62.5 Spartan Echo

11.14.14

Vol. 62, I ssue 5

Top

Stories Inside

NSU back on track, a letter from Interim President and CEO Eddie N. Moore, Jr. Page 7

The NAACP makes a visit to NSU. Page 2

The Labor Day Classic to return in 2016 Page 5

Homeless NSU students speak out Antonio Garland

On Norfolk State’s campus, many go about their daily routines with no knowledge of the number of homeless students surrounding them, unaware in class that they could be sitting next to one of the homeless.

The campus has students with no permanent residence; however, it is difficult to keep track of them.

Because of this, it makes finding the exact number of how many there are a difficult task.

According to the Office of Institutional Research, Assessment and Planning, using the information filled out on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), there are nine homeless students currently enrolled this semester.

One homeless student talked about coming to Virginia to live with their father.

Due to money troubles, the student and their father got behind on rent, eventually becoming evicted from their residence.

The student spoke of how they grew up fast from their experience of moving from neighborhood to neighborhood, but gained insight on how to carry on if they lost everything they owned, which is something most people wouldn’t be prepared for.

The student said that people don’t think about homeless situations because they are only focused on themselves; however, “It takes

a special type of person to care, to step up, help and give advice.”

Garland Wright, a junior political science major, who’s also a homeless student, feels that the school knows of the homeless, but doesn’t want to talk about

“...I’m willing to step up and reveal myself; because yes, I have a story to tell.” them.

Wright has been an activist in the community and pushed 200 people into registering to vote. He feels that some of his goodwill should be returned.

“We’re [an] HBCU. We’re black people. I have a financial situation. Why can’t they help me out?,”Wright said.

Both students described the mental strain of their situation. Wright has been diagnosed with depression.

The other student constantly worries about where their next meal will come from, having to dash off campus to a soup kitchen and back every day.

The two decided to tell their stories to bring awareness about homeless students on campus.

“Everyone has a right to privacy,” said Wright.

“However, I’m willing to

Although the percentage of Norfolk State’s homeless students is relatively small, it should never be overlooked. Photo by Tykhari Coles

step up and reveal myself; because yes, I have a story to tell.”

“Life isn’t going to make it easy for you to succeed,” said the other student. “It’s going to give you challenges. But, at the same time, it gives you answers. A lot of people don’t see the signs.”

Homeless students see their situation as another obstacle in their life path.

They don’t want pity from others, but want people to see them for who they are.

A few students expressed their thoughts on the homeless college students.

“It’s sad and shocking,” said Kayla Arrington, a freshman sociology major.

“It’s really surprising. I would’ve never guessed,” said Saquoia Green, a sophomore nursing major.

“Just because they’re homeless doesn’t mean they can’t get an education,” said Anissa Saunders, a sophomore nursing major.

NSU is no different than any other college. According to money.cnn.com, in December 2013, there were 58,158 students nationwide that indicated that they were homeless on federal financial aid forms during the 2012-2013 academic year, eight percent more than the previous year. It’s expected to increase this year.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan News

2

11.14.14

API president comes to NSU Antonio Garland

On Oct. 15, Norfolk State received a visit from American Petroleum Institute (API) president, Jack N. Gerard, who shared his insight on energy, its bright outlook in the United States and new job opportunities the energy industry brings.

Gerard talked about the importance of a “national all the above” strategy, which focuses on energy efficiencies, such as wind and solar energy and providing jobs for Americans, all while protecting the natural environment. He spoke on how the U.S. should change the way it does business and become the world’s lead energy superpower.

He also talked about job

opportunities for graduating seniors, believing that the oil and natural gas industry would be an excellent way to provide for families.

According to Gerard, API provides 28 percent of all our energy, which in a few decades is expected to jump to as much as 50 percent. In the last few years, the U.S. has surpassed all expectations by achieving a level of domestic energy production that was believed to be unthinkable five to six years ago.

America’s natural gas and oil industry supports $1.2 trillion in U.S. gross domestic product and provides $85 million a day to the federal government. Today, the in-

dustry supports 9.8 million jobs and continues to grow.

Gerard pointed out that 80 percent of Virginians support increase in domestic natural gas and oil production. According to recent surveys, the oil and natural gas industry contributes $12.5 billion to Virginia’s economy and supports 141,000 jobs across the state.

Gerard believes these numbers can increase with the right governmental policies, such as the federal government allowing the development of Virginia’s offshore energy resources, which will allow the commonwealth to receive $2.2 billion by 2035 and add as

much as 25,000 induced jobs. The increase in wages could go into developing programs, roads and schools around the state. 87 percent of federally controlled offshore lands are off limits to natural gas development because of government restrictions.

Students expressed their thoughts and concerns on Gerard’s presentation.

“Very informative and I’ll look up some information to make sure he’s right,” said Talanna Ruffin, a junior electronics engineering major.

“I think that he did a very good job [on his presentation],” said Ida Thompson, a senior political science

major. “[Though] I’d like him to specifically address the industry standards for human capital.”

“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” said Tyla Morris, a sophomore business management major. “He gave enough information so you wouldn’t be lost. I liked that he targeted the minorities.”

Currently, API is reaching out to minorities to show them the opportunities within the energy industry. API’s goal is to ensure that anyone who wants a well-paying career, has the opportunity to do so and for the nation to fulfill its potential as a superpower sooner, rather than later.

Being a student parent can be a daunting task Antonio Garland

Norfolk State is filled with students who are parents.

Their responsibilities often include taking care of their children, school work and working at their jobs. Two NSU parents shared their stories.

Tia Deas, a junior English major, with a minor in creative writing and theology, said one of her biggest challenges is getting her son to and from daycare, before and after her classes at specific times each day.

In addition to being a student, Deas currently works three jobs at IHOP, Student Health Ambassadors and at a PI firm for personal injury cases.

Vamonie Boddie, a junior mass communications major and former athlete, spoke of her daily chal-

lenges, taking care of her daughter and being a student.

“It’s a hectic…stressful job, but it’s worth every bit of it,” said Boddie. “It’s full of excitement, never a dull moment.”

Boddie also runs her own face painting business at Colorful Smiles Face Painting.

Despite the challenges, student parents put their children above all else.

Both parents said their children is what gives them the drive to do their best.

“I love my child in general,” said Deas. “[They’re a] general interpretation of me.”

Boddie spoke on how amazing it was watching her daughter learn to walk, talk and grow into a tod-

dler.

“What I enjoy most would be having a person that I love unconditionally and get it in return,” said Boddie. “Having a reason to strive for the best and accomplish my goals.”

These student parents gave their own advice to upcoming and new parents who are students.

“Use [your] child as motivation, if you succeed, they succeed,” said Deas.

“You’re a good role model to them. They’ll look back at the sacrifices you made and understand. You can explain your sacrifices [to them] later on.”

“My advice would be to not be afraid to fail at something. Learn from your mistakes and go forward from there,” said Boddie.

Vamonie Boddie (Junior, Mass Communications major; left) and Tia Deas (Junior, English major & minor in Creative Writing and Theology; right) are among the many parent-students excelling at NSU. Photos by Antonio Garland

“Never let it rest, until your good is better and your better is your best. Be the best mother or father you can be for that child.”

With the responsibility of having many tasks on a daily basis and having to take care of a child, student

parents show more determination than the average student. What they do is not just for themselves, but for their children. They help shape their future and serve as role models so their children may one day succeed.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

11.14.14

Spartan News

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NSU hosts Healthy Spartan Wellness Day Richelle Hammiel

On Oct. 23, Norfolk State University (NSU) hosted its 6th Annual Healthy Spartan Wellness Day (HSWD), where various stations introduced the students to different programs and procedures designed to keep them in good health.

The booths at HSWD included Girls on the Run, Urban League of Hampton Roads, Inc., Project Choice, the Student Ambassadors and Susan G. Komen.

Girls on the Run is a mentorship program for young girls, designed to teach them how to deal with real-life situations, such as peer pressure and achieving self-confidence.

This program is constantly

seeking volunteers and “SoulMates,” which are fundraising groups for teams to participate in different athletic activities, such as racing and swimming to raise money for scholarships.

The Urban League of Hampton Roads, Inc. focuses on education and youth, employment and economic empowerment, housing, health and wellness, and sickle cell disease management. The overall goal is to assist residents so they can ultimately lead better futures.

The Student Ambassadors deals with sex, AIDS and domestic violence. They will also host a World AIDS Day along with additional events,

which students can be informed about by simply applying with their general information.

Susan G. Komen is a breast cancer awareness program, which gives all the facts about the disease and symptoms to look for. Symptoms of breast cancer that they pointed to include lumps, swelling, dimpling, itching, nipple discharge, change in the size or shape and redness or darkening of the breasts.

Upon approaching this booth, the main message from Komen representatives was to “know your body. Know your normal.” They pointed out that many people don’t know what their bodies are

supposed to look and feel like.

When a problem does occur, they have no idea that something is wrong. Breast examinations and screenings are advised for all women.

Project Choice is a prevention program that raises awareness about HIV and substance abuse. In support of

this project, they held an HIV testing center in the student center encouraging students to know their status.

The overall message regarding health was to take care of your body. The ultimate goal for a healthy body is allowing you to live a long, normal life.

NSU’s annual Healthy Spartan Awareness Day continues to present various alternatives for eating healthy and staying physically fit. Photo from nsu.edu

NAACP makes visit to NSU Antonio Garland

On Oct. 30, the NAACP hosted “Where Does It End,” a program which brought up the issue of increasing confrontation between the public and police, highlighting the facts that

are less talked about.

The event was presented

by NAACP president Rodney Greene, who talked about the different factors contributing to the controversy, including police

In the aftermath of cases involving police brutality, the Norfolk State police department and Norfolk City police want to inform the Spartan community that not all police should be labeled as villains. Photo by Tykhari Coles

brutality, hip-hop and race.

They compared recent cases, such as Trayvon Martin and Mike Brown.

A few students, who were present, believe police who exceed their mandate are not punished accordingly or receive proper mental treatment for shooting a suspect.

They also feel black-onblack crime may play a contributing factor, feeling that cops won’t respect a race that doesn’t respect itself.

It should be noted, murder rates are higher between people of the same race than from the police.

Hip-hop is seen as a contributing factor due to artists saying negative things about the police in their songs. It also becomes a fad to dislike authority figures.

According to Greene, re-

cent studies showed that 52 percent of police brutality involves African-American men, 31 percent from Latinos, ten percent from Caucasians and eight percent from others.

Those who were present spoke on how they felt about the relationship between the police and the public.

“They’re supposed to protect and serve, they’re not supposed to overstep their boundaries,” said NSU alumna Ajani Hope.

“I do believe the police are people too,” said Ayo Kuti, a freshman electronics engineer major. “There are good cops and bad cops. We need to find good cops. We shouldn’t treat cops badly, which makes bad cops.”

“I feel the way the police have been treating the pub-

lic is wrong,” said Chris Goodman, a senior electronic engineer major. “If they keep showing unjust behavior, how can we trust in them to protect the public?”

Despite their recent reception, a huge contributing factor to police and civilian violence is how people react to the police when they’re approached. People often become confrontational, lashing out at police in a verbally aggressive manner, which provokes officers to respond aggressively, making them seem like villains. People who act calm and do as officers ask make for a one sided argument if police use excessive force.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan Sports

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11.14.14

What exactly is “black enough”?

Jason Gill

It has been reported that certain Seattle Seahawk players do not consider quarterback Russell Wilson “black enough,” so it begs to ask the question: what exactly is “black enough”?

This isn’t the first example of something like this happening, especially in sports. Just last season, Miami Dolphin locker room rifts between Jonathan Martin and Richie Incognito spilled into the public limelight. Martin, who is African-American, left the team after it

was reported that he was continuously bullied— some of the bullying involving racial acts—by Incognito, who is white.

Martin, who is Stanford educated and displays a high level of intellect, not only received little to no support from other teammates, but was ostracized in the locker room because some considered Incognito “more of a brother” than Martin.

These are just two examples that show that the African-American

community—particularly those with this mindset—needs to grow up.

Why treat people of your own race in a way you would consider racist if someone of another race aimed it toward you?

This isn’t the case for all African-Americans, but many feel as though educated African-Americans who speak properly are either not “black enough,” or consider them “acting white.”

Little do many African-Americans know that when they spew

such ridiculous statements, they are actually putting the white race on a pedestal, while degrading their own race. What they are pretty much saying is that intellect, intelligence and proper speech belong only to the white race. What they’re saying is if you strive to be successful, you are “selling out” to your own race.

There are so many things wrong with this type of thinking; it only encourages downward deterioration rather than

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One could also question whether or not the African-American race is ready to embrace success and the accolades that come along with it. Is the race ready to have a great number of individuals who are intellectual, educated, well-spoken and able to mingle or associate themselves among any other race, as well as they can with their own?

“Street cred” should never be the priority over success, but there are still too many people that have this mentality.

Do they feel this way because of what their peers would think, and not what they actually feel?

It is debatable whether or not this can be blamed on racism and the racial inequality in our society.

One thing is for sure: African-Americans have the power to change this.

There needs to be less finger pointing and more looking in the mirror.

Guys like Russell Wilson or Jonathan Martin should be celebrated and not ostracized in NFL locker rooms and society. African-American parents need to encourage their children to adopt people like them as role models. A change in perception will ultimately become a change in reality, and it starts inside the home and works its way into the culture.

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SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

11.14.14

Spartan Sports

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NSU vs. VSU, Labor Day Classic scheduled to Return in 2016 Kazahna Joyce

In early October, Norfolk State University’s (NSU) Athletics Director, Marty L. Miller, announced the return of the historic Labor Day Classic football games, where the Spartans will once again compete in two battles against CIAA rivals Elizabeth City State Vikings (ECSU) and the Virginia State Trojans (VSU).

“I am excited to be able to finalize arrangements to bring the Labor Day Classic back. It is one of our most festive weekends aside from homecoming,” said Miller.

The long time rivalry between the Spartans and the Trojans dates back to 1991, when NSU played VSU in the Labor Day Classic for the first time after gaining independence as an institution from Virginia State in 1969.

Much like the Battle of the Bay football game played between NSU and Hampton University, the Labor Day Classic game became a tradition for NSU and VSU’s football teams, bands and fans.

While in the CIAA, the competition between the two teams was in VSU’s

favor. The Spartans then decided to part ways with the CIAA in 1996 and join the MEAC. NSU made the transition to a division-one program fairly well, gaining an edge over the Trojans. The most recent games between the two resulted in blowout wins for the Spartans, including the 37-3 win over VSU in 2011.

NSU will also be competing against ECSU, whom they haven’t played since 1996, NSU’s last season in the CIAA. An average of 22,021 fans attended the NSU vs. VSU

game in the past five meetings. Last season, NSU was only able to generate an average attendance of 8,174 fans at home; now do you see why the return of the Labor Day Classic is such a big deal?

“It hit me hard when a fan made a statement to me about not knowing what else they were going to do Labor Day weekend after the Labor Day Classic games had been cancelled,” said Miller.

The Labor Day Classic had been a part of the Spartan’s schedule every year from 1991-2009, and then

appeared on the schedule again from 2011-2012.

Unfortunately, NCAA Bylaws prevented the Labor Day Classic from taking place the past two years.

NCAA DII Bylaw 17.9.3 states, “A member institution shall not play its first contest with outside competition before the Thursday preceding Sept. 6.”

NSU football is scheduled to reunite with CIAA rivals on the gridiron Sept. 3, 2016 (ECSU), Sept. 2, 2017 and again on Sept. 1, 2018 (VSU).

Parham poised for comeback season Reginald Thomas

Her team missed her dearly last season after posting a 12-16 record overall with a first round exit in the MEAC tournament. However, Aivah Parham’s return to the court just may propel the Lady Spartans into contention for the 2015 MEAC Championship.

After tallying 34 points and 12 rebounds against Morgan State toward the end of her junior season, she gave Spartan fans a flash of what was to be a stellar 2014 campaign.

However, a torn right achilles tendon spelled disaster for the Baltimore native, forcing her to redshirt.

Although she was unable to play, Parham contributed to the team in other ways. In practices and games she served as another leader on the

sideline and in the locker room, she helped to sustain team morale.

“I can’t wait to be on the floor with her. That’s my right hand man,” said senior guard Ebony Brown.

Being the team’s cheerleader and assistant coach, Parham was able to strengthen bonds with her teammates, which helps team chemistry on and off the floor.

With the departure of the Lady Spartans’ alltime leading rebounder and last year’s second leading scorer Rachel Gordon, Parham can help solidify the front court.

Her length and athleticism coupled with her knack for scoring and rebounding makes her a great addition to a team that loves to play an uptempo brand of basketball.

Although it was tough, the time spent studying the game can help improve her 9.2 points and 3.8 rebounds-per-game averages.

“I expect us to win the MEAC and anything short of that would be a failure, said Parham, whose senior leadership will be invaluable to this year’s relatively young team. She and last year’s leading scorer Rae Corbo provide a viable one-two punch.

Parham had a strong showing at this year’s Spartan Madness event, showing no signs of injury. She emerged from the tunnel during player introductions donning a smile symbolic of her pride and triumph through adversity. Her return to the hardwood is a testament to her dedi-

cation, perserverance, and love for the game.

Lady Spartan Aivah Parham practices for what she hopes to be her comeback season. Photo by Reginald Thomas

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan Lifestyle

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11.14.14

Note to all Spartans: get out and volunteer, intern Raisa Roxas

For many Spartans, internships and volunteering are a big part of the college experience. Whether it’s on campus under the supervision of a department head, with a large company, or a local non-profit organization, internships and volunteer opportunities are available for all Norfolk State University students.

“I’m currently doing volunteer work at the Norfolk Stanhope House with a [mentoring] program called K.I.P. Care. [It is] for kids with incarcerated parents, ranging from elementary school, to high school.

I enjoy working with the kids; they look forward to us coming, helping them with their homework and just simply talking to them,” sophomore pre-nursing major Shantaysa Rias said.

For some, interning or

volunteering can be a career-affirming experience that motivates students in their educational journey.

Internships and volunteer work can also open doors to exclusive opportunities for hard working students. “[I interned with the Environmental Protection Agency where we] analyzed different water areas. [We went] up in a helicopter, dropped a tube down into the ocean and gathered water samples from different bodies of water. I actually got to go on the helicopter ride,” alumna and current biology professor Dr. Tonia Hermon said.

Some internships may last a summer, semester or a year.

A highly sought-after opportunity is finding a paid internship, which allows students to earn money while working under the direction of many knowledgeable ca-

reer professionals.

“I was a ‘fish’s intern’ that worked as an aquarist assistant at the Virginia Aquarium. I also photographed and video recorded around the aquarium. Although it was unpaid, I enjoyed the experience of an unfamiliar, but friendly working environment,” senior biology major Terry Jernigan said.

Some students are simply unaware of the opportunities available to them. The best way to get an internship or volunteering opportunity is to be diligent in the search for the perfect experience.

Using resources and speaking with the department heads is important in finding the right working opportunity.

“I’m interning in the sociology department under Dr. Brisgone and Dr. Perkins. I run errands and [work on]

other related projects. I’m also a teacher’s assistant for my professor’s social science classes. I really enjoy it because of the field experience and things I learn from my supervisors,” junior sociology major Terrion Smith said.

Internships and volunteering provide many benefits

for both the organization and the student.

For more information on internships and volunteer opportunities offered by the university and how to apply for them, visit www.nsu.edu and search the Career Services homepage. You can also reach out to your department head or advisor.

Interning and volunteering helps students explore the world of work in a professional setting, clarify career objectives, develop a professional network, enhance their marketability, and gain relevant hands-on experience. Photo by Tykhari Coles

Be smart and safe while holiday shopping Malaun House

Many believe that holiday shopping is one of the best things about the season, other than spending time with family and eating delicious

foods. The day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, is normally when a lot of people begin their holiday shopping.

“My family and I go out ev-

With Thanksgiving around the corner, Spartans will start their holiday shopping soon after. Photo by Tykhari Coles

ery Black Friday and it is so much fun because we go to all the malls and stores and just shop until we can’t stay awake anymore,” freshman music major Anya Tisdale said.

Some shoppers believe that Black Friday is only a scam to get people to come out and spend their money.

Many places have sales and discounts; however, the only items that seem to be marked down tremendously are electronics. Places like Walmart, Target and Best Buy are usually flooded with people camping outside in line waiting for the doors to open.

“Last year was my first year

going out after Thanksgiving and it was ridiculous.

I saw adults fighting over televisions and game systems, people getting arrested for shoplifting and workers getting trampled after cutting back the caution tape that blocked certain aisles,” sophomore mass communication major Jorden Alexander said.

Must buys for this season seem to be electronics such as the new iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. A lot of young people like to keep up with the latest electronics just as much as they like to keep up with the latest fashion.

“This holiday I want clothes

and shoes more than anything. I already got the new iPhone when it came out in September. I know this season leather is really in and layering your clothes too, so I want lots of blazers and jackets,” junior elementary education major Patricia Neblett said.

While shopping or walking to the parking lot, many people are either robbed or attacked because they are not paying attention to their surroundings. When shopping during the holidays, always remain aware of all surroundings; shop smart and carefully.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

SPARTAN ECHO | Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504 | NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

11.14.14

Spartan Lifestyle

Spiritual wellness may be controversial on campus Malaun House

Religion has and likely will always be a very controversial topic on college campuses across the nation.

Many students have their own religion or belief system prior to attending college. The only question is: how many students actually remain con-

With the different religions that students hold, there are a few fellowship organizations they can join or they can maintain their religious background from home. Photo by Tykhari Coles

scious of their beliefs in the midst of college chaos and diversity?

“I could say that it is not easy being on a campus where the common practice is Christianity, but I’ve gone my whole life through schools and jobs where that was the case, so I am basically used to it. I think that no matter a person’s religion, whether it is majority or not, you should hold tight to your beliefs and not let anyone make you feel ashamed of it because it’s not what they practice,” senior early childhood education major Cleopatra El said.

Many universities offer different clubs and organizations that support students’ spiritual and religious beliefs.

There is also a Greek fraternity named Alpha Nu Omega that was founded for those of

the Christian faith, and another non-Greek organization named Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship.

“I’m a Christian and I believe in the Bible, but certain things are questionable...It is just a constant battle between my Christian self and my worldly self and I’m always trying to figure out where I truly stand with my religion,” junior English major Roshad McPherson said.

Though there is not many other organizations on campus that focus on other religions, students are always welcome to research information on how to start their own religious groups. The process of becoming an independent student organization may be strenuous, but it can allow students to incorporate their own ideas into actual groups

that can make a difference on campus.

“I wouldn’t mind starting a group for Muslims. I was not raised to practice the Muslim faith, but as I started to learn about it, I became interested... it would be cool if everyone with a common interest could come together for more than just Christianity,” sophomore biology major Andre Roberson said.

Many people believe that being religious is the only method of obtaining spiritual wellness; however, some use meditation, prayer, dance, exercise or even writing in a journal for spiritual and personal growth. There are many methods to practicing spiritual wellness on campus; students just have to find what best fits their personalities and beliefs.

NSU back on track, a letter from President Moore

Dear University Faculty, Staff and Alumni, Earlier in the year during the State of the University Address, I outlined several strategies that Norfolk State University must implement to forge onward as a quality institution of higher learning. I explicitly stated that everything we do at this institution must be student-centered and geared toward the upward trajectory of this great institution. As such, I am providing you with an update on where the University stands on our financial reporting requirements and fiscal stability.

I am very pleased to report that Norfolk State University has completed its financial audits for fiscal years 2011, 2012, and 2013. We also expect to have the fiscal year 2014 audit

completed by mid-December.

This is a critical milestone for the University—especially when you reflect on the headlines in news reports one year ago regarding our inability to complete financial audits on time and NSU being placed on warning by the regional accreditor as a result. In 14 months, we have become current in our financial reporting requirements and by Jan. 1, 2015, the University will have completed its fiscal year 2014 audit at least 5 months in advance. While this accomplishment is worthy of celebration, there is still much work to be done. We will continue on the path of having current financial statements and audits so that completion of financial audits are the norm.

With regard to ensuring the

fiscal stability of the institution, we have produced a balanced budget, instituted a financial monitoring system, and significantly increased our fundraising efforts. In the past 14 months, a comprehensive budgeting process was implemented with the necessary staff training and opportunities for providing input by all of our stakeholders. The financial staff and I conduct regular analysis of the budget to search for increased efficiencies and ways to better serve our primary clients—the students.

We have updated our policies and procedures and continue to assess our performance.

The University has raised more than $3.3 million in our I AM NSU campaign and expects to receive additional investments by year’s end. I am grateful for

your participation in this year’s campaign and ask for your continued financial support.

The upcoming months are critical to our success as a University. Our progress will be evaluated by the regional accreditor and if there are remaining items to address, we will do so. Irrespective of the outcome, Norfolk State University has made significant progress over the past 14 months and we will continue to work diligently to ensure the success of this institution. I ask that you help us by sharing the wonderful things happening at Norfolk State University with others and encourage your friends and family to become a part of the Spartan family.

Forging Onward, Eddie N. Moore, Jr. Interim President and CEO

7 editors Jason Gill Editor-inChief

Danielle Kirsh Online/ Managing Editor

Antonio Garland News Editor

Malaun House Lifestyle Editor

Trenton Fouche’ Entertainment Editor

Tykhari Coles Multimedia Editor Kallie Gould Graphic Design/ Layout Editor It’s not too late to get involved with the Echo!

We meet every Tuesday and Thursday in room 344 at 12:30 pm. ALL majors welcome.

SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu

Spartan Entertainment

8

11.14.14

Dear White People a satirical film on race in America Chantelle Polite

Provocative and witty, “Dear White People” is a satirical independent film from director Justin Simien that covers the subject of race in America’s perceived “post-racial” society.

The film takes place at the fictional Ivy League institution of Winchester University through the perspective of four African-American students, Sam White (Tessa Thompson), an assertive ra-

dio DJ and extroverted radical, Lionel Higgins (Tyler James Williams), an aspiring journalist who happens to be gay, Troy Fairbanks (Brandon P. Bell), the son of the Dean of Student Affairs and Colandrea Conners (Teyonah Parris), a fiery, high maintenance diva from Chicago.

Simien’s impression of America’s “post-racial” society can easily be compared to that of director Spike Lee’s

Gone Girl: Best film of the year…so far Briana Stanley

“Gone Girl” is art and entertainment, a thriller and an issue, and a spookily assured audience picture. It is also a film that shifts emphasis and perspective so many times that you may feel as though you’re watching five short movies laced together, each transforming into the next.

At first, “Gone Girl” seems to tell the story of a man who might or might not have killed someone and is so closed off and alienating that even people who believe in his innocence can’t help but wonder. His name is Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck). He’s a college professor and a blocked writer. His unhappy wife Amy (Rosamund Pike) disappears one day, prompting local cops to open a missing person’s case that becomes a murder investigation after three days pass without word from her.

Amy and Nick seemed like a happy couple, but were things ever really all that sunny? If they weren’t, which spouse was the main

source of bitterness? Can we trust what Nick tells the homicide detectives (Kim Dickens and Patrick Fugit) who investigate Amy’s case?

Can we trust what Amy tells us, via her diary? Are they both lying? The film raises these questions and others, and the movie answers nearly all of them, frequently in boldface, all-caps sentences that end with shouting.

In my opinion, “Gone Girl” is the best film of the year so far. It is complex, it is creepy, it is ironic and it is some of Fincher’s best work. His film tells the nightmare story of Nick and Amy Dunne, a fairy-tale couple whose marriage has soured into a thickened stew of resentment, hostility and possibly murder. This movie balanced beautiful writing, breathless pacing and set up plot twists that landed with a sucker punch. Anyone who loved “Gone Girl” the book will walk out of “Gone Girl” the movie with a sick grin on his or her face. It is a “must see” film.

early 90’s films and his approach on bringing awareness to racial issues between white and minority cultures.

Simien portrays this through the film’s sparkling dialogue, for which he won the Special Jury Award for Breakthrough Talent at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.

The film gets its title from the radio show Sam White hosts titled “Dear White People.” The movie immediately displays its satire as White states over the radio, “Dear white people, the amount of black friends required to not seem racist has just been

raised to two. Sorry, your weed man Tyrone doesn’t count,” continuing on about other black and white paradoxes, such as the touching of a black person’s hair by a white person in utter fascination being unacceptable.

“Dear White People” is in no way a perfect film; however, it does an excellent job of portraying privileged youth in a college setting. Although the topic at hand is literal racism, each student is portrayed to be working toward a relatable goal: fitting in.

Each character in the film has their own independent

goals when it comes to finding themselves, but come together richly to ignite the flame that is Simien’s voice on racial issues. Tessa Thompson’s character of Sam White portrays this through her characters radical behavior and wordy dialogue each time she gives a lengthy, opinionated conversation.

As an independent film, “Dear White People” certainly had its flaws, but for a film that modernizes the portrayal of social issues of America’s youth, it certainly is a mustsee film.

NSU Theater pays tribute to Whitney Houston Trenton Fouche’

NSU Theater kicked off its fall season with an impressive showing. Paying homage to a legendary icon, “A Special Musical Tribute to Whitney Houston” gave fans of the late singer a chance to relive her legacy. Performing some of her biggest hits throughout her illustrious career, the show’s star, Desire’ Gaston, gave a remarkable performance.

“It was really good. I can honestly say I didn’t expect it to be such a great performance,” said junior sociology major Kevin Ealey. “I’m glad I went.”

The show, directed by Dr. Stockard, brought life into a program that had been deeply impacted by the sudden death of its previous director, Dr. Murray. After completing his fifth year as an associate professor at Alabama State University, Stockard made the move to NSU to replace Murray.

“I made a visit to Norfolk

NSU pays tribute to Whitney Houston. Photo from www.instagram.com/nsutheatre

State before I considered coming and when I got here, I enjoyed the campus,” said Stockard. “I saw potential to build a stronger theater program.”

Senior nursing major Corasha Dent, who played Whitney Houston’s mother in the tribute, expressed her pleasure with the show and the theater’s program.

“I was very excited,” said Dent. “When I made the decision to get involved with

NSU Theater in fall 2011, it was one of the best collegiate decisions I ever made.

Whitney was great, we all did well.”

“A Special Tribute to Whitney Houston” is the first of many exciting shows set for the fall 2014 and spring 2015 seasons. NSU also plans to premiere its renditions of “A Raisin in the Sun,” “For Colored Girls” and “Dreamgirls.”

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