February 8, 2017 by The Wichitan and Wai Kun

Feb. 08, 2017 | Midwestern State University | thewichitan.com | Your Campus. Your News. | Vol. 81 No. 18

$37.7

MILLION money allocated for personnel

Discover MSU

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24 students and 29 guests visit the Fain Fine Arts building during Discover MSU on Feb. 3

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Students, staff and community rally against the Executive Order. To see more pictures visit the photo gallery online at http://thewichitan.com/exec-order-rally/

Couple Artists

total number of full-time employees, administrators, faculty and staff

Husband and wife display their art at the Wichita Falls Museum of Art.

total number of full-time staff

Immediate hiring freeze issued on Jan. 31 KARA MCINTYRE EDITOR

he order from Gov. Greg Abbott was simple — an immediate hiring freeze. The initial reaction to the memo from Texas state Budget Director Steven Albright, however, was one of immediate concern. State employees were worried about the impact on their jobs and how vacant positions would be filled. The freeze, effective until the end of the fiscal year, bans agencies under the direction of the governor as well as institutions of higher education from posting new jobs or filling ones that are vacant, except for positions not funded through state appropriated funds and positions that have a direct impact on public safety. “We have a lot of positions that are not paid for by state funds, such as the provost position, police officers, housing, IT, rec center employees,” Marilyn Fowlé, vice president of administration and finance, said. “Those positions are paid for by tuition and fees or housing payments, so they aren’t affected by the hiring freeze.” Abbott predicts that this freeze will free up about $200 million, which will be used for emergency salary increases for Child Protective Services employees. In the most recent legislative session, the pay raises were already made, so the hiring freeze is supposed to provide the money for those pay raises immediately.

staff position affected by governor’s order Personnel information obtained as of Dec. 31, 2016 from Board of Regents packet, Feb. 9 -10, 2017. Yet, when it came right down to it, at least initially, only one vacant position on campus that cannot be filled because of the hiring freeze: a custodian. “[The hiring freeze] doesn’t hurt us too much,” Fowlé said. “We won’t be able to fill that custodial position until Sept. 1, but that’s the only position affected as of right now.” How the contracts of one-year faculty members would be renewed concerned some faculty. But Fowlé said that’s a separate issue from the hiring freeze. “Those faculty members’s contracts are up in May, and then whether we choose to renew the contracts are not is a separate conversation,” Fowlé said. “The renewal would start on Sept. 1, and by that point the hiring freeze

FROM THE BUDGET DIRECTOR’S MEMO

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Gov Abbott says ‘freeze’ T

Students Rally

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• “As previously communicated, exempted from the hiring freeze are (1) positions not funded through funds appropriate by the legislature; and (2) positions that have a direct impact on public safety.”

• “Per Governor Abbott’s directive, agencies under the direction of the Governor should institute an immediate hiring freeze through the end of the fiscal year. No agency should post a new position or fill a vacated position.

would be over.” In addition to the previously mentioned exemptions, waivers for certain critical positions will be accepted and considered to be exempt from the hiring freeze, as well. There are four ways that future faculty positions could be affected, according to Fowlé. “From this point on, if a faculty or staff member is fired, resigns, quits, or passes away, those positions cannot be filled unless the governor accepts a waiver to fill said position,” Fowlé said. “That’s when something would change for us.” Debra Wynne, assistant professor of radiologic sciences, said she was surprised about the freeze. “I was surprised [when I found out about the freeze], but we’re all kind of surprised when we hear about stuff like that,” Wynne said. “It kind of makes you think and wonder what’s going to happen, but it’s pretty much a waiting game.” Any job offers that were extended prior to Jan. 31 may be honored, according to the memo sent out by Steven Albright, budget director for the governor. “By being good stewards of public resources, Gov. Abbott knows all agencies will be able to implement this action while continuing to provide excellent customer service to the taxpayers of this state,” Albright said in his memo. Despite multiple attempts, Director of Board and Government Relations Debbie Barrow was unavailable for comment.

Exempted from this directive are positions not funded through funds appropriated by the legislature, as well as positions that have a direct impact on public safety. Savings realized from this action should not be used for other purposes.” • “This directive only affects agencies under the direction of the Governor as well as institutions of higher education. This directive does not affect agencies under the direction of other state wide elected officials.”

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STAF F E D I T O R I A L

Construction breaks quiet hours OUR VIEW: Construction disrupts dorm-life

he world knows that the glass-faced, moneyless, starving zombies walking around wearing university-associated clothing known as college students are desperate for as much sleep as they can get. The students living on our campus are more desperate for sleep than the rest of their fellow commuter zombies, because the dorms’ quiet hours that are meant for sleeping are being intruded by jackhammers, beeping trucks and other noises the construction workers are making. While the construction is necessary, the constant disrupt of sleep is taking students away from rest that is needed for full brain function. If the construction hours would adhere to the quiet hours set by University Housing, students would be able to gain enough sleep for their brain to function at a level needed for university courses. Waking students up around 6 a.m. when the quiet hours are supposed to be until 10 a.m. not only will bring suffering to students’ GPA, but also makes the quiet hours completely false. If construction workers are allowed to make an abundance of noise that early, then a rave at that time should be allowed too. Students requesting that construction workers be constricted to the same time frame of noise that the rest of the campus adheres to, or at least a little closer to 10 a.m. is not far-fetched or outrageous and needs to be done.

wichitan

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Vol. 81 | No. 18

Midwestern State University Fain Fine Arts Bldg., Room B103 3410 Taft Blvd. Box 14 Wichita Falls, Texas 76308 (940) 397-4704 • wichitan@mwsu.edu thewichitan.com • @wichitanonline

Fraternities stress focus on grades

reek life is an experience like no can help mold not only better students, but better men other you can find in college. It in all aspects. This is always conveyed by us to students affects every aspect of life during looking to join a fraternity. We want them to know that these few exciting years, whether it be so- we joined for the brotherhood and the exciting lifestyle it cial relationships, philanthropic activities, brings, but that there is also much more to it than what is or creating lifelong connectypically portrayed by the media. tions. Greek life on this campus truly does help However, there is one students propel themselves to be better inRyan aspect of Greek life that dividuals than when they first came to colFidlar many overlook — the strive lege. This has been shown numerous times, to have members of chapters excel in their especially over the last five years. academics. Since 2011, the all Greek GPA has exI cannot speak directly for other fraterniceeded the all campus average each semesties on campus, but in my fraternity, Sigma ter. This means that on average, members Alpha Epsilon, or SAE, members are coninvolved with a Greek organization do stantly pushed to make grades the number better in achieving academic success than one priority and I am sure other fraternities non-affiliated members. This, to me, seems are similar to us in this way. like substantial evidence that grades are Of course there are many other things truly something that the Greek community RYAN FIDLAR SAE PRESIDENT that come up and take time away from takes very seriously. studying, but in the end we all realize that People who are coming to college should we are here in school to do: get good grades and get a job take this into consideration when thinking about whether after graduation so that we can pay off our student loans. to join a Greek organization. We have the tools necessary In my SAE chapter, we implement multiple programs to to excel in careers, both here in school and even into the help our members study and motivate them to do well real world after graduation. Who knows, when going to in classes. These programs include required study hours your first job interviews after graduation, having a few ex(number of hours depending on GPA) and a scholarship tra letters on your resume might strike a connection with program for members who have especially excelled in an employer that lands you the job. their academics. Ryan Fidlar is a mechanical engineering junior and SAE We believe that a fraternity is an incredible tool which President.

“Greek life on this campus truly does help students propel themselves to be better individuals.”

Greek life strives ‘for best GPA possible’ Greek life has always been one of those things that I dreamed about becoming apart of as a little girl, from the dressing up, to the fun parties and even the studying with sisters. Alpha Phi has really pushed me to stay on top of my academic studies and really strive for the best GPA possible. While the movies don’t always make Keeley studying while in Greek life look as imporTrevino tant as it should, the reality is that Alpha Phi actually pushed both me and my sisters to improve our individual GPAs as well as our overall grade point average. Our sisters work on study hours daily, ranging from freshman English all the way to senior level courses. And while they aren’t always convenient, these study hours are there to help our girls raise our grade point averages. Grades have always been something that have been

important to me — throughout high school, it was always one of my goals to do the best in all of my classes while still maintaining a social life and having a job. Being a part of Alpha Phi has really helped me with all of these things and helps me be more productive in all aspects of my life. The ever-changing culture of my sorority is helping drive me and my sisters to better grades, and bigger dreams. With all of my sisters’ help, it will be an easy accomplishment to improve our grades this semester as well as the future ones to come. The ladies of Alpha Phi are learning that even though staying in and studying while everyone else is going to Lonestar isn’t always the most fun option, it is important to the future of our chapter as well as our personal futures. Keeley Trevino is an early childhood education junior and Alpha Phi president.

EDITOR: Kara McIntyre

DESIGN EDITOR: Justin Marquart

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.

FEATURES EDITOR: Brendan Wynne PHOTOGRAPHERS: Justin Marquart, Bridget Reilly, Arianna Davis, Timothy Jones

ISSUE STAFF: Kara McIntyre, Ryan Fidlar, Keeley Trevino, Robin Reid, Caleb Martin, Sarah Graves, Ryane Hatten, Lane Riggs, Arianna Davis, Leonardo Gonzalez

ADVISER: Bradley Wilson

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.

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53 prospective students, guests Discover MSU ROBIN REID REPORTER

t was a crisp, gray morning as 24 students and 29 guests entered the winding halls of Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts, on Feb. 3, in attendance for the first Discover MSU event of 2017. Sponsored by the admissions department, Discover MSU is in its fourth year and is offered at every college on campus, designed to give prospective students the opportunity to gain an in depth look into the programs offered at the university. Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts is comprised of two buildings housing programs in art, mass communication, music and theatre. Mandi Peterman, assistant director of admissions said, “We find that a lot of our students want to dive deeper into their majors and the departments, so we’re able to offer that. The goal is to bring prospective students on campus to learn more about the departments they’re interested in. We also like to bring the faculty and staff to the forefront and really let them meet the students and form those early relationships that will bring them back.” As students and guests treated themselves to cups of warm coffee, they began to gather in the open atrium and soon filtered into the theater, where they shared what brought them in for Discover MSU, while they waited for introductions to begin. Anissa Williams, Burkburnett High School senior said, “Well, I was planning on going to the University of North Texas, but my grandpa thought it would be recommended to attend Midwestern State University for a full year and if I’m doing well within the first semester, then we could see if I could transfer to UNT, then. I’m feeling that if I did like it, I would probably consider staying just depending on my overall situation and how I’m doing personally. You know, there’s still a lot to learn about Midwestern.” Garrison Tucker, Wichita Falls High School senior said, “Fain Fine Arts Program, I’m most interested in music and music education. I want to become a high school band director one day and help kids find extreme passion in music, just like I do. I’ve played saxophone for almost seven years now.” Students and guests were welcomed by Dr. Martin Camacho, Dean of Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts followed by introductions from Dr. Elizabeth Lewandowski, theatre department chair and professor, Dr. Ann Marie Leimer, art department chair and associate professor, Dr. Matthew Luttrell, music associate professor and Dr. Bradley Wilson, mass communication department assistant professor. After introductions were completed, stu-

PHOTO BY JUSTIN MARQUART | THE WICHITAN

Ann Marie Leimer, chair of the art department, talks to prospective students about the art program during Discover MSU on Feb. 3. dents and guests were split into groups, according to program of interest, to begin their tours and rejoined in the theater for lunch. Current students also had a part to play in helping prospective students and guests Discover MSU. A student panel formed of eight mass communication students and four prospective students was held in the conference room, as a slideshow of the new mass communication building played on the TV. Current students shared their experiences within the mass communication department as well as conversed with the prospective students to welcome them, answer questions and help them understand the close-knit relationship within the department. Faculty, students and guests enjoyed a Chartwells catered lunch on stage, where they ate and chatted about the events of the day. Discover MSU was not only exciting and helpful to students, but parents had their own thoughts as well. Danielle Sheffield, mother of Mesquite High School senior Khirstia Sheffield, said her favorite part of Discover MSU was “definitely speaking with Dr. Sernoe. To me, the time that each of the professors take out to come and do a presentation for the parents. I think that just gives me such a personal feeling or even helps me to decide, if I hadn’t decided

already, that this is a good place to come because of the personal connection. I think that’s the key word, accessible.” Khirstia Sheffield, Mesquite High School senior, said her favorite part of Discover MSU was “getting the personal connection because, I don’t know, every other visit I’ve had, I’ve never gotten that connection so it was very important to get that. I’ve visited four schools.” She also said Discover MSU made her feel more confident in her decision to attend MSU because “they were saying they feel like they’re very prepared for life after college, that’s very reassuring that what I’m going to do is going to make me money.” Not every prospective student is a graduating high school senior. Some students arrive as transfer students and quickly find Midwestern State University to be a good choice. Lake Wood College graduate, Vincent Sargent was attending Discover MSU as a transfer student. Sargent said his favorite part of Discover MSU was “Meeting the faculty and being able to get to know them. Getting to know what type of professors there are, their personalities, everybody has their own personality. Everybody seemed to be really friendly. Seeing the studio, although I’ve seen the studio already, but I’m excited to see the new studio. I’m doing broadcast. I graduated from North

Lake, so I have a degree in video technology. I’m doing film work and also videography. This is just to get more experience in the broadcasting aspect.” Sometimes one student can make the difference for another student, as Sargent recalled when he shared what was the deciding factor in his decision to attend MSU. A-Team member, Kara McPherson ultimately helped him seal his decision. Sargent said, “Actually, believe it or not, I had a tour with Kara. She was the one that convinced me that this is where I needed to come. She was the one who sold me on the idea of coming here. Today just cemented that. I’m here, I’m starting in the fall. All the paperwork is turned in, so I’m ready to start.” After lunch, students and guests met in the atrium one last time where they enjoyed a reception and either said their goodbyes, or chose to go on a university and housing tour. Students had final thoughts about their confidence to attend MSU after engaging with faculty, current students and touring the departments to get a better feel for the environment. Tucker said, “I feel like I know some of the music professors now. I kind of have a feel for how they are and how they teach. I really like the campus too, it’s really nice. It seems homey.” Williams said, “My favorite part was how the faculty came and communicated with the students, non-formally. They were opening and welcoming. They acted like they were one of you. It was very down to earth, it wasn’t too formal. It was comfortable. I felt accepted, I felt like I could tell them everything, I felt like I had met them before. It was unforgettable. I got to be hands-on, and I got to walk through the facility and see some of the students working. I got to see how they were able to concentrate, able to learn, and I was able to see how people acted. I was able to see how it truly was. I felt like beforehand I didn’t know, because all I saw was the outside, but now that I saw the inside, I understand it’s big and grand in its own way. It’s affordable, it’s like home, and I was able to understand I didn’t need to go somewhere 20,000 miles away when it’s already right here.” The first Discover MSU event of 2017 left admissions staff, Lamar D. Fain College of Fine Arts faculty and prospective students and guests feeling good about the possibilities. Peterman said, “I hope they take away excitement about getting to college and what we can offer them at this university.” With laughter in her voice as she reflected on her last thought of the day, Williams said, “I don’t know why people would look this place over!”

DATES FOR THE REMAINING DISCOVER MSU EVENTS Feb. 10 Dillard College of Business Administration | Feb. 17 College of Science and Mathematics | Feb. 24 Robert D. & Carol Gunn College of Health Science & Human Services March 3 Gordon T. & Ellen West College of Education | March 10 Prothro-Yeager College of Humanities and Social Sciences

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Students rally against executive or CALEB MARTIN REPORTER

tudents gathered at the Jesse W. Rogers Promenade, or Mustangs Walk, the afternoon of Feb. 1 to rally against President Trump’s executive order on immigration. Trump’s executive order was put into action with the intention of mitigating the risk of a terrorist attack within the U.S. The executive order also called for improved vetting of individuals wishing to enter the country. People across the nation have spoken out against the executive order calling it “unconstitutional” and “xenophobic.” The rally, a joint venture between the Sociology Students Association, or SSA, and People Respecting Identity Diversity for Everyone, or PRIDE, included roughly 70 students and some faculty. “After everything that happened on Friday [the executive order], I felt like there are many international students here at MSU who probably feel unsafe who have parents who are immigrants, and they’re worried because ‘who’s next?’,” Maureen Trussell, humanities senior and organizer of the rally, said. “I wanted people to feel supported and loved, and to know that they are not alone.” Students at the rally expressed dissent towards the executive order, holding up signs that read “immigrants make America great,” and, “you belong, stay strong.” MSU is an international school hosting students from 53 countries, and is also the workplace of numerous professors who have immigrated to the United States. “I don’t understand exactly what it’s [executive order] about because, obviously, it’s somewhat Muslim [targeted], but there’s other Muslim countries that weren’t banned,” Cecilia Pasillas, sociology sophomore and PRIDE treasurer, said. She said that the countries listed on Trump’s executive order had not produced a terrorist attack on U.S. soil, while some countries that had produced terrorist attacks such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia were not on the list. “He has business ties with the countries that aren’t banned. Maybe it’s the money? I just want to know ‘why?’” Pasillas said. Pasillas said she stands with a group of people who ask the same question as her, wondering why countries like Saudi Arabia, who had ties to 15 of the 19 9/11 hijackers, weren’t put on the 90 day ban list. Some students in the rally declared the executive order a “tool of fear,” stating that it unjustifiably demonizes a religious group. Students said they fear that the executive order

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

Brady Burross, mechanical engineering senior, speaking to the student media about why he thinks the immigration executive order is a good idea. In the background are ralliers silently protesting. The rally against the immigration executive order on Feb. 1. will only widen the “racist hole” in the United State’s heart. “The legacy of segregation is still very heavy in this country,” Aaron DeVaul, psychology junior, said. “I believe that all people are created equal, no matter their background, or their position in the world. Seeing the exact same cycle of oppression being seen in the Muslim community worldwide today, I believe that all people should be able to live in this country free and able to pursue their dreams to the highest degree.” Some faculty joined in the rally, taking their own stance. “We are very angry at the governor because he just put a freeze on all hiring in state universities in Texas and we have four job searches open and now we don’t know what we’re going to do,” Kirsten Lodge, English, humanities and philosophy professor, said. “I think they [the executive order and Gov. Abbot’s hiring freeze] are related because the governor just all of a sudden enforced this ban out of the blue just like Trump did.” Lodge said she found the rally to be appropriate in light of the recent political events. “I think it’s good, in general, for students to get

politically involved no matter what side they’re on,” Lodge said. Wearing his “Make America Great Again” hat, Brady Burross, engineering senior, watched as the rally took place. “A lot of things are misinformation. They [the students in the rally] say it’s a Muslim ban, but there’s over 40 Muslim countries that can still travel freely,” Burros said. “He’s only banning countries that Obama put on the terror list. It’s just for 90 days, just a second to get our breath, fix the vetting process, and then take it from there. I never knew the government could work this fast.” The executive order bans entry to the United States from seven Muslim-majority countries — Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Yemen and Sudan — for 90 days, and suspends all refugee admission for 120 days. The order can also be extended upon further review by President Trump. In addition, the executive order states “the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security may submit to the President the names of any additional countries recommended for similar treatment.” The current vetting process for gaining the status of refugee in the United States can take

at least two years, with searches and intense inte According to an immigration risks by the who has been accepted in refugee, Syrian or otherw in the execution of a ma since the Refugee Act of 1 Terrorist attacks often within the United States. Omar Mateen, the m 49 people at Pulse nightc was an American citizen parents immigrated to th Mateen’s widow, Noor Sa California. Her parents im Bank. Neither Afghanistan listed in the countries b order. The San Bernardino sh inspired Trump’s travel b 28-year-old Syen Rizwan Illinois. His wife, Tashfeen Pakistan and later moved the US on a K-1 fiancé vis Neither Pakistan nor in the countries banned The K-1 fiancé visa progr application. The worry of an inc Muslims in Wichita Falls MSU is becoming a mor future, according to som rally. Students of the Mus or MSA, know the fear m is new to campus, its mem form an organization they than ever. “My parents came from unbearable to live, and was supposed to welcom psychology junior and M always act like we’re the world, and we’re suppose where is that? I don’t se really upsetting.” MSA members said t confusion when Trump into effect. “People shouldn’t be fo when they’re already here make the world a better p to stay in their country,” management sophomore

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creasing hatred towards s and Muslim students at re possible and dreadful me of the students in the slim Student Association, more than most. The MSA mbers coming together to y say is needed now more

m countries where it was I thought this country me people,” Lena Azzouz, MSA member, said. “We moral policemen of the ed to accept people, but ee that anymore and it’s

they felt unfairness and put the executive order

orced to have to go home e to get an education and place. They should be able Karema Sallam, business e and MSA member, said.

Students and faculty march through the streets of MSU’s campus to rally against the immigration executive order on Feb. 1. Some members feel that the order is offensive. “A lot of people see these refugees as these uneducated, very corrupt, savage people, but they’re not. We tend to blame the people that are effected. We tend to blame the oppressed instead of the oppressor,” Asma Mohammed, radiologic science freshman and MSA member, said. “They didn’t ask for this. They didn’t ask to leave. It was either life or death, or try to come here [the U.S.] to survive. I think it’s very unfair how we’re supposed to be helping the ones that need it the most, but instead we’ve turned our backs completely.” The MSA joined in the rally to show that they believe the actions of the few do not reflect the many, and that they’re not going to be persecuted for the actions of another. “When a terrorist attack happens by a Muslim, Muslims as a whole are supposed to condemn the terrorist. They make us feel as if this is on us when we completely condemn that [murder] in our hearts. Christians don’t have to apologize for the actions of the KKK every second of their lives, but we are expected to apologize for these terrorist attacks that we completely condemn and hate

with all our hearts,” Azzouz said. “Why are we taken out of context like we’re not American? It hurts us too.” MSA members stressed their patriotism because they see themselves as Americans, and wish that others would see them as Americans too. “Why do I, as a Muslim, have to explain myself in class? Have to defend myself and my whole religion in front of everyone? To my professors, some of them are very unaccepting of everything, and do I not have the same rights as everyone else? I’m an American citizen just as much as everyone else is,” Sallam said. The executive order is expected to have little impact on the school according to University President Suzanne Shipley, but some students think otherwise. “It [the executive order] divides us in a way, but if anything this demonstration today proved that it can unite us,” Trussell said. “Especially if we all fight for what we believe in - equality, acceptance, inclusion, diversity. Everything that makes this country great. I feel like if we make our voices heard, then this can be a unifying thing.”

PHOTO BY BRIDGET REILLY | THE WICHITAN

Students and faculty in the rally shared concern for the students and faculty effected by the ban, and the rights that are slowly being taken away from them as citizens or legal guests in the United States. “I think that any kind of restriction on the freedom of travel is abusive and I think it goes against the idea that in the constitution there is this notion of the pursuit of happiness and that pursuit involves travel, the right to education, the right to healthcare, and the right to a space where your particular human rights are not taken from you without your permission,” Brinton Coxe, assistant professor of humanities, said. The students of the SSA, PRIDE and MSA said they want to reach out to those effected by the ban, to encourage them not to give up hope. “We are with you, and we love you and we support you and we are fighting for you. We’re going to fight as hard as we can and they should too. They shouldn’t give up because this country is great and we would love to have them,” Trussell said.

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Fall 2011

Fall 2012

Fall 2013

Fall 2014

Fall 2015

Fall 2016

MULTICULTURAL GREEK COUNCIL NPC SORORITIES

NERDOLOGY The area of knowledge often thought of as Nerdy. This includes (but is not limited to): technology, Star Trek, cosplay, anime, gaming, Star Wars, programming, coding, computers.

50 students participate in pop culture competition SARAH GRAVES REPORTER

he students anxiously awaited explanation of the next category: “Lists of Fury.” The object of the category was to name 10 different courses that fictional character, Harry Potter, studied at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The room fell silent as the subtle murmurs of huddled teams competed only with the short, stabbing ticks of the clock. The University Programming Board hosted Nerdology, an interactive pop culture trivia competition, for students in the Market Street Learning Commons in Legacy Hall on Feb. 3, reporting an attendance of almost 50 students. Ruby Arriaga, student development and orientation activities coordinator, said UPB’s goal for this event was to get attendees to have a great time while discussing pop culture. Arriaga said UPB chairs participated in a mock Nerdology game at a conference, and figured students would enjoy a similar experience. Students were quizzed on categories such as “Say What You Meme” and “The Sound of the Nerdy,” also including mini-games to promote audience participation. Students were able to win gift cards, candy and Mustang memorabilia from the bookstore for correct answers. “I came to Nerdology because I didn’t have anything better to do on Friday night,” Austin King, education junior said. “I thought it might be fun, and it gives me a chance to make new friends.” Kirsten Durr, sociology junior, said her favorite part was “watching the students act out a blender and a giraffe” during one of the mini-games, and would like to participate again if given the chance. John Smith, psychology and philosophy junior, said he enjoyed “The Sound and The Nerdy” category most, though the best part of his night was when he went on stage to impersonate the villain, Majin Buu, from Dragon Ball Z, a Japanese anime television series, during a mini-game to see who could prepare the best supervillain impersonation.

ALL CAMPUS IFC FRATERNITIES

IFC FRATERNITIES n High = 2.62 Fall 2016

NPC SORORITIES n High = 2.90 Fall 2016

MULTICULTURAL GREEK COUNCIL n High = 3.08 Fall 2015

ALL CAMPUS n Average = 2.79 Fall 2016

Greek grades on increase Wolfe says administration is determined to keep improving Greek life academically, and has put forth ccording to Associate Vice President of Student action in doing so. “Administration has reached out to both me and my Affairs Matthew Park, the fall 2016 semester was the first time the Greek system outperformed council. Before the semester, administration began to the campus averages academically. While Greeks say, ‘we’re going to push an education as first priority’ and saw an overall rise in their GPAs, nine Greek chapters that they’ve already reached out to each chapter,” Wolfe experienced a decrease in their GPA averages for the fall said. “I don’t know necessarily what administration has up their sleeve when they see chapters slip and not 2016 semester. “Right now within the Greek life room, make the grades for several semesters in a row. I do know administration has made it very clear that our number that they’ve made it very clear that action will be taken and that grades will be addressed. With the one priority should be education. new faculty that’s involved, I have all the Regardless of any types of flux, whether confidence that they’re very serious.” you increase or decrease from the Meanwhile, Chi Omega has its own previous semester,” Hunter Wolfe, methods to install academic achievement. interfraternity council president, said. “We have scholarships and study hours, “I am happy to see that some groups especially for our new members. We stress moved up, but I am unhappy to see tutoring and study halls. It’s important to that some groups went down. This stay on top of grades,” Morris said. has already been addressed with the Wolfe said that although his chapter, chapters. We are working in full courts Kappa Alpha Order fraternity, has had with the university and with whatever trouble in the past with grades, they have resources we have to help those increased their overall GPA over the last chapters.” three years. Among the chapters that “I don’t think it debunks anything, it is experienced a decrease were Chi what you make of it and joining Greek life Omega, Sigma Kappa, Kappa Delta Chi, HAILEY MORRIS has been beneficial for me and some of my CHI OMEGA PRESIDENT Omega Delta Phi, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, friends,” he said. Alpha Phi, Kappa Sigma and Sigma Nu. According to Wolfe, neither he nor administration “Well, it could be a number of different issues. Every organization has bad members, I believe organizations expect grades to dwindle much longer. “I don’t believe it will [dwindle] with who we have have low, middle and high-tier members that contribute,” Wolfe said. “Sometimes you get these low in charge and who’s directly leading the way for Greek or middle tier members that don’t contribute and can be life. We’re putting the tracks down right now, so it’s more hurtful to the chapters. Some people lose track of not going to get fixed over night. It’s a process and it priority, forgetting to put their education first. If you’re takes time,” Wolfe said. “We’re trying to lay a strong going to be involved in the Greek life then I think your foundation so we know where it’s going. I’m doing number one priority should be trying to better yourself what I can with my council to make these changes for the benefit of everyone.” and the others around you.” Wolfe said that although he believes a high number According to Chi Omega President Hailey Morris, her sorority is still excelling and trying to better themselves. of members is important, quality beats quantity. “I’ve heard some chapter officers preach about “I’m proud of my sorority’s grades, it’s pretty normal for members to experience a decrease in GPA during growth and wanting Greek life to be larger,” he said. the fall. It’s much slower with all the new members “That is something we want here at Midwestern, but adjusting to college life, as well as previous members at the same time we can’t, and won’t, sacrifice our standards.” returning from summer break,” Morris said. RYANE HATTEN REPORTER

“We have scholarships and study hours, especially for our new members. We stress tutoring and study halls.”

| Feb. 08, 2017 | 7

SGA holds first meeting of the semester ARIANNA DAVIS REPORTER

enators, committee chairs and faculty members of Student Government Association came together to bring the first SGA meeting of the semester on Feb. 7. The meeting brought up open elections for executive positions on SGA, announcements from both the committees and student organizations, as well as more information on the extended The Mustang Shuttle bus routes provided on campus. “Usually the president and vice president get together and come up with an agenda,” Maria Rena, student assistant of SGA, said. “We also give a session for senators to decide if they want to talk about other things or make changes to the agenda list.” According to Rena, students are not allowed to partake in the voting process, but they are still encouraged to come and observe the meetings as a way to understand what is going on around campus. There was talk of open elections for those interested in applying for an executive position in SGA, including president, vice president, secretary, or class senator. “Since they [the students] aren’t part of a registered organization, they are unable to vote. But, they can still come watch the meetings,” Rena said. “Any student can be a part of SGA, but they have to be a senator for a student organization, a chair of a committee, or a class senator to actually vote.” Application deadline for executive positions is Feb. 12. To be a senator, students must be appointed by the organization

PHOTO BY ARIANNA DAVIS | THE WICHITAN

Matthew Park, associate vice president of student affairs, discusses adding an additional day to the Mustangs Shuttle at the SGA meeting on Feb. 7. leader in order to participate in SGA meetings. Jessie Tidwell, science education freshman, is the senator for People Respecting Identity Diversity for Everyone, or PRIDE, and talked about his experience with SGA. “It keeps me informed and gives me tasks to help out with

around campus,” Tidwell said. “I help vote, I give my voice. When we host an event, I help out. I’m usually the one buying the food. I don’t have much power in PRIDE itself, but being a senator still allows me to get my toes in the water as a freshman.” Alonzo Chapa, environmental science sophomore, stood to speak for a new group on campus, the Environmental Student Organization. Plans set forth for the group’s agenda includes various activities involving student community services, as well as helping to improve environmental consciousness on campus. Toward the end of the meeting, Matthew Park, associate vice president for student affairs, brought attention to the new extended hours for The Mustang Shuttle. The changes include adding an all new six-hour route on Sundays. As for the expense, $210 will come out of the SGA budget to pay for it. Voting for this motion will occur in a future meeting. For those interested, Ricinda Turner, senator for Mustang Maniacs, advised students to come out to meetings and see what is going on around campus. “Just come out to the meetings. Sometimes they’re long, but they can be informative,” Turner said. “If you want to be a part of SGA, you can apply as a class senator for your classification or be part of a committee. You don’t have to be in an [campus/student] organization to participate.” The remaining SGA meetings will take place in Dillard room 101 at 7 p.m. every first and third Tuesday of the month.

Financial aid informs incoming students, parents LEONARDO GONZALEZ REPORTER

TANT PROFE ASSIS THEAT SSOR RE OF

bout 50 students and parents gathered in the Comanche Suites Feb. 7 to learn about the availability of financial aid and the admission requirements for incoming students. The Financial Aid Night’s main speaker, Kathy Pennartz-Browning, director of financial aid, made her presentation visible to the audience while she spoke about the importance of planning ahead for your finances. Financial Aid Night is the first time the university has held an event like this. “We [the financial aid office] have been doing similar presentations since the November time frame,” Browning said. “We’ve probably [hosted] and will [host] 75-100 events.” Browning and nine other staff members travel to areas reaching out to high schools about the importance of financial aid. The start up date for Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, changed from Jan. 1 to Oct. 1. “President Obama put this into place as part of his initiative for students to know information sooner, so they could be better prepared in making college choices,” Browning said. Although the start up to complete FAFSA was pushed back, March 1 remains as the priority deadline for applicants. Prospective student, Jabril Escutia, said she found this event helpful and was able to broaden her knowledge on some financial tips, but was mainly concerned on the scholarships offered. According to the MWSU website, the university offers students more than $2 million in merit scholarships each year. Scholarships range from $500-$2500 per academic year with the amount depending on everything from standardized test scores to the student’s academic ability. According to Mandi Peterman, assistant director of admissions,

PHOTO BY ARIANNA DAVIS | THE WICHITAN

Kathy Pennartz-Browning, director of financial aid, gives a presentation to students about different financial aid programs on Feb. 7. students need to be informed and educated by their high school guidance counselors in every aspect. Nevertheless, the students also have to reach out to those connections to be prepared ahead of time.

8 | Feb. 08, 2017 |

Couple’s galleries incorporate nature into pieces LANE RIGGS REPORTER

he opening reception held at the Wichita Falls Museum of Art on Feb. 3 at 6-8 p.m. featuring the works of Sherry Giryotas and Phillip Shore. The couple’s work focus on the natural world, as her paintings looked at observations of the natural world and his sculptures try to describe the relationship between man and nature. Giryotas’ gallery, Unraveling the Migrants, looks at her observations of the natural world based on her experience of living in different cultures. Each piece records her travels through the landscapes reimagined in her painting. While Giryotas’ pieces incorporate the colors around her, Shore incorporates into his pieces copper, wood, and bees or leaves. “It’s part of the overarching concept of my work. Trees have lives, too. I make sure everything I use in my sculptures have a relation to each other, so for example, a hand is equal to a wing,” Shore said. “The theme is open but everything stems from a central theme.” His pieces are both short and tall, and the usage of copper and wood help to further assimilate the sculptures with trees. “Walking through the gallery is like walking through a man-made forest,” Kevin Anderson, biology junior, said. “Everything is perfectly sculpted. It’s beautiful. There’s copper in everything, and it’s interesting that Shore tried to mesh metal and wood together.” Giryotas’ paintings, Anderson said, reminded him of the heavens parting. “Everything in the gallery caught my attention, her pieces are angelic,” he said.

PHOTO BY TIMOTHY JONES | THE WICHITAN

Sherry Giryotas, painter, and Phillip Shore, sculpturist, speaking at their exhibition on Feb. 3. Anderson also liked Shore’s gallery, A Soliloquy on Oneness, because it explores the relationship humans have to the natural world and how both are connected to each other. Juan Pram, graphic design freshman, liked both galleries as well. “I came here to see the artwork tonight because I was kind of curious. I’ve been to a few galleries but I think this one was more open, more roomy,” he said. “It was nice to get a chance to see the art, experience it like the artists hope we do.” Shore said that while he doesn’t expect someone to understand his sculptures, he does hope that museum-goers will at least reflect on their experiences.

“We’re one with a system, it’s very cyclical. We are all one, and I hope to show the impact that nature has on us, and how we can damage the environment,” he said. “My work isn’t preachy. But I am trying to quietly bring awareness to the environment. It’s fabulous when someone is made aware of their relationship to nature.” While Shore looks at the relationship between nature and man, Giryotas looks at the travels that each person goes on as they become aware of this relationship. “My work is informed and influenced by my observations of the natural world and having lived on a variety of continents amid different cultures,” she said. “The paintings are a celebration of life. I’m still migrating constantly, and through my paintings, I commemorate that. I put my own language onto the landscape.” Giryotas’ foundation for her work comes from everything around her, like the movement of water and the vines of plants. “Within my work I connect disparate elements, and, in the same vein, I use cast elements of the human form, hands and feet, atop vessels containing elements from nature to express the interconnected relationship of humans and the environment,” she said. “This work emerges from a personal exploration, an exploration seeking my place in this natural system.” Though the galleries were planned three years ago, only 50 people were in attendance. “I don’t think I would have come if my professor hadn’t encouraged it,” Pram said. “I don’t hear anything about the museum, they just don’t advertise that much.”

96% of employers name “Intercultural Skills” as being one of the two most important considerations when making hires (tied with “Ethics”)

A lot of business gets done on the golf course and in other social settings … you can’t rely on an interpreter there.

82% of alumni received a competitive edge from their foreign language abilities

Your employer wants to market a product in another country in a way that appeals to local tastes, values and attitudes of non-English speakers …

One-third of American companies do business overseas

Why not…

80% of the world’s purchasing power lies outside the U.S.

Would you be able to assist, or would that job go to someone else?

Add a double major in Spanish, a minor in French or “Spanish for the Professions” or German classes

Foreign Languages, Midwestern State University Bea Wood 116 jeffrey.oxford@mwsu.edu

1/3 of all corporations in the U.S. are either owned or based overseas More than 63 million Americans work for multinational companies

Credit is available, through proficiency exams, for language ability that you may already have.