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Luther starts search to replace retiring faculty
Departments have begun organizing search committees to replace at least seven faculty members who will retire following the 2014-2015 school year. Retiring professors include Professor of Chemistry Carolyn Mottley, Associate Professor of Music Jim Griesheimer, Professor of Biology Tex Sordahl (‘73), Associate Professor of Nursing Donna Kubesh, Professor of Education Odette Bruneau and Professor of English Nick Preus (‘69). Professor of Political Science John
Moeller will partially retire. “A wise use of new talent allows for the adaptation of the curriculum to allow for a successor to bring special gifts and interests to the college,� Griesheimer said of the search. For the departments that have chosen to replace the retiring faculty, the decision will need final approval from the dean, the president and the Board of Regents, according to Kubesh. “The departments have to go through a process of submitting a proposal for why the person should be replaced,� Kubesh said. “Some departments may have already decided that they don’t
Religion forum series continues MAGGIE STEINBERG STAFF WRITER
need to replace, but the departments that were wanting to replace needed to submit a proposal.� Each department follows a general search plan, but there are some slight differences. For example, the English department has chosen to search for a replacement as a whole department, while the political science department will be forming a smaller committee containing just a few political science faculty. Most departments will also bring in a faculty member from another department to aid in the search.
The religion department has been hosting a series of forums titled “Teaching Religion at a College of the Church,� featuring panelists from within and outside the department. The most recent forum, held Nov. 18, explored the role of religious studies at a liberal arts institution, and focused on what constitutes as “evidence� in various departments on campus. Panelists included Professor of Biology Jodi EnosBerlage, Assistant Professor of Religion Todd Green, Professor of Religion Gereon Kopf and Associate Professor of Communication Studies Derek Sweet. The forum was moderated by Professor of Religion Guy Nave. The panelists spoke to the nature of evidence in their fields and took questions from the audience. “As a religion major, I think these forums are essential because they allow a transparency not only between the department and its students, but between the department and other faculty and the community,� Lexie Polk (‘16) said. In his past research, Sweet studied the way people react to perceived divine symbols such as the face of Jesus appearing in a grilled-cheese sandwich or Mary appearing in a salt stain under a bridge. “What I’m absolutely fascinated by is the way that people take that salt stain, insert it into their everyday lives and use it to inspire themselves and talk about their relation to God,� Sweet said. Enos-Berlage used her background in biology to talk about the nature of evidence in the field of science, particularly when discussing evolution and creation. According to EnosBerlage, the tension between science and religion comes from the fact that science can only speak to things that can be tested. “Evolution is a testable hypothesis,� Enos-Berlage said. “No one has figured out a testable experiment to do on creation, so it’s outside of the realm of science in that way.� Green uses written texts such as diaries or theological and philosophical texts to better understand how humans have made sense of themselves in the past.
RETIREMENTS, PAGE 4
RELIGION FORUM, PAGE 4
SHE’S NO DUMMY. (From left) Associate Professor of Nursing Donna Kubesh assists nursing majors Paige Johnson (‘17) and Jacqueline Schnier (‘17) in a class exercise. Makeda Barkley / Chips MAKEDA BARKLEY STAFF WRITER
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Immigration panel features students, visiting faculty LAURA HAYES STAFF WRITER Student organization HOLAEnlaces hosted their first immigration panel of the year on Nov. 19 entitled “Children in Immigration.� The panel featured Marlon Henriquez (‘15) and Pedro Lopez (‘17), who spoke on their experiences as immigrants who came to the United States as children, and Visiting Assistant Professor in Spanish Megan Strom, who discussed how immigrant children are represented in the media and her own experiences with migrants. Lopez and Henriquez told
similar stories, describing how and why they crossed into the United States. “I still have memories from the trip,� Lopez said. “I remember that at one point we were in a big great van—a caravan van—and the seats were stripped out so that more people could come in. We were bouncing around and my mom was having a hard time trying to keep me in her arms. So she handed me over to a man, a complete stranger, but they had that immigrant relationship, to keep me safe.� IMMIGRATION, PAGE 4
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NEWS
PAGE 2 DECEMBER 4, 2014
NEWS EDITORS: ANNA JEIDE & MARGARET YAPP
Susan White presents “Flash Point”
“SPHERES OF PRIVILEGE.” Jenna Myers (‘16) gazes at Susan White’s piece “Spheres of Privilege” on exhibit in the Kristin Wigley-Fleming Gallery in the Center for the Arts. Abby Carpenter/ Chips ABBY CARPENTER STAFF WRITER University of Iowa Professor of Art Susan Chrysler White’s art show “Flash Point” is currently on display in the Kristin Wigley-Fleming Galleryin the Center for the Arts. White explains the reasoning behind the title “Flash Point.” “It has to do with issues of weather and instability and the idea that there’s kind of a tipping point where everything starts to get skewed,” White said. “A number of these things had to do with the floods or the tsunami. It’s a bit dramatic. I use a fair
bit of drama in my work with color and intense patterns and structural elements that speak to something intense.” The show is not only about environmental and human issues but also White’s personal life. “The work is all autobiographical, so there’s a lot going on about me and who I am,” White said. “I go from the micro to the macro. I go from the weather and major global issues, but I also think about what it means to have a personal relationship, and it’s volatility and those kinds of things.” White’s daughter Lola White-Baer (‘15) appreciates her mothers artwork. “I like having the art at Luther because it’s exciting to have other people see what my mom does,” White-Baer said. “I really like the show. It’s interesting to see other people’s reactions to her work.”
Assistant Professor of Art Ben Moore (‘02) played a part in inviting White to show her art at Luther. “Susan was on my MFA committee at the University of Iowa, and I [was a teacher assistant] for her … and I had always really responded to her paintings.” Moore is particularly interested in the intricacy of her paintings. “Her paintings are pretty surprising at first when you look at them. It looks like spontaneous decisions and it’s completely raw,” Moore said. “Upon further investigation, you discover it’s all very thoughtful, planned and meticulous. So I think there’s a nice juxtaposition that exists with those paintings.” A particularly intricate piece in White’s show is titled “Spheres of Privilege.” “‘Spheres of Privilege’ deals with the interconnectivity of this very broad range of ideas that I was working with in painting, and you can see the Dutch stilllife paintings in the center and they’re connected to what may be an African woman,” White said. “There’s all
these different symbols, and some feel like weather, some feel like eyes of God. It’s like everything in the world and more. It’s like everything but the kitchen sink in that painting. Everything feeds off of everything else, and everything is relevant to everything in the world. We’re all affected; we’re all in it together.” White didn’t always know she wanted to be an artist. “I grew up in Spain, and my mother always took us to lots of museums in things,” White said. “So it was always there. I knew it was a way of life. It wasn’t until I just started painting in a class that I realized that it just swept me away, and that’s what I wanted to do. For people that are artists, it’s not like they choose art, it’s kind of like art chooses them. It’s either that or nothing.” White-Baer is fascinated that her mom is showing her art all over the world. “I think some of the coolest things my mom has done is her art abroad,” WhiteBaer said. “She takes an art class to India every January for a month and shows students another side of art. She also has done installations in the United Arab Emirates, so it’s super cool that her art is being shown all around the world and that she is able to share it with different cultures.” To see Susan Chrysler White’s show “Flash Point,” visit the CFA before Dec. 12.
NEWS
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NEWS EDITORS: ANNA JEIDE & MARGARET YAPP THURSDAY
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Phishing emails hack into Luther accounts RACHEL WILLIAMS STAFF WRITER
This past semester Luther College students, staff and faculty have received more phishing emails in their Luther email boxes than in previous semesters according to Library and Information Services (LIS). Phishing is the act of impersonating an organisation through email and fake websites in an attempt to gain private information, including login credential and credit card details, according to fraudwatchinternational.com. “At least four different instances have occurred in six weeks each with the same subject ‘Review Documents,’ and with different links,” Director of User Services Diane Gossman said. Not only has the amount of phishing emails increased, but they have become more sophisticated as well. “There is nothing in the email system that makes a person prove they are who they said they are,” Director of Network Systems Adam Forsyth (‘98) said. “Most of these phishing messages are sent from other compromised accounts. The attacker is logged in to the account as the owner, sending more phishing emails to other people.” If a recipient opens the email or the attached link, the phisher can then send the same email to addresses in the contact list as the original owner’s email address, which spreads the attack to other emails. Professor of English Nancy Barry was one of many who received a phishing email earlier this semester. “At first I thought it was phishing and didn’t open the records link in the email, but then I went back because there was an identifying tag with her name and majors that matched what was in the directory,” Barry said. “So I made the mistake of clicking on the link.” After clicking on the link all of Barry’s contacts received the same email as well. Within six hours, Library and Information Services (LIS) shut down Barry’s account and had her change the password for the account. “There was something about the fact that the email had this official signature from a Luther student that was accurate that made me second-guess my first instinct to ignore the email,” Barry said. “I was reassured that LIS did shut down the email account the way it did, and they helped [me] understand that I could retrieve my contacts through Google.” Once LIS receives a work order or is alerted to an email that has been phished, the email is blocked and can no longer send out emails. Due to the increased threat of spam and phishing emails, LIS has created a new part of their website that explains safe
computing. “It’s a tool to help students identify a targeted phishing attack,” Gossman said. “Through articles and videos students will know what to look for before clicking on the email.” Help Desk Specialist Erin Zidlicky suggested taking time to analyze the email, especially on mobile devices, before clicking on any links to help decrease the chance of attack. “We love how quick and easy it is to check email on our mobile devices, but we must pay attention to them,” Zidlicky said. “Simply checking spelling and the writing technique to make sure it is similar to what you have received from that contact in the past will help prevent a phishing attack on your email.” Help Desk Lead Carsten Earl explained that the protection of Luther internet access doesn’t expand to cellular data networks. “When LIS is notified of the link [in a phishing email], LIS tries to prevent more people from accessing that phishing link by blocking the URL through our campus network,” Earl said. “Users using cell phones not connected to the network will not be protected by this as we cannot block these links on individuals’ cell phones. That is not to say that students and faculty should stop using cell phones to check email, but students and faculty need to be aware of the risks.” The new webpage from LIS about phishing and other computer safety topics can be found at http://www.luther.edu/helpdesk/safecomputing/.
“We love how quick and easy it is to check email on our mobile devices, but we must pay attention to them as well.” - Erin Zidlicky
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Life Outside Luther Hands up gesture animates Ferguson protests Five St. Louis Rams players entered the football field with their hands raised. A day later, people walked out of work or school showing the same gesture of solidarity with Ferguson protesters. The pose has come to symbolize the movement, even though witnesses offered conflicting accounts of whether 18-year-old Michael Brown had his hands up in surrender when he was killed by Ferguson officer Darren Wilson in August. Obama wants to avoid militarized police culture President Barack Obama said Monday he wants to ensure the U.S. isn’t building a “militarized culture” within police departments, while maintaining federal programs that provide the type of military-style equipment that were used to dispel racially charged protests in Ferguson, MO. The president is asking Congress for funding to buy 50,000 body cameras to record events like the shooting death of an unarmed 18-year-old Michael Brown and look for ways to build trust and confidence between police and minority communities nationwide. He announced the creation of a task force to study success stories and recommend ways the government can support accountability, transparency and trust in police. Climate change impacts heat up UN talks in Lima With this year on track to become the warmest on record, more than 190 nations began talks Monday on new limits for the greenhouse gases that are already changing global climate patterns and making life more difficult around the world. New targets for fossil fuel use were announced ahead of the climate conference by the U.S., the European Union and China, the first Asian nation to make such a pledge. This has injected optimism into negotiations that are supposed to climax in Paris next year with the adoption of a long-awaited climate pact. Supreme Court considers Facebook threat case From the violent lyrics of rap music to the crude comments of teenagers in video-game chat rooms, the Supreme Court struggled Monday over where to draw the line between free speech and illegal threats in the digital age. The justices considered the case of a Pennsylvania man convicted of posting violent threats on Facebook —in the form of rap lyrics — about killing his estranged wife, shooting up a school and slitting the throat of an FBI agent. Compiled from: www.ap.org
NEWS
PAGE 4 DECEMBER 4, 2014
NEWS EDITORS: ANNA JEIDE & MARGARET YAPP
Staff member Jenny Larson to be Students respond remembered at Chapel service to religion forum MAGGIE STEINBERG STAFF WRITER Dining Services Supervisor Jennifer “Jenny” Larson passed away suddenly on Nov. 25. Her memorial service was held Saturday, Nov. 29 at East Clermont Luthern Church in Clermont, IA. Because many on campus were unable to travel to her memorial, the Chapel service this Friday, Dec. 5 will include a remembrance of Jenny. “Jenny was one of the first Luther College employees that I met when I came to campus,”
Ryan Goos (‘16) said. “My work study job during my first semester was in the dishroom, and this is where I got to know her. I quickly realized that working in the dishroom was a lot of work and really pretty awful, and so I never looked forward to it. But Jenny always had an extremely positive attitude, and always did what was necessary to get the job done - no matter how gross or annoying it was. This has been something that I still have not forgotten, and I have always had the deepest amount of respect for Jenny and her hardworking attitude.”
Several faculty members announce retirement RETIREMENTS, PAGE1 Once the committees or departments have narrowed down the candidates, the top two will come to campus for a visit. “When we bring candidates to campus there will be opportunities for other faculty in the department to have input in some way, and there will be an opportunity for them to present to students as well so we can get student input about the candidates,” Kubesh said of the nursing department’s
decision to form a smaller committee. While the departmental committees search for their replacements, some retirees plan what life holds for them next. “I hope to continue with research into the career and works of Edward Finch and to do some lecturing,” Griesheimer said. “I would hope to maintain some contact with students; these people having been at the center of my life for so long.” Other retiring faculty are following similar plans of action by continuing their
Upcoming Events
9 a.m., Dahl Centennial Union, Diversity Center 9:40 a.m., Olin 108
5:45 p.m., Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall Friday, December 5 Luther Diversity Center’s Annual 7 a.m., Dahl Centennial Union, Sale Diversity Center Christmas at Luther Performance 6:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall Women’s and Men’s Swimming 9:30 a.m., Rochester Rec Center, and Diving Rochester, Minn. Saturday, December 6 Women’s and Men’s Basketball vs. 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Home Viterbo University Christmas at Luther Performance 7:30 p.m., Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall Sunday, December 7 Advent Eucharist Service 10 a.m., Center for Faith and Life, Main Hall Christmas at Luther Performance 2:30 p.m., Center for Faith and (Radio Stream) Life, Main Hall Tuesday, December 9 Christmas Cheer Collection Day 9 a.m., Dahl Centennial Union, Marty’s Wednesday, December 10 Christmas in the Union 4:30 p.m., Dahl Centennial Union Christmas Dinner in the Caf 5:00 p.m., Dahl Centennial Union, Cafeteria Thursday, December 11 Women’s and Men’s Basketball, vs. 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., New Ulm, Martin Luther College Minn. Friday, December 12 Last day of classes Information from luther.edu/events
“I’m interested in how people in the past use their relationship with the divine to create economic, social and political order,” Green said. “I’m particularly interested in how stories are told. History is not necessarily an objective enterprise.” Kopf spoke about the misconceptions people have about the concept of religion and the very Christian emphasis placed on what a religion can or cannot be. “We talk about religion as a phenomenon, and people think being religious means belonging to an institution,” Kopf said. “But you can be accepted or rejected by institutions.” Following their presentations, the panel took questions from the audience. Many students asked about difficulties the religion department faces at a religious college. Polk said her favorite part of the Q&A was when a student asked the panel what they believed would happen when they die. “Professor Nave responded to that student by saying they couldn’t answer that question because she was speaking from a framework that was not universally understandable,” Polk said. “This is why I love the study of religion and why these forums are so important. We need to work together to form a language that is universally understood, and that is what the religion department works to accomplish.”
Immigration panel discusses media portrayal of migrant children RELIGION FORUM, PAGE1
Thursday, December 4 Christmas at Luther Visit Event All Day Luther Diversity Center’s Annual Sale Mathematics Senior Project Presentations Christmas at Luther Performance
professional careers in other sectors. “Right now I am involved in a project with Kari Gronningsaeter … we’re working on a small book or long article project based on some letters from her grandmother that she wrote while she was at sea with her father,” Preus said of his plans after retirement. While all of the retirees will follow different paths post-Luther, many of them will continue to be involved with Luther and their academic fields.
RELIGION FORUM, PAGE1
Strom focused on how immigrant children are currently represented in the media. In particular, she discussed the current phenomenon of children crossing the border unaccompanied by adults. Children as young as eight, she said, have come into the United States alone. They make up the 38,000 children apprehended by Border Patrol in 2012 and the 67,300 in 2013. These figures do not include the children who were not apprehended by Border Patrol. Strom commented on how she first became aware of the phenomenon of children migrating alone.
“When I was fifteen, I began to “I thought this panel was work at a restaurant,” Strom said. powerful,” attendee Nikki “One of the cooks, who was also Thompson (‘15) said. “By putting a fifteen, was face to the issue, from Ecuador. it makes you He taught me connect to the Spanish and people affected told me his versus talking story, so I got about them as a plugged into whole.” this issue. I There were began picking slight differences up Spanish between this n e w s p ap e r s immigration Nikki Thompson (‘15) panel and the and I saw how negative two panels held they were. If they’re serving this last year. According to HOLAcommunity, why are they so Enlaces, this panel had a specific negative? I started to be more topic and gave more time for a critical of the media.” question and answer session. “In the past we felt like we ran out of time and there were still tons of questions that people wanted to ask, but didn’t have a chance to,” HOLAEnlaces Co-president Maia Pugh (‘15) said. “I think it was great for part of [Lopez’s and Henriquez’s] stories to come out through the Q&A.” Questions ranged from asking why Lopez and Henriquez’s families chose to come to the United States illegally to general questions about the legal process of coming to the United States. “I thought these were great questions,” Lopez said. “I hope [the audience] was affected and will continue to talk about these issues.” HOLA-Enlaces offers volunteer options for students, such as teaching ESL classes in Postville, Iowa, and works to promote conversation about Latino culture and issues. The group meets on Sundays in Valders 349 at 8 p.m.
“By putting a face to the issue, it makes you connect to the people affected versus talking about them as a whole.” -
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT A&E EDITOR: DYLAN HINTON
PAGE 5 DECEMBER 4, 2014
An experimental exhibition
THE PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT. Abbey Syme (‘16) showcases her pieces for the Junior Mince art exhibit, a show that encourages junior art students to experience creating artwork for an exhibition. Katie Nelson / Chips KATIE NELSON STAFF WRITER The Junior Mince art exhibit featured work by Art-390 seminar students and was on display in the Union and Gregerson galleries Nov. 13 through Dec. 4. The exhibit featured varied artwork from paintings to sculptures created this semester. “There isn’t necessarily a unifying theme throughout it, but I think that’s what makes it really exciting,” Abbey Syme (‘16) said. “Everyone wasn’t constrained or confined to a certain idea or theme, but everyone could explore their own theme, and being able to explain that through the artist statements, you get a wide variety of ideas and themes.” The work for the exhibition allowed students to experiment and individualize themselves as artists. “I think it’s a really good exploration of what it is to do a project completely outside of class that is completely what you are interested in,” Syme said. “It’s exciting to be able to work on things that are completely your own ideas and then be able to present them along with your peers.” A sense of experimentation was evident in the exhibition, with pieces such as a table covered in money by Rachel Madryga (‘16), exploring consumerism and excess, and paintings created using dirt by Olivia Heitz (‘16), exploring environmental elements. Assistant Professor in Art History and faculty exhibition organizer Kate Elliot believes this was possible because the Art-390 seminar provided room for this kind of experimentation. “It’s a great chance for them to experiment and push themselves … and it’s really fun to see them take risks,” Elliot said. “Some of the pieces are huge risks for the students this semester. They’ve really pushed themselves in a way that I haven’t seen them do before.” The exhibition gave junior artists the opportunity to explore new
ideas in a way that would help grow alongside the pieces. “It’s kind of a personal thing because you want to figure out something different that no one else would think of, because you don’t want it to be the same as everyone else’s,” Junior Mince artist Kassondra Johnson (‘16) said. “I guess in a way it helps expand your independence as an artist.” The seminar students had the chance to curate their own show and display their work in a way they saw fit. “When we curated the show we wanted to have a variety of things in each of the places,” Madryga said. “So when we set everything up, we wanted everything to be spaced out but have a good color balance within each other.” Junior Mince artist Carly Ellefsen (‘15) said the kinds of curation and professional skills the exhibition helped them build are important for the future. “It really prepares you to learn how to exhibit, what it’s like to curate a show and what looks good in what space, which a lot of people don’t think about,” Ellefsen said. “So when it’s time for you to do your own solo show, you know how to install it and how to present it.” According to Elliot, the skills they are building create a show that is unique and professional. “This is probably the best-looking, most cohesive [junior exhibition] show that we’ve had,” Elliot said. “It’s really a super professional show. This particular group of students and this particular show show a level of professionalism that we’ve seen but not quite so across the board before.” For Lars Johnson (‘16), working on the Junior Mince exhibition was a rewarding experience. “It’s great because other students on campus can see what we’re doing and it gives a sense of community for people in the art department,” Johnson said. “It’s really great just to hang out with people in the class.”
A WORK IN PROGRESS. Art-390 students spent their semester preparing pieces to be displayed in the CFA and Union Gallery. Katie Nelson / Chips
MAKING A STATEMENT. Rachel Madryga’s (‘16) installation piece, a table covered in fake money, explored themes of consumerism and excess. Katie Nelson / Chips
A MYRIAD OF MEDIUMS. Each artist featured in the exhibition worked with a different artisitc medium, including sculpture, painting and media. Katie Nelson / Chips
FEATURES
PAGE 6 DECEMBER 4, 2014
FEATURES EDITOR: CASEY DELIMA
Mtisi inspires joy, learning
MEETING HEROS. Mtisi greets Ntsiki Mashlaba Biko at the Biko Center in Ginsberg, South Africa. Casey DeLima / Chips
Students and colleagues shareAssociateProfessor of Africana Studies and History Richard Mtisi’s impact on Luther. EMILY CROWE STAFF WRITER “Richard [Mtisi] loves taking pictures; he loves giving his camera to people to take pictures,” Professor of Religion Guy Nave said. “If we are going somewhere, he is always like ‘Take a picture of me!’ He is always asking people to snap pictures of him. I’m trying to dodge the camera, but not so with Mtisi. His camera is full of pictures of Richard.” Associate Professor of Africana Studies and History Richard Mtisi has lead student trips to Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. He will lead five Luther students during a semester in Botswana as well as other students from institutions in the Associated Colleges of the Midwest. “I think Luther College is fortunate to have him, and I think he will represent the college well,” Nave said. “It’s an honor to the college to have one of our faculty members leading this program.” Leading the trip is an honor for the professor chosen. “I am looking forward to spending time there,” Mtisi said. “I am excited about the opportunity. This is the first time that a Luther professor is leading this program.”
PENGUIN PALS. Mtisi plays with the penguins at Boulder Beach in South Africa. Casey DeLima / Chips
When the Botswana program ends in May, Mtisi plans to stay in Africa for the summer. “My plan is to do a significant amount of research while I am on summer break so that when I come back to the U.S. in August, I will be ready to sit down and write,” Mtisi said. “Nothing has been confirmed yet, but I am hoping that I will be on sabbatical.” Mtisi deserves the semester abroad, according to Ami Gilbert (‘15), though many will miss him. “I think I speak for everyone who went on last year’s South Africa J-term when I say that we are so excited that he is going to Botswana, but we are disappointed that he won’t be here for graduation,” Gilbert said. Cate Anderson (‘14) attributes the connections many members of the Luther community make with Mtisi to his teaching style. “The cool thing about Mtisi is that he doesn’t ever tell you ‘colonialism is bad,’ but he guides you to that understanding. That process is incredibly important and is rare in the world outside of Luther,” Anderson said. Mtisi focuses on students as individuals, according to Anderson. “Richard Mtisi is one of those professors who meets you and then really invests in you as a person and as a student, which you can tell by his interactions,” Anderson said. Mtisi’s qualifications extend beyond the classroom, according to Nave. “With the South Africa course, he is from Zimbabwe, so he brings an experiential aspect to study abroad,”
“Richard Mtisi is one of those professors who meets you and then really invests in you as a person and as a student, which you can tell by his interactions.” -Cate Anderson (‘14)
ZIM-ZIM-ZIMBABWE. Mtisi shows pride for Zimbabwe at an Africa Cup soccer game in Cape Town, South Africa. Casey DeLima / Chips
Nave said. “Study abroad brings some of the issues from the theoretical and connects them to the practical. Mtisi grew up and has family living there, so his knowledge goes beyond textbook knowledge. Students benefit greatly from Mtisi’s experience, I couldn’t think of anyone better.” While Mtisi will be off campus from January to August 2015, Gilbert hopes more Luther students will have the opportunity to get to know Mtisi. “I would urge anyone to take a class with him because I feel like you would be missing out if you never got to,” Gilbert said. The most endearing and memorable part of Mtisi’s personality is his attitude, according to Gilbert. “We went to an aquarium towards the end of our trip to South Africa, and one of the tanks, you could crawl in and go under to stand in the middle of the tank,” Gilbert said. “He went in the tank and danced and pretended he was a fish. He was having a good old time
and when he came back out, he just had this jolly chuckle.” Multiple students on the trip caught Mtisi’s dance on film. “We tease him about the videos,” Gilbert said. “They sum him up. When I think of Mtisi, I think of his laugh, his attitude, his happy spirit—it’s contagious! When we showed him the videos, he laughed at himself and was glad that we were laughing. He was really excited about the aquarium in general.” Mtisi is in many pictures from the trip to the aquarium, largely by his own request. “I think it is it about the memories,” Mtisi said. “The first time we went there in 2007, I didn’t take a camera, and I was thinking ‘jeez, what have I done?’ These moments are really important, so you want to document them in some way. But I also do it for another reason: when I come back to the U.S., I look at what kinds of changes I need to make in my teaching, and pictures help.”
SMILE AND WAVE. Mtisi enjoys a visit to Shaka Aquarium in Durban, South Africa. Casey DeLima / Chips
FEATURES
PAGE 7
FEATURES EDITOR: CASEY DELIMA
DECEMBER 4, 2014
Oneota Review revamps process NOAH LANGHOLZ STAFF WRITER The Luther College student publication “Oneota Review” is preparing for a new season of submissions and is looking for new artists to fill its pages. Co-managing editors of the publication Margaret Yapp (‘15) and Laura Hayes (‘15) are excited to begin reviewing submissions and laying out the magazine. Guided by faculty adviser Professor of English David Faldet (‘79), they will begin reading through submissions and developing the publication in the early spring. “We selected our committee; that was the first thing we did,” Hayes said. “In the beginning of the year around 12 people submitted an interest in being a part of the selection committee, a volunteer opportunity, wherein people read the works that have been submitted anonymously.” Though the publication isn’t due to come out until the spring, Hayes and Yapp encouraged submissions throughout the fall semester. “What we’ve done in the fall is set ourselves up for that spring semester,” Yapp said. “We have had a deadline this fall, but it’s really just an early opportunity for people to submit. Not many people have sent in submissions. We are expecting most of them in the spring.” The Oneota Review editorial board wants to get oncampus representation for the submitted works. “This year we are trying to get a poetry slam or reading event after the publication on campus,” Hayes said. “We want to get an event where people can read their work and present
DISTINGUISHED PUBLICATION. The Oneota Review is scheduled to be published in the spring, but editors have already begun collecting submissions. Casey DeLima / Chips
what they’ve done.” The co-editors are looking to continue developing a variety of submissions. “In terms of magazine material, we want to up the art content,” Yapp said. “We tend to get a lot of writing, but we would love to include more visual submissions. We would also really like to advertise with non-English majors and find people who aren’t necessarily in that sphere to submit.” Despite the anxiety that some people may feel about publishing personal artwork,
the co-managing editors encourage individuals to share what they make. “Just submit,” Hayes said. “The worst that will happen is we’ll say it needs more work. However, this is a very low-risk anthology because it is a group of your peers. Any opportunity to get your work published is always excellent. This is a great way to get feedback and put your foot through the door.” The co-managing editors emphasize that the selection process is anonymous. “It’s always intimidating,”
Yapp said. “But we’re all students and we understand how brave it is to try,” Yapp said. Faculty involved with the publication endorse how important it is for students to take keen interest in the publication and get it off the ground artistically and organizationally. “The key thing I want to say is that it is a student publication,” Professor of English Nancy Barry said. “We rely on the leadership of the editors and we rely on student interest
to generate good material for the magazine. So the key thing is that anyone who has artistry should really consider submitting. That’s the best thing we can do.” Students can submit artwork to this year’s issue anytime between now and the deadlines on Jan. 27 and March 8. “It’s too late to be an editor, but there are many jobs that students can find in the fall,” Hayes said. “If you’re interested in submitting, email your content to oneotareview@ luther.edu or SPO 1909.”
Community aids international learning ERIKA STORVICK STAFF WRITER
As the holiday season approaches, it is a great time to think of ways to give back to the community. For many Decorah community members, giving back is second nature. Decorah residents have been giving back for years by welcoming Luther’s international students for the holidays, serving as Friendship Families or even teaching students how to drive. “Giving is living,” Decorah resident Ruby Hermeier (‘53) said. “I feel honored to have been a part of these students’ lives.” This effort to connect the Decorah community with Luther’s international students takes place in a variety of forms. Many families in the Decorah area sign up to participate in the Friendship Families program through the Diversity Center, which links first-year international students to a family. “The program is very much what the
families and students want to do together,” Administrative Assistant of the Diversity Center Jake Dyer said. Friendship Families and students are invited to a welcome potluck at the beginning of the year, along with seasonal events throughout the year, such as pumpkin carving, as a way of introducing these new students to American culture. Many international students connect with their families outside of these events as well. The program provides students with the opportunity to form connections beyond campus. “It’s a really neat opportunity, not only for the student but for the families involved,” Student Support Services Advisor Chivonne Marlow said. “For the community, it gives us an opportunity to learn about students and meet someone from another country. We like exposing
our children to that.” Friendship Families are not the only way Decorah community members get involved. Charlie Langton and Linda Elkins host a Thanksgiving dinner for international students who stay on campus, welcoming students to participate in this American tradition. Langton has been hosting Thanksgiving at his house for years, this year hosting more than 19 students. “Come eat, drink and be merry, give thanks that we have met each other,” the invitation said. Others, like Hermeier, offer up their time and resources in different ways. Through “Learning to Drive with Ms. Ruby,” Hermeier has taught more than 30 Luther students how to drive. “There is a real need there,” Hermeier said. “These students don’t have an opportunity to learn how to drive
“It’s so rewarding to see the joy.” -Ruby Hermeier (‘53)
otherwise.” Hermeier began teaching international students how to drive in 2010, starting with her daughter’s friend. After teaching her, word got out and the students started calling. Each student of Ms. Ruby’s receives about 20 hours of driving instruction and learns everything from the parts of the car to the rules of the road. These lessons are basically free; Hermeier’s students pay only for the gas used in their lesson. “I volunteer the car and my time,” Hermeier said. “It’s so rewarding to see the joy; it’s sort of a selfish thing. And [the students] are dependable. I’ve never had a scratch.” Hermeier, Langton and Marlow are just a few examples of Decorah community members volunteering their time and resources. Recognizing their efforts to incorporate international students into the Decorah community reminds us about what the holidays are all about: giving back.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
PAGE 8 DECEMBER 4, 2014
A&E EDITOR: DYLAN HINTON
Christmas at Luther seeks peace
A COLLABORATIVE CONCERT. Christmas at Luther combines the musical talents of six choirs, Symphony Orchestra and Luther Ringers for five performances celebrating the holiday season. Alison Vuolo / Chips ALISON VUOLO STAFF WRITER DYLAN HINTON A&E EDITOR In an annual tradition, all six choirs will perform alongside the Symphony Orchestra and the Luther Ringers on Thursday, Dec. 4 at 5:45 p.m. for the first Christmas at Luther performance of the year. In the few weeks leading up to Christmas at Luther, countless hours are spent by staff, faculty and students to get ready for the five performances which, cumulatively, fill 8,000 seats every year. “We try to have a theme, most of the mass pieces and then sometimes the whole concert planned out before graduation,” Coorinator for Music Organizations and Marketing Eric Ellingsen (‘99) said. Others involved in the planning process include Aurora and Cathedral Choir conductor Jennaya Robison (‘97), Symphony Orchestra conductor Daniel Baldwin, Nordic Choir conductor Allen Hightower, Collegiate
Chorale and Norsemen conductor Andrew Last (‘97), Cantorei conductor Linda Martin, Organist and Luther Ringers conductor Gregory Peterson and Campus Pastor Mike Blair. “[Planning Christmas at Luther] is a collaboration from the get-go,” Peterson said. “From sitting down with the artistic team at the end of the last Christmas at Luther and saying, ‘What went well, what did we like?’ dreaming up a theme, right down to the nitty gritty details of who moves when and where.” The theme for the 2014 Christmas at Luther is “And on Earth, Peace.” The historical context of the theme is significant this year, recognizing the 100th anniversary of the 1914 Christmas Truce during World War I. “The Allied and German soldiers stopped fighting on Christmas Eve,” Ellingsen said. “They started singing together and eventually they were playing soccer and exchanging gifts and addresses and pictures.” Last elaborated on the unique nature of the Christmas Truce. “I think the theme, bringing in the 1914 Christmas Truce, is a beautiful idea,” Last
said. “This was a day of peace. It’s probably something that won’t ever happen again in our world, that these warring countries took a day off to just be together at Christmas.” As campus heats up with preparation, it is clear just how many people put work into this tradition. “It is an enormously collaborative thing,” Hightower said. “It’s an opportunity for the whole campus to come together.” According to Peterson, the collaboration among ensembles and musicians, including the handbell choir and organ, is part of what makes Christmas at Luther so engaging for the audience and performers alike. “I think the very sound of the handbells in this concert is unique and it tends to be a moment that people wait for and enjoy,” Peterson said. “The organ is also a unique sound in our show. A lot of our peer schools hold their Christmas concerts in a gymnasium or other place where an organ isn’t available.” According to Symphony member Sadie Botine (‘15), bringing so many of Luther’s ensembles together creates a high-energy environment full of unique challenges and
rewards. “It’s great to be able to perform this different kind of music with other musicians at Luther, but also can be pretty difficult,” Botine said. “Balancing all the ensembles, making sure each part is heard, and blending these various sounds into one cohesive song takes a lot of work, but in the end it’s worth it.” Nordic Choir member Casey Tecklenburg (‘16) is in his third Christmas at Luther this year and spoke to the collaborative nature. “Christmas at Luther is a culmination of the musical community that exists at Luther,” Tecklenburg said. “I think it’s one of the highest art forms for us to be able to collaborate with each other. To do that while spreading joy during this holiday season, it’s powerful.” Christmas at Luther performances will be Thursday, Dec. 4 at 5:45 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2:30 p.m. in the Center for Faith and Life. There are still a handful of tickets for the Friday 9:15 p.m. show available for purchase. Tickets can be purchased through the Ticket Office and range from $20-35.
Track review:
“Shut Your Mouth, It’s Christmas” LUKE STENNES SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR A Sunny Day in Glasgow brings their dreamy, psychedelic, shoegazy pop sound to the Christmas genre with “Shut Your Mouth, It’s Christmas.” Despite the confrontational title, this track could not be more bubbly and enjoyable. The first verse ends with a plea: “Shut your mouth / open up / it’s Christmas!” This sets the tone for the rest of the song. There isn’t really a political agenda. It doesn’t
try to fit in with any of the pop music tropes at the moment. It’s just a Christmas song. As the band sweeps into the chorus, I’m reminded of the “Christmas Gift for You” album showcasing the production of Phil Spector. A Sunny Day in Glasgow throws back to tracks like “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” while infusing their unique, modern sound, which results in a really cool Christmas song. I have to say, coming into this song I was skeptical right off the bat.
Christmas music is a genre I hold very near and dear to my heart, and I did not want to hear anybody mess with the system. But I have to say, A Sunny Day in Glasgow retains some cool elements from early ‘60s pop while still innovating with their 2014 sound, and the result is infectious. For the best in new independent music, tune in to KWLC Radio Monday through Friday from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. KWLC can be found at 1240am on the radio dial or online at kwlc.luther.edu.
Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm | Thursday 9am - 8pm
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OPINION
PAGE 9
MANAGING EDITOR: SARAH KING
DECEMBER 4, 2014
Why choose Des Moines? Career Corner
If moving to a small-town college in Iowa seemed like a big transition, you may be someone who is hesitant to look toward Des Moines for employment. Think again. After learning more about the breadth of opportunities and rich culture present in this up-and-coming city, you may find yourself having a change of heart. For starters, here are some quick facts about the greater Des Moines area: Total Population*: 594,600 Median Age*: 35.2 Unemployment Rate**: 4.6% (7.4% National) Average Salary**: $48,860 ($49,800 National) *2014 U.S. Census Bureau estimate **2013 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Besides being the state’s capital, Des Moines has several appealing draws. Des Moines is: 1) home to the Iowa caucuses; 2) a major center for the
insurance industry; 3) the home of five well-regarded universities; 4) a hub for a number of cultural events like the Des Moines Arts Festival and World Food Festival, and a plethora of museums; 5) home to highly acclaimed restaurants and parks for public enjoyment. In fact, this year Forbes ranked Des Moines at #2 for “Best Places for Business and Careers” and #3 in the “Top 15 U.S. Cities with Emerging Downtowns.” Des Moines truly is a city that has everything college-educated young adults are looking for in a big city, with less of what they don’t want. According to the Des Moines Business Record’s “Brag Book” publication, “You can get just about anywhere in 20 minutes.” This gives Des Moines residents more time for themselves, their family and their life. Here is what other organizations have to say about this hidden gem of a city: #1 “Strongest Local Economy” – Policom (2014) (#2 in 2012 & 2013) Policom is an organization that specifically studies the statistical analyses of economies in more than 350 urban areas. They focus on the past 10 years to estimate the economic growth of each city. #4 “Places with the Most Job Opportunities per Capita” – Beyond. com (2014) According to Beyond.com, the ratio
of potential employees to job openings is three to one. That is significantly less than many other major cities. There is a low unemployment rate in Des Moines along with a low cost of living. Typical salaries start at $43,000! #2 “Best Cities to Start a Business” – “The Street”/“Forbes” (2013) “As one of the largest insurance hubs in the nation, as well as having a large banking outfit, [Des Moines’] many smaller companies are finding success selling product solutions back into those industries.” – “The Street” #1 “Wealthiest City in America” – NBC’s “Today Show” (2014) “If you’re looking for the city where regular folk can live a rich life, try Des Moines, Iowa. The locals may not be millionaires but the city’s cost of living is almost 10 percent below the average for the country. That means that money goes a lot further there.” – NBC’s “Today” show #1 “Best City for Families” – “Kiplinger” (2012) Even with the cost of living being so
low, the standard of living is high. This results in wonderful public schools that receive high test scores, affordable houses and reduced rush hour traffic. #25 “Best Metro for Overall WellBeing” – Gallup (2014) Through the analysis of emotional, behavioral and physical health, work environment and ability to obtain essential necessities, Gallup-Healthways ranked Des Moines 25 out of 189 areas. #12 “Best State for Businesses” – “Forbes” (2013) “Forbes uses six business metrics in its annual survey to determine its ‘best state for business’ ratings: cost, labor, supply, regulatory environment, current economic climate growth prospective and quality of life.”- “Brag Book” Think Des Moines as you start your job or summer internship search and join hundreds of Luther alums now thriving in this up and coming city.
“Des Moines truly is a city that has everything college-educated young adults are looking for in a big city, with less of what they don’t want.” - Hanna Knutson (‘15) and Bailey Devine (‘16)
Hanna Knutson (‘15) and Bailey Devine (‘16)
A career in computer science opens countless doors for your future. Percentage of New STEM Jobs by Area through 2018 Physical Sciences 7% Computer Support 7% Database Admin. 2% Traditional Engineering 16%
Computing 71%
Mathematics 2% Life Sciences 4%
Software Engineering 27%
CS/IS Research 1% Other Computing 3%
System Analysis 10% Computer Networking 21%
Data Source: US-BLS Employment Projections, 2008–2018 (http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_table_102.pdf).
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OPINION
PAGE 10 DECEMBER 4, 2014
Luther College Chips Chips is a student publication of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. The paper is designed, composed edited and managed entirely by Luther students. It is published weekly during the academic year, excluding the month of January. The opinion section is designed to provide a forum for Chips, its staff members and the Luther community. Opinions expressed in articles, editorials and columns do not necessarily represent the views of the Chips staff. The author is solely responsible for opinions expressed in Chips commentary. Chips will not accept submitted articles or campus announcements. Submissions for letters to the editor should be submitted as a Microsoft Word document to chipsedt@ luther.edu with Letter to the Editor as a subject line. Letters to the Editor are subject to editing without changing the meaning of the letter. Authors will not be notified of changes prior to publishing. Letters must be signed, 300-400 words and submitted before Sunday at 5:00 p.m. the week before production. Publication of all letters is at the discretion of the editor. Contact Chips: Phone: 563-387-1044 Fax: 563-387-2072 Email: chipsedt@luther.edu Advertising: chipsads@luther.edu Website: lutherchips.com Facebook: facebook.com/LutherChips Twitter: @LutherChips Fall 2014 Staff Editor-in-Chief: Managing Editor: News Editors:
Walker Nyenhuis Sarah King Anna Jeide Margaret Yapp Features Editor: Casey DeLima A&E Editor: Dylan Hinton Sports Editor: Julia Joseph Staff Writers: Makeda Barkley Abby Carpenter Emily Crowe Laura Hayes Matt Helm Nils Johnson Noah Langholz Danny May Jenna Nelson Katie Nelson Maggie Steinberg Erika Storvick Bailey Mulholland Alison Vuolo Rachel Williams Head Copy Editor: Katie Hale Copy Editors: Cameron Meyferth Bethany Seavers Templeton Ad Representative: Alex Brandt Sam Ward Ad Accountant: Tyler Hovey Photography Coordinator: Casey DeLima Photographers: Abby Carpenter Bjorn Myhre Design Technician: Bjorn Myhre Web Manager: Isaac Davis Distribution Manager: Elizabeth Hurley Adviser: David Faldet
MANAGING EDITOR: SARAH KING
Playing smarter makes games safer Letter to the Editor
The first time I ever watched a rugby game was my junior year over fall break to support my sister’s team. I was concerned to say the least. Why would anyone want to play a sport in which the only equipment that is semi-enforced, by parents, is a mouth guard? Upon watching the sport in mass confusion and an odd sense of wonder, I made one important realization: injuries did not occur as frequently as expected and when they did they were minimal, such as a twisted ankle or nosebleed. Upon talking to the players of this team a common theme did appear: playing smart was the key to avoid injuries. The players who chose to wear a scrum cap (to help reduce any blows to the head) did this due to the position
they were playing or the reputation of the opposing team. One told me they were forced to wear one by their mother. A realization struck me: I heard an analogy once in regards to the issue surrounding protective equipment worn in games. “If you told a kid to jump out of a moving van without any pads, they would think you were crazy. If they were wearing pads, they might actually debate doing it.” When you have no protection you learn to play safer; you understand that you are breakable. Once I understood this logic, I watched another game this fall break and clearly noted the way players strategized in order to avoid injury. Predominately, individuals chose not to make risky moves that could easily cause harm to themselves or an opponent. I love athletics, especially games that
include high-contact such as hockey. Protective equipment is important, but I believe a greater theme needs to be taught in every level of high-contact sports: play smart, not risky. Changing the way that these games are played is not going to decrease the injury rate, but it will encourage athletes to find ways around the rules in order to do whatever it takes to win. We are currently seeing this is in the NFL: risky plays help win, but they also create a much bigger chance of concussions and other serious injuries, such as knee issues and compound fractures. Comparing football to rugby is not exactly similar, but they do share common themes of play. Let us help every athlete by playing strategically and smart to get wins, not risking their athletic career or life for a W.
“...a greater theme needs to be taught in every level of highcontact sports: play smarter, not risky.” - Karly Karst (‘15)
Karly Karst (‘15)
Realizing smartphone capabilities Letter to the Editor We have all heard how smartphones are changing us for the worse. Every week a new study states how smart phones wreck biological or psychological havoc on us. The “Atlantic,” for example, recently published an article which states that consistently looking down at a phone places a 60 pound strain on the neck. According to the “Atlantic,” that’s roughly equivalent to giving an averaged sized aardvark a piggy back ride. Are smartphones really this bad for us? Or are we simply
THE USUAL
paying the price for a groundbreaking advancement in human technology? Many of us hold almost all the world’s information at our fingertips. We constantly possess the ability to educate ourselves on anything at any moment in the day. It would appear that we are living the dream of all humanity: instantaneous information accessible whenever. This may be true, but what about tweeting, sending a snap chat or checking your email for the billionth time today? Social experiments seem trite nowadays and often fail in getting real answers. One recent example is non-profit Hollaback’s catcalling video in New York City. But what if smartphone users challenged themselves to read as much as possible everyday, rather than send the funniest snap chats. I’m curious to see what could happen if every person utilized their smartphone for the greatest benefit as opposed to getting the most gratification. If we all accomplished this, maybe everyone’s incessant use of smartphones would be worth the negatives. Or should we just give that aardvark a free piggy back ride? John Werner (‘15)
Sarah King
SPORTS
PAGE 11
DECEMBER 4, 2014
SPORTS EDITOR: JULIA JOSEPH
Serres represents Luther at National Championships BAILEY MULHOLLAND STAFF WRITER Luther’s own, Tricia Serres (‘16) was among the collegiate runners from across the country gathered for the NCAA Division III Cross Country National Championships in Mason, Ohio on Saturday, Nov. 22. Serres placed second at the Regional Meet in Pella, Iowa on Nov. 15. She qualified to race as an individual this year after competing at the Championships her past two seasons with a full team. According to Serres, she prepared as she always has regardless. “We work on different parts of the race throughout the season,” Serres said. “Things like breaking the [6 kilometer] course into thirds… with each 2k getting faster, starting off smooth and conservative and then getting to work in the middle and charging to the finish line.” Championship season, which includes the Conference, Regional and National meets, is where all of these tools come together for a full-out race according to Serres. Entering the National meet, Serres tried not to concern herself too much with her competitors, choosing instead to focus on her own race. “I don’t really look at the field,” Serres said. “I have an idea of the people who will be up at the top, but don’t really stress about it. I approach it the same as other races, feeling confident that I can do it.” Teammates and friends made good luck cards for Serres before she left, and a handful made the trek to Ohio as a cheering squad. “I felt supported even without [a full team] there,” Serres said. Serres placed 36 of 275 competitors at the
Norse of the Week JULIA JOSEPH SPORTS EDITOR Jayden DeVilbiss (‘15) continues to make a large impact on Luther’s wrestling team. In the team’s home meet on Nov. 25, DeVilbiss earned extra points for Luther, helping them clutch their 36-12 victory over UWEau Claire. Starting his final season, DeVilbiss has high hopes for the team and himself. Chips: What is your favorite part of the sport and being able to compete for Luther's team? DeVilbiss: My favorite part of the sport is the same as my favorite part of being on Luther's team. I love the camaraderie we have for each other both on and off the mat. We are less like a team and more like a family. What are some personal and team goals you have for the upcoming season? My goal for this season is to be a national champion at my weight class. I also believe that the team we have this year as a whole is capable of bringing home a national title.
Championships, one place shy of earning her third All-American honor in Cross Country. She finished the race in 22:27.8. “I came into the championships feeling the best I ever have physically and just excited to race,” Serres said. “It wasn’t the race I was hoping for or the feeling I had wanted for Nationals, but it was fun to be there [and] to have the opportunity to represent the Norse.” Serres attributes some of her race to “getting swept away a little” and being unable to execute her usual race plan. “I think at Nationals there’s no patient start, you just have to get out… with all the other runners and just put yourself out there,” Serres said. “I guess I just didn’t have the closing that I wanted to have.” Women’s Cross Country Coach Yarrow Pasche was proud of Serres’ performance but has confidence she is capable of more. “Tricia’s a phenomenal runner and represents Luther and the team extremely well,” Pasche said. “She didn’t have the best day, but that’s not a reflection of her as a runner.” Regardless, Serres appreciated the opportunity to cap off her season at the National Championships. “Nationals brings together the best in the country,” Serres said. “To toe the line there is an honor.” Pasche is looking forward to continue the development of a young varsity team and appreciates Serres’ leadership skills. “It’s been really inspiring to me to see Tricia come into a leadership role on the team now that she’s an upperclassman,” Pasche said. “She’s always been a great leader, but we graduated some strong leaders last year and now that they’re gone, she’s risen into a leadership role and is thriving there.”
How long have you been wrestling? I started wrestling when I was 6 years old and have been wrestling for 16 years. Why did you first start wrestling? My parents bought me some wrestling figures, and I thought they were so cool. After that, I knew I wanted to be a wrestler. What have you learned through wrestling the past four years? I have learned that the people who put in the time and work hard everyday will see success not only on the mat but off of it as well. The hard work ethic developed in the wrestling room carries over into both school and the real world. What meet are you most excited for this season? The national meet out in Pennsylvania this spring because, in the long run, that’s the only one that really matters.
LEADING THE PACK. Tricia Serres ç SODFHV DW 5HJLRQDOV RQ 1RY Photo courtesy of Ally Fillmore Serres, too, is thinking of her team’s future. “There’s a lot of potential here, and we’re excited to keep improving,” Serres said.
What does your coach do to help prepare you before competing? Our coaches are some of the best in the nation. They do a fantastic job of preparing us for competition not just on the days we are competing, but every day in practice by pushing us to work our hardest and make conscious efforts toward continuous improvement. Since wrestling is a more individualized sport, how do you guys show team support? Wrestling is both an individual and team sport. Just like any other sports team, the success of the whole is based off of the success of each individual on the team. The success of each individual wrestler can be attributed to everyone in the practice room, because without them, the individuals who get to represent the team in competition wouldn't be at the level they are.
READY TO WRESTLE. Jayden DeVilbiss (‘15) looks IRUZDUG WR KLV Ć QDO VHDVRQ Photo courtesy of Luther sports
SPORTS
PAGE 12
SPORTS EDITOR: JULIA JOSEPH
DECEMBER 4, 2014
Women’s basketball prepares new team
Weekly Standings Men’s Swimming IIAC 2-0 1-1 0-0 0-2
Loras Coe Luther Simpson
Overall 3-2 1-6 0-3 2-2
Recent Scores
Nov. 22 vs. UW-La Crosse L 65-172
Upcoming Schedule
Dec. 5-7 Rochester Invitational @ Rochester 7 p.m.
Women’s Swimming IIAC 2-0 1-1 0-0 0-2
Loras Coe Luther Simpson
Overall 3-2 5-2 1-2 1-3
Recent Scores
Nov. 22 vs. UW-La Crosse L 112-131
Upcoming Schedule
Dec. 5-7 Rochester Invitational @ Rochester 9:30 a.m.
HARD WORK PAYS OFF. The team is using the acronym “GRIT” as their season motto for guts, resilience, intensity and toughness. Danny May / Chips DANNY MAY STAFF WRITER The women’s basketball team is off to a promising start this season claiming a 76-62 victory at the Saturday, Nov. 29, home opener against UW-River Falls. The women have a different squad this year, according to Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach David Foley. A majority of the players are new, resulting in a low pre-season ranking. “Coming into the season, we’re not going to be ranked highly in the conference, and we know that,” guard Anna Madrigal (‘17) said. “But we’re ready to prove ourselves and to prove what Luther women’s basketball is all about.” The team listed a number of goals for the 2014-15 season. “12 of the 22 girls were
not on the team last year,” Foley said. “We want to take this non-conference season to work on playing in our system and learning to play together.” Working on building and getting used to one another’s playing style in the early season is important for the team according to Foley. “We want to be playing our best basketball come January and February when the Iowa Conference season hits,” Foley said. “We have 11 nonconference games to come together as a team and get ready for conference play.” The team is looking for a constant effort this year, implementing an aggressive playing style and a foundation of positive work ethic. “Our goal is to come together as a team and work hard,” Madrigal said. “We want to show up to
practice and be energized, intense and ready to show resilience.” Making this happen will be a team effort and take dedication from everyone on the team to their goals. “We never want to be comfortable, neither within the 40 minutes of one game nor the season as a whole,” point guard Moran Lonning (‘16) said. “Everyone’s goal is to be a conference champ, too.” The women will travel to Nashville, Tenn. over winter break for the Music City Classic to face Curry College and Kenyon College before getting into conference play, where they will be challenged in every game in the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (IIAC). “Every game is a tough matchup,” Foley said. “Wartburg is always a big opponent.” The early season work they put in helps the team mentally and physically prepare for the tough
games ahead. “Once we get into conference play, that’s where the big games happen,” guard Carrie Kilen (‘15) said. “We want to keep improving with every game.” The team will play each conference team twice: once at home and once on the road. They will face Wartburg College on Jan. 7 and Feb. 18, which will be in the Regents Center. Other major conference games include Loras College on Jan. 24 and Feb. 11, and Coe College on Jan. 17 and 31. When asked for one defining word for the season, each interviewee answered “GRIT,” an acronym the team has created for guts, resilience, intensity and toughness. “It doesn't matter who we’re playing; everyone has to have that intensity,” Lonning said. “We have to stay true and committed to our playing style.”
Wrestling #5 Coe #10 Wartburg #8 Luther Cornell #15 Loras Dubuque Buena Vista Simpson Central
IIAC 1-0 1-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-1 0-1
Recent Scores
Overall 1-0 1-0 1-0 0-0 0-0 0-1 0-3 1-1 0-1
Nov. 25 vs. UW-Eau Claire W 36-12
Upcoming Schedule
Dec. 10 vs. UW-La Crosse 7 p.m.
Men’s Basketball Dubuque Wartburg Coe Central Loras Buena Vista Simpson Luther
IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Recent Scores
Overall 6-0 5-1 3-1 2-1 3-2 3-3 3-4 2-3
Nov. 29 @ Honolulu, HI vs. University of Pacific L 55-60 Nov. 28 @Honolulu, HI vs. Puget Sound Univ. L 61-63
Upcoming Schedule
Dec. 6 vs. Viterbo 4 p.m.
Women’s Basketball Wartburg Simpson Dubuque Luther Central Loras Buena Vista Coe
IIAC 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0
Recent Scores
Nov. 29 vs. UW-River Falls W 76-62 Nov. 25 @ Platteville L 59-77
Overall 6-0 6-1 4-1 4-1 3-1 4-2 4-3 2-2
Upcoming Schedule
Dec. 6 vs. Viterbo 2 p.m.
CHASING SUCCESS. (From left) Moran Lonning (‘16), Ashley Tewes (‘16) and Brynne Stellner (‘17) push each other to prepare for the upcoming season. Danny May / Chips