Ko Jo Kai and Gamma Sigma Phi chase 3-peats
BY ROMAN RAFFAELI SPORTS REPORTER
Kojies adopt flexible, balanced approach
After winning the previous two years, the women of Ko Jo Kai are looking to win Song on Saturday for the third consecutive year.
In the club’s previous two performances, the acts were themed after Toy Soldiers and Fireworks in 2023 and 2024 respectively.
“I think since ‘23 they’ve just had a renewed sense of ‘we want this,’” said Courtney McGaha, director of student productions and promotions. “Their club traditionally has a passion for Sing Song. In the last couple of years, they’ve shown a lot of enthusiasm and that they really want to win.”
McGaha also said while the club’s enthusiasm is significant, other clubs show the same energy and desire to compete at the same level.
The 2024 act was impressive from beginning to end, having good vocals and costumes throughout while also performing a miniature light show that simulated a firework going off across the stage. This year, the Kojies have
chosen Laci Jackson, senior theatre education major from Grapevine, to direct their Sing Song act.
“I had grown up going to Sing Song since I was a little girl,” Jackson said. “It has always been a dream of mine. I made a bucket list of things I wanted to do at ACU, and one of them was to direct Ko Jo Kai Sing Song. So when I had the opportunity to do it this year, I jumped on it.”
Jackson also said that her parents met at ACU and her whole family were Kojies, which makes directing the act feel like “it’s been a long time coming.”
Jackson also directed a freshman class act when she was a freshman.
“It’s a completely different ballgame this time around,” Jackson said.
Though the club started practicing in early February, Jackson believes it was a week later than most clubs because the Kojies elected to leave a week between new member orientation and the beginning of Sing Song practice.
BY DANIEL CURD
stay sharp’ and win third consecutive Hot off back-to-back Sing Song victories, the men of the fraternity Gamma Sigma Phi will look for their third consecutive win after months of hard work and growth as brothers.
Jaden West, senior finance major from Snyder, will be directing the GSP act this year, following in the footsteps of Mason Hejl, senior management major from Pflugerville, who directed the Willy Wonka-themed act in 2024.
“When I got into GSP, Sing Song was always something I was looking forward to,” West said. “As a young kid around ACU, I always thought it’d be cool to do it one day.”
background, West was more than familiar with music and wanted to use that to his advantage.
“Music is always something I’ve loved; writing, singing, whatever,” West said. “That’s how I knew I wanted to be a director. I ran for it in the fall and it’s been a grind ever since.”
The 2025 GSP Act will tell the story of ice harvesting, something Hejl, the current club president, is excited about.
“People don’t really know what ice harvesters do,” Hejl said. “That’s what makes Sing Song so great. We get to tell stories that are easily understood by the audience.”
When it comes to winning three consecutive years, West appreciates the success of the past but wants to be careful of becoming complacent or too confident.
“It’s definitely harder to learn, but once you have practiced it and have it down, it’s much easier to keep them together,” she said.
Jackson has seen her the-
One piece of the performance that Jackson has continued from the ‘24 act is teaching the choreography and the lyrics at the same time. This is something she does not think most clubs do and saw director M.C. Gunn do well last year.
atre education studies prove to be beneficial in her directing duties so far.
“I think it really does play to my strengths, especially with all my classes on discipline,” Jackson said. “You have to have a good balance of positive reinforcement and being serious because we have to get a job done.”
See 3-PEAT, P. 2
West was a member of the Willy Wonka act in 2024 and said he had a lot of fun getting to know guys while also learning he wanted to lead an act in the future.
“It’s where you get to know a lot of guys in club,” West said. “I had ideas and thoughts of ways I could maybe do it differently or better.”
With a Church of Christ
ACU Gives fundraises for athletics, other student organizations
BY ASHLEY HENDERSON EDITOR IN CHIEF
ACU Gives, the university’s annual 2-day fundraising campaign will take place over 1,906 minutes from April 2930. Donations can be made to a list of organizations and their causes.
While any donation made to the university within the two days counts, Samantha Adkins, executive director of donor relations and annual
giving, said there are 40 designated organizations to spotlight throughout the event.
“We’re spotlighting a couple of bigger programs or scholarships, things that have some things kind of pressing that are coming up or that don’t get to get their name out as often as others,” Adkins said. “We saved about 20 of those spots for our athletics partners, so all of our sports teams get a designation for the day, and then we also invite our campus partners across campus to apply to be a part of the day”
Adkins said in the past, each college was asked to highlight programs, but this year, all groups across campus were allowed to apply. Applications were opened in the fall for about a month and a half before the top 20 were chosen based on whether they align with the university’s values and meet certain requirements.
“We kind of look at, are they mission and vision fo-
cused for the university?” Adkins said. “Are they helping us spread the word of Jesus to the world?”
If the mission aligns, Adkins said they look at whether the donations will be used within 12 months and if there is a level of student involvement such as a student organization that would help promote it.
“We also are looking at things that have a five to $10,000 goal level,” Adkins said. “So they’re not looking to raise $200,000 or a million dollars, they’re looking for small amounts that will really make a difference.”
One of the organizations represented this year, is the Katie Kirby Student Care Fund, which is the student emergency relief fund. Lyndi Felan, dean for retention and student success, said the fund is used to help students be successful on campus and meet student’s needs.
“We pull from this fund to meet the needs of students
that are experiencing food insecurity, loss of a job, needing help, covering a month’s rent, paying to go to counseling,” Felan said. “We buy laptops for students and give them out. We buy bikes for students who live off campus, who don’t have a car. And so the fund is used for various needs.”
Felan said the funding, typically administrated through SOAR, distributes $500 per student during their four years at ACU unless there is extenuating circumstances. Students can reach out to SOAR through soar@acu.edu.
“If we can alleviate the financial barrier that might be preventing them from focusing on schoolwork or assignments or whatever, then that’s what we want to do,” Felan said. “Every other fund goes directly into the department or the program that definitely impacts the student experience, so it is important, but for us, this is something that’s really important to us as it,
you know, directly impacts the student.”
Adkins said the goal is to get as many people involved to encourage meeting the goals of each individual organization and hopefully passing last year’s results of raising almost one million dollars.
“$5 really does make a difference, especially in things like the exceptional Scholarship Fund and the Katie Kirby fund, because these are immediately going to students, and while I can let go of my $5 cup of coffee for the day so that I can make sure a student gets their needs met, because when my $5 combines with all the $5 that different people are giving, it makes a huge difference,” Adkins said.
A kickoff party will be held immediately after chapel on April 29 due to the generosity of a donor. An opportunity to participate in donations or write thank you notes will be available along with a soda bar, outdoor games, a 360 photo booth and more.
“It was super cool,” West said. “I don’t say it to be cocky, but part of it is tough because some of our guys don’t necessarily know what it’s like to lose. We just have to be careful because we can’t get too confident.”
West also said that his message to his guys about
See 3-PEAT, P. 2
A student publication of Abilene Christian University since 1912
BY DANIEL CURD | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER Members of the GSP “Kinsmen on Ice” act perform during Sing Song 2025.
| CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Shelby Chapman, junior communication disorders major from Salem, Oregon, performs in Ko Jo Kai’s Cinderella-themed act.
Gammas looks to ‘Stay on our game,
3-PEAT: Kojies, Gammas stay motivated, focus on present
KJK: After winning the previous two years, the women of Ko Jo Kai will look to win Sing Song for the third consecutive year Saturday.
In the club’s previous two performances, the acts were themed after Toy Soldiers and Fireworks in 2023 and 2024, respectively.
“I think since ‘23 they’ve just had a renewed sense of ‘we want this,’” said Courtney McGaha, director of student productions and promotions. “Their club traditionally has a passion for Sing Song. In the last couple of years, they’ve shown a lot of enthusiasm and that they really want to win.”
McGaha also said while the club’s enthusiasm is significant, other clubs show the same energy and desire to compete at the same level.
The 2024 act was impressive from beginning to end with good vocals and costumes throughout while also performing a miniature light show that simulated a firework going off across the stage.
This year, the Kojies have chosen Laci Jackson, senior theatre education major from Grapevine, to direct their Sing Song act.
“I had grown up going to Sing Song since I was a little girl,” Jackson said. “It has always been a dream of mine. I made a bucket list of things I wanted to do at ACU, and one of them was to direct Ko Jo Kai Sing Song. So when I had the opportunity to do it this year, I jumped on it.”
Jackson also said that her parents met at ACU and her whole family were Kojies, which makes directing the act feel like “it’s been a long time coming.”
Jackson also directed a class act when she was a freshman.
“It’s a completely different ballgame this time around,” Jackson said.
Though the club started practicing in early February, Jackson believes it was a week later than most clubs because the Kojies elected to leave a week between new member orientation and the beginning of Sing Song practice.
One piece of the performance that Jackson has continued from the ‘24 act is teaching the choreography and the lyrics at the same time. This is something she does not think most clubs do and saw director M.C. Gunn do well last year.
“It’s definitely harder to learn, but once you have practiced it and have it down, it’s much easier to keep them together,” she said.
Jackson has seen her theatre education studies prove to be beneficial in her directing duties so far.
“I think it really does play to my strengths, especially with all my classes on discipline,” Jackson said. “You have to have a good balance of positive reinforcement and being serious because we have to get a job done. I think sometimes there’s too much of one and it’s too serious and no one has fun or it’s way too fun and then nothing gets done.”
Jackson said she wants the women in the act to enjoy the experience while working hard and for them to have good memories despite the results.
“Even if we don’t win, I want it to be, ‘Well, I’m still glad I did that. I made some new friends, and I’m proud of what we came up with,’” Jackson said.
Jackson said winning the past two years adds more pressure, especially with clubs wanting to prevent a potential three-peat. As a
result, she adopted a new mindset to direct with.
“It’s something I tell them a lot, I tell them our act is not last year, and it’s not the year before, and it will never be,” Jackson said. “It’s something completely different. And if we just think that we’re going to show up and it’s going to be the same, we’re wrong.”
Jackson looks forward to the show whether the Kojies are able to win their third consecutive Sing Song or not. She does, however, dream of a win.
“It would be just so awesome,” Jackson said. “I think about it all the time. I smile thinking about us getting to stay on that stage and sing our club song.”
CONTINUED
GSP: being humble and not being too confident is simple and keeps them focused on their act, rather than what is going on around them.
“I just tell them to stay sharp and remind them that we can only control what we can control,” West said.
However, West’s background playing sports and working as an announcer on campus has caused one issue with fine arts; there is no defense.
“One thing I don’t like about Sing Song or fine arts is you can’t play defense,” West said. “I have no way of controlling what any of the other acts do. I can only control what we do, so I’ve just been focused on that.” Along with his message
about humility and focus, West has also prayed for the club’s performance despite the result.
“Every night at the end of rehearsal we say a prayer,” West said. “One thing I’ve been saying in that prayer is ‘God, our success does not come from Sing Song. Our glory and our place in this world doesn’t come from winning this competition. It comes from you.’ I think that’s important to remember because as bad as I want to win and as bad as other people want to win, that’s not where our success in this life comes from.”
With Sing Song around the corner, West and the men of GSP have continued to work as they inch closer and closer to the opportunity to harvest their third consecutive win.
Host, hostesses build connections while preparing for upcoming performances
BY CALLIE LEVERETT NEWS REPORTER
As Sing Song weekend dances closer, clubs, classes and production teams work to perfect their acts.
Sing Song is one of ACU’s most cherished traditions. Hosts and hostesses have been a part of the show since the early 60s. They are responsible for entertainment as the upstage is rotating.
Courtney McGaha has been the director of student productions and student promotions since March 2022. In 1957, when Sing Song first began, there was only one, McGaha said.
“He would kind of be there and kind of introduce what’s gonna happen and this is what they’re singing and stuff like that,” McGaha said. “Maybe tell a joke or two.”
The next year, there were two hostesses.
“By the mid-60s, that’s when they kind of started throwing songs at them,” McGaha said. “So, by the late 60s we kind of have the format we do now.”
McGaha said they now have an announcer introduce each act, so the hosts and hostesses can focus on their responsibility of entertaining the crowd.
Auditions for the roles take place in October. The students – ranging from sophomores to seniors –come to the audition with two songs prepared.
“They have to be completely different genres, one has to be slow, one has to be fast,” McGaha said. “Because we want to see their range.”
From there, those invited to callbacks are challenged with brand-new song material and choreography. The final students have a group that blends well together.
As the students prepare for the show days, they commit eight to ten hours each week to rehearsals and private lessons with vocal coaches.
McGaha said she enjoys the process as the group grows closer and creates friendships.
Last year was a rare case: the group was all friends or knew each other. However, this year most of the students did not know each other, McGaha said.
“Seeing them kind of open up and start to be funny, and roast each other in the middle of a rehearsal and stuff,” McGaha said. “It’s just been a really fun time and a really fun process.”
This is why, prior acquaintances or not, McGaha said she encourages anyone to try out.
“They’re all going through this thing together,” McGaha said. “Hearing each other every night and, being each other’s biggest cheerleaders and supporters, it’s really special.”
Host Will Vogelsang, senior finance major from McKinney, did not know any of the other hosts going into auditions this year. Vogelsang said he credits the process to making good friends.
Mary-Claire Gunn, senior kinesiology pre-occupational therapy major from Waco, has been involved in Sing Song acts in the past and is one of the Sing Song Hostesses this year.
Gunn also said the group has grown closer together.
“Besides Ansley and I, none of us really knew each other,” Gunn said.
“That’s been really fun too, just like getting an opportunity to make friends with people that I don’t normally really cross paths with.”
Hostess Ansley Brown is a senior interior design major from Franklin, Tennessee. Brown and Gunn are housemates.
Fun is important for upstage acts and host/hostess acts; however, it is easier to have a good time as a host /hostess because there less competitive aspects, Gunn said.
“It’s just nice that there’s no expectations from anyone,” Gunn said. “We just get to go out there and perform something that we’ve worked really hard on and that we’re proud of.”
Brown said the team is excited for show night.
“There is no outcome that we will be slightly disappointed in,” Brown said.
Sing Song show days are Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at PurplePass.com.
As Sing Song weekend inches closer, the group has their final rehearsals together.
“We’re already pretty ready, so I feel like that will help just solidify what we’ve already done,” Vogelsang said.
Gunn said she feels grateful to be a part of Sing Song this year – especially because her mother was also a Sing Song hostess.
“I just I just feel so blessed and privileged,” Gunn said. “It’s been so much fun. That’s all, we’re just having a great time.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF ACU STUDENT PRODUCTIONS
Ansley Brown, Mary Claire Gunn, Megan Sloane, Will Vogelsang and David Lassiter are the 2025 Sing Song hosts and hostesses.
BY DANIEL CURD
The Women of Ko Jo Kai perform in Sing Song 2024.
BY SARAH EUNYOUNG-THOMPSON | PHOTOGRAPHER Gamma Sigma Phi closes its Sing Song 2024 act.
Adele, Whisenhunt campaign for SGA executive leadership
BY MAKAYLA
The Student Government Association conducted elections for executive leadership from Tuesday to Thursday, with Tamil Adele and Zeke Whisenhunt running unopposed for president and vice president.
SGA had organized a Q&A session March 19, for the new executive branch candidates. The session was live-streamed on SGA’s Instagram and open to all students to join and ask questions.
Adele, junior criminal justice major from Midland, and Whisenhunt, junior engineering major from Greenbrier, Arkansas, discussed their campaign and answered questions about their goals. Adele and Whisenhunt say their campaign focuses on “assistance, intentionality and dedication.”
Adele has been part of SGA since her freshman year and served on the executive board this year as director of student engagement and recruitment.
“The reason I’ve stuck with SGA for this long is because of what I know SGA can do,” she said. “We don’t want students to feel neglected, which is something that happens rather often. I would like to be in this leadership role to make sure that administration sees that the students care about ACU just as much as they do.” Whisenhunt has served as part of the Senate for the past two years. He said he hopes to use this leadership role to make improvements across campus.
“This past year, my eyes have been opened to things that can be improved,” he said. “Everything can be im-
BY LESLIE CARRIGAN
Nu Kappa Psi finished this year’s pledge season for three new members with its annual probate on Friday in Beauchamp Amphitheater to present its most recent pledges to the university.
Omicron Xi Chi held its own Probate earlier this month. Probate is a performance in which new club memers dance and chant to explain who the club is to the rest of campus, and it is a common tradition among primarily black fraternities and sororities, said Marquis Wortham, Noble King’s squire sergeant.
“It’s not just a show, it’s us showing what true brotherhood is,” said Wortham, junior kinesiology major from Desoto. “It is a display of a family and it’s them being accepted into our brotherhood.”
Nissi Ndewere, sophomore marketing major from South Africa, was not originally planning on pledging but after watching last year’s probate decided he wanted to be a part of NKP.
“I attended the 2024 probate, and I learned
proved always. And so that’s what I’ve kind of taken on this year, and so I want to continue that throughout next year.”
Adele and Whisenhunt’s Campaign Plans
Despite running unopposed, Adele and Whisenhunt said they are approaching their campaign with full dedication. As candidates for student body president and vice president, they have developed a platform focused on campus safety, financial responsibility and student engagement.
Adele said she wants to improve campus lighting to enhance student safety. She also hopes to promote energy conservation by evaluating energy usage, particularly with large electronic displays and stadium
lights, to ensure resources are used efficiently.
Adele and Whisenhunt also want to address concerns about the speed bumps around campus, particularly
those that could cause damage to smaller cars.
“What happens, especially with the ones over by the stadium, is people just drive around them,” Whisenhunt
said. “And so that’s way more dangerous because you have people going faster and going around.”
Although they are running unopposed, Adele and Whisenhunt said they take their campaign seriously.
“This is something that we’re not taking lightly,” Adele said. “We didn’t wake up one morning and decide to do it. It’s something that has been in the works for a long time.”
As the election has approached, Adele and Whisenhunt encouraged students to stay engaged and reach out with their concerns.
“Our goal is to assist the student body,” Adele said. “So we are here to help, and we’re very excited to do so.”
To learn more about Adele and Whisenhunt’s campaign visit their Instagram @tamilandzekeforthepeople
Transition of Leadership
Josh Springer, SGA president, advised incoming leaders to focus on serving the student body rather than pursuing personal agendas.
“This is a role that has a lot less to do with you than you would like it to,” said Springer, senior financial management major from Helotes. “You have to listen to what the students want.”
Athena Triantopoulos, SGA vice president, encouraged candidates to step out of their comfort zones and focus on team building.
“I’ve learned that you are going to always have people who are going to uplift you if you give that back,” said Triantopoulos, senior advertising and public relations major from Las Vegas.
Springer said legislation passed by the Senate carries over into the next administration, ensuring that progress continues.
The transition of power culminates in an event known as the “Changing of the Guard,” marking the official handover of responsibilities between outgoing and incoming SGA administrations.
During the event, the President’s Bible, a tradition dating back to 1995, is passed down, along with other items such as the Senate mallet. The event typically includes speeches, superlatives and awards such as “Senator of the Year.”
“I encourage people to use their student body president as a resource,” Springer said. “I would look at student government as a financial investment from the university and the voice of students.”
about Nu Kappa Psi, and I was like Wow this is something I want to be a part of,” said Ndewere, “I hope that the same way my mind was changed, through Probate people
understand the depth of Nu Kappa Psi.”
Probate allows the community to learn more about NKP and allows the pledges to be publicly recognized for their work and
preparation leading up to initiation.
“I hope they realize the hard work and everything they went through to be a Noble King,” said Wortham, “I hope they
feel accepted by one of our brothers in NKP.”
Ndewere said performing at the event was a highlight of his college career.
“I loved the energy and
the crowd,” said Ndewere, “and seeing all of the practice that went into it finally come to fruition. Personally, it was the best night of my college experience so far.”
BY MAKAYLA CLAYTON | NEWS REPORTER
Zeke Whisenhunt and Tamil Adele at SGA’s senate meeting dicussing their campaign plans.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ADELE AND WHISTENHUNT CAMPAIGN SGA executive canidates, Zeke Whisenhunt and Tamil Adele’s campaign photo.
BY JOHN STAI | PHOTOGRAPHER Members of Nu Kappa Psi perform in
2025 PREDICTIONS
It’s that time of year! The Optimist Sing Song paper has arrived and the staff has their predictions made. Hal Hoots has been relieved of his predicting duties due to leaving the winning act off of the leaderboard entirely in 2024, which has put additional pressure on the staff. From the depths of the sea to the highest white-capped mountain, the 2025 picks have been delivered. Editor’s note: Staff members participating in a Sing Song act did not partake in the prediction process for their respective divisions.
MEN’S VOICES
WOMEN’S VOICES MIXED VOICES
Galaxy is reaching for the stars this year with a performance worthy of first place. Fighting to the top with their great set, strong vocals, innovative costumes, creative lyrics and entertaining storyline. However, it will take work to overcome their rough costume changes and sloppy choreography.
GSP leaves viewers frozen in awe with their great singing, cool set and polished choreography. In the end, however, they struggle because of the lack of storytelling and no wow factor.
Frater Sodalis stormed in this year as vikings of Valhalla. All around it is a solid act whether it is vocals, set design, costumes or choreography, but in the end the act is unable to stand out and make an impression like the ones above it.
The women of Ko Jo Kai transport you to the world of Cinderella with their detailed costumes and set that push the boundaries of innovation. The creativity meets the standard the club has set in previous years while also flowing seamlessly through the story of Cinderella. An all around magical experience from the women of Ko Jo Kai.
Siggies are making a splash with bright props, good diction and a few other Siggie secrets for the viewer to enjoy. These fun surprises provide an interesting challenge that often results in a more disorganized act which puts Sigma Theta Chi in second.
It’s Delta Theta’s 100th year and they are here to remind us of that. The brightly colored set and costumes and strong vocals quickly pull Delta Theta’s act to the top of the women’s. Despite this the club’s simple costume and set design keep the club from landing in first or second. 1.
Despite Hansel and Gretel’s questionable abilities when it comes to directions, they ran straight to first this year. Their quick, clean choreography,
1. GALAXY
2. GAMMA SIGMA PHI
3. FRATER SODALIS
KO JO KAI
SIGMA THETA CHI
DELTA THETA
FRESHMAN PURPLE
Look So Grimm, All Breadcrumbs Lead To Abilene
I love Lucy and I love this act. The whimsical lyrics and hilarious choreography
SOPHOMORES & JUNIORS The Desilu Comedy Hour
LEARNING TO WALK AGAIN
McCabe-Gossett continues journey back from neurological disorder
BY BRYLIE MAHAR NEWSLETTER EDITOR
In the fall of 2024, Jasmine McCabe-Gossett began noticing mild neuropathy in her hands and feet. It quickly progressed to “one of the most profound cases of neuropathy” her doctor had seen, she said.
After begging the doctors to refer her to a neurologist, EMG Nerve Conduction Testing was completed, and the results were so alarming that doctors told her she needed to be admitted to the hospital immediately. That possibly saved her life.
After over a month of declining health function, McCabe-Gossett was originally diagnosed with a rare neurological condition called Guillain-Barré syndrome. By November of last year, doctors found she was facing Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy – a condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering around the nerves, called myelin. This makes it harder for the nerves to send messages to the muscles, which can cause weakness, numbness and tingling, especially in the arms and legs.
Since then, McCabe-Gossett, professional development and internship director in the College of Business Administration, has been learning how to walk again. She has been completing physical therapy at Hendrick Health System and said the process has been frustrating.
“I’m relearning to both walk and write and use my hands,” McCabe-Gossett said. “I’m a high achiever, so not being able to simply ‘put my mind to it’ and achieve has been hard for me, but I also think it’s OK for me to be forced to slow down.”
Grateful for Support
Through this process, McCabe-Gossett has been uplifted by the support of her family.
“My husband and I have a 4-year-old so I am motivated to be able to play outside with my family again,” McCabe-Gossett said. “I want to return to the active lifestyle we had before, filled with hiking, bike riding and traveling.”
Jasmine McCabe-Gosett
Faculty,
BY LINDSEY BLASINGAME SPORTS EDITOR
As part of Women’s History Month, three women were honored at a Women in Leadership luncheon on March 20. The three women are Dr. Susan Lewis, provost and vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Ramonica Scott, associate professor and director for the Master of Athletic Training Program and Naoemi Gire, executive director of University Access Programs. Lewis, a 1992 graduate
receives hugs and kisses from her husband, Regi, and her son, Luca.
McCabe-Gossett’s community has overflowed with support and love, she said. Her church community, family, friends and students have offered many forms of assistance, including childcare, cleaning and meals. McCabe-Gossett said she is grateful to work for an employer like ACU that has been flexible with her by allowing her to work remotely
during this time.
“Students have offered to babysit my child, friends have shown up with meals or to offer helping to clean my home and I’ve received hundreds of handwritten letters from people all over the globe,” McCabe-Gossett said. “Yes, it has been challenging adjusting from a relatively independent lifestyle to one that requires assistance for virtually everything because I am wheel-
chair-bound and cannot drive now, but I know without my community, my life would look much different.”
An Example for Others
Even during this process, McCabe-Gossett has maintained and developed a close relationship with her students and coworkers. Soon after McCabe-Gossett was hired at ACU, she envisioned a team of professional development
student workers. Each would specialize in their respective fields of study.
Laney Aguilar, junior accounting and information systems major from San Antonio, joined McCabe-Gossett’s team as a student worker in the fall of 2023.
“Jasmine has inspired me by being more than a mentor – she has been a guiding force in my life,” Aguilar said. “Through her resilience and unwavering faith, she
of the university, said she is thankful for the opportunity to work in a Christian environment alongside those who have served her.
“This award is a reflection of the many people who have mentored, supported, and inspired me along the way,” Lewis said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve at a university that values both excellence and Christ-centered leadership.”
Scott said she is thankful for the award and thinks it is very important to elevate women to various positions
of leadership in many aspects of life.
“Although any person can advance an organization,” Scott said. “Women in large leadership roles help to keep the variety in the progress of an organization, which can lead to more innovative solutions. They serve as role models and they open doors for future generations of women.”
Gire, a 2014 graduate of the university, said that even though Lewis, Scott and herself all serve different areas of life on campus, they
all have similar goals.
“I think between the three of us, the work that we do isn’t for the purpose of recognition,” Gire said. “It’s more about our passion to kind of break down barriers and empower students.”
Lewis said she hopes she can be a motivation for other women looking to enter leadership roles.
“I hope that my leadership encourages other women to pursue their calling with confidence,” she said. “Knowing their voices and vision are essential to shaping the future of any organization they lead.”
has shown me the power of faith and perseverance in the face of challenges. Despite navigating a new normal, she continues to lead with strength and determination. Her example has not only shaped my personal and professional growth but has also changed the course of my life and many others.”
McCabe-Gossett is a wife and mother living with lupus, CIDP, rheumatoid arthritis and Raynaud’s
“I’m a high achiever, so
not being able to simply ‘put my mind to it’ and achieve has been hard for me.”
JASMINE McCABE-GOSSETT
syndrome, and she has documented her experience through a blog called Jasmine’s CaringBridge and an Instagram page named @limitlessjasmine
“Initially I was desperate to find resources, as well as other people who were living with the same condition I was,” McCabe-Gossett said. “Although I found many people who had been diagnosed years prior, I wasn’t able to find anyone who had shared their health journey from diagnosis on. I wanted to chronicle my journey so that I could look back and see my progress, but also so that I could serve as a resource for others that may walk through this in the future.”
McCabe-Gossett has remained positive through the ups and downs of this experience. She reminds those following along with her on this journey that it is not always the big milestones but the small moments that remind her all progress is something to be proud of.
“Allow the emotions to flow through you,” McCabe-Gossett said. “The Lord is present in every emotion so don’t deny yourself the opportunity to connect with them in this deep, sacred way.”
These women are good examples of how women can balance being a motivation to others while also leading a university.
All three women said they feel deeply honored to receive this recognition. They hope to inspire other women and girls to pursue positions of power and leadership.
“The work that we do is very focused on changing the landscape and breaking down barriers while empowering our students and the people around us,” Gire said.
Four key basketball team members unveil plans to enter NCAA transfer portal
BY HAYDEN DELAND SPORTS REPORTER
Four players on the men’s basketball team have entered the transfer portal since it opened on Monday, searching for a new school to play for next season. Two longtime Wildcats entered their names in the portal – Leonardo Bettiol, junior forward from Roncade, Italy, and Hunter Jack Madden, senior guard from Sydney, Australia. They posted on social media that they intend to enter the portal for their final years of eligibility. Bettiol averaged 9.4 PPG in his three seasons as a Wildcat. Madden played three seasons as a Wildcat, averaging 8.9 PPG. Standout freshman
Dontrez Williams, guard from Sikeston, Missouri, entered the transfer portal after averaging 5.8 PPG, enough to earn a spot on the Western Athletic Conference all-freshman team. After two years at ACU, Nasir Degruy, junior guard from New Orleans, entered the portal as well. Degruy
averaged 3.8 PPG in his time as a Wildcat. Despite those departures, the team posted on its Instagram page Wednesday that several players would return: Quion Williams, Rich Smith, Yaniel Rivera, Christian Alston, Jack Sawyer, Bradyn Hubbard, Cade Hornecker and Ma’Shy Hill. Williams led the team in scoring this season with 13.1 PPG, and Hubbard was third with 10.2 PPG. As of Wednesday Joseph Venzant, senior guard from Midland, has not announced whether he will return to the team or enter the portal. Venzant played in only eight games after a season-ending shoulder injury.
BY BRYLIE MAHAR | NEWSLETTER EDITOR
Jasmine McCabe-Gossett with her husband, Regi Gossett, and their son, Luca.
LEWIS SCOTT GIRE
BY STEVEN INFANTE | PHOTOGRAPHER Dontrez Williams, freshman gaurd from Sikeston, Missouri, dribbles the ball down the court.
Finding the Best Eats in the ‘325’
Each spring, events including Sing Song and graduation bring a campus full of visitors to ACU, and lots of those families and friends spread out to share good meals all over Abilene. To help with that decision about where to eat, students from the JMC 224 Media Writing course also spread out, gathering the following list of culinary possibilities. We avoided chain restaurants, focusing mostly on local experiences. We also skipped a lot of fast pizza and burger options, as well as places known more for their bars than their food.
Blu Barrel Bar & Grill
North
829 N. Judge Ely Blvd. and two others in Abilene
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11a.m.-midnight
Menu: Blu Barrel’s menu consists of a variety of foods. They have salads, different types of fries, wings, burgers, sandwiches, appetizers and some tacos.
On Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. there are options for a weekend brunch that customers can enjoy. A separate menu containing alcoholic beverages is given upon request.
Atmosphere: In the mid afternoon, Blu Barrel is nearly empty with just a few customers. The place gives sports-bar vibes as the room has darker lighting and TVs with channels such as NFL Network and ESPN playing above the bar area and along the walls. It is the perfect place to watch a game with friends while sitting at one of the wooden tables.
Boss’s suggestion for first timers: Stephen Warren, manager of Blu Barrel, said, “Our wings are really good, so are our tacos and pork chops.” Wings start at six for $6.99, tacos start at $8.49, and the pork chops are $13.99.
Boss’s unusual suggestion: Warren said, “Our classic breakfast for our weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays is really good.”
Price: $8.99.
One thing that makes the boss happy: “I enjoy seeing all the different people that come through Blu Barrel,” Warren said. Faith Poelstra
Beehive Restaurant
Location: 442 Cedar St.
Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 11
a.m.-1:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Saturday: 5-10 p.m.
Menu: The menu includes everything from salads and sandwiches to filet mignon and New York strip steak. All dinner entrees come with the choice of french fries, a baked potato or a sweet potato, as well as soup or salad. The Beehive also provides a daily Chef’s Special. In addition to this, there is a prime rib option every Friday and Saturday night and a rack of lamb the second weekend of every month.
Atmosphere: On a Tuesday around 6 p.m., the restaurant bustles with the dinner rush. The decor has Western flair, with distinct notes of the old saloon that used to occupy the building. The lighting is dimmed, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for a date night. The staff is friendly and warm, and the restaurant exudes a cozy, family-like atmosphere.
Boss’s suggestion for first-timers: “For first timers, you’ve gotta try the steak,” said General Manager Scott Harbin. “That’s what we’re known for; our most popular has got to be the filet mignon. It’s the most tender filet you’ll ever have, so if anyone wants to come in and have a good steak, that’s really what we’re known for.” Price: $50-$65 depending on size.
Boss’s unusual suggestion: “I like getting our pulled pork avocado, but instead of pulled pork, I get grilled chicken,” Harbin said. “It’s fantastic!” Price: $18.
One thing that makes the boss happy: “Having folks, when they come in – I know their name, they know my name,” Harbin said. “It’s great to get to know people, and that’s a lot of what we’re about.”
Lila Griffith
Cypress Street Station Location: 158 Cypress St, Abilene, TX 79601
Hours: Monday-Saturday
11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Menu: Cypress Street Station offers two menus, one for lunch and one for dinner, alongside modern appetizers, such as seared scallops, soups and an ahi tuna tostada. Lunch includes a variety of classic wraps, salads, pasta and burgers, while dinner lists a “Land and Sea” category. In addition, several wine/beer/ cocktail and luxury-dessert options are available.
Atmosphere: On a Thursday late afternoon, the restaurant’s atmosphere is fairly relaxed yet still upscale. Without many children in sight, several couples, both young and old, share meals and conversation. Classic brick lines the walls, giving an old-school feel, and large street-lamp-looking bulbs provide a warm glow. Several dark-toned wood tables, chairs and booths stand on carpeted flooring, and unique, multi-colored paintings of city scenes and shops hang above them.
Boss’ suggestion for first-timers: Matthew Fraley-Nowacek, the general manager, recommends the Bayou Florentine. Price: $17.50.
Boss’ unusual suggestion: Fraley-Nowacek said, “Our steaks are phenomenal but often slept on, as we are a scratch kitchen and not a traditional steakhouse. They are amazing, though!” 12 oz New York strip steak, $42. One thing that makes the boss happy: “Hospitality is a lost art that I love returning the focus to in restaurants,” he said. “Valuing the guest and the reality that no matter what occasion brought them through our doors, it is an opportunity to be a blessing and perhaps help create a memory!”
Aubrey Pearce
JoySpot Hot Pot & Grill
Location: 4001 John Knox
Dr.
Hours: Wednesday - Monday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Menu: A wide range of flavourful options, from sizzling hot pots to savory grilled dishes. The menu is designed to cater to all tastes, featuring fresh meats, crisp vegetables and rich broths that let you customize your meal. Each dish is crafted to offer a memorable, satisfying experience.
Atmosphere: On a recent Monday during lunch, the
atmosphere was bustling with energy but still felt cozy and welcoming. The space was filled with a mix of families and friends, some gathering around large tables, while couples enjoyed a more intimate meal. The vibe was casual, with lively chatter and the décor had a warm, inviting feel.
Boss’s suggestion for first-timers: Owner Carol Tran recommends trying the Signature Hot Pot for first-time guests. It’s a well-balanced dish, offering a delicious blend of fresh meats, seafood and vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Price: $22.99.
Boss’s unusual suggestion: Tran suggests trying the Miso Grilled Fish for a unique twist, offering a light and savory flavor profile that’s different from the usual fare. Price: $18.50.
One thing that makes the boss happy: “When customers tell me they feel like family when they leave, it means we’ve succeeded in creating an experience that goes beyond just the food,” Tran said.
Lianne Campos
Sunrise Chinese Location : 2701 S 1st St.
Hours : 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Menu : The Sunrise Chinese Restaurant has much to offer, starting with a variety of appetizers including roast pork egg rolls, crab rangoon and fried dumplings. There is also a range of soups including the classic wonton. Next, a selection of fried rice and lo mein dishes with a choice of protein including chicken, beef and shrimp. Some signature dishes include the sweet & sour chicken, Mongolian beef and General Tso’s.
Atmosphere : Sunrise Chinese restaurant offers a warm and comfortable environment. The atmosphere is clean and a place where guests can relax and enjoy the amazing food that is brought out to them. The restaurant is known for its great service and for creating a great experience.
Boss’s suggestion for first-timers : The boss recommended all first timers to start with an appetizer. These being either the Crab Rangoon or the handmade Dumplings. For the main course “you should have the House Special Lo Mein or Chicken.” There are many other flavors that we offer and they are all good choices.
Boss’s unusual suggestion: Mix sweet and savory flavors – order the honey chicken
lets
come together. One thing that makes the boss happy: “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when receiving their food or when they are leaving the restaurant and saying they will definitely be back for more.” Charlie Clarno
Location: 1333 N 6th St.
Hours: Thursday, 5-11 p.m.; Friday, 5 p.m.,- midnight; Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-midnight; and Wednesday, 5-11 p.m.
Menu: Matera offers a flavorful menu featuring Southern-inspired comfort food. Highlights include appetizers such as boudin balls and gouda bites, hearty burgers and po’boys, and
baskets of fried shrimp and catfish. They also serve brunch and partner with local businesses for special dessert offerings. Atmosphere: With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s ideal for families, friends, or couples seeking a delightful meal.The establishment features both indoor and outdoor seating, including a covered patio area, providing a comfortable dining experience. Guests can enjoy live music during special events, enhancing the vibrant ambiance. The friendly and attentive staff further contributes to a memorable visit. Boss’s suggestion for first-timers: Matera Bar and Grill owner Lindsay Flores recommends first-time visitvors try their signature dishes, such as the OG Cheeseburger ($10), Shrimp Po’Boy ($14) or fried shrimp and catfish baskets ($17-18). These selections showcase the restaurant’s Southern-inspired comfort food and commitment to quality.
Boss’s unusual suggestion: For a unique culinary experience, Flores suggests trying the Chicken-Fried Burnt Brisket Ends. Price: $8.99. One thing that makes the boss happy: Honoring history. The building that the restaurant was originally in was burned down in 2012, and she named the restaurant after the paper company that was once there. Abbye Funderburk
wings with a side of hot & sour soup. This gives you the best of both worlds and
the different flavors
Matera Grill and Catering
BY LESLIE CARRIGAN | MANAGING EDITOR
Blu Barrel Bar and Grill provides vistors a place to watch sports with friends.
Scan for more reviews of restaurants around Abilene.
Russo throws no-hitter to open conference play
BY TYSON WILLIAMS SPORTS REPORTER
Last weekend, Wildcat softball snapped a 6-game losing streak by sweeping Southern Utah University in a 3-game series. ACU hasn’t swept a team since 2023, which was also against SUU.
In the first game, the Wildcats won with a dominating score of 6-0. Lina Russo, junior pitcher from Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, threw a no-hitter, which hasn’t happened at ACU since 2020. Russo struck out three batters and forced 12 ground -
outs. The Wildcats scored four runs in the second inning with two runs scored on a home run by Miranda Lista, senior infielder from Chino Hills, California, and two RBI singles by Emalee Romero, junior infielder from Eastvale, California.
“[Russo] just competes… I’ve put her up against the best in the country and she has thrown some really gutsy games for us,” said Head Coach Jo Koons. Russo’s calmness throughout the game could be from her no-hitter as a sophomore or the perfect game
she threw as a freshman at Ball State University, but she was unaware of this no hitter.
“I didn’t know I had a no hitter till I was at dinner,” said Russo. The second game was a much closer match with a score of 1-0. After allowing a game-opening single, Russo continued her great play, going seven straight to make sure the Thunderbirds couldn’t score. In the second in -
ning, Julianna Martinez, freshman outfielder from Fresno, California, hit a single, sending Audrey Lacina, sophomore utility player from Bentonville, Arkansas, home to take the lead. Russo held down the game with four strikeouts.
SUU had the bases loaded in the fourth, but Lacina made a play on a ground ball to throw home and catch the runner in time for the force out.
In the fifth, Lacina muffed a throw from freshman catcher Catrin Hoffman on an attempt
to catch a runner stealing second base. However, Lacina gathered the ball and launched it home to get out the SUU runner who took off for third. In the top of the 7th, Russo threw back-to-back strikeouts.
In the final game, freshman pitcher Chase Mueller earned her first win of the season, throwing in four innings and allowing only four hits.
Ella Beeman, sophomore pitcher from Lowell, Arkansas, entered to pitch innings five and six, keeping the Thunderbirds
Wes Kittley Invitational
Wildcats finish indoor and begin outdoor season
BY LINDSEY BLASINGAME SPORTS EDITOR
With a full indoor season in the books, the track and field team moved on to the outdoor season by hosting the Wes Kittley Invitational on March 21-22. At the final indoor meet, the Western Athletic Conference Championships in Spokane, Washington, the Wildcats had 12 medal winners in nine events, including the men’s distance medley.
Ja’Dasia Sims
1st W High Jump
Miguel Hall
2nd M 60m Hurdles
Kailey Roskop
3rd W Weight Throw
Cooper Goggans
3rd M 800m
Luize Velmere
3rd W Triple Jump
Sutton Welch
3rd M Weight Throw
Sterling Glenn
2nd W Shot Put
Canaan Fairley 3rd M Heptathlon
Vincent Luffey, Mark Barajas, Landon Gray, JP Trook
3rd M Distance
Medley
Canaan Fairley, junior from San Antonio, placed third in the WAC Championships in the heptathlon, an event that he said takes a lot of focus, but he keeps his focus on one thing.
Fairley is looking to better himself with every meet he participates in, and he is looking forward to the WAC Outdoor Championships due to the intense competition.
“I am blessed to have such fierce competition that pushes me to new levels,” he said. “My goal is to be the best, and to be the best you have to beat the best.”
In the first outdoor meet of the season, the Wes Kittley Invitational, 17 athletes medaled for the Wildcats in 15 events, including the women’s 4x400m relay.
Kailey Roskop
3rd W Discus
3rd W Hammer
Throw Mark Barajas
3rd M 3000m SC
Peyton Bornstein
3rd W 3000m SC
Andruw Villa
1st M 1500m
Miguel Hall
3rd M 110m Hurdles
Luize Velmere
3rd W Long Jump
1st W Triple Jump
Sterling Glenn
2nd W Shot Put
Donovan Ramirez
2nd M Triple Jump
Horatio Brooks
2nd M Long Jump
Sutton Welch
2nd M Shot Put
1st M Hammer
Throw
Vincent Luffey
2nd M 800m
Aaralyn Strambler
1st W Long Jump
Benji Castro
1st M 800m
Jalyn Childers, Gracee Whitaker, Emma Santoro, Jess Reyes
2nd W 4x400m Relay
The five first place finishes are a good start to the outdoor season, but the Wildcats will look to improve their standings with every meet.
This is the first sea -
from scoring. SUU had the bases loaded in the 6th, but Beeman forced a pop-out to Lacina. “I just wanted to give them an opportunity to go out there… There’s longevity to the sport, and you can’t just throw, throw and throw. We have to get others some innings so we can be healthy in May.” said Koons. This weekend, the Wildcats will host conference opponent Utah Tech University in a three game series, Friday at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., with Saturday’s game taking place at noon.
BY HAYDEN DELAND SPORTS REPORTER
The women’s soccer team took an international trip to Italy and France during spring break to do community service and tour the countries at the start of the team’s spring season.
During the team’s spring break the coaches and players traveled to Italy and France. They were able to help underprivileged 11-yearold girls with the program “Youth Sport.” The team also helped 11-year-old boys at a youth boys’ academy. In the team’s free time, players attended a soccer match between Inter Milan and Feyenord.
Head Coach Stephen Salas hoped that the team would have been able to take an international trip when he was associate head coach of the team for six years. Now in his second year as head coach, Salas has been able to take the team on its first international trip in program history.
Salas described the trip as “a once in a lifetime experience,” since a lot of the team had never traveled internationally. He said the trip was impactful for his team as it gave them the chance to grow closer to each other and to serve the soccer community.
Amelia Miller, freshman midfielder from Winter Park, Florida, said the trip helped her get more involved in the community and allowed her to create new friendships.
“Trying new things and a new culture and food and everything was just an unreal experience,” said Miller. “I definitely think that we all became closer through the trip.”
son under Head Coach Miles Smith. Fairley said he is thankful for the coaching staff pushing him and the rest of the team to be better.
From the coaching staff to the new recruits,” he said. “I have had the immense blessing of bonding with others through the intense practices, frustrating mental blocks, weight of expectations and one singular common interest–to be more Christ-like.”
The Wildcats will split the squad and travel to two outdoor meets this weekend. Half the team will go to the Texas Relays in Austin and the other half will go to the Bobcat Invitational & Multis in San Marcos.
Before the trip, the team started its spring season, playing against Southern Methodist University. The team won the game 2-1 to gain its first win over a power four opponent. Miller said the win was a big highlight for the team and will help prepare them for the upcoming game against Texas Tech University on April 5. The spring season has provided an opportunity for the team to grow from the fall season when the team went 2-7-8. In the spring season the team is 3-0.
Salas said Peyton Hill, redshirt sophomore forward from Laguna Niguel, California, and Amelia Leggett, junior forward from Wylie, have both stood out in the spring season. Hill and Leggett both have had multi-goal games during the short spring season.
BY DANIEL CURD | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Canaan Fairley, junior multisport athlete from San Antonio, kneels in preparation for the start of the 4x100m race.
BY DANIEL CURD | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Aaralyn Strambler, freshman from Midland, sprints down the long jump track.
BY DANIEL CURD | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Natalie Poe, junior from Lubbock, jumps over one of the last hurdles in the women’s 100m hurdle race.
RUSSO