The April 30th edition of The Southern Digest

STATE & NATION

SPORTS

VIEWPOINTS

Disaster could eclipse Exxon Valdez. pg. 7

Also: SU softball falls at SWAC. pg. 9

Whitney gives thanks to supporters. pg. 15

gulf spill grows larger

key series for Su baseball

miss Su says good-bye

estABLished in 1928

WWW.SOUTHERNDIGEST.COM

FRIDAY, APRIL 30, 2010

PERC ideas many

VOL. 53, ISSUE 19

SUPD: fullservice police

DIGEST COVER STORY

By Billy waShingTon digest A&e editor

By mary daviS digest MAnAging editor

Everyone has been aware or at least heard of the Postsecondary Review Committee (PERC) has some understanding of the committee’s 22 recommendations and how it will affect Southern University and other non-flagship institutions across the state.

PERC’s recommendations are an issue where some people are for it and some people are against it. It’s one of those proposals where one may decide if it’s beneficial or absolutely absurd.

The purpose of PERC, also known as the Tucker Commission, is to enhance the postsecondary system in Louisiana by implementing 22 recommendations within the five following focus areas: •Improve graduation rates •Align institutional missions and program offerings with economic priorities and workforce needs •Re-evaluate postsecondary education funding to place less emphasis on enrollment and increased emphasis on institutional quality and performance •Enhance tuition and See perc page 3

2009-10 T YEAR IN REVIEW

digest neWs serViCe

he academic year of 2009-2010 has been one filled with struggles and triumphs following one after another to make a variety of captivating news stories.

Southern University has overcome every obstacle that it has been faced with from SACS to devastating budget cuts and the ever-looming Post Secondary Review Commission, more commonly known as the Tucker Commission. However, SU has also witnessed its fair share of positive events with the Women’s Basketball team becoming SWAC champions, the

10. The ouSTing oF SouThern univerSiTy police chieF morriS. Southern University Police Chief Michael Morris said he was

Southern University Police are authorized by the state of Louisiana as full law enforcement agents, which allows them to make full arrests.

The officers at SU are trained by the state and carry the same authority as any law enforcement agent in the state.

Unlike city and county police, however, the SU police are authorized to patrol statewide.

According to former SUPD chief Michael Morris, SUPD officers are legally qualified to carry guns and make arrests.

“We are full service police,” said Morris. “We have available resources at our disposal.”

Some of these resources include the management of emergency calls at a call center located on Harding Boulevard and access to the database that allows officers to check someone’s criminal record.

According to Morris every emergency called placed at

See top 10 page 4

See supd page 3

Saints’ astonishing Super Bowl win down to the historic reform to healthcare in this country.

From the tragic loss of three entertainment icons and the countless lives lost in the horrific earthquake in Haiti and all the ups and downs, SU has had a front row view of the happenings around the world and we here at the DIGEST have compiled a list of the top ten news stories of the year.

SU alumnus Henderson to speak at commencement digest neWs serViCe

A high-ranking IBM executive has been selected to speak for the Spring 2010 Commencement excercises.

Dexter Henderson, Vice President, Systems Software, has responsibility for IBM’s worldwide system software offerings for its System and Technology Group (STG).

Dexter joined IBM as a computer programmer in RTP, NC Development Laboratory in 1984 after receiving his Bachelor of Science degree from Southern University in Computer Science.

He has held a number of worldwide executive leadership roles across multiple

ISOLATED STORMS HIGH

85° | 73° LOW

divisions within IBM, including; IBM Software Development; Sales; Mergers and Acquisitions; Support; and Services and Customer Programs. He has served as Vice President, Development, Platform Management, STG; responsible for developingstrategicmanagementsolutions for IBM hardware systems; Executive of worldwide high-end software sales; Executive for integrating IBM software acquisitions into IBM’s global strategic directive; Executive for system-Z Software Strategy and Product Quality; responsible for growing IBM’s system-Z revenue by building strategic solutions through

INSIDE S O U T H E R N

simplification and consolidation of new and existing IBM products and improving IBM product quality and development efficiency; Executive for IBM Software Support and Services responsible for Europe, Middle East & Africa and served as a member of the IBM Senior Leadership Team for Europe, Middle East & Africa; Director of IBM Solution Development Group with worldwide responsibility for out-of-box integrated solutions for customers’ e-business infrastructure.

In support of his alma mater, through an alliance with IBM called Education for a Smarter Planet, Mr. Henderson

GRADUATES

Find out who’s walking across the stage at the Spring 2010 commencement ceremony.

SEE PG 10

Friday, May 14 10:30 a.m.

F.G. Clark Activity Center

is leading the efforts to ensure that the Southern University Office of Technology and Network Services become a “Smarter” University though this program.

CAMPUS BRIEFS................2 STATE & NATION................7 SPRING GRADUATES.......10 NEWS.................................3  SPORTS....................9 VIEWPOINTS................14 U N I V E R S I T Y ,

B A T O N

R O U G E ,

L A .

CAMPUS BRIEFS Page 2 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

THE SOUTHERN DIGEST 4 - DAY WEATHER OUTLOOK SATURDAY, MAY 1

ScaTTered T-STormS

SUNDAY, MAY 2

heavy T-STormS

HI - 86° / LO - 75° 60% CHANCE OF RAIN

HI - 79°/ LO - 70° 90% CHANCE OF RAIN

Classifieds

are open to students, faculty, and staff. For more information, please contact Melvin Robinson at 225.771.3212.

aparTmenTS For renT

Tired of student housing? Free rent specials.

1.866.972.5495.

Campus Briefs TODAY Financial aid alerT

The Financial Aid Office is requesting that students apply for financial aid early. Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible for the 2010-11 award year. Students must file a FAFSA annually for eligibility consideration.

SUBR’s school code is 002025. Please visit www. fafsa.ed.gov to complete a FAFSA online. Students and parents should apply for PINs at www.pin. ed.gov. Your PIN will serve as your electronic signature to process the FAFSA. The preferred deadline for Summer 2010 and Fall 2010 has passed. The final loan deadline for Summer 2010 is June 11.

For more information, contact the financial aid office at 225.771.2790. exerciSe & FiTneSS cenTer

The new Exercise and Fitness Center of the Intramural Sports and Recreation Department is open for use in the F. G. Clark Activity Center.

The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. Aerobic classes are offered on Monday and Wednesday evenings in Moore Hall Auditorium.

The facility and classes

Fall 2010 regiSTraTion

Fall courses are online for early registration.

Please schedule all courses before leaving for the summer. A $30 additional charge will be added if you do not register before the end of the semester.

For those students who wait for on-site registration in August, the late fee is $100, no exceptions.

Avoid all late fees and register now. peer TuToring

Peer tutoring is available in the Center for Student Success in Stewart Hall Room 107. Available hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Mondays-Thursdays and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays.

Follow the Center for Student Success on Twitter to see exciting upcoming events: www.twitter.com/ jaguar_nation.

BapTiST STudenT union

Want to become a member of the Baptist Student Union? Want to fellowship with other students during the week?

Need a place to worship?

Need a place to attend for bible study, special events and trips? Need a quiet place to study? Need a place to relax and watch television?

Join the T.J. Jemison Baptist Student Union, located at 724 Harding Blvd., across from LaCumba’s Den and the tennis courts. For more information, call

MONDAY, MAY 3

TUESDAY, MAY 4

ScaTTered T-STormS

moSTly cloudy

HI - 85° / LO - 65° 40% CHANCE OF RAIN

HI - 86° / LO - 63° 20% CHANCE OF RAIN

225.774.8924.

benefit the Dallas Chapter’s Scholarship Fund.

Contact sufadallas@yahoo. loS JaguareS laTinoS com for more information.

Los Jaguares Latinos, Southern University’s Spanish Club, meets What’s the Wednesdays at 3 p.m. in quickest way to Room 320 of T.T. Allain Hall. If you are unable to get news and attend the meetings but events to still like to participate, the student body? please send your name, contact number and valid e-mail address to Put it in the...

SouthernUSpanishClub@ gmail.com Senior viSual arTS exhiBiTion

Southern University’s Department of Visual Arts is currently hosting a Senior Visual Arts Student Exhibition in Frank Hayden Hall until April 28. The exhibition gallery hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The exhibition is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Robert Cox at 225.771.2070.

MAY 22 Bayou BaSh 2010

The Southern University Alumni’s Dallas Chapter is holding it annual Bayou Bash May 22.

The event will be held on the front lawn of the African American Museum, located at 3536 Grand Avenue in Dallas from 6 p.m.-11 p.m.

The menu includes crawfish, corn, potatoes, meat pies and much more.

Admission is $15 for Southern students with valid ID, $20 for adults before the event and $30 at the door. All proceeds

GET 36 ISSUES FOR JUST $40 Name:

Campus BRIEFS

Fax your campus event to The Southern DIGEST at 771-3253 Deadline for announcements are three days prior to the publication date.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

sUite 1064 – t.H.HArris HALL p.o. BoX 10180 – BAton roUge, LA 70813 225.771.2231 pHone / 225.771.3253 FAX WWW.soUtHerndigest.CoM issn: 1540-7276. Copyright 2008 by the southern University office of student Media services. the southern digest is written, edited and published by members of the student body at southern University and A&M College.

All articles, photographs and graphics are property of the southern digest and its contents may not be reproduced or republished without the written permission from the editor in Chief and director of student Media services. the southern digest is published bi-weekly (tuesday & Friday) with a run count of 6,000 copies per issue during the southern University - Baton rouge campus fall, spring semesters. the paper is free to students, staff, faculty and general public every tuesday & Friday morning on the sUBr campus. the southern digest student offices are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. the offices are located on the first floor of t.H. Harris Hall, suite 1064. the southern digest is the official student newspaper of southern University and A&M College located in Baton rouge, Louisiana. Articles, features, opinions, speak out and editorials do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the administration and its policies. signed articles, feedback, commentaries and features do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors, staff or student body.

PUBLICATION ASSOCIATIONS the southern digest is a member of the Black College Communications Association (BCCA), national Association of Black Journalists (nABJ), University - Wire network (U-Wire), Associated Collegiate press (ACp), College Media Advisers Association (CMA), society of professional Journalist (spJ), Full member of the Associated press (Ap) and the Louisiana press Association (LpA).

City/State/Zip: )

For more information call 225.771.2230 or mail your subscription payment of $40 to: The Southern Digest Subscriptions, PO Box 10180, Baton Rouge, LA 70813.

Business, cashiers checks and money orders accepted only. No personal checks or credit card orders accepted. Make all payments to The Southern Digest.

ADVERTISER MEMBERSHIPS the southern digest subscribes to the American passage, Alloy M+M, 360 youth, Zim2papers, All Campus Media, ruxton group and College publishers on-Line services.

STUDENT MEDIA OFFICE www.subr.edu/studentmedia director - tBA Assistant director - tBA publications Asst. - Fredrick Batiste Advertising Mgr. - Camelia gardner CONTACTS (Area Code 225) Advertising office - 771.2230 digest newsroom - 771.2231 student Media services- 771.3004 the Jaguar yearbook - 771.2464 yeArBooK newsroom - 771.4614 ego Magazine newsroom - 771.4614 southern University and A&M College at Baton rouge is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the southern Association of Colleges and schools, 1866 southern Lane, decatur, georgia 30033-4097, telephone (404) 679-4500, Website: www.sacscoc.org.

MISSION STATEMENT the mission of southern University and A&M College, an Historically Black, 1890 land-grant institution, is to provide opportunities for a diverse student population to achieve a high-quality, global educational experience, to engage in scholarly, research, and creative activities, and to give meaningful public service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world so that southern University graduates are competent, informed, and productive citizens.

Website: www.subr.edu.

The Office of Student Media is a Division of Student Affairs.

2010 SPRING DIGEST STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF norman J. dotson Jr.

A&E EDITOR Billy Washington

MANAGING EDITOR Mary davis

DIGEST STAFF WRITERS Morris dillard patrick galloway tremaine sanders evan taylor

COPY EDITORS Kenyetta M. Collins erica s. Johnson PHOTO EDITOR April Buffington

DIGEST PHOTOGRAPHERS trevor James Justin Wooten

LAYOUT EDITOR darrius Harrison

PROOFREADER darryl J. edwards

OPINIONS EDITOR Breanna paul

PAGE 2 ANNOUNCEMENTS & PAID CLASSIFIED INFO CLASSIFIED the southern digest is not responsible for the contents, promises, nor statements made in any classified and reserve the right to reject any ad request with explanation. no classified ads will be accepted or processed over the telephone and must accept the type font sizes of the digest.

ALL CLAssiFied MUst Be pAid in AdVAnCe By CAsHiers CHeCK or Money order. no personAL CHeCKs ACCepted. students must have proper id and phone numbers to get student advertising rates. rates do not apply to students who are representatives & employees of the company. in the event an error is made in a classified ad, immediate claims and notice must be given within 15 days. the digest is only responsible for one replacement or run in the next publication. Classified are due one WeeK prior to run date. paid Classified can be ordered by contacting the student Media Advertising Manager at 225.771.2230.

Address:

Daytime Phone: (

Page 2

PAGE 2 / CAMPUS BRIEFS All submissions must be received by 3 p.m. each Friday for Tuesday’s Issue and by 3 p.m. each Wednesday for Friday’s Issue. pAge 2 is only available to officially registered campus organizations, southern University departments.

All briefs should include a date, time, contact name & number. submit announcements to: the southern digest - suite 1064 Harris Hall, Attn: pAge 2 CORRECTIONS Fact and accuracy is our goal and our job. As the voice of the southern University student body we are committed to ensuring to most fair, truthful and accurate accounts of our work. in the event of an error we will make all corrections on page 2.

Bring corrections to the southern digest office located in suite 1064, Harris Hall.

NEWS

Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 3

www.southerndigest.com

District 63 candidates debate By breanna paul digest opinions editor

Four of the five candidates vying for the late Avon Honey’s District 63 Louisiana House of Representative seat shared their viewpoints on community issues at a debate hosted by the Southern University Chapter of NAACP. Candidates along with community members and SU students gathered in Higgins Hall to listen to Dalton Honoré (D), Dadrius Lanus (No party), Mark Milligan (D) and James Slaughter (D) answer questions from a very qualified panel and audience members.

The moderator for the evening was Ted James, Esq. Panelists Frank Brown, District 63 resident and chef at local restaurant Bayou Café, Langston Williams, 2009-2010 Southern University SGA Vice-President and Dr. Albert Williams, SU Political Science professor, asked the candidates questions pertaining to the district.

Dr. Albert Samuels asked all the candidates to name issues facing citizens of District 63 and how they will address them, if elected. Candidate Milligan said

he will work to get more jobs for the community. “We need jobs,” Milligan reinforced.

According to Candidate Lanus, District 63 faces problems regarding healthcare, education and crime. He also stated how he would start to change these issues. “I plan to get into the religious entities and start from there,” Lanus said.

Langston Williams specifically asked Candidate Slaughter what he has done to better Southern University, as most candidates graduated from SUBR. “Nothing,” Slaughter replied.

“I left here and went to New York. I have a wonderful time,” Slaughter continued.

Frank Brown asked all the candidates how they could take Southern University to benefit the district and how it can be involved to move forward in the community. Candidate Honoré, a product of both District 63 and Southern University, has hope that progress can be made on both ends.

Candidate Mark Milligan spoke of an oil change car shop at the back of campus that services student’s cars. Milligan hopes he can change some of the issues pertaining to the district.

“There are so many things to do,” Milligan said.

Being that Candidate Lanus is the youngest person to run for a Louisiana House of Representatives Seat (he is 22 years old), Williams asked him what qualifications does he have for the Representatives seat.

Lanus then repeated the question back to Williams. “Who in this race is qualified? No one has experience,” Lanus firmly stated.

After each candidate answered questions from the panelists, the moderator let audience members ask questions to the candidates.

Orell Muhammad, a fulltime student at the Louisiana Technical College, asked all the candidates how they will help the community win, lose or draw.

Candidate Milligan stated that he will get rest and go on a much-needed vacation because of the time and energy being put into the campaign. Milligan then hopes to continue implementing his project, The Unity Project.

Candidate Honoré will continue to help people in the community. “If elected, I do not need a vacation, I’ll go straight into working,” the retired sheriff said.

lead to over 10 arrests. Upon further investigation it was found that the young lady was not a student enrolled in the university for that semester.

“So many stay and think they can do it and get away with it,” said Morris as he discusses students who engage in drug activity. “We have a zero tolerance for drugs on this campus.”

In another case, SUPD caught a student selling drugs on campus. After they were arrested, to avoid expulsion, they found it in their favor to assist officers in future arrests.

“We called our lawyers to use this kid as an informant or undercover cop. He worked off his debt, went to treatment, and counseling. His goal was to get an education,” explained Morris.

Morris believes in apprehending criminals and testifying against them, something he says he has done on numerous occasions. However, he said, he does believe students who make stupid mistakes deserve a second chance.

“I’m in law enforcement but I want to see you graduate without a record,” Morris said.

Criminals are usually those who commit felonies; they aim to harm and hurt other people. They usually commit premeditated offenses. Morris said that when you display these qualities, you are no longer

making stupid mistakes, but are committing criminal acts.

“Criminals are those who cause significant fear,” said Morris.

According to Morris there have been many times he has shown up in court to speak on behalf of the culprit he arrested. He says that many times student’s make dumb mistakes and ask for forgiveness. He said that he doesn’t make assumptions on behavior based solely off of presentation.

“Just because you have dreads and tattoos doesn’t make you a criminal. You’re a student,” expressed Morris.

Southern University Police are also trained to handle emergency situations. They received special training to address possible emergencies such as hurricanes, storms, train wrecks, lightning incidents, and gas leakage from a plant.

“Our training for emergencies is in partnership with city of Baton Rouge and LA State Police. We have a team approach to emergencies,” said Morris.

Morris feels that the campus of SU is safe. As stats for past semesters show a decline in criminal activity compared to previous semesters.

“We are here to help each other. We have one goal, safety,” said Morris. “Law enforcement here is sound, solid, and prosecuted.”

supd from page 1 any local university or college, including LSU and BRCC, goes through the call center on Harding Boulevard. Also, those universities have to call SUPD to have a plate or name ran through the system, as they don’t have access to it.

“We manage everything right here,” said Morris.

SUPD officers have assisted in making many arrests and have helped in many investigations both in and outside of SU. According to Morris, earlier this semester the surveillance team saw a guy leaning under a car where he placed something under it. He then got into his car and left.

“We the found the owner of the car and called him to the scene. We asked ‘who would put something under your car?’”

Morris said.

According to Morris they then called the East Baton Rouge Sheriff Office’s bomb squad because they couldn’t make out whether the item was a tracking device or a bomb, they treated it as a bomb. After carefully removing the device, it was discovered to be a tracking device.

“Who did it and why? We don’t know,” said Morris.

There was a case in which SUPD was investigating involving a young lady smuggling drugs on campus from California through the SU Branch Post Office that

perc from page 1 financial aid policies •Realign the governance of Louisiana’s postsecondary education system So far, of the 22 recommendations made by PERC, only 4 recommendations have been converted into bills and filed thus far during the 2010 legislation session. The four recommendations filed are as follows: •Recommendation # 3: In an effort to support Louisiana’s public higher education system in remaining competitive and increasing its overall effectiveness and efficiency, the Legislature shall grant colleges and universities limited operational autonomy and tuition and fee authority consistent with the recommendations adopted by this Commission provided that institutions achieve specific, measurable performance outcomes aimed at improving their graduation/completion rates and numbers and meeting the state’s current and future workforce and economic development needs. (House bill (HB) 1171/ also referred to as the “GRAD Act”) • Recommendation #14: The governor, the Louisiana Legislature, and the citizens of Louisiana shall consider and approve changes to the constitution that will allow required budget cuts to be allocated across all possible state agencies and not fall disproportionately upon postsecondary education.

(Several bills have been filed) • Recommendation #20: The legislature shall restructure Louisiana’s postsecondary education system such that all four-year universities shall be governed by a single university board using the current structure of the Board of Regents required by the constitution as it relates to membership composition, including the provision for geographic representation and the provisions for members being representative of the state’s population by race and gender the ensure diversity, and that all technical and community colleges shall be governed by a single technical and community college board.

(HB 996 HB1224) • Recommendation #22: The legislature shall take steps during the 2010 regular session necessary to provide for the power, authority and responsibilities of the Board of Regents to become consistent with the recommendation put forth by the report issued by the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana issued in 2009 regarding higher education governance, until and unless a change in the governance structure occurs.

(Senate Bill (SB) 538/ filed

by PERC’s chairman Sen. Ben Nevers) Recommendation 20, HB966, failed Wednesday preventing the governing of all four-year university’s by a single board.

According to the Executive

Summary of the 22 recommendations, a major finding states, “Thousands of students have been admitted to public four-year institutions who would have been better served at community colleges.

The academic rigor at a four year institution often proves to be beyond student’s level of academic preparedness, leading to many dropping or stopping out of school before completing a program.”

The average student graduates from Southern University in 6 years and the average graduation rate 30 percent with a retention rate of 64 percent. The Southern University Board of Supervisors wants to implement the increase of academic standards before 2012 arrives because they want to make changes instead of the changes being imposed by the Board of Regents; however, the faculty senate does not improve of the changes and are currently forming a committee to examine and analyze the recommendations and statistics of other universities that raised admission standards. The faculty senate will meet and address the Board of Supervisors today to publicly inform the board of their decision.

The Executive Summary also states, “Although it is too early to determine the full impact of admission standards that became effective five years ago the commission determined that the current graduation rates in Louisiana are unacceptable and that further changes in the minimum standards are necessary.”

The commission also recommends that the state would be better served if institutions offered mission statements directed towards specific programs and interacts with within a comprehensive system meaning all mission statements from all schools will be similar.

Southern University was founded and established as an open admission institution which gave anyone an opportunity to earn an education.

According to the Mission Summary Statements, included within the LA Master Plan Draft, The Southern University mission statement states, “Southern University and A&M College embraces a singular mission: to build a strong citizenry by educating and empowering the underrepresented (low- income and or minority) segments of the state’s population.

Students, Faculty, and Alumni are mainly concerned with this recommendation because if the tuition continues to increase and if admission standards increase, the identity of SU being a HBCU will likely diminish.

To find out more about recommendations being filed and to keep posted, visit legis. la.gov to find out what’s going on with the 22 recommendations made by PERC.

Page 4 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

top 10 from page 1 presented early Tuesday morning, April 22, with two options — resign or be terminated.

“These were McClinton’s exact words to me, ‘Chief, Southern University decided that the Police Department needs to go in a different direction and that doesn’t include you. You can either resign or be terminated,’” said Morris.

9. The Swine-Flu Epidemic There are several diseases and illnesses that are major concerns amid the college audience. As HIV and other STDs are located at the top of the list, illnesses such as the common cold and stomach viruses are found near the bottom of the ongoing list. The H1N1 fl u outbreak turned into a serious epidemic that caught the attention and concern of not only the middle aged and elderly American citizens, but the college students as well.

8. The Deaths of Micheal Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Patrick Swayze On June 25, 2009 singer Michael Jackson died after he suffered cardiac arrest at his home in the Holmby Hills neighborhood in Los Angeles, California. His service and burial was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery of Glendale on September 3, 2009, 10 weeks to the day after his death.

Fawcett died of cancer on June 25, 2009, in the intensive care unit of Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, with O’Neal and Stewart by her side. A private funeral was held in Los Angeles on June 30 and she is buried at the Westwood Village Memorial Park in Los Angeles, California.

Swayze died “with family at his side” on September 14, 2009, at age 57, 20 months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He was cremated and his ashes scattered over his New Mexico ranch.

7. SU System Presidential Search The SU Presidential Candidate interviews were conducted in the J.S. Clark Administration Building Tuesday April 13 for five hours. The candidates selected for interview were Ronald Mason, President of Jackson State University and native of New Orleans, Carolyn Meyers of North Carolina A&T, Leonard Haynes III, former Executive Vice President of the Southern University System and pastime football player for SU, Robert Jennings, former president of Alabama A&M, and Marvin Yates, former chancellor of SU. 6. SU’s Women’s Basketball team becoming SWAC Champions The Southern University women’s basketball team won their first outright Southwestern Athletic Conference regular season title since the 2005-06 season with a 61-53 victory over Texas Southern and advance on to the NCAA tournament but were defeated by No.1-ranked team in the nation Connecticut in the first round.

5. haiti earthquake The magnitude 7.0 earthquake that rocked Haiti last week has claimed over an estimated 200,000 lives with many more injured, homeless and searching for relief was devastated when a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the country less than 10 miles west of Port-au-Prince.

The earthquake sent approximately 33 aftershocks throughout the country, is estimated to be as deadly as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which killed an estimated 230,000 people in a dozen countries.

4. Saints win the Super Bowl The New Orleans Saints’ run to Sunday’s Super Bowl victory over the Indianapolis

Colts not only sparked celebrations among fans in New Orleans, but fans among Southern University students as well. This win was the first Super Bowl victory in franchise history.

3. Firing of Pete Richardson/Hiring of Stump Mitchell Pete Richardson, the football coach at Southern University for 17 years, was fired along with most of his staff. Known as the “Dean of the SWAC,” Richardson had a 13462 record in his 17 years at Southern. That included four, 11-win seasons and one 12win season.

Washington Redskins running backs coach Stump Mitchell has accepted the head-coaching job at Southern University.

Mitchell interviewed with Southern and was offered the job Dec. 31.

2. Healthcare Reform House Democrats scored a historic victory in the century-long battle to reform the nation’s health-care system, winning final approval of legislation that expands coverage to 32 million people and attempts to contain spiraling costs.

As a result of President Obama’s new healthcare overhaul, starting in July 2010 higher educational institutions must move to a Direct Lending Program.

1. Devastating Budget Cuts at SU Across the state budget cuts to higher education have been approximately $119 million dollars this year and more are expected for next year. According to Chancellor Kofi Lomotey, Gov. Bobby Jindal announced an estimated amount of $146 million to be cut in education across the state and out of that estimate Southern University’s cut on this campus would be between $5 to $8 million.

Poll: Black teens more optimistic CHICAGO (AP) — Bria Fleming has been through a lot in the last year, including her mother’s hospitalization and job loss and a fire in their home.

It’d be enough to get most 18-year-olds down.

But the black high school student is surprisingly optimistic about the future and her chances for a better life — an attitude common among her African-American peers, according to a new nationwide survey of high school students.

“I know kids who’ve been through less and maybe they can’t handle it,” said Fleming, who will head to Florida A&M University in the fall in hopes of eventually becoming a veterinarian. “But my mom always tells me, ‘Work hard, stay positive and you’ll make it.’”

A poll released Thursday by Hamilton College in Clinton, N.Y., found that 70 percent of black students ages 15 to 18 thought their standard of living would be better than their parents, compared with just 36 percent of white students.

Overall, 39 percent of respondents thought they would have a higher living standard.

www.southerndigest.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 5

‘Avatar’: deeper than just sci-fi By billy washington digest a&E editor

When I first heard of Avatar, my mind automatically went blank. I assumed that it was a boring sci-fi type of movie like Star Wars or a magically fairy tale movie like Harry Potter.

Ever since Red Box (a DVD vending machine that allows customers to rent movies for a dollar a night) came to Baton Rouge, I have been renting those movies that I was skeptical of on debut day.

After viewing Avatar, I can truly say that Avatar will be recorded as one of the greatest movies of all time. It reminds me of the rants and raves of the Lion King Era. Avatar is based on the Na’vi tribe, who are 10-foot blue-skinned species of sapient humanoids.

They also live in harmony with nature and are in tune with their surroundings. They worshipped a god named Eywa, who was the god of nature.

The plot of the movie is very similar to the September 2009 release of Surrogates, which starred Bruce Willis.

Surrogates and Avatar share many similar characteristics because they both describe the future when singularity, artificial intelligence and the mass production of androids

will be created. These movies are considered by some as conspiracy theory movies; however, I believe these movies have some facts of importance within them. After reading a GQ article written

by Christopher Griffith, titled Are You Ready for Singularity, I found out there have been many books and presentations made by big name scientists who have declared that the introduction of robots and artificial intelligence will be in full-blown stages by the year 2030.

Avatar broadened my views on singularity and illustrated how the surrogates or avatars can be used by the military for defense purposes. Just like the invention of the gun, an Avatar is an invention that can be either used for good deeds or malign corruption.

Within the movie, the Avatars were used by the U.S. military to infiltrate the Na’vi people of Pandora. If one would look behind the original story plot they would also see indicators of the Vietnam War, the Iraq War, The colonialism period, and the barbaric/ savagery history of America. I also saw how the Na’vi people had their head braided, talked in a language similar to mdw ntr (pronounced medew netcher -an ancient Egyptian tongue),

SU student wins Essence essay contest By billy washington digest a&E editor

One of Southern University’s very own has been selected winner of the Essence magazine/ Johnson and Johnson, “What’s Your Beauty Secret Essay Contest?”

Brittany Adolph, senior history major and native of Baton Rouge, received a call from a Johnson and Johnson representative earlier this month informing Adolph of her award which includes a first class flight to New York, a hotel suite, a Johnson & Johnson gift basket worth $200, a makeover from a professional make up artist, and a feature advertisement for Johnson & Johnson which will be placed in an upcoming Essence issue. She will be leaving in three weeks.

“I didn’t think I would win because of the probability,” said

Adolph.

Adolph submitted a two-page essay that outlined her beauty secret. She admits that her secret involves pouring two caps of Johnson & Johnson’s baby oil into her bath water. “ Ever since I was a little girl I have always had dry skin. My mother actually told me that if I pour baby oil in my bath water my skin would become moisturized and radiant,” informed Adolph.

Not only was Adolph excited and surprised to be selected among thousands but she also learned from the acceptance experience.

“If you actually go out for something, you might be successful. You should at least try,” expressed Adolph.

African Americans are also known for having some type of Johnson and Johnson product in their household.

photo by 20th century fox/ap photo

In this undated file film publicity image originally released by 20th Century Fox, the character Neytiri, voiced by Zoe Saldana, right, and the character Jake, voiced by Sam Worthington are shown in a scene from, “Avatar.” Twentieth Century Fox on Sunday announced that James Cameron’s sci-fi epic has sold 2.7 million Blu-rays and 4 million DVDs since April 22.

and characters names were similar to Egyptian gods such as Avatar characters Neytiri’s and her mother Mo’at.

Neytiris is emblematical to the Egyptian gods Nefertiti and Isis while Mo’at is equivalent to the Egyptian goddess of balance and harmony, Ma’at.

I believe it is safe to say that the movie was based on our history, that is black history.

We are the indigenous peoples of the world and history

illustrates how the European, Caucasian, Greco-Roman influenced cultures have taken our land from us and other indigenous peoples for centuries; however; Avatar’s ending is monumental because the people of Pandora united and defeated America with the assistance of Eywa, which if one looks closely at Eywa, one can see that it’s very similar to Yahweh (YHWH/Jehovah), which is the most high God

of all Bible, Torah and Quran based religions.

I only saw Avatar once and I’m pretty sure there are more pieces of the puzzle I haven’t figured out yet and if you haven’t checked out this amazing movie visit a Red Box as soon as possible to see how we, as human beings, must band against injustices and corruption that’s being demonstrated by America.

Page 6 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

Rideau pens readable autobiography By mary foster associated press writer

“In the Place of Justice: A Story of Punishment and Deliverance” (Alfred Knopf, 368 pages, $26.95), by Wilbert Rideau: Wilbert Rideau, who went to prison as a terrified 19-year-old and emerged 44 years later as an award-winning journalist, has written “In the Place of Justice: A Story of Punishment and Deliverance,” an account of the time he spent in prison and the crime that sent him there.

Rideau tells his story in riveting detail, beginning with how he grew up a poor black kid in heavily segregated Lake Charles, La. He writes about the crime that landed him on death row at Angola, Louisiana’s penitentiary, then known as the bloodiest prison in the nation: It was an ill-conceived bank robbery hatched by a naive kid who planned to finish in time to meet his ride home so he wouldn’t have to face the danger of waiting for the bus in the white part of town.

Rideau also makes a convincing argument that he was kept in prison far longer than anyone else convicted of murder in 1961 because he is a black man who killed a white

woman — bank teller Julia Ferguson.

The amazing part of Rideau’s story, however, is his transformation from an uneducated, prejudiced teen to a thoughtful, well-read adult who became so well-respected by prison wardens that they began calling on him for help and advice.

Rideau became editor of The Angolite. He writes of his goal to make the magazine a truly independent journal of prison life. Several wardens supported the effort, especially C. Paul Phelps. Rideau became close to Phelps, and dedicated his book to him.

The Angolite won several national prizes, including a George Polk Award and a Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award.

Rideau has surprisingly kind words for Angola’s wardens, except for Burl Cain, the present warden. Among other things, he accuses Cain of undermining the independence of The Angolite and of keeping awards Rideau had won for his work on several video projects.

Rideau’s death sentence was commuted to life in prison after the U.S. Supreme Court outlawed the then-existing death penalty in 1972. He was found guilty of murder twice

Rwanda leader takes stage

more, but was finally freed in 2005 after a manslaughter conviction, for which he was sentenced to 21 years. This allowed him to be freed for time served, after 44 years behind bars.

The picture of prison life painted by Rideau isn’t the one portrayed in many movies.

There is violence and brutality, especially for the weak, who become slaves of powerful prisoners, providing sex and other services, he writes. But Rideau mostly shows that

prison is a place where people are still living their lives and violence, for the most part, is targeted.

Not that Rideau — and most of his fellow prisoners — were without knives. The logic, which he argues is sound, was that it was better to be caught by the guards with a knife than by your enemies without one.

Amazingly, after the fear, the periods of isolation and the hate he experienced, Rideau was able to lead a productive life and help others.

NEW YORK (AP) — The tall thin man strode to the stage at the Tribeca Film Festival and fielded a few questions about one of the main subjects of the documentary just screened — himself: Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

The president’s star turn Monday night before a chic crowd in lower Manhattan was less surprising considering it was the world premiere of a documentary that portrays Kagame, who is up for reelection in August, in a heroic light. After the 88-minute film, “Earth Made of Glass,” ended, filmgoers welcomed him with a standing ovation.

“When you want reconciliation and justice at the same time, they tend to conflict,” he replied to one question. “That’s what happens every day in our country.”

Kagame also pledged to continue cooperating with his nation’s former sworn enemy, Congo. The two nations teamed up for a joint operation last year against the extremist Rwandan Hutu rebels who fled to eastern Congo, after Kagame’s rebel army ended the 1994 genocide.

Rwanda has, together with neighbor Uganda, twice invaded Congo — in 1994 and 1998.

STATE & NATION

Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 7

www.southerndigest.com

Spill grows larger

Obama hails Height

By holbrook mohr & cain burdeau associated press WRITERs

By brett zongker & julie pace

VENICE, La. — An oil spill that threatened to eclipse even the Exxon Valdez disaster spread out of control and drifted inexorably toward the Gulf Coast on Thursday as fishermen rushed to scoop up shrimp and crews spread floating barriers around marshes.

The spill was both bigger and closer than imagined — five times larger than first estimated, with the leading edge just three miles from the Louisiana shore.

Authorities said it could reach the Mississippi River delta by Thursday night.

“It is of grave concern,” David Kennedy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, told The Associated Press. “I am frightened. This is a very, very big thing. And the efforts that are going to be required to do anything about it, especially if it continues on, are just mindboggling.”

The oil slick could become the nation’s worst environmental disaster in decades, threatening hundreds of species of fish, birds and other wildlife along the Gulf Coast, one of the world’s richest seafood grounds, teeming with shrimp, oysters and other marine life.

The leak from the ocean floor proved to be far bigger than initially reported, contributing to a growing sense among many in Louisiana that the government failed them again, just as it did during Hurricane Katrina. President Barack Obama dispatched Cabinet officials to deal with the crisis.

Cade Thomas, a fishing guide in Venice, worried that his livelihood will be destroyed. He said he did not know whether to blame the Coast Guard, the federal government or oil company BP PLC. “They lied to us. They came out and said it was leaking 1,000 barrels when I think they knew it was more. And they weren’t proactive,” he said. “As soon as it blew up, they should have started wrapping it with booms.”

The Coast Guard worked with BP, which operated the oil rig that exploded and sank last week, to deploy floating booms, skimmers and chemical dispersants, and set controlled fires to burn the oil off the water’s surface.

The Coast Guard urged the company to formally request more resources from the Defense

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama on Thursday eulogized Dorothy Height as a history-making figure in the civil rights movement whose quiet perseverance produced gains in “a righteous cause.”

Speaking to hundreds of mourners in the stately Washington National Cathedral, Obama recounted Height’s commitment to the cause during decades of work, mostly behind the scenes while the movement’s male leaders earned more attention and fame.

“She never cared about who got the credit,” the president said. “What she cared about was the cause. The cause of justice, the cause of equality, the cause of opportunity, freedom’s cause.”

His 13-minute tribute often drew gentle laughter as Obama remembered Height’s doggedness and energy. Height, who died last week at age 98, led the National Council of Negro Women for decades and marched with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Height visited the Obama White House 21 times, the president said. He noted that she was determined to attend a meeting of African-American leaders on unemployment last winter even though she was in a wheelchair and a blizzard was approaching.

She wouldn’t allow “just a bunch of men” to control the meeting, Obama said. When Height’s attendance became impossible because cars could not reach her snow-choked driveway, he said, she still sent a message with her ideas.

Noting Height’s trademark attire, Obama said, “we loved those hats she wore like a crown.

Regal.”

He cited her role in desegregating the YWCA and in leading the National Council of Negro Women with “vision and energy, vision and class.” He said her name should be associated with great leaders such as King and W.E.B. DuBois.

“She too deserves a place in our history books,” Obama said.

“She too deserves a place of honor in America’s memory.”

He urged Americans to honor Height’s memory by serving their country and making it better. “We can all be drum majors for a righteous cause,” the president said.

associated press WRITERs

photo by patrick semansky/ap photo

Workers load oil booms onto a crew boat to assist in the containment of oil from a leaking pipeline in the Gulf of Mexico near the coast of Louisiana in Venice, La., Thursday. The leak resulted from last week’s explosion and collapse of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig.

Department. A BP executive said the corporation would “take help from anyone.”

Government officials said the blown-out well 40 miles offshore is spewing five times as much oil into the water as originally estimated — about 5,000 barrels, or 200,000 gallons, a day.

At that rate, the spill could easily eclipse the worst oil spill in U.S. history — the 11 million gallons that leaked from the grounded tanker Exxon Valdez in Alaska’s Prince William Sound in 1989 — in the three months it could take to drill a relief well and plug the gushing well 5,000 feet underwater on the sea floor.

Ultimately, the spill could grow much larger than the Valdez because Gulf of Mexico wells typically hold many times more oil than a single tanker.

Doug Suttles, chief operating officer for BP Exploration and Production, had initially disputed the government’s larger estimate. But he later acknowledged on NBC’s “Today” show that the leak may be as bad as federal officials say. He said there was no way to measure the flow at the seabed, so estimates have to come from how much oil rises to the surface.

Mike Brewer, 40, who lost his oil spill response company in the devastation of Hurricane Katrina nearly five years ago, said the area was accustomed to the occasional minor spill.

But he feared the scale of the escaping oil was beyond the capacity of existing resources.

“You’re pumping out a massive amount of oil. There is no way to stop it,” he said.

An emergency shrimping season was opened to allow shrimpers to scoop up their catch before it is fouled by oil.

Cannons were to be used to scare off birds. And shrimpers were being lined up to use their boats as makeshift skimmers in

the shallows.

This murky water and the oysters in it have provided a livelihood for three generations of Frank and Mitch Jurisich’s family in Empire, La. Now, on the open water just beyond the marshes, they can smell the oil that threatens everything they know and love.

“Just smelling it, it puts more of a sense of urgency, a sense of fear,” Frank Jurisich said.

The brothers hope to get all the oysters they can sell before the oil washes ashore. They filled more than 100 burlap sacks Thursday and stopped to eat some oysters.

“This might be our last day,” Mitch Jurisich said.

Without the fishing industry, Frank Jurisich said the family “would be lost. This is who we are and what we do.”

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal declared a state of emergency Thursday so officials could begin preparing for the oil’s impact. He said at least 10 wildlife management areas and refuges in his state and neighboring Mississippi are in the oil plume’s path.

The declaration also noted that billions of dollars have been invested in coastal restoration projects that may be at risk.

As dawn broke Thursday in the oil industry hub of Venice, about 75 miles from New Orleans and not far from the mouth of the Mississippi River, crews loaded an orange oil boom aboard a supply boat at Bud’s Boat Launch.

There, local officials expressed frustration with the pace of the government’s response and the communication they were getting from the Coast Guard and BP officials.

“We’re not doing everything we can do,” said Billy Nungesser, president of Plaquemines Parish, which straddles the Mississippi River at the tip of Louisiana.

Tension was growing in towns like Port Sulphur and Empire

along Louisiana Highway 23, which runs south of New Orleans along the Mississippi River into prime oyster and shrimping waters.

Companies like Chevron and ConocoPhillips have facilities nearby, and some residents are hesitant to criticize BP or the federal government, knowing the oil industry is as much a staple here as fishing.

“I don’t think there’s a lot of blame going around here.

People are just concerned about their livelihoods,” said Sullivan Vullo, who owns La Casa Cafe in Port Sulphur.

A federal class-action lawsuit was filed late Wednesday on behalf of two commercial shrimpers from Louisiana, Acy J. Cooper Jr. and Ronnie Louis Anderson.

The suit seeks at least $5 million in compensatory damages plus an unspecified amount of punitive damages against Transocean, BP, Halliburton Energy Services Inc. and Cameron International Corp.

In Buras, La., where Hurricane Katrina made landfall in 2005, the owner of the Black Velvet Oyster Bar & Grill couldn’t keep his eyes off the television. News and weather shows were making projections that oil would soon inundate the coastal wetlands where his family has worked since the 1860s.

It was as though a hurricane was approaching, maybe worse.

“A hurricane is like closing your bank account for a few days, but this here has the capacity to destroy our bank accounts,” said Byron Marinovitch, 47.

“We’re really disgusted,” he added. “We don’t believe anything coming out of BP’s mouth.”

Signs of the 2005 hurricane are still apparent here: There are schools, homes, churches and restaurants operating out of trailers, and across from Marinovitch’s bar is a wood frame house abandoned since the storm.

Page 8 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

Texas ‘terrorist’ posts death threat against Obama By jeff carlton associated press writer

photo bytravis spradling/AP PHOTO State Rep. Rickey Hardy, left, D-Lafayette, gets a handshake and mock bow from Southern University Board of Supervisors chairman Tony Clayton, right, outside the House Education Committee Room, just after an 8-8 vote deferred HB996, which would have consolidated the state’s four-year university boards and systems into one, at the State Capitol Wednesday.

Merger plan fails in committee by the associated press

A push to merge the governing boards for four-year public colleges failed to get legislative traction Wednesday, stalling in a House committee despite the sponsorship of House Speaker Jim Tucker and the backing of Gov. Bobby Jindal.

Higher education leaders opposed the proposal, saying it wouldn’t improve the performance of schools and could absorb time and distract from

other attempts to make those improvements.

Tucker disagreed, arguing it would cut down on turf battles that lead to mediocrity.

The House Education Committee deadlocked on the bill. The 8-8 vote stalled it in committee.

The proposal would get rid of the separate governing boards that oversee the LSU System, the University of Louisiana System and the Southern University System — and the Board of Regents that currently oversees all of them.

DALLAS — A Dallas man describing himself as a terrorist threatened to kill President Barack Obama in an online posting because he was upset about health care reform, according to a criminal complaint.

Brian Dean Miller, 43, faces one count of making threats against the president, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He is scheduled for arraignment in federal court Friday.

His public defender and his mother did not return phone messages Thursday.

According to a criminal complaint, Miller made the death threats March 21 on Craigslist under a posting titled “Obama must die.” The posting said he was following through on a promise to become a terrorist if the federal health care bill passed.

“I am dedicating my life to the death of Obama and every employee of the federal government,” the posting said.

It ended with a call to arms: “This is war. Join me. Or don’t.

I don’t care. I’m not laying down anymore.”

He said, “Today I become a terrorist.”

In a separate post the same night, Miller essentially dared others to turn him in to the Secret Service, according to the complaint. He allegedly wrote that others should “feel free to notify them if it helps you sleep better tonight. You should tell them I threatened to kill the president and destroy the U.S. government. Maybe you would like to quote the post as your evidence.”

A resident of Arlington, Texas, reported the threats to the Secret Service. Agents tracked down Miller at his Dallas home, where he lives with his mother, according to the complaint.

Police arrested Miller and seized his computer. They found no weapons in the residence.

Miller’s mother told agents her son is “frequently depressed, prone to verbal outbursts and may be suicidal,” according to the complaint. Her son initially refused to answer questions, then acknowledged he made the threats. He said everything posted on Craigslist was “fictional.”

According to the complaint, when the agents asked if Miller wanted to kill the president, he told them: “Yes, I would kill him, if I were a different person.

I would kill them all.”

Miller was previously arrested in 1993 on a charge of telephone harassment, according to

SPORTS

Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 9

www.southerndigest.com

Jags aim to tame Lions

SWAC track meet under way

By justin wooten

The 2010 SWAC Track and Field Championships began Thursday at Tad Gormley Stadium with competition in the heptathon, decathlon, and the 10,000 meters. Texas Southern’s Clifton Swift won four of the five events held in the decathlon on the day and dominated the field, building a 577-point lead at the halfway point. Alabama State’s Tyrisha Chambers won all but one of the four heptathlon events to build a 290 point lead after day one.

UAPB’s Jimmy Oribo won the 10,000 meters for the men giving the Golden Lions the team lead after just one event.

Grambling’s Grace Korir won the women’s 10,000 meter, but UAPB holds the team lead after placing second, third and fifth in the event.Day two begins today at 9:30 a.m. with the completion of the heptathlon and decathlon.

Field event finals today include the men’s and women’s hammer throw along with the women’s pole vault. Field events are set to begin at 1:30 p.m.

digest news service

digest SPORTS writer

Southern took its lumps Tuesday on the road against Southeastern Louisiana, falling 11-6 in Hammond.

The Jaguars must now lick their wounds as they prepare to open what head coach Roger Cador called “a key series” this weekend against ArkansasPine Bluff. The three-game Southwestern Athletic Conference series at Lee-Hines Field begins with a Saturday doubleheader that begins at noon and concludes Sunday a 1 p.m. single game.

“They’re unpredictable, and so are we,” Cador said. “So we have two unpredictable teams playing each other.”

Southern (14-15, 10-4) enters this weekend one game behind Western Division leader Texas Southern (23-20, 13-5) in the standings. However, the Jaguars

photo by april buffington/digest

Southern’s Curtis Wilson takes a cut against Jackson State during last weekend’s game. Wilson and the Jaguars host Arkansas-Pine Bluff this weekend for a three-game series at Lee-Hines Field.

are in a three-game skid after dropping two heartbreakers to Jackson State last weekend before losing to Southeastern in their last outing.

The Jaguars took two out of three from the Golden Lions (15-21, 7-11) earlier this season.

The SU-UAPB series opens a home stretch that includes road series at Texas Southern and Grambling State, along with two games against an Alcorn State ball club that is near the

top of the Eastern Division.

The UAPB series is also the Jaguars’ final series at LeeHines field this season. SU’s next games at Lee-Hines are a May 11 date with Louisiana-Lafayette and a May 18 tilt against ASU. The Jags will send Jarret Maloy (1-1, 7.12 ERA) in the Saturday opener and Kyle Wahl toe the rubber in the Saturday evening game.

“I haven’t been doing my job as a starting pitcher,” said

Wahl, who was a relief pitcher last season. “I just have to get my confidence, because next month will key, we have to finish strong. If I pitch my best, I can help us win.”

Belfred Pryer (3-3, 3.62 ERA) gets the starting nod for Sunday. Pryer won his last two home starts against GSU and Florida A&M. “He has pitched relatively well for us,” Cador said. “He needs to keep improving.”

Lady Jags fall in SWAC Tournament opener digest news service

IRONDALE, Ala. — Three of the four lower seeds pulled off upsets in the first round of the SWAC Softball Championship to continue in the winner’s bracket heading into Day Two of the tournament.

Alabama State, Grambling State, Mississippi Valley State, and Jackson State all left Thursday’s action with wins while Southern, Alcorn State, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, and Texas Southern all fall into the loser’s bracket and elimination games on Friday.

Action resumes today with a pair of 1 p.m. games: Southern vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Alcorn State vs. Texas Southern.

Friday’s slate concludes with Alabama State vs. Mississippi Valley State and Grambling State vs. Jackson State at 3:30 p.m.

Alabama St. 8, Southern 4 Ayesha Famble had two hits and two RBI’s to help lift Alabama State over Southern in a first round upset. The Lady Hornets led throughout the game and withstood a three-run sixth inning surge by the Jaguars to claim the victory and continue in the winner’s bracket.

Grambling State 5, Alcorn State 4 Grambling State rattled off four runs in the first inning to get an early jump in an upset win over Alcorn. Kiara Dedeaux went 3-for3 in the game while Latice Wood was 2-for-4

get online @

with two RBIs to help the Lady Tigers secure the win and advance in the winner’s bracket.

The Lady Braves were led by Christina Garcia with two hits and an RBI. Mississippi Valley 6, UAPB 1 Kimberly Spivey pitched a no-hitter as Mississippi Valley State soared past Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Alexandria Robertson’s had two hits and two RBIs for the Devilettes while six other batters recorded hits in the win. CeCe Kolesar scored the Lady Lion’s lone run of the game.

Jackson State 8, Texas Southern 6 Amanda Boggan had five hits while Wendi Reed, Delyse Montgomery, and Brittany Talley each recorded three hits to help Jackson State secure the upset win over Texas Southern. In a game that went an extra inning, the Lady Tigers scored two pivotal runs in the top of the eighth to claim the victory. Texas Southern was led

by Jessica Haynes who went 3-for-4 with three RBIs. SU players earn top conference honors The Southwestern Athletic Conference announced its 2010 All-Conference softball honors Wednesday, with Southern’s Shawntall Steamer and Lanaya Jenkins claiming top honors. The teams were voted on by the schools’ coaches and sports information departments.

Steamer took home 2010 Player and Freshman of the Year. Steamer had an exceptional freshman campaign this season for the Jaguars. She ranked first on her team and eighth in the conference with a .364 batting average. She also finished the regular-season ranked first in the SWAC in hits (47), triples (10), and total bases (79); third in runs scored (29), and fourth in slugging percentage (.612) and runs batted in (27).

Jenkins won 2010 Pitcher of the Year.

Jenkins ranked first on her team and third in the SWAC with a 3.37 earned run average.

She was the second winningest pitcher in the conference, registering 12 victories. She also ranked third in the league in opposing batter average (.267) and fourth in batters struck out (69).

Jackson State’s Wendi Reed has been named the 2010 Hitter of the YearReed led her team and was 10th in the SWAC with a .353 batting average. From her second base position, she also led her team with 25 RBIs (eighth in the SWAC) and was second on her squad and eighth in the conference with 26 runs scored.

Shortstop Jasmine Hubbard of Alcorn State has been selected the 2010 Newcomer of the Year. Hubbard was the second-leading hitter on her team with a .349 batting average. She was second in the SWAC in runs scored (30) while also ranking fourth in total bases (62), eighth in slugging percentage (.569), and ninth in hits (38).

www.southerndigest.com

Read the

at WWW.

southern digest .com

GRADUATES Spring 2010 Page 10 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

This list was obtained from the Southern University Registrar’s Office and the Graduate School as of April 30, 2010. If you have any questions or discrepancies PLEASE CONTACT YOUR INDIVIDUAL COLLEGE or REGISTRAR’S OFFICE @ 225.771.5050 or THE GRADUATE SCHOOL OFFICE @ 225.771.5390. This is not the final official listing for the Spring 2010 candidates for graduation. The list will be updated daily in the Registrar’s office and Graduate school office. This list of graduates represents the most accurate information available at the time of publication. The appearance of a name on this list and/or participation in the ceremonies is presumptive of graduation, but not conclusive.

Southern University and A&M College Spring 2010 Candidates for Degrees COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL, FAMILY, AND CONSUMER SCIENCES Dewitt Jones, Ph.D., Dean Nancy J. Reed, Student Marshal Bachelor of Science Justin Anderson, Opelousas Ashley Lynn Bailey, St. Francisville Monica Ontrelle Bailey, Baton Rouge Vanessa Benee Brown Baltazar, Baton Rouge Ceciley Renee Chretien, Broussard Bryanca Aurielle Coleman, Harvey Lashika Mone’ Crayton, Gonzales Deona E. Eubanks, Lawerence, Kansas Heather Danielle Franklin, Port Allen Marissa Elizabeth Franklin, Baton Rouge Trenton Lee Gordon, Brusly Chantell Nyree Haile, Zachary LaShondria Michee’ Hart, Shreveport Gregory Johnson Jr., Kenner LaToya Janay Jones, New Roads Ariel Taryan Layman, Baton Rouge Clara Olivia Lopez, Bogalusa Rondelle Michelle Moore, Baldwin Evinn Christin Moreland, San Diego Frederick Murray, Alexandria Adele Spain Reed, Washington, D.C. Nancy J. Reed, Baton Rouge Brittney Jenese Seay, Bastrop Courtney Dewayne Trask, Baton Rouge Jamie N. Victorian, Lake Charles Tommy Anthony Watson, Tallulah Miranda Renee Williams, Baton Rouge Crystal Levell Wilson, Baker Bachelor of Science in Urban Forestry Kenneth Spencer Barbee, Lake Charles Larry Taureil Cyprian, Amite Kurt Dunmore, Baton Rouge Edward Anthony Galmon, Greenburg Myron Alvin Green, New Orleans Ezekiel Hamilton, Breaux Bridge DeAndre Lloyd, Baton Rouge Brian Watkins, Baton Rouge SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE Lonnie Wilkinson, M. Arch, Dean Clarence Scott Eugene, Student Marshal Bachelor of Architecture Clarence Scott Eugene III, New Orleans COLLEGE OF ARTS AND HUMANITIES Joyce O’Rourke, Ph.D., Dean Jason Michael O’Dell, Student Marshal Bachelor of Arts Kimberly Adams, Baton Rouge April Michelle Benoit Baham, Baton Rouge CaShonda Renee Bankston, Baton Rouge Rodney Wayne Brown, Bogalusa Mystee Nakia Burrell, Alexandria Brian Keith Cain Jr., New Orleans Alicia Monique Collins, Baton Rouge Areisha Moneek Collins, Lake Providence Michael J. Daniel, Baton Rouge Kimberly Melissa Duhon, Baton Rouge Ebone Rose Etienne, Baton Rouge Latotsy Markeita Jackson, Baton Rouge Shenell LaTonya Johnson, New Orleans Shontrell LaToya Johnson, New Orleans Ashley Shantae Landry, Baton Rouge Elyssa Morganette Lassister, Vicksburg, Miss.

Richell Monique Lee, Port Allen Jason Michael O’Dell, Zachary Brittany Sharie Pierre, Opelousas NaTyra Janee’ Price, Richmond, Texas Phetris Monique Russell, St. Francisville Jesse Wallace Jr., Ama Jasmine Thenell Warren, Terrytown Stanley White Jr., Baton Rouge Jazzlyn R. Whitfield, Baton Rouge Bryan M. Williams, Ardmore, Okla.

Terron Frank Williams, Berkeley, Calif.

Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication Lynwood John Albert Jr., Baton Rouge Kenyetta Monique Collins, Baton Rouge Ashley Nichole’ Curry, Greenwell Springs Ariane Gallardo, New Orleans Erin Brittany Greene, Baton Rouge Tamarah Charelle Hallmon, Coushatta Jamie Nicole Joseph, Reserve Richard Foluso Kuti, Kingsville, Texas Elyssa Morganette Lassister, Vicksburg, Miss.

Latisha Katres Davis Livous, Baton Rouge LaResa Rena’ Pierre, Opelousas Adam Warren Powell, Indianapolis LaTara Charlayna Riley, Orlando, Fla. Travis Anthony Richard, Opelousas Jessica Lee Robinson, New Orleans Jerrica Jenee’ Skidmore, Gonzales Javen Rashad Smith, Vacherie Courtney Nathaniel Stepter, Baton Rouge

Brittany Monique Taylor, Independence Jelisha K. Thomas, Slidell Tamara Monique Ventress, Baton Rouge Byron Terrell Wade, Baton Rouge Cortney D. Wesley, Dallas Klevelandria Katrice Whitson, Shreveport

Dominique M. Waldrup, Houston Vincent H. Winston, Chicago

Bachelor of Music Jonathan P. Metoyer, Alexandria

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education Chrisdyana Morgan, Norwood Keva Lavarity Nelson, Baton Rouge

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Donald R. Andrews, Ph.D., Dean Mercy Akpowenie Ukpolo, Student Marshal Bachelor of Science in Accounting Cassandra M. Bellazin, Baton Rouge Desmond J. Chatman, Lake Charles Darius D. Dent, Baton Rouge Kenya K. Evans, Baton Rouge Jo Ann Favron, Baton Rouge Victoria M. Foster, Greenwell Springs Brittany N. Gibson, Baker Ketha Nequetta Golden, Baton Rouge Ayla A. Goodson, Mobile, Ala. Kimberly Y. Hamilton, Pride Monique N. Johnson, Baton Rouge Pamela D. Jones, Port Allen Cassandra R. LaCour, Baton Rouge Sade’ C. Lee, New Orleans LaJuna D. Jones Scott, Greenwell Springs Ashley C. Soelv, Baton Rouge Benjamin Stove III, Baker Bernell Tassin Jr., Reserve Dalatte S. Taylor, Baker Kim-Qua T. Tran, Baton Rouge James Lee Washington Jr., Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Economics Nicholas Charles Crawley-Brown, Baton Rouge David L. Robertson, Lake Charles Bachelor of Arts in Electronic Business Jeremy Beckham, Lakeland Bachelor of Science in Finance Gabrielle Banks, Baton Rouge Tiffany C. Cantu, Dallas Renwick Clivens, New Orleans Jonathan Etuk, Baton Rouge Dante L. Holmes, Sugar Land, Texas Trinece Richards, Houston Gregory Sentimore, LaPlace Demetria E. Spland, Baton Rouge Hoang Huy Tran, Baton Rouge Jazzston Williams, Pearland, TX Bachelor of Science in Business Management Kanshia Avinger, Lake Charles Romey A. Bracey, Chicago Torey Brown, Starkville, Miss.

Eric S. Burrell, Monroe Brandon J. Christophe, Baton Rouge Anthony Clay, Baton Rouge E’Lon Common, Harvey Merrick Cosey, Baton Rouge Karen Gloston, Baton Rouge Dezmon Hamilton, Zachary Beatrice Jones, Baton Rouge Brandon Leonard, Roseland Sean Lewis, Baton Rouge Porsche S. Love, Baton Rouge LaTasha Martin, Baton Rouge Jermaine Nichols, Denham Springs Marla S. Northern, Baton Rouge Brandon Orr, Chicago Dominic Plain, Baton Rouge Joney Primas, Baton Rouge Brooks Randall, Houma Enjoli Reynolds, Baton Rouge Rosemary Sims, Zachary Jamal Singleton, Houston Aaron Steele, San Diego Courtney Tobias, Port Allen Mercy Akpowenie Ukpolo, New Orleans Janell Watkins, Baton Rouge Ryan Wicker, Baton Rouge Russell Winfield, Baton Rouge Kelvin Williams, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Marketing Tiana L. Barr, Santa Clara, Calif.

Cedric Bridgewater, Baton Rouge Pearle Burnett, Baton Rouge Dennis Davis, Angie Terry Fryson, Baker Justin Garner, Plaquemine Brandon Hamilton, Baton Rouge DeShawn Jordan, Baton Rouge Brandon Kendall, Chicago Calvin Malveaux Jr., Baton Rouge Leotis Price, Dallas Jamaal Redditt, Baton Rouge Sharhonda Smith, Baton Rouge Sierra C. Thompson, Patterson Chasea L. Virgil, Mesquite, Texas

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Verjanis Peoples, Ph.D., Dean Valery Johnson, Student Marshal

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Alisha Deanne Burrell, Plano, Texas Bianca Nicole Cambre, LaPlace Danielle Renee Dickerson, Baton Rouge Jasmine Sherelle Goodly, Iowa Valery Catrice Johnson, Baton Rouge Sharlene Jones Knox, Baton Rouge Tamieka Lashawn Lavigne, Baton Rouge Danielle Lousie Orbro, Baton Rouge Mekeyba Khala Patin, Baton Rouge Robert Curtis Porter, Baton Kylie Sherrall Simon, Baton Rouge Davion Pierri White, DeSoto, Texas Bachelor of Science in Middle School Education Melvin L. Hollis, Jackson Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education Jesseca Lynette Johnson, St. Gabriel Shauntelle Renea Moses, Baton Rouge Alton Ellis Price Jr., Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Wayne Birch Jr., College Park, Ga. Alphonse Stewart Jr., Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Special Education Nyckolas Tashene Brown, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science Johnny M. Brown Jr., Baker Johnny Castell III, Baton Rouge Brian Dewayne Collins, Maringouin David Charles Crier, New Orleans Chassity Nichole Crittenden, Baker Dawn Celeste Crosby, Baton Rouge Digohn Travis Felton, Convent Mark Frederick, Baton Rouge Jarmaul J. George, Terrytown Kasey Meinyaun Harris, Ferriday Megan M. Hodge, Atlanta, Texas Pharalynne Danielle Howard, Baton Rouge Bryant Lee, Boutte Willie A. McCray, Baker Jimmy Reed Mitchell, Plaquemine Whitney Clara Scott, Geismar Cassidy Charnice Smith, Bastrop Brittany Tanner, Baton Rouge Lekina Terrelle Williams, Baton Rouge Brandon Christopher Wilson, Baton Rouge Kevin Gerard Wilson, Miami Gardens, Fla. Monique Lashawn Wyre, Donaldsonville Bachelor of Music Education Lorenzo T. McCoy, Baton Rouge COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING Habib Mohamadian, Ph.D., Dean Deirdra P. Boley, Student Marshal Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Deirdra Boley, Baton Rouge Lorenzo Levell Coates, St. Francisville Kahli Cohran, Baton Rouge Samantha N. Douglas, Wisner Cerwin Tyrel Fleming, Baton Rouge Aesha C. Jackson, Baton Rouge Timothy Jamal Shelly, New Orleans Derwin LeRone Young, Marrero Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Adam Khalil Ali, Baton Rouge Tremayne Eunique Baker, Baton Rouge Vontrelle Andre Collins, Baton Rouge Chad Edward Dugas, Lafayette Ranie Abdulkareem Omar, Prairieville Louis Anthony Roberts, Lake Charles Abayomi O. Sodipo, Baton Rouge Nicholas Noral Spann, Baton Rouge Jared Christopher Wiley, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Kenner Ricardo Brown, Bogalusa Parris Mitchell Chavis, Baton Rouge Davis Lamar Dixon, Greenville, Miss.

Ahmad Lynn Harris, Maringouin Rodney Joel Harris, Flint, Mich.

Christopher James Malone, Elgin, Ill. Marco Marshall, Baton Rouge Alexandros Basil Polyzopoulos, Baton Rouge Christopher P. Thompson, Prairieville Jeremy D. Perkins, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology

Travis M.B. Gaines, Baton Rouge Christopher Lee Guy, Baton Rouge Mitchell A. Henderson, Memphis, Tenn.

Charles Kennel Johnson Jr., Baton Rouge Christopher Marquet Johnson, Baton Rouge Christopher Alan Knighten, Baton Rouge Jerome Kern Lewis, Shreveport Michael Rene’ Pryer Jr., Maringouin Eric Ta’Wayne Scott, Baker Jermaine Elliot Tillman, Plaquemine SCHOOL OF NURSING Janet Rami, Ph.D., Dean Davida Janaye Roberson, Student Marshal Bachelor of Science in Nursing Porche Reshad Aaron, Pineville Hannah Elise Albarez, Plaquemine Candice Nichelle Allen, Baton Rouge Dejuan Rockee Allen, Baton Rouge Brittany Necole Austin, Baton Rouge Kawana Badie, Baton Rouge Susan Jones Blanchard, Slaughter Crystal Jackson Boudreaux, New Roads Tanya Brown, Baton Rouge Deanna Taylor Campbell, Baton Rouge Keyla Janay Campbell, Baton Rouge Britt Alan Carlisle, Denham Springs Natasha Danielle Caston, Deridder Jennifer Ashley Coleman, Bogalusa Cherlyn Milburn Crockerham, Slidell Sondra Chinnal Cummings, Baton Rouge Darrell Davis, Arnaudville Chantell Lynette Dixon, New Roads Erin R Domingue, Baton Rouge Brittany Marie Dupre, New Orleans Marcus Anthony Dupree, Jeanerette Y’Annika Anja Edwards, Reserve Ariel Marie Frank, Opelousas Brunisha D. Grant, LaPlace Jeremy Joseph Green, Baker Kevin Anthony Hale, New Orleans Tranise C. Hamilton, St. Rose Precious Karennett Hines, Angie Brandice Renea Hoosier, Indianapolis Clarissa Yvette Jackson, Melville Chassidy J’Tel Jefferson, Baton Rouge Ashley Janell Johnson, Plaquemine Charmaine Shante Johnson, LaPlace Kim Louise Johnson, Baton Rouge Lakenda Diane Johnson, Clinton Brandi Lynn Jones, Marrero Freddie Allen Jones, Baton Rouge Ryankeith Reshard Joseph, Opelousas Sheena P. Joseph, Baton Rouge Tiffany Nicole Joseph, Baton Rouge Stephanie Nicole Kabel, Denham Springs Lyneka Nicole Kimble, Pineville Ashante’ Legard, Baton Rouge Nesa Marie Lewis, White Castle Kara F. Major, Port Allen Stephanie Lynn Maronge, Tickfaw Melissa D. Martin, Baton Rouge Ashley N. McArthur, Shreveport Nicole Phillips McGraw, Greenwell Springs Meagan Latrice Mckenzie, Zachary Shamika M. Monday, Baker Nicole Rayne Morris, Baton Rouge Danielle Placide, Breaux Bridge Noel Reimonenq, Baton Rouge Paula D. Richard, Baton Rouge Davida Je’naye Roberson, Baton Rouge Carlise Nicole Sanders, Richmond Heights, Ohio Tamara Renee Savoy, Church Point Latonya V. Sconyers, Baton Rouge Latasha Daniel Shavers, Baton Rouge Jade N. Simpson, Houston Carla Anthonet Smith, Baton Rouge Tonnetta D’Vonne Stewart, Plaquemine Yolanda Evette Taylor, Baton Rouge Pennie Lynn Thompson, Zachary Jasmine Renee’ Thrash, Baton Rouge Alexis Shaniece Turner, St. Joseph Shirleen M Watson, Baton Rouge Tilena N. Weary, Baton Rouge Kisha V. Wells, Baker Elizabeth Carolyn Williams, Daly City, Calif.

Jaime Lynn Williams, New Orleans John Brandon Williams, Gonzales Joshua Ryan Wood, Baton Rouge NELSON MANDELA SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY AND URBAN AFFAIRS Mylon Winn, Ph.D., Interim Dean Sabrina Michelle Whitney, Student Marshal Bachelor of Arts Alex Fatima Barthelemy, Darrow Faith Janiece Butler, New Orleans Shanera Tierra Darzell Hadley, Thibodaux Shymeetria Jones, Baton Rouge Tranesia Deshone Joshep, Lakeland Jawhay Y. King, St. Francisville Tresca Simone Larry, Baton Rouge Krystal C. Caldwell-McKinney, Bastrop Chad R. Morton, Marrero Miranda Renee Nixon, Austell, Ga.

Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 11

www.southerndigest.com

This list was obtained from the Southern University Registrar’s Office and the Graduate School as of April 30, 2010. If you have any questions or discrepancies PLEASE CONTACT YOUR INDIVIDUAL COLLEGE or REGISTRAR’S OFFICE @ 225.771.5050 or THE GRADUATE SCHOOL OFFICE @ 225.771.5390. This is not the final official listing for the Spring 2010 candidates for graduation. The list will be updated daily in the Registrar’s office and Graduate school office. This list of graduates represents the most accurate information available at the time of publication. The appearance of a name on this list and/or participation in the ceremonies is presumptive of graduation, but not conclusive.

Alexis M. Price, Beaumont, Texas Phillip Michael Robinson, Greenwell Springs Stasha M. Rhodes, Baton Rouge Phillip Jermaine Wallace, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Ebony R. Adams, Baton Rouge Sarah Louise Barfield, Coushatta Shree A. Bostick, Baton Rouge Shawana Kenyata Brown, Baker Donna Marie Bruce, Kenner Kimberly Monique Cazenave, Fordoche Mallorie Suzanne Chapman, Baton Rouge Gregory Kari Cola Jr., Baton Rouge Joshua Staford Cola, Baton Rouge Cedric Tyrell Conston, Alexandria Evette Denise Hill, Birmingham, Ala. Leary Hughes, New Orleans Brittney Jackson, New Orleans Kevin Johnson Jr., St. Martinville Reynord Johnson, Slidell Jacole Shuntane Lindsey, Baton Rouge Kathy Denise Lowery, Plaquemine Elecia D’Ann Mason, Port Allen Marcus Anthony Murray, Wilson Rodney G. Perkins, LaPlace Latasha Shynell Ricks, Baton Rouge Jason Ryan Robertson, Baton Rouge Justin Desmond Selders, Baton Rouge Brittnei Collette Shelling, Baton Rouge Raynell Lawrence Theard, New Orleans Roosevelt Ned Lewis Jr., Oakland, Calif.

Amy Nichole Turner, Campti Jalyca D’Layce LaCole Turner, Plaquemine Erica Nicole Wallace, Baton Rouge Jared C. Warren, Katy, Texas RaiShawn Mildred Washington, New Orleans Natalie Nicole Wetherspoon, Arlington, Texas Sabrina Michelle Whitney, Tallulah Jean Williams, Houma Karla Andronette Williams, Clinton COLLEGE OF SCIENCES Robert H. Miller Jr., Ph.D., Dean John Shu Shu, Student Marshal Bachelor of Science Duke DeWayne Alexander, Baton Rouge Sagan Andrea Allen, Eunice Deshundra Sheumel Antoine, Breaux Bridge Brenetta Marie Arvie, Baton Rouge Faith Camille Ashton, Baton Rouge Deforest Leonard Augustus, Baton Rouge Nornicsha Altrice Banks, Baton Rouge Kursten Geleesa Bell, Baton Rouge Andreka Shontae’ Boyd, Baton Rouge Dionne Antionette Wright Brown, Zachary D’Licia Rayshawn Brown, Baton Rouge Camille Rachelle Bryant, Monroe Demeca Lakisha Burton, Baton Rouge Courtney Michelle Butler, Baton Rouge Erykah D. Butler, Oakland, Calif.

Nikita Perien Patterson Butler, Baton Rouge David Edward Carroll, Jr., Slaughter Niesha Shavon Carter, Westwego Alicia Marie Celestine, Breaux Bridge Donyelle Tremayne Chaney, Greensburg Samuel Maurice Chesterfield, Baton Rouge Latisha Monique Danja, Lake Charles Carolin Hutchinson Davis, Baton Rouge Latoya Marie Davis, Breaux Bridge Molika Shawne Ingram Day, Maywood, Ill. Edward George Delone, Baton Rouge Reshonda Shantel Dickerson, Plaquemine Shavondria Dillon, New Orleans Natasha Shont’e Doyle, Houston Darrell Sentell Dudley, Baton Rouge Eric Dunbar, Baton Rouge Georgia Mae Culberson Eichelberger, Baton Rouge Derrick DeVon Eldridge, Alexandria Leandra Venette Ferguson, Nassau, Bahamas Kayla Janine Fleming, Baton Rouge Kyra Harrison Fontenot, Opelousas Andrea Marie Frank, Baton Rouge Samatra Vernice Garrett, Baton Rouge Brandon Rody Gross, Gardena, Calif.

Faith Marie Guy, Greensburg Shalonda Chantel Guy, Baton Rouge Crystal Nicole Haile, Zachary Chloe’ Denese Hamilton, Alexandria Shanika Shanee’ Hamp, Monroe Gaysha Brielle Harris, Shreveport Fiona Alexis Harrison, Baker Michael James Henderson, Houston Tarvis Hicks, Alexandria Alicia Lynette Holliday-Scott, Pride Yentl Deanna Huggar-Cannon, Baton Rouge Brooke Kendall Hughes, Baton Rouge Kimberly Ra’Chelle Jackson, Greensburg Marshall Jackson,Jr., Baton Rouge Courtney Michelle Johnson, Baton Rouge Eboyne Renee Jones, Alexandria Veonka Kennard, Westwego Kellie Tranell King, Baton Rouge Willie Laws, Baton Rouge Oscar Matthew Lee II, Alexandria Brittani Rai Linder, Los Angeles Marlon Reginald Lucas, Zachary DeCarlo Anthony Lyles, Baton Rouge Ashley Hayes Mack, Baton Rouge Enjoli Nicole Marchand, Baton Rouge Gerrick Darnelle Matthews, Baton Rouge Jamisha Natyra Milton, Gretna

Laura Danielle Minor, Baton Rouge Angela Mitchell, Donaldsonville Chandrill Michelle Mobley, Amite LaTisha Sharenthia Morman, Hessmer Kortney A. Myles, Baton Rouge Paulkyerian Chiemeka Ngobili, Baton Rouge Ebonie Shere O’Conner, Slaughter Banaka C. Okwuone, Lawrence, Kan. Crystal Marie Parker, Gonzales William James Parker, New Orleans Juan DeAndre’ Porter, Baton Rouge Shardae Da’Lana Porter, Waco, Texas Wade Joseph Reimonenq, Baton Rouge Brittany Noelle Roberson, Baton Rouge Joseph Keith Robins, Baton Rouge Christen Lakia Scott, Greensburg Clyde Doniel Scott, Baton Rouge Latrice M. Sillers, Nashville, Tenn.

Ashley J. Smith, Baton Rouge Amanda Soto-Ortiz, Zachary Penny Shavel Sterling, Baton Rouge Ashley Nicole Stevenson, Donaldsonville Rachel Alyce Stevenson, Yorktown, Va. Edna L. Tennessee, Marrero Regina Lynette Thomas, Baker Yolande Eileen Archie Thomas, Baton Rouge Saralyn Jeanine Thompson, Baton Rouge Andrea La’Nell Travis, Baton Rouge Sheralyn Yvette Jackson Vessel, Baton Rouge Debra B. Walker, Baton Rouge Nicole Michelle Walker, Plaquemine Naomi Ruth Washington, Baton Rouge Bianca Rocshell Wells, New Orleans Treshauna J’Nay Whitfield, Ethel Asia Elana Williams, Alexandria Brittney Yael Williams, Baton Rouge Kenyall S. Williams, Baton Rouge Michael Lydell Woods, Baton Rouge Miriam Glendell Young, Ethel Renee’ Antoinette Young, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Aaron Michael Chauvin, Hammond Jayme Nicole Chustz, Port Allen LaTisha Michelle Davis, Baton Rouge James E. Halley Jr., Lake Providence Jamaul S. Jackson, Baton Rouge Keyonne LaShonda Lewis, Gretna Krista Joy Mason, Baton Rouge LaShawn Anthony Melancon, Avondale Telethia Deon Mitchell, Shreveport Theodore L. Newell Jr., Alexandria Jered Jerome Sellers, Baton Rouge John Shu, Baton Rouge Jano DeShawn Simon, Baton Rouge Lancia Nicole Walker, St. Gabriel Delishia Foshay Williams, Baton Rouge Kina Marie Williams, Plaquemine Clourth Louis Wilson Jr., New Orleans Bachelor of Science in Social Work LaShonda Faye Chark Buckner, Baton Rouge Loki Cassandra Crosby-Poland, Baton Rouge Shalither Shantell Cushenberry, Geismar Jamie Lee George, Baker Jada Revee’ Jackson, Baton Rouge Kimberly Ann Johnson, Baton Rouge Pamela Elaine Lockridge, Robeline Georgia Marie Madison, Baton Rouge Josie McKnight, Baton Rouge Kimberly Celeste Perkins, Baton Rouge Linda Marie Ricks, Baton Rouge Ash’Ley Ann Taylor, Carenero Tiria Laketra Brown White, Zachary Maleyka Quiletha Harper Williams, Baton Rouge Valerie Deon Woods, Baton Rouge Bachelor of Arts in Speech Pathology and Audiology Nakia Monee’ Bryant, DeQuincy Tamara Kionne Dickens, Wisner Torie Norshae’ Johnson, Pineville Emile R. Montegut, Prairieville Charlene Latrice Kirby, Baton Rouge Tylease Mechelle Robinson, Oakland, Calif.

Justin Olander Barber Worthy, Springfield, Mass.

DOLORES MARGARET RICHARD SPIKES HONORS COLLEGE Beverly Wade, Ph.D., Dean Deirdra P. Boley B.S., Civil Engineering Thesis Title: Design and analysis of Fort Buhlow’s deep foundation system Thesis Advisors: Khalid Alshibli, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Civil Engineering College of Engineering Ching Tsai, Ph.D. Senior Level, Geotechnical Engineer Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Natasha Danielle Caston B.S., Nursing Thesis Title: Factors contributing to African Americans living well with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Louisiana: Implications for diabetes nurse educators Thesis Advisor: Cheryl Taylor, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Nursing School of Nursing

Latisha M. Danja B.S. Psychology Thesis Title: The biological and environmental influences on alcoholism Thesis Advisor: Murelle Harrison, Ph.D. Professor and Chairman, Department of Psychology College of Sciences Ariel Marie Frank B.S., Nursing Thesis Title: Factors influencing obesity and its impact on cardiovascular disease in senior African-American women Thesis Advisor: Betty Fomby-White, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Graduate Nursing Program School of Nursing Chassidy J’Tel Jefferson B.S., Nursing Thesis Title: The quality of life of AfricanAmerican women following breast cancer treatment Thesis Advisor: Antoinella Upshaw, M.S.N. Assistant Professor of Nursing School of Nursing Ryankeith R. Joseph B.S., Nursing Thesis Title: The relationship between knowledge of prostate cancer and the lack of prostate cancer screening among African American Men: A review of literature Thesis Advisor: Leah S. Cullins, M.S.N. Assistant Professor of Nursing School of Nursing Kellie Tranell King B.S., Biology Thesis Title: Familial and cultural indices of substance use among African-American adolescents Thesis Advisor: Reginald Rackley, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology College of Sciences Elyssa Morganette Lassiter B.A., Mass Communication Thesis Title: The benefits of teaching Englishspeaking children a foreign tongue: Spanish as a second language at an early age Thesis Advisor: Irma Cobb, Ph.D. Professor of Foreign Languages College of Sciences Theodore Lee Newell, Jr. B.S., Computer Science Thesis Title: High performance parallel computational methods with special application on minimal energy path searching Thesis Advisor: Shizhong Yang, Ph.D. Computational Scientist, Department of Computer Science College of Sciences Jalyca D. Turner B. S., Criminal Justice Thesis Title: Using religion as a criminal defense Thesis Advisor: Stephone Addison, J.D Instructor of Criminal Justice Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs Lancia N. Walker B.S., Computer Science – Business Option Thesis Title: The computerization and engineering of robotics in education of the disabled Thesis Advisor: Ebrahim S. Khosravi, Ph.D. Professor and Chairman, Department of Computer Science College of Sciences Elizabeth Williams B.S., Nursing Thesis Title: Evaluating differences in stress and coping mechanisms among male and female college nursing students in an HBCU Thesis Advisor: Dwone Marshall, M.S.N. Assistant Professor of Nursing School of Nursing Mercy Akpowenie Ukpolo B.S., Business Management Thesis Title: Limited edition products analysis on consumer behavior and psychology Thesis Advisor: Melissa S. Waters, Ph.D. Professor of Economics and Finance College of Business CANDIDATES FOR COMMISSION SPRING 2010 United States Army Second Lieutenant Darrell Dudley U.S. Army Signal Branch Fort Knox, Ky. Second Lieutenant Eboni Etienne United States Army Reserve Baton Rouge Second Lieutenant Justin Scott U.S. Army Transportation Branch

Fort Benning, Ga. United States Navy Midshipman First Class Brandice R. Hoosier Navy Nurse Corps Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Va. Midshipman First Class Jermaine L. Nichols Guided Missile Destroyer USS Gravely (DDG-107) Norfolk, Va. Honor Graduates Suma Cum Laude Cumulative GPA of 3.86 to 4.0 John Shu Shu Magna Cum Laude Cumulative GPA of 3.70 to 3.85 Melvin La’Trell Hollins Valery Johnson Mercy Akpowenie Ukpolo Cum Laude: Cumulative GPA of 3.4 to 3.69 Alex Fatima Barthelemy Kursten Geleesa Bell Deirdra P. Boley Jayme N. Chutz Danielle R. Dickerson Reynord J. Johnson Ryankeith R Joseph Tranesia Deshone Joseph Kellie Tranell King Elyssa Morganette Lassiter Christopher James Malone Theodore Lee Newell Jason Michael Odell Banaka C. Okwuone Alton Ellis Price, Jr. David Jenaye Roberson Jazen R. Smith Regina Lynette Thomas Alexis Shaniece Turner Jalyca D. Turner Sabrina M. Whitney Brittney Yael Williams Honors: Cumulative GPA of 3.0 to 3.39 Porche R. Aaron Lynwood John Albert Sagan Andrea Allen Brenetta Arvie Kenneth Spencer Barbee Sarah Louise Barfield Jeremy Wade Beckham Wayne Birch Jr. Tanya Brown Lashonda F. Buckner Demeca Burton Faith Janiece Butler Natasha Danielle Caston Aaron Michael Chauvin Ceciley Renee Chretien Areisha Moneek Collins Merrick D. Cosey Sawazi A. Daniel Latisha M. Danja Natasha Shon’te Dolye Y Annika Anjane’ Edwards Edifon Aniedi Ette Kayla Janine Fleming Ariel Marie Frank Edward Galmon Brittany N. Gibson Karen Traniece Gloston Ketha Nequetta Golden Jasmine S. Goodly Tranise C. Hamilton Rodney J. Harris Marshall Jackson Jr. Kevin J. Johnson Jr. Charmaine Shante Johnson Christopher M. Johnson Jessica L. Johnson Tiffany Joseph Lyneka N. Kimble Sharlene J. Knox Ashley Landry Bettina C. Lee Nesa M. Lewis Deandre R. Lloyd Pamela Elaine Lockridge Stephanie Lynn Maronge Chandrill M. Mobley Rondelle M. Moore Chrisdyana Morgan Keva Levarity Nelson Jermaine L. Nichols Danielle L. Orbro Crystal M. Parker Brittany S. Pierre Dominic D. Plain Michael R. Pryer Jr. Nancy J. Reed Enjoli Vonkese Reynolds Phillip Michael Robinson Lajuna J. Scott Whitney C. Scott Justin D. Selders Latasha Daniel Shavers Latrice Moriah Sillers Carla A. Smith

Page 12 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

This list was obtained from the Southern University Registrar’s Office and the Graduate School as of April 30, 2010. If you have any questions or discrepancies PLEASE CONTACT YOUR INDIVIDUAL COLLEGE or REGISTRAR’S OFFICE @ 225.771.5050 or THE GRADUATE SCHOOL OFFICE @ 225.771.5390. This is not the final official listing for the Spring 2010 candidates for graduation. The list will be updated daily in the Registrar’s office and Graduate school office. This list of graduates represents the most accurate information available at the time of publication. The appearance of a name on this list and/or participation in the ceremonies is presumptive of graduation, but not conclusive.

Amanda Soto-Ortiz Penny S. Sterling Jelisha K. Thomas Pennie Lynn Thompson Jasmine Renee’ Thrash Jermaine E. Tillman Lakeydra Toliver Dominique M. Waldrup Lacia N. Walker Phillip Jermaine Wallace Bianca Rocshell Wells Treshauna J. Whitfield Elizabeth Carolyn Williams Jean N. Williams Kelvin T. Williams THE GRADUATE SCHOOL Joseph A, Meyinsse, Ph.D., Interim Dean MASTER OF ARTS Counselor Education June E. Hood, Zachary Cecil L. Houston, Baton Rouge Mass Communication Chartese W. Benton, Baton Rouge Kayla K. Bouligny, Baton Rouge Sarah M. Dugas, Baton Rouge Kanithia Sharee Hills, Miami Patrice T. Jones, New Orleans Michael B. Manuel, Inkster, Mich Andre D. Richard Jr., Baton Rouge Daja Rekiva Thompson, Baton Rouge Mental Health Counseling Angela Johnson Haynes, Baton Rouge Social Sciences Phelesha R. Hamilton, Dallas Thesis: Yes we can: The historical election of Barak Obama Thesis Advisor: Raymond J. Lockett, Ed.D.

John J. McCree, Baton Rouge Thesis: White flight of black triumph: The desegregation and merging of four Lake Charles’ public high schools in 1983 and 1985 Thesis Advisor: Raymond J. Lockett, Ed.D.

Adrienne D. Pinkney, Tallulah Thesis: The life and times of Zelma Wyche Thesis Advisor: Raymond J. Lockett, Ed.D. Constance Frederina Savoy, Baton Rouge Thesis: Desegregation in Rapides Parish public schools from 1969 to 2001 Thesis Advisor: Wanda Jackson, Ph.D. Heather Y. Williams, Baton Rouge Thesis: An assessment of Southern University’s Mexico study abroad program Thesis Advisor: Christopher Hunte, Ph.D. Robyn Williams, Baton Rouge Thesis: Kinship care has a greater positive effect on children’s emotional well being in contrast to foster care placement Thesis Advisor: Christopher Hunte, Ph.D. MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Roger Ray Arvie Jr., Baton Rouge Lauren N. Clivens, Baton Rouge Jarvis W. Diggs, Baton Rouge Tomeka L. Jones, Baton Rouge Jeffrey K. Judson, Greensburg Krystal M. Luckett, Baton Rouge LaToya Gilmore Mason, Baker Ebele Chioma Okocha, Aurora, Colo.

Tahlya R. Smiles, New Orleans Samantha A. Thompson, Baton Rouge

get online @

MASTER OF EDUCATION Educational Leadership Dana M. Primus, Pride Kellye D. Robvais, Baton Rouge Donald J. Sanders III, Centerville Elementary Education Kendra E. Arrington, Baton Rouge Cathy W. Griffin, Baton Rouge Prudence Quintina Kaufman, Port Allen Xavier R. Rawls-Stromile, Baton Rouge Thesis: A study of factors contributing to stress among elementary school teachers versus middle school teachers Thesis Advisor: Atley D. Walker, Ph.D. MASTER OF ENGINEERING Ebubekir Beyazoglu, Baton Rouge Thesis: Development of a multiscale thermal model for in service performance of thermal barrier coatings Thesis Advisor: Patrick E. Mensah, Ph.D. MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Delanderia M. Anderson, Rosedale Erika K. Augustus, Baton Rouge Stephanie L. Barthelemy, Baton Rouge Sherri C. Benn, Baton Rouge Maurice L. Binns, Baton Rouge Jana S. Broussard, New Iberia T’Meshia W. Burns, Alexandria Rochelle L. Darville, Gonzales Ashley E. Dorsey, Belle Rose Destiny D. Ellis, Baton Rouge Melissa D. Graves, Baton Rouge April Renalda Green, LaPlace Fouad M. Harb, Baton Rouge Lauren B. Hayes, Zachary Tobrina R. Jackson, Baton Rouge Sunny T. Lee, Baton Rouge Steffan W. Rutledge, Baton Rouge Ashley N. Scott, Baton Rouge Courtney D. Skidmore, Port Allen Crystal D. Vallier, Lafayette Michelle M. Wales, Baton Rouge MASTER OF SCIENCE Biology Felicia D. Emery, Zachary Thesis: Quantification of leukocytes in inflamed posterior tibial nerves of nine-banded armadillos infected with mycobacterium leprae Thesis Advisor: Oswald D’Auvergne, Ph.D. Isaac Gilliard III, Baton Rouge LaShonna N. Jackson, Buena Park, Calif.

Henry A. Palfrey, Baton Rouge Thesis: Relationship between hoxa1 and the BMP signaling pathway on the neuronal differentiation on encapsulated and non-encapsulated mES cells Thesis Advisor: Eduardo Martinez-Ceballos, Ph.D. Erin R. Wheeler, Amite Computer Science Sai Ganesh Annamraju, Baton Rouge Divya Avirneni, Baton Rouge Indira Bandi, Baton Rouge Shirisha Dendi, Bloomington, Ill. Murali Krishna Gangineni, Baton Rouge Anthony D. Jones, Baton Rouge Shivaji Kuyya, Baton Rouge Alana D. Ledet, Allen, Texas Vyaisha L. Moss, Baton Rouge Thesis: The dependency of early childhood computer cognition based upon human-computer interaction

www.southerndigest.com

Thesis Advisor: Nigel Gwee, Ph.D. Sagar Kailash Seth, Baton Rouge Varun Kumar Somuri, Baton Rouge Teddrell L. Square, Zachary Criminal Justice Joi No’El Bates, Baker Gregory G. Burnstine, Alexandria Britnee R. Daranda, Mansura Jamecysia J. Galmon, Greensprings Annette V. Johnson, Baton Rouge Juanita R. Johnson, Baton Rouge Michelle M. Small, Gonzales Mathematics Valerie L. Epps, New Orleans Thesis: Points, numbers, vectors and vector analysis Thesis Advisor: Walfredo Javier, Ph.D. Physics Sundara L. Ghatty, Andhrapradesh, India Thesis: Polybenzimazole (PBI) based membranes for platinum-colbalt.carbon alloy catalysts for high temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs) Thesis Advisor: Rambabu Bobba, Ph.D. Rehabilitation Counseling Mickey L. Abston, Natchez, Miss.

Carlotta B. Drew, Raleigh, N.C. Crystalyn Tamiya Lange, Abita Springs Tiffani S. Lowe, Laurel, Miss.

Schakos D. Ozmax, Baker Sharon E. Miller, Lexington, S.C. Dianna Rashidah Muhammad, Baton Rouge Janet F. Riese, Manchester, N.H. Elnora N. Richardson, Plaquemine Eddie Sandifer, Lumberton, Miss.

Monica Bliss Sebble, New Orleans Sabrina M. Singleton, Marion, Miss.

Delbert W. Walters, Ada, Okla.

Speech-Language Pathology Kasy Roche’ Adams, Wisner Lesley L. Adams, Addis Shagunda D. Brown, Baton Rouge Natasha Christy, Baton Rouge Sarah M. Johnson, Chicago Crystal D. Knight, Baton Rouge Catrese Shunte Rasco, Shreveport Bobbi Copeland Smith, Albany Kobi A. Penister, Stone Mountain, Ga. Brandi L. Wailes, Baton Rouge Reji J. Walker, Baton Rouge Therapeutic Recreation Gail M. Andrews, Baton Rouge Minita D. King-Miller, Baton Rouge Justin W. Scott, Baton Rouge Urban Forestry Calvin R. Adams, Baton Rouge Cynthia D. Brown, Baton Rouge Elias M. Mulembo, Baton Rouge Thesis: The role of internet map server in urban/ rural interface data warehouse Thesis Advisor: Fulbert Namwamba, Ph.D.

Kelshunte Wanzel Barber, Baton Rouge James B. Wilson, Pineville MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING Karen Ambeau-Bess, St. Gabriel Letarsha R. Campbell, Greensburg Naoshia Shontell Carroll, Baton Rouge Michelle Conley Carter, Baton Rouge Mecca Hunter Daigre, Baton Rouge Grace Ekanem Dinvaut, Baton Rouge Trakissia Lynette Doucet, Baton Rouge Amanda Boudreau Dupre, Baton Rouge LaDonna Nicole Evans, Baton Rouge

Ahlecia N. Haney-Pitre, Gloster, Miss.

Robreka King Henderson, Zachary Cassandra Lynn Jingles, Geismar Porsche L. Johnson, Baton Rouge Dora R. Tate Keller, Baton Rouge Lakeisha M. Knighten, Port Allen Nikki N. Weeks Lewis, Gonzales Stacey Patterson Ligon, Baton Rouge Kiyan L. McCormick, New Orleans Thesis: Simulated learning experiences as a means of promoting critical thinking and communication skills in baccalaureate nursing students Thesis Advisor: Sharon W. Hutchinson, Ph.D. Benita N. Nwokolo, Baton Rouge Veronica Robvais Posey, Baton Rouge Shawntell Sharee Richard, Baton Rouge Tiffany Farmer Smith, Baton Rouge Carmen L. Solomon-Brown, Baton Rouge Arianna Brooke Thierry, Opelousas Tamara M. Welsh, Baton Rouge DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY Nursing Mary B. Green, New Orleans Dissertation: Evacuation status, age, income, and resilience as predictors of stress among hurricane Katrina survivors Major Professor: Janet S. Rami, Ph.D. Public Policy Orscini Laborne’ Beard, Baton Rouge Dissertation: Deconstruction of capital punishment; Perspective on the deterrent effect and cost effectiveness Major Professor: James S. Larson, Ph.D. Leah Rachelle Hunter-Raby, Baton Rouge Dissertation: Social capital a determinant of political decisions in health policy: a case for a single player universal healthcare system in Louisiana Major Professor: James S. Larson, Ph.D. Mehmet A. Ulupinar, Baton Rouge Dissertation: Effects of 1996 welfare reform in Louisiana: Changing in family structure, poverty, and social programs Major Professor: Kingsley Esedo, Ph.D. Science and Mathematics Education Richard Cosby II, New Orleans Dissertation: A qualitative study: An investigation of the views of college students towards the theory of biological evolution Major Professor: Joseph A. Meyinsse, Ph.D. Zita Muhammad, Baton Rouge Dissertation: The effects of cooperative learning on the mathematics achievement and attitudes of non-science majors Major Professor: Moustapha Diack, Ph.D. Special Education Kanisha A. Jimison Dissertation: The impact of teachers self efficacy on the academic achievement of students with emotional disturbance Major Professor: Sheri I. Anderson, Ph.D. Chontel Je-Anne Parker, Baton Rouge Dissertation: Secondary special education teachers’ perception of job satisfaction Major Professor: Vera I. Daniels Urban Forestry Thomas Nyatta Legiandenyi, Baton Rouge Dissertation: Impact of different biobased mulches on the urban soil CO2 flux in South Louisiana Major Professor: Kamran K. Abdollahi, Ph.D.

www.southerndigest.com

business & technology Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 13

Stocks climb on earnings, drop in jobless claims By stephen bernard ap business writer

NEW YORK — Stocks surged higher after another series of upbeat earnings reports and a reading on unemployment provided more evidence of an improving economy.

The Dow Jones industrials rose 122 points Thursday after the Labor Department said initial claims for unemployment benefits fell last week. And companies including Motorola, Time Warner Cable and Starwood Hotels & Resorts reported earnings that topped analysts’ forecasts.

It was the market’s second straight winning day after a plunge Tuesday that took the Dow down 213. Greece’s debt problems, one of the triggers for that slide, appeared less dire Wednesday and Thursday, and that allowed investors to focus on the growing signs of healing in the U.S. The Labor Department said first-time claims dipped to 448,000, slightly above analysts’ forecast of 445,000, according to Thomson Reuters. It was the second weekly drop and lifted hopes that layoffs are slowing.

Dealmaking and strong corporate earnings reports added to the growing optimism.

Hewlett-Packard Co. said late Wednesday it is buying smart phone maker Palm Inc.

photo by ted s. warren/AP PHOTO

Job-seeker Julian Richards fills out a job application, Tuesday during a job fair in Tacoma, Wash. Richards said he was seeking work to match his background and experience in sales and marketing.

in an all-cash deal worth $1.4 billion. Acquisitions are a sign that the economy is recovering and companies are comfortable spending cash to build their businesses.

“Business are in a very strong position financially,” said Doug Lockwood, chief investment officer at Cornerstone Wealth Management in Auburn, Ind. Companies have built up big

cash reserves that can not only go toward deals, but also eventually to hire back workers, Lockwood said.

Companies including Motorola, Time Warner Cable and Starwood Hotels & Resorts reported earnings that topped analysts’ expectations, as have many other companies that announced first-quarter results in recent weeks.

“It just seems like the market is moving and moving and nothing is going to get in its way,” said Steve Stahler, president of the Stahler Group Inc. in Baton Rouge.

On Friday, the government will give its first assessment of overall economic activity during the first quarter when it issues the gross domestic product.

Analysts surveyed by Thomson

Reuters forecast that the economy grew at an annual rate of 3.4 percent, down from 5.6 percent in the fourth quarter.

However, many economists have warned for months that the hectic pace at the end of 2009 would not be sustained, so a lower rate of growth won’t be seen as a negative — as long as it meets or beats expectations.

The Dow rose 122.05, or 1.1 percent, to 11,167.32, bringing its two-day advance to 175.33.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 index rose 15.42, or 1.3 percent, to 1,206.78, while the Nasdaq composite index rose 40.19, or 1.6 percent, to 2,511.92.

European stock markets rose Thursday after two days of steep declines. On Wednesday Spain became the third European country this week to see its debt rating slashed by Standard & Poor’s, following Greece and Portugal.

There are concerns that debt problems will spread across the continent and slow a global economic recovery. The most pressing problems are in Greece, which is still trying to tap a bailout package worth nearly $60 billion. European Union officials said again Thursday that Greece would have access to the money that will help it avoid defaulting on debt payments next month. The downgrades of Greek and Portuguese debt on Tuesday sent indexes worldwide tumbling.

viewpoints Page 14 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com

Till Prenup Do Us Part To the bride and groom, marriage is a loving union between two people who want to spend the rest of their lives together. However, in the eyes of the law, marriage is a contract between two people who have financial rights and responsibilities … not about love.

There lies in the traditional vows of “till death do us part” a sense of superficial invincibility, an “it can’t happen to us” mentality that blinds the bride and groom to the reality that divorce, not death, is the more likely end to the romantic fairy tale.

A prenuptial agreement isn’t a wellplanned exit strategy or indication of a lack of faith in the relationship. It is simply protection against an unlikely and unforeseen what if circumstance.

The purpose of most premarital agreements is to control the financial cost of marital dissolution by divorce, annulment, or the death of one spouse.

It is possible in some jurisdictions to use a premarital agreement to regulate any aspect of marriage, including personal rights and obligations.

Prenuptial agreements serve purposes such as to preserve personal wealth, to value non-monetary spousal contributions, and to reduce legal expenses in the event of dissolution of the marriage. But there are arguments not to sign a prenuptial agreement because of the emotional factors and trust issues. However, being able to discuss with your partner both of your future financial plans and

expectations for the relationship will lead to a more solid foundation because it places all your cards on the table than simply expecting love to take care of everything.

No couple enters marriage expecting a divorce however the statistics foretell a darker future. Regardless of your confidence in the relationship, the U.S. national divorce statistics give a more realistic, sobering view of marriage and its potential disadvantages. Each year, over two million couples are married in the United States but nearly half of these marriages will end in divorce. However, only five to 10 percent of married couples typically sign pre-marriage contracts.

And contrary to popular belief, women have a higher percentage of initiating a prenuptial agreement than men.

Couples entering into a marriage

WWW.southerndigest.com WWW.southerndigest.com WWW.southerndigest.com WWW.southerndigest.com WWW.southerndigest.com WWW.southerndigest.com WWW.southerndigest.com

become united in many dimensions, including social and financial. There is no need for a prenuptial agreement to be biased in either partner’s favor. For example, a career woman may insist that her prenuptial agreement includes provisions to compensate her for if she is going to stay home and raise children.

A crafted prenuptial agreement can help avoid many of the problems associated with divorce even for couples who enter the relationship with little to no tangible assets.

A prenuptial agreement can also protect one or both spouses and compensate for sacrifices made during the marriage. Such agreements have existed for thousands of years in some form or another, particularly in European and Far Eastern cultures, where royal families have always made provisions for protecting their wealth.

The 1970s witnessed a sea change in the law of premarital agreements.

The traditional hostility to premarital agreements began to crack under the weight of legal changes like greater equality for women and the sharp rise in divorce and remarriage rates.

Prenuptial agreements have been relegated to the realm of second marriages, trust fund beneficiaries, and celebrities. However, given the elevated legal fees and stress involved in a divorce, the rate with which relationships end nowadays, as well as peoples increasing financial sophistication and independence, a

prenuptial agreement can benefit just about everyone. You don’t have to be a Rockefeller or Trump to need a premarital agreement.

A prenuptial agreement can be especially vital to young adults starting out in their respective careers. For example, in New York a spouse may be entitled to a significant percentage of the value of a professional license earned during the marriage or a master degree earned during the marriage. Essentially, if your spouse supported you during your days in law school, medical school or business school, and divorce results between the two, without a prenuptial agreement you may be working your entire life for the other spouse.

What some don’t consider is that prenuptial agreements can be useful estate planning tools. Such an agreement can be especially useful if you have children from a previous marriage or have family heirlooms that you want to keep in the family.

Prenuptial agreements are a bargain compared to the cost of an average wedding or an average divorce. So consider a prenuptial agreement like buying insurance: it’s a small one-time cost for something you never hope to use, but if you do, you will be glad you have it because marriage is not just an emotional and physical union – it’s also a financial union.

——— Shae McDowell is editor in chief of The Public Defender at Southern University Law Center.

VIEWPOINTS

Friday, April 30, 2010 - Page 15

www.southerndigest.com

Miss Southern bids farewell All praises be to God. I am thankful of his glorious blessings to serve as your Miss Southern University 20092010. This was a dream that eventually became a reality. As my crown is passed on to the next young lady, I thank God for his tremendous grace and mercy that has allowed me to endure the tasks that were put before me.

I thank my family for their love and support that has surrounded me during my worst and my very best. Thanks to a dedicated administration, faculty and staff, a devoted student body, loyal friends, and loving family for knowing that all of you were beside me has helped me to comfort each appointment with dignity and pride.

I would be remissed if I did not acknowledge my advisor, Ms. Ave’ Bonham. Ms. Bonham thank you for being my mother away from home, a mentor, and a friend.

As I look back over this past year, serving as your Miss Southern

SABRINA WHITNEY University was an experience that was well worth savoring and believe me I have savored much. The journey seemed so short, yet as I have come to the end of my road, I realize that another young lady will have the opportunity to experience life as I have.

Therefore, to Kenya Warren, Miss Southern University, 2010-2011, I wish you well; cherish the moment because IT’S ONCE IN A LIFETIME. I would like to leave a biblical scripture with you, which comes from Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine

own understanding and in all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.”

Remember always hold your head up high, not only when you see your shining crown, but you will see your pride as well.

Last but most definitely not least, I would like to especially thank the student body for having faith, courage and trust in me to fulfill the duties of Miss Southern University.

Again, thanks to the student body for cheering me along the way. All of you have played an important role in my life. Some of my very best times and very worst times have been here with the people whom I love and enjoy being around.

In the words of Whitney Houston “I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU!”

SPEAK OUT

What is your opinion on the Miss Southern/ SGA elections?

BY breanna paul

Digest opinions editor

bernard wheeler bastrop sophomore business management

wheeler

“Only time will tell on the results that happened.

Greatness or failure.”

With Great Honor, I Shall Remain

courtney williams

Sabrina Michelle Whitney Miss Southern University 2009-2010

new orleans sophomore nursing

Graduating from SU bittersweet halftime shows.

For most people, graduating from college is Although my season here at this great institution supposed to be one of the happiest moments of your has come to an end, I’m forever grateful for people like life.

Mrs. Marie brown, Ms. Kenya Smith, Mr. Raymond For me, however, it’s a bittersweet moment.

Clark, Dr. Barbara Carpenter, Dr. Joyce O’Rourke and I came to Southern University only looking to the Kapivating Kappa Kappa Chapter of Sigma Alpha receive a college education. I received that education, Iota International Music Fraternity for Women. along with gaining many friends and experiences to KENYET TA It is my dream that Southern University continues last a lifetime. to move in the right direction, moving forward and I didn’t meet my future husband, but I did meet COLLINS not looking back. my future bridesmaids.

Until we meet again SU. Ironically, I’ll miss the late-night cram sessions Farewell. for communications law, struggling with Financial Aid every semester, football games and, of course, the Human Jukebox

“I believe that Kenya Warren is well-deserving of williams the position. I don’t believe that fraud was committed.”

jasmine henderson lake charles sophomore not available

henderson

“I feel great that Kenya Warren won Miss Southern.”

jonathan mitchell baton rouge senior mass communication

mitchell

“I don’t care. It doesn’t concern me.”

nitasha long baton rouge JUNIOR nursing

“I didn’t vote, so I have no idea.” long 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 editorial and opinion pages. 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-mail to digest@subr.edu.

Editorial policy

Staff editorials represent the opinions of the author and the majority opinion of the Southern DIGEST Student Editorial Board, which is comprised of the student staff of editors and columnists. The Southern DIGEST provides an open forum to educate, inform and enlighten the students, faculty and staff at Southern University, Baton Rouge, La.

Page 16 - Friday, April 30, 2010

www.southerndigest.com