Sept 13 by MediaOCU

THE CAMPUS

September 13, 2017 – Volume 110 Issue 56

Students happy about caf food as Chick-fil-A construction delays Emily Wollenberg

Chartwells to hire more students at new Alvin’s

STAFF WRITER

Chartwells, the university’s food service provider, has impressed some students with its food options, but officials have yet to open the Chickfil-A Express students were promised. Chartwells replaced Sodexo as the university’s food service provider this academic year. They planned to replace Alvin’s Cafe with a Chick-fil-A Express and a market, while keeping the name “Alvin’s.” This originally was scheduled to be finished by the start of school, but was delayed. Chartwells dining programs “bring students together and serve as centers of academic life on the campuses we serve,” according to its website, chartwellshighered.com. Their website also says the company sources seasonally and locally and offers healthy, natural, nutrient-rich items. Kalen Castor, cell and molecular biology sophomore, said she likes the new food provider and enjoys eating in the caf after soccer practice. Carlos Sanchez, English junior, said he’s pleased with quality of the new food options. “I think their food is fresher than Sodexo’s, and I’m glad

Elina Moon Student Publications Grill Chef Willie Butler serves a breakfast burrito to Jorge Guerra, dance senior, Sept. 10 in the caf. Butler was able to keep his grill job despite being employed by Sodexo, the university’s previous food provider.

that we got to keep the same staff,” he said. “The food that comes out of what used to be ‘Classics’ is really well seasoned without being overbearing.” Kelly Pan, nursing sophomore, said she did not enjoy the available food options when Sodexo was the provider, but appreciates the fresher and more diverse food options. “I would marry that salad bar,” Pan said. “I love having the ability to build my own salad how I want it.” Chick-fil-A Express, a limited menu restaurant, was set to open in August along with a market area. Issues with code compliance pushed construc-

tion back for the Market and Chick-fil-A. Lori Walker, director of auxiliary services, wrote in an email sent to students during the summer that the Chick-fil-A would open in October due to construction delays. “I don’t know if that’s still obtainable because of some issues we’ve had with permitting and the city of Oklahoma City,” she said Monday. Chick-fil-A will open this fall, though, Walker said. The issue was resolved and construction will resume once the permit is approved, Walker said. There is a temporary Market

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that offers snacks, groceries and Starbucks drinks. Chartwells officials said they have worked hard to retain many of the employees from Sodexo that wanted to stay at OCU, and they are excited to be on campus. “Everybody has been welcoming and really made us feel like part of the family, which is one of the wonderful things about the school,” Catering Director Emily Anderson said. “They’ve been receptive to the food and seem to really enjoy it.”

Students will soon have two more options for campus employment. Students can now apply to work at the Market at Alvin’s and will get the chance to work at a future Chick-fil-A Express. The original Alvin’s Cafe was replaced with a temporary market this semester. The Chick-fil-A Express will open alongside the market later this semester, according to officials. Three students work at the market as baristas, and one has the title of “student supervisor.” Michelle Gaffney, dining services assistant director of retail, said she hopes to hire at least four more student baristas this semester. Student baristas start at $9 per hour with free coffee and tea during each shift. For every five hours they work, they get a free meal in the caf. Besides making drinks, barista duties include manning the cash register, washing dishes, sweeping, and stocking shelves. “All of our employees learn everything so we can help each other out,” Gaffney said. “We like to have fun and experiment with drinks that aren’t on the menu. Our goal is to make everyone happy.” Any student can apply for a barista position, but those with food or customer service experience will get priority, Gaffney said. To apply for a position, visit altogethergreat.com and search for the Oklahoma City location of Chartwells. From there, students can access the job description and log into the application via Facebook, LinkedIn or email. Shay Box, design and production freshman and barista, said she works 10 to 15 hours a week. “I was a barista at a local coffee place in my hometown and was bummed when I had to leave to come to school here, so I’m happy I could find a place to keep being a barista,” Box said. “Making coffee is my favorite part because there’s just something cool about it, and I’m not ashamed to say I’m addicted to it myself.” By Associate Editor Sage Tokach

Black Student Association event posters ripped in Methodist Hall Zoe Travers

NEWS EDITOR

Students and officials are questioning the motives behind a recent vandalism on campus. Black Student Association posters were torn in half Friday and left on the wall in Methodist Hall. One poster was ripped near the elevator, and one was torn down in front of the east entrance. Michael Burns, director of housing and residence life, sent

out an email Friday regarding the incident. “Actions like this can cause students to feel unsafe and unwanted and move us away from respect, learning and inclusivity,” Burns wrote. “No one among us should feel marginalized or threatened by oppressive acts.” Burns refused to comment further Monday. Kevin Culbertson, head RA for Methodist Hall, said students are encouraged to reach out to

their RAs, hall directors or the Housing and Residence Life Office. He also said university police were not able to identify any suspects from the dorm security video. “I would hate to think that someone would do that intentionally,” Culbertson said. Bradd Brown, chief of police, was unavailable for comment Monday. Daniel Etti-Williams, acting junior, said he heard about the incident through the email and

was upset. “I think it’s one thing to tear a poster down, and it’s another thing to tear it in half and leave it up,” Etti-Williams said. “If we take it for what it is, it seems like someone doesn’t like the unification of black students.” Etti-Williams is also a Methodist RA and a black student, though not part of BSA. He said he’s glad people are talking about it. “I’m not surprised to see people defacing the halls and

student organization posters, but it’s still disappointing,” he said. “They responded to it in the best ways they could.” Ashleigh Robinson, musical theater junior and BSA member, said she was shocked when she read the email and hopes officials can do more to address racial issues on an administrative level. “I don’t feel particularly threatened, but I do worry for the students who feel like it was an attack on them,” Robinson said. “It makes me sad that some stu-

dents don’t feel welcome or safe at a university they’re spending so much money to go.” She said she encourages students to feel empowered to talk about racial concerns and to be a listening ear to others. “It’s better for someone to feel uncomfortable talking about something than for another person to feel uncomfortable living,” Robinson said.

Floridian students seek support in Hurricane Irma aftermath Grace Babb

STAFF WRITER

Students from Florida are reacting to Hurricane Irma’s damage in their home state by coming together and relying on the campus community for moral support. Hurricane Irma hit the Florida Keys on Sunday and was downgraded to a tropical storm Monday as it moved into Georgia. Many Floridian students have family living in Irma’s path. Billy Speed, music theater senior, has immediate family living on Florida’s east coast. “I am always worried about any hurricane that has Florida or any part of the United States in its path, no matter what its size or category,” he said. “Harvey, for me, is a warning for what a storm can do to cities not even on the coast.” Speed said he is most worried about how reconstruction in Florida will burden those efforts already taking place in Houston, which was hit Aug. 25 by Hurricane Harvey. “What worries me is the massive strain to relief and recovery efforts that Irma will cause, one that will burden efforts in Texas,” Speed said. Ben Hild, vocal performance junior, said his family, though in a less affected region, had to make significant changes to their house to protect it. “They have all had to board up windows and get everything out of their yards,” he said. “I will continue to have faith that everyone back home is doing what needs to be done to be best sheltered and unharmed.” Amanda Kronhaus, acting junior, has many friends and family members in Florida. Kronhaus, who is 2017 Florida Cinderella Woman, worries for her sister queens in Miami and along the coast. “I am from the Orlando area, so that is where most of my family is. Overall, I am just praying for my state,” Kronhaus said. Kronhaus said she is concerned, especially after seeing photos

M MEDIAOCU.com

OCU HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS

I ask the campus community to rally behind us Floridians like we did with the Houstonians.

WHERE TO DONATE:

Amanda Kronhaus acting junior

from Hurricane Harvey. “I ask the campus community to rally behind us Floridians like we did with the Houstonians. I know there are less of us, but we will need your prayers and any help you can provide,” Kronhaus said. Religious Life is still taking donations through September to benefit victims. The Rev. Dr. Charles Neff said donations collected will go to the victims of both storms. Students and faculty can donate baby food, diapers, toiletries, pet supplies, and other materials by placing them in blue bins, which can be found in various campus buildings.

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- Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center - Walker Center for Arts and Sciences - the east wing of Kramer School of Nursing - Meinders School of Business - Ann Lacy Admissions and Visitor Center - Clara E. Jones Administration Building - Edith Kinney Gaylord Center - Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel - Gold Star Memorial Building - Walker Hall - Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center - Sarkey’s Science and Law Center.

WHAT TO DONATE: - Toiletries - Diapers - Baby food - 5-gallon buckets with resealable lid - Liquid laundry detergent - Liquid household cleaner

- Air freshener - Insect repellent - Scrub brush - Hand wipes - Sponges - Clothespins - Clothesline

- Heavy duty trash bags - Dust masks - Dishwashing gloves - Work gloves - Pet food & supplies

Students and faculty also can make monetary donations in the University-Church Relations office in Room 402 in Clara E. Jones Administration Building.

Visit MediaOCU.com for updates on hurricane relief efforts.

Donations will be shipped to the United Methodist Committee on Relief and will benefit victims of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

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See pictures from OCUStripped’s upcoming show

opinion Title IX revamp reverses progress in campus safety One-in-five women and one-in-16 men will be sexually assaulted while in college. More than 90 percent of the victims will not report the assault, according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. Title IX ensures that sexual assault reports that are received are taken seriously. Title IX is a 1972 law that requires schools that receive federal funds not to discriminate based on sex. It covers discrimination based on sexual harassment, pregnancy, sexual violence, dating and domestic violence, stalking, and hate crimes. The Title IX law itself doesn’t mention sexual violence, but interpretations by the courts set an understanding that Title IX requires schools to address sexual violence. U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos announced Thursday that the Department of Education plans to revamp Title IX guidelines. DeVos said the Obama Administration’s policies are not being rescinded, but eventually will be replaced, according to CBS News. DeVos wants to roll back protections of the accusers and give more rights to the accused, saying “if

everything is harassment, then nothing is.” The Obama Administration responded to high rates of sexual violence on campus in 2011 with a “Dear Colleague” letter, setting guidelines for investigation of sexual assault at federally funded universities. The guidelines lowered the standard of proof in sexual assault cases and allowed accusers to appeal not-guilty verdicts. They also specifically defined the role of university Title IX coordinators, demanding that they receive the resources and authority to address sexual assault reports and deal with discriminatory behavior. DeVos’s changes would overturn Obama’s revisions, giving universities a more lenient policy on addressing sexual violence reports. This is a step in the wrong direction for sexual assault prevention on college campuses. Revamping Title IX to roll back protections for victims and to give the accused more rights is irresponsible and dangerous, especially with the prevalence of false reporting being only two to 10 percent. Joey Croslin, chief human resources officer and Title IX coordinator at OCU, said the human resources department has

Talk Back “Do you prefer 'OCU' or 'OKCU?' Why?”

done a lot of work in the past few years since the letter to ensure that the university is responding appropriately. The human resources department just approved a non-discrimination policy last spring, and Croslin said the department strives to promote a healthy environment on campus and follow policies reflective of the university. The issue is that many sexual assault victims feel like no one is listening. DeVos is proving them right. Title IX is important. It’s essential. Revamping it in DeVos’s image would further deter students from reporting sexual assaults while emboldening their assaulters. To help protect Title IX, donate to the It’s On Us initiative at gofundme.com/itsonus. The campaign allows educators and assault survivors to teach college campuses about sexual violence and what they can do to prevent it. If students want to make a report, request assistance or inquire about Title IX at OCU, they are encouraged to email Croslin at jcroslin@okcu.edu.

“I like 'OCU' better because it's just easier to say.”

“'OCU.' It's what I'm used to. It's what I've been telling people for many years now. It just makes sense.”

Alexandre Taiar marketing senior

John Vick religion sophomore

“I feel like 'OKCU' is chic.”

“I like 'OCU' because it flows better.”

Jessica Martens music theater/vocal performance junior

Meghan Settle design and production freshman

“Where does the 'K' come from? I like 'OCU' much better.”

“I like 'OCU' better. It's easier to say.”

Morgan Wanamaker dance sophomore

Joe Jolly exercise science freshman

“I understand why they changed it to distinguish us, but I'll continue to say 'OCU.' I'm not against the change.”

“I like 'OCU' because that's what it was called when I first came here.”

Matthew Moelling biology sophomore

Laura Leigh Turner music theater junior

Columnist laments worldwide adversity, inability to help Being on a college campus can be overwhelming. I’m confronted daily by fees, homework, rehearsals, callbacks, tests, quizzes, and finding time for friends. It almost makes me forget that the world continues turning and life doesn’t stop just because I’m at college. Leaving home is hard for some and easy for others. For me, it’s difficult to be away from home. I miss my family, and my friends at home seem to go on fine without me. It may sound selfish, but it just boils down to my want to be with friends and family. Then I’m confronted by the fact that there is a world beyond home. We have a president with a trigger finger for tweets, a regime across the world threatening to

annihilate us, racist marches that end up in harmless protesters being killed, and natural disasters that threaten the lives of the innocent. I was out with friends a couple weeks ago at Empire Slice House, 1734 N.W. 16th St. We were celebrating a close friend’s 21st birthday. I had an absolute blast, and, when I got home, I got into my warm bed, reflected on my amazing night and fell asleep. I was safe and sound–only worrying about some homework that had to be taken care of. I slept without problem and woke up a full nine hours later. I opened my New York Times app on my phone, and I saw the hurricane’s destruction in Texas.

Harrison Langford is an acting junior from Las Vegas, Nevada, who loves golden retrievers and the New York Giants.

While I was laughing, enjoying friends’ company and eating incredible pizza, people were fearing for their lives. They were without power and getting 20 inches of rain in just 24 hours. Some people were watching as their homes literally washed away. Some people got no sleep that night and woke up in the morning thinking, “what am I going to do now?”

That was Harvey, and now Floridians are going through the same thing with Hurricane Irma, too. It’s difficult, as a college student, to face these facts. It’s difficult to look at death and destruction. It just leaves us feeling helpless. What can I do? Sure, Texas isn’t that far of a drive, but I have responsibilities here. I can’t just pack up and leave to go help the

relief efforts. I have my education and obligations to fulfill. I can’t donate either because I’m broke. It’s difficult to self-maintain, but, sometimes, we have to. Other than the donation efforts, we cannot directly help at this point in our lives. But, there is one thing we can do to help: stay informed. Keep up on the facts. Learn and be ready for the next disaster. Tell family and friends how important they are. It is crucial that we do these things, so our thoughts and hopes can be focused on those in Texas and Florida struggling right now. Those states are not the only places on earth facing disaster. In an age of advanced media, we

are able to see all of the other disasters around the world. It’s important to stay focused. We must stay informed and aware. That’s all we can do to help. Turn on your TV, subscribe to live updates and learn about what is happening around the world. The best way to combat disaster is to learn from it. I’m doing what I can to stay informed and continue telling loved ones how important they are to me. The next step is to learn if there are any ways for students like myself to help realistically. My thoughts go out to all those affected in the hurricanes and to those around the world who are struggling.

New comedy-drama entertains but lacks overall message Aubrey Plaza’s latest project, Ingrid Goes West, a comedy-drama directed by Matt Spicer, hit theaters Aug. 11 to relatively mixed reviews. The film premiered at Sundance Film Festival in January where Neon acquired the distribution rights to the film. The story begins when “Ingrid Thorburn” (Plaza) attacks a bride at her wedding in what is clearly a mental

breakdown. In a quick expository montage, we see Ingrid go to a mental institution, recover, live at home alone, spend ample time on social media, and then learn that she has inherited a large sum of money from her recently deceased mother. Then Ingrid goes west! In a desperate need to make a human connection, Ingrid packs up her things, cashes her check and heads to Los

Mary McLain is a film production junior from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who loves sandwiches and social media.

Angeles searching for a new life and a new friend, “Taylor Sloane” (Elizabeth Olsen). Ingrid deeply envies Taylor’s

glamorous lifestyle as she displays it on Instagram. The rest of the movie follows the girls’ complicated friendship.

Overall, the cast delivers as best they can for the roles they were given. Plaza proves herself as a champion crier, and Olsen demonstrates a cold side she rarely taps into on screen. O’Shea Jackson Jr., who plays an aspiring screenwriter named “Dan,” gives the most charming performance of the ensemble. Despite the funny performances and laughable moments in the first act, the movie, as a

whole, fails to hold onto any central message or inkling of positivity. Stories do not exist to deliver good feelings or positive messages to the world, but the first half of the movie sets up a classic underdog story only to let the audience down with a finale too vague and cynical to decipher. Ingrid Goes West might make you laugh, but your life will not be changed.

Campus Calendar Calendar items must be received in the Newsroom or stupub@okcu.edu by noon Friday for inclusion in the following Wednesday issue.

TODAY Student conduct training board meeting from 1-3 p.m. in Room 151 in Walker Center for Arts and Sciences THURSDAY Chapel service from 1-2 p.m. in Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel Stars 4 Peace from 5-7 p.m. outside Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center Symphony Orchestra concert

from 8-9 p.m. in Petree Recital Hall in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center Kappa Sigma Military Heroes Week's Ice Cream Sandwich Sale from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. outside the caf in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center FRIDAY Student Philanthropy Committee open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Conference Room 105 in Clara E. Jones Administration Building

Project 21 concert at 8 p.m. in the medium rehearsal hall in Wanda L. Bass Music Center

workshop from 1-6 p.m. in Meinders School of Business

OCUStripped presents Seussical at 8 p.m. in Petree Recital Hall in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center

Alpha Phi's Red Dress Gala from 7-10 p.m. at Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club, 7000 N.W. Grand Blvd.

Kappa Sigma Military Heroes Week's Margaritaville event from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Kappa Sigma House

OCUStripped presents Seussical at 8 p.m. in Petree Recital Hall in Kirkpatrick Fine Arts Center

SATURDAY First-generation college prep

SUNDAY Women's soccer vs. Houston-

September 13, 2017, Volume 110, Number 56

Staff Writers: McAlyn Forbes, Harrison Langford, Emily Wollenberg, Sophia Babb, Grace Babb Columnist: Caroline Hawthorne Photographer: Karlye Price Film Critic: Mary McLain Videographer: Emily Haan

Men's soccer vs. Houston-Victoria at 3 p.m. at Stars Field Ok lahoma Vir tuosi season opening concer t at 2 p.m. at Magnolia Building Event Center, 722 N. Broadway Ave. MONDAY These Hands Don't Haze workshop at 11:30 a.m. in Shdeed Lounge in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center

Evensong at 8 p.m. in Watson Lounge in Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel TUESDAY Study abroad fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Shdeed Lounge in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center LinkedIn workshop at noon in Dulaney-Browne Library Men's soccer vs. Bethany at 6 p.m. at Stars Field

The Campus has served the Oklahoma City University community since 1907. It is published Wednesday during the academic year, with the exception of holidays and exam periods.

THE CAMPUS Editor-in-chief: Miguel Rios Associate Editor: Sage Tokach Copy Editor: Chandler White News Editor: Zoe Travers Photo Editor: Elina Moon Community Manager: Lauren Berlingeri Web Editor: Nicole Waltman

Victoria at 1 p.m. at Stars Field

The Student Publications staff welcomes unsolicited material and let-

Ad/Marketing Director: Madison Clark Circulation Director: Brianna Demuth Faculty Adviser: Kenna Griffin

ters to the editor. All letters must be signed and include the writer’s phone number, address, major, and classification. The staff reserves the right to edit all letters. The staff also reserves the right to refuse letters without explanation. Letters can be sent online at mediaocu.com, emailed to stupub@ okcu.edu or dropped off at the Newsroom in Walker Center for Arts and Sciences. Submitted items may appear on MediaOCU and in the print edition.

September 13, 2017

news

Making big changes Onnika Hanson, acting junior, embraces her “theater little” Lisi Levy, acting freshman, during Alpha Psi Omega’s big/little retreat on Sept. 9. Alpha Psi Omega is the School of Theater’s fraternity. Top: Caroline Mueller, acting freshman, wears a blindfold and waits to meet her new “theater big.” Bottom: Jackson Langford, acting freshman; Blayne Childers, acting sophomore; Andrew Tompkins, acting freshman; Blake Sauceda, acting sophomore; and Tyler Malinauskas, acting junior, take a group photo and celebrate the newest additions to their “theater family.” Elina Moon Student Publications

Career Services hosts events to prepare students for job search Nicole Waltman

WEB EDITOR

Career Services is offering new resources and events to help students prepare for life after receiving their degree. Students get more than just assistance with resume building, said Amelia Hurt, director of Career Services. “Although we love to work with students on these documents, our office can provide interview advice and mock interviews inperson or Skype advice on salary negotiation, preparing graduate school applications and personal statements, writing cover letters for summer programs, creating a LinkedIn account, the job search, and more,” Hurt said. A new opportunity this fall is a student business card program

that allows students to order 100 business cards for $5. Additionally, Career Services partnered with alumni relations to create the Alumni Mentor Network, a program that connects students to alumni within their area of interest. Officials also partnered with Greek Life for the Fall Fashion Show, an event where students learn to dress for various business-attire events while on a budget. The show will be at 7 p.m. Oct. 1 in the Shdeed Lounge in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center. Pre-registered students have a chance to win a JCPenney gift card. To pre-register, call Career Services at 405-208-5171. Recurring events like the Etiquette Dinner and the Career and Internship Fair still will be hosted. “I would so be interested in attending these events,” said Jessica Martens, music theater/vocal performance junior. “I think the social

skills and relationships gained from Career Service events are invaluable for gaining interview skills and job connections after college.” Aside from attending group events, students also can make personal appointments for assistance from Career Services. “We love to work with students one-on-one, as we feel that a personalized plan is crucial,” Hurt said. “Each student is unique, and we want to make sure they are able to map out a plan that supports their individual goals.” For questions, information, appointments, or registration for any of the services and events, email careerservices@okcu.edu.

Nine Senate seats still vacant after freshman senator applications close Sophia Babb

STAFF WRITER

Applications for two freshmen at large Senate seats closed yesterday, but other seats are still open. Freshmen at large senators represent and vote on behalf of their class within Student Senate. Their responsibilities include attending meetings, voting on legislation and evaluating bills and resolutions in committees.

All candidates are required to attend a seminar at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Student Life Conference Room in Tom and Brenda McDaniel University Center. Joanna Whipple, political science/philosophy junior, handles all Student Court matters and Student Government Association elections. Whipple said the new senators will be expected to help set goals for SGA and influence the direction of student government during their term as

a freshman senator. “There are two seats for freshmen at large senators, so the two candidates who receive the most votes by the student body are elected to the position,” she said. Freshmen at large senators are elected by the last week of September each year and are sworn in at the Senate meeting following their election. Austin Gipson-Black, religion/philosophy and political science junior, is the vice president of SGA and chairman of

the Student Senate. Gipson-Black said that freshmen at large senators are the same as other senators. The only difference is who they represent. “The freshmen at large senators have the same voting rights as everyone else, but they only represent the freshman class,” Gipson-Black said. Lesley Black, associate dean of students and SGA adviser, said students can gain experience working collaboratively with other individuals, building

consensus, thinking critically, and advocating for others within SGA. “Involved students have the opportunity to appropriate money to student organizations, provide funding for student organizations, and they can put forth resolutions to request that the university pay attention to particular issues, and request the university provide certain services and so on,” Black said. There are nine Senate seats open. The open seats are for:

- dance and arts management, - graduate, - law, - two sophomore at large, and - two graduate at large. Students interested in applying for Senate seats may email Gipson-Black at gagipsonblack@my.okcu.edu for more information.

Political activism program recruits student volunteers Zoe Travers

NEWS EDITOR

Students can get involved in a new program that aims to teach high schoolers about politics. Generation Citizen works with college students to help high schoolers become more aware of local politics. The group is looking for volunteers. Dr. Karen Youmans, honors program director and English professor of, and Lesley Black, associate dean of students, are in communication with Generation Citizen representatives about starting an official OCU chapter. As of now, there is no chapter, but students are encouraged to get involved. Meeting a need Only 23 percent of eighthgraders are proficient in civics, according to a National Assessment of Educational Progress test. This is especially true in low-income schools like Oklahoma City Public Schools, which is where the Oklahoma division of Generation Citizen is focused. “We recognized a disconnect between really smart students and what they understand about our democracy,” said Amy Curran, Oklahoma site manager for Generation Citizen. September 13, 2017

College mentors are called “democracy coaches” and teach two courses that are hour-long at an assigned school in the metro area. The coaching process begins with a 10-hour training on governance at the Oklahoma Public Schools’ resource center, 309 N.W. 13th St. Two democracy coaches are paired to teach at an assigned classroom, and they speak with students about the political issues that affect them. They then help the students identify the root causes of the issue and develop policy goals, both legislative and executive. During their “Civics Day” on Dec. 8, a few students and their democracy coaches present their proposed legislation to city officials. Students are encouraged to attend city council meetings and municipal meetings, and they learn how to use social media to promote their causes. The program also is meant to inspire youth voices, reallocate resources, champion current legislation, and connect high schoolers to decision makers. Curran said Generation Citizen also can be beneficial to the democracy coaches’ experience. “It’s a really great way for college students to have a deep look at issues that are affecting students in the OKC metro area and connect with professionals, legislators and elected officials

Generation Citizen. As a recent college graduate, she said she realizes college can be busy, but she also said programs like Generation Citizen are worth the work. “Quite frankly, the kids at Oklahoma City schools need to feel important, and I don’t feel like that’s happening right now,” Fisher said.

Zoe Travers Student Publications

Amy Curran and Alyssa Fisher, Generation Citizen representatives, stand in front of their Civics Day banner in their office at the Oklahoma Public Schools resource center, 309 N.W. 13th St. in Oklahoma City.

in Oklahoma City,” she said. Making connections Curran is an OCU alumna and said she’s looking forward to starting a chapter at OCU after already beginning two Oklahoma chapters last semester at the University of Oklahoma in Norman and the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. There are no prerequisites for students interested in being democracy coaches. “We are looking for students

who are interested in social change and policy,” Curran said. “We’re looking for college students who want to understand how what they’re studying at the university level connects at a deeper level.” Curran said the program also can help high school students learn more about how they can get into college and introduce them to the college experience. College opportunities Alyssa Fisher will direct OCU students’ involvement in

Personal experiences Beatrize Martinez, secondyear law student, is a new democracy coach. She said she looks forward to teaching students how to engage themselves politically. “The students of Oklahoma County had walked out in protest of the education cuts, and I know this opportunity to teach them how to take the next steps and to have their voice heard will be so beneficial,” Martinez said. Martinez started her training last weekend and said she’s been impressed so far. “The orientation I was given appeared to have so many proven steps in engaging the youth on achievable issues and connecting them with State representatives,” she said. Martinez said the program requires about six to eight hours of work per week, with two of those hours being in high school government classrooms. “They’ll work with your schedule, and you can be paired up with another democracy

coach that has the same availability that you do,” she said. Martinez said she encourages all students to apply for the program. “We need all hands on deck, and the connections you’ll make throughout this journey will be beneficial to you whether you decide to be a school teacher, lawyer or want to even learn how to be a better citizen yourself,” she said. Kimberlea Harlow, psychology/child advocacy senior, works with the organization and is trying to recruit more students. She said the program does a good job of preparing its democracy coaches. “They will train and teach you everything you need to know to be able to teach the high school students how to effectively advocate for themselves through participation in the political process,” Harlow said. Alumna Amy Smith worked with Generation Citizen last year and recommends it. “I was inspired by the growth my students showed as well as the impact Generation Citizen has,” Smith said. Interested students may visit generationcitizen.org or email Curran at acurran@ generationcitizen.org.

news

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Put a ring on it The OCU Cheer team celebrates after being presented with their inaugural National Championship rings at a ring ceremony at halftime during the women’s soccer game Sept. 9 at Stars Field. The ceremony originally was planned for Aug. 25, but was rescheduled because of inclement weather. Left: Members of the 2017 cheer team try on their new championship rings at a ring ceremony. The rings were awarded for the team’s National Championship at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Competitive Cheer and Dance Competition in March 2017. The Stars earned a score of 87.08 at the championship and beat the second-place team by 4.15 points. It was the first year cheerleading and pom were included as a sport by the National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics, making the team the first ever national champions.

McAlyn Forbes Student Publications

Campus tech installs new online printing system Sage Tokach

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Campus technology officials implemented a new printing system, PaperCut, that allows students to print to any public printer on campus from their own device. PaperCut replaced the university system that required students to transfer their papers to a flash drive or school computer before printing. Before accepting print jobs, the old system required a StarCard swipe at the printer connected to the computer in use. The new system, implemented this semester, allows students to print from their own computers and mobile devices, as well as university computers. Instead of choosing from a list of printer options, students connect to the air print option “okcu_print.” They can send documents from anywhere on campus, as long as they are connected to the OCUsecure Wi-Fi. Their papers will print at any public printer on campus if they swipe their StarCard or enter their BlueLink login information on the printer screen. Students can use their printing and BlueLink password to log into their online PaperCut account, which gives them access to the details of their printing information. They can view past and pending print jobs, as well as their card balance and environmental impact. The website also allows students to add money to their card balance. Printing costs 10 cents for black and white and 20 cents for color copies. “I think the new printer is more convenient, but sometimes the student before me forgets to log out and I get confused,” said Lin Li, TESOL graduate. “I only have 20 minutes during break

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It’s very nice to not have to print to a specific printer, but it’s definitely not flawless yet.

Anthony Edwards Dulaney-Browne Library circulation technician

time, so I appreciate when I can log in and print right away.” Gerry Hunt, chief information officer at Campus Technology Services, said there’s been a lot of excitement from staff about the new system. “It’s much simpler than before, and it’s now easy for students to print from their own devices,” Hunt said. “It’s a brand new system, so we don’t know all the bugs yet. So far, some individual devices have had problems, but we’ve been able to solve them on a case-by-case basis.” Dulaney-Browne Library staff members said they are excited about the new program because they manage the main student printers on campus, but they have experienced intermittent difficulties. “It’s great when it works,” said Dr. Kristen Burkholder, access services librarian and associate professor of library science. “The areas in which we have the most frequent problems are printing

PDFs and printing within browsers. Sometimes, if you switch browsers, it works better.” Anthony Edwards, circulation technician, said he agrees that the system looks hopeful. “It’s very nice to not have to print to a specific printer, but it’s definitely not flawless yet,” Edwards said. “One way or another, though, we’ll get it printed for you.” If students have trouble immediately connecting to the printer server, they can visit okcu.edu/campus/resources/technology and choose the “Printing, Copying & Computer Resources” tab. From there, students can follow specific mobile printing instructions, view a full list of printer and copier locations and access the PaperCut login page. Campus tech officials have installed the basics of the system, but they hope to add more features as the semester progresses, Hunt said. One feature of PaperCut allows printer screens to show the environmental impact of the print job, down to the percentage of a tree it will kill. Hunt said administrators are encouraging professors to put assignments online, so this feature may help enforce that. Some students said they were pleased with the system once they figured it out. “I was really confused at first, but once they explained it to me, I thought it was the best thing that happened to this school,” said Franziska Harms, acting senior. “On a campus like this, where we’re all so busy and our time is so valuable, this is important.”

Officials continue testing acronym change to distinguish university Emily Wollenberg

STAFF WRITER

University officials are conducting a two-year experiment to change OCU’s acronym to “OKCU.” The university is marketing OCU as “OKCU” to incoming freshmen and transfer students. Based on how often the term is used in the next few years, officials will determine whether the acronym change should be permanent. Kevin Windholz, vice president for enrollment management, previously said “OKCU” would distinguish the university from other universities in the surrounding area and would define the university as “Oklahoma City’s university.” Leslie Berger, senior director of communications and marketing, said the testing phase has been smooth so far and students and faculty are using “OKCU” and “OCU” as they wish. Windholz and Berger are September 13, 2017

Whether we’re wearing ‘OCU’ or ‘OKCU,’ we will always embody the tradition of the Oklahoma City Stars. Abbey Renner biomedical science junior

overseeing the change, which still is not official. Athletic Director Jim Abbott said no one has directed him or the athletic department to refer to OCU as “OKCU,” but, if the switch happens, it could affect athletics financially. “It might require us to spend money on new uniforms or signage in our facilities,” he said. There was some concern about OCU’s reputation in athletics being impacted by the change, but Abbott said OCU is usually referred to as “Oklahoma City.” “I think who we truly are is Oklahoma City University. Athletically, we enjoy a very positive

reputation nationally, so I don’t think it matters what our acronym is,” he said. Abbey Renner, biomedical science junior, is on the basketball team. She said there are positives and negatives to the change. “As athletes, we hold the OCU athletic tradition very near and dear to our hearts. There has been a reputation built with the name ‘OCU’ over the years, and it makes it hard to accept the change to ‘OKCU,’” Renner said. However, Renner also said “OKCU” could help distinguish OCU from other similar metro area schools, such as Oklahoma Christian University (OC) in

Edmond, Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) in Oklahoma City or University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) in Edmond. “Adding a ‘K’ to our name will bring attention and set us apart as the amazing program that we are,” Renner said. The switch in acronyms could unintentionally distance alumni from the university, Abbott said. “There will probably be some alums who won’t be very happy about it,” he said. “We used to be the Chiefs and now we’re the Stars. I can tell you that some students who were here when we were the Chiefs aren’t happy about the fact that we’re no longer the Chiefs.” University officials will continue the acronym test in hopes that “OKCU” will catch on with incoming students. “Whether we’re wearing ‘OCU’ or ‘OKCU,’ we will always embody the tradition of the Oklahoma City Stars,” Renner said.

Elina Moon Student Publications

Game on Senior Middle Blocker Holly Randall tips the ball over the blockers at the women’s volleyball game Sept. 7 in Abe Lemons Arena in Henry J. Freede Wellness and Activity Center. The Stars won the game, 25-20, 25-18 and 25-22 against St. Gregory’s. The next women’s volleyball home game is at 3 p.m. Sept. 23 against Central Christian.