Pepperdine Graphic 11-8-18

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Volume xLVIII, Issue 9 November 8, 2018

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to forgive or Not

to forgive Christians struggle with sexual assault violations M a di s o n N i c h o ls g u e st c o nt r i b u t o r

Photos by Kaelin Mendez Flying Away | Participants release butterflies as a part of Emily Shane Foundation’s fourth annual butterfly release fundraiser. The money raised went toward their mentorship program for stuggling adolescents.

butterflies take flight

Emily Shane Foundation Releases 1,000 Butterflies on Alumni park Kay iu Wong ass i s tant ne ws e dit or Up, up and away!

The Emily Shane Foundation released 1,000 Painted Lady butterflies on Alumni Park Sunday to raise money for the organization’s mentor program for struggling middle school students.

Michel and Ellen Shane started the foundation in 2012 in honor of their 13-year-old daughter, Emily. Emily was struck by a car and killed while walking next to Pacific Coast Highway in 2010.

The organization’s Successful Educational Achievement (SEA) program pairs struggling middle students in Los Angeles County with college mentors for tutoring and personal support.

The Shanes said they created the SEA program because Emily dealt with processing challenges in school, and they wanted to reach out to others like her after her death.

“We realized that there was a real hole in education for kids in middle school that were struggling, not because they had anything wrong with them, but because they were more creative or learned differently,” Michel said.

Michel said the foundation has mentored around 500 students since the program’s inception.

“Not only do we give a child a

this week in SGA

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Fluttering Away | Little girls run across Alumni Park like the butterflies released during the Emily Shane Foundation’s fundraiser. mentor that doesn’t judge them, we give them someone that is there to help them, to organize them, to show them the way to do things,” Michel said.

This year was the fourth year of the Emily Shane Foundation’s butterfly release fundraiser.

Ellen said the foundation’s symbol

SGA passed a resolution to provide a clear breakdown of how SGA uses students’ $126 Campus Life Fee on WaveNet. SGA will also send out an email at the end of academic year detailing how the Campus Life Fee was spent.

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is a butterfly because Emily used the word ‘butterfly’ as a nickname and because of the word’s connotation for change.

“Butterflies are very significant because they represent transformation,” Ellen said. “So we kind of think of it as a student in the program who comes in and transforms in a posi-

The Lord’s prayer asks Christians to forgive those who trespass against them. Though, when a congregation applauds for a pastor who confesses to sexually assaulting a teen in his youth ministry, many question whether there are limits to Christian forgiveness.

Highpoint Church Teaching Pastor Andy Savage of Memphis told his congregation during a service Jan. 7, that he was involved in what he called a “sexual incident” 20 years ago with then 17-year-old and member of Savage’s youth group, Jules Woodson.

In a personal interview March 18, Woodson said she wants the church to recognize that sexual abuse within the church is a real issue.

“The reason I am coming forward is to gain healing and closure for myself because this is something I have carried around for 20 years,” Woodson said. “No. 2, I want other victims to know that they are not alone. And No. 3, I want to create change.”

Savage’s public confession was in response to a blog post on Wartburg Watch Dog that Woodson posted Jan. 5, which exploded on social media.

“I was, and remain, very remorseful for the incident and deeply regret the pain I caused her and her family,” Savage said in a live broadcast that aired on the Highpoint Church’s Facebook page, which can now only be seen on the New York Times. “As well as the pain I caused the church and God’s kingdom.”

Savage’s church gave him a standing ovation for his confession. But the applause was heard around the world, leading to controversy that forced Savage to resign from his teaching ministry at Highpoint Church on March 20.

Shortly thereafter, the Chicago Tribune reported allegations of sexual misconduct against megachurch pastor Bill Hybel, founder of Chicago’s Willow Creek Community Church and a former spiritual adviser to Bill Clinton.

Hybel, who has denied all charges, resigned April 11, according to the Washington Post.

Willow Creek, one of the largest evangelical Christian churches in the nation, responded to Hybel’s resignation with similar opposition. He too received a standing ovation.

As Christians grapple with the #MeToo movement, these stories show the challenges churches face in dealing with sexual assault and harassment allegations. Christian calls for forgiveness sometimes conflict with Christian calls for accountability, justice and protection of the survivors. The lack of support Woodson received from the church raises questions about how a church should respond to allegations and what it can do to combat incidents from occurring. Pepperdine faculty and students said they continue to wrestle with these questions.

Students hesitant to forgive In a poll of 50 students, 71 percent said

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SGA passed a resolution to purchase and distribute 1,000 reusable straws to students at a tabling event from Nov. 26 to Nov. 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in Lower Mullin Town Square.

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SGA discussed a plan to collect data on how prices Courtesy of Ron Hall on food items at Nature’s Edge compare to prices at surrounding grocery stores.

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Don’t forget to be a friend

THE DPS REPORTS Check out pepperdine.edu/publicsafety for the DPS Reports every week

Ryan harding C o py c h i e f In the midst of shootings, political unrest and midterms (both elections and tests), it can be easy to get caught up in one’s own thoughts and problems and forget to pay attention to how others are doing.

I am notoriously guilty for this mistake. I tend to favor my classwork and extracurriculars over being intentional about showing interest in my friends’ lives. That needs to change.

While many people simply address what is most immediately relevant in their own lives, practicing selflessness and compassion is crucial to any relationship. Caring for someone means nothing without making an effort to show it.

Reaching out to a friend is easy and effective. A short text takes mere seconds and makes another person feel special and cared for. Intentional conversations and genuinely-expressed interest in one another’s lives can change someone’s day from dismal and lonely to uplifting and full of support.

It’s important to remember that being unhappy is not synonymous with being a burden.

Friends aren’t just around for the fair weather; they are a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on during the roughest times because they love and want to support one another.

With troubling events happening around the world, setting aside preoccupations and being an active and available friend is more important than ever.

A simple “I was thinking of you” or “Tell me what’s going on and how I can help,” is an invaluable tool that can turn someone’s entire life around. It’s never too late to start being a better friend and improving the lives of others; all it really takes is a caring heart and a quick text.

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10/26/18 12:17 a.m.

Crimes: Alcohol-Related/ Non-Criminal - Possession of Alcohol on Campus Location: Seaside Residence Hall

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10/27/18 4 a.m.

Crimes: Alcohol-Related/ Non-Criminal - Individual(s) Drinking or Intoxicated on Campus Location: Darnell House

Drescher (North)

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10/27/18 4:29 p.m.

Crimes: Alcohol-Related/ Non-Criminal - Possession of Alcohol on Campus // Possession of a Weapon on Campus Location: George Page Apartments

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11/02/18 7:18 p.m.

Crimes: Traffic Related Hit-and-Run, Non-Injury Accident Location: George Page Apartments

4 Alumni field (South)

UPCOMING EVENTS THIS SEMESTER What: “C urta ins” when: 11/ 16 Wher e: s mo th er s theatr e

Wh at: women’s volleyball vs. san diego Wh e N: 11/20 Wh e re : fir estone fieldhouse

What: finding balanc e Whe N : 11/26 Whe re : elkins audi t ori u m

W hat: g u i tar c hamb er c onc ert W he N: 1 1 / 2 6 W he r e : rai t t rec i tal hal l

W hat: t he i mp ortanc e of g i vi ng W he N: 1 1 / 2 7 W he r e : amp hi t heat er

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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Wh at: spanish chapeL Wh e n: 10:10 a.M. Wh e re : stauffer chapel

What: “th e restless” m is s in g pe o pl e and missin g h is to ry with ger ty da m bury When: 3 p.m.

Wher e: s urfboar d r oom

TUES. 13

Wh at: ger man chap el Wh e n: 10 a.m.

Wh e re : stauffer c hap el Wh at: ar abic cha p el Wh e n: 2:30 p.m.

Wh e re : plc 104 Wh at: fr ench chap el Wh e n: 4 p.m.

Wh e re : stauffer c hap el

WEDS. 14

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 W hat: c hi nes e c hap el W he n: noon W he r e : c c b 3 4 0 W hat: f i ndi ng b al anc e W he n: 7 p. m.

W he r e : el k i ns au di t ori u m

THURS. 15

W hat: b ook l au nc h - “ b oy z n t he hood: s hi f t i ng holly wood t errai n” wi t h j oi c arr W he n: 5 p. m.

W he r e : s u rf b oard room W hat: dat e-onomi c s W he n: 7 p. m.

W he r e : f i res i de room W hat: c u rtai ns W he n: 7 : 3 0 p. m.

W he r e : s mot hers t heat re

RYAN.HARDING@PEPPERDINE.EDU

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P E P P E R DIN E GR A P H IC M E DIA | N E W S | NOV E MB E R 8 , 20 1 8

FORGIVE: Christians discuss mercy F R OM A 1 there are exceptions to the Lord’s prayer asking people “to forgive those who trespass against us.”

Twenty two percent said there are no exceptions.

The poll found that 80 percent of students surveyed said sexual harassment is a disqualification for Christian leadership but only 74 percent thought sexual assault was. Students were more willing to allow leaders to repent of assault than harassment.

This may indicate that students are confused about the differences between harassment and assault.

Tanya Hart, History professor and director of the Women’s Studies Program, said sexual harassment is verbally painful but sexual assault is much more damaging and serious.

“I’ve been harassed my entire life but it’s not like having your body touched and violated in an assault,” Hart said.

LaShonda Coleman, Pepperdine University Title IX coordinator, did not respond to an interview request.

Balancing forgiveness and accountability The applause for Savage’s confession created controversy, as many Christians struggle with where they stand.

Pepperdine Religion Professor David Lemley, who specializes in ministry, said the Memphis megachurch’s response to Savage’s confession shows the level of acceptance and forgiveness that lies within the Christian church.

“It was sort of a celebration of his honesty, his willingness to confess,” Lemley said. “A view of it was this is a witness to the grace of God.” But Lemley said the church needs to acknowledge that sexual abuse is an issue within the church that needs to be dealt with.

“If there is going to be a sense of ‘our community embraces [the perpetrator],’ then it needs to be ‘our community embraces the process of making this right,’” Lemley said.

It was a strange thing for the Memphis megachurch to react so affirmingly to Savage’s confession but that it showed Christian communities’ strong commitment to how they treat people, Lemley said. Whereas Hollywood is blacklisting sexual predators, Lemley said the church acts the way they believe God would in these situations.

“The church is the result of God’s loving mission in the world, you know,” Lemley said. “The church is the result of God’s spirit and bringing people together to do the work that God has for them to do.”

Hart stressed how harmful sexual assault and sexual harassment can be, and how dangerous it can be when it is swept under the rug or not talked about.

Hart said the Bible does not condone these actions and the Bible is not misogynistic in any way, shape or form. These are actions of human beings.

“The problem isn’t with God,” Hart said. “The problem isn’t with Jesus. The problem is with human beings. We need to look at ourselves.”

However, she agreed that the church’s applause was acknowledging Savage’s repentance and could provide an example for others to come forward.

“If one person repents, who has been sexually assaulting his wife, girlfriend, somebody else, a man, whatever, I mean, I think that’s a great thing,” Hart said. “I think God is going to be rejoicing.

Why can’t we rejoice with that person?”

Woodson said people need to

acknowledge that sexual abuse is a huge problem within the church, that sexual abuse is a crime and the church is accountable to report incidents to law enforcement. Furthermore, she said it is important to listen to the stories of survivors and utilize outside resources to become more educated on the problem.

“In the Bible, it talks about that we are supposed to be following the law of the land, essentially, and there are rules in place for a reason,” Woodson said. “The church, the parishioners, the pastors – nobody is above the law.”

Only 28 states include clergy as mandated reporters of child abuse and neglect, according to a 2008 Child Welfare Information Gateway study.

Woodson added that in Texas,

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The problem isn't with God. The problem isn't with Jesus. The problem is with human beings. We need to look at ourselves.” tanya hart, history professor and director of the Women’s Studies Program where her case took place, clergy are mandated reporters.

Sophomore Carolyn Van Den Hoogen said her church had experience with a female church leader who was accused of sexual harassment. The church ruled she was not guilty and the female continued working with youth groups.

Van Den Hoogen said she believes the accuser had alternative motives but the incident still shook her faith.

“It showed me that we need to look at both sides of the issue – that some people may claim sexual assault because it is a cry for help and they want attention,” Van Den Hoogen said.

She believes those found guilty should be removed from leadership but not from the church.

“We shouldn’t completely turn our backs to [the accused],” Van Den Hoogen said. “They should still be involved in the church.”

Maintaining faith in the church Woodson said she felt her entire church congregation failed her, leaving her with a rocky relationship with her church, but she continued her faith in God. Lemley said going back to church would be hard for victims of sexual abuse, especially when the perpetrator was a church leader. However, he said community is an important part of one’s relationship with God. “If you catch the idea that God is present and loving and can do transforming work in your life, you’re going to be drawn into community,” Lemley said.

“You’re going to be drawn into a community of people who want to be part of that change for each other and for the world that they live in.”

Sophomore Claire Duval said she does not think her faith would be the same if she were to discover her pastor had sexually assaulted someone.

“There is that old saying ‘practice what you preach,’” Duval said. “If they’re not really practicing what they are preaching, why should I listen to what they are saying?”

Roman Catholic abuse scandal The Roman Catholic church dealt with similar questions of forgiveness versus accountability

as it covered up the actions of numerous pedophile priests, which the Boston Globe first uncovered in 2002. Out of the 1,671 credible allegations, church leaders only removed 6 percent of abusers from the clergy, according to United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ formal report, The Nature and Scope of the Problem of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Catholic Priests and Deacons in the United States.

Only 3 percent served prison sentences.

Debate about whether or not to remove a church official convicted or accused of sexual assault sparks major controversy and division within the church.

After boys from his Roman Catholic church reported that their priest had sexually harassed them, sophomore John Peterson said his trust in his church was put into question.

“My faith was put in a difficult situation,” Peterson said. “I was raised to believe something, and the very people that told me that lied to me and cheated me when they did this terrible act.”

Peterson does not think his church handled the situation properly. He said their priest stayed for multiple years until complaints began to pile up. The church eventually decided to move the priest.

Catholics cite the scandal, the cover-up and the ongoing payouts to survivors as the biggest issue facing the church, according to Pew research. Priest sexual abuse scandals costs have cost the church about $4 billion total, according to a 2015 National Catholic Reporter article.

Like many Christian churches, Roman Catholic numbers are declining. The church lost 3 million members between 2007 and 2014, dropping to 51 million Americans, according to a Pew Research Center March 2015 report.

“Nearly one-third of American adults (31.7 percent) say they were raised Catholic,” the report said. “Among that group, fully 41 percent no longer identify with Catholicism.”

How can Christians solve this problem?

Hart said she believes human sin is at the root of the problem and that exposing that sin and the power dynamics that are involved can help victims come forward.

“We need to quit rejecting what people say and listen,” Hart said. “And accept what they are saying is true.”

Hart also believes there needs to be better educational efforts directed at men.

“We don’t turn the lens on men and teach them how to deal with their sexuality, how to deal with their emotions, how to deal with what’s going on with their brains from childhood,” Hart said.

Edna Powell, Pepperdine University’s previous Title IX director for employees and current Chief Business Officer, said there needs to be more exposure to these issues at a younger age so people can protect themselves.

“But the things that are happening in the world and happening to people and hurting people, we need to talk about it and educate very early on in schools, in church,” Powell said. “The church needs to be part of this.”

Lemley said he believed Christian leaders should be held accountable for their actions.

“We need to create greater accountability and support for our own community so we don’t participate in this,” Lemley said. “We need to create more transparency so we don’t fall victim to silence or blindness in this.”

Woodson encouraged students to utilize GRACE, Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment, as a resource.

Basyle “Boz” Tchividjian developed the nonprofit GRACE in 2006. The organization stresses the importance of educating churches and other Christian organizations to care for those impacted by abuse in an appropriate matter.

“What I love about GRACE is that they are not just a crisis management [group],” Woodson said. “They want to train Christians and leaders, and pastors in the church to, recognize signs of abuse, recognize how abuse affects people.”

The GRACE website promotes church responsibility, accountability and compassion for abuse survivors.

The Rev. Serene Jones, president of the Union Theological Seminary in New York City, spoke with NPR’s Michael Marin about the Memphis church’s response to the sexual abuse incident.

“I think the church has not only sided with the predators, but oftentimes the theology that’s taught in churches promotes the view that women should be submissive to men, meaning also that women, regardless of their age or their place, should be submissive to men’s desires,” Jones told NPR. “And this all too often leads to abuse. And it’s embedded in the theology.”

Lemley said scripture is used to justify and rationalize human acts.

“I think that anybody who is a serious student of scripture has to recognize that there are passages that are really troubling in describing social structures and describing gender injustice,” Lemley said. “If I’m really a disciple of Jesus, I would not ever do those things.”

Woodson and Savage Today Woodson said she grappled a lot with her decision to email Savage as she did Dec. 1, an email she said he has not responded to.

But Woodson said she believes the rest of her story is not in her hands.

“God, this is in your hands,” Woodson said. “You know my heart. I am struggling. I just ask for guidance, direction and wisdom.”

Woodson said it is overwhelming to have her story in the public eye but she hopes it will inspire others to come forward.

“It’s not just about me,” Woodson said. “It’s about how many times this is happening all over the world, in every church, and everybody who has been victimized and everybody who has been treated wrongly.”

The Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constables Office released an online statement Jan. 8 that Savage will face no criminal charges because the situation is beyond the statute of limitations.

Savage explained his resignation from ministry in a statement NBC published March 20.

“When Jules cried out for justice, I carelessly turned the topic to my own story of moral change, as if getting my own life in order should help to make up for what she went through and continues to go through,” Savage said in the NBC article. “I agree with Jules that, of all places, we as the church should be getting this right.”

Woodson said that although Savage’s leave is a sign of progression, it is certainly not the end of the journey.

“This is a wake up call for everyone,” Woodson wrote in a formal statement she sent to the Pepperdine Graphic. “There is a systematic problem within the institution of the church that props people up in places of power and gives them immunity based on cheap grace and a call forgiveness. This has bred a culture ripe for abuse and cover-up.

Repentance, accountability and justice should not be contrived.”

M ADISON.NIC HOL S@PEPPER DINE.EDU

SHANE: Foundation holds butterfly fundraiser F RO M A1 comes in and transforms in a positive way to be the best student that they can be and reach their best academic potential.”

Community members at the event could sponsor a butterfly for $10, bid for auction items or buy raffle tickets for prizes.

Pepperdine senior Linda Glevy interns at the Emily Shane Foundation and said she enjoyed seeing the event come to life.

“It feels good to see all the little things I helped with come together for something that is benefiting so many kids,” Glevy said.

Around 20 Pepperdine students volunteered at the event Sunday.

Freshman Lauren Whittington volunteered by selling raffle tickets and helped raise $100 for the foundation.

“Each raffle ticket sponsors one hour of a student being tutored, so knowing I raised enough money for 10 hours of kids being tutored feels good,” Whittington said.

Junior Reem Al Zubair said watching a thousand butterflies fly around Alumni Park was her favorite part of the event.

“I’d never seen live butterflies before, so that was super cool for me,” Al Zubair said.

The Emily Shane Foundation hires university students to work as mentors for the SEA program. Students who are interested can email info@emilyshane.org for more information.

K AYIU.W ONG@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Courtesy of Emily Shane Foundation In Her Name | Michel and Ellen Shane started the Emily Shane Foundation after a car struck and killed their daughter, Emily (above), on Pacific Coast Highway in 2012. The foundation used butterflies (below) as their fundraiser because “Butterfly” was one of Emily’s nicknames and is symbolic of the students the foundation helps.

Kaelin Mendez | Photo Editor

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Community reacts to Pittsburgh shooting ryan har di ng copy chi e f

In response to the tragic Pittsburgh synagogue shooting, the Pepperdine community, especially the Jewish community, is calling for civil discourse, demonstrations of love and continued support to promote peace on campus.

“Cultures need to come together because this is not something anybody wants to have happen in their community,” Monica Welsh, program coordinator for the Glazer Institute for Jewish Studies, said.

“It’s a perfect time to reflect on how these kinds of things can happen and how we can prevent that.”

Robert Bowers, 46, attacked the Tree of Life synagogue in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, Oct. 27. During his 20 minutes inside the synagogue, Bowers killed 11 people and injured six, including four police officers. Bowers was indicted on 44 counts, including multiple hate crimes carrying the maximum sentence of the death penalty. As of Friday, all 11 victims were buried per Jewish traditions and memorial services continue around the country.

In the days following the shooting, Pepperdine administrators and staff took quick action to address what happened and show support to the community. Upon hearing of the shooting, Chaplain Sara Barton said she immediately started thinking and praying about how she and her staff should respond.

In partnership with the Glazer Institute for Jewish Studies, the Office of the Chaplain hosted a prayer service memorializing the shooting victims Tuesday, Oct. 30.

“We need to understand that people of faith can come together and support each other,” Barton said.

The following day, Vice President for Student Affairs Connie Horton sent out a university-wide email expressing gratitude for the prayer service, requesting that members of the community take action against acts of hatred and encouraging those who may be feeling distressed to seek out help.

“Any violent expression of hate toward people because of their religious beliefs, racial/ ethnic group, political views, or any social identity or group membership is absolutely reprehensible,” Horton wrote.

Senior Logan Hall, host of Pepperdine Graphic Media’s

“The Rundown,” said he believes in being a part of a religious university, the Pepperdine community as a whole recognizes the gravity of the shooting.

“It looked like our community really came together to say, ‘This is something that we are not OK with and we want to show our support for that community,’” Hall said. “We definitely were able to recognize that when people are persecuted for their religion, it’s awful.”

For many on campus, the shooting caused reactions of sadness and dismay. Freshman Karina Weingard, who is Jewish, said she felt disappointed in society.

“You’d think that after the Holocaust, we would’ve worked past the anti-Semitism and the hatred, but it’s events like these that make you reevaluate and think ‘Are we really taking a step forward or two steps backwards?’” Weingard said. “We’re all human beings and we all want the same goal: health, family and love. What you believe in shouldn’t come in the way of that.”

Hall, who is also Jewish, said he was devastated and never expected to see anti-Semitism elevate to the level of a mass shooting in the US. Associate Provost for Assessment and Institutional Effectiveness Lisa Bortman said as a young adult, she didn’t expect violence either but has come to be very conscious about danger as time has gone on.

“I sent my own children to a religious preschool and I don’t know if I would do that now,” Bortman said. “It’s so disheartening to think that you don’t feel safe [at a place of worship].”

This act of anti-Semitism brings attention to Jewish groups across the nation, and Pepperdine’s Jewish community is no exception. Andrea Harris, senior director of Student Administrative Services, said she is profoundly touched by the outpouring of support given to Pepperdine’s Jewish community at this time.

The Jewish community on campus is small, with only about 25 students and several staff members actively identifying with the faith, Bortman said. While Bortman and Harris are both openly Jewish, they said there are both Jewish students and staff on campus who keep their faith to themselves.

The reasons for not outwardly claiming their faith vary from person to person, but many of those who are open about being Jewish are welcomed at Pepperdine, Bortman said.

Harris agreed.

“I have never felt the need to hide who I am,” Harris said. “I am respected by people from all different backgrounds because of my faith or in spite of my faith, whatever the case is.

But knowing that my faith is an important part of who I am, I feel wholly embraced.”

Harris said when she first started working at Pepperdine, her boss at the time, Provost Rick Marrs, even gifted her with Hanukkah decorations so that she could celebrate her own faith while the majority of the office decorated for Christmas.

“I think we’re very fortunate,” Bortman said. “I think that in being a Christian institution, faith is a part of our education, so we’re considerate about everybody’s faith more so than if you were at a secular institution that didn’t think about faith at all. I appreciate Pepperdine going the extra step and really thinking about students of all faiths.”

Bortman said non-Jewish students are also accepting and respectful, especially in the wake of the shooting, and that Jewish students reported that they’ve received nothing but support from their peers.

Hall said he never felt that there was a sense of Jewish community on campus or that he furthered his faith while being a student at Pepperdine but agreed that, for the most part, the university is a safe and supportive place for Jewish students.

“I’ve never been worried about being Jewish or talking about my beliefs,” Hall said.

“Pepperdine is a Christian university and I think that something so special is that Christian values and morals really do embrace all cultures and do preach a loving and accepting environment.”

In the days leading up to the shooting, though, Hall had an interaction with another Pepperdine student who engaged in hate speech.

“The student started praising the actions of Hitler, talking about how what he did was so great and that he’s a legend,” Hall said. “I called him out on it.”

Other students who heard the hate speech were shocked and did not support the offending student, Hall said. Hall reported the incident to multiple people and said that the Department of Public Safety “does a great job” monitoring hate speech on campus.

“I’ve never really experienced anti-Semitism,” Hall said. “I know that it exists. I know that it’s out there and

that people have these views.

Until recently, I’ve never seen it in a very public sphere like we are now. But I was shocked to see it happen on our campus, which is so loving and accepting for the most part. It really just took me by surprise.”

Hall said hate speech is a national problem and that when divisive rhetoric is highlighted in the public sphere more frequently, people are more emboldened to partake in verbal abuse.

“It’s not OK to say those things and the best thing we can do is talk about it,” Hall said. “We need to take it to another level of really having

“

I think that when something like this happens, it's important to realize that it's not just an attack on Jewish people.

It's an attack on all religious people, all people of faith. logan hall student

these conversations about how hurtful hateful rhetoric can be and about the impact that it has not on just Jewish students but on everybody.”

Harris echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that words have power.

Some students, though, are concerned that people on Pepperdine’s campus are not acknowledging and discussing acts of hatred, especially the shooting.

Junior Marlee Hewitt felt she understood the repercussions of the shooting primarily because of her close relations to members of the Jewish community, noting that she does not personally follow any one religion. “[The shooting was] kind of a shock, but honestly at the same time it’s sad that I feel kind of numb to that sort of thing now because it happens so often,” Hewitt said. “I think it hit closer to home because I do have

such good family friends that are Jewish.”

Hewitt said she hasn’t heard many people on campus talking about the shooting and doesn’t think it has impacted Pepperdine as heavily as other places in the nation. Hewitt said she thinks the shooting has a smaller impact on Christians at Pepperdine than the Jewish community because it wasn’t a direct attack on a Christian group.

“People need to know ‘Hey, this actually isn’t okay and this shouldn’t be happening’ because I don’t think that’s necessarily been addressed,” Hewitt said. “I think that in general, the community needs to be more aware of these types of things.”

Hall said he hopes people of all faiths can recognize the importance of such acts of hatred.

“I think that when something like this happens, it’s important to realize that it’s not just an attack on Jewish people,” Hall said. “It’s an attack on all religious people, all people of faith.”

Senior SGA President Austin Welch wrote in an email that he was saddened by the shooting and believes it is up to all religions to come together to condemn violence and hate.

People must combat hatred with acts of love, especially towards those that they may not care for, and by standing up when they see injustice, Harris said.

“One of the biggest precepts in Jewish culture is the notion of Tikkun Olam,” Harris said. “It’s literally ‘to repair the world.’ We have a mandate to leave the world better than we found it and engage in acts of kindness and charity … Everybody could be like that. It doesn’t have to be a massive action. It could be taking someone to lunch because they look lonely, and then you’ve done something good and it has value.”

Despite the recent acts of hatred, Bortman said she remains an optimist.

“I just think that 99 percent of the people are wonderful and have good intentions,” Bortman said. “I can’t live in fear over the small percentage.”

Bortman also encouraged all students, faculty and staff to speak to the Counseling Center if they are in need of support, while Barton said that the Office of the Chaplain is also available for anyone who may be experiencing spiritual struggles at this time.

RYAN.HAR DING@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Pepp Legacy Partners host Fall Festival ally ar mst r o n g staf f w r i ter The Pepperdine Legacy Partner’s annual Fall Festival on Nov. 2 was their first fundraiser since their recent name change from the Associated Women of Pepperdine. They raised just over $3,000, according to Pepperdine Legacy Partners Executive Coordinator Tami Williamson.

The festival featured goods from Noonday Collection, jewelry and clothing from The Jool Guy and jewelry from Roxie’s Closet, along with several other vendors.

Shoppers could purchase a variety of items ranging from silverware to baked goods to antiques, with an emphasis on holiday gifts. Volunteers for Pep-

perdine Legacy Partners worked as greeters and cashiers, assisting students, faculty and other members of the Malibu community.

“The Fall Festival provides a festive and convenient way for staff, faculty and students to get a head start on their holiday shopping while supporting a student-focused and faith-focused organization,” Pepperdine Legacy Partners President Lydia Folkerts said. “What great fun to see people from all areas of the campus search the tables for treasures and unique gifts.”

The festival raises money for Pepperdine Legacy Partners’ $5,000 Helen Young Scholarship, given to a select number of incoming freshmen

and transfer students who are active members of the Church of Christ.

Students receiving the scholarship are called Helen Young Scholars to “honor the profound impact of its beloved founder,” according to the Pepperdine Legacy Partners website. Students must reapply each year to be considered for funding.

Teacher Education professor and Pepperdine Legacy Partners volunteer Carrie Wall spoke to the importance of the public’s donations in supporting Christian students.

“People contribute and they are very generous, and of course this year we are also creating a scholarship to honor Andy and Debby Benton,” Wall said.

The Andy and Debby Benton Endowed Scholarship is a newly added scholarship to the program. According to Pepperdine’s Crowdfunding website, the Pepperdine Legacy Partners hope to raise $100,000 for this scholarship commemorating President Benton’s time and service at the university.

“Our organization is honored to be able to provide even more scholarships to qualified students through this campaign which honors a beloved couple who continue to be faithful champions of Pepperdine Legacy Partners,” Folkerts said.

Regarding this new scholarship, sophomore and Pepperdine Legacy Partners volunteer Jona-

thon Cottrill spoke positively about its effect on Pepperdine students.

“I think it’s a great scholarship to honor Andrew Benton and what he’s done for the Pepperdine community,” Cottrill said. “I’m really excited to see the scholarship take off this year.”

Freshman Susannah Gallup said she appreciated the inexpensive prices of items at the festival.

“They have cool jewelry for $2 or $3 and rings for $1,” Gallup said.

“There’s even a Pepperdine shirt for $3, [which is less expensive] compared to the bookstore.”

Pepperdine Legacy Partners recently underwent a name change from the Associated Women of Pepperdine in

order to “better reflect the ongoing collective efforts of both women and men, partnering together to continue George Pepperdine’s legacy of equipping students to live purposeful Christian lives as servant-minded leaders throughout the world,” according to the Pepperdine Legacy Partners website.

To support Pepperdine Legacy Partner’s mission, individuals can gain membership status, become a volunteer, participate in local events, serve on the National Board or donate on their website.

For more information about the Benton scholarship, visit Impact.Pepperdine.edu/Bentons.

AL LY.AR M STR ONG@PEPPER DINE.EDU

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Psi Chi increases on-campus presence P E P P E R DIN E GR A P H IC M E DIA | N E W S | NOV E MB E R 8 , 20 1 8

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Pepperdine Psychology Honors Society, Psi Chi, is participating in and planning events that advocate for mental health awareness to increase their presence on campus.

Senior Daisy Jauregui, Psi Chi’s president, said she noticed the club’s lack of on-campus involvement and decided to take on the role of changing that, using her passion for psychology and helping others to plan more events.

“This is my first year and it’s our attempt to branch out more and be more involved in terms of mental health on campus,” Jauregui said.

Psi Chi is a International Nation Honor Society for graduate and undergraduate students of psychology that started in 1929. They began to increase their presence on Pepperdine’s campus with the help of the Student Wellness Advisory Board, or SWAB, a new pilot program in charge of planning events associated with the Health Center, the Counseling Center and Title IX, senior Hannah Roberts, SWAB co-president, said.

“I reached out to SWAB and was able to get that kind of communication going and say, ‘Hey, we are here if you ever need anything,’” Jauregui said.

Roberts said Psi Chi is invited to assist in any event and is welcome to collaborate with Healthy

Minds, the mental health department of SWAB, on different projects.

“They are super excited about it and organized and ready to be involved in things and ready to revamp themselves,” Roberts said.

Psi Chi has been working with Healthy Minds and ran their own booth at the Stick or Treat event Thursday, Oct. 25, Jauregui said. For this Halloween- and carnival-themed flu shot clinic, their booth included the modern sensation of slime-making to advocate for stress reduction and self care. “[The slime] helps promote the Sensory Meridian Response, it helps relieve stress, it helps with anxiety and just promoting a moment of happiness,” Jauregui said.

“That feeling gives you a break from everything so you can release a little bit of stress.”

Psi Chi members are expressing their support in the planning of this event and the desire to increase the club’s activity, junior Leah Taylor, Psi Chi ICC representative, said.

“I think it is important for Psi Chi to be involved in events like these because our mission as a society is to help promote mental health on campus,” Taylor said. “This is a perfect opportunity to do just that by using fun activities at the same time.”

Taylor said they hope to take their involvement with mental health on

Photo courtesy of Pepperdine University Raising Awareness | The members of Psi Chi, Pepperdine’s Psychology Honor Society, work to educate their peers on mental health issues while also connecting students to places where they can get help. campus a step beyond Stick or Treat and have expressed the desire to plan their own club convocation series for students who are interested.

“We hope to hold a club convo in which individuals can learn to cope with stress and anxiety regarding school and other aspects and how to take care of themselves mentally,” Taylor said.

Along with participating in these events to increase involvement, Psi Chi also wants these events and their increasing presence to help erase the negative stigma often associated with mental health and mental health disorders, Jauregui said.

People are often more vocal about disorders like anxiety and depression, but other disorders, like bipolar disorder, still

have a negative stigma, Jauregui said.

Jauregui said Psi Chi has the goal of not only increasing the awareness of these issues through slime-making and convo, but also of making sure that people take care of themselves by finding a community and people that understand them on campus.

“I think it’s important for Psi Chi to help advocate for mental health awareness on campus and the concept of a healthy mind because college students are known to put themselves under a lot of stress regarding academics, resume building and working leadership positions in clubs,” Taylor said.

Taylor said it is also important for Psi Chi to erase the negative stigma

by helping students realize that mental health is just as important as physical health.

This increased awareness for mental health can only be done if the overall club participation is increased, which is something that SWAB is eager to help Psi Chi with, Roberts said.

“Club participation here is just so lax, so that way these clubs can be supported by us through our people and our resources, and then they can be empowered to go and continue that,” Roberts said.

Roberts said it is extremely important to work to increase involvement and presence on campus now in order to keep these important clubs alive after people like Jauregui graduate.

“We can make sure that when we leave, these really important clubs that do so much for the campus are gonna stay there,” Roberts said. “Everyone we have talked to this year is just kind of sad about the lack of membership, but I can really tell that they are really ready to just drive straight in.”

Jauregui said this is only the start of Psi Chi’s advancement and revamping toward increased involvement and of the mental health awareness advancement on campus.

“We are still at the roots in terms of this movement, but as a whole we are very much blessed to be a part of it,” Jauregui said.

JIL L IAN.JOHNSON@PEPPER DINE.EDU

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PERSPECTIVES STAFF LIST M anag i ng Ed i to r m a r i a va l e n te So c i al M ed i a M anag er c h a n n a ste i n m e tz 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 sava n n a h w e l c h c o py c hi ef rya n h a r d i n g New s Ed i to r Madeleine Carr new s s eni o r r ep o r ter s m a ry c ate l o n g nicola wenz Ass i stant New s Ed i to r Ally Armstrong | Staff Artist k a i yu w o n g New s As si s tant Da ly B r i ste r S p o r ts Ed i to r g r ac e w o o d P er s p ec ti v es Ed i to r ga b r i e l l e m ath ys quires the following matter their political af- Jews, Christians, Musfrom each party: a filiation, race or religion. lims and Hindus. It is As si s tant P er s p ec ti v es serious exchange of In the words of Mahatimportant to remember Ed i to r views, focus on the ma Gandhi, “A coward is that as a whole, human caroline archer issues rather than on incapable of exhibiting beings are good. They L i fe & Ar ts Ed i to r the individual(s) espous- love; it is the prerogative seek positive change; C a r o l i n e e d wa r d s ing them, a defense of of the brave.” This is our they just have very difl i fe & ar ts seni o r interpretations using chance as a nation to ferent ideas about how r ep o r ter verified information, display such bravery, to to achieve it. ella gonzalez and thoughtful listenlove one another, even if The best way to unas si s tant L i fe & ar ts ing to what others say, we do not agree. derstand one another is ed i to r according to an article People can have stark- by engaging in conversaH a i dyn H a rv e y by the Association of ly opposing ideologies tion in a respectful and L i fe & Ar ts As si s tant American Colleges and but ultimately most of constructive way. Folks A n a sta ssi a Ko sti n Universities. us want the same things can do this by seeking P ho to Ed i to r On Tuesday, Oct. 30, for our country: ecoout opportunities to Kaelin mendez the Pepperdine commu- nomic prosperity, civil understand opposing as si s tant p ho to nity came together in a rights and liberties, a opinions, whether ed i to r s prayer service hosted by solid education for our by partnering with a Sa m a n th a Fi n n e ga n the Office of the Chapchildren and security. different person for a m i l a n l o i ac o n o lain and the Glazer Insti- Individuals have very group project, attending Ar t Ed i to r tute for Jewish Studies different ideas about a speech by someone c a i tl i n r oa r k “to remember and pray how to achieve these of a different religious C o py ed i to r s for those who lost loved things and that is what or political affiliation, k i l e y d i ste l r ath ones and the commudrives us apart. It is or simply asking your pi pe r w r i g h t nities most affected,” important to remember friends in a casual way Adv er ti s i ng m anag er Connie Horton, vice that the survival of evil why they believe what b e n h u ya r d president of student afin this world depends they do. The really D i r ec to r o f P ep p er d i ne fairs, wrote in an email. upon our reaction to it. proactive may even join G r ap hi c M ed i a The prayer service was “An eye for an eye will Student Government E l i z a b e th Sm i th a place to remember the make the whole world Association, the Graphic As si s tant D i r ec to r O f victims as people, rather blind,” Gandhi said. or other organizations P ep p er d i ne G r ap hi c than to politicize their It is also critical to that harbor diversity of M ed i a deaths. remember that the thought on campus.

The objective should actions of a few individIf we listen to one anCo u r te n ay Sta l l i n g s

STAFF EDITORIAL Return to Civil discourse 11 people were killed at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh when Robert Bowers opened fire, making anti-Semitic statements during the shooting.

The shooting is the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in United States history.

The synagogue shooting is only one of the many shootings that have inundated news feeds. The shooting came a day after the arrest of Cesar Sayac, the Florida man who sent pipe bombs to critics of President Donald Trump. It is clear that there is an insidious infection of hate and violence permeating our nation, and it is easy to get caught up in passionate rhetoric and fall into the trap of partisan divides that continue to plague our nation.

However, during this time of tragic loss, it is vital that society comes together to look beyond partisan divides and differences, to confront these critical issues and what is at stake for humanity.

How can and should

society overcome partisanship in order to come together as humans?

When President Trump visited Pittsburgh on Tuesday, Oct. 27, in response to the attack, vociferous debate followed. While protestors amassed to dispute his visit, they were, as a New York Times article reported, united in their grief. While one could interpret the protests about Trump’s visit as indicative of partisan divides in the nation, they also transcend partisan divides and show that politics cannot unite individuals at all. Rather, what can unite us is our shared humanness and earnest desire to advocate for change.

Part of ameliorating this problem will mean having civil discourse about contentious issues, a discourse that can start by sharing in one another’s grief. Civil discourse is defined by the US Supreme Court as “robust, honest, frank and constructive dialogue and deliberation that seeks to advance the public interest.”

Civil discourse re-

be to humanize one another as individuals in crisis. The violence begets violence. This is a time to listen and understand our peers, no

uals do not reflect the sentiments of the whole.

Radicals who commit violence are not representative of these groups: Democrats, Republicans,

other, especially in light of the national tragedy in Pittsburgh, we can find comfort instead of controversy.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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Letters to the Editor must bear the writer’s name, signature, class standing, major, address and phone number (except in some circumstances determined appropriate by the Graphic). Letters must be fewer than 300 words and will be edited for syntax, grammar and brevity. Letters can be mailed to student publications or emailed to peppgraphicmedia@ gmail.com

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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Caitlin Roark | Art Editor

Graphic Pepperdine University 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy. Malibu, CA 90263 310-506-4311

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MISSION STATEMENT “Pepperdine Graphic Media (PGM) is an editorially independent student news organization that focuses on Pepperdine University and the surrounding communities. PGM consists of the digital and print Graphic, a variety of special publications, GNews, Currents Magazine, social media platforms and an Advertising Department. These platforms serve the community with news, opinion, contemporary information and a public forum for discussion.

PGM strengthens students for purpose, service and leadership by developing their skills in writing, editing and publication production, by providing a vehicle to integrate and implement their liberal arts education, and by developing students’ critical thinking through independent editorial judgment. PGM participates in Pepperdine’s Christian mission and affirmations, especially the pursuit of truth, excellence and freedom in a context of public service. Although PGM reports about Pepperdine University and coordinates with curricula in journalism and other disciplines, it is a student (not a University) news organization. Views expressed are diverse and, of course, do not correspond to all views of any University board, administration, faculty, staff, student or other constituency.”

NOV E M B E R 8, 2 0 1 8 | 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

Use 7R travel gene for good A n as ta s s i a kostin Li f e & A r t s A s si ssta n t “I’m in love with cities I’ve never been to and people I’ve never met,” wrote Melody Troung.

It’s not just an “itch” to travel.

It’s a raging fire, building up with every minute spent stagnant — stagnant as the soul desperately tries to push out of the prison of bones and flesh and cross the water to a different land.

This fire spreads and manifests into a thermonuclear explosion, causing one to seek an escape from reality, because “reality” is too vanilla, but travel is a spice market in the heart of Dubai, Istanbul or Delhi — a myriad of flavors and scents with people spilling their love as spices spill from their baskets.

If an urge to explore seems characteristic of one’s identity, the root cause may lie within a person’s genome. A student possessing the DRD4-7R gene may realize they want to take part in one of Pepperdine’s many international programs or broaden their perspectives in terms of experiences or the people they surround themselves with.

Those few 20 percent of people who have the gene may experience this restlessness and put less emphasis on settling down or staying in one place.

Instead of trying to suppress it, they should strive to embrace it.

A person of this character might realize they have been living mundane and predictable lives. Finding the roots of one’s restlessness can ultimately lead to a life of greater fulfillment. In turn, the 7R gene carrier may inspire others by educating them of the gene’s existence, and allow others to live to their full potential — consisting of more exploration and innovation that will better society for all.

The gene is associated with dopamine levels in the brain and causes those with the 7R gene to have increased levels of curiosity and restlessness, according to a 2013 analysis done by David Dobbs for National Geographic.

Humans explore untouched areas — geographic and academic — and pursue innovation. It’s why some individuals go so far as to navigate to the farthest poles, reach the highest peaks, advance technology and even fly off to explore other planets. On an individual level, it’s why some people possess inner drives to develop, explore and be the change-makers that shape society.

This lack of stability in the lives of 7R gene carriers ties the gene to migration, and in turn, travel. The gene was found more common in present-day migratory cultures that pioneer migratory waves, according to a 1999 study led by Chuansheng Chen of the University of California, Irvine.

Ancestors from Africa who migrated longer distances had more individuals carrying the gene as well. An example is the spread of Polynesians across the Pacific — one of the most remarkable movements that took modern humans out of Africa, across East Asia and around the globe. Polynesian migration was

ga br i e l l e m at h ys pe r sp ec t ives ed it o r

The world is full of diverse cultures that bring with them different styles of communication.

Sometimes words have different meanings across cultures, and a hand gesture can be friendly or offensive depending on who is viewing it.

Students should be open to unfamiliar communication styles so they can connect to others more successfully and become better communicators.

People have to interact with others who have different communication styles than themselves on a daily basis, since gender as well as cultural, regional and ethnic backgrounds shape how a person communicates. In the future, students will work alongside so many people who have different ways of communicating.

Some co-workers may interact through email more than in person, openly give direct criticism or only speak when directly addressed. If students aren’t willing to seek understanding of their differences, they will create barriers between themselves and

Use Pepp support systems

caroline archer A s s i s ta n t P e r s p e c t i v e s Editor

Caitlin Roark | Art Editor one of the first and one of the fastest movements in history, with genes playing a huge role.

Luckily, the mission of Pepperdine’s International Programs is to help students emerge as global citizens with new cultural perspectives and diverse relationships. Utilizing these opportunities, and making decisions such as choosing more extreme locations in terms of culture, such as Shanghai versus a European program, can be the first step to finding out how far one is willing to go in terms of personal growth.

Embracing the 7R gene can also help students find like-minded people to surround themselves with. This can especially be helpful abroad, when, in preparation for travel breaks, groups can often be split into those who travel out-of-country versus staying within it.

A traveler carrying the 7R gene may possess an insatiable desire for learning about other cultures, feel the most comfortable in discomfort and utilize every spare minute looking up flight deals. Possessing the gene allows them to differentiate themselves from others while simultaneously finding those with similar motivations that share the gene. After all, it is this unique trait that provides possibilities for unique contributions to the world.

If a student already feels compelled to travel, tied to an uncontrollable urge that flows through the body as a plane flows so gracefully through the sky on the way to its destination, they shouldn’t sweat it — it’s in their genes.

NASTASSIA.KOSTIN@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Learn communication methods their coworkers.

People need to try to accommodate others to work better together, according to the Communication Accommodation Theory. For people who are from different cultures or who stand at differing levels of authority, this means that they must learn to respectfully interact with one another in ways that they would not naturally do. One might start using more hand gestures or speak more quietly, mirroring the other person’s style of communication to help that person be more comfortable.

Knowing other styles of communication also helps students get information across more effectively. By understanding what others around them need, they can address those desires, allowing people who they’re interacting with to be more receptive.

“To get your message across, it’s critical that you construct your messages in a way that you can be heard. Understanding communication styles accelerates your progress in this area,” wrote Lisa Liszcz of Liszcz Consulting in “Three Ways Understanding Communication Styles Can Benefit You,” published Sept. 6, 2016 by LinkedIn. Communication is a two-way street, and those who take the first step toward understanding

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Caitlin Roark | Art Editor others will have many people willing to do the same for them. People want to be listened to, and when they feel like others are giving them that attention, they are willing to return it.

“The secret to success ... is to be flexible enough to understand and appreciate others’ styles,” wrote David G. Jensen in his study “Behavioral Style: Understanding Communication Styles Can Advance Your Relationships — and Your Career Prospects,” published Mar. 6, 2001 by the American Association for the Advancement of

Science.

If people see others as different and don’t make the effort to reach out, the world will become stagnant. So many people are only willing to stay within their comfort zones, and they are missing out on the amazing people they can befriend and groundbreaking accomplishments they can achieve.

When entering a new environment or encountering a group of new people, stop and listen to them. Observe the way they try to get information across. Look at things from their per-

spectives.

By trying to expand their understanding of communication styles, students will open themselves to amazing opportunities to establish new relationships and understand other cultures than their own. Taking those steps for others is a truly rewarding experience, and students who can do this well will set themselves apart from their peers in their careers and interpersonal relationships.

GABBY.M ATHYS@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Life at Pepperdine can be very good, but it can also be difficult. The two are not mutually exclusive. In order to avoid falling into a rut of academic or emotional struggle, students should be proactive in taking advantage of the support systems that Pepperdine offers. By seeking help, students are making an investment toward a fuller life.

In a society that idolizes independence, a fear of seeming weak can prevent students from seeking counseling, tutoring or other forms of help.

Stigma is both pervasive and paralyzing, according to Dana Gionta’s article “The Stigma of Therapy,” published June 23, 2008

by Psychology Today.

However, there has been a nationwide increase in students utilizing resources on their campuses, according to Katie Reilly’s article “Record Numbers of College Students Are Seeking Treatment for Depression and Anxiety — But Schools Can’t Keep Up,” published March 19

by TIME. Students and professors are increasingly aware that support is necessary and struggle doesn’t have to isolate.

At Pepperdine specifically, the Counseling Center is an incredible resource that students should utilize. With high-quality, free services, students shouldn’t hesitate to visit the office.

Overall, the need for counseling is becoming more widely accepted.

Students should ride this culture shift and seek help without judgment. Emotional burdens are not biodegradable; like plastic, they won’t go away on their own. By being proactive in seeking help, students set themselves up to have fuller lives.

Another resource that Pepperdine provides for students is ample academic support through the Student Success Center.

Tutoring, academic advising and professors themselves all come together to enhance students’ academic performances.

By attending tutoring sessions, students gain accountability. The commitment to show up to a tutoring session keeps students on track.

By intentionally dedicating time to improving in a tough class, students place themselves on a trajectory for success.

Feeling supported is important. No one wants to slip through the cracks, and with the resources available at Pepperdine, no one should. The accessibility of help on campus is something that sets Pepperdine apart. Students should use the scaffolding that Pepperdine provides in order to grow to the best of their ability.

C AR OL INE.AR C HER @PEPPER DINE.EDU

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LIFE & ARTS

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Photos courtesy of Fabric Media Art for All | Fabric Media hosted a Nashville Writer’s Round at their Venice studio Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. The performance consisted of country-pop artists Runson Willis III, Jenny Teator and Sheridan Gates who took turns singing their songs and sharing their stories.

Nashville Writer’s Round comes to Venice ashl ey chavez s taf f write r A Nashville Writer’s Round is a group of singer-songwriters who get together to take turns playing their songs and telling the audience the story behind them.

This unique Tennessee experience came to Venice, California on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. when country-pop artists Jenny Teator, Sheridan Gates and special guest Runson Willis III performed at Fabric Studios. Fabric Media runs the studio.

“When I first moved to Nashville and learned about a Writer’s Round, I didn’t think it was very exciting, but now that I’ve performed in one I understand how special they can be,” Teator said.

Fabric Media is a creative communication and business acceleration, according to their website. They have created a creative space for performers to come and feel as if they are a part of the community through their venue in Venice, known as Fabric Studios. Their space made for a small, intimate setting that was key for the acoustic guitar night.

“This made for a more personal show and better understanding of the music,” junior Juliana DiMeglio said.

Teator said she has been singing and performing since she was a child in St. Louis, Missouri, but later moved to Nashville to pursue her music interests.

She was previously a part of a band, Jenny Teator and the Fevers, but now performs solo. All of the original songs she performed on Thursday night were filled with spunk.

“It’s nice to get back to our roots,” Teator said. “No band, just us. You can real-

ly hear the music in this space.”

Gates said she has also had a strong interest in music since she was a kid in New Jersey. Her journey took her to New York and later Nashville in an effort to pursue the music. Several of the songs performed on Thursday night gave the audience a sneak peek into her debut, self-titled EP, which has been recently released.

“When I first passed through Nashville, I felt a true sense of clarity that this was where I was meant to be,” Gates said about her journey.

Willis was the third performer of the night and brought his talent on the steel guitar. He has been performing for over ten years and gathers a lot of his inspiration from Isaac Hayes and Willie Nelson, according to his website. DiMeglio said he had a very distinct voice and sound which translated well throughout the show.

Teater and Gates have been on a 2 ½ week tour performing together throughout the west coast. The show at Fabric Studios was the last stop on their tour before going back to Nashville, and Willis was their special guest for this specific show. All of the artists were able to chime in and contribute to the songs and performances for each other.

Teater and Gates said they have been performing most of their shows in people’s homes, which makes for a more intimate setting. They said they are able to accomplish this through friends, family and word of mouth.

Teator and Gates are now headed back to Nashville and will continue to pursue the music and wherever it takes them.

A S H L E Y.CH AV E Z @P E P P E RD I N E . E D U

Hitting the High Note | Teator and Gates sing songs throughout the event, with Runson Willis III occasionally joining them. Teator sang original songs that were filled with spunk as she played along on her guitar.

Southern Charm | Teator and Gates sell their merchandise, which includes t-shirts and CDs, during the event. The musicians have been performing together for two and a half weeks on the West Coast, mainly at people’s homes for a more intimate setting, but are now headed back to Nashville.

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Photos Courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures Photo Courtesy of Fox Searchlight Pictures

Photos courtesy of Annapurna Pictures Wild West | John C. Reilly (right) and Joaquin Phoenix (left) play Eli and Charlie Sisters, two wayward assassins in ‘The Sisters Brothers.’

The film, directed by Jacques Audiard and based on Patrick DeWitt’s novel, explores brotherhood, virtue and destiny in the new take on the western film.

Review: ‘The Sisters Brothers’ reinvents the Western haidy n harvey life and art s as s i s ta n t e d i to r

Though it seems impossible, the gun-slinging, horse-riding, whiskey-drinking period piece, “The Sisters Brothers,” is unlike any Western that has come before it. Director Jacques Audiard achieves a career-best with this film.

“The Sisters Brothers” is one of the best movies to grace theaters this year. Based on the novel by Patrick DeWitt, and directed by Audiard, the film stars John C. Reilly, Joaquin Phoenix, Jake Gyllenhaal and Riz Ahmed, who bring impeccable performances to the table.

“The Sisters Brothers” tells the story of Charlie Sisters (Phoenix) and Eli Sisters (Reilly), two wayward assassins in the 1850s. The brothers and business partners leave a path of destruction behind them as they pursue their next victim, Hermann Kermit Warm (Ahmed) down the West Coast.

They’re professionals, but this job is unlike anything they’ve faced before. The brothers are forced to evaluate the purpose of their life’s work, which is a question that will leave them forever changed, no matter their answer.

It is clear Audiard has spent years honing his craft.

He masterfully guides both his characters and audience through a journey filled with

humor, drama and everything in between. Not a moment of this film falls short of perfection. Every scene, character and line is perfectly woven together to tell a well-crafted story.

“The Sisters Brothers” is unafraid, asking big questions about morality, happiness and peace while taking time to marvel at the little things in life. Audiard explores how people at the time dealt with everything from murder to the invention of flushing toilets.

The film can’t be reduced to just a comedy or just a drama.

Audiard created something transcendent of genre, delivering a well-rounded, full bodied film. With great highs and deep lows, Audiard argues that peace was never meant for this world.

Charlie and Eli stumble down a West Coast undergoing as much change as the characters themselves. As dirt roads turn into roaring cities, the brothers grow to match their surroundings. Charlie is an unrestrained drunk, and Eli is a sensitive pushover.

Together, they’re dysfunctional and extremely deadly, but they’re also lovable, even charming at times.

When the brothers finally encounter John Morris (Gyllenhaal) and Warm, they’re forced to confront themes of virtue and destiny, disguised under the veneer of the Cali-

fornia gold rush. Each character is vivid and unique. They walk, talk and think differently from each other. Their differences bring them great friendship and ultimately great demise. Watching the characters bend and mold under the pressure of their circumstances creates a transformative and thought-provoking experience for the audience.

Reilly, Phoenix, Gyllenhaal and Ahmed are masters in their craft, leaving behind a long history of timeless performances. “The Sisters Brothers” unites these great artists, claiming its title as a modern masterpiece.

“The Sisters Brothers” works because it emulates real life. In reality, there is no black and white. Life is more complicated than that. “The Sisters Brothers” is nuanced, just like the world we live in. It doesn’t shy away from tragedy, but it doesn’t turn from hope either.

“The Sisters Brothers” is a great film with an even better aftertaste. Audiard took a tired and worn genre and created something completely new.

The film is a career highlight for every artist involved. “The Sisters Brothers” is playing in select theaters now and hopefully will continue to make an appearance in the upcoming awards season.

HAIDY N.HARVEY @ PEPPERDINE.EDU

Family Ties | Actors Reilly and Phoenix team up as brothers and assassins in Audiard’s newest film.

A New Frontier | Eli Sisters (left) and Charlie pursue their victim, Hermann Kermit Warm, played by Riz Ahmed (right center) and encounter John Morris, played by Jake Gyllenhaal (far right). The film is more than its Western setting; it questions morality and happiness along the way.

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ARTIST CORNER: KENNEDI RAE SYPHAX

Photos courtesy of Kennedi Rae Syphax Capturing Moments | Senior Kennedi Rae Syphax captures images of old and historic cemeteries. Syphax found her niche as a photographer while living in Washington D.C., where she documented historic cemeteries for her blog. anna milton staff writ e r Senior Kennedi Rae Syphax said she has embodied a creative spirit since she was a child.

Artistic expression has taken on many forms in Syphax’s life, including creative writing and poetry. However, Syphax has particular interest in capturing moments through photography.

She wrote in an email that she began to take her art more seriously as she got older and took a photography class in high school.

“My senior year of high school, I started freelancing to make extra money, and it took on a life of its own,” Syphax wrote.

Syphax wrote that she loves taking photos to show the many ways a single image can be interpreted.

“Photography is an art because it requires the ability to be able to look at something and then translate what you’re seeing and all of the feelings you have about it into a still image,” Syphax wrote. “It takes patience and effort.”

Syphax’s favorite photo she has ever taken explains how powerful a photograph can truly be.

“On a mission trip a few years ago, I took a picture of my pastor and her husband, and I think it’s the most meaningful photo because it fully demonstrates not only the support that they give each other, but I think it illustrates the kind of welcoming and loving people they are,” Syphax wrote. “Their love together and separately is a powerful kind of love and you can feel that when you look at the picture.”

As a busy student, Syphax wrote that she doesn’t always have enough time to dedicate to her art. However, she still finds a way to channel the same creativity she had as a child.

“I remember always drawing, writing and taking pictures of things as a kid,” Syphax wrote. “As I’ve gotten older, some of that has died off, but I like to look at it as if all of that was inspiration for the different ways I incorporate creativity into my daily life.”

Syphax wrote that her photography has slowed down since being at Pepperdine, but she has been able to create some of her best work yet. After being abroad, Syphax said she was able to rekindle her passion for capturing images.

“After I went abroad and then moved back to Washington D.C., I thought it would be interesting to document some of the historical cemeteries in the area through my blog,” Syphax wrote. “I was able to shoot my best series yet.”

Syphax has captured many different types of images while being a photographer. However, her favorite thing to photograph is an old and historic cemetery.

“The artistry and creativity of old school monument-making is something I appreciate greatly,” Syphax wrote. “The quietness of the space also makes it easy to concentrate on what you’re doing.”

Syphax’s interest in photographing cemeteries also translates into her career plans after graduating from Pepperdine in the spring.

“I will be moving back to Washington D.C. in the summer to go to mortuary school, get my license and work at one the most prestigious and oldest funeral homes in the D.C. metropolitan area,” Syphax wrote.

Syphax will continue to develop her passion for art in everything she does, no matter what her job title is.

“Funerals require creativity, too and I hope to utilize my artistic eye while assisting the families I will meet,” Syphax wrote.

Syphax hopes to continue her freelance photography business while in Washington, D.C. and working on her blog, Dearly Departed, as a creative platform. You can find Syphax’s work on her blog as she continues to grow her portfolio.

ANNA.MILTON@PEPPERDINE.EDU

Photos Courtesy of Becca Brackett

Snapshot | Syphax shares her images and stories of cemeteries through a series on her blog, which she said was her best one yet as she explored historic cemeteries.

Hope and Death| Syphax’s interest in photographing cemeteries adds to her future plans after Pepperdine. Syphax said she plans to move back to Washington D.C. to go to mortuary school and work at “one of the most prestigious and oldest funeral homes in the D.C. and metropolitan area.”

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PEPP E R DINE GR A P HIC M E DIA | L IFE A N D A RTS | N OV E MB E R 8 , 20 1 8

Photos courtesy of Kara Tyler

Book Worm | Sophomore Kara Tyler is in the process of writing her debut poetry book, which she plans to release in spring 2020.

Tyler said she has 50 poems, but plans to have between 100 and 150 peoms mixed with photography and illustrations in her book.

Pepp student works on debut poetry book c ar o l ine edwards life and arts editor While college students try to avoid reading books outside of class, sophomore Kara Tyler spends her free time writing one.

Tyler said she has been in the process of writing her debut poetry book over the past year. What started as journaling slowly became a passion for writing poetry.

“Poetry was just kind of the way I reworked my thoughts into something that I thought was just beautiful and not just so sad, and I could always put a positive spin on it,” Tyler said.

Tyler started at Pepperdine as a journalism major, but after deciding she didn’t want to write for news, she switched to liberal arts with an emphasis in fine arts.

“I’ve always wanted to be super artistic, and I guess whenever I tell people I’m studying fine arts, they’re like, ‘Oh, you must be really good at art,” Tyler said. “I want to be good at art, so I figure if I study it I’ll get better at it, but poetry was always something that came more naturally to me, and I was naturally more talented at that. I love painting and all that kind of stuff, but poetry is just the most accessible and easiest to really get my hands dirty with.”

Tyler said she started working on self-publishing her book over a year ago and currently has 50 poems. She said she sits down and writes twice a week and wants to have 100 or 150 poems, mixed with illustrations and some of her photography. She said her original publication goal was at the end of the year, but now she’s planning for spring 2020 because she said she wants to be proud of her work.

“I just really want it to be organically me,” Tyler said. “I’m trying not to ask too many other people to help me with

it. I just want it to be ‘Look at who I am.’”

Tyler said she started journaling in elementary school, which led her to turn her old entries into poetry during her freshman year of high school.

“Being able to turn [my journal entries] into poetry for me was almost symbolic because turning those pains into something beautiful can help other people and reach other people, which I thought was really awesome,” Tyler said.

Tyler said writing down her feelings helped her deal with her emotions growing up. “[I was] just going through stuff when I was little,” Tyler said. “I think I didn’t really know how to deal with the issues I was going through, and the only thing that really helped was putting that on paper. I feel like it was just a cool experience to write something down. It didn’t exist before until I put in the paper. It was a tangible thing and not just a thought in my head. I could see it and reread it and rework it.”

Her poetry has evolved from residing a poetry notebook to publishing her pieces on her website. She said she was nervous about publishing and showing people her work, but hearing the positive feedback inspired her to continue sharing her poems.

“People were messaging me, ‘Thank you for posting that,’’ Tyler said. “That actually really resonated with me.

Whenever I got even a couple of comments like that, it just pushed me to keep going because there is like a big fear of judgment I think when you do things like that because, especially when you’re that age, no one really does.”

One of these poems was “A Letter to my Body.” Tyler said poetry allowed her to feel more confident in herself and in her body.

“It’s really good to be introspective to yourself, realizing that body confidence isn’t even just about your body;

it’s just about who you are as a person and letting that shine,” Tyler said. “I think the prettiest people are the most competent people and the ones that radiate light onto others. I know that sounds corny, but I think it’s so valid, and so I’ve always just wanted to be a source of light onto other people.”

Tyler said she isn’t sure what she wants to do after she leaves Pepperdine.

She said she wants to do “something that helps people,” either through social work or at a women’s shelter. Even in her poetry, she said she twists darker subjects into something positive.

“A lot of [my poems] deal with mental illness,” Tyler said. “I wrote one recently about my anxiety and a lot of dark things, but I always try to like the twist on it that it’s not all that bad. I can listen to so much dark poetry, and it’s beautiful, but I want to be able to put something out that has more of a positive impact.”

Although most of Tyler’s poems deal with pain, she said she struggles to find inspiration, which is why she pushed back the publication for her book.

“I have to be genuinely and organically inspired by something to write about it, at least for it to have meaning,” Tyler said.

Tyler said she chose poetry as her art form because it’s her genuine voice and emotions.

“I think [poetry is a] direct way to look into someone’s thoughts and what they’re really thinking,” Tyler said. “Whereas a lot of other art forms are more open-ended, poetry is pretty straightforward. I think it’s cool, though, because you can still interpret it to relate to your life, but what they’re saying is pretty specific to their poems.”

Tyler can be found sharing her poems on her website and different art forms on her Instagram.

Write It Off | Tyler poses for a picture, taken on her film camCAROLINE.EDWARDS@PEPPERDINE.EDU era, another one of her hobbies.

Wise Words | Tyler said she started writing poetry in high school as a way to deal with her emotions, including heartbreak as written about in “4:16 a.m.” Tyler said she writes about dark subjects, but tries to put a positive spin on her poems about heartbreak and mental illness.

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PE P P E R DINE GR A P HIC M E DIA | S PORTS | NOV E MB E R 8 , 20 1 8

Seaver Films docuseries chronicles 2018 NCAA Tournament loss

this victory was just the first step toward their end goal.

“We’re here to do our jobs,” senior Maddy Roh said. “Were playing for a title that is really hard to get and I hope everybody understands that we’re just not a bunch of girls playing on the beach recreationally.”

Given no time to celebrate a great start to the tournament, the Waves rallied to take on Hawaii an hour after defeating LSU. The Rainbow Warriors came ready to play and shocked the Waves in the fifth set to take the match 3-2.

The Waves were then presented with a second chance to redeem themselves by facing a familiar foe, the University of Southern California.

aust in hall jac o b r ese ndiz staf f w r i te rs

Editor’s Note: Seaver Films released a 12-part documentary on the Pepperdine Women’s Beach Volleyball team called “Compete With Purpose.” The chapters show losses from previous postseasons, tell the stories of senior leaders and give insight on what to expect for the upcoming season. This is the third and final exploration of the series review following Chapters 1-4 and Chapters 5-8.

The Pepperdine University Youtube channel released the final four chapters the past two Mondays. The chapters highlight more stories of the veteran players and how the team made their way through the competitive WCC and Championship Bracket.

Compete Chapter 9

With

Purpose:

This chapter focuses on the Waves’ run in the West Coast Conference Tournament last season.

The chaotic and competitive WCC Tournament last season took place on the beach just south of Santa Monica Pier.

After the Waves broke out the brooms against Pacific in the semi-finals with a 5-0 sweep, only Saint Mary’s stood in their way to achieve their third straight conference championship.

In the fifth set it was alumna Maddie Dilfer who secured the victory and capped off another 5-0 sweep and another West Coast Conference Championship. The entire team surrounded former Head Coach Nina Matthies, and began to chant “Nina! Nina!” She looked displeased that the team was focusing on her as opposed to their victory, showing she’s not

Courtesy of Seaver Films This Too Shall Pass | Pepperdine Beach Volleyball alumna Maddie Dilfer makes a pass during the 2018 NCAA Tournament in Gulf Shores, AL. A former Notre Dame indoor volleyball player, Dilfer’s journey to Pepperdine is discussed in Chapter 10 of the docuseries. one for the spotlight.

After securing their spot in the NCAA Tournament, the chapter ends with the entire team running to the water and plunging into it, West Coast Conference Championship banner in hand.

Compete Chapter 10

With

Purpose:

This chapter highlights the journey of alumna Maddie Dilfer.

Dilfer originally signed with the University of Notre Dame after her high school career at Valley Christian in Cerritos, CA. In two seasons she started 42 out of 56 matches for the Fighting Irish as a setter. She said she felt burdened by her college atmosphere and didn’t love the sport as much as she used to.

During her sophomore season Dilfer shifted her focus to her relationship with God.

“This is a gift that He has given me,” Dilfer said. “It’s my obligation to then glorify Him with it. Trusting that God’s plan is perfect and what I am supposed to be doing has been huge for me.”

Dilfer transferred to Pepperdine for her junior year and continued to play indoor for the 2016 season. The following season she wanted to take on the challenge of beach volleyball. She did not see action during the 2017 season, but Matthies pulled her aside at the end of the season to thank her and say that she would have a huge role in 2018.

Dilfer talked about how surreal it is playing in her last season.

“Everybody always says ‘play each game like it’s your last,’” Dilfer said. “I think this year it’s taken on a whole different meaning since this probably is my last season playing competitive volleyball.”

Courtesy of Pepperdine Athletics

She thought back to a time when playing the game was simpler and how that helps her senior year.

“I just think back to my 16-year-old self when I was at my best competitively,” Dilfer said. “Going back to that helps me enjoy each and every day.”

Compete Chapter 11

With

Purpose:

Chapter 11 takes viewers to day one of the Women’s Beach Volleyball National Championships.

The Waves earned the number two seed in the eight team, double elimination tournament.

In their first match, the Waves took care of business against the LSU Tigers.

The Waves dominated the Tigers and won the first three sets to win the match 3-0.

However, the Waves remained serious as they realized

Compete Chapter 12

With

Purpose:

The final episode ends exactly how the season began, with the Waves battling the USC Trojans.

The stakes were high for the Waves as this was the final match of head coach Nina Matthies’ storied career.

Ultimately, Matthies’ career ended in defeat. The Waves dropped the fifth set and the Trojans advanced after their 3-2 match win.

Although the Waves did not end their season on top of the mountain, they will still have a chance at victory in the upcoming 2018-19 season.

As Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Waves are not inspiring because they rise and fall, but because they never fail to rise again.”

While this marks the end of the series, fans can catch the 2018-19 Women’s Beach Volleyball team in action Saturday at the Pepperdine Fall Invitational at Zuma Beach.

AUSTIN.HAL L @PEPPER DINE.EDU JAC OB.R ESENDIZ@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Courtesy of Pepperdine Athletics and Calvin Wood

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november 8, 2018

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The Graphic

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pep p e rd in e - g ra p h ic.co m

SPORTS

Photos by Milan Loiacono Winning Waves | (Top left) The Waves’ starting lineup holds hands during the National Anthem before the game; (Bottom left) Junior midfielder Tara Morris avoids a San Diego defender; (right) Senior midfielder Christina Settles winds up to boot the ball downfield last Saturday afternoon in Malibu.

Women’s Soccer cruises past San Diego on Senior Day

wing getting in,” Anderson with seven shots on goal to San said. “I knew I had to get in the Diego’s three. box to finish it. It was an aweNeither team scored in the second half. The Waves played Pepperdine defeated the some run by her.”

The Waves scored again in defensively, only taking two University of San Diego 2-0 on Saturday. The Waves’ fourth the 25th minute when sopho- shots. The Toreros took four straight win at Tari Frahm more Devyn Gilfoy capitalized shots in the half.

“The second half was comRokus Field was not enough to on a mistouch by one of the Toing back down,” Head Coach send them to the NCAA tourna- reros.

“Before I went in, my coach Tim Ward said. “Your legs can ment.

Pepperdine finished their Max [Rooke] came up to me,” only go so fast for so long. Our season third in the West Coast Gilfoy said. “He said, ‘The grass girls started to feel the weight Conference with an overall re- is sticky today, watch for a mis- of the first half effort.”

Saturday was the last game cord of 11-6-2. San Diego fell to take in the back,’ and so I was justLoiacono putting on| Staff a highPhotographer press of Pepperdine’s season. Despite 8-9-1 on the season.

Milan Pepperdine got off to a fast and luckily the girl didn’t give the Waves’ 10-1-2 record in start in the first half with a goal it enough juice on the pass and their last 13 games, the comby sophomore Joelle Anderson I was able to intercept and fin- mittee did not vote them into ish it far post.” the postseason tournament. in the sixth minute.

Pepperdine finished the half During that streak, Pepperdine “I saw Brie Welch on the

ky le m c c a be staf f w r i te r

beat Brigham Young and Santa Clara, the only teams ahead of Pepperdine in the WCC, which both made the tournament.

Without the postseason, Saturday was the last game for Pepperdine’s seniors.

“Our seniors mean a lot to us,” Gilfoy said. “We just wanted to get them an awesome last home game just to send them off with a bang, so we were all coming out firing.”

Redshirt senior Brielle Preece said the team tried to focus on their mission and not get distracted by the possibility of it being the last game for the seniors.

“It was a great atmosphere

coming in,” Preece said. “It was a day to celebrate the seniors. We had great energy all the way from the start. In the locker room all the way up to the field through warm-ups and continuing into the game.

It was good energy all around and it was exciting to play.”

The stands were packed for the Waves’ final home game of the season.

“I think it was great how many people we got out here,” Anderson said. “All the families of the seniors came, which was really awesome. I think the whole entire atmosphere was just great.”

K YL E.M C C ABE@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Junior Tennis player serves up success Kar l W int er s taf f w r i ter

She moved halfway across the country at age 12 to train full time.

She was sidelined by injuries for 14 months at the peak of her young career. She began college at 16 years old.

And yet, those obstacles weren’t even the toughest part for Ashley Lahey.

Lahey, 19 and now a junior at Pepperdine, is the defending NCAA Women’s Tennis singles runner-up and a two-time all-WCC singles first team player.

She is the fourth-ranked collegiate player in the nation but, en-route to these successes, the biggest obstacle has been maintaining her identity off the court.

“When you do anything at this level, you let it become your identity; you measure your self-worth in your performance,” Lahey said.

“That’s really not a way to live.”

Lahey’s life centered around tennis since moving from her mountainous hometown of Boulder, Colorado to Southern California in order to practice at the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Training Center West in Carson, California.

Despite professional aspirations in the sport, she is a Sports Medicine major with the inten-

tion of earning a medical degree and establishing hospitals in developing nations around the world.

Lahey’s childhood was unique in that she practiced from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., on average days, with schoolwork following the grueling training schedule. Living and training with fellow rising tennis prodigies allowed Lahey to maintain the social aspect of being a kid.

“The homeschool part was pretty easy,” said Pauline Lahey, Ashley’s mother, a native of South Africa. “The stress of the travel and tournaments made [life] more stressful during those years.”

After first picking up a racquet at age 3 at her mother’s squash practices, first playing in a tournament at age 6 (against 12-year-olds) and playing every youth sport from soccer to skiing, the younger Lahey was competitive and energetic, to say the least.

“I go crazy when I get bored,” Lahey said. “I would much rather have a day where I get up at 6 and go to bed at 11 and be doing stuff the entire day in a stressed mode than just wake up whenever and go to bed whenever and have nothing to do that day.”

The tennis lifestyle not only kept Lahey on her toes, but also forced her to develop early. In

her short career thus far, she traveled to so many countries that she lost count and even endured stress fractures in both feet in a single year.

“I had to learn at 12 years old how to travel across the country, how to manage my studies with a rigorous training schedule, how to pack for traveling, how to deal with losing,” Lahey said.

“It’s such a good character developer because it teaches you how to behave and be mature.”

She ranked in the top three nationally for her age group at 14, but then was dropped by the USTA due to the foot injuries. After considering quitting, Lahey has since worked up to her national-class level today, and this roller-coaster ride is what she considers her best accomplishment.

“No one really believed in me anymore [after the injury],” she said. “I set out to prove people wrong.”

The injury recovery took mental toughness and maximum effort, things that Lahey carried with her to college.

She said she felt no difficulty transitioning to Pepperdine at such a young age, just as she felt no difficulty transitioning to homeschooling earlier on in her life.

Pepperdine is where she felt like she belonged, Lahey said.

“She takes doing her

very best to a whole new level and puts effort into every single part of her day continuously,” said Lahey’s boyfriend Treet Allison, a junior Engineering major at Pepperdine.

Now, Lahey is balancing tennis, her pre-med major, her relationship with Allison and as many outdoor activities as time allows.

“There’s a lot of energy that goes into everything she does,” said Per Nilsson, Women’s Tennis head coach. “She wants the best for everyone.”

Nilsson also called Lahey a perfectionist, one who was always looking for a new challenge. She continues improving her game and character, saying that she hopes to improve on “humility, demeanor and losing with dignity.”

Lahey said she is developing the physical and mental tools to succeed in a sport that she calls a constant battle with one’s own selfdoubt. However, she has also made sure to assemble the tools for a fruitful life beyond her tennis career.

“I have a ball in every court,” Lahey said.

Catch Lahey and her teammates as they begin their quest to defend their West Coast Conference title and pursue a national title.

KA RL .W I N T E R@P E P P E R DINE.EDU

Photo courtesy of Bill Kallenberg Serves Up! | Ashley Lahey celebrates a won point during the Riviera-ITA All-American Championships at the Ralphs-Straus Tennis Center on September 29.