VOLUME 80 - ISSUE 8

Our Stories Finally Told: H.B.C.U. Day At The Capitol

Over 63 years ago this past March, seven Southern University students staged a sit-in at a “Whites Only” counter in Baton Rouge. This action led to the arrest of these seven students but started the sit-in movement across the country. Now the site is one of many Louisiana Civil Rights trials. This is one of many pivotal moments in history that Historically Black College and Universities students in Louisiana are recognized for.

At this year’s H.B.C.U. Day at the Capitol, Louisiana legislators, the Louisiana Board of Regents, and all six of Louisiana’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities met in honor of and paid tribute to these universities.

The event unveiled the newly opened HBCU exhibit at the Capitol Park Museum. This marks the first phase of the Capitol Park Museum’s HBCU exhibit. It includes archival photos, interpretive panels, campus highlights, and specifically curated artifacts such as uniforms worn by our band members and football teams.

Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, Commissioner of Higher Education for the Louisiana

Board of Regents spoke about the importance of celebrating HBCUs.

“Today is a day that we celebrate, celebrate making sure that you talk

about who tells our story and where our story is and to have a permanent exhibit in our Louisiana State Museum that impacts the importance of

Surviving Being A Woman: Delta’s host Self-Defense Class

The spring semester may be coming to an end, but activities on campus are still taking place. The Alpha Tau Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. hosted its May Week, which consisted of engaging and informative events each day.

Delta member and graduating senior, Madison Weatherspoon, explained, “[May week] It’s kind of like a chance for them to see us nonstop all week, them to interact with us, get to know us, and get to know what we are about.” This year’s May week theme was based on the Johnson Family Vacation movie, and each event related to the film in its own way.

However, there was one day that elevated above all and could easily come back to save every participant’s life. Held at the Event Center just off the Bluff, Thursday night’s event taught imperative self-defense

lessons. Weatherspoon stated, “It was really just like to teach the women on this campus just a couple of defense mechanisms, just some selfdefense tactics, what to do if you’re ever in a situation where you need it.”

The instructor for the night was Lieutenant Leonard

Harry of the Baton Rouge City Police. Lt. Harry explained what to do if you’re ever being attacked, and described different tools and tactics that could be used to prevent the situation altogether. Lt. Harry also shared that it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings at all times, “Especially like

our historically black colleges and universities and there is no better

when they’re going into parking lots and parking garages.” He also elaborated, “The first thing to remember is you got to breathe”, he continued, “Because if you’re not breathing, you’re not fighting, and then understand

Executive Director of Admissions & Recruitment, Heather Freeman and staff from the SU Office of Admissions at the Capitol Park Museum during HBCU Day At The Capitol. (Brittany J. Patterson/ DIGEST)

Brittany J. Patterson THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Vincent Pardo THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Members of the Alpha Tau chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. pose for a photo during their Self-Defense program held inside the Event Center on April 20.(Austin Powe/DIGEST)

Director

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SUITE 1064 T.H. HARRIS HALL

POST OFFICE BOX 10180

BATON ROUGE, LA 70813

PHONE: 225.771.2231

FAX: 225.771.5840

ONLINE @ www.southerndigest.com

STUDENT MEDIA OFFICE

Jermaine Proshee

Publications Mgr. Devin Hadrick

CONTACTS (area code 225)

Staff Writers

DeBrandin Brown

Deidrick Johnson

Nodea Sewell

Kynedi Nichols

Laila Hazel

Alexis Easton

Savannah Williams

Kailen Bourne

Sandy Huggins

Thomas Walker, III

Kynnedi S. Jackson

Christopher Toler, Jr.

Aaliyah Bennett

Ashiriah Williams

Jalyn Jacobs

Vincent Pardo

Sydney Cuillier

Jaidyn Nix

Kara Porter

Sarah Griffiths

Taniyah Nichols

Isaiah Clay

Jasmine Meriedy

Staff Photographers

Terren Thomas

Ramon Johnson

Corey Quinn

Justin Moore

Christian Phillips

Stefan Davis

Terae Collins

Amaya Rosser

Taylor Haywood

Jakayvion Ashley

Clementine Rice

J’Me Bryant

SUBMISSIONS POLICY

The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed on its editorials, commentaries, ans speakouts. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be e-mailed to digest@subr.edu.

PUBLICATION ASSOCIATIONS

The Southern DIGEST is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Associated Collegiate Press (ACP), College Media Advisers Association (CMA), Full member of the Associated Press (AP) and the Louisiana Press Association (LPA).

The Office of Student Media is a department in the Division of Student Affairs.

Campus Briefs

MASS COMM CLUB MEETING

Rachel Carroccio, the Managing Director of Human Resources for Emergent Method Management Consulting Firm, as our featured speaker at the SU Mass Comm Club meeting on April 27 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 in Rm. 128 in Stewart Hall.

Rachel will talk about the “Art of Networking: Creating success through the power of relationships.” Learn how to develop your elevator speech so

you can be ready when an opportunity presents itself whether at a meeting or a job fair. Rachel is also looking to hire employees and interns so she’ll share what she’s looking for.

Join us! RSVP required. Register today!

https://forms. gle/274AgXCSD1fYfRQ89

Refreshments will be served!

that you’re fighting for your life.”

In addition to being equipped with the proper mindset, women can further protect themselves by investing in mace and other deterrents. Lt. Harry said, “Mace is good. It doesn’t matter which product it is, there are several different products on the market, they all work.” Lastly, Lt. Harry stated that running workouts can also help ensure, that in the event of an attack, you

don’t become fatigued quickly.

All these tips and lessons are coming at a time when they’re needed the most.

According to recent studies done by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, twenty percent of female college students have experienced some form of sexual assault. Although that rate is slightly lower on HBCU campuses, it is still a staggering fact.

SELF-DEFENSE from page 1

This is why the Baton Rouge City Police Department is taking matters into its own hand and is now offering self-defense classes to any individual who wishes to participate. Referred to as the “Equalizer” course, the class is hosted by the Baton Rouge City Police Training Academy every quarter. It is located at 9000 Airline Highway, and more details can be found on the Baton Rouge City Police website.

way to celebrate HBCU day than marking it with this important contribution.”

Acknowledging the roles HBCU students had in the Civil Rights movement, she continued. “We know that our historically black colleges and universities have a long and rich history of opening doors and being part of the Civil Rights Movement moving our work forward. But we have to ensure historically black colleges and universities have a rich future as well.”As she spoke about diversity in our state, she received applause. “Finally, let me say that in our great state of Louisiana, diversity is one of our greatest assets. We stand united, moving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion forward in our state.”

83rd District state representatve and two-time Southern University alum Kyle Green, Jr., from 2009, and Southern University Law Center alum from 2012, spoke about the meaning of the event. “It’s a source of pride to see the accomplishments of the university that are near and dear to my heart, put on display for everyone to see. This is because I wouldn’t be the person I am without Southern University’s professors and staff,” Green stated.

Tamia Williams, the 55th Miss SUSLA, a technology major from Shreveport gave her views on the event. “Today we’re at the Capitol for HBCU day recognizing all the different HBCUs in Louisiana. Today’s event was wonderful.” Williams stated, “We have learned so much about each university and are looking forward to making new history with new students.”

University Counseling Center

Phone: (225) 771-2480

Email: Counselingcenter@subr edu Instagram: @Subr counselingcenter

NOT SURE WHEN YOUR FINALS ARE ? SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW THE SPRING 2023 FINAL EXAM SCHEDULES

Latari Fleming, dean of students at Southern University at Shreveport, commented on the event’s impact. “Today’s event was a historical event, not only for Southern University but for HBCUs in Louisiana. I’m so glad to be a part of a historical event that goes down in history,” Fleming

The Southern Blues: Baseball falls to Grambling State NBA Playoff Predictions

thomas Walker, iii THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Historically speaking, the Southern University Baseball team is the best Division 1 sports team we have at the university. With 96 Major League Draft Pick Selections, 31 regular season SWAC conference championships, and 2 Major League Baseball Hall of Famers, Southern has a long history when it comes to baseball. However, this season the team hasn’t lived up to its star-studded history, and that was apparent in the matchup on the diamond between the Southern University Jaguars and the Grambling State Tigers. The first inning started promising for the Jags with three runs that came from the runners batted in (RBI). The crowd showed immense excitement as they were prepared to see a show. This momentum of scoring every inning continued for the Jags until the 3rd inning when Grambling starting pitcher Senior Kerry Long started throwing hooks back to back that the Jags just couldn’t combat. This led to Long striking out all three batters in a row. The energy and

confidence the Tigers were able to muster up in the 3rd inning transitioned over to the 4th, completely changing the pace of the game. The inning started with a score for the Tigers off a pop-up. Then, 2 more walks allowed by the Jags set the Tigers on the 3rd and 2nd base. Another walk was given, resulting in all the bases being covered. This was followed up by yet another walk, which gave the Tigers another point. Finally, the

pitchers were switched, and #50 Junior Jaden Brasseneaux was brought to the mound. However, on his first pitch, he allowed a walk which had the Tigers covering all three bases again. This inning was brought home when #10 Junior Julian Murphy hit a home run giving the Tigers a grand slam. After this tremendous feat, the Jaguars just couldn’t keep up. The Tigers scored every single inning afterward to lead them to a 13-6 victory

One Putt Too Many Could Sink Departments Not Holes

It has been thirty-five years since the last SWAC Golf championship was won by the Jags and nineteen years since the Lady Jags took home a SWAC Golf Championship. After some rumors surfacing around campus, the wait is now over; Golf is coming back to Southern University. Our Athletic Department announced that Golf and Men’s Tennis is officially back on the Bluff. I am all for adding new things however, I think that we need to build up our current sports programs before we can resurrect the past.

Southern hasn’t had the greatest track record of being thorough in executing athletic programs. Well, at least not since the ’90s or early 2000s. Historically speaking, Southern has had a reputation for bringing in Championships. One

would think that with all the championships, we would have more to show for it. The Athletic Department is stretching itself thin with this decision. It is always great to see expansion but at what cost? The other sports already beg for money from boosters consistently, and scholarships are sparse for

the 400-plus student-athletes as is. Bringing back Golf and Men’s Tennis might also be biting off more than they can chew.

Let’s be positive about it, right? I just want the Bluff to get back to giving us something to be hopeful about regarding athletics. Bringing Golf back will be

over the Jags. All in all, this game was lost due to the pitching sequence. Throughout the nine innings, the pitchers were rotated out four different times. This was due to the 11 walks that were allowed, with Senior pitcher Jalen Long Brassenaux having a total of 6 walks with 6 hits. When asked about the pitching after the game, Junior

In all professional sports, there is a playoff. One of the most rigorous playoffs in professional sports is the NBA playoffs. For all the basketball fanatics, the playoffs are a time if your favorite has made it to the dance; there is more yelling at the TV than usual. As a fan of the game, I can appreciate the effort, grit, film study, and amazing performances that these players give en route to the NBA Finals.

a good recruitment tool, however, we might be selling pipe dreams if we can’t deliver on a solid program. StudentAthletes will arrive here and then be left with a lackluster experience. Ultimately, we want our athletes to graduate from Southern, not spend

This year’s playoffs in the Eastern Conference consist of the Milwaukee Bucks, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and the Miami Heat. In the Western Conference, the teams competing are the Denver Nuggets, Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Minnesota Timberwolves. All teams are listed in order of their respective seeding, which is 1-8 for each conference. Teams earn their spot through the 82-game regular season, then face off against each other this time in the best-of-seven-series. The first seed plays the eighth seed, while the second plays the seventh, the third seed plays the sixth seed, and the fourth plays the fifth seed. So far, the first round has been interesting as many factors have played into the outcome of some games and series. The Warriors have shown the world to not be an effective team playing on the road, but back at home, they are just as good as anyone in the league, but it just feels like the Kings are better overall. The Lakers vs. Kings series would be a tough battle for either team, but the Lakers seem to have the edge considering the Grizzlies’ injuries and Ja Morant not being 100 percent healthy. Milwaukee is looking at a different series or journey to the Finals, considering Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury. The 76ers are strong, especially with Joel Embiid leading the team. and hopefully, James Harden steps up despite having terrible postseason runs. The Cavs finally had a great season without Lebron, but the Knicks are no joke, and the series can go either

ashley loVelace THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

DIGEST Graphic

Junior Quincy Smith readies for the pitch against Grambling (Knykolas Ross/DIGEST)

sydney cuillier THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

Top Recruit Williams makes Bad Decision

Today’s generation of athletes is held to a higher standard, especially if they have a high media presence.

Mikey Williams is one of the nation’s top basketball recruits coming out of high school who committed to Memphis University. Recently, he was arrested on five counts of assault with a deadly weapon using a firearm, this could tank all his hard work throughout his short career. He was a rising basketball star with a high media presence across multiple platforms and also was going to be a future top NBA draft pick, but now his future is uncertain because he made the wrong choices. He made a bad decision and he should face the consequences of his actions and hopefully receive a second chance to redeem himself to his family, basketball fans, and the Memphis Tigers.

Unfortunately, anytime this new generation of athletes receives opportunities of a lifetime to create better lives for themselves and their families, they make wrong decisions that make their hard work, and careers go down the drain. The media plays an

essential role in influencing our rising athletes because of the media presence across different platforms. I find that athletes that come from a middle-class or higherclass background with a two-parent home are more likely to get sucked into a life they’ve never been around or part of putting themselves in danger versus an athlete that comes from a perverted neighborhood with fewer resources to succeed will push for a better future for themselves and their families.

As a former athlete, my goal was to always create a

better life for my family and me. Even though I came from a one-parent home in a lowclass neighborhood, I’ve always had family around to keep me focused on my path to success and not get sucked into a life that wasn’t meant for me.

Watching my environment, and growing up in the neighborhood I did, motivated me even more to succeed and to make sure I never have to fall to any other options while reaching my future.

Growing up, we all made bad decisions, but what is

DIGEST Graphic

important is that we learn from them. Mikey made a terrible choice, and he must be prepared to suffer the consequences, and it is disheartening because he became another number in the system when it didn’t have to be that way. However, I would love to see him get a second chance because he is talented, and one mistake shouldn’t define a person. A message to all athletes and people is that opportunities don’t come easy and be prepared to separate yourself from people who slow you down.

BASEBALL from page 4

GOLF from page 4

one athletic season and then enter the transfer portal as we’ve seen in past seasons. By bringing Golf back to the Bluff, we must consider all avenues. Even if we have a successful Golf program, we still have other programs to clean up.

Baseball, Softball, Football, and Basketball need upgrades to their facilities. The funds we use to expand into bringing back sports should be re-filtered into making sure we have state-of-theart facilities and we can preserve the longevity of our athletes. Adding more to a department that is struggling to stay afloat in some cases is causing more harm than not. Let’s make sure that our athletic foundation is firm before weighing it down with aesthetics just because we think it makes us look good.

NBA from page 4

pitcher Antione Harris said, “We need to come focused. We need to worry about putting the ball in play and not so much about striking someone out. When we focus on that we’ll be good.” While today might not have been the ending they wanted, the Jags play their next game Tuesday, April 25th, against the University of Louisiana Lafayette; where they can hopefully show the Ragin Cajuns just why this team has the history it does. way. The Suns have a lot of offensive firepower, but the Clippers are physical, however, the variety on the offensive side of the ball and the absence of Paul George give the Suns the edge. The Nuggets should take care of the Timberwolves easily, but it is a nice superstar matchup seeing Anthony Edwards vs. Nikola Jokic. I see the 76ers, Celtics, Bucks, Cavs, Nuggets, Lakers, Kings, and Suns getting out of the first round. Overall, it is either the Bucks or the Celtics going home with the Larry O’Brien trophy when it is all set and done.

GOOD LUCK ON FINAL EXAMS !

CAREER SERVICES

The Library of Congress 2023 Archives, History, and Heritage Advanced (AHHA) Internship Program is accepting applications through Monday, April 24, 2023. AHHA 2023 is a paid internship offering remote and onsite projects for many different majors and interests.

Seeking currently enrolled undergraduate Juniors and Seniors, Masters , and Ph.D. candidates from ALL MAJORS. Click the link below for position requirements, job descriptions, and more information!

https://www.loc.gov/item/internships/archives -history-and-heritageadvanced-internship-program-2023/

Applications close at 11:59 ET on April 24.

It’s Not About The Start, but The Finish: SU Alum Dr. Morkeith Phillips

“One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned from Southern University was never give up.” With that lesson, Dr. Morkeith Phillips reaches for his dreams and pushes himself.

Coming from the Third Ward of

Uptown New Orleans, LA, Dr. Phillips started his freshman year at Southern University in 2000. In the beginning, he wanted to join the Human Jukebox. Phillips explained his first semester of multitasking joining the band and doing schoolwork. “It was really interesting. I had to prepare myself to be in the band. It consisted of dedicated practice

and support of being a first-semester freshman,” Phillips said. He then described how he only had two white shirts, blue shorts, fifty dollars, his ID, and a social security card. For marching band shoes, he used his best friend’s shoes three sizes larger than

Stepping Out of Her Comfort Zone: Aja Childs Warriors of the Mind

Southern University is known for its beloved Louisiana traditions, with Southern being an HBCU and top school in Louisiana, there’s no doubt that you’ll see some new faces walking around. Every year, Southern University welcomes students from all over the country with open arms as they share their traditions with new incoming Jags. The Student Spotlight would like to highlight one of our outof-state jags and let them share their experiences at Southern University and A&M College. Our featured Jag, Aja Childs is a sophomore majoring in nursing from Birmingham, Alabama.

The question was asked, “Being an out-of-state student is an experience in itself, so what has the experience been like?”

Childs replied, “The experience for me at Southern has been up and down, especially my first semester, coming far from home all alone was new but I was ready for my new start, started meeting new people and figuring out my ways in life without my parents.”

for me that I’m growing to love.”

SO UTHE RN UN IVERSIT Y

With new traditions and experiences come new people. Coming to an HBCU from out of state means that new friends were made. They could be local or further than you. Another question that was asked was “Have you found your new circle of friends?”

laila hazel THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

AND AGRICULTURAL & MEC HANICAL COLLEGE

Being able to leave your hometown and explore is such an exciting and freeing opportunity, especially as a young adult. One thing that Southern is known for is their traditions and culture. People from all over enjoy coming to Southern and learning about the traditions on the Bluff. Childs stated, “The foods, the culture, music, Mardi Gras all that is a new tradition

“I’ve found my circle at Southern, we’ve all grown an unbreakable bond that feels like family. I feel like I’ve known them my whole life.” Finding that perfect friend group will make your experience feel like a home away from home. It’s important to surround yourself with people that’ll make you feel like you’re at home.

“Coming from Alabama, I didn’t know much about Louisiana, but it’s so different from my hometown.” When moving to different states, you have to

Giving back to your community is the most effective thing we can do to maintain and build our institutions. Specifically, our psychology program prepares students to actively give back to our community. Serving as mental guides to steer our society in the healthiest mind frame possible. Our psychology program provides our students with courses to explore different aspects of behavior. Once the psychology program is completed, students will receive a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

As students, we will soon be responsible as alumni for maintaining the programs and creating more to benefit our youth. JaNaia Brewer is a

senior psychology major from Dallas Texas. She explained that her love for psychology stemmed from home. “My little one suffers from a condition called ODD (oppositional deficiency disorder).” Brewer had to watch her sister transition from one personality to an unrecognizable being.

It took her mother finally coming to terms with the illness and getting help for JaNia to realize psychology is her calling. When asked why the Black community ignores our mental health, she responded, “I feel like we go through denial.”

She believes it becomes a matter of parents not wanting to hear that

kailen Bourne THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

courtesy/SU Media Relations

courtesy/Morkeith Phillips

DIGEST GRAPHIC

For the Love of the Free Speech; a Mass Comm Student Feature

For every major that exists on the Southern University campus, there are internal motivating factors that exist for students towards the end of pushing themselves towards success and the achievement of greatness at a high level. In Southern University’s own department of mass communication, for example, student motivations range from a desire to be paragons of free speech in some cases, to wanting to represent the underrepresented communities so that they can be given proper regional attention in other cases. In the case of Kyndall Jones, a graduating senior at the university’s mass communications department, her main motivations stemmed from an understanding of what she was good at.

When thinking about the field of journalism, broadcast and otherwise, there are certain skill sets that are required in order for success to be established and maintained. These skills include being a technically sound writer, good interviewer, and a willing participant in the field from a camera and video standpoint, wherever that may be.

When asked what inspired her own desire to commit to such a career path, Jones says that she simply found something that she was passionate about and good at, and went from there. “My biggest [deciding] factor in wanting to pursue journalism as a major was really just trusting my gut and investing in myself towards stuff that I’m already good at,” said Jones. Alongside the aforementioned skills that journalists in the professional field must be proficient in, Jones also noted how she’d had an opportunity to gain experience as a photographer as well during her collegiate experience.

Taking all of the aforementioned necessities into consideration that are needed to be a strong professional in the field of journalism, Kyndall also gives credit to professionals already in the field who’ve inspired her from an early age as well. One major inspiration Jones noted to be a prominent inspiration is Lester Holt, the NBC Nightly News anchor.

Among being a notable anchor and mainstream media personality, Holt has notable experience in the field dating back to his daytime coverage of the 2000 Presidential Election Recount, as well as the overarching lead-up to the Iraq War. Alongside these platitudes, Jones notes how his interviewing and speaking skills put on display during his run with CBS News’ 48 Hours most interested her in doing similar work as a professional.

When asked where she sees herself in this field ten years later, she envisions a path in broadcast similar to that of Holt’s, including covering breaking news events on air and becoming a notable name in her own right in the world of journalism. “I would like to become a news anchor for CNN one day,” said Kyndall when asked about what a potential end goal would look like for her down the line.

Principles such as objective truth, ethics, and free speech are the bedrock of journalism, but in a world where these principles are being threatened at every turn by political bias, the need for unbiased, welltrained new-age journalism is more important than ever before. Once she steps across the stage this May as a professional in the field herself, Jones argues that she’s as well suited for the challenge as anyone.

deBrandin BroWn THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

JONES

“My biggest [deciding] factor in wanting to pursue journalism as a major was really just trusting my gut and investing in myself towards stuff that I’m already good at”

- Kyndall Jones

WARRIORS from page 8

their child is suffering from mental illness. Brewer feels it is essential for students to remember the institutions that provided the education needed for their desired field.

In terms of improving the Psychology Department, JaNix suggests adding more professor diversity in areas like statistics, psych testing, and to benefit students that learn best with different teaching styles available. Brewer is also a member of Psi Chi, an International Honors Society in Psychology. She wants more advisors to be involved in providing more help and resources to advocate. Brewer hopes after graduation to donate to the psychology department for all she has learned.

Southern’s Psychology program is filled with current students and professors who work tirelessly to get a better understanding of how to help our community mentally. The mission statement of Southern’s psychology program is to “prepare students to compete globally and address human need.”

An alumnus from 1970 felt that our program was so significant, that she dedicated a large sum of money to the program. Winnona Jackson was a psychology major and graduated in 1970 from Southern University. As a Baton Rouge native, she understood the need to give back to her community and donated $10,000 to the Department of Psychology. Her donation was meant to support students aspiring to fill leadership positions in government and private industry.

After graduating high school, it was time to move into college. Unfortunately, Jackson’s parents could not afford her college tuition. Without her parents’ knowledge, Jackson arrived at a local bank at 17 in order to talk with a loan officer about college funding. The officer was so impressed that he decided to fund her education per semester as long as she maintained an excellent GPA. She paid her loans in full by graduation.

Unfortunately, Ms. Jackson passed away on Oct. 16, 2021. Giving back to our community whether it be financially, creating more resources for our students, or keeping our school. The importance of taking studies seriously cannot be overstated.

GOOD LUCK ON FINALS JAGUARS!

remind yourself that it’s going to be different and you may have to make some changes in order to adapt.

“I didn’t realize that we had Mardi Gras break until I came to Southern, and I find that so cool,” Childs declared.

Not only do you have the holidays to look out for, but you also have the foods and music to enjoy. “The seafood down here is the best seafood I’ve had so far, and the music here is

so different from what I was listening to at home,” stated Childs.

Many students from out of state can agree when they say that taking that big leap into independence was the best decision they’ve made. You learn so many life lessons, discipline, and make the best experiences. “I’m glad to take the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and go to school away from home. I don’t regret any part of it.”

PHILLIPS from page 8

his original size. Dr. Phillips stated, “I had to do what I had to do to make the Human Jukebox. Once I joined the band, my next focus was how to survive?”

Although Dr. Philips did the finest he could do and succeeded for one semester in the Human Jukebox, he decided to put his education on hold.

In 2004, Dr. Phillips attended Southern University in New Orleans. In 2005 when Hurricane Katrina struck, he decided to return to Baton Rouge and continue his education at the main campus in the fall semester. Later in 2006, he returned to Southern University in New Orleans to complete his bachelor’s degree.

He enrolled in his master’s degree in Marketing in 2011 at Southern University in Baton Rouge. Dr. Phillips graduated in 2014. Additionally, in 2017, he returned back to school at Southern University in New Orleans to earn his Ph.D., which he graduated with in 2022.

His campus involvements were the highlight of his college years. Dr. Phillips was a Juke for one semester but also joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. He was also a student government leader and a member of the Business Club. His special memories include only eating in Dunn Dining Hall. He also had fun and getting financial support from his roommate from Houston, Texas, and enjoying homecoming week.

As of today, Phillips is the director of the Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement at Southern University in New Orleans. He has been in this position for 5 years now. He recruits young men from the greater New Orleans area and provides them with scholarships to attend Southern University. When male students graduate, they can teach for 2 years. The goal of his job is to increase the number of AfricanAmerican male students in the classroom and their graduation rate.

To benefit SUBR students, Phillips says, “Make your connections, learn as much as you can on campus, get involved, and enjoy your growth.”

CHILDS from page 8

FINAL EXAM SCHEDULES

(by:Kynedi Nichols)

How was your school year?

AURIYONNIE LOPEZ FRESHMAN MIAMI,FLORIDA COMPUTER SCIENCE

“THE SPRING SEMESTER AN 8/10 AND OVERALL MY FIRST YEAR BEING A JAGUAR A 10/10. #GEAUXJAGS.”

Black Privilege; A Mutation of American Exceptionalism

From a contextual perspective, the black community has been perpetually oppressed by one means or another since the onset of slavery centuries ago, and the case could be made that white privilege is the result of national social norms of the 1970s disavowing racism conflicting with cultural historic norms promoting racism in white society. Black privilege follows a similar but distinctly different dynamic based on a desire of black people to be viewed as socially and economically equal to white Americans, ignoring the contradictions that exist in the American dream and ideals of equality and inclusion that they are subject to as well.

back to the 90s stems from forums such as television and social media, which have effectively created outlets for second-hand perspectives on the reality of the world around us. Every facet of American life has been commodified into media and programming, with environments such as sports and entertainment becoming a driving force for shaping perception among the poor and middle class; the perception that we as individuals have all the power and influence that we could possibly need to institute change in meaningful ways.

hundred years does wonders for upwards growth and productivity rates.

CHRISTOPHER HOWARD FRESHMAN NATCHITOCHES, LA BIOLOGY

“THE SPRING SEMESTER A 7/10. THE OVERALL SCHOOL YEAR AN 8/10. I ENJOY THE ENVIRONMENT AND IT’S A PRETTY GOOD SCHOOL.”

When the erosion of the black community is discussed, the primary focus goes to the black household, when in reality, it’s the greater community in which that household is rooted that influences the individuals inside most. During the Reaganera crack epidemic when crime reached an all-time high across America, namely in predominantly Black areas, a focus on themes such as individualism towards the end of safety became a norm that has been maintained within our community to this day as the biggest driving force behind black privilege.

Individualism in the modern era dating

Getting past the how and into the what, black privilege in present America is plainly the conscious ignorance of the context of our people’s historic struggle in favor of stock in the nationalist, capitalist machine that is the American free market. When we talk about black exceptionalism, it is unmistakably influenced by American exceptionalism in the sense that we truly believe through hard work alone, even the historically disenfranchised have a fair shot as anyone to strike gold and achieve the American dream.

Let it be understood that it’s black people who have historically been the foundation of the world’s greatest industry and most bustling economy, because who would think; not having to pay a labor force that accounted for nearly the entire nation’s agriculture and hard labor for over three

If any group has worked hard enough to justifiably want a fair share and say in how this nation that we’ve been forcibly made to invest into goes, it should be the black community. This needn’t necessarily be in the form of individual checks or cash reparations per se, but rather substantial investments in the infrastructure and quality of living within our communities via education, wages, healthcare, and housing. This blind belief that we as individuals all have the capacity to move mountains and change the world based on the number of hours we work or self-help books we read is a beautiful story and metaphor told to us as children. Practically, however, power is wielded by the wealthy and political elite almost exclusively, and only unified action from a community-driven collective can institute substantial change.

In short, black privilege in practice is settling to assimilate into the majority and earn enough to where the systemic ills of oppression no longer concern us on personal grounds, and that is the goal of nearly all Americans because of the myth of American exceptionalism, we may yet remain divided and perpetually oppressed for decades yet to come.

Formerly Known as Blac Chyna

ARMANIE REED SOPHOMORE MIAMI,FLORIDA SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY

“I RATE THE SPRING SEMESTER A 8/10 AND THE WHOLE SCHOOL YEAR A 9.5/10.”

From big booty bikini pictures to evangelic easter editorials Angela White, more widely known as Blac Chyna has begun a massive transition into a new persona. She’s promoting this new image and is bringing us along on the ride through her social media platforms. White has made drastic changes such as removing fillers, reducing her butt and breast size, and removing a ‘demonology’ Baphomet tattoo. She even graced our timelines with a symbolic photoshoot in front of a cross with captions straight from the bible on Easter Sunday. The response to this drastic

rebrand has been overwhelmingly positive. Blac Chyna seems to be the villain we want to root for, from seeing her as a sexy video vixen to infiltrating the Kardashian clan.

In our current society, we often see celebrities transition into new phases as things may no longer serve them. Everybody hated her a few years ago for being the face of a skin-bleaching company. She was later exposed for not playing the traditional mother role almost exactly a year ago when her children’s fathers confirmed they keep the kids the majority of the week and pay for their schooling. She was also largely known as the highest earner on only fans, in a time when the stigma against sex workers

continues to run rampant.

In my opinion, we should be more careful to question the authenticity of drastic changes in our public figures. Being a mass comm major in public relations has made me skeptical when learning even Instagram baddies are more strategic than we sometimes give them credit for. After going under fire for having a baby with a much younger man Britney Renner has made a similar transition to a more conservative persona. It seems that when one image stops working for them, they have to make a change so that they don’t lose their current audience and have the opportunity to gain a new one.

SPEAKOUT/ OPINION POLICY

NICO HARDIN JUNIOR HOUSTON, TEXAS COMPUTER SCIENCE

“I ENJOYED THE SPRING SEMESTER. I CROSSED INTO THE BETA SIGMA CHAPTER OF OMEGA PSI PHI, FRATERNITY, INC. OVERALL, BOTH SEMESTERS WERE GREAT. I JUST ENJOYED BEING OUT AND DOING SERVICE FOR THE COMMUNITY. ”

The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. The newspaper staff nor professional staff of Southern Univerisity is responsible for individual opinions expressed in editorials, commentaries, and speakouts. These opinions/speakouts are the sole opinion of the writer/students who express their views.

sarah Griffins THE SOUTHERN DIGEST

TOP JAGS