March 9, 2021 . Volume 76 . Issue 5
Hot takes with Blake: What’s ahead for SU Student Government Debrandin Brown The Southern Digest
On Southern University’s campus, the Student Government Association has long since shouldered the burden of not only serving as student leadership on campus, but of strengthening the university and its students in the face of an ever-changing society. If you were to ask whether or not COVID has rained on this year’s SGA’s plans, the answer that senior senator Blake Reddick would give is a resounding “negatory”. This spring semester has seen an uptake in in-person gatherings as they have adapted better to COVID-19 safety regulations. When asked how he would rate the success of this year’s campus activity plans, Reddick noted how there have been both good and bad that the SGA has had to take in stride. “I would say that despite COVID, we were able to accomplish the things REDDICK
Sew Let’s Talk: AKAs Create for a Good Cause Kynnedi S. Jackson The Southern Digest
Women’s History Month Feature: SU Shines the Light on Mrs. Tracy Jerrell-Taylor Ryann Jordan/ The Southern Digest
(DIGEST ART)
that we set out to. That being said, the semester isn’t over with yet, so we have more in store,” said Reddick on how he’s viewed the success of the SGA in reaching their semester milestones. The success of week-long events such as Freshmore Week and Queen’s Week were some of the examples noted by Reddick as some of the more successful undertakings. As midterms are upon the
student body at Southern and the first half of the semester ends, SGA elections have become a topic of major discussion in current SGA circles, with Blake noting the seriousness that this time of the year should be afforded. The biggest compliment from Blake however came about his admiration for the new generation of SGA hopefuls, whom Reddick
has said to stand for an even brighter future for Southern University. “I’m excited. These new student leaders are going to bring good things to Southern University. They’re young, they’re eager, and they’re talented. I’m excited to see the future of the Student See SGA page 3
An updated looking into the SU Daycare: COVID Edition Jamien Williams The Southern Digest
COVID-19 had a significant impact on a person’s everyday life, On Wednesday, March 4, 2021, job, responsibilities, and priorities. the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority COVID has caused many Incorporated Beta Psi Chapter of businesses to close either until Southern University hosted their the pandemic is more controlled third part of the “Sew Let’s Talk” or it has forced them to release series via Zoom that evening. staff members. Some parents may On Zoom, the ladies created see that as a blessing because it pillowcase dresses that will be allows them to spend more time donated to girls in Haiti. This with their children. However, for event is annual and, according other parents who may not have to the chapter president, Nicole a spouse to aid them in watching Moore, this is one of her favorites. their children, this pandemic The “Sew Let’s Talk” event caused them to look for daycares is not unique to just Southern like the Southern University University’s campus. The AKA Daycare Center. sorority has a national goal to The Southern University collect 29,108 pillowcase dresses Daycare Center has remained to help the little girls in Africa. open and stayed faithful to allow The Beta Psi Chapter plans to parents who work for the school have 60 dresses donated to Real and student parents to watch their Hope for Haiti, a nonprofit children and keep them safe. The organization based in Indiana. director of the daycare center, Dr. This organization focuses on a Keisha Dandridge-Caesar, has particularly impoverished part been very careful in keeping the of Haiti, also known as Cazale. children and other staff members safe. Due to the pandemic, See AKA page 3 there have been additions to the daycare’s policies, one being the
Children interacting at the SU children Daycare Center during playtime. Jamien Williams/DIGEST
daycare center having contactless pickups and drop-offs. These contactless pickups and drop-offs allow parents to pick up or dropoff their children without having to come inside or get out of the car. It is also required that before the child can enter the building that both the parent’s and child’s temperature are checked. If both temperatures are within COVID guidelines the child may enter the facility. Along with staying within
COVID guidelines, the daycare staff makes sure that everything remains sanitized. Dr. DandridgeCaesar says that “We are washing more than ever before, and now the children only come together in the morning and after that. They are separated by age group, and they eat with their age group in their classrooms most days and play with their age group with their assigned teacher.” Another See DAYCARE page 3
In honor of Women’s month, it is time to reflect and celebrate women, their accomplishments and struggles that have shaped them into the upstanding women they have become. This month’s feature shines light on Mrs. Tracy JerrellT a y l o r and her JERRELL-TAYLOR experiences that have molded her into the woman she is today. Mrs. Taylor’s philanthropic attitude shaped her outlook on life. Coming from humble beginnings, Mrs. Taylor credits her willingness to help others to her mother, the late Mamie Johnson. She describes her mother as “a lady of character and always positive and giving to everyone.” Her mother taught her that family always comes first and Mrs. Taylor has carried that same philosophy having a family of her own. Graduating in 1992 with a degree in marketing, Mrs. Taylor went to work at the Department of Revenue of Louisiana and later moved to Texas working with various oil and gas companies: ExxonMobil, Chevron, Marathon Oil, and Lynn Oil. After being laid off, she started to question her path and where she stood in her life. In 1997 after the loss of her cousin, Mrs. Taylor helped plan the funeral where she eventually found her niche and aspired to become a funeral director. She found this to be her way of helping others and realized this is what she wanted to do. After a while she was unsure if that was what she wanted until her mother’s death in 2003. After losing her mother, she helped prepare the body and continued to pray about her path and for God to lead her in the right direction. Years later Mrs. Taylor finds herself back at her alma mater, The Southern University, helping students and faculty while pursuing her doctoral degree. In spite of layoffs and disappointments she See TAYLOR page 3
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY AND A&M COLLEGE, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA
www.southerndigest.com
CAMPUS BRIEFS FREE COVID TESTING While supplies last, Southern University is offering free COVID-19 testing in the F.G. Clark Activity Center from 9 AM- 4 PM Monday through Friday. Students can also receive a free COVID-19 test at the intramural sports gymnasium from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Tuesdays and Fridays. RETOOL YOUR SCHOOL Did you vote for SUBR (Cluster 1) and SUSLA (Cluster 2) today? Voting is unlimited. We have a chance to win $100K across the SU System! Vote now at, https:// retoolyourschool.com/ vote/. #Southernu_Rys21 #Sus_Rys21#WeAreSouthern #FinishStronger NURSING SCHOOL The deadline to apply to the School of Nursing
Page 2 | Tuesday, March 9, 2021
Undergraduate Program is March 15, 2021. SGA TESTING The Student Government Association test will be March 10 at 5:30 PM in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom. Questions in regards to the test can be emailed to sgaelection@subr. edu CENTER FOR STUDENT SUCCESS Spring 2021 Online Tutoring is here! For more information, contact Lindsey Butler at lindsey_butler@subr.edu or by calling 225-771-4312 WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS SEMINAR Hosted by Honors Students Association presents a Women’s Mental Health Awareness Event with special guests from University Counseling Center and Dean of Honors College! via
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Microsoft Teams at 5:30 6:30 PM. Free and open to all students and faculty. SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SPORTS Southern U Baseball @ Tulane March 9 at 6pm Southern U Baseball @ Prairie View March 12-14 (time TBA) SWAC Tournament : Southern U @ Grambling State March 11 at 8:30PM Southern U Softball @ Nicholls at 5PM Southern U Football: BYE WEEK Women’s Soccer vs Alabama State March 12 SU VOTES! 2021 Louisiana Congressional Special Election Early Voting (March 6-13) Election Day (March 20) visit geauxvote.com for more information
Follow us on Instagram:
@southernu_osm
Follow us on Twitter:
@southernuosm
SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SUITE 1064 T.H. HARRIS HALL POST OFFICE BOX 10180 BATON ROUGE, LA 70813 PHONE: 225.771.2231 FAX: 225.771.5840
ONLINE @ www.southerndigest.com
STUDENT MEDIA OFFICE Director........................................................Jermaine Proshee Publications Mgr. ...........................................Devin Hadrick Business/Advertising Mgr. ................ Camelia Jackson CONTACTS (area code 225) Student Media Newsroom........................................ 771.2231 Advertising Office..................................................... 771.5833 Director’s Office ....................................................... 771.5812 Editorial STAFF Editor-in-Chief...........................................Debrandin Brown Managing Editor ................................................. Jayln Garner Multimedia Editor..............................................Jairus Moore
Public Relations Editor....................................... Aliya Creecy News Editor ................................................. Diamond Butler Features Editor .............................................. Keenon Glover Photo Editor.............................................. Adriana Trosclair Sports Editor....................................................Evan Funchess Web Editor......................................................... Dante Davis Writer ................................................................Alexis Easton Writer ...........................................................Kynnedi Jackson Writer ...........................................................Teyanah Owems Writer ............................................................ Jalexis Edwards Writer ...................................................... Garland Johnon, Jr. Writer ............................................................ Destiny Morris Writer ..........................................................Whitney Thomas Writer .................................................................Jaylnn Jacobs Photographer ...................................................... Keith Lewis Photographer ............................................... Isaac Armstrong Photographer ...................................................... Keith Lewis Photographer ....................................................Jhalen Brown Photographer .............................................. Tiffany Williams
SUBMISSIONS POLICY The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed on its editorials, commentaries, ans speakouts. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and
year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be e-mailed to digest@subr.edu. PUBLICATION ASSOCIATIONS The Southern DIGEST is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Associated Collegiate Press (ACP), College Media Advisers Association (CMA), Full member of the Associated Press (AP) and the Louisiana Press Association (LPA). The Office of Student Media is a department in the Division of Student Affairs.
www.southerndigest.com The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 | Page 3
The History Of Louisiana African American Francophone T.t. Allain Brian M. Bolden The Southern Digest
Southern originally began in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1880, after a group of black politicians, P.B.S. Pinchback, Theophile T. Allain, and Henry Demas petitioned the State Constitutional Convention in 1879, in order to establish an institution of higher learning for “colored people.” Historically, Louisiana’s “African American Francophone” origins have consisted of several primary groups: the Acadians (better known today as the Cajuns), the Creoles, and the Colonial French Francophone’s. Seeing and observing the Acadians were Frenchmen who moved to and settled in the eastern most provinces of Canada, mainly in the Nova Scotia area during the early 17th century. In 1682, the French claimed what came to be known as the Louisiana Territory or “La Louisiane,” an immense parcel of land named in honor of King Louis XIV. In 1699, French explored the area where Baton Rouge is now located by none other than Pierre Le Moyne D’Iberville’s. In 1718, the French are alleged to have constructed a fort near the area to protect travelers from New Orleans to northern outposts. The Baton Rouge area then belonged to France. The area was transferred to England by the treaty of Paris in 1763. Following this, the settlement was renamed New Richmond. Although the Acadians thrived in this area, they were expelled from their land by the British Government beginning in 1755. Theophile T. Allain, raised as a slave on the Australian Plantation in West Baton Rouge. While Some Acadians returned to France while others settled along the United States’ east coast and in Louisiana. Bringing Creole communities in Louisiana
DIGEST ART
historically came from the State’s slave population. Although slavery was still alive and well, some areas were diminishing the strict recognizance where most colored children during these times were kept with pending slave papers, his father, Sosthene Allain, was the owner of both the plantation and of him and his mother. Louisiana’s slaves mainly come from the Senegambian region of Africa, and Louisiana Creole arose from their communication with their French-speaking masters. Thus, where the term “African American Francophone” was born and mostly affluent of the speakers exuded sentiments that historically, would soon be what transformed by Africans
SGA from page 1
but mainly Colonial French Francophone’s as a variety of French that arrived with French colonists and or also American Francophone’s civilizations throughout the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Essayist Onésime Reclus around 1880 discover the origin behind the general Francophone term. From Anglophones English-speakers, Latinophone, Latin-speakers to Hispanophones
and Spanish colonial expansion into North America, it’s easy to forget New France, a vast territory where the French Francophone’s had a significant stake in the New World. Things started to get better for the African American Francophone, Allain, to the point when he became the owner of his father’s plantation. The Louisiana city of Baton Rouge still retains much of its French-infused Francophone heritage, and many
Spanish-speakers to Lusophones or Portuguese-speaking and we all cannot forget Swedophone for Swedish-Speakers! Colonial French Francophone’s language has been spoken by a wide variety of groups in Louisiana, from free people of color, to plantation owners, to Native American tribes. As a point to reference, Mr. Allain even though he was a slave, his father in fact was a very admonishing father towards him and gave him special accents like eating at the table with him, traveling to Europe with him, and even ensuring him an education when he was around the age of nine years old. Given the history of English
of its residents hold on to aspects of French and European culture that date back to colonial times, including language, culture and cuisine. In 1872, Allain then got into politics and worked alongside P.B.S Pinchback. He served as a state legislator in the 14th district and helped contribute to the opening of Southern University. Baton Rouge’s flourishing Francophone population is bar none the most recognized civilization of Louisiana’s culture! Recognizing African American & Black History is vital to our student body and organizational heritage.
AKA from page 1 It has culminated in a medical the African climate. Finally, for new service projects to serve clinic and rescue center for life- they are simple enough for even their community. This semester threatening conditions, such as a novice to sew. Although the they have collected and donated kwashiorkor, severe malnutrition, focus of the event is to sew the 60 backpacks filled with several and third-degree burns. The dresses for the little girls in Haiti, non-perishable food items and dresses collected will be given to the other point to this event is to toiletries to children in foster those suffering from the diseases. have open discussions about the homes. The event will be held The sorority expanded on why lives of college women. President again during AKA week, but this pillowcases are the go-to items Moore said, “This year looked a time the intensity will be a bit for this event. They are readily little different than normal due higher as they plan to collect 100 available and come in all colors to it being virtual, but we always bags. Be on the lookout for more and patterns. They have a hem try to find a way to continue to events from the Beta Psi Chapter and the side seams in them. The be of service to all mankind even of AKA’s. brightly colored patterns are during a pandemic.” The AKA’s are always looking perfect for the Sundresses with
NEWS
TAYLOR from page 1 still managed to come out on top and not let her setbacks define or shape her in any way. Mrs. Taylor has gone on to become the first female Vice President of the Southern University Alumni Federation and eventually will pursue her entrepreneurial dreams of owning her own funeral home and continuing to serve others just as her mother, Mamie Johnson who continues to be her inspiration.
Government Association,” said Reddick. As the time comes to elect new class officers, including a new SGA President and Miss Southern University, Reddick stressed that the student body informs themselves on their options so that they pick the candidate who best reflects their best interests. “Ask candidates questions. It’s the student’s responsibility to hold us accountable and communicate with us on things that impact them,” said Reddick. Having run for the office of SGA President in the past and serving on the SGA throughout his tenure at Southern, Reddick has a unique insight on what leadership in the higher roles of SGA should look like. While COVID-19 is still very much alive and well throughout the United States and the South especially, many college campuses have begun to slow the journey of transitioning back and forth between more precautions and less. “They always have something planned for us. Even though we’re in a pandemic, there’s always something to do,” said Orlando Fleming, a senior finance major from Gainesville, Florida. While this is a necessary step taken by all educational institutions, Southern’s SGA has made its steps to bring back a sense of normalcy slowly but surely to The Bluff. DAY CARE from page 1
addition to policies regards if a child or staff member is sick. Dr. Dandridge-Caesar comments that “Now that a child may be sick or have a cold, the child may have to leave as to not get the other children, or staff members sick.” She continues by saying that “Also, the staff gets tested regularly three times a day. The staff also when they use the restroom, clean them directly after and use products that are 80% or higher to kill the virus along with sanitizing wipes and sanitizers in the classroom.” Before enrollment, she says that “…the process is the same but now both the child and parent must give a negative COVID test before they can be admitted.” It is safe to say that most procedures have already been in place but, due to COVID, flaws were pointed out, addressed, and managed. The daycare is also not just for people who are on campus but also for people off-campus. Also there is a discount offered to the students who attend the school. For more information, students can contact Dr. Keisha Dandridge-Caesar at 225-7713493 or 225-771-5714 or send an email at suchdvlab@subr. edu.
www.southerndigest.com
SPORTS
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Page 4 | Tuesday, March 9, 2021
Not Enough: Jaguars comeback stalls in final quarter against UAPB
Kynnedi Jackson The Southern Digest
The Jaguars matched up with the UAPB Golden Lions on Saturday following their season opening victory over ASU as they looked to continue their winning ways. The first quarter went by fast with not much action, with both teams showing that they were capable of getting the ball down the field. With a little over the halfway mark left in the first quarter the Lions broke the tie. UAPB scored a field goal, bringing the score to 3-0. With just moments left in the first quarter, Sophomore running back Jarod Sims, scored a 23-yard touchdown as the Jags closed the first quarter with a 7-3 lead. Kicking off the second quarter was very reminiscent of the first both teams continuing their success in moving the ball down the field. This time around with just 3 minutes elapsed in the second quarter, UAPB’s Skyler Perry scored a touchdown off a 31-yard rush, bringing the score to 10-7. See FOOTBALL page 4
Freshman, tight end Ethan Howard is halted by a host UAPB defenders at Southern’s home-opener on March 6 at A.W. Mumford Stadium. (Kyndall Jones/DIGEST)
On the run: Southern Baseball sweeps Grambling State in inner conference play Evan Fiunchess The Southern Digest
Friday evening, Southern baseball began their threegame home series against rival Grambling State. Southern was coming off of a rough series during the previous weekend against Louisiana Tech in which they themselves were swept. On the season Southern was 1-6 overall so they looked to regain their footing against their longtime rivals. The first game of the series resulted in a great show of offense as both teams put up high run totals. Southern drove in eight runs between the second and fifth innings. Their offense carried them as they outlasted Grambling 8-9 in game 1. The Jags established a new seasonhigh for runs as a team as they began their series. The second game was very reminiscent of the first in the way that both teams seemed to exchange runs. Southern in the first innings, put up five uncontested runs against Grambling in a show of force for the team. The Jags capitalized on pitching mistakes as well as great baserunning from their lineup. The Jags pitching was able to hold Grambling scoreless
Courtesy SU Athletics @318photo
all the way until the fifth inning. In the fifth, Grambling responded to Southern with 4 runs while Southern maintained their lead with one run coming from great baserunning by Junior Zavier Moore. The game remained tight the rest of the way with both teams exchanging hits throughout.
In the 7th inning, Grambling found a way to tie the game up at nine runs apiece. Neither team could seem to register a run through the next two innings which only meant one thing, extra innings. In the tenth inning, Southern loaded the bases and secured a gamewinning walk to secure the win
10-9. Southern not only topped their previous season-high run total but did it in a very exciting way. The third game of the series wasn’t as action-packed; however, Southern continued their winning ways by securing the win 5-3. This win marked Southern’s first series victory
of the season. This also marked Southern’s first series sweep of the season as well. This was a series of firsts for Southern as they began a new trend of offensive fireworks. Their next game will be on Tuesday against Tulane.
www.southerndigest.com Tuesday, March 9, 2021 | Page 5
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
SPORTS
Still perfect: Team LeBron wins NBA All-Star Game 170-150 PAUL NEWBERRY AP Sports Writer
ATLANTA (AP) — In the midst of a pandemic, this was assured of being an NBA AllStar Game like no other. The stands were mostly empty. The crowd noise was largely piped in. There were no A-list celebrities sitting courtside. Two players had to sit out after getting haircuts. But in the end, it had a familiar feel. Team LeBron won again. Knocking down shots from all over the court, LeBron James’ powerhouse squad closed the first half with a dominating run to set up a 170-150 romp over Team Durant in the league’s 70th midseason showcase Sunday night. The top vote-getters in each conference have picked the teams the last four years, a duty that James has earned every season. He’s now 4-0, having defeated Stephen Curry’s squad in 2018 and teams selected by Milwaukee’s two-time reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo the previous two years. This time, James drafted his two former adversaries and blew away Kevin Durant’s team. “I think he’s got a future as a GM,” said Damian Lillard, another of James’ inspired selections. “He always gets it right.” Antetokounmpo was the game’s MVP after shooting 16 of 16 for 35 points, even making all three of his attempts beyond the 3-point stripe. It was the most baskets without a miss in All-Star Game history. “I’m just having fun,” the Greek star said. “Sometimes
when you’re having fun and not thinking about the outcome, you just let your instincts take over.” Curry chipped in with 28 points, while Lillard had 32. James spent most of the night admiring his drafting skill from the bench. He played less than 13 minutes, scored just four points, and didn’t return to the court in the second half. Instead, he munched a snack on the bench. “I know he was managing his minutes tonight,” Curry said. “We had a great time, representing him as captain. It was a memorable night for sure.” It sure was for Curry, who won the 3-point competition beforehand, then went 8 of 16 from beyond the arc in the game. Lillard matched him, also making 8 of 16 from 3-point range. This All-Star Game sure was different than the previous 69. Determined to pull off an exhibition that is huge for TV revenue and the league’s worldwide brand, the NBA staged the game in a mostly empty downtown arena, a madefor-TV extravaganza that was symbolic of the coronavirus era. Despite extensive safety protocols in place, two players didn’t even make it to tipoff. Philadelphia stars Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons were ruled out because they got haircuts from a barber who tested positive for COVID-19. The only good thing for Durant: He didn’t have to participate in this shellacking, sitting out the game with an ailing hamstring. Bradley Beal led Team Durant with 26 points. On a night highlighting Historically Black Colleges
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James smiles during the first half of basketball’s NBA All-Star Game in Atlanta, Sunday, March 7, 2021. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
and Universities, Team LeBron swept the first three quarters and cruised to the final target score, earning a total of $750,000 for its charity, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The game got out of hand late in the second quarter. With scant defense being played, Team LeBron took turns dunking off alley-oop passes. Chris Paul delivered back-toback lobs that Lillard and Curry slammed through. Then, it was Paul on the receiving end of a payback pass from Curry. After showing it could handle shots up close, Team LeBron headed outside in the final seconds of the half. Lillard pulled up for a 3-pointer from the half-court line. Not to be outdone, Curry knocked down one from virtually the same spot.
“It was a lot of fun,” Lillard said. “Me and Steph shoot a lot of 3s. We shoot deep 3s. It was 3, 3, 3, 3, 3.” Instead of a packed house, with A-list celebrities crammed into prime courtside seats, this game was attended by a smattering of hand-picked guests. They had plenty of room to spread out in a 17,000-seat venue that was essentially transformed into a giant television studio, with socially distanced spectators kept far from the court. Towering video screens were set up behind the benches. Vegas-style lights flashed around the arena. Recorded crowd noise blared over the sound system. The entertainment was provided by the host Atlanta Hawks, who didn’t have any players in the game but were represented by their cheerleaders, drum line
and DJ. To address fears that one of its biggest events would become a super-spreader for a virus that has killed more than a halfmillion Americans, the NBA pared down its usual weekendlong ritual of extravagant parties, gridlocked streets and people watching This All-Star Game was a one-night-only event, with a pair of skill competitions held shortly before the game and the Dunk Contest squeezed into the halftime break.“This is when everyone in basketball all over the world comes to one city,” James said before the game. “We’re able to sit back and go, ‘Wow, this is the game we have built.’ It’s a beautiful weekend for all walks of life, on the floor and off the floor. FOOTBALL from page 4
Senior, quarterback Ladarius Skelton scrambles for extra yardage in Saturday game against UAPB. (Keith Lewis/DIGEST)
Immediately the Jags offered up a response of their own with redshirt Senior Marquis McClain scoring a touchdown on a 13-yard pass from redshirt Senior John Lampley bringing the score to 14-10. UAPB then grabbed the momentum from Southern, scoring three times back-to-back on the Jags. With 2 minutes and 38 seconds left in the second quarter, UAPB scored on a 14yard pass from Perry scoring a touchdown. The Lions then took the lead 19-14. Right before the half with just 2 seconds left on the clock, UAPB scored another touchdown, increasing their lead 26-14. The Lions were the first to score in the third quarter. Skyler Perry gained a 2-yard rush that expanded the Lions lead to 3314. The Jags respond to this with
56 seconds left on the clock, scoring a Field Goal to decrease the deficit to a score of 33-17. During the fourth quarter, Southern seemed to gain a little bit of their momentum back after scoring two touchdowns in this quarter. The first was just a minute into the quarter with Jamel Byrd returning a 17-yard blocked punt. The team went for the 2-point pass conversion but failed, bringing the score to 3323. The second touchdown was scored by Jerodd Sims, receiving a 9-yard pass from Lampley. Even still with what seemed to be a great comeback in the makings however, the Jags fell short 33-30. After the game, Southern University’s Head Coach, Dawson Odoms said, “we came back in the second half, but we had already dug a hole and
it was too late.” Although he was a bit upset with the team’s performance he reflected on the injuries of both teams and the downfalls saying the game was about, “who can survive the injury bug with consistent playing.” Redshirt Senior Linebacker Caleb Carter was asked to speak on the game and the team’s mindset throughout the game. In regards to the string of injuries that the team has had to go through, Carter said they just “knew they had to fight through it,” This week the team has a byeweek. The Jags will continue their season Saturday, March 20, 2021, at 7:30 pm vs. the Texas Southern Tigers.
www.southerndigest.com
FEATURES
Page 6 | Tuesday, March 9, 2021
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Life of a Southern Queen: Douglas Taylor The Southern Digest
courtesy Shavante McKendall
A well-known name buzzes around Southern University A&M; there has been a particular student whose impact on the university is shown through affiliation with multiple programs, accolades, accomplishments. Her name is Shavante’ McKendall, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana. A senior accounting major, she views herself as an ‘overachiever who is determined to strive for nothing less than success within any and everything she involves herself with.’ McKendall has been recognized for her excellence within the many organizations she has participated in and are currently affiliated with. Several organizations hail her among their ranks as an inductee of the International Honor Society of Theta Gamma Sigma in 2019, former dancer of the Golden Blues, inductee of the Collegiate 100 in 2020, former Miss ROTC of Southern University’s Army ROTC Program, and currently Ms.
Black and Gold of Beta Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Incorporated. Though COVID has kept many social restrictions in effect, McKendall feels as if she should and still makes plans to do for the campus and the community throughout this tough time. Her introduction to this came from a former graduate and member of the fraternity who thought she would be well qualified and would excel within the pageants the university would hold for the organization. The day before the first pageant she participated in, McKendall felt as if she wasn’t fully prepared for it at all and thought she wouldn’t do well at all. She stated, “Everything started to fall into place because I had that support system that made sure I had everything I needed.” After accepting this challenge, McKendall would go on to prevail in the regional & state pageants and eventually was chosen to be Ms. Black and Gold. Among her many college years, one See QUEEN page 8
Up and Coming: Campus Entrepreneurs on the rise Te’yanah Owens The Southern Digest
Southern University built a legacy around the brilliance of Black students, whether they’re members of the class of 1921 or 2021. Trailblazing student accomplishments are displayed in organizational leadership, music, and entrepreneurship. Kenneth Martin Jr., a freshman computer science major and musical artist from Baton Rouge, is a prime example of student entreprenuership. With the launch of his clothing brand Flock2Flock in 2019, he displays his original designs on shirts, hoodies, and sweatsuits, with much more to come in the future. “My brand is more than a clothing line, it’s a movement,” said Martin. Flock2Flock’s business name came from him living in his truth and seeking his spiritual journey. While praying and looking for answers outside, he saw flocks of birds. They came
WOMEN’S HISTORY
in groups of 2 and 3, and flew in a V-shaped form. Therefore, inspiring his logo. The other branch of his company, 2Untamed, actually came before Flock2Flock. 2Untamed was influenced by a song he wrote, whereafter he ended up putting the two names together for his business.
Kenneth thanks his mother for being supportive of his dreams, but gives ultimate praise to his spiritual motivation. “I want
to give thanks to God because none of it would be possible without him.”
Mahcoe Edwards, a junior mechanical engineering major and member of the Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. from Tulsa, Oklahoma, established his clothing line “4x4Visions” after the pandemic started in 2020. The brand’s name stems from his line number after crossing
the fraternity and watching a lot of Anime. He thought the name 4 by 4 with an X would connect with his major because of dimensions and the logo being an actual box. Edwards’ love for drawing, designing, and colors are a few reasons why he decided to develop this business. “With my brand, it just gave me a reason to really do what I like to do while also pushing the mindset that you can do what you want to do.” Edwards tries to target young adults with his clothing line, and thinks about possibly making the venture a full time effort. 4x4Visions started off as a six month project so he contemplated going forward. “As soon as I saw what I was doing in those six months and how lucrative it could be if I took it seriously, I went ahead and put my all into it.” By thoroughly pursuing this business, he plans to do what he can to push his mindset of ideas into his brand and make people feel as comfortable as possible.
CELEBR ATING WOMEN ’S HIS TORY MONTH What place granted women the right to vote first? The Wyoming Territorial legislature gave women the right to vote first in 1869. Who is the first person and woman to have two Nobel Prizes? Marie Curie was the first person and only woman to win two Nobel Prizes, that being physics in 1903 and chemistry in 1911. Did the 19th amendment really give all women the right to vote? It was signed into law in 1920 but other laws prohibited women of color from voting.
Te’yanah Owens The Southern Digest
What First Lady held all woman press conferences? Eleanor Roosevelt held the first press conference for women reporters in 1933.
Woman’s History Month Quiz Jalyn Garner The Southern Digest
Q1. Who was the Shoshone Indian woman who served as guide and interpreter on the Lewis and Clark expedition? • Sacajawea • Nanye-hi • Lozen • Zitkála-Šá Q2. Who spoke out for the advancement of American Indians’ rights from speaker’s platforms nationwide and before Congressional committees in the 1880s? • Lyda Conley • Nancy Ward • Sarah Winnemucca • Susan La Flesche Q3. Which woman served as a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad, freeing hundreds of southern slaves and leading them to safety in the North? A $40,000 reward was offered for her capture. • Angelina Welde Grimke • Harriet Tubman • Sojourner Truth • Susan B. Anthony Q4. What journalist traveled around the world in 72 days in 1890? • • • •
Ethel Payne Gwen Ifill Martha Gellhorn Nellie Bly
Q5. What woman was turned down by 29 medical schools before being accepted as a student, graduated at the head of her class, and became the first licensed woman doctor in the U.S.? • Susan LaFlesche Picotte • Elizabeth Blackwell • Rebecca Lee Crumpler • Mary Putnam Jacobi Q6. Who was the first woman to run for President of the United States? • Elizabeth Cady Stanton • Susan B. Anthony • Victoria Woodhull • Hillary Clinton Q7. How many years did it take for women to win the right to vote in the United States? • 72 years • 120 years • 20 years • 51 years ANSWERS ON ARE PAGE 8
www.southerndigest.com Tuesday, March 9, 2021 | Page 7
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Midterm Survival Guide/Tips During Exams To Avoid Stress Jalynn Jacobs The Southern Digest
Are you stressing about midterms? One of the tips and tricks I do to avoid stressing over midterms is mediating. Meditation is a great way to clear and calm the mind. It addresses stress, whether positive or negative. Meditation can also reduce the areas of anxiety, chronic pain, depression, heart disease and high blood pressure. Meditating before exams can improve concentration. A lot of times students cram and study way too hard. Staying up the night before the test won’t help anything because the body doesn’t have the proper rest. The brain won’t develop any deep understanding of the information, and the student will be too tired
to even get up for class. Take a break! It is ok to stop studying for a while and rest. The body needs a break to function accordingly. Overcrowding information would not help the score. Having a good night sleep can eliminate pressure before exam day. Sleep is a huge stress reducer. Following a regular sleep routine calms and restores the body, improves concentration, regulates mood, and sharpens judgment and decision-making. Lack of sleep reduces energy and does not give the proper knowledge before the test. Fatigue can set in after missing one night of sleep, impairing your short-term memory and leaving you unable to focus. Preferably, the doctors say get eight hours of sleep. Getting eight hours of sleep helps the body stay in good mental
and physical health, and promotes quality of life. Staying positive is always a great way to decrease stress. Do not overburden, do not compare yourself with others, and speak things into reality. Having a strong mind before doing the test can get you a better score. Negative thoughts before a test can affect the score. Keep happy thoughts and confidence that the test will be great. Visualizing success is having a visual idea of what you’re getting yourself into in order to reach your ultimate goal. While you’re studying, imagine yourself taking the test and answering the questions with confidence. The mind is going to feel so much healthier and going to be ready for the test.
Teachers Struggling to Effectively Adapt to Video Classes Debrandin Brown The Southern Digest
OPINIONS/SUBMISSIONS POLICY The Southern DIGEST is not responsible for individual opinions expressed in speak out submissions, editorials, opinions and commentary pieces, including sports commentaries. It is the sole opinion of the writer and does not reflect the views of any professional faculty, staff or administrator of the University. The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be e-mailed to digest@subr.edu.
Since the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic in America, there’s been a struggle between students and teachers on how to most effectively and efficiently undertake class meetings. While many teachers don’t nitpick whether or not students show their face on the calls, there are just as many more who are insisting on face-to-face contact. From the teacher perspective, you understand the desire to see the faces of your students. After all, part of being a teacher is being able to stand in front of your class and connect with them on an interpersonal level through instruction. For many of them, they likely rely on eye contact and face-to-face communication to best instruct their charges and view their attentiveness throughout a class period. However, at the same time, the student perspective must be taken into account if we are to accurately gauge the success of having your cams on vs having
them off during class meetings. For students, struggles with normal social anxiety is enough to make them want to turn invisible during a given class period. When you add this factor to the new introduction of virtual classes, many students are opting to participate in classes with their cam off. Having to share yourself visually in a class full of strangers can present an overwhelming pressure on introverts, but more than that, it lays the groundwork for the disregarding of feelings towards the student population as a whole. When a student tells the teacher that they don’t feel comfortable showing their surroundings or their face to a virtual class of people that they don’t know, the boundaries of the students shouldn’t be ignored just because it’s better for the teacher. While this is a multifaceted issue, it’s one that can be rectified simply by acknowledging the boundaries that students who remotely learn make
you aware of. Ultimately, it’s the duty of the university to create the most successful learning environments as possible for their students, which this forced participation in on-camera class works in detriment of. What the situation ultimately comes down to however is power and authority. For as much as teachers pride themselves on being educators, it’s the thrill of being an authoritarian that fuels their passion for their job. In a virtual setting where you can’t tell your students to do or not to do, you take advantage of whatever power is left available to you, which has led to the aforementioned Camera-On/ Off Policy Disputes. Should the virtual format of learning become a dominant means of instruction going forward, compromise on behalf of instructors who demand to see you on camera during classes will be needed to keep students turned on to the idea of virtual classes.
OPINION NBA All-Star Weekend pays homage to HBCUs Jalyn Garner The Southern Digest
This past week was the NBA’s All-Star weekend, a three day event filled with fan filled fun from the dunk contest, threepoint contest, skills challenge, and the All-Star game itself. This year’s All-Star weekend, the NBA decided to pay homage to HBCUs this AllStar weekend leaving current students and alumni amazed. During the halftime segment of the star studded game different players were asked if they had a choice to go back and pick an HBCU to attend which HBCU and why. One of today’s NBA’s most talented player’s Boston Celtics Jason Tatum, and Los Angeles Clippers small forward Paul George named North Carolina-Central and Grambling State as their choices for HBCUs. Then there was Southern University’s own David Banner, who delivered a powerful message about HBCUs where he stated his reasoning for Southern’s influence on his career and life. From Pam Oliver, rapper Common, Spike Lee, 2 Chainz, Micheal Strahan, and DJ Envy to name a few. Portland Trailblazer’s power forward and Tennessee State alum Robert Covington surprised two Tennessee State current students with $25,000 scholarships, this coming just four months after e donated $1 million dollars to his alma mater for a new basketball facility named Covington Pavilion.”It’s an overall great experience to be able to put all HBCUs on the map,” Covington told NBC Sports. During the NBA’s Skills Challenge Covington wore his Tennessee State basketball jersey representing his HBCU proudly. This year’s All-Star game saw a difference in the court also, the NBA paid homage to HBCUs also by having a HBCU “themed” court, which entailed a drum major, a drum set HBCU logo, and graduation cap seen on both sides of the court. Players like Chris Paul and Lebron James, who just recently endorsed FAMU with new Nike partnership. Players such as Robert Covington and Kyle O’Quinn are only the tip of the iceberg as to what having more representation of HBCUs in the NBA, all it takes is one!
www.southerndigest.com
FEATURES
Page 8 | Tuesday, March 9, 2021
The Sentinel of an Enlightened Student Body Since 1926
Results: 7 correct: Congratulations, you truly are up to date with your women’s history! 4 – 7 correct: Okay, you may not know all the facts, but remember you’re learning more each day. 1 – 3 correct: You need to get up to date, learn about the phenomenal women around us!
Quiz Answers: 1. Sacajawea 2. Sarah Winnemucca 3. Harriet Tubman 4. Nellie Bly 5. Elizabeth Blackwell 6. Victoria Woodhull 7. 72 years
QUEEN from page 6
of the first programs she affiliated herself with was the Southern University Army ROTC Program. McKendall was initially introduced to the U.S. Army back in high school by taking JROTC courses, since at this time, it was a requirement to take in order to graduate. This would better influence her to be involved with the ROTC Program here at Southern University A&M College, as she wanted to also dance for the school. McKendall expressed how, “I wanted to dance at Southern… I wanted to go to school to do ROTC anyways, so why not do it at Southern.” She later attended Southern University and had the opportunity to join not only the Army ROTC Program, but also become a member of the Gold ‘n’ Bluez dance team. McKendall would go on to become 2018-2019 Miss Army ROTC, and currently holds the role of the first female Battalion Commander of the Southern University U.S. Army ROTC Program. Her role as the Battalion Commander impacts the lives of those who are involved within the program. As BC of the organization, McKendall’s role is to instruct new inductees in the right direction, while providing the appropriate knowledge needed to help them progress within not only their military career, but their overall lives as well. With each program she is in affinition with, McKendall hopes to inspire people to pursue anything they desire, as she has done. With all the accomplishments achieved throughout her college career, McKendall feels as if she will continue to motivate those to continue to drive forward on their personal goals in hopes of achieving them, with no doubt within whatever they choose to do.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
March 8 – 12, 2021 The Southern University: Celebrating Unity Monday, March 8
#ImSoGlad Social Media Challenge John B. Cade Library Exhibit and Video
Tuesday, March 9
Southern University System Virtual Convocation
Wednesday, March 10
SU System Students Celebration
Thursday, March 11
Employee Service Recognition Terrence Osborne “The Bluff” Art Print Signing
Friday, March 12
Southern Spirit Day SU Alumni Brick Scholarship Fund Launch SU Alumni 40 Under Forty Announcement a.
141 THE
Celebrating Unity
Throughout March
SU Alumni: Founders’ Fund Campaign *All events are virtual unless noted otherwise.
subr.edu/foundersday #SU141
b.
THE
Celebrating Unity