abilene
Ryan Clark Self Advertising/Public Relations Summa Cum Laude Lubbock
Professional and Continuing Education
Savannah Taylor Shelton Advertising/Public Relations Colleyville
Travis Douglas Eason Applied Studies Magna Cum Laude Sioux Falls, S.D.
Carlee Dawn Snyder Advertising/Public Relations Clovis, N.M.
Paulo Gonzales Applied Studies Abilene
Kyla Elise Young Psychology Temple
Lawson West Soward Electronic Media Summa Cum Laude Colleyville
Jay Matthew Hendrick Applied Studies Abilene
Sociology and Family Studies
Jayme D. Hamilton Johnston Applied Studies Magna Cum Laude Clyde
Cameron Dwayne Aspaas Sociology-Criminal Justice Escondido, Calif.
Mathematics Bradley Ray Bryant Mathematics-Teaching Paradise Ryan Thomas Cameron Mathematics Houston
Kyla Fawn Kenyon Applied Studies Artesia, N.M. Rebecca Lana Applied Studies Abilene
Alyssa Renee Matthews Family Studies Overland Park, Kan. Elizabeth Nicole McClellan Family Studies Magna Cum Laude Austin Micah-Jon Manuel McCoy Family Studies Corpus Christi Kirby Nicole McErlane Family Studies Cum Laude Sugar Land Ryan Lee Medley Family Studies Kerrville Travis A. Moore Sociology Fort Worth Michelle Cathorine Nix Family Studies Summa Cum Laude Austin Lindsay Paige Rasbury Family Studies Saint Louis, Miss. Kortney Gene Reeves Family Studies Abilene Tara Joy Shoemaker Family Studies Cum Laude Houston Julie Dawn Simpson Sociology Brownfield Amy Nicole Fagala Smith Family Studies Boerne Megan Rebekah Kay Stephenson Family Studies Longview Chase Ryan Stevens Sociology Magna Cum Laude Fort Worth Robert Tate Stewart Sociology-Criminal Justice Lubbock Royland Tubbs Sociology-Criminal Justice Angleton Lindsay Uhl Family Studies Victoria
Theatre
Katie Suzanne Schmitz Political Science Midkiff
Lucas Christopher Wright Electronic Media Abilene
Martha Liliana Marquez Sociology-Criminal Justice Magna Cum Laude Comanche
Megan Ashley Novelli Psychology The Woodlands
Casey Oliver Advertising/Public Relations Cum Laude Lubbock
Brandon Tripp Journalism Irving
Jennifer Lynn Lewis Family Studies Plano
Candice R. Watson Family Studies Magna Cum Laude Houston
Amanda Marie Paramore Political Science Cum Laude Sugar Land
Betheny A. Jones Applied Studies Grasonville, Md.
Kellye Ann Koonce Family Studies Matagorda
Justin Wayne Mueller Psychology Castro Valley, Calif.
Michael McCully Advertising/Public Relations North Richland Hills
Elizabeth Anne Spano Advertising/Public Relations Magna Cum Laude Canton, Pa.
Jared Luke Hodges Sociology Cum Laude Crowley
Madison Renai Sims Psychology Early Kasey Elyn Smith Psychology Magna Cum Laude Allen Alisha Sneed Composite Interdisciplinary Magna Cum Laude Keller Ashley Kaye Utzman Psychology Dallas Tara Wade Psychology Abilene Sarah Corinne Whitworth Psychology Houston
Krysta Michelle Browning Family Studies Summa Cum Laude Cascais, Portugal Emily Frances Bushnell Family Studies Summa Cum Laude New Braunfels Paula Michelle Crofoot Family Studies Tyler
Amy R. McCarty Applied Studies Summa Cum Laude Austin
Rachel Allison Cunningham Sociology Chantilly, Va.
Mary Wambui Mwaura Applied Studies Nairobi, Kenya
Jacquie Leigh Harbour Family Studies Nacogdoches
Katherine Bailey Theatre Sugar Land Erick S. Carter Theatre Abilene Payton Bellah Jones Theatre Magna Cum Laude Abilene Sebastian Karlsson Theatre Summa Cum Laude Linneryd, Sweden Charlene Zoe Koepf Theatre Concord, Calif. Emily Elizabeth Rankin Theatre Magna Cum Laude Abilene Shelly Kathleen Tarter Theatre Magna Cum Laude Shallowater Laura Christine Wetsel Theatre Magna Cum Laude Fort Worth
GRADUATION
Page 9
Graduates 2011
Jane Hanes Motsinger Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation State Road, N.C.
College of Arts & Sciences
Yolanda Yvette Clark-Perez Organizational and Human Resource Development Houston
Michael Edward Neiberger Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Orlando, Fla.
Communication
Brittney Perkowski Organizational and Human Resource Development Dana Point, Calif.
Domitien Nibizi Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Abilene
Duane Edward Adams Communication Amarillo Kimberly Leigh Aragon Organizational and Human Resource Development Tyler Emerald Cardenas Communication Abilene Barbara Kay Cooper Organizational and Human Resource Development Bartow, Fla. Melissa Paige Daniels Organizational and Human Resource Development Big Spring Lynda J. Dearman Organizational and Human Resource Development DeSoto Nicholas J. Dell Organizational and Human Resource Development Keller Jordan Scott Free Communication Caldwell, Idaho William M. Gadison Organizational and Human Resource Development Pearland Zijian Gong Communication Shihezi, China Candis Rene’ Gould Organizational and Human Resource Development Durnfries, Va. Rong He Communication Siping, China Landon Paul Jenkins Organizational and Human Resource Development Big Spring Corrina Chantal Kyle Organizational and Human Resource Development Fallbrook, Calif. Veronica Alexandra Ortiz Organizational and Human Resource Development Austin Jason Andrew Pang Organizational and Human Resource Development Bellevue, Wash.
Elizabeth A. Schomburg Organizational and Human Resource Development Roscoe, Ill. Jamie Lyn Spires Communication Arlington Jeffrey Wayne Spratlen Organizational and Human Resource Development Abilene Kevin Christopher Washington Communication Sugar Land Angela Wilson Organizational and Human Resource Development Louisville, Ky.
Michael David Murray Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Cherokee
Natalie N. Oldfield Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Toronto, Canada Diana Lea Priest Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Tyler Anna Meg Rama Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Abilene
English Lucas R. Baty Orchard Park, N.Y.
Susan Diann Paschall Clinical Psychology Abilene
Robert Phillip Odle Doctor of Ministry Richmond, Va.
Amanda Marie Passmore Specialist in School Psycholgy New Caney
Nathan Pickard Doctor of Ministry Aurora, Ontario, Canada
Christina Marie Perkins Clinical Psychology Medina, Ohio
Aaron Wayne Walling Doctor of Ministry Katy
Martin Bradley Pittman Counseling Psychology Mineral Wells
David W. Warren Doctor of Ministry Seymour
Meredith Anne Pittman Counseling Psychology Dallas
Graduate School of Theology
Kristin Bell Waco
Michael J. Biesboer Stephenville
Logan R. Bibb Abilene
Benjamin Lee Fike Houston
Lindel Tyler Dodson Houston
Alan Shane Gower Allen
Meredith Hope Gray Abilene
Shawn William Maxwell Edmond, Okla.
Zhou Jiang Shanghai, China
Brandon Michael Monroe Christian Ministry Arlington
Chad Frederick Johnson Plano
Emily Jo Simpson Specialist in School Psycholgy DeSoto Jamie Lynn Wilson Specialist in School Psycholgy Talco, Texas Kenzie Lane Bailey Wilson Specialist in School Psycholgy Katy
College of Biblical Studies Doctor of Ministry
Conflict Resolution
Brian Marc Brown Fort Collins, Colo.
William Michael Banash Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Tigard, Ore.
Daniel Frank Camp Doctor of Ministry Smyma, Tenn.
Huaju Gao Yantai, China
Jason W. Locke Doctor of Ministry Fresno, Calif.
Robert Houston Blackwell Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Longview Joseph Ronald Burch Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Bartlesville, Okla. Annette Lawhon Davis Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Howe Jessie L Davis Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Abilene Rick Gomez, Sr. Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Coventry, Conn. Griffin Ann Gonzalez Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Chickasha, Okla. Lucinda Faye Handshoe Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Round Rock Hilary D. Johnson Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Ridgecrest, Calif. Monte Trevor Lyons Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation San Clemente, Calif.
Erin Nicole Jones Deer Park Jonathan Michael Snyder Alamogordo, N.M.
Psychology Christopher Wayne Carter Specialist in School Psycholgy Flower Mound Landon Kyle Cotton Counseling Psychology Keller Belinda Christine Floyd Clinical Psychology Kaufman Ryan Thomas Gertner Psychology Keller Andrea Denise Haugen Psychology Spring Kala Marie Jacobs Specialist in School Psycholgy Valley Center, Kan. Breana LeNea Jones Clinical Psychology Lenora, Kan. Robert William Kessler Specialist in School Psycholgy Raleigh, N.C. Byron Marc Levi McClure Specialist in School Psycholgy Fort Washington, Md.
May 11, 2011
Stephen Patrick Sargent Houston Gregory Lee Summers Christian Ministry Broken Arrow, Okla.
Christopher Robert Woodrow Arlington Adrian J. Woods History and Theology Austin
College of Business Administration Accounting
Christy Michelle Morgan Arlington Ashley Mae Scheid Orange, Calif. Sean McLean Smith Spring
David Alan Skelton Old Testament Yukon, Okla.
Abby Lin Walla Abilene
Jeanene Pruiett Strickland Carlsbad, N.M.
Caitlin Elise Winegeart Abilene
CAMPUS NEWS
May 11, 2011 XiXi Zhu Guangzhou, China
Anne Kalin Ledbetter Grapevine
Page 10
Susan Patricia Boe Leadership of Learning West Linn, Ore.
LaJena Nicole James Higher Education Dickinson
Amanda Lee Smith Higher Education Wylie
Whitney Elizabeth Loveland Herrington Abilene
Tracey Alan Branch Curriculum and Instruction Vicksburg, Mich.
Lisa Michelle Kail Higher Education Littleton, Colo.
Lisa Marie Smith Leadership of Learning McKinney
Yolanda Balderas Jasso Water Valley
Edward Wayne Brassart, Jr. Higher Education Arlington
Brandie LaRae McElroy Gee Curriculum and Instruction Sweetwater
Kellie Ann Steinmetz Curriculum and Instruction Bailey, Colo.
Linsy Rachel Samuel Oklahoma City, Okla.
Benjamin Zachary Brownlee Higher Education Princeton, W.Va.
Jason Kayne Hooper Leadership of Learning Alto
William Edward Walker Special Education Douglasville, Ga.
Sherry Nell Schmidt Mason
Darla Burgess Bumgardner Leadership of Learning Roswell, Ga.
Sheila Rea Horn Curriculum and Instruction Gonvick, Minn.
Peter John Thomas Wilson Higher Education Ajax, Canada
Laura M. Webb Austin
Christie Ann Burrows Leadership of Learning Houston
Erika Maldonado-Soto Curriculum and Instruction Abilene
School of Social Work
Heather R. Melchor Abilene
Dee Ella Delahoussaye Curriculum and Instruction Sugar Land
Kori Lyn Reimer Malone Special Education Maple Valley, Wash.
Stephanie Michelle Brasell Magnolia
Judith Mendoza-Ortega Midland
Kimberly Hardenburgh Anderson Curriculum and Instruction Coffeeville, Miss.
Sara Michelle Drueke Curriculum and Instruction Lincoln, Neb.
David Brent Moss Leadership of Learning Bethel, Miss.
Rebecca Lee Brooks Colorado Springs, Colo.
Samantha Gonzales Orosco Odessa
Donald Leroy Brothers Breckenridge
Rhonda Lakecha Osby Houston
Jeremy Charles Dunford Houston
Lisa Jean Ayres Special Education Irving
Jessie W Ellerbe Leadership of Learning Santa Anna
Abby Elaine Paul Higher Education Zanesville, Ohio
Katy Elizabeth Bruce Abilene
Vicki L. Searcy Abilene
Suzanne Gatlin Fisher Houston
Ryan Anthony Birch Leadership of Learning Red Deer, Canada
Ronda A. Fike Elston Curriculum and Instruction Burnet
Debbi Kay Orr Peterson Curriculum and Instruction Abilene
Ashlie Aurora Castro Abilene
Stephanie Nicole Trejo Robert Lee
Tamie D. Erratt Higher Education Bryan
Derek E. Pierce Special Education San Antonio
School of Information Technology David Arif Galaz Global IT Leadership Abilene
Katherine Elizabeth Pierce Sharpsville, Ind. Juliana Marie Reguero Colleyville Courtney Dale Whitten Robles Eldorado
Yue Gao Global IT Leadership Shanghai, China Serge Gasore Global IT Leadership Kigali, Rwanda
College of Education and Human Services Communication Sciences and Disorders Elizabeth Carol Carr Searcy, Ark.
Miranda Monica Garcia Colorado City
Graduate Studies in Education
Lauren DeAun Kiser Abilene J.Garpue Lieway Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, Liberia Joseph Lee Lopez Haskell Lisa Marie Marciniak Port Byron, N.Y.
Andrea Marie Havins Onterio, Ore.
ACADEMICS
Honors: Dean to generate new ideas, involvement Continued from page 1
committees, the Honors College staff and the provost. In addition, each candidate made a teaching presentation to a class at ACU. Dr. Joe Stephenson, assistant dean of the Honors College and assistant professor of English and Honors Studies, has served as the interim dean both preceding and following Dr.
Greg Straughn’s term as Honors College Dean. Straughn served as dean for one semester, during the fall of 2010, before accepting a promotion serve as Chair of the Quality Enhancement Program in the Office of the Provost. “We are looking forward to having a new dean to generate both fresh ideas and involvement,” Stephenson said. “We are excited to see what new ideas
for course offerings and co-curricular activities the new dean will bring.” Mary Tomkins, junior psychology major from College Station, said she enjoyed being a part of the search committee. “It is cool to feel like it actually matters what we think,” Tomkins said. “I also feel like I will have more of a chance to build a relationship with the dean now that I’ve had the opportunity to see
GRADUATION
the candidates and talk to them before they become the dean.” Brittany Kight, senior information technology major from Corpus Christi, said she believed the search was conducted better than last year’s search for a dean. Rebecca Dial, junior political science and history major from Lexington, S.C., and Joe Wilbanks, sophomore biochemistry major from Sachse, also
said the search went well, and both said they enjoyed the opportunity to participate. Dial said drive and good ideas would be the most important qualities in a new dean. Wilbanks said he looked for creativity and involvement. “I think the most important qualities of the new dean were a creative approach to their leadership position and a desire
to be a part of the Honors College in every aspect,” Wilbanks said. The Honors College also will look to the new dean to continue to shape its mission to support the recruitment, retention and nurturing of gifted students by providing enhanced academic opportunities, Stephenson said.
contact the Optimist at
jmcnetwork@acu.edu
NEWS
Construction affects parking Former SA president arrested Laura Gasvoda
Contributing Reporter
‘‘ ’’
The ACU Police Department is preparing for Saturday’s commencement ceremony by insuring that students and their families will have access to parking despite the construction near Moody Coliseum. ACU Police Lieutenant H.E. Jenkins does not anticipate graduation resulting in the same parking conundrum that students faced during last week’s UIL track meet. “We will not have the same worries we did during the track meet,” Jenkins said. “There should be enough oncampus parking for everyone because most students will be gone by the graduation.” Jenkins also points to the fact that there are two ceremonies as a control on parking issues. The construction mainly will affect the Campus Center parking lot, Jenkins said. Jenkins encourages
People should just anticipate construction and everything should go over with success H.E. JENKINS // ACU Police Lieutenant
students and their families to park on the west side of campus, in lots along Oliver Jackson Boulevard and Coliseum Way. Two student workers will be stationed on the west side of campus to direct traffic and assist people as they park. Although Jenkins does not anticipate on-campus parking filling up, if it does, guests will be instructed to park along neighboring streets. Handicapped parking will be available in the Teague Special Events Center parking lot. This will be the only parking lot blocked off and reserved for the event. Faculty and students do not need to move vehicles for commencement parking as there
should be plenty of parking available. “This year we are using basically the same concept,” Jenkins said. “People should just anticipate the construction and everything should go over with success.” Haley Buffington, junior interior design major from The Woodlands, says she does not remember having trouble parking at last years’ graduation, but she plans to walk this year. “I do not remember having trouble parking last year,” Buffington said. “But I think I will probably just walk this year just in case.” For more information contact the ACU Police Department at 674-2305. contact Gasvoda at
lag08a @acu.edu
Jeff Craig
Senior Reporter
Former Students’ Association executive president Daniel Paul Watkins was arrested in Virginia last week and charged with stalking and assault. Watkins, who was impeached by SA in spring 2009, is a second-year law student at the University of Virginia. WHSV-TV in Charlottesville, Va., reported Tuesday, that Watkins was taken into custody after a female student at UVA reported having been assaulted by Watkins in February. He has been charged with one count of stalking and one count of assault, according to news reports. Watkins was released on $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in court May 12. Watkins served as SA executive president at ACU in 2008-09. In fall 2008, Watkins, an African American, reported having found a noose in his
chair in the SA offices on Sept. 4, 2008. ACU Police launched an investigation, but made no arrests. In March 2009, the SA Congress voted 255, with two members abstaining, to impeach Watkins on charges of irresponsible leadership, manipulation, disrespect and unethical behavior. None of the impeachment charges were related to the noose incident. To read more about Watkins’ impeachment,
scan here:
To read more about the noose incident, scan here:
contact Craig at
jrc07d@acu.edu
FROM SPORTS
May 11, 2011
TENNIS
Page 11
COLUMN
Match: Both teams ready to play Mavs: Prove to be favorite in West
Continued from page 12
Shaw opened at the Atlantic Regional tournament, trouncing Bluefield State College 5-3. Despite the stiff competition the men will be facing, Desiati said he’s not worried about the road ahead. “We’ve been practicing hard all season long for this,” Desiati said. “I’ll be a little nervous when I get to Florida, but that’s a part of the game of tennis.” Junior Eldad Campbell said that being in the tournament at all speaks volumes to the team’s talent. “The fact that we’re there shows we are among the best in the nation,” Campbell said. “I’m pumped and excited; we’ve put in a lot of hours and are ready to reap the benefits of all of our hard work and commitment.” Desiati said the team won’t be training any differently than they have been throughout the year, as this is what they’ve been preparing for. “We don’t have to do anything different,” Desiati said. “We’ve been preparing all year long. The main thing is mental preparation. That is the key.” The ACU women’s team also breezed through the Lone Star Conference tournament, defeating Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Cameron and Midwestern State University. Like the men, the women lost just one
Continued from page 12
‘‘ ’’
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Freshman tennis player Micah Hermsdorf hits a backhand shot during a match earlier this season.
We really need to focus on preparing mentally. Mental prepartation is key. ALFREDO DESIATI// sophomore tennis player for Abilene Christian
match. In the South Central Regional tournament, a 5-1 win against conference foe Tarleton State at the Teague Special Events Center propelled the Wildcats into the national tournament. The women boast an overall record of 22-7. The women’s tennis team will face off against Mesa State College, who come into the matchup with a record of 23-9. Mesa State is a member
of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. They too lost one match in their conference tournament. Mesa State played against the likes of Colorado State University-Pueblo, Metro State College and University of Nebraska at Kearney. In their regional match Mesa State thumped Winona State University 5-0. That win gives MSU momentum going into
their match against Abilene Christian. The Wildcats have not played Mesa State in the past five years, so familiarity will be lacking. The women’s team lost to Lynn College in their opening match last year at the national tournament. “Tennis is uncertain; you never know what is going to happen,” Campbell said. “You have to take it one step at a time. We are going to be competing against the top in the nation day in, day out. I’m looking forward to playing the first match.” contact Isaacs at
jei08a@acu.edu
TRACK AND FIELD
Streak: ’Cats dominate meet Continued from page 12
‘‘ ’’
Desmond Jackson, Nick Jones, Ramon Sparks and Amos Sang, all seniors, each won two events at the meet. Those four were the same quartet who combined to win the NCAA Men’s Indoor National Championship in March. Jackson scorched the field in both the 100- and 200-meter dash, winning both of the events. He ran the 100 in 10.10 and the 200 in 20.58, both windaided times. “It was great to go out with a bang,” Jackson said. “There were some great teams and talented athletes competing, and to trump them shows the quality of our guys and how all of our hard work is paying off.” Sang, an All-American, won four events at the conference meet last year,
I was thrilled with the results of the meet. It went extremely well.
ROOSEVELT LOFTON // Abilene Christian Head Track and Field Coach
continued his winning ways by winning two more events on Saturday. Sang won the only two events he competed in, the 800-meter race in 1:56.56 and the 1500 meter in 3:58.69. Jones, who is ranked No. 1 discus thrower in the nation, won both the shot put (57-5 1/2) and the discus (189-9) Saturday, giving the Wildcats 20 points as a team. Ramon Sparks, one of the top jumpers in the nation, continued to out-leap his competition Saturday as he won both the triple jump and long jump. Sparks jumped 24-7 1/4 feet in the long jump and 57-5 1/2 in the triple
jump, and Lofton couldn’t be more proud of him. “Ramon continues to impress me. He always has a great work ethic and finds something that he can work on in practice so he can continue his winning ways,” Lofton said. Junior hurdler Kevin Johnson won the 110-meter hurdles in 14.23 seconds while Tyler Fleet threw 190 feet in the hammer throw, which was good for first place. Sophomore Parker Petty won the decathlon, accumulating 6,326 points. The women’s team saw similar success, as they placed first in seven events at the meet.
Alyse Goldsmith won the 5,000-meter and 10,000-meter runs while Chloe Susset won the 1,500 and 3,000 steeplechase. Amanda Ouedraogo continued her winning ways as well, placing first in the triple jump with a leap of 42-5 1/2. Defending discus national champion Paige Newby won the discus with a mark of 156-7. Newby scored in all four throwing events at the meet. Senior Jessica Sloss won the hammer with a throw of 168-5 while Cassie Brooks won the heptathlon after only two weeks of practice in the event. The team now will turn their focus to the NCAA Outdoor National Championship Meet on May 2628 in Turlock, Calif.
MEN’S GOLF
Win: Bouniol ready to repeat Continued from page 12
‘‘ ’’
other teammates have played on the squad. Along with Bouniol and Carpenter, Tyler Sheppard and Trey Sullivan have had success this year. Sheppard has been a key for the ’Cats the past two seasons, while Sullivan took home the LSC Freshman of the Year award after a quality season of play for the Wildcats. Last year, the Wildcats were well represented at nationals as Bouniol took home the title individually as the sole Wildcat there. Due to his regional win, Bouniol got to go to nationals even though ACU as a team did not go. He
I’m looking forward to going back to the course we played well on last semester ALEX CARPENTER // sophomore All-American golfer
made the most of his opportunity giving the Wildcats an individual national championship trophy. The Wildcats are looking to improve upon their somewhat shaky play at nationals following their almost cataclysmic breakdown at the NCAA Division II South Central/Super Regional Tournament last week in Georgetown, Ky. Abilene Christian almost gave up a 16-stroke lead in
the final round of the tournament, but held on to finish in a tie for first with No. 1 Central Oklahoma, sharing the super regional championship crown with the Bronchos. ACU is ranked fifth in the nation and first in the South Central Region, according to ncaa.com. The tournament will be May 17-20. contact Gwin at
agg07a@acu.edu
contact Shake at
bxs09a@acu.edu
in the history of my life with the Rangers in the ciating leaning toward World Series, the Packers D-Wade. This time winning the Super Bowl, around, however, Tyson and, hopefully, the Mavs Chandler provided the as the World Champions emotion and physicality of the National Basketball to make Big D play some Association. big crunch time defense and step up when the situation presents itself. Tripp is a senior JourI get the feeling that nalism/Mass Communithe play Dallas showed cations major from Irin the Los Angeles series ving who has been a part is enough to put them as of the Optimist staff for both the favorites in the three years. He has been a Western Conference as valuable asset to the Opwell as in the NBA finals, timist sports staff during should they be able to his tenure with the pubmake it there. No matter lication. His presence will how much more athletic be missed greatly not only their opponents may be, by the Optimist staff, but if you play with the tough by Abilene Christian Uniplay mentally and physi- versity as well. cally, you are going to win. I certainly hope Dallas can get back to the finals and complete what would contact Tripp at bjt07a@acu.edu be the greatest sports year
Page 12
Standings BASEBALL Team
Div.
UIW 24-9 Tarleton St 23-10 SE OK. St. 23-10 Cameron 22-11 SW OK St. 23-13 TAMU-K 18-15 Angelo St. 19-17 ACU 16-17
Ovrl. 35-15 35-13 30-17 33-14 33-17 24-24 25-23 24-23
SOFTBALL Team
Div.
Ovrl.
ASU UIW WTAMU TWU ACU TSU TAMU-K ENMU
15-6 15-6 14-7 11-10 11-10 10-11 5-16 3-18
42-12 31-23 45-15 30-26 28-27 22-25 24-31 13-41
Briefs n Four
ACU baseball players received Lone Star Conference accolades Friday night at the annual awards banquet. Will Calhoun was named first-team designated hitter. Senior pitcher Zach Sneed and senior outfielder Aaron Oliver were named to the second team while senior Ian Tomkins was named the conference’s Honorable Mention catcher. n Senior
softball pitcher Brittany Rexroat was named to the second team Capital One Adademic All-District roster on Friday for her performance on the softball field and in the classroom. The senior had 11 complete games and two shutouts and finished her academic career with a 3.56 GPA.
Player Profile Amanda Ouedraogo, sophmore from Hautsde-Seine, France, claimed her first conference championship Saturday in the triple jump Ouedraogo with a wind-aided mark of 42-5 1/2. Ouedraogo was the only member of the women’s team to qualify for the NCAA Div. II indoor national meet last March. She set a personal best there with a jump of 41-10, which helped ACU to tie for 22nd place.
Upcoming n The men’s golf team
will compete at the NCAA Division II National Championships in Florence, Ala. on May 17-20. n The men’s and wom-
en’s tennis teams will play in the NCAA Division II National Tournament on May 11 in Altamonte Springs, Fla. The men will play Shaw University, while the women play Mesa State College. n Track
and field will compete at the NCAA Division II outdoor Championship Meet May 26 in Turlock, Calif.
MEN’S GOLF
Sports
May 11, 2011
Golf team anticipates national meet Austin Gwin Sports Director
After a co-championship at regionals, the Wildcat golf team will make the long trip to Florence, Ala. for nationals next week. “It is very special for us all to be in Alabama next week,” senior Cyril Bouniol said. “We have a burning desire to bring a national championship back to ACU.” The last time the pur-
ple and white made the trip to the national meet was 2007 and the regional championship was the first since 1994. During conference tournaments, regional tournaments and national tournaments, Bouniol has been dominant. He won all three last year and led wire-to-wire in the regional last week. “It means so much to me and I am so ready to compete and give everything I
have for this team one last time,” Bouniol added. On the flip side, Alex Carpenter has struggled throughout these tournaments. After 11 regular season wins in the last two years, he has taken only one victory in the three major tournaments for the year – last year’s conference meet. The No. 1 ranked Division II player had his worst tournament of the year at regionals, posting three straight over-par rounds
to finish in the middle of the pack. What Carpenter does have going for him however is that he won on this same course in the Division II Preview Tournament in October. Facing the hardest Div. II competition in the country, Carpenter won the tourney by one stroke. Bouniol was right behind him though, two strokes back in third. “I’m looking forward to going back to the course
we played well on last semester,” Carpenter said. “Everyone is playing well and I believe we have a chance to end this year on a special note.” According to golfstat. com, Bouniol is ranked 6th in the nation giving the Wildcats two players in the top six, something no other team can boast. A key for the Wildcats this year has been the role see WIN page 11
TRACK AND FIELD
‘Fab Four’ strike again Bryson Shake Sports Editor
The ACU men’s track and field team took home their – hold your breath – 18th consecutive Lone Star Conference Championship on Sunday at Tarleton State’s Memorial Stadium while the women’s team finished in second place. The ACU men finished the meet with 223 points, a staggering 57 points in front of second place finisher Tarleton State. The women were 29 points behind first place Angelo State, who have beat the Wildcats for the third consecutive season. “I was thrilled about the results of this meet. It went extremely well for us and I couldn’t be more proud of them,” Head Track and Field Coach Roosevelt Lofton said. “Everyone did their part and what we asked of them, which is a big reason as to why the results were in our favor.” In the championship effort, four ACU men took home two conference championships apiece. see STREAK page 11
STACY ACTON // Contributing Photographer
Amos Sang runs with a group of runners at a cross country meet. Sang is a member of the ACU track and field team and is part of the ‘Fab Four’ who helped the ACU men’s track and field team win their 18th consecutive LSC Championship.
COLUMN
TENNIS
Mavs overcome odds, referees
Rounding the Bases Brandon Tripp
DANIEL GOMEZ // Chief Photographer
Bryan Joiner hits a forehand shot during the LSC Conference Tournament at Eager Tennis Center.
Tennis set for nationals Edward Isaacs
Assistant Sports Editor
The ACU men’s and women’s tennis teams are visiting Altamonte Springs, Fla. for the third consecutive year as they both try to bring home their first national championship. The Wildcats are entering charted waters, though, as this is the men’s fifth straight trip to nationals, and the women’s 16th successive journey to the national tournament. Sophomore Alfredo Desiati, who traveled to Florida last spring, said of
his return, “It helps that I made it to the national tournament last year. I’ve got a view of the level of the players. I also have a feel for the atmosphere.” The men’s road to nationals began with the Lone Star Conference Championship tournament where they easily defeated University of the Incarnate Word and Cameron University. The men lost only one match the whole tournament. These wins advanced them to the South Central Regional tournament where they met Cameron a second time and produced
the same result, a 5-2 win. The Wildcats current record is 19-9. The first opponent for the men’s team is Shaw University. They have a record of 24-1. Their only loss was 5-2 to Longwood University, a school that competes in Division I tennis. Before reaching the national tournament, Shaw beat Saint Augustine’s College, Johnson C. Smith University and Winston-Salem State University in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Championships. see MATCH page 11
After witnessing the classless play of the Lakers during their season-ending series against the Mavericks, I have determined two immutable things. The first is that the National Basketball AssociaTripp tion must do something serious about the flagrant fouls committed by the Lakers during the series. It was not just the hard hits by Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum in game four, but also the Ron Artest foul in game three, which he was rightfully suspended for. While watching game four, I felt the urge to say to my roommates who were watching with me how the NBA should stop games like this because someone will get seriously hurt before the end. Thankfully, that didn’t happen, but the cheap fouls reminded me more
of a game of streetball than anything that should be put on a professional court. Bynum and Odom both should be hit with multiple game suspensions at the beginning of the year next season and serious fines for what could have turned into another Pacers-Pistons type brawl in “Big D.” The second thing that I took away from the series is that the Dallas Mavericks are a championship team. For the first time since I have watched the Mavericks, which amounts to about 15 years, I saw a tough team, and not just from a physical standpoint. When Dallas needed to buckle down in games one and three, they did it; erasing two fourth quarter deficits to overcome the Lakers at home and on the road. In 2006 and 2007, the years no Mavs fan likes to hear about, Dallas caved under pressure; say what you want about the offisee MAVS page 11