The Tech Talk | Homecoming Edition 2017

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A TECH TALK PUBLICATION

LEARN ALL ABOUT MISS TECH 2018 PAGE 3

FACES OF THE HOMECOMING COURT 2017 PAGE 5

GET READY TO CHEER ON THE ’DOGS AS THEY TAKE ON UNT PAGE 8

2016 HOMECOMING QUEEN

MEGAN

FRANKS AND HOMECOMING KING, BEN RICE, REFLECT ON THEIR TIME AS LOUISIANA TECH ROYALTY

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The Tech Talk

HOMECOMING EDITION 2017

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hether one is a freshman experiencing Louisiana Tech Homecoming for the first time or a senior enjoying the festivities for the last time, it can be agreed upon that there is something truly special about the week.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

But it isn’t the step shows, the cook-offs or the talent shows that make Homecoming week such an anticipated experience. And, though I hope as much as anyone else that our Bulldogs pull off a win for us, I will say it is not the football game that makes the week special either.

It’s the community.

During Homecoming week, everyone is buzzing with excitement and the campus comes alive. Everyone is welcome at every event, and all feel included, even if just for one week.

The sense of community, not only on Tech campus but also in Ruston as a whole, is always present. But in putting this issue together, I learned that unity is stronger during Homecoming week. I’ve been amazed at how eager Tech students are to show returning alumni how our university and town have changed.

As the days of my collegiate career begin to come to a close, the reality has set in that one day, whether it be at the end of the current quarter or four years from now, we will all have to leave Tech. We will embark on the journey of post-graduate life, and our paths will take us out of Ruston. We will be left to cherish the memories we made here and will tell stories of the adventures we had.

We will also get the privilege of returning as alum-

ni. We will all get to be cheesy and sentimental as we wander around campus, seeing how everything has changed and remembering the way things were.

I know many things will be very different, but I have no doubt the strong sense of community and school spirit will be the same. The unity of homecoming will still exist, and Tech students will still be eager to show alumni and citizens of Ruston how much they love the university. I, like every other returning alumnus, will fondly remember the good times I had here, the people I met and the lessons I learned.

To my fellow students: have fun at the step shows, cook-offs, parades and talent shows. Cheer as loudly as you can at the football game. Be excited about who we are as students of this university, and show everyone how much we love this place.

And to the alumni: I hope you can see how proud we are to be Bulldogs and how happy we are to have you back. In the midst of all of the changes the university has undergone since your time here, I hope you see how the heart of homecoming and the spirit of Tech have stayed the same. Welcome home.

Starla Gatson

would like to congratulate all of the Homecoming nominees

The Tech Talk • 3

HOMECOMING EDITION 2017 Homecoming

EVENTS

Sitting down with

Miss Tech 2018 Samantha Hawthorne talks about her recent crowning and the year ahead Why did you decide to compete for Miss Tech?

FRIDAY NOV. 4

• College of Business Ribbon Cutting 10:30 a.m.

• Float Competition 4 p.m. at Railroad Park • Rock the Railroad 5:30 p.m. at Railroad Park • Pep Rally and Homecoming Court Presentation 6 p.m. at Railroad Park • Corey Smith Concert 7 p.m. at The Revelry of Ruston • Bowling For Soup Concert 7:30 p.m. at Railroad Park

SATURDAY NOV. 4

• Breakfast with Champ 8-10 a.m. at Lambright Intramural Center • Band Rehearsal with Alumni - 8-10 a.m. at Joe Aillet Stadium • Parade/Loyal Blue March with Homecoming Court 11 a.m. from Band Building to Joe Aillet Stadium • Football Team Arrival 12:15 p.m. at Bulldog Village • Tech Trolley - 12:30-2:30 p.m.

• LA Tech vs. North Texas2:30 p.m. - Joe Aillet Stadium • Presentation of the Homecoming Court during halftime - Joe Aillet Stadium

When I was a senior in high school, I met a former Miss Tech at a dance camp. I honestly “fangirled” over her too hard, but at that moment I knew I wanted to be Miss Louisiana Tech.

She had the biggest impact on my life and still does to this day. As Miss Louisiana Tech ,I knew I wanted to make the same positive impact on someone else’s life the way she did to mine.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

I am honestly looking forward to spending every single day as Miss Louisiana Tech 2018. This has been a dream of mine since my senior year of high school, and words do not express

enough how honored I feel to represent my university.

I feel so incredibly blessed, and every day is something new and exciting.

What makes you proud to be a Louisiana Tech Bulldog?

Louisiana Tech is truly a family. When I walk on campus, I can immediately feel the love and school spirit each person has for this university. I am proud to say here at Louisiana Tech we are more than just a student ID number. Even though our campus is diverse in every spectrum, I cherish how we all come together with the same love for our university.

Are you participating in any of the Homecoming festivities?

I was crowned Miss Tech

just last week, but I knew I wanted to participate in as much of Homecoming week as possible. So I literally woke up the next day and immediately started contacting SGA and Union Board to ask what I could do! I gave my $18.94 to dollars for dogs, Mr. Tech and I will be making an appearance at Tech or Treat, I will be introduced at the pep rally, I will be riding in the Homecoming parade with Mr. Tech and then tailgating with the Homecoming court and alumni. Lastly, I have the opportunity to be a honorary team captain and perform the coin toss!

What is your favorite part of Homecoming week?

This is my last Homecoming as a student and my favorite thing in the world is that I get to experience it all as Miss Tech. That just

Photo by Jonathan Shaul

makes it so much more special and meaningful. It could not be a more perfect ending to my college experience. I will say that I am excited to have the opportunity to do the coin toss at the game.

What does being Miss Tech mean to you?

The love I have for my university is indescribable.

Louisiana Tech has given so much and invested in me and I just want to spend this year giving back as much as I can. I know that because I am a senior and having spent the past three years loving and learning from this school has prepared me to do this job this year.

Here comes the Homecoming parade KACIE KAUFMAN Managing Editor | kjk019@latech.edu Red, white and loyal blue spirit will fill the streets of Ruston as the annual homecoming parade makes its way through campus and beyond this Saturday.

Attendees will be able to catch glimpses of the homecoming court, Miss Louisiana Tech, the Louisiana Tech Marching Band, the Regal Blues and other honored guests and groups as the parade passes by.

The procession will begin at University Hall at 11:15 a.m. and end at Argent Pavilion.

Brittany Kastner, one of the SGA directors of student activities, said the team behind the event has been planning since last May. “(We are) trying to create the best parade with the greatest amount of people, from alumni to fans to different student groups,” she said.

Kastner, a senior secondary education in chemistry major, said the annual parade serves as a way to connect students and other entities in the community.

“I think it is important to continue the tradition because the pep rally on Friday night is more for the students, but the parade on Saturday is important because it incorporates alumni and the fans as well as the students,” she said.

Kastner said she is looking forward to seeing the

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winners of the float competition as they participate in the parade.

“I’m excited to see the floats,” she said. “They are all based on the patriotic Homecoming theme and I am excited to see how each student group incorporates the theme with their own twist.”

Hailey Chaudoir, a junior biology major and a member of the Regal Blues, said the event was a way to share Tech spirit.

“In my opinion, the importance of the Homecoming parade is to highlight key parts of Tech and show off these elements to all the

Tech family and friends that may be back in town for Homecoming,” she said.

Chaudoir said she looks forward to the opportunity to take part in the tradition.

“Walking in the parade will be a great honor and will be a great way for us to show our Tech spirit and love for the university,” she said.

Caroline Francis, a junior music education major and marching band member, said the music is an essential element of the parade. “(The band is there) because of the importance of the music and being able to bring the school together,”

she said. “Elevating the school spirit is the biggest part of it. It helps people get excited for what is going on.”

Camille Cole, a freshman speech pathology major, said she is anticipating seeing all of the different aspects of the parade, especially the fashion choices from the court.

“I am excited to see them (the court) in their outfits,” she said. “I think a lot of girls are excited to see what they pick because it reflects their personalities.”

Cole said as a freshman, she was looking forward

to experiencing what was in store for Homecoming week.

“Homecoming is a big deal, and you just have to celebrate it,” she said.

The parade will start at 11:15 a.m. Saturday at University Hall. It will go over the Everett Street bridge and down Everett Street. It will turn left on West Alabama Avenue. The parade will go all the way down West Alabama until it hits Tech Drive where it will turn right. The parade will then turn left on Stadium Drive and then turn right on Bulldog Drive. The parade will end at Argent Pavilion.

4 • The Tech Talk

INSIGHT

The

TechTalk

A RUNNER’S RAMBLINGS

MANAGEMENT

Those (soon-to-be) old Tech days

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Starla Gatson

KACIE KAUFMAN Managing Editor | kjk019@latech.edu

MANAGING EDITOR Kacie Kaufman

NEWS EDITORS

Morgan Bernard Bryn Young

PHOTO EDITOR

Brian Blakely

PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Bartel Jonathan Shaul Ashley Kober Danny Do

ADVISERS

T. Scott Boatright Dr. Judith Roberts Michael LeBlanc

ADVERTISING ADVISER Michael LeBlanc

PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael LeBlanc

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michael LeBlanc

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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few weekends ago, I had the opportunity to show my parents and grandmother around Tech and Ruston over the course of several days.

While my parents had been to the town before, it was before I was a student, and on strictly whirlwind visits. It was my grandmother’s first-ever encounter with the university.

As I gave them the grand tour of campus and got to see their faces light up as we viewed the campus from Wyly Tower, I had a moment of realization: this was soon to be my alma mater, and I was proud to say this.

Prior to the weekend my parents came to visit, I had never quite considered the walks truly noble or the walks truly pleasant. It was simply a place where I went to class, with nice trees and stately brick buildings. However, on that weekend, the campus truly charmed me. While I appreciated the opportunities at Tech, I had not come to realize the full scope of just how dear the campus had grown to me in my time here.

I moved to Tech to start my education

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Tech Talk welcomes letters to the editor. However, we reserve the right not to print anonymous letters. We also ask that each letter be accompanied by a telephone number, address and classification or title. We will not print the telephone number. Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 138 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publication. Letters should be mailed to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. Emails should be sent to techtalk@latech.edu. You can also submit letters online at www.thetechtalk.org/home/ lettertotheeditor/.

Louisiana Tech University is committed to the principle of providing the opportunity for learning and development of all qualified citizens without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status for admission to, participation in, or employment in the programs and activities which the University sponsors or operates. For Title IX information, see University Policy #1445 at http://www.latech. edu/administration/policies­and­ procedures/1445.shtml.

Howard Auditorium.

All of these things and more have led me to think: I just might miss it. The 6 a.m. workouts with their stunning sunrises, the hours spent producing these very pages, the faces of the friends I have come to know in my time here — I will soon miss all the memories made here.

In light of the approaching Homecoming and the alumni who will be coming to visit, I wonder about my own future.

I hope to be one of the loyal blue-wearing fans returning for some future football game, coming home to the university that gave me the tools to go out into the real world. I hope to see the plans for the town and university come to fruition, and whether it takes me 10 years to get back to Ruston or 20, I know I will be impressed by what I see. I look forward to this future Homecoming.

While Ruston may not be where I was born, it has become a second home to me in many ways. While I am anxious to graduate and move somewhere new, I will carry Tech’s tenets and memories with me.

Kacie Kaufman is a junior communication major from Loveland, Colorado.

MORGAN’S MUSINGS

The call of the bulldog

PUBLICATION

The Tech Talk (USPS 535­540) is published Thursdays of the regular school year, except in va­ cation and examination periods, by the Journalism Department of Louisiana Tech University.

Publication office is in George T. Madison Hall 165

a little more than two years ago. Ruston was perhaps only a third of the size of my hometown, and while I by no means had come from a big city, I was not entirely prepared for the transition to a more Southern style of life.

Eventually, I settled into a routine, but it was rare for me to feel completely at home. While every person I met was full of Southern hospitality (a characteristic I am still amazed by), I felt a bit like an outsider who couldn’t quite keep up with all of the “y’alls” I encountered. I longed for the mountains and home at first, but slowly began to appreciate the landscape around me.

I also found myself getting gradually more involved. With each passing year, I have gone to more meetings and joined more on-campus organizations. I have interviewed subjects ranging from the university’s president to those in Ruston’s city government, discovering the nuances of Ruston’s and Tech’s communities along the way.

I have seen Ruston grow. I have stumbled into numbers of treasures at the downtown shops and enjoyed Louisiana Saturday nights. I have seen performances at the Dixie, The Revelry and

MORGAN BERNARD News Editor | mrb056@latech.edu

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t seems like it was only yesterday when I was a senior in high school making major decisions in life like what college to attend and for what major. I traveled far and wide (within Louisiana borders) to college campuses, but to no avail did I find a university where I felt like I belonged — or so it at first seemed.

Most of the campuses were too large for my taste. I felt like I would get lost on my first day of classes and end up being missing forever.

Others were eerily small and ghost town-like, as there were no students in sight on the campus. Even a few colleges I became vaguely interested in were much too far from home for my mother to cope, so they were also struck from the list of potentials.

Only after several awkward college tours with overly perky tour guides did I find a university that felt like the one for me: Louisiana Tech.

I enjoyed my first tour at Tech so much that I came on a second tour, just to make sure I was 100 percent set on going here. Afterward, I ended up not touring other universities I had originally planned to because I was

certain this was the place for me.

Here are a few aspects that aided in my decision of choosing Tech as my college home.

The campus is the perfect size to me: not too big or small. Tech is small enough where you can go through every day on campus seeing one of your friends, but it is also large enough to where you can avoid people you don’t care to see as well (something essential to my everyday life).

Also, the faculty and students here are friendly and willing to help, but they are not jumping at you with the fake enthusiasm. The friendliness is genuine, and not so overpowering that it makes the whole situation painful for everyone involved.

Another thing about Tech that really intrigued me was the close relationship it has with Ruston. The city is always involved in the university’s events, whether it be tailgating for football or trick-or-treating in Hideaway Park. I enjoy this closeness because it makes it easier to connect with more people, not only on campus, but also within the entire Ruston community.

This closeness and university size also makes interacting with profes-

sors easier, which was a big plus to me. I love the convenience of being able to meet with my professors when I have questions about a class.

This is a task at larger universities that would seem practically impossible as there are 1,000 students in one class and the professor knows not a single one of their names.

Although one of my favorite things about Tech is its size, it is obvious that our campus is always growing. This ambition of always wanting to be a more comfortable and successful university is another great characteristic.

It not only brings in more potential students for the school, but these advances are also for the better of current students.

Probably the aspect that is bestknown about Tech is its close, familylike atmosphere. As cheesy as it may sound at times, it is 100 percent true.

For a smaller university, Tech students and alumni show such strong passion and pride for their school.

Even though some of us may not express it as much as others, we all occasionally bleed red and blue and cheer for the Bulldogs.

Morgan Bernard is a junior communication from Echo, Louisiana.

FROM MY MIND TO YOURS

A Homecoming with purpose ANDREW BELL Staff Reporter | agb022@latech.edu

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rowing up, I went to high school in Alexandria, Louisiana. Like most high schools, the homecoming tradition at Alexandria Senior High included the approach of Homecoming early in the year, searching for a date, finding a pricy outfit, going to the football game the night before and making an appearance at the dance so you could go to the after party.

At the time, I never thought twice about the arbitrary nature of it all. It was just something you did, whether or not anyone really understood why. Most people attended the dance and the ones who didn’t were viewed as unconventional for whatever reason.

Essentially, high school Homecoming functioned as a photo shoot, unless you liked dancing.

And that is not to totally put down

high school Homecomings. I actually enjoyed my four experiences, for the most part. However, there is just a lack of meaning that is evident in the process.

So, as it came closer to Homecoming time my freshman year of college, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. Is there a dance? Do I need to go buy a tuxedo?

When I was informed that most students simply went to the Homecoming game and voted for the king and queen, I was relieved, but then thought something was missing.

I knew in high school, Homecoming technically meant the return of alumni, but no one ever really acknowledged it. No one wanted to be “that guy” or what our high school referred to as “Trojan boy,” who returned to high school after they graduated to hang out with the kids younger than them.

So I kind of forgot about that aspect of Homecoming. Upon learn-

ing that the return of alumni is actually a highly anticipated aspect of Homecoming at Tech, I gained an entirely new respect for the event.

It is an opportunity to create relationships with former students of a university that truly regards their alumni as family members. Not to mention, it’s an opportunity to create alumni networks with people for internships and job openings. I never felt that connection in high school, but at Tech it’s a meaningful experience.

Not so arbitrary after all, eh?

So, to all Tech students: go out and support your Tech football team against the North Texas Mean Green Saturday afternoon, and try to connect with your returning alumni and solidify yourself as a member of the Tech family.

Andrew Bell is a sophomore communication major from Alexandria, Louisiana.

What should Homecoming mean to students?

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omecoming is upon us at Louisiana Tech. It is time for tailgates, activities and a hyped-up football game. More importantly, it is a time for alumni to return home to their alma mater and revisit the place that made them who they are today.

For returning alumni, this is a time of remembrance of the good old days and a respite from their adult life. For current students of Louisiana Tech, this time seems focused on electing the Homecoming court, participating in the week’s festivities and, most importantly, the football game. But it should mean more, right?

This is a time meant for remembering the Tech of old, but it is in the opinion of The Tech Talk that students should use this time to think about the Tech of the now and the Tech of the future.

As you spend your Homecoming week planning how to tailgate or what Homecoming week activities to go to, spend some extra time thinking about how you can make Tech a better place for both yourself and others.

Before or during our freshman year, we are all told the tenets of Tech: confidence, excellence, commitment, knowledge, integrity, respect, leadership, loyalty, enthusiasm, caring, hope and pride.

This Homecoming week, meditate on those tenets and what it means to be a Tech Bulldog. We students are the driving force of this college. Without us, there would be no Tech. Each of us hold the responsibility to do what we can to better our campus and the Ruston community whether that be through volunteer work, hard work in the classroom, giving it your best in life or even just being kind and courteous to your fellow students.

In the wise words of “High School Musical,” “we’re all in this together,” so we should think about how our actions and words impact the way others look at this university. That thoughtfulness should stand for now and 20 years from now. What we do with ourselves both now and in the future tells of the type of people this college creates.

Even if you become the next Silicon Valley mogul or major star, you can still be kind and caring. Whether it’s for yourself, your country or your alma mater, you can always show pride. Whether you become a star or nurse, you can always strive for excellence.

Even in the worst of times, you can always hope. No matter where you are in your life you can always give your best, even now.

When we present our best to the world, the world will come to know of the nobleness and goodness that comes out of Tech. That thought should go with you even as you graduate and one day return for your own Homecoming as an alum of this university.

Always strive to be the Bulldog you wish to see in the world.

The Tech Talk

HOMECOMING COURT 2017

LAUREN JAMES junior biology

LIBBI LANGE senior elementary education

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: I can’t ever put into words how much being on the court means to me and how humbled I am to represent such an amazing university.

TARYN STARK senior finance Q: What are you most excited about during Homecoming week?

A: I am most excited to be able to attend all the events of the week and represent the student body and university in the process.

TREVOR HAMMONS senior animal science Q: What are you most excited about during Homecoming week?

A: I am excited about the opportunity to represent this university. It holds a special place in my heart and I want others to realize how great Louisiana Tech is.

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: I am extremely humbled to be associated with

PHOTOS BY

such a prestigious group of people and am so excited for the memories ahead of us.

DONNY CROWE

QUENTON BUCKHALTER junior communication and Spanish

CATHERINE SHAW senior secondary English education

Q: What are you most excited about during Homecoming week?

A: I am excited that I get to help break the

Q: What are you most excited about during Homecoming week?

A: I am most excited about the Saturday of

mold of what the “ideal” Tech student looks like.

homecoming week because it will be a fun and busy day between the parade and the game.

SARAH MINTER senior clinical kinesiology

HARRISON POTTS junior accounting

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: I’m honored and excited to be on court and represent the university and my organization.

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: I love serving this university and am honored to get to do so during homecoming week.

RYDER MILLER junior marketing Q: What are you most excited about during Homecoming week?

A: I am most excited to have the opportunity to represent the organizations that I’m a part of.

CHANDLER GUERRIERO senior family and child studies Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: Louisiana Tech holds a special place in my heart, and I could not be more excited and honored to represent this university.

ANNA BLAKE senior kinesiology

LANE BRISTER senior civil engineering

CALEB WHITE senior biology

GRANT CLARY senior marketing

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: Tech has given me so

Q: How does it feel be on the Homecoming court?

A: I’m really excited to be

Q: What are you most looking forward to during Homecoming week?

A: I have been attending the Homecoming

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: This school means a lot to my family and I, and I can’t wait to walk across the field.

many opportunities to grow in all areas of life, so I’m just honored to be a part of one of the biggest traditions.

on Homecoming court with such an awesome group of Tech students. It’s also special because most of the people that are on court this year are my best friends.

RACHEL SMELLEY senior early childhood education

ALLI TRAN senior biology

JAMES DAVISON senior finance

GRANT ARTERO sophomore English

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: I am so thankful for this opportunity! It’s amazing to be part of one of the best traditions this university has to offer.

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: I’m pretty doggone fired up. It’s a real privilege to be put here by the students and to stand with the amazing guys and girls I know on court.

Q: How does it feel to be on the Homecoming court?

A: It has been over a week since results came out, and I am still at a loss for words. This is such an incredible opportunity I cannot wait to experience.

Q: What are you most excited about during Homecoming week?

A: The one thing that I look forward to the most is getting to walk across the football field with Quenton.

parade ever since I was in elementary school, and to now be a part of it is something I am really looking forward to.

• 5

6 •

The Tech Talk

HOMECOMING EDITION 2017

Photo courtesy of Tom Soto-University Communications

Ben Rice and Megan Franks were crowned during halftime of last year’s football game by 2015 king and queen Bailey Laborde (left) and Hannah Francis (right).

A Year

Crown with the

2016 Homecoming Queen Megan Franks and King Ben Rice recap their year as royals BRYN YOUNG News Editor | bjy001@ latech.edu

H

omecoming is a time for stories. A time for alumni to Photo by students Deepanjan tell the young of Mukhopadhyay how it used to be. A time for students to return the favor and tell those alumni how it is now. This year, 2016 Homecoming king and queen Ben Rice and Megan Franks get to tell their tale of being royalty for a year.

Their story began the same way this year’s royalty’s will: with the Homecoming court nomination process. Both Rice and Franks said the process was stressful and nerve-wracking, and neither expected to make the court, let alone be voted king and queen.

“No, (I didn’t expect to make it),” Rice, a senior English major, said. “I really wanted to because my mom had been on it before, and I knew that would be really cool for her more than anybody. I knew she was rooting for me. I had to interview with some alumni. I had to basically submit my resume and they scored it. So I made it to the ballot because of that, and students voted for me for some reason. That was really cool for sure.”

Franks said the news of making the court came as a huge relief after a week of such major scrutiny and self-doubt.

“The whole experience, honestly, it’s rough,” she said.

“Once you make the ballot, you’re just so nervous the whole week. And no, I did not expect to make it at all, even on court, because if you are not an OSL, you go in there as an underdog.

I knew a lot of people on campus, but again, there’s the whole self-confidence issue. That’s a big issue for Kappa Delta. That’s our philanthropy. Girls struggle with that all the time, and this whole process is just that amplified.”

Rice said the moment of being announced king and queen was a rush of emotions and surprise, catching them both offguard.

“I don’t think my partner or I expected it at all,” Rice said.

“I had definitely heard a lot of people think the other couples were going to be king and queen, so we really didn’t expect it.

That’s not just me saying that to be humble; we really didn’t

expect it. So when I heard them say ‘Megan,’ that’s all I heard because I knew it was us at that point. She was bawling. I’m not a crier, but my mom was crying. Everyone was crying.”

Franks and Rice said their time as Homecoming royalty was an experience that taught them more about themselves.

Franks said she learned self-confidence and Rice said he learned to handle the pressures of the spotlight.

“Homecoming king is interesting in a way because you’re never really asked to do anything,” Rice said. “You don’t have to go to events, for instance, like Miss Tech does. But I will say that it put a bit more of a spotlight on me. You have to remember to carry yourself as someone who represents the university should. I learned how to represent something bigger than myself.”

While both Franks and Rice hope they served the role well over the year, they are excited to pass the torch to their successors.

“It’s exciting,” Franks said. “Ben is SGA president, so he already knows who it is. I was like, ‘Don’t tell me, I want to be surprised!’ So I am really excited to figure out who it is. I have so many friends on court this year, and I’m really excited for whoever it is. I’m just excited for them to experience the joy and excitement that afternoon and the football game.”

Both Rice and Franks had words of advice for the couple that will replace them in the coming days. Rice told the next king to be humble and be cautious with how he carries himself.

“Don’t let it get to your head,” Rice said. “Remember you represent this place in so many ways. A future king should take it as an honor and represent this place as it deserves to be represented and keep that in mind as you post on snapchat and social media. (Have) the ability to not let it go to your head either. In a way, it is a popularity contest, but there’s no reason to think you’re better than anyone else because of it.”

Franks said the next queen should be respectful of the title and simply enjoy her reign as queen.

“I’d say my advice is be a humble queen but really soak up everything it has to offer,” Franks said. “Don’t over push the boundaries of all the recognition you get but also just enjoy it.

It’s a year of being a queen.”

The Tech Talk • 7

HOMECOMING EDITION 2017

HOMECOMING FASHION STYLES BY SARAH-KATHERINE SEMON

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY KOBER

Melanie Williams, a senior business management major, models outfits from Ruston boutiques to show how you can cheer on the Bulldogs in style.

STRIPE SPANGLED BANNER LUSH Striped Romper $52 JACK by BB Dakota Leather Jacket $76 Dolce Vita Perforated Booties in Blush $148 Outfit courtesy of Rodeo Boutique

PLAID AND PATRIOTIC Plaid Blanket Scarf $15 Mud-Pie Marissa Sweater Dress $64.95 Yoki Over-the-Knee Boots in Burgundy $41.95

Gold Layered Necklace $21

Outfit courtesy of Beehive

A Homecoming SGA hosts red, white and loyal blue Color Run queen’s flashback STARLA GATSON Editor-In-Chief | sjg021@latech.edu Homecoming week was off to a bright start with the first-ever Bulldogs Patriotic Homecoming Color Run. Clouds of red, white and blue powder filled the air, signaling not only the beginning of the race, but also the beginning of Louisiana Tech’s week of Homecoming activities.

The 2.5-mile race was held Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. at Tech Farm and was hosted by the Student Government Association.

Brittany Kastner, the SGA’s director of student activities, said the idea for the color run stemmed from Homecoming week’s theme.

“We decided we would have a patriotic-themed Homecoming, and when I think of that, I always think of fireworks,” she said. “So I thought of when people are running in a color run and you throw the color, it kind of looks like fireworks, so it would be a big bang to start out Homecoming week.”

Kastner, a senior secondary education in chemistry major, said all of the race’s proceeds will go to Tech’s Student Advancement Team, an organization that encourages students to donate to the Louisiana Tech Foundation.

The race’s partici- Tech Leadership Council, pants were divided into said she thinks students four categories: male or have not only been recepfemale Tech student and tive to the color run, but to male or female commu- the week as a whole. nity member. Winners in “I think the advertiseeach category received a ment for everything is plaque and will be recog- going pretty well,” she nized at Friday’s pep rally. said. “There’s stuff going Kastner said around sothe number cial media of race par- “I thought of and emails ticipants ex- when people are that tell ceeded her what’s going expectations running in a col- on.” and said she or run and you Amanda hopes to see Taunton the run be- throw the color, competed in come an an- it kind of looks the female nual event. community “We just like fireworks, division with hoped to so it would be a a running have at least class from 75 people big bang to start her church sign up, and out Homecoming and said the we’re at 100 group decidpeople so week.” ed to particiwe passed pate in the that mark,” race as part she said. BRITTANY KASTNER of their train“We’re really SGA director of ing for a 5K. excited; it’s student activities “ W e our first year, heard about and we think this color run it’s a great success so far.” and thought it’d be a good Faith Guice, a freshman way to get out and see nursing major, said she how we’re doing so far at thinks students responded the half of our training,” well to the race and were she said. excited to be covered in Taunton said she enred, white and blue. joyed the event and would “I love color runs,” she participate in it again in said. “I think everyone the future. loves color runs. Every“It was a great opportubody likes having color nity,” she said. “It was kind thrown on them and look- of a tough course with the ing cool. I think it’s fun.” hills, but it was a lot of fun.

Guice, a member of the We had a good time.”

MORGAN BERNARD News Editor | mrb056@latech.edu

The year of 1994 was a special one for Louisiana Tech. Along with the traditions of Homecoming, there were also centennial celebrations for the university’s 100th year. With the usual events such as the parade and football game, the Homecoming king and queen at the time also had to participate in centennial affairs.

Jennifer Riley was the Homecoming queen during this time. Looking back now, she said she loved her time as a student at Tech as well as her time as queen.

“Being Homecoming queen my senior year was one of my favorite experiences during college,” Riley said. “I loved my time at Tech, and still feel a strong connection to the university today.”

Riley graduated from Tech in 1994, majoring in political science with a concentration in pre-law. She then furthered her studies at Louisiana State University for two more years and graduated law school.

Riley has since returned to Tech to serve as the executive director of university advancement and general counsel of the Alumni Association.

Riley said being Homecoming queen 23 years ago is something she will never forget.

“There were a lot of fes-

tivities going on for Homecoming along with the centennial,” she said. “The fundraisers, parties and stuff like that were so much fun to participate in as a student. There was also the centennial celebration gala, which was a big, beautiful dinner.”

Riley said she is lucky to have the opportunity to work for Tech, a university she holds close to her heart.

“This is a job that I truly love, and I look forward to coming every day,” she said.

“It’s great that I get to work for a university that I have loved for such a long time.”

Today, Riley is still an avid fan of Tech and attends games and other events with her family frequently.

“We love to come with our kids and enjoy it as a family,” she said. “My parents are also Tech fans, so they come to visit and we make it a family event.”

Riley began her studies at Tech in 1991 and was involved in several student organizations, including the Kappa Delta sorority. She was also a member of SGA and a orientation student leader her junior year.

Along with her involvement in organizations, Riley also worked for the English department during her four years at Tech. She said she enjoyed working in everything she was involved with and is thankful for the memories.

“I made so many friends in my sorority and the other

groups I joined at Tech,” Riley said. “I also loved working for the English department. I have so many fond memories from working there.”

Riley said Tech’s campus has changed so much, but it also sometimes seems the same to her.

“Physically, Tech has changed a lot and has grown larger,” she said. “But at the heart of it, there’s a lot of sameness as well.

You can stand in the quad and get feelings of nostalgia because it still looks the same.”

Riley said the audience at football games and the students of Tech have also risen in numbers, and she sees this constant growth as a good thing for the university.

“When I was a student, coming from a small town, I thought our games were a big deal,” Riley said. “But they’re even bigger now.

There are more people and more spirit surrounding the games.”

She said she has also witnessed the town of Ruston grow and become more connected with Tech.

“Ruston has grown and changed in such a good way,” Riley said. “There’s a more vibrant feeling downtown, and there is more involvement with university students. It’s always been a great place but I think it’s becoming even better. I will always love Louisiana Tech and Ruston.”

8 •

The Tech Talk

SPORTS

THIS WEEK IN BULLDOG FOOTBALL Bulldogs bowl hunt in 92nd Homecoming game ANDREW BELL Staff Reporter | agb022@latech.edu The Bulldogs encountered yet another scare Oct. 29, but narrowly survived to keep their bowl hopes alive going into their Homecoming showdown against North Texas this Saturday.

Louisiana Tech (4-4, 2-2) traveled to Rice (1-7, 1-3) in a game that was too close for comfort but concluded with a 42-28 Tech victory.

Tech was outgained by 17 total yards in the contest but made up for the yardage by forcing Rice into committing four turnovers, including a game-clinching pick six by junior cornerback Trey Spencer to make it 42-28 with 36 seconds remaining. Tech managed to take care of the ball and commited no turnovers.

Head coach Skip Holtz and the ’Dogs broke a twogame losing streak with their win against the Owls.

“I thought some guys really stepped up and did some great things tonight,” Holtz said. “We talked about how we’d come in here and find a way to get a win with a lot of injuries on this football team and I’m really proud of the way they came out here and did that.”

The injuries Holtz referred to included two starting linebackers and offensive linemen who were inactive against Rice, resulting in senior safety Secdrick Cooper moving up to play some linebacker and junior lineman O’Shea Dugas playing a starting role. These adjustments proved successful with Tech allowing only two sacks all game and Cooper accumulating a team-high eight total tackles, a pass deflection and a quarterback hurry.

After a rough week against Southern Miss’ blistering defense, sophomore quarterback J’mar Smith bounced back with a strong performance against the Owls. Smith threw for 237 yards and a touchdown while completing 66 percent of passes and rushing for 27 yards on eight attempts.

“Boy, (Smith) played really well,” Holtz said. “I really thought he made really good decisions and protected the ball. He did a really nice job. He ran for a couple critical first downs, was patient, saw the field really well and just didn’t turn the ball over. It was a complete difference from a week ago, when he wasn’t playing with that confidence. And when J’mar goes out and plays with the confidence he did today, he has a lot of intangible traits that make him a successful quarterback.”

Other key contributors for Tech included senior running back Boston Scott with 87 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, senior running back Jarred Craft with 67 rushing yards and a touchdown, junior receiver Teddy Veal with 11 catches on 118 receiving yards and sophomore safety Darryl Lewis with four total tackles and an interception.

This road win comes as a relief going into possibly the biggest game of the season against a North Texas team (5-3, 4-1) who, besides one loss against FAU, has been nearly flawless in conference play. A win against North Texas on Homecoming night would make Tech 5-4 overall and 3-2 in the conference.

The game starts at 2:30 p.m., Nov. 4 at Joe Aillet Stadium.

Photos by Donny Crowe/LATechSportsPix.com

Quarterback J’Mar Smith (8) prepares to pass the ball during Tech’s win over Rice.

Welcome to the showdown: Bulldogs versus Mean Green For Homecoming, Louisiana Tech will host the University of North Texas Mean Green at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon inside Joe Aillet Stadium.

The game can be listened to on KXKZ107.5FM. Tech defeated North Texas last season in Denton, 45-24, and leads the series between the two teams 9-6.

OVERALL RECORD: 4-4, (2-2 C-USA) POINTS PER GAME: 29.6

J’MAR SMITH - QB

BOSTON SCOTT - RB

1,960 yards passing 246.1 yards per game 10 touchdowns

804 all-purpose yards 100.5 all-purpose yards per game 5 touchdowns

OVERALL RECORD: 5-3, (4-1 C-USA) POINTS PER GAME: 37.4

POINTS ALLOWED PER GAME: 27.6

POINTS ALLOWED PER GAME: 37.9

AVERAGE YARDS PER GAME: 401.9

AVERAGE YARDS PER GAME: 484.4

TOUCHDOWNS (RUSHING/PASSING): 13/11

TOUCHDOWNS (RUSHING/PASSING): 6/10

TECH IS CURRENTLY RANKED NO. 62 IN THE NATION IN TOTAL OFFENSE

AMIK ROBERTSON - DB JAYLEN FERGUSON - DE 42 tackles 2 interceptions 6 tackles for loss

30 tackles 4 sacks 2 blocked kicks

UNT IS CURRENTLY RANKED NO. 16 IN THE NATION IN TOTAL OFFENSE

MASON FINE- QB

JEFFERY WILSON - RB

2,388 yards passing 298.5 yards per game 17 touchdowns

868 yards rushing 6.35 yards per carry 11 touchdown

KHAIRI MUHAMMAD - DB

E.J. EJIYA - LB

67 tackles 1 forced fumble 3 tackles for loss

67 tackles 1 forced fumble 4.5 sacks