Volume xLVIII | Issue 11 | PEPPERDINE-GRAPHIC.COM | JANUARY 17, 2019
Kaelin Mendez | Photo Editor
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STUDENTS AND STAFF TRY TO STAY DRY as storms continue through tonight
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH Canyon Closed| Sheriff’s deputies block the entrance to Malibu Canyon Road after rockslides send one person to the hospital. Extended rain has weakened canyon walls, making the roads more susceptible to falling rocks.
Housleys discuss gun violence, Alaina’s Voice
groups are going to work in conjunction [with Moms Demand Action] or even independently to do their own programs and events.”
Channa St einmetz S p e c i al Edi ti on Edi tor M akena Huey Co py ed it o r
The Borderline Bar and Grill shooting, which resulted in the deaths of 12 people, including Pepperdine freshman Alaina Housley, was one of 340 mass shootings in the United States in 2018. Mass shootings in the past year killed 374 people and injured another 1,345, according to the Gun Violence Archive. With the increase in mass shootings, organizations and individuals are discussing ways to end gun violence — solutions range from implementing stricter background checks to engaging in everyday acts of kindness. For the families affected and others in the Pepperdine community, Borderline initiated a call to action to respond to gun violence. Housley’s parents, Arik and Hannah, started the Alaina’s Voice foundation to honor their daughter and advocate for compassion. “[Kindness] is something that is very easy to do so quickly in a big group or a small group, in all different ways,” Hannah Housley said. “A conversation with that person could have changed things.” Along with the local community, the Borderline Shooting prompted major corporations such as Toms and the National Basketball League to recognize the unnerving phenomenon of mass shootings, taking
Student Action
Ashley Mowreader | News Assistant Voice of Strength | Alaina’s Voice is an organization created in memory of Alaina Housley, Pepperdine freshman and victim of the Borderline Shooting. action through public statements and donations. Policies There are other organizations working toward ending gun violence. Everytown for Gun Safety was started through a mother’s Facebook page after the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012. Now, the organization has over 5 million members across the country with chapters of Moms Demand Action as the driving force. Amy Phillips, the California state communications lead for Moms Demand Action, said the organization is not anti-gun, but instead fights to make guns safer through background checks and training. Members participate in lobbying. “Last year we were
the waves report
very involved in passing Bill AB 2103,” Phillips said. “It had to do with live fire training. Some counties required training, some counties didn’t. We helped lobby for that bill so that now throughout the entire state of California, you have to have a minimum of eight hours of training before you get a permit to carry a gun.” There are chapters of Moms Demand Action in every state, and members are not exclusively mothers. Members include mayors, students, police officers, teachers, survivors and gun owners, according to the website. Phillips highlighted that California is a Red Flag Law state, meaning that individuals have the right to report to local officials if they feel someone in possession of weapons may
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use them to harm themselves or others. “It’s a really powerful tool for both law enforcement and families to use,” Phillips said. “It’s important that everybody knows how it works so you can call law enforcement and say, ‘Hey, I’m concerned about this person.’” Students can team up with Everytown and Moms Demand Action to launch a Students Demand Action chapter on their campus, Phillips said. Within these chapters, students work to educate their peers on gun violence, advocate for elected officials to take action on passing legislation and use their talents to create a movement. “2019 is going to be a big year and a big legislative year,” Phillips said. “It will be interesting to see how student
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Although she had never met Alaina, sophomore Anemone Hansen felt compelled to write a letter to the Housley family in which she shared her reaction to the Borderline Shooting and presented a call to action for her peers. She said she was afraid the shooting would would be forgotten after the Woolsey Fire and that she could not allow Alaina’s death to be in vain. Although Hansen said she thinks stricter gun control laws are necessary, she does not think that is the final answer. Rather than focusing on a controversial topic, she said she chose to focus on something positive — kindness. “Remember that love is stronger than hate because hate can only destroy, but love builds beauty out of chaos,” Hansen wrote. “I know it is possible, but it’s possible only when we come together to see the worth and humanity of every individual.” Hansen said she believes everyone in the Pepperdine community is connected to one another, and the community can only grow stronger if they see one another on a deeper level. “God’s love ... is greater than we are and greater than we can imagine, but sometimes it
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126 spring admits join community A s h le y M o w r e a d e r ne ws assi stant For spring admits, it can be difficult transitioning to a new university in the middle of the school year, but this year’s wildfires, mass shooting and missed school days add additional obstacles to the existing challenges. The 126 spring admits of 2019 face an unusual situation of walking into a healing community and learning to make it feel like home. Between the Borderline Shooting in Thousand Oaks and the Woolsey Fire in early November, Pepperdine students experienced an unconventional first semester. Some students chose to leave Pepperdine after fall semester, but many spring admits chose to attend nevertheless. 126 out of the 150 admitted spring students came to campus for the spring 2019 semester, Housing Director Robin Gore said. “I never considered not coming,” spring admit Simone Decker said. “After seeing how the Pepperdine community responded with messages of unity and strength, these tragedies were a beautiful reminder of why I wanted to come to Pepp: the community.” The admits are a mix of firstyear and transfer students admitted through early spring admission and spring admission, Director of Admissions Falone Serna said. Many of these students, like freshman Grant Richardson, said they had known they were coming to Pepperdine for months, which made it difficult to watch the tragedies of the past semester unfold. “Throughout this entire time I was like, ‘I should be up at Pepperdine, I should be with them,’” Richardson said. “I just felt so awful being so distant from everyone, I just wanted to be there at least for emotional support. I just felt so helpless.” Richardson first heard of the shooting from social media after friends on Facebook marked themselves safe from the shooting, then from a Pepperdine student, freshman Alicia Yu, on Instagram. Decker is from Palmdale, CA, and said she heard the news of the shooting and fire from her immediate family soon after each happened. “I was horrified, surprised and devastated for Pepperdine,” Decker said. “I couldn’t believe that the news I was hearing was real life. Every part of me wanted to believe that it was some terrible misunderstanding.” Sophomore Austin Cadman said he heard the news of both the shooting and the fire from his friends who were at Pepperdine, but these events did not change his decision to come to transfer for spring semester. “It’s kind of funny though because it didn’t impact me coming here,” Cadman said. “I still wanted to go. I wasn’t going to let it change my mind. I’m not going to be scared of this kind of stuff. It’s unfortunate and it sucks but … I kind of felt like everyone else. I felt like a part of the community, even though I wasn’t here at all.” Spring admits came to campus Jan. 2 for New Student Orientation and said they are still
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P E P P E R DINE GR A P HIC M E DIA | N E W S | J A N U A RY 1 7 , 20 1 9
Labels Should Not Define People
THE DPS REPORTS Check out pepperdine.edu/publicsafety for the DPS Reports every week
Kiley distelrath c o py e di t o r A label: a description of contents attached to an item that tries to identify it, according to Merriam Webster. These labels are present on food items, where calories, fats, sugars, et cetera, of that food are found. These labels describe the good in simple terms and are definitive, usually not changing with time. Why then is society stuck in a time of labeling people, as though they are nothing more than an food item found on a grocery shelf? Labels can be useful in the sense that they help people discover their characteristics. In a world with billions of people, it is a life goal for each to individualize themselves and to understand who they are. However, when these characteristics, which are turned into labels and become stereotypes, begin to completely define who one is as a person, they become destructive to one’s sense of self. No one is ever one word. Each individual develops, grows and changes with time. I let one word define me my whole high school career: introvert. I thought by knowing who I was as a person, an introvert, I could understand my flaws and inabilities better. Labeling myself as one, I finally understood why I felt socially awkward in social environments and why I feared public speaking. I let this label control me, distancing myself from doing things that were “un-introvert-like,” like leading a group at school or meeting new people. However, as I began life at Pepperdine, I realized I had been looking at my label in the wrong way. Instead of understanding myself by knowing that I was an introvert, I let this characteristic limit me. I deprived myself of an understanding for my unique qualities and took this label for granted, assuming it was all I’d ever be. Everyone is more than what they perceive their labels to be. Sure, labels can be the start to grasping who one is, but never are they the full description of who someone is or will become. Each person should find their labels and then forget about them because one word will never adequately define their uniqueness.
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1/4/19 11:04 a.m. Crimes: Traffic-Related Hit and Run, Non-Injury Accident Location: Rho Parking Lot
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1/8/19 9:16 p.m. Crimes: Traffic-Related Hit and Run, Non-Injury Accident Location: Public Safety Office
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1/9/19 9:30 a.m. Crimes: Larceny/Theft Petty Theft - Misc. Location: Tyler Campus Center
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1/10/19 10:31 p.m. Crimes: Alcohol-Related/ Non-Criminal - Possession of Alcohol on Campus Location: Banowsky Hall
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1/13/19 3:57 p.m. Crimes: Alcohol-Related/ Non-Criminal - Possession of Alcohol on Campus Location: Lovernich Apartments
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UPCOMING EVENTS THIS SEMESTER What: re e l s tor ies when: 2/ 1 Wher e: e lk in s auditor ium
Wh at: women’s basketball vs. byu Wh e N: 2/2 Wh e re : Fir estone fieldhouse
What: new music rec i tal Whe N : 2/3 Whe re : r aitt r eci tal hal l
W hat: men’s vol l ey b al l vs. by u W he N: 2 / 6 W he r e : f i res t one f i el dhou s e
W hat: danc e i n f l i g ht W he N: 2 / 7 W he r e : s mot hers t heat re
c onvo c re dit and other e ve n ts this we e k FRI.
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What: c e le br ation chapel When: 9 a .m. and 10 a.m. Wher e: a m ph i theater
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N o Sc hool! Mar tin Luther King jr . Day
What: Pe ppe r dine impr ov tro upe When: 8 p.m . Wher e: e lk in s auditor ium
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Wh at: ger man chap el Wh e n: 10 a.m. Wh e re : stauffer c hap el Wh at: MLK Chapel Wh e n: 6 p.m. Wh e re : stauffer c hap el Wh at: The Well Wh e n: 7:30 p.m. Wh e re : LINDHUR ST T HEAT RE
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W hat: wednes day c hap el W he n: 1 0 a. m. W he r e : f i res t one f i el dhou s e
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W hat: T he Wel l W he n: 7 : 3 0 p. m. W he r e : L I NDHU RS T T HEAT RE
W hat: c hi nes e c hap el W he n: 1 1 : 05 a. m. W he r e : c c b 3 4 0 W hat: f ri ends i n c hri s t, ri val s i n p ol i t i c s W he n: 3 p. m. W he r e : s u rf b oard room
KILEY.DISTELRATH@PEPPERDINE.EDU
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J A NUA RY 1 7 , 2 0 1 9 | N E W S | P E P P E R DINE G RA P H I C ME D I A
Pres Candidates Hold Town Halls
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Ju d it h - Daly B r it er -Knabe S taf f W r i ter Pepperdine is wrapping up town halls and forums with the five presidential candidates. The Presidential Search Committee released the names of the five finalists for presidential candidacy in an email to the Pepperdine community Jan. 10. The last town hall is Friday. The final candidates are: Rick Marrs, Pepperdine provost and chief academic officer; Gregg Sterling, dean of Yale Divinity School; Nancy Jordan, Louisiana State University-Shreveport provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs; Jim Gash, Pepperdine School of Law associate dean for strategic planning and external relations; and Tim Perrin, president and chief executive officer of Lubbock Christian University. The Presidential Search
Rick Marrs
Committee, alongside the management consulting firm, Korn Ferry, have searched nationwide for several months to narrow the candidate pool down to these five. The search began in March of 2017 after President Andrew K. Benton announced he would be stepping down at the end of the 20182019 school year. “I think it’s an exceptionally strong pool,” Marnie Mitze, vice president and chief of staff for the Benton administration, said. Mitze also serves as
Gregg Sterling
the administrative liaison to the Presidential Search Committee. Student opinions of the finalists varied from indifference to excitement. Others expressed disappointment in the homogeneity of the pool, given that all five are White and four of the five are men. “I would love a woman president but I don’t know if Pepperdine is ready for that,” junior Dalaney Keeler said. In regard to the demographics of the pool, a display at the Freedom Wall
Nancy Jordan
protests the lack of ethnic and gender diversity. The installation alleges that Pepperdine does not fairly represent the university’s multiethnic community given that every president has been a white man. “I would like more options,” junior Megan Golden said. “Where the brown boys at?” Others simply have no preference. “I don’t care as long as it’s not Trump,” freshman Fiona Quah said. “Is Bernie running?” Two of the candidates,
Jim Gash
Marrs and Gash, came from inside the Pepperdine community, but Mitze said that does not necessarily give them an advantage. Perrin is a former faculty member at the Pepperdine School of Law and Sterling is a Pepperdine alumnus. “In many ways it’s harder to come from the inside than the outside because everybody knows you really well,” Mitze said. “They know your strengths and your [weaknesses].” This is the first release of possible candidates.
Tim Perrin
The names of eliminated candidates are unknown. Current University President Benton had no control in the process, Mitze said. “There’s so many moving parts to a decision like this,” Mitze said. The final forum will take place Friday this week for students to ask the candidates questions, Mitze said. The forum will be in the Surfboard Room starting at 5 p.m. A poll is also available to students to voice their thoughts. J U DI T H . B R I ST E R -K N AB E @PE PPE R DI N E . E DU
GUN: Conversation continues someone else wants to receive it, in a way that would grow them.”
FR OM A 1 comes to us when we need it,” Hansen said. “As horrible as it is, I think it is also a chance for us to come together in a visible way to counter that visible show of hate.” In her letter, Hansen wrote five action steps: welcome those who are lonely, have a meal and conversation with someone, listen to those who disagree, love those who are different and reach out for help. Hansen encourages students who feel called to action to reach out to the people around them, even if it is difficult. Saying hello to people walking by or asking people to repeat their names allows individuals to be intentional and shows that they care. Similarly, junior Currents editor and Borderline survivor Allison Lee recently told the Graphic that she thinks the solution to violence can be found in loving people in the way they wish to receive it. “If you look at the five love languages, there are different ways to give and receive love,” Lee said. “We need to be able to give love in the way
Continuing the Dialogue Arik and Hannah Housley said they find hope in the opportunity for respectful conversation. The Housleys have said that the phrase “gun control” immediately shuts out half of the country from participating in the conversation. For them, the issue lies deeper than automatic weapons; the issue is hatred. “There are 12 families that lost loved ones that night,” Arik Housley said. “We look at it and we may say it’s not about gun control because I don’t need a gun to go kill people … It’s not about guns. It’s about hate, and it’s about just being disrespectful and being in a bad place.” Not everyone feels comfortable being in front of a camera, contacting a politician or creating a club, the Housleys said. But everyone can put their phone down to smile at a passerby, ask someone how they are doing or use their talents to express themselves. Even if kindness does not prevent a mass shooting, it will be worth it provided that it helps someone who is
struggling, they added. Alaina’s Voice, which is centered around the motto “voice of song, voice of strength, voice of spirit, voice of change,” primarily aims to promote kindness, Arik Housley said. The nonprofit has done so by selling “Be Kind” buttons and bracelets on campuses and encouraging mutual respect. “[Alaina] was fine with being who she was and that’s what we loved about her,” Arik Housley said. “We need to start with people being okay with who they are first and start to respect themselves before we can start to respect each other.” As for political action, the foundation seeks to stop the media from making shooters celebrities. The public does not need to know the shooter’s name or photo in order to understand the story, Arik Housley said. The Housleys added that they plan to advocate for mental health reform. Their plan included pushing the government to do background checks for mental illness before accepting military personnel and possibly providing peer support services in high schools. Ashley Trim, the execu-
tive director of Pepperdine’s Davenport Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership, agreed that the conversation around mental health must continue. Society needs be aware of those who may need support, she said. “There is a cultural opportunity to make it so that there is not a stigma to reaching out for help and reaching out early,” Trim said. Trim also said she believes in order to end gun violence, one must focus on the source of the problem. This requires an effective discussion on controversial topics at a local level where each individual has the time and energy to address the multifaceted nature of the problem, she said. “We need to be looking beyond just ‘Let’s take away the tool’ and actually looking at the cause,” Trim said. “I think hate is part of the cause. I think loneliness is part of the cause.” To foster civil dialogue about mass shootings, Trim advised others to ask people they disagree with questions about how they came to different conclusions. Individuals should explain their argument rather than assuming others will think the same
way. Trim also suggested avoiding generalizations and valuing the space in which the conversation occurs. Trim acknowledged that this dialogue may be difficult when the topic affects one as intimately as the Borderline Shooting affected Pepperdine’s community. “It makes something worth digging through,” she said. “But you have to have that willingness to personally invest.” M AK ENA.HUEY@PEPPER DINE.EDU C HANNA.STEINM ETZ@PEPPER DINE.EDU
Courtesy of Alaina's Voice
In Remembrance | A black ribbon with Alaina’s name on it is the symbol of both the Alaina’s Voice organization and Alaina herself. The Housley family created the symbol with the Napa Valley Football Club.
SPRING: Admits share experiences F R OM A 1
learning how to navigate Pepperdine. “The biggest challenge for me so far at Pepp was figuring out how to navigate the dining hall,” Decker said. “I didn’t expect to have so many options or to be constrained by certain hours for eating meals. I’ve been able to get the hang of things relatively quickly, but I think it’ll take some time before it feels natural.” Housing for spring admits is also a challenge due to the large
size of the freshman class, Gore said. Of the spring admits, 50 live in traditional first year housing and the rest live in upperclassmen housing like Towers, Seaside and even Drescher, Gore said. While many upperclassmen lost housing after the Woolsey fire, only 18 of the displaced students still require housing from Pepperdine, meaning there was little to no effect on housing for the spring admits, Gore said. Richardson lives in Towers and said it’s been interesting living with a
wide variety of students from freshmen to seniors. Cadman lives in Eden and said it was an easy adjustment moving in with fellow first years. While all three spring admits said they never considered not coming to Pepperdine, Richardson said he was a little worried he would be unable to empathize. “Being so removed from the whole entire situation, [I was worried] a lot of my freshman classmates have already established these connections and
now that they’ve gone through so much, I don’t have anything to relate to that,” Richardson said. “I didn’t experience these things, I don’t know what you’re going through. I can be here and try to help, but I didn’t really experience it.” When faculty and students mention the events of last semester, Cadman said he feels as though he can understand. “It’s easy enough to understand that shootings are bad and fires are bad, [so] I can under-
stand how awful it was,” Cadman said. “But at the same time, I’ll never truly understand what it’s like when everything around you is on fire and stuff like that.” But all three students said they have found students to be welcoming and open. “I’ve been really surprised with how open and friendly people have been,” Richardson said. “I’ve had really no problem connecting with people. I’ve been walking around campus and people will be like, ‘Hi Grant!’ It’s great here.”
Decker said she’s enjoyed the campus, weather and active culture but especially the people at Pepperdine. “It has been absolutely incredible to be on campus,” Decker said. “The people here are unlike any other group I’ve ever seen. They smile for no reason, always offer to help and face everything with patience. At first I felt like I was in some sort of movie or dream, but then I realized that Pepp is just that cool!” ASHL EY.M OW R EADER @PEPPER DINE.EDU
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PERSPECTIVES WHAT
STAFF LIST
PGM
M anag i ng Ed i to r m a ry c ate l o n g So c i al M ed i a M anag er m a d i so n n i ch o l s P i x el Ed i to r ella gonzalez o nl i ne p r o d u c er o m a r m u r ph y G New s p r o d u c er a r ace l i c r e sce n c i o c o py c hi ef rya n h a r d i n g s p ec i al ed i ti o n ed i to r ch a n n a ste i n m e tz as si g nm ent ed i to r about the presidential candidates k ayi u w o n g New s Ed i to r Madeleine Carr Ass i stant New s Ed i to r r o wa n to k e New s As si s tant a sh l e y m o w r e a d e r S p o r ts Ed i to r sa m fi n n e ga n P er s p ec ti v es Ed i to r part of the Pepperdine ga r e n ko soya n community, now is the P er sp ec ti v es ass i stant time to do that in a way a r e e ya ku n awa r a d i sa i that supplements the L i fe & Ar ts Ed i to r process at hand. This k at n a n ce applies to future unas si s tant L i fe & ar ts dertakings such as the ed i to r selection of the new International Programs julia donlon dean and other signifl i fe & ar ts seni o r icant positions within r ep o r ter the Pepperdine commuc a r o l i n e e d wa r d s nity. L i fe & Ar ts Ass i stants Students should be e m i l i e sch u tt actively involved as pi pe r w r i g h t much as possible, using P ho to Ed i to r their voice however Kaelin mendez they can to contribute as si s tant p ho to to decisions such as that ed i to r of the next president. m i l a n l o i ac o n o This upset over candidates’ diversity shows Ar t Ed i to r the passion this campus c a i tl i n r oa r k holds — now let’s put it ass i stant ar t ed i to r to use to leave a mark on a l ly a r m str o n g the university. C o py ed i to r s For students who makena huey want to know more ga b r i e l l e m ath ys about the candidates’ k i l e y d i ste l r ath educational and profesadv er ti s i ng d i r ec to r sional background, each b e n h u ya r d candidate’s curriculum Adv er ti s i ng m anag er vitae is available on Pepca r o l i n e h e r r o n perdine’s Presidential Search page. Students D i r ec to r o f P ep p er d i ne are also encouraged to G r ap hi c M ed i a fill out a survey on the E l i z a b e th Sm i th candidates by Friday, As si s tant D i r ec to r O f Jan. 25. P ep p er d i ne G r ap hi c M ed i a Co u r te n ay Sta l l i n g s
STAFF
⇧ THINKS
Ally Armstrong | Assistant Art Editor
STAFF EDITORIAL be part of the presidential process This past week, the Pepperdine Presidential Search Committee announced the five finalists for the position. Within 24 hours, the Freedom Wall exhibited a display regarding the lack of racial and gender diversity within the finalist pool. Out of the five individuals, all of them are White and only one of them, Nancy Jordan, is a woman. The other candidates include both internal candidates — Rick Marrs, provost and chief academic officer, and Jim Gash, associate dean for strategic planning and external relations for Pepperdine Law – and external candidates — Greg Sterling and Tim Perrin. As a part of the decision process, the committee invited students to come to town hall sessions with the individual candidates, as well as participate in the student forum. This procedure offers students a unique opportunity to be active members in the election of Pepperdine’s next president. Andrew K. Benton, Pepperdine’s
longest-standing president, has been leading the university for 19 years. This next president could be the university’s leader for the next 20 years. For those who disapprove of the candidate pool, rather than sit and fume over the presidential process, be active in the opportunities provided to students. The process isn’t completely democratic, but that is not an excuse for being apathetic. Instead of becoming complacent, work toward positive change with what is offered. Students have the responsibility of helping select the president that will oversee the university for future Waves. This man or woman will make decisions that will either increase or decrease the value of Pepperdine degrees, affecting current students long after their remaining years in Malibu. It is important to remember the president’s impact on the university’s future, even for those seniors who will not be around for the new president’s term.
While it is apparent that some community members are upset with the lack of diversity among the candidates, they still have the chance to voice their opinions on the candidates that the committee has provided. The public cannot know the full list of applicants for the presidential position, but students can still put in research and their opinion into the next step of the process. Students should share with the five finalists what students want for the future of the university and take note of the candidates’ responses. This is the time when students have the opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences and form perspectives based on the candidates’ ideas and actions, rather than strictly their appearance. Remember the leadership traits or other qualities that are valuable and should be aspects of Pepperdine’s next president. After the events of this past November, it is also important to keep in mind who will
represent the university during moments of national scrutiny and disaster — someone who can provide both comfort and guidance when necessary. While the next president may not physically represent diversity, it is still within the students’ power to ensure he or she advocates for representation of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations and faiths. As Benton has his quirks, such as playing electric guitar in his band and carrying a copy of the Constitution at all times, each candidate will offer qualities that students can relate to or find endearing. The new president will also engage in significant, campus-wide decisions. Benton has overseen decisions that students today see as fundamental parts of the university such as contributions to new international programs, fundraising efforts and the construction of Drescher campus. While voicing one’s opinion has, is and will always be an integral
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THE 'BU YORKER
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CONTACT US
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SGA passed a resolution to fund a portion of Late Night Breakfast put on by Student Affairs scheduled for Sunday, April 23 from 9:15 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Waves Cafe.
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JAN UA RY 1 7 , 2 0 1 9 | PE RS PE C TIVE S | P E P P E R D I N E G RA P H I C ME D I A
Stay informed on the shutdown C a r o l i n e A r ch er s ta f f Wri t e r The US government has been shut down since Dec. 22, 2018, making it the longest shutdown in United States’ history. Pepperdine students abroad in Washington, D.C. will find the National Mall eerily quiet as government employees wait for the shutdown to be lift. However, the government shutdown has affected more than just the D.C. program at Pepperdine. From raising questions about student loans to altering MLK weekend plans, this shutdown hits closer to home than one might think. The state of the government is relevant and impactful to all members of the university. Because of this, students should intentionally inform themselves about what is currently happening in Washington, D.C. At a fundamental level, knowledge elevates discourse and promotes truth. Students have a responsibility to rectify misconceptions, or else they may find themselves perpetuating them. People who lack literacy in current events become susceptible to exploitation and misinformation, according to Freddy Cordoza’s article “Why You Should Be Informed,” published Nov. 13, 2013 by Biola University. Therefore, in order to protect themselves — and even the Pepperdine community as a whole — from ignorance,
Ta h t e ’a n a N e l s o n S ta f f W r i t e r
Caitlin Roark | Art Editor students need to dig into various news sources and learn as much as they can. Some Pepperdine students will have specific anxieties as a result of the government shutdown. Students who rely on federal student loans should know that “despite the partial government shutdown, it should be business as usual for students relying on federal student loans to afford college,” according to Jillian Berman’s “Yes, you still need to pay your student loans during the shutdown,” published Jan. 9 by Market Watch. However, Berman also indicates that some prospective students who are applying for federal financial aid might encounter issues. The process of income verification, required for about 30 percent of FAFSA applicants, has become bottlenecked in the wake of the shutdown.
The government shutdown has also had drastic effects on the National Park Service. With Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaching, Pepperdine students might be considering trips to destinations such as Yosemite or Joshua Tree over the long weekend. These students should be aware, however, that their visit will probably be different from what they are envisioning. Without park employees maintaining the area, damage is being wrought on national parks across the country, whether intentionally or not. For instance, in Joshua Tree, felled trees and vandalism are widespread. Locals “have struggled to deal with a variety of issues ranging from rampant littering and overflowing public restrooms to the vandalism of habitats,” according to Allyson Chiu’s ‘A travesty to this nation’: People are de-
stroying Joshua trees in Joshua Tree National Park,” published Jan. 11 by The Washington Post. It is also important to take a look at the big picture when analyzing this predicament. The shutdown is symptomatic of the partisan state of our nation as a whole. These divides are what students will eventually inherit as they step into new responsibilities, with some of them even occupying a spot in the government itself. By taking the time to think critically and acquire knowledge now, students will be better equipped to navigate these future roles. Socrates championed the practice of knowing oneself. By learning about the government shutdown, students will come closer to having this self-awareness. C AR OL INE.AR C HER @PEPPER DINE.EDU
Confront climate change denial c am ry n g o r do n staf f wr it er
The world is vast and beautiful. Looking out at the ocean from Pepperdine’s Malibu campus is a view so beautiful it doesn’t seem real. Looking out on the views that Pepperdine’s abroad programs offer allows students to connect closely with God’s Creation. Whether it is standing atop a mountain in South America or skiing in the Swiss Alps, Pepperdine makes it a priority to cultivate and educate students on the world’s environment. In the fall of 2018, President Donald Trump’s administration published its climate report. This National Climate Assessment is the government’s fourth comprehensive publication on the impacts of climate change in the United States and around the globe. The report, which is a congressionally mandated document, details the increase in climate-fueled disasters. Coming just weeks after two major fires ripped through California,
Manage anger by meditating
the National Climate Assessment detailed the severity of climate change, and the effect it will have on the planet in the coming years. The severity of climate change is at an all-time high. With fire season more destructive and longer than ever and areas of the world literally running out of water, there isn’t much time before not doing anything becomes increasingly deadly. If there is little activity in the effort to reverse the effects of climate change, there will be massive repercussions. Everything from ocean temperatures, sea levels and ecosystems of all variations are at risk. The National Climate Assessment predicts droughts intensifying, flooding from melting ice caps, increased wildfire frequency, changes in diseases and a decrease in forestry to support economic activity. However, the effects of climate change aren’t just environmental. If climate change is left untouched, if there is failure to act, it will take an economic toll, costing the government billions in productivity, damages and death. Although multiple federal departments, overseen by the U.S. Global Change Research
Ally Armstrong | Assistant Art Editor Program, drew definitive conclusions to the fate of our planet, President Trump denied the science and reality of climate change. “I don’t believe it,” were President Trump’s words when asked about the published climate report. However, here at Pepperdine University the efforts to combat these potential effects and help prolong the life of precious lands and resources are well underway. In an effort to preserve water, the campus has been recycling water for irrigation since 1972, while recently installing low flow shower heads
which use 50 percent less water. With programs in place to allow students the opportunity to volunteer on service days, join the Green Team and plant gardens, the Pepperdine community is dedicated to being a wave of change. As Pepperdine students, it is so important to be aware of the impact that is climate change. It is so important to realize that climate change is not going to go away without the participation of communities and a lot of determination. In order to prove to the government, who is failing the American
people, that its citizens matter, there needs to be activism and want from within. As citizens of this world, the impact of climate change should be terrifying. Climate change is real. It is an issue that is set to impact generations alive today and those who have yet to come. So many people in the world see this issue and don’t act, hoping that someone else’s efforts will make up for it. Now is the time to act; it could save a life.
C AM RYN.GOR DON@PEPPER DINE.EDU
On a rainy Malibu night, a student walked into Seaside residence to dry a load of clothes. To the her surprise their clean clothes were sitting on top of the dirty washing machine. At that moment, a rush of anger filled her body, however the student was able to console herself by taking a step back and realizing that it wasn’t as serious as it seemed. Anger is a human emotion that can be effective or ineffective depending on how it is managed. In the case of the laundry sabotage, the student was able to effectively translate anger into patience by not repeating what was done to her, which resulted in a healthier mental state. Not properly managing one’s anger can result in a lack of mental stillness. “Simple relaxation tools, such as deep breathing and relaxing imagery, can help calm down angry feelings,” according to the American Psychological Association in the article “Controlling Anger Before it Controls You,” published in 2018. It’s important to realize when one is experiencing the emotion of anger and manage it effectively. Anger “[i]s a subconscious or conscious reaction of frustration from the fact that they, indeed, do not have much of an impact on the events deemed ‘important’ by the news,” according to Daniel Lattier in the article “Why People Today Get so Angry About Politics,” published April 2017 in Intellectual Takeout. Not feeling as though one’s perspective is important can make it difficult to manage the underlying emotion of anger. It is especially important to channel one’s anger in a productive way. “The meditative mind has learned to not place ‘good’ or ‘bad’ labels on thoughts, but simply to observe and witness them from a distance. In turn, ‘thought resistance’ goes to the wayside, disabling the spiral of emotions which so often leads to angry outbursts,” according to the EOC Institute in the article titled “The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Anger.” Giving oneself time to think, and meditating will be extremely beneficial to the mental state of students. Anger is a natural emotion which students have the ability to maintain in a positive way. Students should consider moments of anger as learning experiences and meditate to inflict a more favorable outcome for the next situation. TAHTEANA.NEL SON@PEPPER DINE.EDU
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P E P P E R DINE GR A P HIC M E DIA | N E W S | J A N U A RY 1 7 , 20 1 9
Pepp libraries partner with Grammy Museum C hanna St einmetz S p e c i al Edi ti ons Editor Pepperdine University commemorated its partnership as an official University Affiliate with the Grammy Museum through a plaque commemoration at the university’s Malibu campus on Tuesday, Jan. 8 in the Surfboard Room. Dean of Libraries Mark Roosa accepted the Grammy Museum Affiliate plaque presented by the museum’s director of community engagement, Kaitlyn Nader. Pepperdine joined universities such as Yale, Berklee College of Music and others in the museum’s affiliates program. Nadar said the museum was excited to have received an application from Pepperdine. “The museum has been a fan of Pepperdine for a long time,” Nader said. “When we got a letter from the university asking about our affiliates program, the partnership made so much sense. We joined forces to see what we could do together, and it was an organic relationship from the start.” The partnership will offer a number of educational opportunities, such as having the museum’s network of approved historians and professionals as guest speakers on campus. Roosa said Pepperdine is eager to utilize the curriculum resources on
music that the Grammy Museum is able to provide. “One of the museum’s main goals is to get music into the schools and into the educational space,” Roosa said. “We are super supportive of that and [it’s] something we would like to see more of.”
Nader added that this photography exhibition will hopefully be the start to a long exhibition-level of collaboration. The partnership also provides students with discounted rates for tickets to the Grammy Museum, along with work opportunities such as internships with the museum and being a part of their projects and programming. With the 61st Annual Grammy Awards less than a month away, Nader said there will be upcoming programming at the museum that Pepperdine students are inWe see this as vited to attend. an opportunity Senior Kelly Terjesen to spread our said she was glad Pepperdine was reaching out wings and to to the entertainment inengage with Courtesydustry and forming opof Pepperdine University portunities for students. more diverse “I’m excited about the populators partnership,” Terjesen outside of our said. “I think Pepperdine needs to take more adcampus. vantage of Los Angeles because we are literally Mark Roosa, in the heart of the entertainment industry.” Dean of Libraries The Grammy Museum is located in LA Live As for exhibitions to — the same entertainbe held in Payson Li- ment complex as the brary, the Grammy Mu- Staples Center, where seum is working with Pepperdine and parter Pepperdine Libraries to Anschutz Entertainment host a photography exhi- Group (AEG) unveiled bition in the fall of 2019. their new classroom in “We think it will be a October 2018. The partbehind the scenes pho- nership with the muto exhibition of Gram- seum’s academic focus my [Awards] recipients,” on music complements Roosa said. “So stay Pepperdine’s recent parttuned for that.” nership with AEG, which
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offers sports and entertainment-focused education to students. Both Nadar and Roosa said, although this partnership is just beginning, they are thrilled to be a part of it and watch
it grow. “One of our goals at Pepperdine is to strengthen our community ties,” Roosa said. “We see this as an opportunity to spread our wings and to engage with more
diverse populations outside of our campus, to connect with the downtown Los Angeles community and to connect with a global brand like the Grammys.” C HANNA.STEINM ETZ@PEPPER DINE.EDU
Grammy Gift | Nadar presents Roosa with the Grammy Museum Affiliate plaque. The plaque signifies the new relationship between the Grammy Museum and Pepperdine.
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LIFE & ARTS
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Photos by Kaelin Mendez Picture Perfect | Richard Diebenkorn’s landmark modern paintings are on display at the Weisman. Diebenkorn’s growth of artistic style through the years is presented in approximately 75 pieces at the “Beginnings 1942-1955” exhibit.
Weisman displays artist’s landmark paintings piper wright Li f e and ar t s assista n t The Weisman Museum’s new exhibition, “Richard Diebenkorn: B eginnings, 1942–1955” showcases ar twork from the ex tensive career of one of America’s most impor tant modern ar tists. The exhibit includes approximately 75 pieces and w ill be on display at the Weisman from Jan. 12 to March 31. Museum Director Michael Zaki an commented on the life of Diebenkorn and the pieces displayed in the exhibit. “Richard Diebenkorn is considered one of California’s and America’s most impor tant modern ar tists,” Zakian said. “He had a very interesting career because he was an ar t student in the ‘40s. He was committed to modern ar t because that was the most cut ting edge style at that time.” Zakian said Diebenkorn was a pioneer of abstract painting in bo th California and the United States at large. The exhibit features never-before- published work from his college and military years, dis play ing Diebenkorn’s grow th in the ar tistic style know n as Abstract Ex pressionism. It ex pands on his evolution from early “representational landscape, to semi-abstract Cubist and Surrealist-inspired work, to his mature Abstract Ex pressionist paintings,” as ex plained on the exhibit website.
Diebenkorn uses strong lines, shapes and colors, leav ing the interpretation up to his v iewers. Zakian described the ar tist ’s ab stract ex pressionist style as one of improv isation and freedom. “ The best way to think about this style is that it is a counterpar t in painting to jazz, because jazz developed around the same time: the ‘30s, ‘40s, ‘50s,” Zakian said. “ The whole idea was to focus on the creative freedom of the ar tist. You’re no t copying what you see; you’re making something fresh, beginning w ith no thing. And so the challenge is to create these shapes, colors, lines, that are v isually engaging.” Z akian said Diebenkorn had a small connection to Pepperdine in the early ‘70s. As he was teach ing at UCL A, he would v isit Pepperdine “every so often,” say ing “ he was friends w ith some of the ar t faculty.” This collection is unusual for Pepperdine because the Weisman does no t ty pically show primarily abstract exhibitions like this one, Zakian said. “It might be a little challenging because people are more comfor table looking at images they can recognize,” Zakian said. “And there are some, but essentially he was an abstract ar tist for most of his career. The way to approach abstract ar t is basically to use your emo tions. Let the works, let the shapes and composition speak to you.” P I P E R.W RI G H T @P E P P E RD I N E . E D U
Practice Makes Perfect | This photo on display shows Diebenkorn honing in on his craft while practicing his painting. Many of his paintings depict abstract scenes from nature and his surroundings.
O n D i s p l a y | Di e be nk o r n’ s l at e r p iec es h ang on d isp lay at th e u p p er f lo o r o f t he W ei s m a n Mu s eu m . T he a r t i s t ’s m o der n t e c hn iq ue a n d use o f A bst r act Expressionism is c learly d isp layed th rou gh hi s m o r e r ec en t wo r ks p i c t u r ed a bo ve.
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PEPP E R DIN E GR A P H IC M E DIA | L IFE A N D A RTS | J A N U A RY 1 7 , 20 1 9
Photos by Julia Donlon
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In Character | Isabel Klein, right, and Prof. Cathy Thomas-Grant, center, on the stage of Pepperdine theater production, “Well” as their characters Lisa Kron and Ann Kron. Crew members practice for their upcoming opening night Tuesday, Jan. 22 in the Lindhurst Theatre.
Pepperdine Theatre Department presents ‘Well’ Jul ia donlon a s si stant li f e an d a rts e d itor Editor’s Note: Julia Donlon, the writer of the article, is a crew member of the “Well” production. Pepperdine’s Theatre Department brings Lisa Kron’s play “Well” to life in the Lindhurst Theatre, opening Tuesday, Jan. 22 and running until Jan. 26. Bradley Griffin, the divisional dean of Fine Arts, is directing “Well,” which combines the genres of solo performance and experimental theatre with the timeless story of mothers and daughters. Senior Isabel Klein, last seen on Pepperdine’s stage in “Medea,” plays the lead Lisa Kron, a woman who takes the audience through a theatrical exploration
based on her life of universal issues that touches on topics including illness and wellness. “I truly think that when people see this show, they will be able to see themselves in it,” Klein said. “This play reflects a very truthful mother-daughter relationship. All paternal relationships are complicated — that is just a fact. Those relationships are filled with fighting, growing, joy, pain and love. I think this play displays each part of this complicated relationship. There is also something very healing in knowing that you are not alone.” Klein was able to talk to the playwright, Lisa Kron, who signed a copy of “Well” for Klein, writing “Good luck playing me!” and gave her advice on playing this role.
“I have continually gone back to those tips, and they have grounded me throughout the process,” Klein said. Professor of Theatre Cathy Thomas Grant stars beside Klein, portraying her mother Ann Kron. Pepperdine’s “Well” is an almost fully student-designed show with a talented ensemble including seniors Christine Galyean and Dylan Forehand and sophomores George Preston and Leyla Dillig. “Many of our shows are primarily faculty-designed, but I find that there is an added charm in having an almost entirely student-designed show, and I’m really excited for people to come see what we have created,” junior Costume Designer Bailey Soude-
lier said. “There are a lot of challenges and obstacles involved with being a student designer, but that also just goes to show how talented the design majors we have are, and how dedicated we are to making a cohesive work that tells an important story.” Tickets are $10 for students and $15 at regular price and can be purchased at the Smothers Theatre Box Office or by visiting arts.pepperdine.edu. Join the actors and director for a talkback after the Wednesday night performance. For more information on upcoming theatre performances, follow their social media at @ pepptheatre or visit arts.pepperdine.edu. JUL IA.DONL ON@PEPPER DINE.EDU
...I find that there is an added charm in having an almost entirely student-designed show, and I'm really excited for people to come see what we have created.
Bailey soudelier junior costume designer
Photos by Anna Milton Falling Leaves | The seasons are on full display in Nashville, Tennessee, this time of year. Vanderbilt University’s campus is a scenic tourist destination.
Plan your next getaway: Nashville travel guide anna milton s taf f write r
Visiting Nashville, Tennessee offers something new with each visit. However, visiting in the winter feels especially enchanting. The sun gives enough warmth to comfortably walk the streets in the crisp air with a hot chocolate in hand while admiring the city lights. Tennessee is one of the top 10 states for student enrollment, according to a 2018 admissions report. The city is becoming an increasingly popular destination for graduating seniors due to its lively culture and exciting opportunities. Nashville is a city where tourists are made to feel like locals. The warm and hospitable vibe of the city makes it instantly feel like home. Despite its rapid growth, Nashville maintains its small-town charm. There are a few places that have become go-to spots on every trip to Music City. A walk through the Vanderbilt University campus, seeing sights and friends, is a Nashville visit staple. Let’s talk food. Food in Nash-
ville takes on an entirely new level of flavor. Start the day off with a latte and breakfast at Frothy Monkey. This is a favorite spot among many Nashville natives. Another breakfast goto is Fido in Hillsboro Village, a notable Taylor Swift favorite. For an afternoon sweet treat, stop by Baked on 8th for decadent baked goods. The banana bread is unforgettable. For dinner, 5th & Taylor in German Town is a hearty meal that gives a taste of Nashville’s best flavors. Other favorites are Bartaco and L.A. Jackson at the Thompson Hotel. After exploring the culinary scene, experience some of the best activities the city has to offer. Drive down Music Row to see the history of country music in Nashville. The city still keeps a relaxed vibe despite being home to country music’s biggest stars. There are also places outside of the city that are worth taking the time to see. Driving out to the Belle Mede Plantation is another way to get a glimpse of Nashville’s history. After visiting the plantation, take a drive a few miles outside of the city
to Franklin, Tennessee. Downtown Franklin is a quaint town filled with shops and restaurants. Tin Cottage is a great spot in Franklin for picking up unique gifts to bring home to family and friends. Nashville has many areas that are perfect for grabbing a coffee and browsing local shops. Stroll down 12 South for local boutiques and restaurants. For a more modern feel, The Gulch is home to some newer stores as well as Nashville staples. Hillsboro Village also has a local feel and is minutes from the Vanderbilt campus. Nashville continues to stay true to its historic roots while becoming a trendy and ever-growing city. The cosmopolitan edge of the city stands out against its historic southern presence. Visiting Nashville is always a new experience with a different spot to see. Although it’s changing, Nashville will always carry a hometown feel.
Photos courtesy of Maria Behnen
Nashville Pride | DCXV Industries painted this “I A N N A . MI LT O N @PEPPER DINE.EDU
Believe in Nashville” mural on the side of Mitchell’s Deli. It is located on 12 South, a popular avenue in the city.
JANUA RY 1 7 , 2 0 1 9 | L IFE A N D A RTS | P E P P E R D I N E G RA P H I C ME D I A
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Put the pep back in Pepperdine c ar o line archer staf f writ e r Pepperdine is in the midst of many transformations. Everything from Payson Library to Willie the Wave is receiving a major upgrade, and school spirit on campus should follow suit. School spirit elevates performance, combats isolation and is simply a lot of fun. Students should make intentional efforts to increase school spirit, and they can do so simply by showing up. All of this begs the question, “Why does Pepperdine lack school spirit?” With numerous events for students to attend and a host of talents being showcased, it seems counterintuitive. One of the key causes of this deficiency is the fact that Pepperdine students across the board are high achievers. Pepperdine students devote their time and energy to being outstanding in their own ways. However, this means that they often fail to set aside time to support one another. When students are engrossed in their own individual passions, school spirit tends to dwindle, according to Stephanie Lam’s article “Why School Spirit?” published Oct. 8, 2013 by Huffington Post. Pepperdine students have the responsibility to intentionally counter this trend. While being dedicated to one’s own passions is important, it is also vital to support others in theirs. The benefits of increased school spirit are worth pursuing, both on an individual and campus-wide level. School spirit is more than just a buzzword. It is incredibly important to both a university and its students. A positive school culture “is intangible, but it’s essential; you can walk into a school and know immediately whether or not you want to be there,” according to Michael Haberman’s article “Why School Culture Matters, and
Art by Ally Armstrong How to Improve It,” published April 10, 2013 by Huffington Post. Additionally, strong school spirit improves the experience of students on an individual level. When a lot of students attend events and intentionally exude positivity, social isolation is reduced, according to Alan Reifman’s article “They’ve Got Spirit, Yes They Do,” published Jan. 1, 2011 by Psychology Today. Although the words “school spirit” tend to evoke images of athletic events, they extend far beyond the realm of sports. School spirit can be defined as the enthusiasm that pervades the culture of an institution, and at Pepperdine, there is no shortage of things to be enthusiastic about. To begin, the Fine Arts Department is home to incredibly talented students, and attending events that showcase said talents is a way that students can contribute to Pepperdine’s culture, making it more enthusiastic and supportive. Going to Dance
in Flight, Songfest, PIT and theatrical and musical productions not only provides entertainment but also serves as building blocks to better school spirit. The Board also hosts many events, all of which are opportunities to help school spirit grow. Coffeehouse, movie nights and free food — all of these things contribute to Pepperdine’s climate, making it a more exciting place to be. These events also provide a good time, which is valuable to student wellbeing. Athletic events are undoubtably a major component of developing school spirit. They are excellent opportunities for the student body to loudly showcase its enthusiasm for Pepperdine. Additionally, at smaller, more academically prestigious schools such as Pepperdine, a higher percentage of the student body actually participates in intercollegiate athletics. As a result, when students attend a game, there are good odds that they will get to see
at least one of their friends compete, wrote Alan Reifman. A victory is even more enjoyable when it’s achieved by a familiar face. Higher attendance at an event is also correlated with improved performance, according to Nate Kornell’s article “Three Ways Sports Fans Can Help Their Team Win,” published May 26, 2011 by the Pacific Standard. When people feel supported, they are more likely to succeed at what they are doing. This principle extends beyond athletics and into the realms of art and academics. In this way, audience members have power. Their presence can manifest good results. When people work hard at something, they desire to feel appreciated. Recognition is like currency, motivatLawrence Liu ing and Photos repayingby sacrifice. By being intentional about cultivating school spirit, students can promote this sense of recognition. It is time for the tide to turn toward a more spirited, exciting C AR OL INE.AR C HER @PEPPER DINE.EDU Pepperdine.
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P E P P E R DIN E GR A P H IC M E DIA | N E W S | J A N U A RY 1 7 , 20 1 9
Photos Courtesy of Mark Burch/Pepperdine Athletics
Madness in Madison | (Clockwise from top left) Junior Hannah Frohling shows off her swing. The team celebrates at the NCAA Tournament. The team returns to the court in Wisconsin. Frohling focuses on her serve. The team jumps for joy after defeating Northern Iowa.
Frohling leads W. Volleyball to NCAA Tournament
Karl Winter a s s i s ta n t s p o r t s e d i t o r Hannah Frohling made a major impact for Pepperdine Women’s Volleyball for the first two years of her collegiate career. However, she did not see the Waves qualify for the postseason, have a winning road record or even have a winning conference record in either of those two years. In 2018, Frohling and the team accomplished all three, taking second place in the West Coast Conference (WCC) en route to the program’s first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2012.
“We control the ball really well and our chemistry is really good,” Frohling, a junior outside hitter, said. “Everyone is on the same page, and I think that’s been something that’s been missing in the past.” The Waves won their final four conference games despite three being relocated away from Firestone Fieldhouse due to the Woolsey Fire. The team then traveled to Madison, Wisconsin, where they defeated Northern Iowa before falling to No. 6 Wisconsin in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. “There’s been a ton of
growth in a lot of ways, from the ability to compete in the gym in practice to the ability to compete on the road,” Head Coach Scott Wong said. Wong’s team finished with a 10-8 record away from Firestone, including 6-3 against WCC opponents, to complement a sparkling 12-1 record at home. This completed a jump from seventh place in the conference in 2017 to second in 2018. “Everyone is buying into the culture we’re trying to create,” junior outside hitter Jaiden Farr said. Farr’s roommate, Frohling, is one of the Waves’
captains and leaders of this culture. Frohling has played in 92 matches in three years and started 80 of those matches, leading Pepperdine in service aces in 2018 and amassing over 1000 kills thus far in her career. “I thought, when I came here, that I would get lucky if I was getting to play by my junior year,” Frohling said. “Getting to actually have an impact [as a freshman] was huge for me, and I think it’s paying off a lot now too.” Frohling was the only Wave in 2018 to be named to both the AllWCC First Team and the All-WCC Academic Team. “[Frohling] is constantly trying to find ways to get better in school, on the volleyball court, as a person, in her faith, everything,” said Blossom Sato, Pepperdine’s senior setter who was also recognized on the 2018 AllWCC First Team. Frohling, an avid Taylor Swift fan from suburban Oklahoma, is described by her roommate as “very, very introverted.” “[Frohling is] very determined and very goal-oriented,” Farr said. “She knows she wants to be a physical therapist and will do whatever it takes to get to that.” Frohling agrees and admits that balancing her sports medicine major with volleyball is “really hard.”
“I don’t have time to do things that aren’t 100 percent necessary,” Frohling said. Although Frohling has not entirely ruled out the option of playing volleyball professionally overseas, she intends to attend graduate school for physical therapy. “[Frohling] has great relationships with professors, she has great relationships with her teammates and friends . . . she embodies the prototype student-athlete at Pepperdine,” Wong said. Ultimately, Frohling’s new leadership role as a captain helped her teammates to deal with an injury to the team’s other starting outside hitter, senior Nikki Lyons. “Lead by example is my priority,” Frohling said. “I don’t really like confrontation, but I think I’ve had
to step into confrontation . . . I’ve definitely had to be in some uncomfortable situations because of [being a captain] but I think I’ve really grown from it.” She credits her teammates for the team’s rise. “[Sophomore transfer] Shannon [Scully] has really stepped up and taken on that other outside hitter role,” Frohling said. Some of Frohling’s teammates also received 2018 conference awards. Scully and redshirt junior middle blocker Tarah Wylie were named to the All-WCC Honorable Mention team, and hitter Rachel Ahrens was recognized on the All-WCC Freshman Team. Scully, Wylie, Ahrens and Frohling will all return in 2019 to help the Waves aim for a return to the NCAA Tournament.
KARL.WINTER@PEPPERDINE.EDU
Women’s Basketball earns conference win against Santa Clara Kyle Mccabe a s s i s ta n t s p o r t s e d i t o r Pepperdine Women’s Basketball beat the Santa Clara University Broncos 74-48 Thursday, Jan. 10. The Waves, led by freshman Malia Bambrick’s 25 points, improved to 9-6 overall and 3-2 in conference play, while the Broncos dropped to 8-7 and 1-3 in the West Coast Conference. This was the first of three straight home conference games for the Waves, with San Francisco and Loyola Marymount coming to town Jan. 12 and 19, respectively. Pepperdine got off to a slow start, trailing by five halfway through the first quarter. But thanks to a 6-0 scoring run, the Waves ended the quarter leading 13-12. “I think the thing that allowed us to have that slow start is whenever teams play zone, you want to take a moment to kind of see how you can maneuver through it, and once we
found our rhythm within it, it was lights out,” first year Head Coach DeLisha Milton-Jones said. The score went back and forth for the first five minutes of the second quarter, before Pepperdine went on a 15-6 run to end the half with a 3325 lead. Junior Deezah Battle scored five of her 10 points during that run. “We just continued to push the tempo,” Battle said. “We really had to pick it up on the defensive end to get our offense going, and that’s how we ended up pulling away.” The third quarter saw the game slip away from the Broncos. Pepperdine had a 12-0 run on their way to outscoring Santa Clara 24-8 in the quarter. Bambrick’s nine third quarter points made it her most productive quarter. Pepperdine outscored Santa Clara 17-15 in the fourth quarter and achieved their largest lead of the game with 4:19 left at 72-38. The game ended 74-
48 after the Broncos eight-point comeback fell short. The win puts the Waves in third place in the West Coast Conference, and gives them a 3-1 home record on the season. “Anytime we can win a conference game, whether you’re on the road or you’re at home, it’s always huge,” Milton-Jones said. “And now that we have this momentum behind us, I’m hoping this win will spark a fire that will burn throughout the next two we have at home.” Senior Yasmine Robinson-Bacote extended her double-digit scoring streak to 15 games with her 16 points and is looking forward to two more games at home. “I think, especially now that we’re home, we’re comfortable,” Robinson-Bacote said. “We’re able to be around familiar things, we’re no longer on the road and in unfamiliar places, so I think it’ll be great for us overall just to be able to get back to what we’re comfortable with and playing in front of people
that are here for us.” Women’s Basketball returns to Firestone Fieldhouse Jan. 12 at 2 p.m. against San
Francisco and again Jan. 19 at 2 p.m. against Loyola Marymount. KYLE.J.M CCABE@PEPPERDINE.EDU
Photos Courtesy of Pepperdine Athletics Home Court Handles | Junior Barbara Sitanggan dribbles the ball up the court.
J A N UA RY 1 7 , 2 0 1 9 | S PORTS | P E P P E R DINE G RA P H I C ME D I A
Men’s Golf Team looks to keep up hot streak AUST IN HALL s taf f w r i ter
Through five tournaments, the Pepperdine Men’s Golf team has been consistent in all phases. In tournaments hosted by the University of New Mexico, California-Berkeley, Baylor, Hawaii and Saint Mary’s, the Waves have finished no lower than fifth place. In their second and fourth tournaments, they took first, something they did not accomplish through their first five in the 2017-2018 outing. The first place finishes at the Alister Mackenzie Invitational and Warrior Princeville Makai Invitational were at the hands of sophomore RJ Manke and junior Clay Feagler. It was Manke who won his first title at the Alister MacKenzie Invitational
hosted by California-Berkeley and broke Pepperdine records in the process. Manke set the Waves’ records for a round of 54 holes, finishing 22-under par and 18 holes in the final round, to conclude his victory by four shots. “Even though I was in the final group at the Alister McKenzie, I didn’t feel nervous at all,” Manke said. “It felt more like a normal round than at most tournaments. I came back on Collin Morikawa (UC Berkeley) sometime on the back nine, and pulled ahead with an eagle on 15 and birdies on the last two.” Despite Manke having a top score on nearly every hole before he reached the 18th tee, he was not aware that his first title was one birdie away. “Honestly, I didn’t know
exactly where I stood compared to [Morikawa] any time during the day until the 18th tee,” Manke said. “I tried not to think about what my score was during the round, and it turned out for the best.” Feagler won his third career title at the Royal Oaks Intercollegiate hosted by the University of Baylor. He finished in a threeway tie for first with a 4-under round of 206. While Feagler is happy with the team’s success so far this season, he feels their mindset is going to carry them deep into the postseason. “Anytime you win something, it’s always special,” Feagler said. “I think this team is a little more special than previous years because we know we are good enough to win.” The Waves are ranked no. 15 in the country on the Golf
Coaches of America Association rankings. The spot below them belongs to the Brigham Young University Cougars, Pepperdine’s biggest challengers in the West Coast Conference. The Waves shared the course with the Cougars twice this season, their first and fifth tournaments of the season. At the William H. Tucker Intercollegiate hosted by New Mexico, Pepperdine finished third to BYU’s first. Most recently at the Saint Mary’s Invitational at Pebble Beach, Pepperdine took third again to the BYU’s second-place finish. While the Waves are just a notch above them in national rankings, the Cougars have come out on top in tournament play. Manke is aware of the Cougars’ talent and expects a competitive West Coast Conference
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clash between them to decide the champion. “BYU is looking to be a tough team to beat for the WCC Conference this spring,” Manke said. “They have some great players, but so do we. If both teams get hot in April, it could be a really good close tournament.” Pepperdine’s next tournament is Feb. 18-20 in La Quinta, California, at the Prestige at PGA West.
AUSTIN.HAL L @PEPPER DINE.EDU
and Sheridan Davis
Photos Courtesy of Pepperdine Athletics Mahalo Hawaii | (Left) Sophomore RJ Manke tees off in Princeville, Kauai. (Right) The team celebrates their victory at the Warrior Princeville Makai Invitational in October. Courtesy of Pepperdine Athletics and Calvin Wood
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//The Graphic
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J anuary 17, 2019
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SPORTS
Photos by Erica Martinez and Jacob Resendiz Star-Studded Softball | (Top left) Actor Adam Sandler awaits a pitch. (Top right) Actor and Celebrity Softball Game MVP Jimmy Tatro poses between defending National League MVP Christian Yelich (left) and Yelich’s Brewers teammate Ryan Braun. (Bottom) Malibu resident and NBA Hall of Fame member Reggie Miller thanks first responders and service members.
Celebrities rally behind California’s recent tragedies
Er ic a Martinez s taf f write r
In response to the recent Camp Fire, Woolsey Fire and Borderline Bar and Grill shooting, the California Strong foundation hosted a celebrity softball game Sunday at Pepperdine’s Eddy D. Field Baseball Stadium. The California Strong movement exceeded their goals, raising $1.4 million and are continuing to take donations for years to come. Milwaukee Brewers players Christian Yelich, Ryan Braun and Mike Moustakas and Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff teamed up with Southeast Ventura County YMCA to create a widespread nonprofit effort for victims of these tragic events. “We just wanted to help and we wanted to give back,” Milwaukee Brewers left fielder Braun said. “I think the coolest part about being [in] the position I’m in as a professional athlete is using my platform to possibly impact other people’s lives and by getting a lot of other celebrity friends to join the cause and to get the opportunity to get so much bigger and hopefully impact so many more lives.” Locals, fans and students piled into Eddy D. Field Baseball Stadium to watch some of the biggest names in sports and
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entertainment. from actor Rob Riggle and then another are looking to continue this as a new Some celebrities who participated in at the bottom of the fifth from actor Ja- tradition. the game were Jamie Foxx, Adam San- leel White. The Cleveland Browns quar“I came up and I couldn’t believe it,” dler, Baker Mayfield, Reggie Miller and terback Mayfield scored a run for Team Dain Blanton, former Volleyball Olymmany more. A large maCalifornia, bringing the pian and Pepperdine alumnus (1994), jority of the celebrities game to a tie at 2-2. said. “I’ve been to a lot of events at Pepare residents of the MalHowever, Team perdine and never had to wait 20 minibu area and were excitStrong came back with utes to just drive up the hill. The turnout ed to bring the commuanother run when ac- is just phenomenal and it’s just all about Photos of Pepperdine Athletics nity together after such tress Jaina Lee OrtizCourtesy coming together and supporting.” tragedies. scored, securing victory California is still on the road to re“I think everyone for Team Strong. covery but with the support from the either was first-hand Between innings California Strong foundation, the funds affected by the fire or the California Strong raised will assist many people who were knows someone who foundation present- affected. lost everything,” NBA ed $10,000 checks to “Everybody has been incredibly supHall of Famer Miller families that were af- portive and that is something that said. “I’m five minutes fected by the devastat- means the world to us,” Braun said. “Befrom Pepperdine and ing events, including a ing able to get all these athletes and cewe were in the middle check to the Borderline lebrities in one place at one time is not of it.” Bar and Grill owner, Bri- easy but everybody wanted to contribThe game consisted an Hynes. ute because it is for such a great cause.” of Team California ver“Malibu is such a sus Team Strong with small community; the celebrities divided reggie miller, malibu everyone knows just between the two. Caliabout everyone so it’s resident and nba hall of fornia started it off in great seeing everyone the fourth-inning with famer band together and help a run from YouTube one another out,” Miller personality and actor Jimmy Tatro who said. “I’ve never seen anything like this later received the MVP award during the and to be a part of something like this is trophy ceremony. incredible.” Team Strong brought the game to The celebrities said they were imER IC A.M AR TINEZ@PEPPER DINE.EDU a tie in the bottom fourth with a run pressed with the full stadium that they
I've never seen anything like this and to be a part of something like this is incredible.