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southerndigest.com
Page 2 - Tuesday, May 7, 2019
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
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Stress-free Registration: Vice-Chancellor Scott details latest registration changes
STUDENT MEDIA OFFICE
Director.................................... Jermaine Proshee Publications Mgr. ................................................ Business/Advertising Manager ..Camelia Jackson
CONTACTS (area code 225)
Student Media Newsroom.....................771.2231 Advertising Office.................................. 771.5833 MultiMedia Suite ..................................771.5812
SPRING 2019 STAFF
Editor-in-Chief..........................................Jacqueline Morgan Managing Editor.......................................... James Eaglin, Jr. Copy Editor................................................ Contara Mayfield A&E Editor........................................................ Najeri Evans Multimedia Editor...........................................Devin Hadrick News Editor.................................................................. Vacant Photo Editor....................................................... Keith Lewis Commentary Editor.........................................Leah Williams Sports Editor...............................................Debrandin Brown Staff Writer......................................................... Aliya Creecy Staff Writer......................................................... Jalyn Garner Staff Writer............................................. Shakearah Winston Staff Writer......................................................Keenon Glover Staff Writer.................................................. Logan Williams Staff Writer.................................................... Kiyanna Givens Staff Writer................................................Cameron Fontenot Staff Writer....................................................... Jaila Lavender Staff Writer.................................................. Jordan Victorian Staff Writer...................................................... Tyler Thomas Staff Writer.................................................. Garland Johnson Staff Writer....................................................Diamond Butler Staff Writer........................................................Paris Duncan Staff Photographer...........................................Jodeci Ashford Staff Photographer.............................................Kyndall Jones Staff Photographer.....................................Rocelyn Hamilton Staff Photographer.......................................... Destiny Speaks Staff Photographer..............................................Jairus Moore
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 commentary 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-mailed 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.
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 division of the Office of Student Affairs.
Financial Aid Counselor, Joseph Royal, meets with sophomore Business Management major, Bradley Harris to discuss Financial Aid requirements and eligibility. (DIGEST FILE)
James Eaglin, Jr.
The Southern Digest
Each semester, the registration process at Southern University is notorious for raising the stress levels of students and their families alike. Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Dr. Kimberly Scott is hoping a few new changes could lead to more happily enrolled students. On April 1, an email was sent out to the SU campus community announcing that each student must be registered before leaving campus in May 2019, and that all financial aid should be completed, accepted and applied for before the July 1 deadline, including the “20 for 20” Scholarships. The email also shared the possibility of allowing students to make payments toward their student accounts prior to July 1, reducing the number of unpaid account issues leading up to the fall semester. “The goal is that if everybody is paid by July 1, they come back happy, healthy, and well, and only have to be worried about getting moved in, having a few moments to kick back, relax, and enjoy the early start to the semester, and then, hopefully start their class without any degree of stress,” said Scott. “I don’t want to see students having to struggle to figure out how to pay their bills. We should be working with them to [figure it out] before they get here, not once they get here.” Changes have been made in terms of student engagement and customer service, with phone operators and representatives being encouraged to
“The goal is that if everybody is paid by July 1, they come back happy, healthy, and well, and only have to be worried about getting moved in, having a few moments to kick back . . . hopefully start their class without any degree of stress . . . I don’t want to see students having to struggle . . .” - Dr. Kimberly Scott - Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management
accept feedback from students. Scott mentioned the possibility to reduce the amount of paper used during the registration process. “As far as I know, we do have the ability to be completely paperless, and I think that that’s where we’re trying to go,” With the Bursar’s Office reportedly moving closer to the Registrar’s Office in the fall, students could also look forward to less runarounds in the near future. Among some of the issues that arose from the new mandates, Scott referenced a change in the requirements for academic coaching through the Office of Academic Affairs that left some students not knowing how to create their own schedule or unaware of what steps to take. Scott added, “I do know that there were some students who raised some concerns about really being able to just go in and put their courses in whenever they wanted to put their courses in.” Rising sophomores like Imani Savoy, an Elementary Education major, were among the last of students able to register for classes. “I had made my schedule ahead of time and then when I went to go put it in [through Banner] one of my classes
wasn’t available because sophomores had to wait,” said Savoy. On the first week of registration, priority was given to athletes, honor students, and band members, with each following week allowing more students to enroll based on classification. Rising senior Finance major Kanton Jones expressed concern with having to get overrides as a upperclassman. “The only difficult part about registering for classes is having to get overrides because some classes fill up immediately on the registration date.” Scott hopes that in the end, registration will become a stress-less procedure. “We’re trying to create as many spaces that will give students less stress as possible…We really do want students to have a good experience,” Students and family members can email studentaffairs@subr.edu to voice any questions, comments, and/ or concerns, or stop by her office located on the second floor of the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union weekdays between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm.
News southerndigest.com
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Jacqueline Morgan
The Southern Digest
Tuesday, May 7, 2019 - Page 3
Dorsey set to deliver spring commencement speech
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), and their products alike, are only slightly indicative of the success that the African-American community has thrived upon for decades to pass. The graduates that return to give back in various ways are also only a minute exemplification of what the typical HBCU has to offer. Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College is notorious for producing the nation’s brightest engineers, teachers, accountants, musicians, psychologists, politicians, and the overall leading group of young professionals. On Friday, May 10 at 10 a.m., over 400 graduates and their supporters will fill the F.G. Clark Activity Center as awardwinning actor, Omar J. Dorsey delivers the Spring 2019 commencement speech.
Omar J. Dorsey is a native of Decatur, Georgia, but currently resides in Los Angeles, California with his wife and two children. Known most recently for his role in the hit TV series, Queen Sugar, Dorsey has starred in several high profile visual productions among the likes of Django Unchained, Drumline, and The Blind Side. A graduate of the Georgia State University theatre program, Dorsey has not yet been granted the HBCU experience, but will receive a small dose as graduates collect bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees this coming Friday. Graduates at fellow HBCUs will also be welcoming African-American speakers who have created sustainable success for themselves. Figures like Loretta Lynch (Tuskegee University), Bakari Sellers (Lincoln University), Everette Taylor (Shaw University), and Robert F. Smith (Morehouse College), will be speaking
at commencement ceremonies in the coming weeks. Graduating senior, Tia Walker, expressed her opinion as it relates to commencement speakers saying, “I like graduation speakers when they speak on relevant topics, but the speeches can be a bit shorter. This year’s speaker is cool regardless because I like the show Queen Sugar.” Slightly straying from Walker’s sentiments is graduating senior, Jaylon Brinson. “To be honest, it doesn’t matter to me who speaks at graduation as long as the words are encouraging, and they are black. I want to graduate hearing wise words from someone who looks like me, and can show me black success,” Brinson said. Dorsey will be appearing in a limited Netflix series at the end of the month, but will be in Baton Rouge, LA on May
From the Desk of the Editor
JACQUELINE MORGAN
Team SU, With 25 complete issues under our belt this academic
year, the editorial staff of The Southern Digest would like to extend our deepest gratitudes to every member of the Jaguar Nation who helped us along the way. As students of journalism, my staff and I learn new things each day that we implement in an attempt to provide a pristine readership experience. While we are not perfect, we are overflowing with compliments and praise for this year’s coverage from our readership and beyond. This year, Southern University and the community allowed The Southern Digest
to cover various aspects of the school’s image and output as it relates to the success of our beloved institution. Personally, it was my goal to repair broken relationships and bridge the gaps between The Southern Digest and the entities that we represent systemwide. Though we still have ground to cover, I am confident in saying that we did our best to be simultaneously inclusive, transparent, restorative, and diverse with this year’s content; one step of man towards establishing concrete trust between us and our readership. The Southern Digest was
Courtesy: SU MEDIA RELATIONS
10 for the Spring 2019 commencement ceremony.
awarded 2nd Place: Best Newspaper at the 2019 College Association Spring National Conference in New York, and 2nd Place: Best Layout/ Design at the 2019 Louisiana/ Mississippi AP Awards, and we look forward to acquiring more recognition in this upcoming year. As all journalists should be, the staff of The Southern Digest is open to receiving all constructive criticism, feedback, words of encouragement, etc... as it relates to this year’s publications. We would also love to hear from you about what readership wants to see
in Volume 72 of The Southern Digest. Please reach out to myself and the editorial staff with any communication via e-mail at digest@subr.edu , or stop by our office in T.H. Harris Hall, Suite 1064. See you in the fall! Yours in Gold and Blue, Jacqueline Morgan 2018-2019 Editor-in-Chief
you.
Thank Southern DIGEST EGO Magazine Jaguar Yearbook
For a great school year!
Sports southerndigest.com
Page 4 - Tuesday, May 7, 2019
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Southern Stuns Prairie View, Clinches #1 Seed
Debrandin Brown
The Southern Digest
Last season, the Southern University Jaguars baseball team only won an abysmal 9 games during the rookie tenure of now second-year Head Coach Kerrick Jackson. Not making the postseason in almost nine years up to that point, many alumni and students were left wondering when baseball would take the rights steps to a winning turnaround. At the start of the 2019 season however, Coach Jackson and his squad came into the year looking to fight the wrongs of their past, winning six of their first nine games to almost shatter last year’s win total in the first month of the season. Winning 27 games before the conclusion of their series against Prairie View A&M, the Jaguars clinched their first West division title since the 2012 season as they claim the #1 seed in the upcoming SWAC Tournament in New Orleans. Coming into last Saturday’s game against Prairie View, the Jags built on what was already a SWAC-best record coming into their final regular season weekend series. Behind solid run support from senior infielder Malik Blaise, junior pitcher Eli Finney tallied up his fourth win of the season against Prairie View. The Jags jumped out to take a 7-2 lead in the top of the 2nd inning following junior infielder Willie Ward’s 2 RBI single. At the end of the 6th inning, Southern was up by eight runs (11-3), with RBI contributions from senior outfielder Ashanti Wheatley, senior infielder Tyler LaPorte, and senior catcher Bobby Johnson. Prairie View made a final push late in the contest to pull within four runs, but after a game-ending double play,
COURTESY/SU MEDIA RELATIONS
the Jags defeated Prairie View with a final score of 12-8. “I wish we could have won a little prettier, but I will take an ugly win over a pretty loss any day,” said Coach Jackson. “It feels good, but it’s not done yet. We need to finish in the conference tournament.” The Jags will look to keep their momentum going heading into SWAC tournament play, where they will aim to replicate the same outcome achieved during the 2009 season, when SU coaching legend Roger Cador led the team to a SWAC Championship title. After last season’s struggles, this year’s success means even more to many members of the team going into tournament play.
A year in Jaguar Athletics
Debrandin Brown
The Southern Digest
Sports at Southern University during 2018 have been noteworthy among the many decades of excellence in Jaguar Athletics. Although the football season started off slow against non-conference opponents, Coach Odoms and his crew quickly found their stride as they took wins against both Jackson State and Grambling en route to an electrifying Bayou Classic win. Tallying 7 total wins on the season, Southern built on what was a successful campaign in the 2017-2018 season by earning a trip to the SWAC Championship game this year. Along with football, basketball and volleyball also had productive seasons that included postseason appearances for our female student athletes. Led by second-year Head Coach Venessa Jacobs, Southern Volleyball saw the Lady Jaguars win 11 of their final 14 games, including back-to-back wins vs Grambling. Being honored for their work in the community as well, the Jaguars volleyball team took steps to building a winning culture going forward. The Lady Jags basketball team, under the guidance of first-year Head Coach Carlos Funchess, led the women’s basketball team to the number one seed in SWAC Tournament behind the play of their senior class.
After redeeming a loss to Grambling the previous year in the SWAC Championship, the Jags went all the way to the final round of the SWAC Tournament where they defeated Jackson State to claim the SWAC crown and clinch a seed in the NCAA Tournament. Southern’s baseball team, which won 9-games in total last season, has blown that win total out of the water with 26wins on the season with three opponents left on their schedule. Head Coach Kerrick Jackson, a Southern alum and former professional MLB Certified Player Agent, took over the baseball program last year. After going through inevitable growing pains in his first season, Coach Jackson has led Southern baseball to their best season in almost a decade. In addition to an improvement in their overall win total, the Jags have clinched the SWAC West Title going into tournament play in May. The Jags will look for continued success once tournament play starts, and boasting the best record in the SWAC with two games left on the schedule, they will look to make some noise before returning to the Bluff. During the 2018-19 season, there was no shortage of success for Southern University sports, and with many new coaches leading the way for their respective programs, it’s only up from here.
“It feels really good that we’ve made that big of an adjustment from last year,” Wheatley said. “I think we are gritty and never want to settle. The No. 1 seed feels good, but I think there is still work to get done and we are going to keep competing.” During Sunday’s double-header, Southern won Game 1 against the Panthers, sealing another series victory for the Jaguars. The Jags have two away games versus New Orleans and Alcorn State to close out the regular season. Southern’s first conference tournament appearance is scheduled for May 15 against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
Spring 2019 Graduates southerndigest.com
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL, FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES Bobby Phills, Ph.D., Dean Adam W. Trahan, Student Marshal BACHELOR OF SCIENCE Agricultural Sciences Justice R. Anthony, New Iberia Cameron A. Ford, Baton Rouge Dorothy M. Gathers, Baton Rouge Tamisha l. Molden, Baton Rouge Simeon L. Ross, Winnsboro Trimaya L. Thomas, Gilbert Family and Consumer Science Kemi H. Dixon, New Roads Robyn B. Faulcon, New Orleans Symphony Foster, Chicago, IL Brandi Gunn, Baton Rouge Brittany A. Howard, Lancaster, TX Riyon A. Jack, Baker Jordan D. Johnson, Baton Rouge Kiandra D. Lewis, Breaux Bridge Dynisha D. Miller, Baton Rouge Joshua A. Mulder, Baker Alesha R. Murphy, Port Allen De’Ja J. Overton, Lafayette Alexis C. Perkins, Plaquemine Shyro P. Poullard, Oakdale Donna L. Russell, Greenwell Springs Adam W. Trahan, Metairie Kaitlin S. Trahan, Metairie Caleah A. Watts, Jackson BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN URBAN FORESTRY Cornelius O. Jackson, Zachary D’Michael J. Lucas, New Roads Chyanna T. Mcgee, Baton Rouge Henry L. Synegal, Opelousas COLLEGE OF BUSINESS Donald Andrews, Ph.D., Dean Destiny A. Wilson, Student Marshal BACHELOR OF SCIENCE ACCOUNTING Beaunka A. Butler, Edgard Jonathan B. Chemin, Central Terrica S. Clark, Baton Rouge Dineshia A. Coleman, Baton Rouge David A. Dubriel, Baton Rouge Angel S. Fieldings, Baton Rouge Mykeyah J. Grafton, Baton Rouge Jala D. Gray, Baton Rouge Marcus D. Hill, Jr., Monroe Shandrika B. Jones, Zachary Khaliyah D. Keller, Baton Rouge Simone N. Pillette, Abbeville
Tuesday, May 7, 2019 - Page 5
Bobby F. Smith, Baton Rouge Jonvaney Strambler, Houston, TX Kayla S. Thomas, Baton Rouge Chassitty J. Williams, Baton Rouge BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FINANCE Donald J. Green, Monroe Cassandra M. Hughes, Portsmouth, VA Tyler T. Mayweather, Mansfield Derrick McGee, New Orleans Marcus J. McGee, Indianapolis, IN BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Abimbola Adeyemi, Houston, TX Elijah J. Allen, New Orleans Kejuana Bourgeois, New Orleans Christian P. Cummings, Baton Rouge Joshua D. Douglas, Zachary Wilner Elise, New Orleans Brandon A. Foster, Donaldsonville Darrell Hardnett, Baton Rouge Kimberly D. Knighton, Baker Brittney Lea, Baton Rouge Joynisha McCray, Kenner Jared T. Menson, Baton Rouge Franky Montesino, Miami, FL Jaron W. Nicholas, New Orleans Tyra T. Paul, Baton Rouge Daelon J. Richardson, Baton Rouge Paris J. Rogers, Zachary Carldrick N. Slaughter, Baker Iman C. Smith, New Orleans Kierra D. Smith, Baton Rouge Destiny A. Wilson, Jackson Isreal Wilson, Baton Rouge BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MARKETING Melody A. Byrd, Chicago, IL Dasia Cooper, Shreveport Chrystal S. Douglas, Baton Rouge Orrin T. Gibson, Jeanerette Kadeame S. Houston, New Orleans Justin Jemison, Baton Rouge Joshua T. Rogers, Bastrop Jacob J. Roussell, Dallas, TX Carldrick N. Slaughter, Baton Rouge Darby A. Smith, Shreveport Majesti M. Smith, Goldsboro, NC COLLEGE OF HUMANITIES AND INTERDISCIPINARY STUDIES Cynthia Bryant, Ph.D., Dean Vaterra A. Calais, Student Marshal BACHELOR OF ARTS ENGLISH Roland Stewart, Baton Rouge Jamilah N. Stith, Washington, DC Tia D. Walker, Glendale Heights, IL
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MASS COMMUNICATIONS Tanisha R. Banks, Plaquemine Sarai Blissett, Lithonia, GA Jaylon O. Brinson, Tallahassee, FL Charnelle L. Casma, Baton Rouge Kendal J. Dykes, Hammond Cameron Fontenot, Greenwell Springs Devin N. Hadrick, Napoleonville D’Mari D. Harding, Baton Rouge Taylor R. Jeanlewis, New Iberia Avery P. Joseph, Vacherie Anthony B. Kenney, Baton Rouge Lionel Lee, Baton Rouge Destini N. Prevo, Baton Rouge Cayln S. Scott, Natchitoches Alyse B. Shelton, Shreveport Darren E. Smith, Baton Rouge Ja’mesia L. Stewart, Baton Rouge Brandon R. Tucker, Baton Rouge Christina B. White, Baker *Leah Williams, Baton Rouge BACHELOR OF INTERDISCIPINARY STUDIES Jami J. Anderson, Baton Rouge Donyel R. Banks, Baton Rouge Tiara A. Berry, Baton Rouge Francine Brown, Shreveport John J. Bryant, Baton Rouge Ariel B. Burrell, Baton Rouge Lashoen S. Grant, Baton Rouge Darryl E. Harris, Greenville, MS Maiya C. Harris, Baton Rouge Darryl W. Honore, Zachary Korlisha N. Jackson, Allen, TX Jametrice J. Johnson, Baton Rouge *Delana Matthews, Baton Rouge *Kaylyn R. Mills, Baton Rouge Kyler R. McKee, Baton Rouge Adina Oubre, Edgard Brittney T. Porter, Baton Rouge Peronica Riley, Denham Springs Tashika N. Sellers, Baton Rouge Tandrea R. Shamblin, Baton Rouge Tayllor D. Smith, Baton Rouge Edrius D. Stagg, Denham Springs Brittany R. Stewart, Vacherie Grayln G. Tate, Baton Rouge Shenese Thomas, Baker Kasey D. Wafer, Cullen Whitney R. Webster, Baton Rouge Justin Williams, Vacherie Torrie V. Williams, Baton Rouge Carla R. Wooten, Baton Rouge BACHLOR OF MUSIC Jasmine K. Batiste, New Orleans Stephen J. Byrd, Baton Rouge Justin R. Charles, Chalmette Kieta A. Colston, Memphis, TN Jerrell R. Gray, Chicago, Illinois
Spring 2019 Graduates southerndigest.com
Page 6 - Tuesday, May 7, 2019
Stephen J. Gregory, Beaumont, TX K’Vion J. King, Memphis, TN A’Yanna C. Muigua, Tulsa, OK Brandon E. Smith, Baton Rouge BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION Vaterra A. Calais, Saint Martinville Kayla R. Chatman, Gonzales Erika D. Griffin, Baton Rouge Dionne F. Jones, Baton Rouge Tra’Me L. Jones, Brusly Victor L. McNeely, Baton Rouge Keirsten M. Smith, Baker COLLEGE OF NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH Jacqueline Hill, R.N., Ph.D., Interim Dean Melanie R. Walker, Student Marshal BACHELOR OF SCIENCE REHABILITATION SERVICES Maikiya K. Carter, Plaquemine *Danayea L. Charles, Marrero Seymonia C. Cheeks, Church Point Remi A. Crittenden, Marrero *Autumn L. Ford, Baton Rouge *Brittney C. Guess, Prairieville Quintin D. Hall, Douglasville, GA Breanna R. Hulbert, Zachary *Briana M. Jarreau, Baker Andrea J. Johnson, Baton Rouge Tori S. Joseph, Breaux Bridge Alana J. Lemelle, Lake Charles *Skylar S. Obear, White Castle Meltrika M. Raymond, Belle Rose Cosette A. Richard, Baton Rouge *Tedric B. White, New Orleans THERAPEUTIC RECREATION & LEISURE STUDIES Reginald K. Brock, Saint Gabriel Chiandria L. Ferguson, Jackson Essella A. Holland, Baton Rouge Jasmine B. Johnson, Bogalusa Lauren V. Kight, Baker Calvin R. Lunkins, New Orleans Aaliyah P. Roberts, Baton Rouge Kerry A. Taylor, New Orleans LaShandi K. Thompson, Saint Martinville BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING Daphne N. Allen, Monroe Irvin A. Arellano, Zachary Tiffany M. Armstrong, Gretna Chelsie E. Brown, Donaldsonville Trinidee L. Carter, Baton Rouge Lezlie B. Celestine, Zachary Alison B. Chi, Baton Rouge Portland S. Coleman, Zachary Shauntiana A. Colton, Shreveport Ciscely S. Darville, Geismar Destinee D. Delahoussaye, Lake Charles Latrina S. Gibson, Baton Rouge Carly D. Harris, Donaldsonville Kaylynn M. Hebert, Walker Sharmetra A. Henderson, Baton Rouge
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926
Jason E. Ivey, Baton Rouge Candace D. Jeanpierre, New Roads Vyneishia R. Jefferson, Ferriday Miguel A. Jolivette, Opelousas Lashawn Kennedy, Avondale Nicole M. LaRue, Baton Rouge Breanna D. Lavine, Opelousas Jonte L. Lucas, New Roads Kerri Marsalis, Hammond Kimberly N. McKnight, Baker Shanona Y. Mccelos, Baton Rouge Morgan M. Melder, New Orleans Jhaelyn N. Misher, Baton Rouge Crystal R. Mitchell, Baton Rouge Jennay R. Mitchell, Donaldsonville Summekia Nichols, Baton Rouge Donesha L. O’Conner, Zachary Alyssa L. Perry, Baton Rouge Blaize Preston, Baton Rouge Annastasia L. Scott, Jamaica Brittany T. Sims, Loranger Joneisha M. Smith, Donaldsonville Taylor M. Square, Baton Rouge Marlana Y. Stewart, Saint Gabriel Tyquinsia F. Stewart, Baton Rouge Jasmine M. Sylve, Baton Rouge Bria J. Thomas, Brusly Ashley N. Torres, Baton Rouge Melanie R. Walker, Baton Rouge Myya Wallace, Baton Rouge Erin E. Williams, Prairieville Znary A. Williams, Addis Brianna E. Wright, Baton Rouge BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SPEECH PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY Damonique K. Jenkins, Plaquemine Kayla V. Peterson, Zachary Sade Williams, Prairieville COLLEGE OF SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING Patrick Carriere, Ph.D., Dean Joyner E. Deamer, Student Marshal BACHELOR OF SCIENCE BIOLOGY Dawn A. Alexander, Kentwood Ka’Harris S. Bradford, Baton Rouge Desirae J. George-McCool, Canada *Arabella V. Hall, San Antonio, TX Brianne C. Hilliard, Baton Rouge Christian J. Jackson, Shreveport Lakeshmi E. Jackson, Delhi Arianna A. Lambert, Baton Rouge Kala J. Lambert, Gretna Darren J. Morris, New Orleans Victoria I. Price, Dallas, TX D’Jeri J. Raymond, Miramar, FL Adriane N. Roberson, Southfield, MI Samantha Sellers, Tucson, AZ Earne D. Williams, Arlington, TX CHEMISTRY Deja M. Feist, La Place DeSean I. Franklin, Baker Simone I. Garrett, Mobile, AL Hope A. Idakwoji, Nigeria Tiara A. Johnson, Baton Rouge
YaKira C. Kennie, Lake Charles Oscar McClain, Baton Rouge Jalilah M. Muhammad, Baton Rouge Taija D. Stoner-Harris, Rock Island, IL Reginald L. Wesley, Monroe MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS Randi Castille, Lafayette Sageda R. Mason, Baton Rouge Paige D. Mitchell, Donaldsonville Sydney E. Spencer, Missouri City, TX Christian J. Washington, Monroe BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE Elexi N. Bailey, Edgard Lanique M. Bartlett, Bahamas Patrick Cadoret, Pace, FL David Deloach, Jackson Kassirer T. Dunn, Port Allen Michelle A. Harris, Memphis, TN Tyler E. Henderson, Midlothian, TX Deshawna S. Henry, Meraux Jarrel Livous, Baton Rouge Denika L. Maiden, Baton Rouge Gregory J. Richard, Zachary Jovanie L. Smith, Sunrise, FL Latorious D. Spurlock, Zachary Christina N. Williams, La Place Eugena L. Williams, Baker Marqus Woods, Baker BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING *Calesia R. Anderson, Baton Rouge Marc A. Clark, Zachary Joyner E. Deamer, Carbondale, IL Paige A. Hall, Kennedale, TX Brandy N. Kennedy, Avondale Kyler M. Lastie, Conroe, TX Pierre Sherrard, Baton Rouge Shontel R. Sims, Zachary Eric T. Thompson, Harvey BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING Kadijah J. Mims, Maringouin Tevin J. Moore, Mansfield BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING TECHOLOGY Blake A. Henry, Sunset Kendrick D. Hogan, Baton Rouge Caitlin A. Johnson, Baton Rouge Sekou M. Moriels, Seattle, WA BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Vance C. Adams, Baton Rouge Elijah G. Adeoye, Baton Rouge Keltrin K. Burrell, II, Slaughter Dennis C. Craig, Baton Rouge Simone Cyprian, Gretna D’Antonio M. Daigre, Denham Springs Kaleb M. Jennings, New Orleans Kayura L. Jones, Baton Rouge Nicholas A. Jones, Baton Rouge Steven D. Lewis, Akron, OH Eric S. Reynolds, Gretna
Spring 2019 Graduates southerndigest.com
The Sentinel Of An Enlightened Student Body since 1926 Tony Richardson, Aurora, IL Jaylen J. Scott, Baton Rouge NELSON MANDELA COLLEGE OF GOVERNMENT AND SOCIAL SCIENCE Damien Ejigiri, Ph.D., Dean Chacity C. Simmons, Student Marshal BACHELOR OF ARTS HISTORY Taylor Clark, Baton Rouge Donald L. Jones, Baton Rouge Jeremy I. Nettles, Baton Rouge Paris A. Willoughby, New Orleans POLITICAL SCIENCE Ashley N. Age, Baton Rouge Telia C. Ball, Shreveport Ashlee S. Jackson, Hayward, CA Ariyawn D. Johnson, Monroe Torrie K. Johnson, Zachary Adagio J. Kanonu Mr., Rayne Maya A. Kleinpeter, Prairieville Kobie J. Lain, New Orleans Malik T. Smith, Baton Rouge Lawrence J. Snowton, New Orleans *Cassidi S. Williams, Houston, TX BACHELOR OF SCIENCE PSYCHOLOGY Quinetta E. Ardoin, Baton Rouge Talana R. Butler, New Roads Abby V. Farias, Pasadena, TX Breanna G. Green, Baton Rouge Reneisha S. Hammond, Plaquemine Tiffani B. Henderson, Zachary Glennisha J. Howard, Baton Rouge Melodie Jackson, Metairie Tashema N. Jackson, Amite Troi B. Jefferson, Pearland, TX Jakira J. Johnson, Reserve Jasmin K. Julien, Donaldsonville Minica A. Knox, Baton Rouge Kevonne C. Landry, Saint Gabriel Tyree J. LeBeau, New Orleans Katlyn J. McZeal, Lake Charles Danielle R. Mitchell, Baton Rouge Bayley L. Neubauer, Baton Rouge Destiny D. Nevills, Opelousas Shalyndria Parker, Memphis, TN Kushiah E. Perry, Alexandria Christopher J. Pitts, Baton Rouge Torrie D. Redwine, Mableton, GA Myles D. Tilford, Houston, TX Ramona Toussaint, Ville Platte Louise Vincent, Baton Rouge Marqita S. Warmsley, Prairieville De’Ja Watson, Harvey SOCIOLOGY Lacey Carney, Baton Rouge *Tejuana D. Chambers, Baton Rouge *Donalda R. Davis, Clinton Josie E. Gibson, Slidell *Farrah C. Johnson, Walker Gloria D. Jones, Baton Rouge Richard Lee, Lake Worth, FL Tyanna D. Paul, Baton Rouge
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Yvonne M. Roberson, Baton Rouge Anthony R. Rosezine, Baton Rouge Ebony L. Taylor, Gramercy *Lauren R. Walker, New Iberia Courtney R. Winchester, Donaldsonville Harold M. Zachary, White Castle BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE Jai O. Adams, Baton Rouge LaShona L. Alexander, Baton Rouge Elexa A. Allen, Baton Rouge Cortney R. Bellard, Lake Charles Brittany T. Boatner, Baton Rouge Kristen E. Braud, Alexandria Alexis M. Brown, Shreveport Charles E. Causey, Baton Rouge Morgan J. Clay, Missouri City, TX Tynisha Crushfield, La Place Dominique N. Danja, Lake Charles Brandon R. Diggs, New Orleans Le’Trell Duncan, Baton Rouge Montavius T. Gaines, Tucker, GA Lokilani A. Gales, Dayton, OH Robert D. Gullette, Alexandria Benjamin L. Harris, Baton Rouge Tanadj K. Henderson, New Orleans Kimmiko K. Henry, Baton Rouge Tyler R. Hernandez, Gretna Demerio M. Houston, Shelby, NC Kori S. Houston, Atlanta, GA Star L. Howard, Shreveport Arvin C. Huff, Metairie Kourtney T. Jackson, Greenwell Springs Joshula E. Jacquet, Saint Martinville Nikeya Z. Johnson, Baton Rouge Antaneshia D. Jones, Shreveport Johnathan C. Jones, Shreveport Shatashea K. Leonard, Shreveport Kevin J. Levingston, Port Arthur, TX Kendel L. Lewis, Broussard Marshall L. Muse, Ponchatoula Alexandria H. Nelson, Wake Village, TX Jazmine N. O’Neal, Carrollton, TX Kierra Paul, New Orleans Chloe L. Preston, Baton Rouge India A. Price, Baton Rouge Crystal Robertson, Baton Rouge Montrea R. Signater, Baton Rouge Chacity C. Simmons, Baton Rouge Darshae L. Tate, Baton Rouge Vionca N. Wells, Baton Rouge Samantha R. Williams, Lake Charles BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN SOCIAL WORK Rocquelle N. Aguillard, Baton Rouge Eboni D. Clay, Zachary Latoya M. Decuir, Baton Rouge Jessica Dennis, Baton Rouge Kianna G. Frank, Alexandria Kimberly D. Henderson, Baton Rouge Joi A. Legard, Baton Rouge Israel A. Moore, Baton Rouge Devin J. Whitney, Metairie
HONOR GRADUATES MAGNA CUM LAUDE Cumulative Grade-point Average of 3.70 – 3.85 Vaterra Calais Joyner Deamer Desirae George-McCool Chloe Preston Chacity Simmons Melanie Walker CUM LAUDE Cumulative Grade-point Average of 3.40 -3.69 Melody Byrd Patrick Cadoret Dineshia Coleman Paige Hall Tyler Henderson Cornelius Jackson Shandrika Jones Khaliyah Keller Anthony Kenney Kobie Lain Joi Legard Oscar McClain Israel Moore Jalilah Muhammad Marshall L. Muse Jaylen Scott Jamilah Stith Taija Stoner-Harris Myles Tilford Adam Trahan Christian Washington Christina Williams Paris Willoughby Destiny Wilson HONORABLE MENTION Cumulative Grade-point Average of 3.00 -3.339 Irvin Arellano Tiffany Armstrong Chelsie Brown Ariel Burrell Trinidee Carter Alison Chi Shauntiana Colton Destinee Delahoussaye David Deloach Kassirer Dunn Abby Farias Chiandria Ferguson Cameron Fontenot Symphony Foster Brandon Foster Simone Garrett Latrina Gibson Jala Gray Quintin Hall Michelle Harris Benjamin Harris Marcus Hill Arvin Huff
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Breanna Hulbert Jason Ivey Lakeshmi Jackson Troi Jefferson Tra’Me Jones Tori Joseph Jasmin Julien Maya Kleinpeter Minica Knox Kevonne Landry Nicole LaRue Jared Menson Jennay Mitchell Paige Mitchell Tamisha Molden A’Yanna Muigua Alexandria Nelson Shalyndria Parker Alexis Perkins Kayla Peterson Simone Pillette Victoria Price Eric Reynolds Peronica Riley Crystal Robertson Cayln Scott Alyse Shelton Brittany Sims Joneisha Smith Jovanie Smith Darby Smith Malik Smith Bria Thomas Eric Thompson Ashley Torres Whitney Webster Devin Whitney Sade Williams Harold Zachary Summer Graduates - * SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY GRADUATE SCHOOL CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES Spring 2019 DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY Environmental Toxicology Avinash Kumar, Sonebhadra, India Dissertation Title: Methionine Attenuates Hepatic Oxidative Stress and Fibrosis in Hybercholesterolemia with and without Sitagliptin Major Professor: S. N. Murthy, Ph.D. Rashmi Pathak, Lucknow, India Dissertation Title: Effects of DPP-4 Inhibitors on Hepatic Inflammation in Rats Fed Atherogenic Diets Major Professor: S. N. Murthy, Ph.D.
SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS EDUCATION Ingrid Lorelei Jomento Cruz, Baton Rouge Dissertation Title: Impact of Educational Robotics in Promoting Critical Thinking Skills of Middle School
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Students Major Professor: Albertha Lawson, Ph.D. Valerie Louise Epps, Baton Rouge Dissertation Title: A Study of the Effects of Differentiated Instructional Strategies with Rigor on Below Average Student Achievement in the Algebra II Classroom and their Attitudes Toward Mathematics Major Professor: Christopher Guillory, Ph.D. John Allen Jenkins, Baton Rouge Dissertation Title: An Analysis of Athletics, African-American Male Students, and STEM Academic Achievement in At-Risk Public High Schools Major Professor: Albertha Lawson, Ph.D. Gregory Louis Thompson, Baker Dissertation Title: A Comparison of Laboratory Experiments and Traditional Lecturing as an Introductory Method in Physics Major Professor: Francesca Mellion-Williams, Ph.D. PUBLIC POLICY Teaway Zehyoue Collins, Denham Springs Dissertation Title: A Case Study of the Impact of Civil War on the Economic Development of Liberia Major Professor: Onyumbe Ben Lukongo, Ph.D. Ucheoma Nwagbara, Baton Rouge Dissertation Title: Investigating the Relationship Between Health and Economic Growth in Africa 1960-2015 Major Professor: Onyumbe Ben Lukongo, Ph.D. Bukola Bolude Oluwade, Nigeria, Africa Dissertation Title: Examination of Maternal Mortality in Military Civilian Administration in Nigeria, 1960-2015. A Case Study. Major Professor: Onyumbe Ben Lukongo, Ph.D. URBAN FORESTRY Ansel TraMaine Rankins, Baton Rouge Dissertation Title: Impacts of Cyclic Flooding on Three Urban Tree Species at Different CO2 Settings Major Professor: Zhu Ning, Ph.D. Betty Jean Stewart Whicker, Baton Rouge Dissertation Title: Assessment of North Baton Rouge School Teacher’s Receptiveness to Integrating Urban Forestry Education Components into Teaching Curriculum and Practice Major Professor: Kamran Abdollahi, Ph.D. MASTERS OF ARTS CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING Brittany Marie Allen, Baton Rouge Keiquantyana K.J. Bibbins, Baton Rouge Stephenne D. Brady Calhoun, Gonzales Espranda Francois, Baton Rouge Arteikia Oceianna Harrell, Baton Rouge (participation only) Detrica Shropshire Freeman, Baton Rouge (participation only)
LaResha Shonea’ Gilmore, Baton Rouge Porshe Shar-Dae Hitchens, Clinton Nedra Patrice Joseph, Baton Rouge Ashli Alfreda Savoy King, Lafayette Lakeith Tawain Lewis, Baton Rouge Danielle Rebecca Russell, Baton Rouge MASTERS OF ART IN TEACHING Janae N. Babineaux, Baton Rouge SOCIAL SCIENCES HISTORY Brooklin Alaine Baker, Baton Rouge Christopher Lyne Caffery, Alexandria Jessica Bintu Marie Lawal, Baton Rouge Thesis Title: Johnnie Jones and the Evolution of the Civil Rights Movement in Baton Rouge, 1950-1980 Thesis Advisor: Don Hernandez, Ph.D. LaKeisha Ronte’ Turner, Baker POLITICAL SCIENCE Ki-Jana Jamel Curtis, Houma MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Sydney L. Andrews, Baton Rouge Erica Byrd Williams, Baton Rouge (participation only) Desmond Demond Chase, Baton Rouge (participation only) Christopher Ray Hilliard, Baton Rouge Morgan Chelsey Harden Hilliard, Baton Rouge La’Quintha Monet Newman, Baton Rouge (participation only) Sam J. Parker, New Orleans Kentavius Mikale Preston, Baton Rouge Jualea Hernandez Smith, Baton Rouge Tre Steven Sullivan, Donalsonville Jaymeon Roshawn Thomas, Baton Rouge Quitney Raynard Toussaint, Baton Rouge Darius Jashawn Vaughan, Baton Rouge Setarah Jenae Washington, Baton Rouge Gideon Woodson-Levey, Baton Rouge (participation only)
MASTER OF EDUCATION EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP Rose Krystal Bailey Britten, Denham Springs Kenneth Adrian Dangerfield, Baton Rouge Jarvis DeMarco Johnson, Denham Springs Anthony Gerald Jones, Baton Rouge (participation only) Dadrius Cordell Lanus, Baton Rouge DeQuincey R. Matthews, Clinton Ladetrick Denise Provo, Baton Rouge(participation only) Brian Keith Simmons, New Orleans Cedric A. Todd, Baker Jonas Owen Vanderbilt, New Iberia (participation only) Kenyetta P. Washington, Clinton (participation only) Alann’ Wicker, Baton Rouge Clydeisha Tion Wyatt, Baton Rouge MASTER OF ENGINEERING John Zachary Parker, Greenwell Springs
Spring 2019 Graduates southerndigest.com
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Joshua Rashaud Simms, Zachary MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Obinna Stanley Adimorah, Baton Rouge Briana Keishon Augustus, Baton Rouge Eunice Elaine Bethley, Baton Rouge Patra Patrice Buchanan, Gonzales Taylor Marie Dampeer, Townsend, DE Raenesha Je’Nee Green, Baton Rouge Joseph Jones, Baton Rouge Megan Jenell Lawrence, Thibodaux Brittany Noelle Roberson, Baton Rouge Courtney Cierra Walker, Baton Rouge Gabrielle Nicole Williams, Baton Rouge Darrell Keith Cummings, Jr., Baton Rouge EXECUTIVE MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Cristal Rayshall Allen, Baton Rouge (participation only) Girlie Brown Anderson, Port Allen Ashley Nicole Baptiste, Alexandria Shaquille K. Dillon, Franklinton Derrin Kendall Gaines, LaPlace Rhondie Lamar Morris, Tallulah (participation only) Tallya T. Reaux, Denham Springs MASTER OF SCIENCE BIOLOGY Candace Jonte’ Allen, White Castle Italy Jermaine Hayes, Baton Rouge Myron Alexander Holden, Baton Rouge Demario Dwayne Vallier, Lafayette Thesis Title: The Role of Resveratrol in Inducing Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in 3D Cultures of Prostate Cancer Cells Thesis Advisor: Xiaoping Yi, Ph.D. COMPUTER SCIENCE Sreethika Reddy Aerva, Baton Rouge Sirisha Alla, India Hariharanath Reddy Annem, India Kruthi Meghana Anumandla, India Katohoua God’s Will Bobuin, Baton Rouge Marqual J’wan Battley-Brown, Ventress Thesis Title: A Security Application Using Motion Sensor and Camera Thesis Advisor: Ebrahim Khosravi, Ph.D. Isaac Nwachukwu Chimeka, Nigeria Rohit Varma Dandu, Baton Rouge Xuhang Gu, China Thesis Title: Development and Implementation of Algorithms for Lightning Data Matching and Location Calculation Thesis Advisor: Ebrahim Khosravi, Ph.D. Abhinav Kagithapu, India Muhammed Esad Oztemel, Turkey Thesis Title: Detection of Intrusion Through Utilizing Machine Learning Algorithms Thesis Advisor: Mohammed A. Salam, Ph.D.
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Surya Veera Reddy Sirigireddy, India Thesis Title: Detection and Analysis of Facial Features in Browser and Desktop Thesis Advisor: Sudhir Trivedi Ph.D. Mylan B. Williams, Baton Rouge Thesis Title: Smart Education Application for Interactive, Adaptive and Connected Student Learning Environment Thesis Advisor: Nigel Gwee, Ph.D. CRIMINAL JUSTICE Travis R. Bonaventure, Baton Rouge James Lamar Clark, Baton Rouge DeNay R. Hawkins, Baton Rouge India L. John, Baton Rouge DaQuwan La’Trentin Mark, Baton Rouge LaDetha Michelle Gilmore McKneely, Zachary Shamaya Tashi Stewart, Baton Rouge Laisha Nicole Webb, Zachary EXECUTIVE MASTERS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE Jo-nay M. Brown, Baton Rouge Shandrolette Burrell, Baton Rouge Sharon Renee Benson Fields-Lair, Boyce Shundreka Damterrica Johnson, Monroe Falysia Channel Tate Kilbourne, Baker Casey Nicole Semien, Baton Rouge Dorothy Jean Young White, St. Francisville MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS Ashalynn Briann Davis, Paulina Ashton Tracy Gauff, Zachary Janica Natasha Gordon, Marrero Thesis Title: Ab-Initio Computations of Electronic, Transport, and Related Properties of Cadmium Selenide (CdSe) Thesis Advisor: Diola Bagayoko, Ph.D. Southern University System Distinguished Professor of Physics MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING Miosha Sutherland Bailey, Sorrento LaToya Monique Barnes, Baton Rouge Shambrel Nicole Patterson Bates, Gonzales Courtney Ericka Williams Beason, Addis Courtney Tameesha Breaud, Baton Rouge Christie Nichole Dykes Cooper, Hammond Barrett Andrew Dixon, Pride Brittany Nicole Dixon, Baton Rouge Ashley Alicia Escoe, Baton Rouge Eddricka Rachelle Fleming, Baton Rouge Ariel Shiante Hill, Baton Rouge Aaron Quentin Hunt, Opelousas Y’Mine Michael McClanahan, Baton Rouge Monique Louise McCleery, Baton Rouge Hailey McManus Murphy, Walker Whitley Jovita Rogers, Baton Rouge Lakeva Marie Percy, Baton Rouge Christopher Barrett Staggers, Baton Rouge Stephanie Kabel Turner, Denham Springs Dorecia Le’Shon Wright, Zachary
REHABILITATION COUNSELING Paul Genco, New Orleans Kristyn Arielle Osborne, White Castle Jontell Jai’Riel Lockett, Hahnville (participation only) Maghan Samone Eugene, Destrehan (participation only) SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY Avery Clare Bernard, New Iberia Crystal Ann Briseno, Baton Rouge Ameliah Brooke Payne Cooper, Franklinton Aiden Celeste Genovese, Hammond Shariah Britise Green, Sugar Land, TX Laticia Kenyotta Johnson, Zachary Easha Merlissa Anatole Joseph, Houston, TX Baileigh Alexis Landrum, New Orleans Alexis Dominique Morrow, Pearland, TX Shauntel Dawn Saunders, Baton Rouge Maria Christie Sebastien, Baton Rouge Aleisha Marie Spears, Plaquemine Eboni Nicole Thompson, Baton Rouge Sydney Claire Welch, Oscar Cecily Cymone Williams, Baton Rouge THERAPEUTIC RECREATION Asheal Hawkins, Port Allen (participation only) Joyce C. Hawkins, Port Allen URBAN FORESTRY Stephanie M. Elwood, Baton Rouge Thesis Title: Gardening and Positive Behavior Change for Adjudicated and Incarcerated Youth in Louisiana Thesis Advisor: Yemane Ghebreiyessus, Ph.D. Omosola Charles Omoyele, Nigeria, Africa Thesis Title: Effect of Artificial Herbivory and Soil Fertility on Chinese Tallow Performance in Louisiana Thesis Advisor: Veronica Manrique, Ph.D.
JOB WELL DONE! Wishing you much success in the future! Congratulations on your accomplishments! GO JAGS - Southern University Office of Student Media
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Senior Spotlight- Wilner Elise, Jr. Najeri Evans
The Southern Digest
May 10 marks Southern’s graduation for the class of 2019. Of those graduating, there are many who stand out in the crowd. Wilner Elise Jr. is a graduating senior from New Orleans, majoring in business management with a concentration in supply chain. Also a member of the Alpha Sigma chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity incorporated, Elise has excelled as a first generation college student. Initially wanting to attend University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), he made the decision to enroll at Southern University one week before his high school graduation. Elise remarks, “I feel like that decision made me who I am today and I would never change that decision… I’m really happy I did come to a HBCU.” Within his four years, Wilner has also been involved with the supply chain club, the finance club, and EEO (Enactus Entrepreneurial Organization). Outside of school, Elise owns a clothing line, Too Much Sauce, LLC. Originally founded in February of 2015, he defines his line as high end street fashion. Inspired by artists such as Future, Drake, Fabulous, and Kanye, Wilner is a big fan of both art and fashion. Experimenting with colors like olive, maroon, and orange, Wilner says fashion is a way of expression. “If I walk in a room, I could not say a word, but I could still say about 1000 words by just presenting myself.” With plans to return to Southern for his MBA in marketing, Elise says his education has helped him with his business on a more formal level. Originally an accounting major, he changed his major after his first class. From there, his brand set the tone, and his classes worked around it. He explains how the understanding of raw materials was supported through his classes, while
Courtesy/Wilner Elise, Jr.
being hands-on with his brand helped get a better grasp on how to market, as far as assets and profit line-up go. Wilner shares words for those with passions similar to his own, “Have real meaning behind whatever you’re trying to produce.” He advises others not to sell themselves short, stressing the importance of achievement, “... always strive to be the best.” Speaking of his own goals, he aspires to reach a level of recognition for his work comparable to Off-white and Supreme.
A look at 2018-19 in review Najeri Evans
The Southern Digest
As spring graduation nears, now is the perfect time to reflect on the academic year for student of Southern University. Beginning the fall semester in mid-August, students returned to renovations being made in Hayden Hall. Commonly known as the art building, the Exhibit space was upgraded to start the year off. Not far from campus, Southern Grind Cofé was introduced to the student body as a home away from home. It became a space that students, and the community, utilized for poetry slams, open mic nights, a study lounge, etc... Finishing off September, an International Fashion Show Extravaganza was hosted by the Honors Student Association along with the Department of International Affairs. More than 15 different countries’ style was on display, which made for a well-rounded, and diverse show. Typically one of the most excitable weeks of the fall semester, was Homecoming week. The week was filled with different events for students to engage in. With celebrity appearances by Avant, Moneybagg Yo, and Yo Gotti, the concert took the cake. The comedy show also had a large turn-out with performances by Spencer Neal, King Keraun, DLai, and Warren Brand. Magnifying Southern’s alumnus, two released books were made available to the public. Former football player Calvin Mills Jr. released “No Secrets to Elevation” and T.G.C. Binx published “At the Roots.” Competing against Grambling, Southern’s football team won the trophy at Bayou Classic in November. The band also triumphed in the Battle of the Bands. A Greek show and Fan Fest were among additional
entertainment over the Bayou Classic weekend. Making tribute to two fallen Southern students, a Family and Consumer Sciences Design class created wedding dresses out of newspapers which were on display in the library. One of the oldest groups on campus, Southern University Gospel Choir (SUGC) turned 50 this year. Founded in 1969, the choir performs at school events, as well as different conferences at colleges in the nation. Something along the likes of “College Hill,” a retired reality show on Southern’s campus, was recreated by a group of students. They titled it, “Over the Hump,” and released episodes on YouTube. The show has just over 100 subscribers on the platform, and features a handful of students in each episode, surrounding college life on the bluff. Following Mardi Gras, Spring Fest marked the homecoming of spring semester. Similar to homecoming week, it was filled with various events for students to attend. For the concert, artists DaniLeigh, Summer Walker, Gunna, and Kodak Black took the stage. D.C. Young Fly returned for the comedy show, along with acts by Money Bag Mafia, Precious Hall, and Smokey Suarez. A crawfish boil, Zydeco Fest, and Greek show also took place throughout the week. The academic year ended soon after with a delayed spring break, and shortly after finals. Southern University has added yet another year of eventful occasions, and celebrations for students and alumni alike to be proud about. Looking back at the year, much good has happened for graduating seniors as a farewell to their undergraduate years.
After graduation, Elise will be interning with IBM for SAP (sales, applications, and products). He hopes to soon after begin a career as an entry-level SAP functionalist. In 10 years time, Wilner hopes to be “well established”, with his Master’s and a few different businesses, his ultimate goal being retirement at 35. Support Wilner Elise Jr. and Too Much Sauce LLC on Instagram at tmsclothing_ and Twitter @ TMSclothingLLC.
ROBOTICS AND SENSORS SUMMER CAMP SU DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE WILL BE HOSTING A SUMMER ROBOTICS CAMP IN JUNE, 2019. STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES, IN ROBOTICS AND SENSORS, DESIGNED TO PREPARE THEM TO CONDUCT QUALITY RESEARCH IN THEIR STUDIES AND IN THEIR CAREERS. STUDENTS ARE ALSO INVOLVED IN MANY FUN ACTIVITIES, INCLUDING GUIDED TOURS OF OUR SCIENTIFIC LABS AND OFFCAMPUS FIELD TRIPS. HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ONLY: JUNE 3 - JUNE 14, 9AM - 3:30PM APPLICATION DEADLINE MAY 15TH. APPLY AT WWW.SUBR.EDU/NEWS/ ROBOTICS-CAMP
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Tuesday, May 7, 2019 - Page 11
What really makes a great SU Review: The 2018commencement speaker? 2019 School Year in a nutshell Leah Williams
The Southern Digest
Time and time again, people see big names giving graduation speeches, like Chance the Rapper or Denzel Washington, and think, “Why can’t we get them or someone like that to speak at Southern?” Don’t get me wrong, it would be AMAZING to get an Obama to come speak at Southern, but a big name isn’t the only thing that defines a good commencement speaker. First and foremost, a good commencement speaker needs to relate to the students. This is one of the biggest objectives since the occasion is to celebrate the students’ achievement. If a speaker can really relate to the students, then it’s more likely that the students will listen and take any advice that is offered by the speaker. Giving advice somewhere in the speech is also very important. Unfortunately, many students, especially first generation graduates, are lost after graduation. A lot of us, including myself, need help with finding some sense of direction when entering this
thing called adulthood. I have an amazing support system that can relate to me and give me good advice and guidance, but everyone doesn’t have that same advantage. So, even though not all of the students will take the advice given, it is soooo important for us to at least get that advice from someone that we can relate to. Lastly, rambling can be such a huge problem. This is supposed to be one of the most exciting days of our lives. Graduates are so excited and so anxious that all of their hard work paid off and they get to walk across that stage. None of them want to hear a speech that just goes on and on about the same thing. Speeches shouldn’t necessarily be kept short, but some speakers have issues with getting to the point and moving on to their next point. Obviously, there’s no way to satisfy everyone with the speech. But, if the speaker is at least able to inspire a handful of graduates, or even friends and family members in the audience, I think they’ve done an effective job.
Farewell my dear Southern University Leah Williams
The Southern Digest
I knew college graduation was coming soon, but it still feels like it just snuck up on me. It’s almost as if graduation came too soon, but simultaneously not soon enough. As I’m finishing up my last few classes of my undergraduate years, I just can’t believe that this new chapter of my life is about to begin. I’m almost in shock, but I’m so excited for the new direction that my life will soon be going in. I’ve pretty much been in school my whole almost 22 years of life. School is really all I’ve ever known. I’m not a graduating senior just yet, but my time is coming in only THREE months. Just eight weeks of summer school and I’ll be at the finish line. But, graduating one semester late isn’t too bad for a transfer student. It’s a weird feeling. Everyone is always excited for this time to come, but I just don’t know how to feel. It’s relieving knowing that I won’t have to worry about registration, midterms and finals, anxiously awaiting for final grades to be posted, or stress from classes. Life always comes with stress, but least if I’m stressing at work I’m getting paid for it. It’s truly exciting to almost have all of this behind me, but it’s scary too not knowing exactly what’s next. When in school, you schedule your classes, so you
know what’s next and what to expect. I have no idea where this new chapter of life will take me, but I know that wherever it takes me I will work hard to be successful. As a mass communication major, people outside the department wouldn’t know what we had to go through to get here. But, we all struggled together and made it through. I’ve had sooo many great memories and met some lifelong friends here at THEE Southern University and A&M College. College is so stressful no matter what your major is. So, to anyone who isn’t graduating, please focus on enjoying the good parts of college while you still can because as you get closer to graduation, your social life starts to go out the window. To my family and friends, I thank you all for being with me every step of the way through this journey. To Southern University, even though it hasn’t been all good, thank you for teaching me so many life lessons and, most importantly, for giving me the ability to handle ANYTHING life throws at me. Congrats to the Spring, Summer and Fall classes of 2019! I wish everyone the best as we prepare to enter into the entry level world, graduate school, and wherever else life takes everyone! Leah Williams, SIGNING OUT!
Leah Williams
The Southern Digest
Throughout this entire school year Southern has been absolutely flourishing, but what’s new? Southern has been a premiere HBCU for decades. We might’ve have fell off for a while, but the often imitated, never duplicated Southern we know is definitely on it’s way back like it never left. The year started off with a back to school party that might not have gone as planned, but it really showed how students wanted to participate in on campus events this year. Most students weren’t able to get in, but it seemed like hundreds of students were outside of the party trying to get in. Athletics SHOWED OUT this year. Majority of the teams, from the football team to the bowling team, had great seasons. A year full of winning athletic seasons was such a huge highlight for the university this year. They might not be an athletic team, but the quiz bowl team had a good year as well. They qualified for the National Championship Tournament in California and we’re able to compete with other quiz bowl teams from all around the country. The drama club also made a big comeback this school year with multiple amazing productions like Topdog/Underdog by Suzan-Lori
Parks in the Fall, and Gruesome Playground Injuries by Rajiv Joseph in the Spring. A HUGE thing that happened this semester is the opening of the Jaguar Eats food pantry in the Union. It hasn’t been opened long and it’s already a huge success. Most of the organizations on campus hosted community service events around the city as usual. This is sooo important to give back to the community even if it’s a small event. There were even new events hosted by different campus organizations like a vision board party, an all girls brunch, and a trail ride. Financial aid and class registration were a headache as always this year, but the university is working to change that with the new registration process. Last but definitely not least, Beyoncé shouted us out in Homecoming, which is cool. It was only a few second clip, but it’s always good to have your school showcased on an international streamed service, and it might even help our enrollment go up even more. Which it seems to already be pretty high among the incoming freshmen class. With so much going on daily at Southern, obviously I can go on for days about the many great things that have happened at Southern this semester. Overall, this year has been a GREAT year to be a Jaguar.
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