April 19, 2021 by The Wichitan and Wai Kun

April 19, 2021 | thewichitan.com |Real Students. Real Stories. | Vol. 85 No. 15

NEWS: Pg 5

Vaccine distribution has begun on campus.

TAKE BACK THE NIGHT: Pg 6-7 SPORTS: Pg 10-11

To highlight sexual assault awareness month, the office of Title IX, Residence Life and Housing along with several other campus organizations hosted a Take Back The Night event.

Mustangs reflect on the 2020-2021 season.

STAFF FAREWELL: Pg 2

GRADUANDS: Pg 16

FEATURE: Pg 13

Goodbye message from our editor in chief.

Graduating Mustangs share their MSU experiences. Edwin Bah: The man behind “Go Lift.”

@WichitanOnline

@wichitanonline

@TheWichitan

GOODBYE FROM THE WICHITAN'S EDITOR IN CHIEF

BRIDGET REILLY

In August of 2015, a brighteyed and bushy-tailed Australian walked onto the campus of Midwestern State University. I came to MSU on a scholarship to run track. It wasn’t, by any means, my first-choice university, but the Spirit of the Universe put Bridget Reilly me on the path to this little town I have made my home. Unfortunately, I fell out of love with track and field — a breakup that haunts me to this day. However, with the end of one relationship,

came another that I couldn’t have dreamed of. In the fall of 2016, I was chatting with a photographer from The Wichitan sharing photos we have taken. He convinced me to meet the editor in chief, Kara McIntyre. I walked into that little storage closet they called an office and the space had an aura like nothing I had ever felt. I joined the organization that day and haven’t looked back. My journey at The Wichitan goes like this: photographer, photojournalist, chief photographer, photography editor, editor in chief. Never, in a million years, did I think I had any potential to be a writer, let alone lead the organization. Firstly, I am a sociology major and criminal justice minor. I didn’t think other majors could be a part of the newspaper. More than half of our team members are not mass communication majors; we have English, education, political science and kinesiology to name a few. Secondly, I was an athlete. Since when are athletes allowed to do anything but work out and go to class? Whatever you do, no matter who you are, you have a place at The Wichitan. While professionally I grew to insurmountable heights, personally I grew like the Big Friendly Giant in his pre-adolescent stage. I’ve had my highest highs and my lowest lows while being a member of The Wichitan and not once

did the team let me slip away. We are not just an organization or friends who meet on Mondays at 5 p.m. to go over story ideas; we are otters who hold hands when they sleep to prevent themselves from drifting away from the group. I’ve had the pleasure to see our little ol’ newspaper grow and thrive. From the storage closet to our very own office, upstairs in the Fain Fine Arts building (D201), we now have a view of the campus and state-of-the-art software to go with it. This wouldn’t have been possible without the tenacity and drive of the mass communication department. Not to name names, but if you’re ever in the building and run into the Dean of Fain Fine Arts Martin Camacho, Chair of the mass communication department, Jim Sernoe, professor of mass communication, Jonathon Quam, or Studio Director Lisa Thames, you have come across MSU royalty and should bow at their feet. These human beings are the backbone of our organization, and we could not be who we are or run without them. All of this is a testament to just how much time, effort and love the students and advisors at The Wichitan put in to making you one of their own and helping you build and learn along the way. I have made connections here, I have met my (hold on, my eyes are leaking) best friends here and I have become the woman I am today, here. I am ready to spread my wings.

They helped mend and grow, and fly to my next destination. I don’t know where I’ll end up, but I do know that every little thing I have learned (besides the oxford comma rule) will guide me to the right place. It has been an honor serving as the Midwestern State University newspaper editor in chief, and I wish the new team all the breaking news stories and awards they can get. With love,

Bridget Reilly

PHOTO BY NIKO MCWILLIAMS | THE WICHITAN

PHOTO BY AMOS PERKINS | THE WICHITAN

Bridget Reilly, sociology senior and editor in chief of The Wichitan, posing on the Senior Mustangs Statue, April 9.

Bridget Reilly, editor in chief of The Wichitan, co-hosting on Mustangs On Air Live, April 14.

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL JONES | THE WICHITAN

Bridget Reilly, editor in chief of The Wichitan, and her dog, Jack, Jan 30.

Vol. 85 | No. 15 Midwestern State University Fain Fine Arts Bldg., Room D201 3410 Taft Blvd. | Wichita Falls, Texas 76308 (940) 397-4704 wichitan@msutexas.edu | thewichitan.com @wichitanonline

EDITOR IN CHIEF: Bridget Reilly MANAGING EDITOR: Amos Perkins NEWS EDITOR: Stephanie Robledo DESIGN EDITOR: Omar Combie BUSINESS MANAGER: Alexis Martin ISSUE STAFF: Emily Beaman, Ryan Clayton, Thalia Doe, Bailey Graham, Shunde Hooks, Abigail Jones, Elizabeth Mahan, Niko McWilliams, Joseph Nelson, Khirstia Sheffield, Dallas Wabbington ADVISOR: Jonathon Quam

Copyright ©2021. First copy free. Additional copies $1.00 each. The Wichitan is a member of the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association and the Associated Collegiate Press. The Wichitan reserves the right to edit any material submitted for publication. Opinions expressed in The Wichitan do not necessarily reflect those of the students, staff, faculty, administration or Board of Regents of Midwestern State University. The Wichitan welcomes letters of opinion from students, faculty and staff submitted by the Friday before intended publication. Letters should be brief (250 words or fewer) and without abusive language or personal attacks. Letters must be typed and signed by the writer and include a email address, telephone number and address.

Graduating staff members share their experiences working at The Wichitan

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEO GONZALEZ

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELIZABETH MAHAN | THE WICHITAN

Khirstia Sheffield, mass communication senior, posing at a photoshoot, March 20.

Elizabeth Mahan, English senior, poses with a graduation hat, April 11.

KHIRSTIA SHEFFIELD FEATURE EDITOR o The Wichitan, thank you. Thank you for pushing me into becoming a better writer and thank you for broadening my horizons and forcing me to step outside of my tiny little comfort zone. Facing The Wichitan my sophomore year was scary. I was young, immature and honestly afraid of what was yet to come. I remember telling my mom, “I don’t know if I’m built for this. I’m not ready. I’m so scared,” but little did I know I would fall in love with writing by telling the passionate stories of others through my own eyes and experiences. I’m glad I didn’t let my own fears stop me, because The Wichitan has become a part

ELIZABETH MAHAN REPORTER uring my freshman year in January 2019, I stumbled into publishing with The Wichitan because I wanted to get a good grade on my very first news story for Bradley Wilson’s class. After reading my whole story in less than a minute, Wilson sent my story to the newsroom to be edited and published. When I became more actively involved in 2020 and 2021, it was because I fell in love with not only journalism but also all the driven people at The Wichitan who work hard every week to bring MSU students quality news. I admire The Wichitan staff members not only because they

of my family, and these people that come in and out of those doors are amazing. They light up any room they walk in. They are so passionate about what they do, and that passion and drive only pushes me to produce my best work. Because of this team, I found part of myself, I found what I want to do for the rest of my life and I found my confidence. I’m thankful to have this organization be a part of my college experience, and, as hard as it is to say goodbye, I am so proud of the work that we’ve done together. I’ve been able to interview people I probably would have been afraid to approach two years ago and I’ve been able to share people’s stories that needed to be heard.

There’s no greater joy than giving the voiceless a voice. Looking back on that young girl who tilted her head down when asked to join The Wichitan because she wasn’t confident in her writing skills. Looking at the woman I am today, I can say The Wichitan helped shape me. It wasn’t always easy juggling between my course work and making time to interview people, but it was so worth it. I am a better writer, I am a better listener and I know I can take over this industry and shine bright. For that, I will forever be grateful. Thank you for your support, thank you for your inspiration and thank you for helping me find that spark that I thought I never had.

give nothing less than their best for every story, every photo and every publication design; but also because they are genuinely kind people, and the hilarious newsroom banter is sometimes the highlight of my day. The staff is the only group of people I know who can have a lively debate over the color green in a headline or a punctuation rule. I’ve always thought I wanted to be a journalist because I wanted to bring the community together with my writing. Writing for The Wichitan this year has reminded me of another reason why spending numerous hours on a story is rewarding. When I interview people, and I see the passion in their eyes or hear the certainty or

love for what they do in their voice, I get to write that down. I am one of the lucky people who gets to document people’s pride and joy so that they can look back on their own words one day and know they were a part of something special. When I go on to pursue a journalism career, I know the field will come with many challenges, but I’m hoping there will always be those people, interviewees, and members of the staff, that make the hard work worth it. MSU has been my home for the past three years, and my college experience wouldn’t have been the same without The Wichitan. Goodbye MSU newsroom and thank you for the memories.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION NAMES AUSTIN STRODE AS PRESIDENT

PHOTO COURTESY OF AUSTIN STRODE

Austin Strode, economics junior and SGA president elect, standing by the “Spirit of the Mustangs” pond.

Austin Strode, economics junior and SGA president elect, poses for a photo.

STEPHANIE ROBLEDO NEWS EDITOR he search for the new Student Government Association has ended. During Stangfest, Austin Strode, economics junior, was named the new SGA president. “I’m most excited about working with the student body to help improve MSU,” Strode said. Strode has followed his excitement and has already begun working with students by speaking to them. With student input Strode has come up with ideas to better the campus for students. “I have a list of programs and changes that I’ve gotten from students from speaking with students,” Strode said. “Some goals are as small as just hosting a one-day event. Oth-

ers are as big that hopefully will move past my term as president.” Strode is ready to make his ideas into a reality. Creating a community is Strode’s greatest goal. He hopes to bring together students and faculty while promoting inclusivity. “My main goals for next year are to help improve communication with the students and the faculty on campus and promote inclusion and diversity on campus,” Strode said. Since being named SGA president Strode has been learning the ropes. He is learning the ins and outs of SGA and all the responsibilities that come with being president. “Right now, we are still transitioning into our positions and learning how SGA runs from an executive position,” Strode said. Getting the hang of things has come to be a

bit of a challenge for Strode but he is willing to take it head-on. He says it helps to have a great executive board and other resources available to help him. “The biggest challenge I see is learning how everything works. I hope to get working ASAP, and luckily I have a great executive bored and plenty of resources on campus to help me overcome this,” Strode said. Besides the challenges that come with being SGA president, Strode’s is ready to make changes for the better on campus. He says that just like himself SGA is excited to start working. “SGA is very excited to begin working on some important issues on campus,” Strode said.

COMIC BY DALLAS WABBINGTON

VACCINES ARRIVE ON CAMPUS

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL JONES | THE WICHITAN

PHOTO BY RYAN CLAYTON | THE WICHITAN

Keith Williamson, medical director of Vinson Health Center, holds up the Johnson Keith Williamson pictured with soldiers during the COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the and Johnson vaccine, April 7. Sikes Lake Center, April 8. ABIGAIL JONES REPORTER ontinuing throughout April, Vinson Health Center, Texas Department of Emergency Management and Texas Military Department have partnered together to vaccinate the community. Keith Williamson, Vinson Health Center medical director, has been applying for vaccines every week this semester, and, until April 6, hadn’t received any response. That changed when Williamson and MSU Texas Police Chief Patrick Coggins received emails from the Texas Division of Emergency Management about the National Guard holding vaccine clinics on campus. “We hadn’t had any luck in getting the vaccine ourselves, so we began looking at [the National Guard] as an option to bring a vaccination team to campus. Essentially all we have to do is provide facilities and logistics on the ground here and then they provide everything else,” Coggins said. This clinic will take place every Tuesday and Thursday in the Sikes Lake Center behind the Bruce and Graciela Redwine Student Wellness Center from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the rest of April. It is a walk-in clinic that requires no prior registration. “They have a very efficient setup in there,” Coggins said. “I was really surprised at, once they got working, how quickly you go from waiting in the line to being in the chair, [getting] the shot and [heading] out the door.” The clinic administered the Johnson and Johnson vaccine until the vaccine was recalled by the Food and Drug Administration on April 13. It now administers the Moderna vaccine, and Williamson advises the students who will

be gone during the period for their second shot to seek out vaccine distributors in their hometown. “This has been so fast. It’s gone from zero to just a deluge of vaccine,” Williamson said. Vinson Health’s vaccine allotment was used for a drive-through clinic held on April 9 and 10. It will continue to be used in the Sikes Lake Center clinic and appointments at Vinson Health. All three of these contributed to about 300 Johnson and Johnson doses being given out in the first week of vaccines on campus. To keep the Sikes Lake Center clinic efficient, Coggins and his team are on-site to guarantee the safety of those receiving and administering the vaccine. “On-site security requested is as one of the

functions that the hosting agency provides,” Coggins said. “That’s something that in my previous research about hosting shot clinics and holding shot clinics within your jurisdiction, that’s one of the best practices is to have security on site. So, we have the law enforcement present.” Coggins also said that since the clinics are open to the public, the MSU police are preparing for resistance against vaccination or other unexpected disturbances. “There’s always the possibility of folks who don’t necessarily believe that this effort to immunize is a good idea and there have been instances of disorderly people and those causing issues. So, in everybody’s best interest we have a law enforcement presence on site when we do

PHOTO BY ABIGAIL JONES | THE WICHITAN

The Johnson and Johnson vaccine in the fridge of Vinson Health Center, April 8.

these clinics,” Coggins said. Although the Johnson and Johnson vaccine was recalled, Williamson said students who received it are at an extremely low risk as severe reactions to the vaccine, such as blood clotting, came from 0.008 per 1,000 people. If, however, students are concerned, they should stay attuned to the symptoms of blood clotting and talk to their primary care provider to see if they might be at risk. “Of the people who got the [Johnson and Johnson] vaccine, whether they got COVID or not subsequently, they didn’t transmit it to anybody else,” Williamson said. “Even if they do get the illness after the vaccine, they’re less infectious. So that’s a great thing because that’s what’ll put an end to the pandemic transmission.” This decreased transmission would contribute to herd immunity, the campus’ goal according to Coggins. Williamson said that he is hoping students will become less reluctant to the vaccine so that this goal can be reached. “I would like to see every student on campus vaccinated. My reasonable goal, I thought, is 90%, but I think at this stage we’re lucky to get 70%,” Williamson said. “It’s getting down to the people who are more hesitant and afraid of the vaccine and don’t know what to make of it.” Coggins encouraged students to reach out to medical professionals and ask questions if they are unsure about getting vaccinated. “If you have any reluctance about getting it, talk to your healthcare provider. Go along with their medical opinion or advice. And certainly, I would encourage you, if you make that decision to come get the shot, come get it here at MSU.”

T A K E B A C K E D U C ATI N G TH E C A M P U that students who are not comfortable with reporting sexual assault or seeking counseling on campus should feel encouraged to reach out to First Step for its free and confidential services provided for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. “The more they do events like this, it makes me so proud. The more times that we get out and talk about it, and write articles, the more opportunity we have to say ‘You didn’t do anything wrong. It’s not your fault, and there are people here you can talk to,’” Turnbow said. “When we think about how much better we are today than we were 100 years ago, or 50 years ago, I just say it’s because we do things like this. We keep evolving. We keep talking about it and pushing things to get better.”

REPORTING SEXUAL ASSAULT

According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, Only 230 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to police. Survivors often suffer in silence because they feel as though

what transpired was their fault or are not sure if the assault happened. “No matter what you were doing, you didn’t deserve that... It is something that will change who you are if you do not go get help. You need to talk with someone so that you know you’re not alone. Something was taken from you when you were sexually assaulted, and until you work through that, they’ll still have that hold,” Turnbow said. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner or SANE examinations completed in a hospital following an assault give victims the opportunity to report the incident to the police, but they are under no obligation to do so. Hetrick said students do not have to provide proof of a SANE exam to receive support from Title IX. Possible accommodations Title IX gives for sexual assault victims include a change in university housing rooms, exam or assignment extensions, temporary withdrawal and substitute course completion options. “Unlike other crimes, people tend to blame

PHOTO BY BAILEY GRAHAM | THE WICHITAN

Campus volunteers work the check-in table at Take Back the Night, April 9. ELIZABETH MAHAN REPORTER n the university setting, 26.4% of female and 6.8% of male undergraduate students are raped or sexually assaulted, according to Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network. To highlight sexual assault awareness month, the office of Title IX, Residence Life and Housing, Violence Intervention and Prevention Peer Educators and the Sociology Club banded together to create a Take Back The Night event, which allowed students to interact with local resources available for survivors of sexual assault. “When people think of sexual assault they just think of being raped. Sexual assault encompasses a lot more than that. We need to make sure that we’re talking about groping, harassing language, not getting consent or only getting consent for one thing and not getting consent for everything. We want to make it a topic that, even though it’s uncomfortable, that people are okay talking about, and then if it does happen are okay reporting,” Laura Hetrick, director and coordinator of Title IX, said.

MEANING BEHIND TAKE BACK THE NIGHT

Take Back The Night is a worldwide movement with the mission of standing against sexual violence. Take Back The Night events and marches began in the 1960s, and the name originated from the anxiety women felt and often still feel when walking down the street alone at night. “Take Back The Night to me personally is taking back that power that was taken from you. Usually, with sexually assaulted individuals, they feel like you’ve taken so much from them that was out of their control. Taking back the night is regaining that power, understanding that you’re not alone. There’s a whole community behind you backing you,” Courtney Didier, MOSAIC Cross Culture Center peer educator and management senior, said. People between the ages of 13 and 33 are most at risk for sexual assault. As many college students are in that age range, Michelle Turnbow, executive director of First Step, emphasized

PHOTO BY BAILEY GRAHAM | THE WICHITAN

MSU’s jazz band provides music for the night during the Take Back the Night event in the Legacy Courtyard, April 9.

T H E N I G H T : U S O N S E X UA L A S SA ULT themselves or second guess what happened or to try to figure out what they could’ve done differently when in reality, it’s not their fault. It doesn’t really matter if they had gone left instead of right. They’re not to blame. They didn’t do anything wrong, and I think there is just so much shame associated with it that people tend to not talk about it or be hesitant to report,” Hetrick said.

DRINKING CULTURE AND SEXUAL ASSAULT

Title IX’s policy states that a student reporting an instance of sexual misconduct will not be penalized for illegal consumption of alcohol or drugs. The office only investigates the sexual assault case at hand. “I don’t think it’s reasonable to ask students to never drink. I think we need to look at it more like how do you drink safely. If you go to a party, you leave with the people you came with. You don’t leave someone there to fend for them-

selves. What we hear a lot of times from people, not so much directly here, but in more high profile cases is, ‘Oh yeah, I don’t even know how they walked out.’ That’s not to the point where you can give any kind of consent. No one should be doing anything to you at that point except making sure you’re safe,” Hetrick said. Although he says there is no sure way to prevent sexual assault, David Wilk, campus police officer, also recommended prioritizing safety on a night out. “Know your surroundings. Know who you’re with. Don’t take anything for granted, so you don’t become a victim,” Wilk said. “You may think ‘This is a really great guy,’ or ‘This is a really great girl,’ but really, how well do you know them? How much do you trust somebody?” The National Sexual Violence Resource Center found that 11% of women have experienced forced penetration while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and 5.5% of men were forced to penetrate someone while under the influence.

PHOTO BY BAILEY GRAHAM | THE WICHITAN

Food trucks provide students with dining options during Take Back the Night, April 9. “Have someone with you who isn’t [drunk], a D[esignated] D[river] or a friend that isn’t drinking, to be aware of you, to make sure to look out for you,” Monique Cervantes, Violence Intervention and Prevention peer educator and psychology junior said.

UNDERSTANDING CONSENT

PHOTO BY BAILEY GRAHAM | THE WICHITAN

Director and Coordinator of Title IX, Laura Hetrick, addresses the attendees of Take Back the Night with more info about the event, April 9.

Cervantes said to her, the words “Take Back The Night” are a form of justice. Cervantes, along with other students, spoke on the importance of understanding what consent means. “Just because we don’t give verbal consent, that doesn’t give somebody the right to make that decision for us. Consent means asking and getting it and not just assuming that it’s yours,” April Kaufman, president of the sociology club and sociology senior, said. Consent can be defined as a continual conversation between partners about their boundaries. Just because a partner has consent for one sexual act, does not mean consent for another. Along with being underage and under the influence of drugs or alcohol, consent can-

not be given in the environment of intimidation or a threat, nor can it be given if there is an unbalanced power dynamic. “It’s important to understand that you have a right to say no, even in the act of doing something, if you feel like you don’t want to go through with it, that’s your right. Them being aware of that lets them know that they have power to make decisions,” Didier said Turnbow said it is important to educate the youth, and society in general, on the meaning of consent so that people know what unhealthy behavior consists of. “I raised a daughter, and I raised a son. There’s a difference in the ‘boys will be boys’ concept. We have to educate our youth. Some people don’t even realize that they were sexually assaulted. I sit down and talk to so many people as adults who said, ‘Wow that was sexual assault,’ because we weren’t talking about it 20 years ago, people don’t know consent,” Turnbow said.

PEACE CORPS 8

ALEXIS RUCKER BUSINESS MANAGER he Peace Corps defines itself as “...a service opportunity for motivated changemakers to immerse themselves in a community abroad, working side by side with local leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our generation.” After 60 years, the Peace Corps has built a legacy founded on grass-roots volunteering whose outreach stretches across the globe. Don Holly, the regional recruiter for the Peace Corps, had little knowledge of the experience and joy that working with the organization would bring him. While working on a pig farm during his undergraduate years, Holly’s interest in the government program peaked when he met a man who explained that his experience as a member of the Peace Corps shaped him into the man he is today. Holly took to the organization’s website and did his research.

“They’ll help you pay for graduate school, any student loans if you have them, and it’s a government program that is well recognized around the world,” Holly said. Armed with his research, a bachelor’s degree in agriculture and biology and his passion for helping people, Holly boarded a plane for Jamaica as a member of the Peace Corps. As the Sustainable Agricultural Facilitator in Jamaica, he was able to help local farmers produce sustainable crops that led to financial growth. “We were there to help people plant and plow their fields. Eventually, I was able to get them together in selling collaboratively for a premium price for their crops,” Holly said. As he worked side by side with members of the community, Holly saw a need for a children’s summer camp. He was able to set up the summer camp programs Camp Respect and Camp GLOW because

of his affiliation with the Peace Corps. Organizing two fully-funded summer camps allowed Holly to develop his own skills as a coordinator, and it will show future employers that he is responsible and experienced. The opportunities for those interested in joining the Peace Corps are endless. Whether you’re someone looking for a way to help others after graduation or someone with a background in agriculture like Don Holly, you can help people around the world. Holly explained that being in the Peace Corps doesn’t mean they just throw money at a problem and hope it goes away. Volunteers take the time to understand the culture and the people they’re working with so they can better understand how to help them solve the problem. For more information on how you can join the Peace Corps, visit peacecorps.gov and speak with a recruiter.

Connect with a Recruiter to Learn More

P E AC E CO R P S .G OV/ WO R K

PHOTO COURTESY OF NIRAV SHAH | PEACE CORPS

Peace Corps Volunteer teaching youth agricultural practices.

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(First Row, Left to Right) Kinesiology junior K’Vonte Jackson, sprints past defenders for a huge gain as the Stangs defeat TAMU-Kingsville, March 6 - Photo by Bailey Graham | C Lewis, practices her jumping form ahead of the OBU Invitational, March 25 - Photo by Bailey Graham | Undecided sophomore Erwin Regules, takes a shot on goal in the Stang serve to Metro State University. March 5, 2020. - Photo by Bridget Reilly | Men’s golf pose together on the green, March 16. - Photo courtesy of Garrett Leek. (Second Row, L Forward and psychology junior, Jermane Carter, dunks the ball versus Lubbock Christian, Jan. 30. - Photo by Niko McWilliams. | Pre-law senior Lissette Lefforge spikes the b March 3 - Bailey Graham | Exercise physiology freshman Emilija Visic returns a serve from a Tyler Junior College player, Feb. 7, 2020. - Photo by Bridget Reilly. | Marketing ju

MU S T A N GS SH A RE TH EIR T HOUG THALIA DOE REPORTER s the spring semester comes to an end, some of MSU Texas’ star players reflect on the highs and lows of a unique Mustangs season.

Football

Caleb Brown (No. 63), offensive lineman and criminal justice senior, was announced the All-Lone Star Conference Male Performance Athlete of the Year. Brown said this past season the team started strong but didn’t finish as strong as they would’ve liked. “I think we just have to get better and focus on that during off-season and this summer, becoming more disciplined and learning how to execute the game... Our first scrimmage against South Eastern Oklahoma was very special to me, just to be able to walk on the field again after a year. We are grateful to be back out on the field after missing a year, but it definitely took some time adjusting back to the flow of a game… that’s no excuse though, because everyone else also had a year off, so

that’s when it goes back to learning how to execute the game better,” Brown said.

Men’s Soccer

Mere Escobar (No. 22), forward and undecided freshman, was announced LSC Freshman of the Year and featured on the All-Freshman team, making him even more ready for the conference tournament. “The biggest lesson I’ve learned this year was to work hard and wait for the moment. I struggled a lot in the beginning and even felt like I wasn’t doing enough for the team. However, I never stopped working and my coaches supported and pushed me to be great and do whatever I could to help the team. These awards are just the beginning of what I want to do for the program,” Escobar said.

Women’s Soccer

Reece Wildt (No. 3), defender and nursing freshman, was one of the few players that had the opportunity to start in several games this season. Wildt said

she did not expect to have such a big role her first year. “I honestly wasn’t expecting to play as much as I did or have a really big role on the team; all the other players understood that and helped me through it all. The season was a little tough for the team because we didn’t get all the outcomes we wanted in the games, but we stuck through it together, and I feel we had great leaders on the team that really pushed us and motivated us through the hard times,” Wildt said.

Men’s Tennis

Alberto Diaz, business management junior, said the season started with a few defeats, but the team has improved and is now physically stronger. “We could’ve played better and won more in the beginning of the season, but at the time, we weren’t as fit as we needed to be. Now that the most important part of the season is coming up, I feel that we are now more than capable of making it far in nationals,” Diaz said.

Women’s Tennis

Tiffany Holleback, sports administration senior, said, despite struggle with the pandemic, the team has been given the opportunity to grow together as a team on and off the court. She says her experience at other universities “I’m one of the new ones on the team because I am a transfer graduate student. There’s a couple of years between me and some of the other girls, but it’s a cool experience because I get to help them through the experience, I’ve gained playing at other programs,” Hollebeck said. Emilija Visic, exercise physiology sophomore, said this season has been special because her freshman year was cut short due to COVID-19. “Being able to complete through a whole season is kind of ‘new’ for me in a way, but it’s been a blast. Being able to play with my team and compete for each other every match has felt special. Individually, I love being on the court so having the whole season to learn and grow as an athlete has been important for me,” Visic said.

Men’s Basketb

Derrick Ogechi (N decided junior, said season playing for th ing able to meet and b es and players was a “We won more ga did last year, so I fee in the right direction college last year whe other coaches were picked Midwestern b the best school for m tion and basketball,”

Women’s Bask

Frances King (No nesiology sophomore one to remember. Ki showed what the tea complishing as a who “Against UT Tyler record for the most and had one of the in this program. My memory by far was

Criminal justice graduate student and guard Morgan Lenahan dribbles down the court playing against UTPB, Feb. 25 - Photo by Niko McWilliams | Finance sophomore Peyton gs win against Lubbock Christian, March 2 - Bailey Graham | Business management junior Alberto Diaz waits for mechanical engineering sophomore Quentin Scharfenberg to Left to Right) Undecided sophomore Ashley Turner, throws down the runner at first in a doubleheader against Southeastern Oklahoma, March 10 - Photo by Bailey Graham | ball in a 5 set game against Cameron, March 4 - Photo by Bailey Graham | Kinesiology Junior, Emma Baley, passes the ball upfield in a hard fought battle agaisnt Dallas Baptist, unior Juanita Gomez, lines up her putt in the Stangs 4th place finish at the Midwestern State Invitational, March 16. - Photo by Bailey Graham.

GHT S O N T HE 2020- 2021 SEASON

ball

No. 21), guard and unthat it was his first he Mustangs, and bebond with the coachgreat start. ames than the team el like we are moving n….I was at a junior en Coach Lesley and recruiting me, but I because I felt it was me, overall, in educaOgechi said.

ketball

o. 10), guard and kie, said this season is ing said this season am is capable of acole. r, we beat the school made 3’s in a game best records by far y favorite game and beating West Texas

A&M in double overtime. That is a game I will never forget.... We had some of our key players hurt or fouled in trouble, but we still grinded in every single possession. We were trusting one another and really playing together,” King said.

Volleyball

Raven Presley (No. 21), right-side hitter and business senior, and LSC Commissioner’s Honor Roll member for spring 2021, said this season was the most successful in her four years at Midwestern. “Despite the adversity thrown our ways, we were able to accomplish great things. I’m content with how I did this season, of course, there were times where I feel I could’ve done better, but ultimately, my main goal this season was to be the best leader I could’ve been both on and off the court. Coming back this year off of an injury, I wasn’t sure what to expect or even if I would play the same, I made it a priority to focus on the things I could control like my attitude and leadership,” Presley said.

Softball

Bailey Brenek (No. 16), utility player and education sophomore, said that despite the season not being what she had expected, that she is still very thankful for the opportunity to have a season, unlike last year due to COVID-19. Despite the season being a challenge, Brenek said that her favorite memory was beating the University of Texas Permian Basin in the team’s first series of conference games. “In game two we were down six runs and had to find a way to come back and win. We ended up coming back and winning the game on a walk-off. It’s my favorite memory because it showed that our team had the will to fight from behind and find a way to come out on top. It’s been the best team effort we’ve had all season and a great way to start the conference,” Brenek said.

Track

Ilana Anderson, hammer-throwing and dental hygiene freshman, was born in the United Kingdom but raised in

Canada. Anderson said it has been such an amazing experience being an international student and a member of the track team. “Getting to experience meets as an NCAA athlete and through MSU has been really awesome. Every meet so far has been a good introduction, especially since it’s still COVD-19 season, we haven’t been able to have as big of a season as we normally would’ve. However, I think it’s been a good time. I think we’ve been able to grow together as a team, starting from the beginning of the year to where we are now, we are a lot closer and it’s made it a lot easier to compete,” Anderson said.

to COVID-19 we have all worked through

Men’s Golf

from, but has high hopes for the coming

Lane Garcia, biology sophomore, said this season has been one of the most successful yet. “This has been a great season. As a team, we have all gotten better both mentally and physically. Even though practice, weight room sessions and team meetings have been a little different due

the new adjustments together, as a team, and have made the most of the season. My favorite memory of this season so far was when we went to our last tournament in the fall semester of this season; our team ended up taking the first-place spot,” Garcia said.

Women’s Golf Beatrice Perucchini, psychology sophomore, said this season was challenging, due to injuries the team had suffered fall season. “I could’ve played better individually; we had a lot of injuries that didn’t help us score at some of our tournaments. For fall, I cannot wait to meet the new recruits that are coming and also to have a bigger team,” Perucchini said

THE ASSISTANT IS A VALUABLE COMMENTARY BUT NOT A BLOCKBUSTER

PHOTO COUTRESY OF IMDB.COM

Julia Gardner in “The Assistant” (2019)

et in a New York film production office, “The Assistant” focuses on a receptionist who endures condescension, belittlement and gaslighting from her co-workers. This gaslighting happens as a consequence of the receptionJoseph ist discovering various clues Nelson alluding to sexual harassment. Through a 24-hour interval, we follow Jane, played by Julia Garner, to her “first one in, last one out” job, where she discovers an earring in her boss’ office. After this, she is pressured by her male co-workers to answer her boss’ wife and explain away the film executive’s constant absences and suspected infidelity. Garner’s convincing portrayal of uneasiness and conflict during this phone call is very compelling, as is her performance throughout the movie. As with many other moments in the film, the scene is punctuated by a phone call from the unnamed film executive, who verbally abuses Jane for unsuccessfully veiling his adulterous behavior. As the film progresses, Jane not only uncovers the “revolving door” apparatus that the film executive has cultivated but discovers how callous and accepting her co-workers are

toward the boss’ behavior. The movie is clearly inspired by the infamous network that Harvey Weinstein cultivated throughout his career. Even though the boss is never named or shown throughout the film, his gruff, distorted and deep voice clearly imitates Weinstein’s. The film also convincingly telegraphs how employees are suppressed into submission, by the various strings pulled by executives. However, the film also telegraphs the condescending and patronizing attitude male employees get away with, represented by how Jane’s male co-workers treat her. Portraying these interactions, the actors all balance on a double-edged sword of realism, admirable in craft but painful to watch, as their convincing portrayal is a reminder that these power dynamics still exist today. “The Assistant” is not a blockbuster film. You won’t hear a sharp violin sound every time sexual harassment is ignored or alluded to. You won’t see Jane walk in on her boss assaulting someone. You won’t see a climactic, Sherlock Holmes-esque reveal where all the clues are cut together in a montage. The film is not sensational or dramatized. You are a passive observer of an assistant, working in a dingy office space, demeaned by male employees, ig-

nored by others, going through mundane tasks and discovering all the signs of sexual abuse, except everyone else, acts like it doesn’t exist. While I wish some scenes were cut down to provide a more accessible movie for audiences, the film in its present form expects you to pay attention, get caught up in the atmosphere of the movie and put yourself in the shoes of the assistant, as she navigates the predatory world of big-city business. If you are expecting a sermon preaching against the patriarchy and denouncing all of the misogyny in the workplace, you will be disappointed by “The Assistant.” If you are expecting a realistic, documentary-style, atmospheric portrayal of what working in a claustrophobic, gloomy, Weinstein film office would feel like, you will enjoy the film. This isn’t to claim the movie doesn’t have anything to say. Because the film only subtly hints at the transgressions of the boss, the audience gets a sense of how easily deniable these accusations were among executives and employees. Not only that, the audience feels the anxiety and fear that Jane endures as she attempts to report these signs of sexual assault, as the HR reps and other coworkers act as though nothing is going on. The subtlety is evident in the Rotten Toma-

toes score for the film: a 92% critic score and a 25% audience score. Those expecting a mystery thriller involving a defiant and charismatic female protagonist were sorely disappointed. As mentioned before, the clues are as little as finding an earring or hearing a small piece of dialogue about the boss leaving for a five-star hotel. While most modern audiences expect a film to lay everything out on a silver platter, the film expects viewers to pay attention, to take their time and piece together the power dynamics and strings being pulled behind the scenes of the gloomy office. The film could have been trimmed down to offer a more concentrated dose of its message and render the film’s themes more accessible to a general audience. However, as it stands, “The Assistant” is a well-made movie that, given the patience and attention, provides a skillfully crafted portrayal of workplace abuse, from small degrees to significant.

Joseph’s Film Rating: 4/5

Edwin Bah

The man behind the “Go Lift” movement KHIRSTIA SHEFFIELD FEATURE EDITOR e’s a man that lives and breathes his brand. He’s a man that won’t stop at good enough. He’s a man that strives to break the generational curses of his family. He’s a man that sets a goal, and will go through any means to achieve it. “Being an entrepreneur means setting my family up for generational success,” Edwin Bah, graduate student of sports and leisure, said. “I feel like when people hear the word entrepreneur they just think of self, but to me it’s about longevity, it’s about setting yourself up, so that you don’t have to work anymore.” Tired of trying to fit inside a box everyone else wants to fit him in, Bah broke barriers by shutting out what others thought he could or

should do and trusted his intuition. “I don’t want to work for anybody,” Bah said. “I want to be my own boss. Seeing people like Mark Cuban, Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, motivates me to go above and beyond for my brand. I can’t stop and I won’t stop.” It all started during his senior year of undergrad while celebrating the legacy left behind by Robert Grays. Twenty-four push-ups seemed easy enough for a past all-state football player, but he would soon come to find out that the strength he spent years building on, slowly disappeared as he left that lifestyle on the backburner. Disappointed that he could only do seven push-ups, Bah went to the only place he knew could help. “We started going to the gym every day and we never missed a day, sometimes we even

went two times a day,” Bah said. “My roommate, Ashley Hill, and I were determined and that determination sparked a movement.” What started as Snapchat posts encouraging individuals to “Go Lift” led to a simple T-shirt design of a stick man with the bolded words “Go Lift B****” surrounding it. It’s simplicity resonated with people and in the first day of selling shirts they were sold out in less than 24 hours. “At that moment we knew we had something people wanted to buy,” Bah said. “We immediately started playing around with the image and sending off our ideas to graphic designers. From that moment on we took it seriously, and that’s the reason why the brand is what it is today.” Driven by his competitiveness and desire to

PHOTO BY RYAN CLAYTON | THE WICHITAN

Edwin Bah, graduate student of sports and leisure, lifting two 45lbs weights.

be number one at whatever he puts his mind to, Bah won’t just stop there. Focused on creating six streams of income for himself, Bah says the “Go Lift” movement is just a leg of the table he’s trying to build. “My number one goal in being an entrepreneur is to be the best, I want to be number one,” Bah said. “After graduating from undergrad and facing the real world, seeing how hard it is to get a job, I realized I had to create my own lane of success.” His unique stance on success follows closely through his movement. “If I can do it, you can too,” Bah said. “It all goes back to the person who made me realize that I appreciate my life, which is Robert Grays. You have legs, you have a life and you have a beating heart so go do it. Don’t be lazy and don’t waste your days on this Earth wishing you did, just go do it now.” Despite his efforts, being a Black entrepreneur in this world climate can present some challenges of its own. Bah explores the struggles of being a small business owner and a Black man in America, he says mixing the two together can be disastrous at times. “There’s no launching point for us,” Bah said. “It’s all pity parties and people just feeling sorry for you. We need more inclusion of Black entrepreneurs, we need a safe space for Black entrepreneurs and I feel like a lot of companies and institutions just don’t do that for us.” Although Bah faces new challenges every day, he turns every negative into fuel for his success. Bah says there is 365 days in a year and sometimes you’re going to have a few bad days here and there, but what matters the most is what you do after those bad days; do you keep going or do you let those bad days eat through that motivation and drive you’ve built? “A lot of people are wishing on your downfall and it’s hard to find people who genuinely care about your Black business, but I surround myself with people who know my pain and my experiences and we support each other,” Bah said. He’s a man of resiliency and he has just barely cracked the surface of his success. He hopes in the next five years his brand can reach a more diverse audience, and he plans to be more inclusive in his clothing items. “I hope the legacy will be that some crazy college kids actually put their dreams into fruition and that someone else can do it too, it’s just that easy,” Bah said.

MEET THE NEW

WITH A NEW SEMESTER COMES NEW POSSIBILITIES AND AN EVE Amos Perkins: Editor in Chief

Hi there! My name is Amos Perkins, and starting next fall I will be the editor-in-chief of The Wichitan. I am a 4-8 grade social studies education junior hoping to graduate in Spring 2023. I joined The Wichitan as a freshman who mostly wrote sports, before becoming managing editor and holding that title for the last year. Almost exactly a year ago, I got married to my high school sweetheart, the love of my life and fellow Mustang, Emma Midgette (now Perkins). In my spare time, I love writing fiction and collecting old maps and flags. I joined the paper, because I wanted friends and a place to belong. And I can honestly say The Wichitan has given me that and so much more. The people on the paper are truly like family to me. The outgoing seniors have elevated us to a place the paper has never been before, and I am so excited to see the amazing ways we can continue to grow.

Emily Beaman: News and Social Media Editor Hello hello! I’m Emily Beaman and come this fall, I’ll be the news editor and social media manager for The Wichitan! A couple of fun facts about me: I’m a political science major, I’m a Cards Against Humanity collector, I have a small Sonic obsession and my dog, Honeybee, is my best friend. I joined The Wichitan during the spring of my freshman year and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! Being part of this paper has made me love the news world more and helped shape me into a better journalist. The people I get to be around are so helpful, amazing and fun, and I’m so thankful I’ve been able to work with them in such an enthusiastic environment. I’d also love to hear from anybody who has any story ideas, but I also love random conversations, so feel free to reach out to me for anything and everything!

Stephanie Robledo: Managing Editor Hello! My name is Stephanie Robledo and this upcoming fall will be my third year with The Wichitan. Previously, I was news editor, but this time I’m coming back as managing editor. I have enjoyed my time at The Wichitan and hope to continue being part of this amazing team for as long as I’m at MSU. I’ve learned a lot as news editor and am excited to learn more and take on a larger role as a managing editor. More things about me: I am an English and mass communication junior, originally I’m from Dallas but have been living in Wichita Falls for two years now and my favorite color is pink. Outside of the newspaper, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy traveling and hope to do more of it in the future when everything goes back to normal.

writing and languages. I hope that ing, writing and meeting tons of pe I joined The Wichitan because I nalist and my eye as a designer. Th areas, but it has also given me ton really feels like a family! I’m so exci in this next year, and I can’t wait to will amplify next.

Colin Stevenson: Photography Editor Hello, again, for the first time! While COVID limited my participation in the paper this past year, I plan to come back full force and give my all! This will be my third year with The Wichitan, and I couldn’t be more excited to be working with such talented people. I hope to use my skills to benefit the campus, better the paper and grow as a person along the way. I’ll do my best to create fantastic pictures to complement our team’s amazing writing. Beyond my role with the paper, I am a mass communication junior from Fort Worth, a professional photographer with nearly 5 years of experience, a huge nerd and tech geek (I built my own PC and am very willing to discuss if you wish) and a bit of a goofball. I often keep a camera on me to be ready, so feel free to chat it up if you see me around!

ing stories in their notebook instea As an Afro-Latina, the two cultur and motivator for me; not only for Once I graduate from Midwestern S screen and become a news anchor/ change the culture and diversity in new position, I plan to continue exp to provide a platform where everyo

W SENIOR STAFF

EN NEWER THE WICHITAN STAFF. MEET THE TEAM FOR FALL 2021. Abigail Jones: Assistant Editor

Hello there! I’m Abigail Jones, your assistant editor. I’m a mass communication junior with a focus in public relations and advertising, and I like to do a little bit of everything for The Wichitan. From reporting, to layout and design, to copy editing, I’m your gal! I’m also a self-taught artist with my own business, and I have a love for t my future career involves traveleople. wanted to hone my voice as a jourhe Wichitan has helped me in those ns of new friends. The organization ited to grow the organization witho see what campus voices our team

Thalia Doe: Sports and Feature editor

Hello! My name is Thalia Doe, and I am the sports and feature editor of The Wichitan. I am a Spanish and mass communication senior with a minor in broadcast journalism. I joined The Wichitan in January 2021 because of my passion for writing and sharing stories with the world! Growing up, I was always that one kid in the back of the classroom writad of taking notes in class. res I share have been an inspiration my writing but also for my career. State, I plan on making it to the big /television host for Telemundo and n the newsroom. As I take on this panding diversity and inclusion and one feels they have a voice.

Omar Combie: Design Editor Hey guys! Guess who’s back again?! I, Omar Combie, will be reprising the position of design editor of The Wichitan for the upcoming academic year. For our readers who may not know me, I am a mass communication junior and international student. I come from the beautiful Caribbean island of St. Lucia. I have some MSU Texas alumni in my family, so it was through that connection, I ended up coming here in Fall 2019. Not too long into my first semester, I joined The Wichitan, and it has been an immensely valuable experience. I have been able to hone my graphic design skills significantly along with various soft skills including teamwork and leadership. I look forward to bringing you more eye-catching designs next semester.

Joseph Nelson: Entertainment Editor Hey everyone! My name is Joseph Nelson, and I am an English major graduating in 2022. I joined The Wichitan in the Fall of 2020, and I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to publish my writing and get to know the hardworking and innovative students involved in the paper. From writing articles about campus events to the occasional opinion piece on national issues, I consider myself lucky to have found such a great outlet for engaging with my campus community. I spend my free time working on creative writing and video editing, both of which inform my ambition to one day produce my own films. As a reporter and editor, I am committed to offering MSU students a paper that presents fair and engaging visions of our campus and the world outside it, from news articles to op-eds.

Alexis Martin: Business Manager Hey y’all! My name is Alexis Martin and I’m the business manager for The Wichitan! I joined during the 2021 spring semester when a position opened up for business manager and have felt at home ever since. The atmosphere at The Wichitan is kind and supportive and I look forward to spending my last semester in college at this paper. As business manager, my job is to find businesses that want to advertise with us. The interest in advertising comes from my internship at a local radio station. I’m a true crime junkie and I love spending time with my family and friends! I hope to work in radio and advertising after I graduate! I will be graduating from MSU in December of 2021 with a degree in mass communication and a minor in digital media!

Dallas Wabbington: Cartoonist Hi, how are ya? I am THE Dallas Wabbington (and not Dallas, Fort Worth). I’m continuing my position as a reporter and going into my second year as the cartoonist for The Wichitan. I am an English senior working on my teaching certification for grades 7-12. Moving from a small school district to a university was a big change, and I have enjoyed so many different opportunities and experiences. With my love for writing, it was only natural that I would use my skills to contribute to the university. I joined The Wichitan towards the end of my sophomore year at MSU and feel that I have truly grown as both a person and a writer. I have met a lot of pretty cool people and have had the honor to write so many stories that catch the eye of so many readers. All I want to provide in my stories is a chance for readers to see a different perspective.

G R A D U AT I N G MUSTA N GS AMOS PERKINS MANAGING EDITOR here are a number of reasons students choose to attend MSU Texas. A few graduating seniors shared their reasons for coming to MSU, and whether those reasons ended up being a good enough reason to stay.

Crege La Ronde, mechanical engineering Why did you choose MSU? “I thought that coming to MSU would be a great introduction to entering the United States.” Did that reason hold up? “I have had so many opportunities present themselves to me because I am a student here. I believe that the choice I made to come here, although very rushed out of the blue, was the right choice.”

Madelyn Williams, kinesiology Why did you choose MSU? “It was close to my home.” Did that reason hold up? “My overall time was good at MSU; I would choose to leave town for college if I had to do it again. I believe that I would have experienced more living on campus whether that was at MSU or another college.”

Alexis Valenzuela, social work

Caleb Crawley, marketing

Why did you choose MSU? “Honestly, I never knew about MSU until it was recommended to me. As soon as I stepped foot on campus, I fell in love. It immediately felt like home.”

Why did you choose MSU? “I wanted to be closer to my family and the size of Midwestern State was what I was looking for.”

Did that reason hold up? “I never once through my years at MSU felt like this wasn’t home.... If I had the choice between MSU and another university, I would hands down choose MSU again. I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am without giving credit to the university and its organizations.”

Jake Clancy, mass communication Why did you choose MSU? “I chose MSU because it was local, and I didn’t want to go far away without knowing what I wanted to do.” Did that reason hold up? “Staying with a school this size was good, because there wasn’t too much pressure to pick a major, and I had time to figure out what I wanted to pursue. Knowing the area and having local friends already helped a lot... and I never felt lost or alone...”

Did that reason hold up? “The decision did hold up because I was able to see my family whenever and I become close with several people on campus. I was also able to get involved in different organizations of my choice!”

Savannah Rodriguez, early childhood-6th grade education Why did you choose MSU? “I chose MSU because it was close to home and had an amazing scholarship opportunity for me!” Did that reason hold up? ”I definitely do not regret any of my time at MSU. Honestly, MSU was one of my last choices, but I’m glad that I followed my gut and made the decision to go here.”

April 19, 2021

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