the rocket A's dominate other grades by
Friday January 29, 2016 • Volume 99, Issue Number 13 • An Independent, Student-Run Newspaper
www.theonlinerocket.com
45 percent in fall semester By Haley Barnes News Editor
During the fall 2015 semester, Slippery Rock University students earned a grand total of 18,690 A's, which has been a common trend at the university for several years. There were a total of 41,238 grades awarded during the fall semester, where 45.32 percent of that total were A's. There was a total of 11,957 B's, 5,377 C's, 1,589 D's and 1,191 F's. The remaining 2,434 grades reflect incompletes, no credits, passes and withdraws. Eliott Baker, executive director of academic records and summer school, explained that the grade distribution reflects both undergraduate students and graduate students, as the office does not collect that data separately. He said that on average most graduate students are earning all A's and B's because those students already have a degree and are more serious, as well as the fact that they have to maintain a minimum of a 3.0 GPA to avoid academic probation. He explained that it is more accurate to look at the breakdown of cumulative QPAs between freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors. Baker said that after the fall semester, freshmen males averaged a cumulative QPA of 2.719 and freshmen females averaged a cumulative QPA of 3.007, with an average total of a 2.880 cumulative QPA between the genders. "The same students had supposedly a 3.4 high school grade point average, so you can say well 'grades are increasing', but if our average freshman had a 3.4 grade point average in high school and at the end of their first semester, they have a 2.88, you get a sense of perhaps, how more rigorous the grading in college is," he noted. "Now is there grade inflation in high school? I don't know." Sophomore males earned an average cumulative QPA of 2.880, while sophomore females earned an
Hoverboards raise safety concerns across campus By Chris Gordon Assistant News Editor
Slippery Rock students have been asked to refrain from gliding to class as the university reviews a safety policy regarding the use of newly popular hoverboards on campus. " Wh i l e t he s e d i s c u s s i ons continue and in the interest of safety, which is always a top priority, we are asking that staff, faculty and students refrain from either bringing a hoverboard to campus or using a hoverboard on campus," Robb King, the associate executive director of communication and public affairs at SRU, said. On Januar y 12, students received an email from SRU President Cheryl Norton issuing the advisory. "The university cabinet is currently reviewing a policy dealing with the use and storage of hoverboards on campus," the email read.
SEE UNIVERSITIES PAGE A-2
Academic records data shows that A's have been the highest earned grades by students for several years. GRAPHIC BY KARLEIGH SANTRY
This graphic demonstrates the 2015 fall semester grade distribution. A's account for 45.32 percent of the grades. Eliott Baker, executive director of academic records and summer school, explained that the grade distribution reflects the grades earned by both undergraduate and graduate students.
average cumulative QPA of 3.174, averaging a total of 3.041 between the genders. Baker explained that as a student continues their studies at SRU, academic records often sees that QPAs increase, as male juniors earned an average QPA of 2.968, female juniors earned an average
QPA of 3.244, male seniors earned an average QPA of 3.087 and female seniors earned an average QPA of 3.384. SEE PROFESSORS PAGE A-3
Health center offers database for students to communicate with nurses, obtain documents By Daniel DiFabio Rocket Contributor
Student Health Services introduced a new online web portal where students can complete their health histories, communicate with nurses and be reminded of scheduled appointments. Laura Hawkins, nurse supervisor, said access to the portal is easy and geared towards new students with access being sent out in admission letters although any SRU student can access the portal. “Incoming students are going to be able to get onto the computer, sign onto the portal using their SRU ID and password and can electronically send us their health information,” Hawkins said. SRU students can also use the portal to access their immunization records or talk to their healthcare provider. “When a healthcare provider wants to talk to the student we can send them a message in their SRU email that will give them the URL to get the provider’s message,” Hawkins said. Renee Bateman, health promotion coordinator, said the portal is nice because it makes it easier to find the information instead of having to carry hard paper. Students can also use the portal to see their lab results.
“Normally if you get lab results we call you to come pick them up and you need documentation but now a health care provider can send something through the portal and you won’t ever have to come to the health center to pick it up,” Bateman said. Student Health Services can see if a student hasn’t reviewed their lab results and can tell them they’re available. Students can also sign various forms from the portal, including a privacy form and a permission for treatment consent form. Hawkins said the portal has the potential to expand, so Student Health Services can offer the ability for students to self-schedule from the portal itself. Bateman said Student Health Services will continue to take feedback from students on how easy the portal is to access and what other updates they would like to see added. Students can give feedback in person or email either Bateman or Hawkins. Student feedback also helped solve a minor problem with the portal, with Student Health Services discovering that students could only access the portal on SRU Wi-Fi. This is a temporary thing and will be changed. “We’re willing to work with our students and willing to hear what else they want,” Bateman said. The portal has been successful, with most of the students actively using it right now being close patients. “There are a lot of students getting onto it and looking around, exploring and getting familiar with it,” Hawkins said.
No Diversity In Academy Awards
Senior Focused On PSAC Title
SRU Students Give Out Free Hugs
A Rocket staffer weighs in on the lack of nominations for black actors. Page B-2
Senior track and field jumper Ashley West continues to dominate the PSAC. Page C-1
SRU students go through Dance Floor Theory training to encourage campus involvement Page D-2
NEWS
A-2
January 29, 2016
Universities enforce ban to protect students P
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Hoverboards have been banned from the university due to the harm they may cause to users.
Continued from Page A-1
Norton emphasized the importance of safety, as hoverboards have been known to catch fire, and asked students to refrain from bringing them to campus. The University of Pittsburgh has also moved to ban the motorized balance boards, asking students via email to refrain from "riding, charging or plugging in a hoverboard in a university-owned housing facility." NPR reported that hoverboards are prone to catching fire due to a flammable electrolyte in their lithium-ion batteries. Many common devices, such as laptops and cellphones, also use these batteries, but those in hoverboards must be much
INDEX Blotter.................A-4 Opinion................B-1 Comics...................D-4
Sports...................C-1 Campus Life.............D-1
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stronger in order to move people around, NPR reported. Farrell Patterson, a senior social work major at SRU, said hoverboards are not safe. "My sister got one for Christmas," she said. "There's a hole in the wall from my dad's foot and another from where the hoverboard flew out from under him." As for the fire concern, Patterson said the battery of her sister's board had melted. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is currently investigating 40 fires attributed to hoverboard use, Consumer Reports stated on January 27. The office of university public relations was unable to provide details of the new hoverboard policy.
ROCK NOTES
BLACK HISTORY MONTH The opening ceremony for Black History Month will be Feb. 2 at common hour at the Smith Student Center Theater. The opening ceremony guest speaker is renowned master printmaker Professor Curlee Holton whose collaborative art will be displayed in the Gault Art Gallery until Feb. 25.
To submit a Rock Note please send your announcement by 6 p.m. Wednesday to Haley Barnes at hmb1006@sru.edu or to rocket. news@sru.edu. The Rocket does not guarantee that all requests will be published in the paper.
HOPE IS HIRING The HOPE Peer Educators are now accepting applications for the 2016-2017 academic school year. Applications are due to the Protection Connection, located in the Health Center, by Feb. 12. Students can direct all questions by inquiring at the Protection Connection or emailing srupeers@gmail.com
SHOUT OUT FOR THE HUMANITIES Call for student submissions to SRU's "Shout Out For the Humanities" Contest on Feb. 19 at 2 P.M. in Smith Student Center 319. Entry forms are available in the Stone House Center for Public Humanities Office in Spotts World Culture Building 212 O. Winners will be entered into National Humanities Contest March 1, 2016.
CONDOM FASHION SHOW The HOPE Peer Educators are hosting the first Condom Fashion Show at SRU on Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. Teams can stop by the Protection Connection, located in the Health Center, to sign up. Teams will recieve a starter kit of 500 nonlubed condoms, fishing wire, sewing needles, fabric, duct tape and sewing pins.
NEWS
January 29, 2016
A-3
POLICE BLOTTER January 17- Harrison Rabenold, January 23- John Roach, 19, was 18, was charged with an alcohol charged with an alcohol violation violation in Building E. after he was found passed-out in a car parked in the Health Center January 17- Jacob Barnes, 19, staff lot. was charged with an alcohol January 17- Police were called violation in Building E. for the smell of marijuana in Building B. The case is under January 24- Police were called investigation. to Building B for an alcohol January 17- Zachary Beneke, violation. Charges are pending. 19, was charged with an alcohol violation in Building E. January 22- Caitlyn Kilmer, 18, was charged with an alcohol January 24- Police were called violation in Watson Hall. for an assault in Building F. Januar y 17Michael The victim chose not to press Hockensmith, 18, was charged charges, but wished to have the with an alcohol violation in January 22- Caitlin Luettgen, case documented. Building E. 18, was charged with an alcohol violation in Watson Hall. Januar y 26- An ambulance January 17- Matthew Montanaro, was dispatched to Watson Hall 19, was charged with an alcohol January 22- James Smith, 18, was and transported a person to the violation in Building E. charged with an alcohol violation hospital. in Watson Hall.
Campus
Borough December 17- Cheyenne Goodin was arrested for aggravated assault, simple assault, disorderly conduct and reckless endangerment after an incident along Cross Street. Two juveniles were also charged in this incident. December 30- Steven McGinty was arrested for retail theft at Dollar General.
Compiled by Chris Gordon
SGA approves $2 million student activity fee budget By Chris Gordon Assistant News Editor
Slipper y Rock's Student Government Association approved a new budget for student activities and increased the base funding given to new clubs and organizations Monday night. The 2016-2017 Student Activity Fee Budget, amounting to $2,054,400, consists of all the funds SGA can give to clubs and organizations throughout the year, Vice President of Finance Michael Farah said. "About 34 percent of this budget goes toward athletics and the rest is set aside for other clubs and organizations," Farah said. "This budget represents a zero percent increase from last year," he continued, explaining that, because of steady enrollment rates at SRU and the lack of a state budget, SGA could not anticipate an increase in funding via the student activity fee. Though last year's budget was raised by
seven percent, SGA Adviser Wendy Leitera explained that increases are uncommon and that the 2015-2016 budget was the first raise in at least two years. SGA also voted to increase first-time funding for new clubs and organizations from $250 to $500 in an effort to enable new groups to host events and rely less on new initiative requests, Farah explained. "This will also apply to any organization currently funded by SGA that receives less than $500," he said. Additionally, SRU's Winter Guard was given $8,085.85 for travel expenses and the Women's Solar Center was recognized as a new club during Monday's meeting, which was the first of the new semester. Representatives from the winter guard team, which consists of 25 members, said that they had already fundraised on their own, but that more money was needed to rent buses and a van for supplies.
Members of the Women's Solar Center said their new club will work toward empowering women in business by conducting resume workshops, enlisting guest speakers, teaching negotiation techniques and aligning female business students with female mentors. SGA filled a recently vacated senate seat Monday night when Nathaniel Henkle, a finance major, was elected as a commuter senator. "Nathaniel has always shown a lot of enthusiasm about SGA, so as soon as the position opened up I went to him," SGA President Logan Steigerwalt said. Steigerwalt proclaimed February to be "Black History Month" during the meeting, in a message that was approved by SGA and lent support to relevant groups on campus. The next SGA meeting will be held on February 8 in the Smith Student Center Theater at 8:45 p.m.
Professors explain their in-class grading standards Continued from Page A-1
Ho w e v e r, Baker explained that the data reflects that not even average seniors at SRU are earning the average 3.4 QPA that they used to in high school. "There's a multitude of different theories," Baker said, noting the high A trend at SRU. "There's one theory that says professors are easier." Associate professor in special education and department chair Joseph Merhaut graduated from SRU in 1989 with a degree in special education. Merhaut said he believes that the high A count reflects the fact that the university offers outstanding professors and recruits higher achieving students. "Earning A's in college is as feasible as the student wants it to be," he said. "Students who are organized, study everyday and prepare well for tests can earn all A's. It is highly unlikely that many students will earn all A's though." Merhaut said that when he attended SRU, he earned a QPA of a 3.1, but did well in his major courses. As for grading his students, Merhaut said that he uses a 90, 80, 70 and 60 percent scale for quizzes and tests. He said he also provides his students with rubrics for projects, so his expectations are clearly understood. "Many students earn A's
GRAPHIC BY KARLEIGH SANTRY
This graphic demontrates the distribution of QPAs of students based on academic year. The data suggests that the longer SRU students continue their studies at the university, the higher their QPA is. However, the average students are not earning the QPAs that they earned in high school.
in my classes, but you have to keep in mind that these classes are in their major so their interest level is very high," he explained. "I have given the entire gamut of grades however." Mark Shotwell, associate professor of biology, said that he has been tracking the relationship between grades and QPAs since
1997. "For example, the average cumulative QPA was 2.835 in 1997," he said. "It was 3.077 in 2.15, Based off of qualifications of entering freshmen have increased over that time, but in my opinion, [it's] not enough to explain the more than 0.2 increase in average QPA."
He said he believes that there is a better faculty at the university now, but he doesn't think that fully explains the increase. He said it is possible that some professors may have lower expectations than other professors, as tenure is an incentive. "It is also the case that grade inflation has
occurred at colleges and universities across the countr y, so something is going on across the country," Shotwell said. Shotwell said his standards as a biology professor are high, but that it is not impossible for his students to earn A's in his classes.
O
OPINION
Our View
Easy A’s limit student potential
OPINION rocket.letters@sru.edu Volume 99, Number 13
220 Eisenberg Classroom Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania 16057 Phone: Fax: E-mail:
(724) 738-4438 (724) 738-4896 rocket.letters@sru.edu
EDITORIAL BOARD Janelle Wilson
Editor-in-Chief
Haley Barnes
News Editor
Amber Cannon
Campus Life Editor
Ryan Barlow
Sports Editor GRAPHIC BY KENDALL SCOTT / THE ROCKET
Rebecca Dietrich Victoria Davis
Photo Editor Copy/ Web Editor
Chris Gordon
Assistant News Editor
Emma Pfeifer
Assist. Campus Life Editor
Cody Nespor
Assistant Sports Editor
Kendall Scott
Assistant Photo Editor
Amanda Salvia
Assist. Copy/Web Editor
Emily Brown
Multimedia Reporter
Mark Zeltner
Faculty Adviser
ADVERTISING STAFF Karleigh Santry
Advertising Manager
ABOUT US The Rocket is published by the students of Slippery Rock University every Friday during the academic semester with the exception of holidays, exam periods and vacations. Total weekly circulation is 3,000. No material appearing in The Rocket may be reprinted without the written consent of the Editor-in-Chief. The Rocket receives approximately 5 percent of its funding from the SGA Student Activity fee paid each semester by students. All other income is provided through the sale of advertising. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling (724) 7382643 or by emailing rocket.ads@sru.edu.
CORRECTIONS If we make a substantial error, we want to correct it. If you believe an error has been made, call The Rocket newsroom at (724) 738-4438. If a correction is warranted it will be printed in the opinion section.
SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions to The Rocket are available. Subscriptions are $20 per academic semester and $35 for the full academic year. Inquiries should be directed to the Editor-in-Chief at the address listed here.
Ac a d e m i c a c h i e v e m e nt follows students outside of college into their future career fields. If students graduate with a GPA higher than 3.5, they are recognized as honor students. But if students conduct themselves less than honorably, (e.g. turning in assignments late, if at all, missing class and copying other students’ work, while maintaining a 3.5,) can they still be considered “honor students?” According to the data from SRU’s academic re cords, they can. A’s are the highest occurring grades for the fall semester of 2015, accounting for over 45 percent of total grades given. So 45 percent of our students must be extraordinarily driven and gifted, right? If you’ve been in some of the classes our staff has been in, then the answer is a unanimous “no.” Being a disciplined student requires a lot of focus and dedication, and demands effort. If a person is only putting in an average amount of work, then they should get a grade that represents that. To be clear, average students who put out average work are not bad people, but how can professors stamp the same
grade on a person who put in half the work that another more deserving student did? The fact of the matter is that all students who leave SRU in the same major will have the same degree. The job market is slim enough as it is, and employers will not be able to differentiate an ambitious student with 3.5 from a slacker with the same GPA. In this instance, both the motivated graduate and employer are at a disadvantage if the wrong person is hired for the job. If professors aren’t willing to sacrifice an underperforming student’s self esteem for another excellent student’s career marketability, then everyone loses. Educators should be willing to reward students for their hard work, not simply feed their egos. The real world certainly won’t. Every student who leaves a class with an undeserved and overinflated grade is being tricked into believing that they are fully prepared to enter the workforce, and that mediocrity is the standard. This way of thinking will cause more adversity for them in the long run because they will not only enter the workforce unprepared, but will also have to reteach themselves
In the Quad
everything they only partially learned in college just to stay afloat. Inflated GPAs also reflect poorly on the university as a whole. When over 45 percent of the grades earned are A’s, it only shows that the professors don’t demand or exp ect excellence from their students. According to collegefactual. com, in 2014 SRU had a retention rate of 82 percent, higher than the national average at around 72 percent. One might think that this number reflects highly on the university, but retention d o e s n ot e qu a l s tu d e nt success. Is retention really a measure of success, or is it just demonstrative of our university’s ability to push people through despite their lack of work ethic and intellect? Granted, not everyone can be the best at their major or job, but when a professor gives students excellent grades for average work, they deny that student the chance to prove something to themselves. They deny students the opportunity to receive a poor grade and pledge to do better. By saying “good enough” to average work, professors not only limit a student’s academic potential, but also limit their personal potential.
This week’s question: What do you think about hoverboards being banned on campus?
In the Quad is a segment in which random students, faculty and staff are asked for their opinions on a specific topic.
EDITORIAL POLICY The Rocket strives to present a diverse range of opinions that are both fair and accurate in its editorials and columns appearing on the Opinion pages. “Our View” is the opinion of the Editorial Board and is written by Rocket editorial board members. It reflects the majority opinion of The Rocket Editorial Board. “Our View” does not necessarily reflect the views of Slippery Rock University, its employees or its student body. Columns and cartoons are drafted by various individuals and only reflect the opinions of the columnists.
LETTERS POLICY The Rocket welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns, but does not guarantee their publication. The Rocket retains the right to edit or reject any material submitted. Submitted material becomes the property of The Rocket and cannot be returned. Anonymous submissions will not be published. Those who submit letters must identify themselves by name, year in school, major and/or group affiliation, if any. Please limit letters to a maximum of 400 words. Submit all material by noon Wednesday to: The Rocket, 220 ECB, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa. 16057. Or send it via e-mail to: rocket.letters@sru.edu.
Allie Smith Sophomore Public Health Major Spring Grove, Pennsylvania “I’ve used one before and I think they’re fun but I think the ban is a little much. I think we should be able to use them outside. “
Eric Davies Freshman Digital Media Production Major Dallas, Pennsylvania “I think even if they didn’t ban it, I don’t think hover boards will last long because it is a ridiculous trend.”
Justin Kopf Junior Safety Management Major Cannonsburg, Pennsylvania “I think it’s a good idea because it is a safety hazard. “
OPINION
B-2
January 29, 2016
QUESTION OF
THE WEEK @SRURocket
Lack of diversity in nominees reflects poorly on the Academy Awards
Amber Cannon Amber Cannon is a senior communication major and the Campus Life editor of The Rocket.
The lack of diversity in the nominations for the 88th Annual Academy Awards, or the “Oscars” caused quite a controversy on news outlets and social media all around the world. To say that I was shocked that the nominations included zero black people is an understatement. Not only was I shocked, but I was utterly annoyed and disappointed in The Academy. There are movies and actors and actresses that should have at least gotten the courtesy of a nomination. Whether they win or not doesn’t bother me, but the fact that black people weren’t nominated, when they should have been, baffles me. Let me start by rattling off movies and actors that should have been
nominated. The first actor that I can think of that definitely should have been nominated is Michael B. Jordan for his role as Adonis Creed in “Creed.” His performance in that movie was beyond spectacular. Not only did he embody the boxer Adonis Creed and take actual punches during the movie, but he also got incredibly fit for his role, which anybody can see during the movie. What is even more shocking to me is that Sylvester Stallone, who, of course, played Rocky Balboa in the film, got nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role. He definitely deserves the nomination and I’m not demeaning his performance in the movie, but if the Academy is going to give a nomination to Stallone, who was a supporting actor in the movie, they should have thrown a nomination at Jordan as well. Will Smith also should have received a nomination for his role in “Concussion” and Idris Elba should have been recognized for his role as a West African warlord in “Beasts of No Nation.” Finally, the actors who playedthe rap group “N.W.A” in the film, “Straight Outta Compton,” deserve more recognition than a nomination for Original Screenplay, which in reality, has nothing to do with the actors in the movie. In a video I came across on
Twitter, based on a 2012 LA Times survey, within the 87 years that the Academy has existed and out of the 2,947 awards given, only 31 of those awards have been given to black people. The video also went on to state that no black person has ever won an award for Best Director, despite Ava DuVernay’s great work in “Selma.” Minorities as a whole got snubbed at the Oscars and most of the world knows it. People on Twitter even went as far as creating the hashtag “#OscarsSoWhite.” Even the Academy felt the backlash of their lack of diversity. On Jan. 22, the Academy put out a letter titled, “Academy Takes Historic Action To Increase Diversity.” In the letter, the Academy states,”The Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences approved a sweeping series of substantive changes designed to make the Academy’s membership, its governing bodies, and its voting members significantly more diverse. The Board’s goal is to commit to doubling the number of women and diverse members of the Academy by 2020.” The letter goes on to say, “In order to immediately increase diversity on the Board of Governors, the Academy will establish three new governor seats that will be nominated by the President for three-year terms and confirmed by the Board.”
The fact that the Academy wants to make a change now, after most of the world accused them of being “so white,” is very unethical. The Academy should have already had a diverse range of people on their board to speak up for the minority and them wanting to make this change by 2020 is entirely too far away from now. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that the actors and movies nominated don’t deserve to be. Leonardo DiCaprio’s acting in “The Revenant” was stunning and he absolutely deserves to be nominated and win an Oscar for Actor in a Leading Role. Matt Damon in “The Martian” and Michael Fassbender in “Steve Jobs” definitely deserve to be nominated for their brilliant acting as well. Even though no black actors and actresses received nominations for the Oscars, that doesn’t discredit the amazing work that they have done within the past year. It would be nice for them to at least have been nominated. Hopefully within the next couple years, minorities will be noticed for the great work they do on and off-screen, instead of just being recruited by the Academy to host, present awards and perform. For what it’s worth, I’ll be watching the Oscars just to finally witness Leonardo DiCaprio get the award he so rightfully deserves.
Technological literacy should be encouraged in children long after that I began noticing that kids were getting phones, and other expensive pieces of technology, at much younger ages. Like most of my peers, and adults, at the time, I was opposed to such a practice, because I had been indoctrinated by the rhetoric of my parents. But by now, I’ve changed my stance. I recognize that technological literacy, just like traditional literacy, is absolutely paramount Joseph Szalinski in order for highly functional and competitive adults. Every day, technological advances are Commentary being made at ever increasing rates. It would Joseph Szalinski is a senior be a great injustice to deprive our youth from becoming acquainted with the tools they will creative writing and professional have to be familiar with in the future. writing major Language and tool use are two distinctive traits that distinguish humans from the rest I remember growing up and wanting a of the animal kingdom. Innovation in both cellphone. My parents were opposed to the of these fields is evidence of our still onidea, clinging to their utilitarian approach going evolution. It is only fair to suspect that of having a reason for having a phone in the languages will change and die, and technology first place. Phones were for emergencies only, will become more and more complex. In not for playing games and staying in touch regards to the latter, users of said technology with friends. My sister got her phone when must be instructed in using it at early ages in she started driving when she was sixteen; order to keep up with all of the skills one must likewise, I received my first phone when I possess in our modern age. For instance, there started working at thirteen. It wasn’t much are now toys for toddlers that instruct them in
the ways of writing code. Technology is at the center of our everyday operations. From the machines people use in their workplaces; the video games and tablets we use to entertain ourselves, someone has to maintain those things; to the technological resources schools employ for instruction. To be ignorant of how to appropriately use the technology at our disposable is equivalent to being ignorant of how to balance a checkbook or change a tire. Technological literacy is important at every level, whether that be “high-technology” like computers, or even “low-technology” such as hammers and the like. Growing up, there was a period of time when my family was without a computer. All of my friends became privy to how to use all sorts of programs, while I couldn’t even create simple documents. This period of technological ignorance has definitely led to ramifications later in my life. If such a gulf could be created with the technology of the early 2000’s, then imagine the irreparable damage done when kids these days are technologically illiterate, considering how quickly technology progresses presently.
B-5
January 29 , 2016
Christopher Esper, DO, FACOS Jon Henwood, DO, FACOS Pablo Giuseppucci, MD, FACS Christopher Myers, MD, FACS
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C
COMICS Sharing Stalls
By Molly Huey
COMICS
Today's Birthday (01/29/16). Your touch seems golden this year. Strengthen foundations, especially for shared accounts. Spring profits surge, opening doors for a two-year study and travel phase (after Jupiter enters Libra, 9/9). A breakthrough in family finances over autumn impacts your cash flow. Secure what you have. Share love and gratitude. To get the advantage, check the day's rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging. Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is a 9 -Professional advice comes in handy. Don't take on more work before handling what you have. Keep your head low, and get quietly productive. Provide well for family. Follow the rules exactly. Forgive miscommunications. Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 9 -- Practice your speech ahead of time. At least outline what you want to say. Don't gamble needlessly. Partner with someone experienced. Sell something you've made. Creative design makes it easier. Consider the words to express its benefits.
Molly Huey is a freshman dance and communication major from Warren, Pennsylvania
Best in Show
By Phil Juliano
Brewster Rockit: Space Guy
By Tim Rickard
Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is an 8 -- You can have fun without spending a ton. Postpone chores. Gather together. Get some music involved. Money saved is money earned. Share a movie and some food. Relax and love creeps in. Cancer (June 21-July 22) -- Today is a 7 -- It's busy at home. Help others to see the bigger picture. Misunderstandings are possible. Take the time to sort them out. Apply elbow grease to a home improvement. Create a safe path forward. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Friends are there for you. Let them know what you need. Misunderstandings are possible ... keep your patience and speak clearly. Keep it simple. Wait to pass a temporary setback. Read and write. Avoid stepping on anyone. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- Friends are there for you. Let them know what you need. Misunderstandings are possible ... keep your patience and speak clearly. Keep it simple. Wait to pass a temporary setback. Read and write. Avoid stepping on anyone. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 9 -- There's extra cash available over the next two days. Make preparations carefully. Financial miscommunications could get costly ... take it slow and clearly. Don't let it destroy your domestic tranquility. It's a choice to be grateful. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- You're getting stronger today and tomorrow. Join a knowledgeable group. Do work that nobody will see. Don't give up. Move ahead slowly. Use logic and new methods to make life easier. Things may not go as planned. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Relax in peace and quiet over the next few days. Keep a low profile, in frugal simplicity. Think about the past, and make future plans. Take time to notice the sunset. Give thanks and count your blessings. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is an 8 -Career matters occupy you. Prepare for a test or a challenge. Enjoy a business trip, conference or group event. Choose your words carefully. Don't believe everything you hear. Review and research details later. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 9 -- Your studies are proving fruitful. Take a trip for a deeper look. Enjoy museums, libraries and archives. Bring along a good conversationalist. Play up the love factor. Write up your conclusions. Share an exploration. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is a 7 -- It could get messy. Ignore gossip. Play the game exactly by the book. Tackle detailed chores today or tomorrow. Keep it practical. Take a step away and speak with someone you love. Recharge by candlelight. (Astrologer Nancy Black continues her mother Linda Black's legacy horoscopes column. She welcomes comments and questions on Twitter, @lindablack. For more astrological interpretations visit Linda Black Horoscopes and www.nancyblack.com) (c)2015 bY NANCY BLACK. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Bliss
By Harry Bliss
B-3
January 29, 2016
S SPORTS
INSIDE SPORTS
Online Exclusive
Rock Baseball
The indoor women's track and field team recorded 24 PSAC qualifying marks and two NCAA marks at the YSU College Invite.
The Rock was ranked eighth in the Atlantic Region in the NCBWA preseason poll.
See theonlinerocket.com
See Page C-3
Raising the bar
PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOHN PAPA
Senior jumper Ashley West clears the high jump bar at the Bison Outdoor Classic last season. West finished 2015 as a first team All-American high jumper with a 1.74 meter personal best height.
Strong start bodes well for Rock senior By Cody Nespor Assistant Sports Editor
Despite being named a first team AllAmerican at the completion of the 2015 season, women's track and field standout Ashley West is not changing her approach during the 2016 season. West, a senior high jumper from Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, attended Pine-Richland High School in Pittsburgh before beginning her collegiate career at Slippery Rock in 2012. West had attended camps at SRU previously, so the familiarity she had with the coaching staff helped sway her decision. SRU head coach John Papa said West has
become a team leader on and off the field. "Ashley's a leader in many areas. Obviously she's a leader in performance as she does extremely well in an important event," Papa said. "She's also a great leader in terms of work ethic and doing the little things. She's really matured and realized that continued success takes hard work and effort." West has showed up big in her first three seasons at The Rock, asserting herself as one of the best jumpers in the entire Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). In her first year at Slippery Rock, West was invited to both the indoor and outdoor PSAC Championships as well as the NCAA Division II outdoor National Championship. She placed second during indoor and third
during outdoor at the PSAC Championships and went on to finish 18th at nationals. West was again invited to the conference Championships in her sophomore year, this time taking third place at the indoor competition and second in the outdoor circuit. Unsurprisingly, West returned to the PSAC championships in 2014-15 and was also invited to return to the national competition. She finished in second at both conference competitions and improved to eighth place at nationals. The top ten finish at the National Championships secured West a spot on the 2015 NCAA All-American first-team. SEE HIGH, PAGE C-2
Rock basketball drains Lakers in 65-54 victory By Jordyn J. Bennett Rocket Contributor
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET
Senior guard Malcolm Richardson drives towards the hoop against Pitt-Johnstown during the team's 72-70 win on Jan. 20. Richardson is averaging 14.7 points per game in 29.7 minutes played.
A second half offensive surge led by senior guard Malcolm Richardson helped Slippery Rock’s men’s basketball (11-10 overall, 6-9 PSAC) sweep the season series against the Mercyhurst University Lakers (14-5, 11-4) Wednesday night in a 6554 SRU victory. Rock head coach Kevin Reynolds said it was one of his teams best games of the season. "It sounds pretty simplistic, but in the second half we made the shots," Reynolds said. "I was very happy with the performance." After a slow first half that ended with a 17-16 Rock lead, both teams came out of the locker room shooting more efficient from the field. Both the Rock and the Lakers shot below 30 percent from the field. SEE SRU, PAGE C- 4
SPORTS
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January 29, 2016
Men's track produces top-five finishes at YSU Men's Basketball 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Indiana (PA.) Mercyhurst Edinboro Pitt-Johnstown Clarion slippery rock Seton Hill california (pa.) Gannon
15-5 (12-3) 14-5 (11-4) 12-6 (11-4) 12-7 (8-6) 10-11 (7-8) 11-10 (6-9) 8-11 (6-9) 7-14 (4-11) 4-14 (3-12)
Upcoming games VS Wed. Feb. 3, Morrow Field House, 8 p.m.
at
ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET
Senior heptathlon athlete Nate Zigler competes in the hurdles at the 2015 Spire Mid-West Invite. Zigler hit the PSAC qualifying mark in the 60-meter hurdles during the team's meet on Saturday.
Sat. Feb. 6, Seton Hill University, 3 p.m.
Women's Basketball 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Indiana (PA.) California (PA.) Gannon Edinboro Mercyhurst Seton Hill Slippery Rock Clarion Pitt-Johnstown
14-5 (11-4) 13-5 (11-4) 13-6 (11-4) 14-7 (9-6) 10-11 (8-7) 11-10 (7-8) 10-10 (7-8) 7-14 (7-8) 4-10 (7-13)
Upcoming games vs Sat. Jan. 30, Morrow Field House, 1 p.m.
By Brittany Fagan Rocket Contributor
Slippery Rock University's men's track and field team traveled to Youngstown State University Friday to compete at the YSU College Invite. As a whole, the team produced 20 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) qualifying marks, as well as four finishes in the top five and one event win. "Overall we had a good performance with many individual improvements," Rock head coach John Papa said. Sophomore James Chandler, graduate student Monte Chapman, senior Andrew Schroder and junior Jacob VanHouten took first in the 4x400 meter relay with a time of 3:22.09, a new season best. VanHouten and Chandler also competed in the 400-meter dash hitting PSAC qualifying times of 49.82 and 49.84 taking eighth and ninth place. Freshman Collin Darby and junior Brandon Vanderbrook joined Chapman in the 200-meter dash. All three men hit qualifying times of 22.42, 22.57 and 22.81. Finishing up the last of the sprint events was the 60-meter dash, run by Darby, Vanderbrook and sophomore Noah Bostick with times of 7.03, 7.04 and 7.25. Bostick, senior Nate Zigler and senior Michael Hartos hit PSAC marks in the 60-meter hurdles with times of 8.43, 8.91 and 8.94. Bostick took fifth in the event, followed by Zigler and Hartos in 12th and 14th.
High jump standout expects improvement in final year Continued from Page C 1
vs Wed. Feb. 3, Morrow Field House, 2 p.m.
Standings as of Thurs. Jan. 28 at 1:04 p.m.
Two middle distance runners hit PSAC qualifying marks in the 800-meter run. Senior Ryan Thompson and junior Tyler Palenchak ran times of 1:55.26 and 1:56.15 placing fourth and sixth. Thompson was this week's Male PSAC Athlete of the Week, recognized for his win of the mile run at Edinboro last week, his first time with the honor. Thompson ran a time of 4:18.77, putting him right at the top of all PSAC mile times. "Hopefully, these last two weeks are an indicator of what we can do at PSACs," Thompson said. "We are competing well early in the season but we know we can all improve." On the field side, Bostick competed in the high jump and took seventh with a jump of 1.90 meters. Two Rock competitors hit the PSAC qualifying distance in the long jump. Sophomore Caleb Smithco and senior Marcus Carter jumped distances of 6.67 and 6.48 meters. Smithco and Carter took seventh and 11th. Freshman Jessee Romanchak had a jump of 12.91 meters in the triple jump to earn himself a spot at the Conference meet. JJ Ollio took sixth in the weight throw with a throw of 15.92 meters. He also competed in the shot put where he took second place with a distance of 15.50 meters. Senior Jerrod Galloway took ninth with a distance of 14.10 meters. The Rock will compete next at the SPIRE Midwest Open in Geneva, Ohio, a two-day event this coming Friday and Saturday.
Heading into her senior year at The Rock, West is still looking for improvement. "It's a new season. Last season was last season and this one you have to do better," West said. "Since it's the last season, I'm thinking go hard or go home so I'm going for (personal) records and just to jump higher." One of the things that has eluded West throughout her career is a conference title. Papa thinks this is something Ashley is striving for. "There are a lot of good high jumpers in our conference, but I definitely think she's going to
be trying to win the title," Papa said. "Ashley's been very consistent at a very high level and I think she can take her game to a whole new level." Through two meets in the 2015-16 indoor season, West has already won the high jump event and hit the NCAA provisional qualifying mark for the high jump both times. "I'm hoping (early success this season) will continue," West said. "But you still have to try hard so you can maintain everything." While a invitation to return to the national stage may be on the horizon for Ashley, she is taking her senior year one day at a time just like she has done for her entire career.
SPORTS
January 29, 2016
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Baseball coach gears team up for 2016 By Ryan Barlow Sports Editor
The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) released its preseason rankings poll for the Atlantic Region last Friday, listing the Slippery Rock baseball team in the top 10 at eighth overall. Ahead of SRU are five fellow Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) opponents and two non-conference opponents. Leading the top of the pack was Mercyhurst University, followed by other PSAC programs Millersville and Seton Hill. Winston-Salem State of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association took the fourth spot ahead of Shepherd, East Stroudsburg and West Chester. Slippery Rock settled in at the eighth spot ahead of West Virginia State and Shippensburg. Although Rock baseball coach Jeff Messer said he doesn't pay much attention to these preseason rankings, he does agree that the rankings seem to make sense considering how each team finished the previous season. "We have high expectations for our team each year going in," Messer said. "We know year in and year out we are going to battle with both Mercyhurst and Seton Hill in the division." Messer also stated his team needs to addressesome holes that were left in the roster since losing some key position players and pitchers the previous season, including team ace Kyle Schneider and Division II National Player of the Year semifinalist Adam Urbania. Schneider threw four complete games in 2015 while compiling a 5-4 record with a 5.11 earned run average (ERA) and a team-high 54 strikeouts. Schneider returns to SRU as a graduate assistant coach. Last season, Urbania put up a 34-game hitting streak which ranks 11th all-time in Division II history, along with batting .417 with 50 runs batted in (RBI). Despite the key losses, Messer believes his team has the personnel to compete once again for a PSAC title and cruise its way to a 22nd consecutive winning season. Despite losing a top conference player like Urbania in the outfield, Messer says his team has the potential to have an even stronger defensive unit in the outfield this upcoming season. "You don't replace an Adam Urbania bat, but we think all nine of our players can be just as strong," Messer said. "The biggest jump we have to make this year from last year is our pitching. Yeah, we won 30 games last season, but we had
REBECCA DIEtRICH/THE ROCKET
Junior third baseman/pitcher Preston Falascino awaits a pitch against California (Pa.) last season. Falascino hit .327 with 35 runs, 48 hits, nine home runs and 30 RBIs in 2015.
a team ERA over six, so we really need to do a better job there." Junior Preston Falascino returns for SRU, having started 40 games for The Rock at third base along with seeing substantial time on the mound as a starting pitcher. Falascino hit .327 with 35 runs, 48 hits, nine home runs and 30 RBIs in 2015. On the mound, he went 3-2 with one complete game in 41.1 innings pitched. Sophomore Tyler Walters is back for Slippery Rock after an impressive rookie season where he was named the PSAC-West Freshman of the Year. Walters saw time in both the outfield and as catcher, but Messer believes he see most of his time in the outfield in 2016 to allow senior Alex Bell get more playing time behind home plate. Walters hit .367 last season with 13 home runs, a mark that already has listed him 17th on SRU's all-time home runs list.
Returning on the pitching mound is sophomore Alex Pantuso who made a big impact for the club in 2015. Pantuso threw 38.1 innings as a freshman while boasting a 3-1 overall record. Messer sees Pantuso as one of his team's top starters in 2016 and beyond. "Pantuso had offseason surgery and is looking really strong thus far," Messer said. "If he wasn't the top freshman pitcher in the conference last year then he was pretty darn close to it." Next to Pantuso is redshirt-senior Jon Anderson whom Messer hopes will remain healthy throughout the course of the season. Anderson has a career 4.74 ERA and 9-6 record and will likely be the team's number one starter in the rotation. The Rock's season kicks off on Feb. 13 in Charlotte, North Carolina where it will face Belmont Abbey College of the Conference
Rock can't overcome Mercyhurst despite junior's 28-point effort
KENDALL SCOTT/THE ROCKET
Sophomore Ciara Patterson looks to cut inside against Pitt-Johnstown in the team's 69-55 win on Jan. 20. Patterson is scoring 12.2 points per game, 2.4 assists and 1.9 steals.
By Ryan Barlow Sports Editor
L exi C ar p enter's 28-p oint outing wasn't enough to lift The Rock women's basketball team (10-10 overall, 7-8 PSAC) over Mercyhurst (10-11 overall, 8-7 PSAC) Wednes day e vening, dropping the contest 83-78 for
SRU's eighth conference loss. Carpenter, whose 28 points are a career high, saw 34 minutes of action, while adding three assists. The junior was also able to tally one block. 21 of her 28 points were scored in the second half alone. The other two Slippery Rock players to score in double figures were junior guard Audre y
Stapleton and sophomore Ciara Patterson. Stapleton scored 13 and gathered two steals while Patterson scored 11 points and dished out four assists and three steals. "We just gave up entirely too many points last night," Rock head coach Bobby McGraw said. "We did what it took to win offensively. But when you get out-rebounded by 10 and give up 80 points, nine out of 10 times you're going to lose that game." Senior point guard Erica Aiello was able to put up just five points but tied the team in assists with Patterson at four. Aiello was also able to steal the ball once in her 26 minutes of action. As a team, SRU shot 43.2 percent from the field and 56.3 percent from three-point range. However, The Rock was unable to win the rebounding battle as the Lakers led 39-29 on the boards and outscored the Green and White in second-chance points by 12. SRU's rebounding effort changed dramatically since its big 72-65 win over third place Gannon Sunday, tying the Golden Knights at 42 rebounds and holding them to just eight second-chance points. "Our ability to shoot the basketball has increased greatly over the course of the season," McGraw said. "We can't tie a third place team in rebounds and hold them to just 65 points and then without changing anything strategically in our game plan and give up 83 points to Mercyhurst."
On the other side of the ball, the Lakers were paced by juniors Natalie Piagessi and Angela Heintz. Piagessi led Mercyhurst's scoring with 26 points, two assists and a block. Heintz finished just one point behind Piagessi at 25 but led the Lakers in total minutes played at 39. "We could sit here and watch film of the Cleveland Cavaliers for 50 straight hours and give the team a full scouting report, but no matter what you're not going to be able to stop the Cavaliers," McGraw said. "Natalie Piagessi is that type of player. She's dynamic from the five spot and came from a very good high school program. I voted for her to be all-conference last season for a reason, and she and Heintz were high school teammates at Seton-LaSalle. We did a better job stopping Heintz in the second half by utilizing the scouting report and running her off of the three-point line." Junior Jalin Steel was also able to collect 16 points for Mercyhurst, while busting two Rock possessions with two steals. The Rock's season continues Saturday as it will face a nonconference opponent in Point Park University (15-7 overall, 8-3 KIAC). "This will be Point Park's 'Super Bowl'," McGraw said. "They want to beat a PSAC school. They'll be excited if they can do that, and we don't want to let it happen." Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. at SRU's Morrow Field House.
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SPORTS
January 29, 2016
SRU remains in sixth place following win
Continued from Page C 1
While the Lakers increased its shooting percentage to 33.3 percent in the second half, its players could never hit the shots they needed to. However, The Rock almost couldn’t miss. SRU went 4-4 in three-point field goals, which contributed to a .565 shooting percentage. Two of the three pointers came from Richardson. "If we can have that type of production from him the rest of the year we can win," Reynolds said. "When he plays like that he is an effective player, and when he plays like that it will help us win." Richardson's first half consisted of a low shooting percentage and 6 points, but he changed his game in the second half. Not only was he more efficient from the field by making five of eight of his attempts, the guard’s aggressive play resulted in his increase of opportunity at the foul line that he did not have in the first half. Richardson’s seven made free throws contributed to his 25 points on the evening. With Richardson’s help, The Rock shot 85.7 percent from the free throw line. Redshirt-senior guard Abdul King made eight out of his 10 attempts finishing with a career-high 14 points on the night. Junior forward Chaquille Pratt had eight points of his own, but did most of his work on the board with a team high eight rebounds.
The Lakers’ leading scorer, Damon Jones, was not able to help his team overcome The Rock’s dominant effort. The senior's 15 points came mostly from the free throw line after a poor 33.3 percent outing from the field, well below his average of 51.6 percent. Senior guard Kayode Ajenifuja contributed 10 points along with team highs of seven rebounds and four assists. With this win, SRU stays in sixth place in the PSAC-West and knocks Mercyhurst down from first to second place in the division. Only one game behind fifth place, The Rock has an opportunity to climb the rankings against a tough Edinboro (12-6, 11-4) in its next contest. Reynolds said that the momentum from the win and the slow game-by-game return of senior guard Jamal Gatali. "I think the other guys will rally behind that," Reynolds said. "Jamal is not playing at 100% and when the team sees him out there giving his all, I think that gives them something more to play for." The teams play Wednesday at 8 p.m. at Morrow Field House. With a break over the weekend and more time to practice, The Rock has the opportunity to prepare and rest before facing another one of the top teams in the PSAC-West.
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET
Junior forward Chaquille Pratt puts up a fade away jumper against Pitt-Johnstown on Jan. 20. Pratt averages 11.7 points and 6.8 rebounds a game.
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CAMPUS LIFE
INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE
PT Students Explore China
"Sisters" Feature An SNL Reunion
Three physical therapy students traveled to China for three and a half weeks in December to study abroad and complete a training progam in Beijing.
"The Film Buff" reviews "Sisters" and lets us know whether the movie brought the laughs or crickets and gives us the scoop on the mini SNL reunion in the movie.
See Page D-2
See Page D-3
Giving away "Eyes4Africa" SRU professor donates 2,000 pairs of prescription eyeglasses to Nigeria
PHOTO COURTESTY OF MICHELLE MCCOLLIN Dr. Michelle McCollin helps a Nigerian citizen navigate reading with the new prescipted eyeglasses she took down to Nigeria over winter break.
By Amber Cannon Campus Life Editor
Associate professor of special education Dr. Michelle McCollin recently went to Africa over winter break to donate prescription eyeglasses to the citizens in Nigeria as a part of her mission, “Eyes4Africa.” McCollin said she decided to go to Nigeria because she is initiated in one of the traditional African spiritual practices in Nigeria and has was a spiritual connecton to the country. She also said when she did her DNA testing, she found out that she is 87 percent
African decent and more than 50 percent Nigerian. McCollin first went to Nigeria in the summer of 2012, and has gone several times since then. At that time, she brought 40 pairs of eyeglasses with her. “God laid on my heart and said to just bring some eyeglasses,” McCollin said. “I did some research and found that per capita, Nigeria has the highest rate of blindness in the world, and so, I decided to do the eyeglasses. I do readers, plus prescriptions.” McCollin paid for all of the glasses herself the first time, but the second time around she started to ask for donations. “My first year when I took down 40 pairs of glasses
and I saw what a wonderful response it was, my second year, I took down 600 pairs of glasses, and then last summer, I took down 1,200,” McCollin said. “I held eye clinics for the indigenous people. I literally touched blindness and it brought tears to my eyes because some people didn’t even realize how blind they were.” McCollin said since she is a person of service, a humanitarian and philanthropic by nature, the experience was more humbling than anything.
“Some of the children that I put eyeglasses SEE PROFESSOR, PAGE D-3
New Women's Solar Center hopes to empower, enlighten and inspire By Emma Pfeifer Asst. Campus Life Editor
Women on campus now have a place to go to feel enlightened, empowered and inspired. A new SRU club, The Women’s Solar Center, is an organization created by graduate students in the MBA program, Katelin McCallan and Cheyanne Crevar. Both McCallan and Crevar have been working since October to create an organization that helps prepare women for their future careers. The idea for the organization came from a comparable group called E-Magnify from Seton Hill University. E-Magnify worked to help women with mentoring, business training and counseling. Similar to this group, SRU’s Women’s Solar Center is looking to help women with basic job preparation, networking, building relationships and more. Dr. Diane Galbraith, Dr. Melanie Anderson and Dr. Frances Amatucci have helped Mccallan and Crevar with the creation of this organization. Their goal
for the organization is to start small, then hopefully expand. The Women’s Solar Center is starting with students on campus then bringing in alumni to talk and mentor the members of the organization. After they bring in alumni, the group plans on expanding to outside of the Slippery Rock area to help other women as well. “Women can see each other as threats, but if we can help them build relationships, that would be great,” Galbraith said. The organization is looking to help women support and mentor one another to be successful in their careers. “If we could help even one woman, it would be more than enough,” McCallan said. Galbraith said one of the main priorities of the group is to touch the lives of women in a positive way, so they can, in turn, give back. Dr. Cindy LaCom influenced McCallan in the creating stages of the organization by opening up her eyes to the kind of topics that the group will be focusing on. McCallan touched on the fact that one factor that
prepared her for taking on this organization was having a mentor herself, Dr. Anderson. “I want to hit home that I have been a student at SRU, both undergraduate and graduate, that has had a mentor during my career here, not all students have been as lucky as I have so I hope with this program we can have a close tight knit program that can mentor each other,” McCallan said. The organization was officially recognized as a club by SGA on Monday and they have support from multiple areas including the college of business, professors, the masters program and more. The first meeting will strictly be an informational session in ECB 111 on Feb. 2 at common hour. The meetings from then on will be every other week. The group is planning on hosting six events, two each month up until the month of April. The first hopeful event that is still in the works of planning is bringing in speaker Renee Coyne from career services to talk about salary and negotiation techniques. McCallan said other events that are being planned will involve bringing in alumni
and utilizing their expertise for students, a diversity panel, a LinkedIn workshop and how to market yourself. There will be dues for joining the group. It will be $25 for the semester or $35 for the year. The money will be going towards bringing in speakers, events and conferences. “My involvement is to not only mentor and give back but just make a difference in the community,” Galbraith said. The organization has emailed the entire college and has had 40 responses. “We would be happy with even five members with hopes to expanding later,” Mccallan said. However, the group is not excluding anyone. Both women and men are encouraged to join with any major. “We don’t want to just market to college of business students, we want to market to educators, to history majors, to dancers, because you will be put in situations where you need to go above and beyond and we want to take anyone and have everyone be successful,” McCallan said.
CAMPUS LIFE
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January 29, 2016
Physical Therapy students and faculty experience hands-on training in China
PHOTO COURTESY OF BARBARA BILEK-SAWHNEY Allyson Demetriadis teaches a student about physical therapy techniques in Bejing, China.
By Samantha Figard Rocket Contributor
An SRU professor and three physical therapy students traveled to Beijing, China on Dec. 2 through Dec. 19 to provide care to Beijing citizens, as well as get hands-on training for their major. Billek-Sawhney organized the service trip via a professional colleague who introduced her electronically to their hosts in Beijing. Schmitt committed to the trip that was unlike any traditional classroom setting. “I have always wanted to go on an international service trip for physical therapy, so I was very excited when Dr. Billek-Sawhney presented this opportunity to us," Schmitt said. "This trip was a great opportunity to push myself outside my comfort zone by immersing myself in a different culture
while serving and educating students and practicing professionals in the field of physical therapy." The level of care in rehabilitation facilities in China is not to the same high standard as America. The students and professor that attended the trip were able to teach students the necessary skills of being a physical therapist like handling, transfers, bed mobility and gait. "We delivered two courses or conferences, each three days in length," Billek-Sawhney said. "Each of these three-day sessions were complimented by three additional days of clinical cases and co-treatment of patients. The co-treatments progressed from mostly observation on day one to facilitation of the students in examining and treating the patients. We taught and served for 12 days total." In their spare time, the students and professor had the opportunity to explore Beijing, as well as interact with the students in an informal setting. Demetriadis said she enjoyed getting to know the students and learning how to play Mahjong as well as gaining the
unforgettable experience of visiting the Great Wall of China. Belvins was able to teach alongside her fellow student peers and professor, all while being submerged in a diverse situation. “This was a once in a lifetime experience," Belvins said. "It was such an amazing and challenging experience to teach others clinical skills that I have learned and have recently been practicing in the clinical setting in the U.S. It was also a personal challenge to overcome so many barriers like language, food and culture. Everyone was so friendly and helpful in China. It was wonderful to meet new people and form a connection with them against all odds, and it really solidifies how amazing diversity is." While in China, the students and professor where able to see firsthand the lack of training and need for improvement in the field of physical therapy. During the 17 days they were abroad, Billek-Sawhney and the three students were able to educate Beijing students to make an impact on the standard of living for patients. “There are multiple universities and programs in the U.S. trying to raise the level of care in China," Billek-Sawhney said. "The two hospitals where we taught have equipment, but need to continue to grow in the examination and care of patients. In the U.S., physical therapists are doctorally prepared. In China, there are individuals who are trained in sports therapy who do not have the skill set to care for the aging population or individuals following a neurological problem like traumatic brain injury or stroke. So, that was our emphasis." Due to high pollution levels, Billek-Sawhney and students were asked to wear masks in public to combat air pollution. The population is greater than in the U.S., so overcrowding was another issue they faced. “It is a long trip, a foreign country, and so everything is different,” Billek-Sawhney said. “There is no social media, but, I believe they each grew as individuals, and as therapists. They were so effective in helping me to teach. I spent 17 days with three students who I would call colleagues and friends. I am so thankful for their assistance and, they are now each proficient in using chopsticks." Demetriadis said she would recommend taking service trips to students because her overall experience was amazing. “I loved learning about the Chinese culture, learning some of the language and being able to tour the city of Beijing,” Demetriadis said. “Every person we encountered was so friendly and appreciative that we were there that it was so easy to make new friends."
Dance Floor Training requires SRU students to give out free hugs By Megan Bush Rocket Contributor
This past Sunday members of various fraternities and sororities on campus walked around campus with Free Hugs signs and buttons as part of the Dance Floor Theory motivational training. The Dance Floor Theory is a student leadership program developed by Tom Krieglstein through the company he founded with Kevin Prentiss, Swift Kick. According to Krieglstein’s website, Krieglstein and his company work with campus leaders all over the country to help them develop an environment where all students feel “welcomed, connected, and engaged.” The idea for this event came about when Student Affairs and Higher Education graduate student and Program Coordinator of CSIL, Natalie Polana, 22, attended a conference in Gettysburg and watched Krieglstein speak. Because the Dance Floor Theory is a student motivational training program, Polana thought it would be a good idea to bring it to Greek Life. President of the National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) and communications BA major Maggie Burns, 21, organized the program for the myriad of fraternities and sororities on campus as training for the Executive Board members, especially newly elected members. The Free Hugs event helped familiarize the new members with the campus and with their positions as student leaders. Polana said she felt the Free Hugs event also assisted in motivating the participating students to get a good start on the semester, especially with Greek Life recruitment coming up.
As a graduate student in a Master’s program, Polana said that it was good for those who participated because programs and events like this build a better community within Greek Life. Polana said the Dance Floor Theory in general is great for providing more opportunities as a leader because more friends equal more fun. “The more people you know on campus, the easier it is to be more approachable,” Polana said. Freshman psychology major and Recruitment Director for Alpha Sigma Phi, Lemarr Terry, 19, said at first, he thought the Free Hugs event was odd and cheesy, but that he ended up really enjoying himself. “Certain things like this that help build your confidence [in leadership positions] is key,” Terry said. Junior marketing and finance major, Vice President of Pi Kappa Alpha, and President of SGA, Logan Steigerwalt, 20, said the event opened his eyes to how important it is to really get to know people. Steigerwalt also said it turned him into a warmer person in regards to going up to and talking to people, and that it showed him the importance of going out of your comfort zone. Student Affairs and Higher Education graduate student and Graduate Assistant for Greek Life, Stefanie Centola, 23, said that she felt the Free Hugs event helped build connections and relationships, not only within the Greek community, but throughout the student body. Centola also mentioned the negative stereotypes that circle Greek Life, and said programs like this help squash the stigma in a fun and unique way.
REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET Three SRU students hug in front of a free hug sign to encourage a welcoming environment.
Polana and Centola both felt this program was “really important to provide for students” and that “the CSIL wants students to be the best leaders they can be.” Polana, Terry, and Centola all agreed that they felt that the Dance Floor Theory training should continue “for years to come,” as Terry said. “You don’t realize how far doing something
nice for someone can go,” said Steigerwalt. Giving someone a smile or greeting them with a friendly “hello” can encourage that person to do the same for someone they see or meet. “It will grow.” Terry said he liked doing this event because some people don't realize how powerful a hug can actually be.
CAMPUS LIFE
January 29, 2016
Fey and Poehler bring laughs in "Sisters" Harmony Kasper "The Film Buff"
5 stars
Harmony Kasper is a senior journalism and creative writing major and film and media studies minor and a regular contributor to The Rocket. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler do comedy like they do best in their outrageously hilarious movie, “Sisters.” Fans of “Bridesmaids” and “Trainwreck” will equally enjoy this female-driven film. With two of the audience's favorite alums from “Saturday Night Live” starring in a film together, you can't begin to imagine the wild ride that will occur. And believe me, it's an obscene, crazy one. Even though Tina and Amy look nothing alike, they play sisters Kate and Maura Ellis. Each lives their own life, with Maura having hers a lot more together than Kate's. The drastically opposite sisters are brought together when they’re informed by their parents, played by Dianne Wiest and James Brolin, that their childhood home is being placed on the market. The sisters are confused on why their parents would do this to them, so they travel down
to Orlando to convince them not to, but when they arrive, it's already too late. Instead of dealing with the situation, the sisters decide to throw one last party, cleverly named "Ellis Island," and invite all of their high school classmates. The party begins as a bust when they realize all of their old friends have stable, put-together lives and don't care to rage like they used to. Soon enough, the Ellis sisters turn the party from a snooze-fest into a wild, out of control party. Stuff happens at this party that I would have never thought could happen, ever. Once the partygoers get going, there's no stopping them, to the point where disasters begin to occur. Towards the end, the audience can begin to see how this film will wrap up, with some heartfelt moments and continuous zingers by Fey and Poehler. Yes, there are drugs, a ton of alcohol and extremely vulgar lines, but it's all part of the comedic genius that are Fey and Poehler. Not everyone can deliver lines that are inappropriate, yet still produce a ton of laughs. Their many years on SNL have trained them to be comedy magicians both on television and in film. This film, which has a rather simple plot and faintly reminds me of “Neighbors,” delivers exactly what it intends to. There's no way someone could watch this movie and not laugh. No joke, I laughed the entire time. And even afterwards in the car on the way home. Fey and Poehler are not the only SNL alums in the film. Maya Rudolph plays their childhood nemesis that they still don't like and purposely don't invite to the party. Rudolph, who plays Brinda, tries to get into the party multiple times, but Maura and Kate always catch her. Someone who is invited to the party and is a current SNL cast member is Bobby Moynihan, who plays Alex. He gets way too into the party situation and has some outrageous scenes that are almost too over the top. John Cena, who starred in the comedy Trainwreck with Amy Schumer, plays a drug dealer and love for Kate. With so many big-name actors and the amazing dialogue, it's no wonder the movie is a success. I would go see this movie again in a heartbeat and probably buy it on DVD because it was that good. If you need a long, long laugh, please, do yourself a favor and watch “Sisters.” I think you'll enjoy it. This film receives a rating of 5/5.
Professor adopts six schools in Nigeria
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Ask Andi
Andi is a senior at SRU giving advice to those who seek it and occassionally to those who don't.
Question: Dear Andi,
I hate to admit it, but I'm quite the hoarder. I always keep stuff and I can't seem to find any room in my dorm anymore. Do you have any storage tips to help me keep my space more orderly? Sincerely, Hoarder Hannah
Answer:
Dear Hoarder Hannah,
We're all guilty of excessive saving and pointless things, but remember, that not everything is as important as you think it is. I try to ask myself if I will care at all about a certain item in ten years. If the answer is "no," then toss it. Or if the problem is clothing, a good tip is every time you get a new article of clothing, donate an old one. Storage totes are always a lifesaver. If you’re still in the dorms, raise that bed up as high as it can go. Utilize that under-the-bed space. Buy a ladder to get up there if you have to, because wasting that precious space is just not an option. Organization is key. Try to keep up with your room weekly before the mess and clutter gets out of control. Cleaning one section a day can help this cause. Utilize all space. Remember, one man’s empty corner is another man’s corner to store treasures in. Best Wishes! Andi
Question: Dear Andi,
I just jumped on the Netflix bandwagon and I'm looking for show to watch. What go-to movie do you recommend? Sincerely, Late Bloomer
Answer:
Dear Late Bloomer,
PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE MCCOLLIN Dr. Michelle McCollin cries as the children in Nigeria approach her to thank her for the shoes, bookbags and uniforms she donated to them.
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on were fi nally able to read clearly,” McCollin said. “I could have cried.” As i d e f rom d on at i n g eyeglasses, McCollin also adopted schools and donated school supplies and school uniforms to the children of Nigeria as well. She said she got a call two weeks before she left America from one of her friends who lived in the villages in Nigeria who said there were 80 kids without shoes going to school. McCollin said after hearing about this, she took to Facebook and told her friends that she needed 80 pairs of shoes and 80 bookbags, and she received both in 10 days, “I told them [friends] to empty their closets,” McCollin said. “I told one of my
girlfriends to take pictures of her kids doing this because they are now participating in social action and humanitarian work. She emptied her kid’s closet and some of those shoes were Nike’s and brand new.” McCollin said when she gave out the shoes and bookbags to the children, they came up to her and gave her silk flowers and sang and danced for her. “Tears were just streaming from my eyes,” she said. “I was so overwhelmed that these children who had no shoes were performing for me because I brought them shoes." Over the past three years, McCollin has distributed 2,000 eyeglasses, conducted eye clinics and adopted 6 schools. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it,” McCollin said. “We
have so much in excessive that we don’t even think about it. Imagine 100 U.S. dollars bought uniforms for 20 children. We blow 100 dollars on a hairstyle. So, I’m just taking the little of what we have in excess and to help someone else. “ McCollin said if students could take away three things from her volunteer work and donations, it would be to be courageous, to remember that the U.S. lives in a global village and that every little bit helps. McCollins said she’ll be returning to Nigeria in the summer to team with the American Red Cross to do emergenc y preparedness workshops to teach the citizens of Nigeria how to deal with basic first aid and CPR.
Where have you been?! Binge watching Netflix is a part of my heart and soul. I don’t know who doesn’t hold Netflix close to their hearts and maybe even tears up with it’s down for more than three minutes. But seriously, welcome to the world of binge watching, not showering for days, and essentially bathing in your own tears (of happiness or sadness, you decide). My personal choice in series would be One Tree Hill. What a ride that was. After nine seasons of emotional turmoil and pure love for Nathan Scott, I have never been happier with my decision. But, if you’re more of a non-romantic, I’ve heard good things about Grey’s Anatomy (semi-romantic), Making A Murderer (all the rage right now), and of course Orange is the New Black. You do you and find something that piques your interest. Read the reviews and take a look at the descriptions. You may realize your life is changing halfway through a season of a new show, but just roll with it. Embrace the change. Best Wishes! Andi
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January 29, 2016