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MSU remembers student lost to drug death, arrests made in relation by Lacretia Wimbley News Editor
Thomas Parker Rodenbaugh, Mississippi State University junior construction science major, died August 2014 in the Oktibbeha County Regional Hospital in Starkville, Ms. While the investigation of Rodenbaugh’s death is still pending, Michael Hunt, Oktibbeha County coroner, said the official results stating cause of death will be revealed in the toxicology and autopsy report. “Rodenbaugh was picked up on Nash Street and then transferred to the Octibbeha County Hospital Regional Medical Center where he died,” Hunt said. Whitley Daughtry, sister of Thomas Parker Rodenbaugh, said Rodenbaugh was a special person whose personality shined through everyone. “He was loved by so many. Hearts were touched, good times were shared and memories were made, Daughtry said,” “I’m sure most of
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us immediately think of his never-ending smile and beautiful eyes. There was life in him that was so vibrant it was hard not to notice.” Daughtry said it was difficult not to notice his smile and if you did not notice, his persistent drumming would have caught your attention. “Parker had a love for life. He always wanted everyone around him to be happy and to be having the time of their lives right along with him. He had a love for soccer, playing the drums, and Ole Miss (even though he was born a Bulldog in Starkville, Mississippi). But he loved his momma most of all. And we all believed he had not yet found a steady girlfriend because he was looking for someone like her.” According to Daughtry, most of his friends knew Parker, or more so as “P-Rod,” from his days at Madison Central, Ole Miss, Holmes or State. “Some of us like to say Parker was an expert advice-giver, party organizer or deer hunter/survivalist (only some of his buddies may get that one),” she said. Daughtry said he also loved to
For the next few days Mississippi State University could face severe high temperatures due to a heat wave that is predicted by weather experts. MSU Geosciences Professor Mike Brown, who also serves as Mississippi’s state climatologist, said for most of the southeast U.S. we are expecting above normal temperatures and moisture for the next few days. “Above normal moisture (i.e. higher dew point temperatures) means that our body’s ability to cool itself through sweating will be compromised. It is the evaporation of sweat that naturally cools our body. When moisture is high it slows the evaporative process thus slowing the cooling process. This is why we use the Heat Index to describe how hot it feels. With more moisture in the atmosphere the temperature feels hotter,” Brown said, “With the absence of rain over the past couple of weeks these warmer temperatures coupled with very little cloud cover will stress outdoor plants and grass.” The Mississippi State Crisis Action team alerted the MSU student and staff body with this approaching development and made aware why the change in temperatures is important.
Whitley Daughtry | Courtesy Photo
dance. “He was often seen re-enacting the Dirty Dancing lift with friends – didn’t matter if it was a girl or guy,” she said. “Today, we come together to lift up our dear Parker. With our memories and prayers. Raise him up to the Lord our God until we see him again one day. Sid Salter, Chief communications officer at Mississippi State University, said MSU expresses a deep sense of sadness whenever a student death occurs, regardless of the cause.
MSU wildlife professor invested in students, leaves community legacy
Angela Riffell | Courtesy Photo
by James Tobermann Staff Writer
Mississippi State University associate wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture professor Dr. Sam Riffell died Aug. 11. In a statement, Sid Salter, director of Public Affairs, said the entire university is grieving after the loss of Dr. Riffell. “Dr. Riffell’s untimely passing is indeed a real loss to the university community. He was a gifted and respected member of our faculty andknown to many in Starkville as a loving and engaged father. His family, friends and colleagues remain in our thoughts and prayers,” he said.
A memorial service for Riffell was held at Starkville Community Church on Aug. 16. Dr. Eric Dibble, interim head of the department of wildlife, fisheries, and aquaculture, said the memorial service was attended by over 1,000 people from across the country. “All of his colleagues and graduate students from the department came,” Dibble said. Dibble said Riffell was a talented teacher and an invaluable researcher. “He was one of the most important faculty members we had in our department. He published very well, so his contributions to the department were enormous,” Dibble said. Dibble said Riffell also enjoyed serving as undergraduate coordinator for the department. “He worked face-toface with about 200 students every semester,” Dibble said. “He was probably one of the most caring faculty members toward our undergraduates.” Dibble said Riffell had a deep passion for exploring the natural world and sharing it with students. “He told me one time
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A press release from MSU released on Tuesday said, “A heat wave is an extended period of abnormally and uncomfortably hot and unusually humid weather. A heat wave lasts typically two or more days. These conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening if the proper precautions are not taken.” Summerly Brown, graduate student at MSU and also a regular runner said she had heard about the weather advisory and took proper precautions of waiting till 9 p.m. and drinking plenty of water. “At 9 p.m. the temperature outside still was 87 degrees with the air, thick with humidity. The humidity makes it difficult to run and catch your breath unless you’re an experienced runner,” Brown said, “For years, I have run in summer heat in south Florida but something about this Mississippi heat made my run even more challenging. I was sweating buckets by the end of my 4 miles. With the heat wave in full effect for the rest of the week, I recommend runners choose an easier easy, drink plenty of water, and wait to run in the early morning or late evening.” Dr. Joyce Yates, Director of Health Education and Wellness at MSU’s health center said to cope with the heat wave temperatures students should increase fluid intake such as water or sports drinks.
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that if he could reach every young student in our department and show them the beauty of nature, he would feel satisfied,” Dibble said. Colleagues said Riffell was a highly respected by his peers across the country. Entomology research associate JoVonn Hill, who was one of Riffell’s first contacts upon arriving at MSU, said Riffell’s work organizing the Southeastern Prairie Conference in 2013 stood out as a prime example of his gift for planning and coordinating. “Everyone who attended said it was the best meeting they had ever been to,” Hill said. “[Riffell] was a big part of that.” Hill said Riffell made many contributions to the field of grassland research. “I think he should be applauded for his work in grassland research here in Mississippi and the Southeast,” he said. Entomology research associate Jennifer Seltzer said Riffell was always willing to collaborate on research with other departments, including the Mississippi Entomology Museum. Monday
“He always included the museum in grants,” Seltzer said. “He always tried to include us in some way, and it wasn’t just talk.” Seltzer said Riffell, though talented in many areas, did not seek out praise and was quite modest about his abilities. “He was always very modest, so it was hard to know just how good he was, because he didn’t brag about it,” Seltzer said. Colleagues said Riffell, a father of two girls, was devoted to his family and spent as much time with them as possible. Dibble said Riffell was passionate about his family and hoped to pass on his love of nature to his children. “He talked a lot about his wife and daughters, and he was most excited when talking about his daughters going birding,” Dibble said. Hill said Riffell was highly involved in his daughters’ extracurricular activities. “Sam was a big soccer coach here in town,” Hill said. “He did a lot with the girls, like putting together insect collections with them.” PROFESSOR, 2
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MSU Student Association brings cabs, virtual food bank to students by Emma Crawford Editor-In-Chief
As the fall semester begins at Mississippi State University, there are new students, new additions to Davis Wade stadium and the Student Association unveils Cowbell Cabs, Block
by Block and Campaign for Change — three programs designed to benefit the student body. In past years, the Night Route has been available to students to transport them home safely when they’ve been at bars and restaurants around town, but the SA
SA , 3
Policy: any person may pick up Reader’s Guide a single copy of the reflector for free. additional copies may be obtained from the meyer student me-
has opted for a new system this year — Cowbell Cabs. The Cowbell Cabs program aims to accomplish the same goal as the Night Route by providing a free cab service to MSU students on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
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“There were a agic number of eaths to occur efore the school ear began, “ Salter aid. “Since this spefic case transpired ff of campus we nly know what the olice have released o the media as far as etails go.” “We hope parents nd guardians have ngaged with their oved ones about the angers and realies of drug usage ong before students rrive on our camus,” he said. “We so maintain a ready ervice directed oward helping all of
our faculty, students and staff.” H ighl ight ing MSU’s 20,000 student population, 5,000 faculty and staff population in adjacent to a 45, 000 people town, Salter said the frequency of drug-related incidents are considerably low when compared with the rest of the world population. “The University has long geared and committed to helping students with any substance problem and those choices that are made by young adults,” he
PROFESSOR
“Sam was a big occer coach here n town,” Hill said. He did a lot with he girls, like putting ogether insect colections with them.” Speaking for he entire wildfe, fisheries, and quaculture department, Dibble said aculty, staff and tudents are all missing Riffell’s
said. “If anyone needs help they can call 911 or 662-325-2091.” In connection to SKYLAR O’ KELLY DAYLIN O’ KELLY charged with drug Rodenbaugh’s mandeath, Skylar Noel trafficking, slaughter and culO’Kelly and youngpable negligence er brother Daylin Deveaeux O’ Kelly charged against him. “Last year the were arrested on ‘Manslaughter culpending charges. pable negligence’ According to detective Bill Lott law was passed but of the Starkville just went into effect Police Department, on July 1, 2014.” younger brother Lott said. “The law Daylin O’ Kelly was states that if you released with no give someone a drug charges pending, or controlled subin opposition to his stance you can be older brother Skylar charged with culpaO’ Kelly, who was ble negligence.” CONTINUED FROM 1
enthusiasm and caring personality. “You could step in his office any time and get a big smile,” Dibble said. “We’re all missing him dearly.” Angie Riffell, wife of Sam Riffell, expressed the professors devotion to teaching and love for students. “I think that Sam
was meant to be a professor,” she said. “He inhaled entire books in one sitting then gave me a succinct summary. He also possessed an inherent sense of logic. He rarely remembered to shut the refrigerator door because he was always deep in thought. He loved being a professor
because he was able to spend his life surrounded by interesting colleagues and grad students who never lost their sense of wonder. This is the life that he dreamed about when we were college students ourselves, and he has passed these dreams of wonder and knowledg to our children.”
Cotton District Arts Festival prepares for poster competition the 2015 festival and
by Alexandria Wilson also displayed on fesStaff Writer
The 2015 Cotton District Arts Festival may be months away, but planning is well underway. Mississippi State University students and community members will have a chance to use their design skills to create graphics that will be entered in the Cotton District Arts Festival Poster Contest. Open to those who are 18 years or older, this year’s submission deadline is August 29th. The winner of the contest will see their design used as the official poster for
tival merchandise. The winner will also receive $300 courtesy of Chalet Arts. Last year’s winner, MSU graduate Dominque Pugh, became a fan of the Cotton District Arts Festival during her time at MSU. “I have always been a fan of the previous CDAF posters and always thought it would be nice to have one that I could say that I designed,” It was a great way illustrate what CDAF means to me.” Pugh’s poster featured art supplies, instruments and cooking utensils mingled with the name of the festival. According to the official poster
contest press release, the posters submitted to the competition are asked to be vivid, colorful depictions of the many elements that the arts council represents, including music, theatre, dance, literature, visual and culinary arts. The winner will be notified on September 26th and the poster will be presented to the public in November. “It’s always a lot of fun to see the designs that everyone comes up with. We have such talent in our community,” said Erin Davies, SAAC Administrative Assistant and Membership Coordinator.
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“If planning outdoor activities, plan these for early morning or in the evening, wear a sunscreen, stay indoors as much as possible, choose lightweight, easy fitting, loose clothing.” Yates said. Heat Index is the number in degrees Fahrenheit (F) that tells how hot it feels when relative humidity is added to the air temperature. Exposure to full sunshine can increase the heat index by 15
Contest details and design specifications can be found online at www.CDAFestival. com. Any questions about the poster contest can be directed to Laurie Burton at lburton@qaran.com or 662-694-1107. The festival is put on each spring by the Starkville Area Arts Council (SAAC). The mission of the SAAC is to promote the essential value of the arts for the cultural, educational, social and economic vitality of the Starkville area. Connect with the SAAC online at www.starkvillearts.org, or Facebook at www. facebook.com. CONTINUED FROM 1
degrees. MSU’s press release says, “Heat index values Wednesday (Aug. 20) through the weekend will likely be in the 110to-115 degree range (that is with the temperature being taken in the shade). In full sun these values could climb to around 125 degrees.” Brown said students should avoid being outside during the warmest part
of the day (2 p.m. to 6 p.m.). “Reduce the amount of time your pets remain outdoors, be certain you and your pets remain hydrated and remove heat sensitive items, phones, laptops, etc. from automobiles. Heat related illness and death is avoidable if you recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and use common sense,” Brown said.
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SA The cabs will not run on home football game weekends, due to the influx of traffic and people. Students will be able to use the cabs by calling a cab to pick them up and showing the cab driver their student ID. They can also bring one guest along for the ride. Cowbell Cabs will focus on transporting students from places in the main areas of downtown Starkville and the Cotton District back to their homes. The service will not take students from their homes to bars or restaurants, and service routes will exclude Cowbells, the Highlands and Wal-Mart. JoJo Dodd, SA Chief Administrat ion Officer, said the SA partnered with McClain Taxi and Bulldog Shuttle and Cab for a semester-long contract to operate and provide licensed cab drivers for four vans that will be marked as Cowbell Cabs. Cowbell Cabs is currently in its second weekend of operation. Cabs began running August 14. “The first weekend of the SA Cowbell Cabs program was
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phenomenal,” he said. “We did very little, apart from social media, to promote the service to allow for a sort of soft-opening, and we ended up transporting around 150 people.” Dodd said the ridership this weekend was far beyond the average number of passengers transported in previous semesters with the Night Route. He also said as students become more aware of the cabs, he hopes to see the program’s success continue. “Considering this and the models of other universities who have implemented similar systems, our program shows early signs of great future success,” he said. The Block by Block program, an idea SA President Brett Harris presented during his campaign in spring 2014, has also begun. Block by Block allows students who have purchased meal plans to donate one of their block meals per year to a virtual food bank. The donated block meals will then be distributed to MSU students in need. The student donation period
began Monday and will continue until Wednesday. Dodd said he hopes to reach the SA’s current goal of 1,000 donated meals, and that Aramark plans to match student donations. Brett Harris, SA President, said seeing the program come to fruition has been exciting and encouraging because of the students’ and university’s support. “We’re really impressed by the support we’ve seen already,” he said. “Four hundred and fifty people have signed up, so far.” Harris said originally, he had not considered asking Aramark to match the number of meal donations received through the program, but was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with them. “We really just thought about trying to get students to donate, but then they came to us with the idea to match us,” he said. T h o m a s Bourgeois, Dean of Students, said because the program is new, the process of distributing the meals after the donation period ends has yet to be finalized. Bourgeois said he
hopes the SA will play an active role in helping get meals distributed to the students who need them. “We really want them to decide, ‘who are we trying to serve with this program? Is it first year students? Second year students? Grad students?” he said. “It’s about matching the need with the generosity.” Besides these two programs, SA plans to introduce “Campaign for Change,” an effort to increase communication between SA and the student body, this fall as well. The SA will have a white board set up on the Drill Field and designate a topic on which students can then write their concerns, suggestions and thoughts on. The aim, according to Dodd, is to give students a tangible way to express their opinions. September’s topic will be Parking Services. Dodd said he believes the campaign will be successful because students have a wealth of opinions to share. “I think when students have the opportunity to voice their opinions, they do,” he said.
Friday, August 15
• 12:30 a.m. A student was arrested on Hwy 182 in Starkville for minor in possession of alcohol. • 12:30 a.m. The house mother reported the southwest door to Chi Omega sorority house was propped open with gloves. • 2:09 a.m. A student was issued a referral for alcohol violation in Oak Hall. • 8:53 a.m. An employee reported a dispenser missing from inventory at the Franklin Center. • 8:43 p.m. Student was issued a referral for minor in possession of North Hall and possession of marijuana in his vehicle. • 10:53 p.m. A student was arrested on University Drive for DUI.
Saturday, August 16
• 12:09 a.m. A student was transported to OCJ for suspended driver’s license. The student was later released for mistake on driver’s license by Starkville Police Department. • 1:14 a.m. A student was arrested on University Drive Starkville for careless driving, no insurance and DUI. • 1:34 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for DUI. • 2:04 a.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for public drunkenness and indecent exposure. • 2:10 a.m. A student was stopped for leaving a cab without paying the fare on Fraternity Row. An agreement was made with the student and cab driver. • 6:17 p.m. A student reportedly slipped and fell into a vehicle in North Hall parking lot, causing damages.
Sunday, August 17
• 12:00 a.m. A student was arrested on Nash Street for DUI. • 2:00 a.m. A student was arrested for possession of marijuana. • 3:45 a.m. A student was arrested on Hwy 182 for DUI first and contempt of court. • 10:47 a.m. A construction worker reported his tool had been stolen from the north end of Davis Wade Stadium.
Monday, August 18
• 12:25 a.m. A non-resident/visitor was arrested on Stone Blvd. for driving with a suspended driver’s license and disregard for traffic device. Justice Court citations were issued. • 12:33 a.m. A student was arrested on Magruder Street for minor in possession of alcohol and seatbelt violation. Justice Court citation and student referral were issued.
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THE REFLECTOR FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2014
Organizations offer opportunities for students to really get involved Everyone’s an expert when it comes to college. If you’re a freshman or a transfer student you’ve, no doubt, been subjected to countless speeches or breakout sessions promising tips to enhance your college experience. Nestled among those tips you’re sure to find the phrase “get involved.” If everyone’s saying it, it must be something important. But what does it mean? And why is it so important? There are over 300 registered student organizations on campus. If you like politics, we got you. If you like producing concerts, we got you. Even if you like Disney movies, we got you. There is bound to be some group that interests you on campus. There are organizations at Mississippi State University that serve students from all walks of life full of people whose peculiarities compliment yours in ways that would enhance you both. We call those people friends, by the way. Student organizations are just ways to bring like-minded people and future friends together. But why? Why would you waste time being involved in a group, organization or club? Because that’s what life is about. It’s how we grow what we know, hone our skills and create impressively cool things — by combining our skills and passions with others’. Also, because it’s much less lonely that way. From personal experience, getting involved in groups of other people makes everything else you do much more manageable. It’s more fun to do school work when you have friends to share the burden of studying for that test; it’s easier to get up and go run when you’re meeting someone at the Sanderson; and so, and so on. I transferred to MSU after a year away from school. I knew exactly two people on campus when I arrived last fall. It wasn’t until I decided to get involved in some organizations that I really began to find my place on campus and enjoy all of the opportunities that are afforded to an MSU student. The more involved I was, the more friends I made. As the number of friends increased, so too did my grades and morale. I currently live the dream. Some readers are the type
Managing Editor Catie Marie Martin
JoJo Dodd is a junior majoring in economics. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
that need a little push to begin to step out there and get involved in something. I hope this article has been a step in that direction for you. But there are others who need no pushing and are chomping at the bit to throw themselves neck deep into some student organizations. But quickly check the size of those eyes relative to your mouth. There is certainly a cautionary tale to be told. I’m an economics major, so allow me to use some vocabulary on you. There exists a point of diminishing returns when it comes to “being involved.” You can over do it, so my advice is to take it slow. Your ideal level of involvement is going to be different than others’. If you asked some of my friends, they would tell you I am over-involved, but I tell you I’m living the dream. We’re all different people, so just take it a step at a time. Find your niche and figure out what level of involvement is right for you. So take my advice, which is to take everyone else’s advice: get involved. Find something you’re passionate about or are interested in and see if there aren’t others who like the same things you do. There’s even a slick little website the university has set up to make finding these groups quite simple. Visit one.msstate.edu or the Center For Student Activities on the third floor of the Colvard Student Union to find out more about the groups on campus. And in the event that there isn’t an established club that interests you start one. Being involved is more than just signing up for a club. Being involved in something is to share a vision, passion or interest with a group of people. It is a way organized people can accomplish things far greater –and/or cooler– than one could do by themselves. And that’s something worth doing.
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Letters to the editor should be sent to the Meyer Student Media Center or mailed to The Reflector, PO Box 5407, Mississippi State, MS. Letters may also be emailed to editor@reflector.msstate.edu. Letters must include name and telephone number for verification purposes. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.
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The Reflector is the official student newspaper of Mississippi State University. Content is determined solely by the student editorial staff. The contents of The Reflector have not been approved by Mississippi State University.
The Reflector staff strives to maintain the integrity of this paper through accurate and honest reporting. If we publish an error we will correct it. To report an error,
Many summer internships offer advantages regardless of major
Many people think of traveling outside the country when they hear the term “study abroad.” Oftentimes, this is the case. But one does not always have to leave the country to surround themselves with a new culture or lifestyle. Sometimes internships offer the same opportunities, and students who participate in internship opportunities often feel as if they studied abroad as well. If an internship is best due to lack of finances or time, I would encourage you to do it just as much as I would encourage someone to take advantage of study abroad opportunities. College is the only place where students can find these opportunities, and I believe this is important to a student’s personal development when it comes to getting a college education. I would like to share my experience with internships to encourage you to seek out such opportunities as assets to your educational experience.
Unlike most students, I chose an internship that had absolutely nothing to do with my major. At the time I was interviewed for the internship, I was a biomedical engineering major in the middle of changing to a major in kinesiology. The only interest I ever had was in the health field, and all the jobs I had ever worked revolved around research in the health field. On the other hand, I have been writing since high school and have always been a big fan of Disney. I decided to explore the best of both worlds before switching over. I applied and accepted a role in the Disney College Program soon after. The first and most important skill I learned at Disney was how to live in a multicultural environment. If you learn to behave in a way that is respectful to all cultures, it will save you grief in the future. I was housed with six other random girls I didn’t know as soon as I arrived. No one filled out roommate matching
sheets. Every apartment in the program was set up this way. Everyone was from a different state, country or culture. People from all over the world participated in the Disney College Program. The majority of my closest friends from Disney were international and so were the most of the people I served in the parks. We learned about professionalism and the business side of the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” Every workplace is a business. Working at one of the largest companies in the world requires knowledge in etiquette, respect for other cultures, enhanced communication skills and much more. If you seek a certain career opportunity, you have to take initiative to reach your goal yourself and go about it in the proper way. As soon as I learned to network properly, I was fortunate enough to meet screenwriters before I returned home. I never expected to actually meet a screenwriter. I
Brooklyn Tucker is a senior majoring in kinesiology. She can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
was astonished that I accomplished my goal. I learned what I liked and didn’t like about public service, and found a backup plan in case a career in occupational therapy doesn’t work out. Even though I decided to stay with my major, I would not trade my experience at Disney for the world. I made so many lifelong memories and friends and learned so many things. I hope other students will also get the chance to have a similar experience. The most important thing I learned is that you never know what you are missing unless you take a risk.
Robin Williams’ passing tragically reminds us of his great life’s work
Robin Williams as Genie in Walt Disney’s Aladdin said, “But oh, to be free… Such a thing would be greater than all the magic and all the treasures in all the world.” In case you missed it – ¬or even if you didn’t – Robin Williams took his life a little over a week ago. Depression, addiction, disease – the reason doesn’t matter. Now, don’t get mad and stop reading just yet. Those things do matter, and I’ll touch on that, but only after I’ve established why they do not matter. You see, Robin Williams’ passing hurt me. I cried. Not like when you cry because you’re five years old and someone stole your crayons. I cried as if he were a member of my own family. Maybe that’s because, in a way, he was. For many of us raised on Disney movies, he was the Genie we all loved, granting wishes while making us laugh. He was Peter Banning, or Peter Pan, learning how to
fly again so he could save his children. And that’s just the beginning. As I grew older, I was able to experience him in more mature roles, from shouting “Good morning, Vietnam,” to teaching a group of high school boys what poetry is all about. For me, he wasn’t just another celebrity or actor that I saw a lot. He was my friend. He made me laugh. He made me cry. And, to quote Mara Wilson who played his daughter in Mrs. Doubtfire, “He always reminded me a little of my father.” For the most part, celebrities come and go. It’s nothing for someone to be the new (insert name here). But not Robin Williams. He was his own man. No one could replace him, and no one can. No one will. He was unique. He made everyone who ever felt a little weird feel normal. Yes, he was struggling with depression, and addiction, and disease, and life got the
best of him. I am in no way attempting to desensitize the fact that he committed suicide, but he was human, after all. He grew up lonely because his parents always travelled, and he suffered from what he called “Love Me Syndrome.” He was bullied everyday of middle school. His life was tough, and though many of us loved him, maybe he never really loved himself. While it is true that many comedians and artists are people who suffer with depression, anxiety or any of a number of mental troubles, it is not true of every artist. And those who are troubled don’t want or need to be reminded or remembered for it. When you remember Robin Williams, do you want to remember him as the really funny guy you grew up watching that just couldn’t take life anymore? Or do you want to remember him the way I remember him? I remember him as Peter Pan, saying,
Over the summer, new debate arose about the criminal justice system in the U.S. Senators Rand Paul and Corey Booker, a conservative and liberal, respectively, both found common ground on a subject that needs reviewing. Incarceration statistics in the U.S. are mind-boggling. According to a study by the Hamilton Project titled, “Ten Economic Facts About Crime and Incarceration in the United States”, the incarceration rate of the U.S., which is 710 per 100,000 residents, is five times higher than the typical global rate of 130. Do we really believe the U.S. citizens are inherently more susceptible to being locked up than the rest of the world? Or, does this present a fundamental flaw in our judicial system? Criminal justice reform is an area where both liberals and conservatives should be able to find common ground on ways to improve our current process. Not only do prisons cost taxpayers millions every year, there are policies in place that exacerbate larg-
and breakdown of the family structure. Many times, the effect on nonviolent criminals and their families is felt disproportionally to the crime. When a young father is put in prison for a decade there can be many unintended consequences. Severe declines in family earnings as well as hampered job prospects lead to cyclical poverty where too many times the son pays the price for the sins of the father. The human cost of our current system is vast. For instance, as congressman Paul Ryan points out in his new discussion draft titled “Expanding Opportunity in America”, “a single gram of crack cocaine could be all that separates a convict from a less-than-five-year sentence and a 40-year sentence,” Ryan said, “Rigid and excessive mandatory sentences for low-level drug offenders, like these, may add to an already over-crowded prison system without appreciably enhancing public safety.” The question at stake is this: what is the most effec-
We must then examine how we deal with non-violent offenders. Do the social costs outweigh the benefits in our current system? I believe so. There are three areas I believe require attention: sentencing, reform and reintegration. Testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2013, Judge Patti G. Saris said, “The bipartisan seven member commission unanimously agrees that mandatory minimum sentences in their current form have led to unintended results, caused unwarranted disparity in sentencing and contributed to the current crisis in the federal prison population and budget. We unanimously agree that statutory changes to address these problems are appropriate.” Restructuring of current law would fix the issue of serving a 40 – year versus five – year sentence for miniscule differences in amounts of a particular drug. Reform of inmates to reduce recidivism should be another aim of prison reform. Studies show that participation in programs such as work assignment,
Claire Wilson is a senior majoring in communications. She can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate.edu.
“To live would be an awfully big adventure!” He’s Mr. Keating, telling me to seize the day. He’s Patch Adams, making me, and his patients, laugh. He was a little bit of every one of us in a way. I think if he had seen the outpouring of love after his passing, he would have to say, “You have been a fabulous audience! Tell you what, you’re the best audience in the whole world.” And to that, I say, O Captain, My Captain, thank you. Thank you for being my friend.
U.S. legal justice system requires overhaul to reduce incarceration
Walton Chaney is a senior majoring in history. He can be contacted at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu.
rate of recidivism in former inmates. A bipartisan bill called the Recidivism Reduction and Public Safety Act of 2014 attempts to promote participation in such programs. Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH), a cosponsor of the bill, said “By reducing recidivism, we not only save taxpayer dollars, but also help people leave behind their past mistakes and become productive members of society.” Prison reform offers an opportunity to simultaneously be fiscally and socially responsible. Consequently, republicans and democrats alike should remember that being “tough on crime”
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An In-Class Distraction
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The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; the deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. Classifieds are $5 per issue. Student and staff ads are $3 per issue, pre-paid. Lost and found: found items can be listed for free; lost items are listed for standard ad cost. FOR SALE
Free 2006 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-636R sportbike in excellent condition with no dents or dings, 100 percent mechanically OK. If interested, contact michaelwills731@yahoo. com. Classic rock albums for sale. Beatles, Eagles, AC/DC, Boston and more. Over 5,000 comic books, mostly 1970s and 1980s, bagged and boarded. Over 20,000 baseball cards in 800 and 3,200 count boxes. Call 662-312-2402. FOR RENT
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The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. MSU student organizations may place free announcements in Club Info. Information may be submitted by email to club_info@reflector.
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msstate.edu with the subject heading “CLUB INFO,” or a form may be completed at The Reflector office in the Student Media Center. A contact name, phone number and requested run dates must be included for club info to appear in The Reflector. All submissions are subject to exemption according to space availability. SOCIOLOGICAL STUDENT ASSOCIATION
The Sociological Student Association will meet the last Thursday of every month at 5 p.m. in Bowen Hall room 250. All majors are welcome. For more information, contact Dr. Lane at lane@soc.msstate. edu. AMERICAN CIVIL LIBERTIES UNION-MSU CHAPTER
The MSU chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union will meet the last Wednesday of every month at 5 p.m. in Bowen Hall room 250. All majors are welcome. For more information, contact Dr. Lane at lane@soc.msstate. edu. THE STREETCAR LITERARY JOURNAL
The Streetcar is Mississippi State University’s creative arts journal open to student submission. Submit your art, poetry, short stories, nonfiction and more before April 21st online at thestreetcar.msu. wordpress.com. ASTRONOMY CLUB
The Mississippi State University Astronomy Club will be hosting public viewing night at the Howell Observatory at South Farm on
Saturday night at 8:00 p.m. The general public is invited. Directions to the observatory will be provided at the South Farm gate. YOGA MOVES CLUB
School or work stressing you out? Get moving into Yoga Moves. Try our moves to get into shape and our relaxation techniques to handle the stress. Yoga Moves meets at the Sanderson Center in Studio C, Thursday evenings from 5:30-7 p.m. Like Yoga Moves ClubMSU on Facebook. STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS
Care about the environment? Love activism? Come join SSC on Thursdays at 6 p.m. in McCool 111 to make a difference. Follow on Twitter @MSU_SSC. MSU PRE-VETERINARY CLUB
The MSU Pre-Vet Club welcomes all students to the Welcome Back BBQ on Wednesday, August 27 at 6:30 p.m. in Ballew Hall Auditorium.
THE REFLECTOR Friday, August 22, 2014
Braden Benson | The Reflector
Braden Benson | The Reflector
MSU President Dr. Mark E. Keenum addressed the class of 2018 at the Freshman Convocation Ceremony held Tuesday Aug. 19. Speakers included SA President Brett Harris, Provost Gilbert, SA Vice President Haley Grantham and Maroon Edition author Sarah Thebarge.
Over 2,000 freshman were scanned in at the program held at the Humphrey Colisseum. President Keenum stressed the importance of unity. Each freshman in attendence was given a coin as a memento with the inscription ‘forever maroon and white.’
First-time Freshman Convocation program held for MSU class of 2018: official welcome by Noor Mujahid Life Editor
Mississippi State University’s Freshman Convocation program provided the class of 2018 with an official welcome to college life. Fresh out of high-school, most 17, 18 and19-year-olds are already unnerved by the thought of leaving home and starting college, but the most intimidating, nerve-wracking statement most incoming freshmen hear from the people in their lives is, “this will be the beginning of the rest of your life.” It may be daunting for some to think of the first day of freshman year as the start of a whole new chapter in one’s life, but it does not change the fact that college can shape and mold a person giving them the ability to discover their niche.
The Freshman Convocation began with a formal welcome from Provost Gilbert, President Keenum, Student Association Vice President Haley Grantham and SA President Brett Harris. Maroon Edition author, Sarah Thebarge, followed the administration and SA speakers. Peter Ryan, Associate Provost of Academic Affairs, said Thebarge delivered an excellent presentation through speaking about her inspirational book, “The Invisible Girls.” “Speaking about her own personal experiences, she was able to remind students that you have good days and bad days and not to wallow over the bad days,” Ryan said. “I’m hoping it will resonate with them when they receive a C and were hoping to receive a B in a class or when they have a tiff in their relationships—small things
like that which they’re going to come across as students.” Keenum said the program is an assertion of the unity of the university as a whole as well as a means of ensuring the students begin their academic endeavors on a great note. “Research proves that few factors influence the degree of success enjoyed by college students than that of getting off to a good start. The grades earned by students in their first two semesters set the tone for the balance of their college experience,” he said. “So I see the Freshman Convocation as a formal acknowledgment of the fact that as a university, we’re committed to helping our freshmen understand the need to pursue excellence from the moment they leave the starting line here at Mississippi State. In addition, I see the convocation as a challenge to those students not merely to compete,
Shaking off country: Taylor Swift embraces pop genre, announces release of new album by Catie Marie Martin Managing Editor
It’s no secret Taylor Swift is a fan of clichés. She’s made a name for herself by penning songs that allude to Romeo and Juliet and singing about being rescued by knights mounted on white horses. She’s an All-American star. She promotes good-girl brands like Diet Coke and Keds, and she’s dated half the men in Hollywood. It’s not surprising, then, that her most recent announcement would be somewhat trite. On Tuesday, Taylor Swift hosted a highly-anticipated live stream on Yahoo during which she released a new music video for her single “Shake It Off,” announced a new album titled “1989” and revealed she and her team will be hosting a “Swiftstakes” in which she will give away 1,000 tickets and 500 meetand-greets. They say good things come in threes, and Swift’s announcement defi-
comes to exciting trios. However, the most outrageous thing to come from Swift’s thrilling reveal is not the fact each album will come with 13 Polaroid photos, nor the fact “1989” is the first full-length pop album Swift has ever recorded. The most notable, most talked-about aspect of the album is, without a doubt, the music video for “Shake It Off,” which depicts Swift dressed as a ballerina, a hip-hop dancer and a cheerleader. Swift’s awkward depiction of these various characters is nothing new. Her adoption of the gawky, girl-next-door persona is a crucial aspect of the Taylor Swift experience. She has donned nerd glasses for previous music videos, a fashion choice which spawned a trend of lens-less glasses at Urban Outfitters. GIFs of her clumsily grooving at awards shows consistently color social media, and just last week she wore fake braces to achieve a whole new level of awkwardness
“Ew” sketch. Swift is a master at embracing uncomfortable moments and turning them into something from which her fans can learn. “Shake It Off” makes it obvious she doesn’t take herself too seriously. “I’m putting myself in all these awkward situations where the dancers are incredible, and I’m having fun with it, but not fitting in… It shows you to keep doing you, keep being you, keep trying to figure out where you fit in the world, and eventually you will,” she said in a recent interview with Rolling Stone magazine. Rather than wearing her quirks as a chip on her shoulder, Swift uses them to relate and connect with the public. “Shake It Off” encourages listeners to passionately pursue what they love without worrying about the opinions of others. Swift will release her new album Oct. 27, and it is already available for pre order on her website.
but to lead as they take their place in the Bulldog family.” Ryan said the whole idea behind the Freshman Convocation was to instill a sense of togetherness within the students and to let them know that they are all moving together towards one common goal. “College is really the beginning of your adult life, and the convocation was the beginning of a journey—the beginning of a new chapter,” he said. “Each freshman student in attendance was given a coin as a memento with an inscription ‘forever maroon and white.’” Keenum said he is convinced that this program will continue in years to come as an outstanding tradition for MSU. “We are always looking for ways to enhance the college experience, and I am confident this event will become a great tradition here at MSU,” he said. “It enables
the university to formally welcome new Bulldogs to the Bulldog family as freshman and to recognize in a very public and meaningful way the significance of the journey they are beginning.” Keenum said his advice to students would be to go to class. He explained the importance of attendance and participation in class as a vital aspect of the college experience. “Nothing accelerates academic success like not merely attending class, but engaging fully in the classroom process,” he said. “I advise students to embrace the totality of their college experience, but to remember that the purpose here is to be successful in earning a quality education and that is much more difficult to achieve without going to class.” Harris said the Freshman Convocation was a success and students appreciated the
program. “Our hope is that it will shape the mold of another cherished tradition here at MSU,” Harris said. “Most freshman that I had the opportunity to speak with enjoyed the event and loved Ms. Thebarge.” Keenum said the program will grow to become an integral part of our university’s welcoming of freshman to the campus and college life. “Our freshmen gathered in the Humphrey Coliseum in their first days on campus and in a few years those who commit to excellence will return to the hump to complete their MSU experience at the commencement,” he said. “I believe demonstrating the connection between the start and finish of the quest for an education at a great research university like MSU is vitally important to each student who took part in this very special event.”
ZZ Top set to take Humphrey Coliseum stage Oct. 30, brought to campus by MMP by Noor Mujahid Life Editor
“Cause every girl crazy ‘bout a sharp dressed man.” Although most people recognize this line from the A&E hit TV show “Duck Dynasty,” the voice behind this wellknown lyrical line is none other than the ‘70s and ‘80s band, ZZ Top. Dusty Hill, Billy Gibbons and Frank Beard make up the iconic rock band which will be heading to none other than Mississippi State University’s very own Humphrey Coliseum Oct. 30, courtesy of Music Maker Productions. MMP works to bring in a diverse group of artists every year. Last year’s lineup included FUN. performing at the Humphrey Coliseum, a concert by 2Chainz at the MSU Horse Park and The Neighbourhood at the Old
ZZ Top is a classic rock band that all audiences will be able to enjoy. College students are almost certainly familiar with the group on account of the band’s catchy tune “Sharp Dressed Man,” used as Duck Dynasty’s theme song, and the older crowd will enjoy reminiscing to the songs played by the band. Drew Dygert, MSU junior agronomy major and ZZ Top fan, said he was enthused upon hearing the news that the classic rock band would be coming to our campus. “ZZ Top is legendary. The band’s music is everywhere — in movies, commercials, TV shows, and video games,” Dygert said. “I remember playing some of their songs on guitar hero and the fact that they’re an older band does not phase me at all. It will truly be an honor to have them perform here at Mississippi State.”
Director of Research and Development for the Student Association, said the student body will enjoy ZZ Top’s concert because their look is in right now, and their music is very good. “Beards are in, and ZZ Top will not fail to impress with their beards or their sounds,” he said. Ticket information for the concert is unavailable but will be announced soon on MMP’s official msuconcerts. website, com. Student discounts will be offered to the first 1,000 MSU students purchasing tickets in person at the Center for Student Activities. Their office is located in suite 314 in the Colvard Student Union. Attendees of the October concert will be able to hear a legendary rock band as well as witness the dark sunglasses, long beards and leather get-up that go along with icons.
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Welcome to the Starkville music scene: everything from big-name bands to local performers By Daniel Hart Contributing Writer
Starkville’s music scene had a few legendary moments come and go in the past few years. One night The Weeks and Colour Revolt played in the house show paradise dubbed the Garden Center on Mississippi Highway 182, and the police busted the concert due to lack of permit. That same night, the show was moved to then- State Theater, now the Dawg Pound. Clayton Waller, senior marketing major at Mississippi State University, one of the founding members of local rock band Wolf Cove and the founding member of alternative group Rock Eupora, said the night Colour Revolt’s show shifted venues sticks out to him as a Starkville music legend — and not just because the floor nearly caved in. “It’s like a whole crowd of people made the trek from the Garden Center to State Theatre and were helping Colour Revolt haul their equipment up the stairs. [It was] so epic,” he said. As Waller notes, Starkville’s music scene is not a one-way street — instead, the scene exists as a community of musicians and concertgoers without much dividing the two. Space Capone’s members may ask for an impromptu tambourine player from the crowd at Dave’s, and Colour Revolt’s members may need listeners to help them pull gear up a flight of stairs. In a smaller town like Starkville with only a handful of local bands, the music scene remains largely unpretentious and joyous. For example, Waller said at times, the members of Wolf Cove would sometimes perform as their own opener under a different moniker. “We also played for some fraternity, sorority and organization events and would play a bunch of cover songs. We’d call ourselves Top Tier,” he said. “After the covers we would walk off stage and walk back on wearing the exact same thing and magically reintroduce ourselves as Wolf Cove.” Waller said part of the fun of playing in local bands and joining Starkville’s music scene was helping to enact
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change and watch the following reactions. “I loved playing in Starkville because people aren’t used to the kind of music I would play,” he said. “I remember when Wolf Cove first started playing, I could tell people were like, ‘I don’t know about this.’ It was cool forcing people out of their music comfort zones.” Though bands like Wolf Cove have cropped up and dissipated recently as students come and go, the big nights of Starkville’s music scene are far from over. Starkville’s music scene’s consistency ties to the efforts of Music Maker Productions, a student-run organization that works to bring quality musicians and concerts to MSU. Thomas Fitzner, 2014-2015 MMP student director and recent graduate, said the members of MMP gauge students’ interest to begin to discover acts to bring to campus. “MMP is very thorough with their selection process,” he said. “Throughout the current and previous years we research not only which artists are on the rise nationwide, but more specifically those who are gaining attention here at Mississippi State.” Though MSU students have diverse music tastes, Fitzner said the members of MMP work to incorporate a wide range of genres into concerts each year. “Just last year we hit every genre from Pop to Christian to Rap,” he said. Waller, a member of MMP in his time at MSU, said the organization works to bring in nationally-recognized acts — such as 2 Chainz, Cage the Elephant, The Neighbourhood, Pretty Lights and FUN., just to name a few from the past few years — at lower ticket prices for students. Fitzner said MMP concerts happen in multiple venues, including one unexpected equestrian space unlike any other in Starkville — one that typically accommodates more hooves than feet. “A lot of our general admission shows are in the Mississippi Horse Park,” he said. “The Horse Park is an amazing venue with 85-foot ceilings, grandstands and open floor-space which make for an incredibly spacious concert experience.” Sarah Margaret Hewes, recent graduate and 2013-
2014 student director of MMP, said the importance of Starkville’s music scene lies in the community it fosters between the city and the university, between students and Starkvillians and between concert attendees themselves — even ones who are complete strangers. “Live music has the power to bring people together, and that is the most important part of having a community,” she said. “If you are at a show with 5,000 other people, you might not know a soul there, but for a few hours, you have something in common with 5,000 strangers. I mean, I can’t think of many things that are more powerful than that.”
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Kaitlin Mullins| The Reflector
Music Maker Productions presented Grammy-winning band FUN. on Oct. 9, 2013 at Humphrey Coliseum. Along with FUN., MSU has hosted big-name bands such as The Neighbourhood, 2 Chainz and Cage the Elephant. Bands such as Wolf Cove and Rock Eupora shed light on Starkville’s locally-grown music scene.
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The Black Crows headlined Mississippi State University’s 2013 Bulldog Bash. In previous years, Third Eye Blind, Jason Mraz, Gavin DeGraw, The Eli Young band, and The Avett Brothers have headlined the annual Cotton District outdoor concert.
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THE REFLECTOR Friday, August 22, 2014
Nick Griffin plans to make strong return from injuries by Anthony McDougle Staff Writer
It was supposed to be simple. It was supposed to be a typical bowl prep practice. It was supposed to be nothing more than your average play: a running back on the receiving end of a pass trying to make something happen. However, as is oft the case, not only in the realm of athletics but the game we call life, things are rarely that cut -and-dry. Nick Griffin, a redshirt sophomore at the time, was on the opposite end of the aforementioned pass. Naturally, the bruising back hastily turned up field hoping to gain some extra yardage. “I saw the safety coming down to make the play and I tried to cut back,” Griffin recollects. “As soon as I planted I felt something pop in my leg and I fell.” The pop the senior running back remembered is a sound, a feeling that players and coaches alike dread the mere mention of. A sound that has single-handedly crushed the dreams of players unfortunate enough to experience it, leaving the debris of the season that could have been in its wake. It is the sound of an ACL tear, Griffin’s second in his Mississippi State University tenure. Faced with similar odds, most players would probably hang up the cleats and shoulder pads and call it a career. After all, an ACL injury is one of the most devastating injuries an athlete can receive, and if not handled properly, could cost them not only a season, but an entire career.
Nick Griffin is not most players. “The whole thing was really frustrating,” Griffin said. “But it happens and you have to deal with it. I had high expectations for myself and so
Knox noticed the potential for a breakout season in the seasoned back. “He has shown the ability this spring of being almost there,” Knox said. “And I think now he’s right on the
and life experience that extends beyond the glare of the lights of Davis Wade Stadium, all the while maintaining over a 3.0 average and being named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll three
work hard you will be successful,” Mullen said. “Through that I think he serves as a role model for some of our younger players.” As far as football is concerned the head coach said
he can to aid the team. “It’s going to be a big season, but I’m just going to try to get in where I fit in,” he said. “When it’s my time I’ll be ready, and when it’s not I’ll be making sure everyone else is .”
Nick Griffin explodes through a hole in practice. Griffin will try to earn playing time in a crowded backfield this season.
did everyone around me, so I couldn’t just quit.” Nearly two years and two ACL tears later, Griffin said he feels great, and if the spring game is any indication, he could be poised for a spectacular senior season. Running backs coach Gregg
verge of it. I think as he gains confidence we will see more and more explosive runs from him.” Griffin has undoubtedly emerged from the potentially career-ending injuries not much worse for wear, but also with a wealth of knowledge
Courtesy Photo | MSU Media Relations
years in a row. Head Coach Dan Mullen said he believes the senior has done an amazing job dealing with the situation and the recovery process and adds that Griffin is a great leader within the program. “Nick epitomizes the ideal that even though life may not always go the way that you want, if you are willing to
Griffin looks healthier than he’s ever been coming into a season. With a loaded stable of running backs, he hopes the senior will bring stability and experience to the group. With all the hype and expectations surrounding the Bulldogs entering the season-opener against Southern Mississippi, Griffin humbly said he plans to do whatever
Keeping the entire process and all the lessons learned in mind, he insightfully said there was one that he will use long after his last carry. “You are going to get knocked down,” he said with a chuckle. “It’s easy to just keep going and going, but when you are knocked down can you get back up?”
Mississippi State soccer looks for more success by Zach Wagner Contributing Writer
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In Aaron Gordon’s first year as head coach of Mississippi State University’s soccer team, the Bulldogs suffered a tough season as they finished 3-15 and fell short of qualifying for the SEC Tournament. Along with this, the Dogs did not win
any road games last season. Key contributors such as Elizabeth Sullivan, Morganne Grimes and C.J. Winship graduated last year while Annebel ten Broeke left the team after enjoying a stellar freshman campaign. Particularly, Sullivan will be missed as she set multiple school records while scoring 16 goals last season, which was 13 more than anyone else on the team.
Looking forward to 2014, the MSU soccer team has a very different look about them. This would be because of the addition of 19 new incoming freshman to the squad, as well as five other sophomores on the team. Needless to say, the Bulldogs are very young, but some players on the team do not see this as a bad thing. SEE SOCCER, 9
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Dudy Noble Field to receive $40 million makeover by John Galatas Copy Editor
The Mississippi State University athletic department announced an estimated $40 million master plan for renovations to Dudy Noble Field. While plans include offering fans innovative and stateof-the-art experiences, the project made retaining the traditions of the historic stadium a top priority, including the Left Field Lounge. The plans include a new double-tiered grandstand, a concourse encircling the field to allow fans a constant view of the action, berm seating and premium suite seating. Outfield suites will include two bedrooms, a bath, kitchen and living space and will be available for year-round use. MSU athletic director Scott Stricklin said the Bulldog baseball program deserved one of the finest facilities in the country and credited previous administration for setting a standard for the current facility. “We are very fortunate with the work done by the people who came before us. Mississippi State people had a vision for a modern facility for college baseball really
SOCCER
Dudy Noble Field will become one of the top stadiums in college baseball. The plans include a change to the Left Field Lounge
before anyone else came up with that concept. That has produced the facility we have now,” he said. “It’s hard to imagine it’s nearly been 30 years with that facility, but it’s time to reset the bar a little bit. We can take another step and give our players, our coaches and most importantly our fans the kind of facility that fits the wonderful baseball program we have.” The timetable for the project is based on the Bulldog Club reaching its $20 million
dollar private fundraising goal before moving forward with construction. Stricklin said the production team has a long way to go with design and fundraising but in confident is the direction of the project. “It’s exciting where we are. We have a long road ahead of us, and we have to figure out some funding. We have a lot of work to do in the design process. It’s great to have a big goal we can shoot for. This university and athletic
department has shown – with the Seal Complex and Davis Wade Stadium – to get somewhere you have to have a plan on where you want to go, and right now I think we have a really good concept and a really good handle on where we want to go.” Stricklin also said there is no specific time frame for starting or completing the project, but praised the staff in the Bulldog Club for hard work in fundraising during previous expansion projects.
Courtesy Photo| MSU Media Relations
“I’m not going to box us in on a time frame. We want to be as aggressive as we can on our fundraising side,” he said. “I know our Bulldog Club team, who has done a tremendous job the last few years helping us secure gifts to make things a reality, are going to focus and get after it.” There is no firm capacity for the project, but Stricklin said he expects the final product to continue to host record-breaking
crowds. Grandstand seating is expected to add nearly 4,000 seats while the berm seating will serve increased demand for general admission seating. MSU students will still enjoy reserved section seating as they has in the past. Members of The Dudes fan group can also access seats in the grandstand and the berms as well. MSU Head Coach John Cohen said the project compliments the history of the program and will benefit recruiting, player development and connectivity with former players. “In doing something new, you’re honoring the tradition. Scott and the architects have spent a very long time on preparing a vision for the future of our program,” Cohen said. “We have a long way to go. We’re going to get there, but there is a lot of work in front of us. That’s the fun part of it too. The fundraising process allows you to reconnect with a lot of folks who have a lot of stake in our program. Mississippi State baseball is a family, and these are the moments when family comes together and does something special. I feel like this is something really special.”
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Defender Shelby Jordan, who was recently elected captain, said she expects the newcomers to transition well under Gordon. “I think they’re going to adapt really well because Coach Aaron brought in a lot of new girls that are really good, and he knows how to coach,” she said. “I think they will do very well once they have been under him for a while.” Entering her junior year, Jordan acknowledged her role will change. Jordan said she and the upperclassmen have developed into being team leaders. “Shannen ( Jainudeen), Mary Taylor and I all have begun taking a leadership role on the team, because obviously we are older,” she said. “We have been
here and have experience, but it still seems so strange sometimes.” How do the freshmen themselves feel about all of this? Kayleigh Henry, one of the new freshmen from Hattiesburg, Miss., said the large group of freshmen are adapting nicely. “I think we, as a group, have done very well. Coach Aaron has helped a lot, as well as the upperclassmen because they’re always here to tell us what to do before we even come in,” she said. “They told us what not to do and what to do right before the preseason even began. It’s been awesome and a lot easier than I thought it would be, just because we had their guidance and leadership.” As for replacing Sullivan,
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Gordon said his players have a big role to fill to make up for Sullivan’s past production on the field. “You don’t really replace her. A player like that, you just try and find someone else who’s willing to step up,” he said. “Truth be told, to criticize our own team from last year, maybe we were a little too reliant on Elizabeth, because if she didn’t score, I didn’t know where the goals were going to come from.” Gordon added a potential candidate, who could help give some fire power to the attacking side of the field. “We have an emerging player in Shannen Jainudeen, who is entering her senior year with a new position, and she really has
embraced playing as a forward,” he said. “It seems like she can score some goals and I hope we have a few other players that can pick up the slack because we’re going to need it.” Freshman Morgan Ferrara looked solid in attack during the pair of preseason games against Memphis and Alabama, and looks to be another potential candidate to help as well. In an effort to rebound from a year ago, players said they view success as getting enough wins to qualify for the SEC Tournament by season’s end. Both Jordan and Henry expressed this same opinion, with the eldest, Jordan, stating that it would be a “Great goal for us to get to the tournament,
after how last season went.” However, Gordon views what a successful season would be in a different manner through daily effort on the field. “A successful season would be playing hard for twenty games. I can’t control wins and losses. If we could just have consistency, effort and play hard that will be successful,” he said. “It’s a sprint, in terms of time, but it’s long in terms of the grind.” Gordon said he also wants to see something being built for the long haul as well this season. “I just want to have a
lot of players in this young group that provide us the foundation that allows us to be very good in the future.” The players and coaches have adopted a positive which will be key in making strides this season. The Bulldogs seek to transfer the positive energy and youthful optimism to the playing field as the team plays three games in the next eight days to begin the season. The team kicks off the 2014 regular season Friday against Iowa State before facing off against Cincinnati at the Mississippi State Soccer Field.
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