The Battalion: June 26, 2018

TUESDAY, JUNE 26 | SERVING TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893 | © 2018 STUDENT MEDIA

AGGIE PRIDE

on pg. 5

Reveille VIII passes pg. 2 Hurricane readiness on pg. 3 Sexual misconduct cases on pg. 4

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

ANSWERS

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The Battalion | 6.26.18

Reveille VIII passes

to todays puzzles

Former ‘First Lady of Aggieland’ dies at age 12

Taylor Fennell, Editor in Chief THE BATTALION is published every other Tuesday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843. Offices are in Suite L400 of the Memorial Student Center. Newsroom phone: 979-845-3315; E-mail: editor@ thebatt.com; website: http://www.thebatt. com. For campus, local, and national display advertising call 979-845-2687. For classified advertising, call 979-845-0569.

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By Taylor Fennell @taylorpaige1299

C. Morgan Engel -- THE BATTALION

Reveille VIII served as the “First Lady of Aggieland” from August 2008 to May 2015.

Online parking permit registration ENDS July 11

Former Texas A&M mascot and “First Lady of Aggieland” Reveille VIII passed away at age 12 on June 25.

Reveille VIII, who served as the university’s mascot from August 2008 to May 2015, became ill early Saturday morning, June 23, according to a press release from A&M. She was taken to the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for treatment. A final diagnosis of Reveille VIII’s illness has not been released as of print.

According to the press release, Dr. Stacy Eckman, a veterinarian in the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, said Reveille VIII remained well-behaved in her condition.

“The critical care team and the internal medicine

team that cared for her most recently did everything they could to find out what was going on and keep her as comfortable as possible,” Eckman said. “She was quite the lady. I went by to see her Sunday night in ICU and she was just like she always was — just such a good dog.”

During his transition into mascot corporal in 2015, Ian Moss, Class of 2018, took care of Reveille VIII for three weeks. He told The Battalion that the loss of the former mascot is especially difficult for the Mascot Company, E-2, in the Corps of Cadets.

“Rev VIII served amazingly as Reveille — couldn’t ask for a better dog, more loyal, more loving,” Moss said. “It breaks my heart to hear that, but she served her time, she definitely had a great life. I know the Company E-2 took great care of her. We’re all mourning her, we’re gonna miss her for sure.”

Reveille VIII will be buried on the north side of Kyle Field. Burial proceedings have not been announced.

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Congratulations to Gnet Acosta,

Grounds Associate of the Month

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Transportation Services

Associates who receive this award are recognized for going above and beyond their normal duties to promote teamwork, unity, a positive attitude, kindness and exceptional customer service.

Thank you, Gnet, for all your hard work and dedication to the Grounds 970 Crew!

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The Battalion | 6.26.18

Mason Rackley — THE BATTALION

Stephen Bjune is part of Texas Task Force 1, a search and rescue team which operates under Texas A&M University’s engineering extension.

Texas Task Force 1 prepares for upcoming hurricane season A&M-sponsored rescue team gets ready for hurricane season, potential next Harvey

By Mason Rackley @writes_good Texas Task Force (TX-TF1), an elite urban search and rescue team, is preparing to rescue civilians in extreme hurricane conditions.

The task force prepares for hurricane season with intense training and a cache of sophisticated search-and-rescue tools.

The team, which operates under the Texas A&M University engineering extension, assists disaster relief efforts across the nation and can operate self-sufficiently for 72 hours. Chancellor John Sharp said that for all the work TX-TF1 does, they go surprisingly unnoticed.

“It is an amazing group of men and women who do an amazing amount of work for the people of Texas, and almost nobody knows about them,” Sharp said. “It’s very frustrating to me that everybody doesn’t know that they’re being rescued by a bunch of Aggies.”

Since its inception in 1997, TX-TF1 has been deployed at disasters such as the Aggie bonfire collapse, the 9/11 attacks and Hurricane Katrina, according to Sharp.

“When Hurricane Sandy hits, who’s the first team to go to

New York? Task Force 1,” Sharp said.

The team is equipped to respond to any disaster, but according to task force member Josh Varner, their work tends to be focused heavily on responding to hurricanes.

“We have a variety of things we respond to; hurricanes, tornadoes, structural collapse,” Varner said. “With the Texas coast and the hurricanes coming up through the gulf, that’s a big part of what we do.”

After joining the team in 2008, Varner immediately went to work on the search-and-rescue efforts for hurricanes Ike and Omar. Varner is a hazmat specialist for TX-TF1 and said the team is comprised of all manners of rescue specialists, including K-9 units, medics and fire rescue.

With hurricane season approaching, helicopter search and rescue specialist Brian Winchell advises Aggies to exercise caution when driving during storm conditions.

“One common mistake that we see in general is people trying to drive through flooded roadways or an area they drive through normally that’s covered by water,” Winchell said. “I think what people fail to realize is that it doesn’t matter how big your vehicle is, six to 12 inches of moving water across a roadway is enough to float a vehicle and get it swept downstream.”

According to Winchell, following the National Weather Service’s advice of “turn around, don’t drown” is key to staying safe during a hurricane.

“The roadway may not be intact,” Winchell said. “If there’s water rushing across a roadway, we all assume ‘hey, I can make it across, there’s not that much water,’ but we’re assuming that the road bed is intact. All that water can carve parts of the roads away. So you go in and drop a tire off one side and all of a sudden you’re sitting on top of a floating vehicle, waiting for someone to pick you up.”

TX-TF1 is prepared to save lives during the upcoming hurricane season, but Varner explained there are things the citizens of College Station can do to prevent themselves from needing a rescue.

“We have a large student population that may have family that lives along the coast,” Varner said. “Make sure you know where they’re going, and that you have contact information and a plan. Make sure you know who’s going to be where, and make sure they know where you’re going to be during the event itself. Make sure that you’re proactive in getting provisions and fuel.”

Varner said he and the other members of TX-TF1 are proud to be able to help Texans through disaster.

“At the end of the day it’s about serving others; feeling fulfilled by making a difference in somebody’s life, making it a little bit easier, even if it’s just helping the local responders to get what they need,” Varner said.

For more hurricane safety tips and information on TX-TF1, visit texastaskforce1.org.

NEWS

The Battalion | 6.26.18

SPEAKING UP, SEEKING

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The Battalion | 6.26.18

A unique sense of

Aggies march, show support for LGBT community at Pride

CHANGE

By Taylor Fennell @taylorpaige1299

University administration investigates sexual misconduct cases as survivors tell their stories

By Taylor Fennell & Kenya Robinson @taylorpaige1299 & @_KenyaJ Texas A&M University began facing backlash regarding its sexual misconduct investigation procedures after survivors took to social media to voice concerns about the way the university investigates its cases.

Hannah Shaw, biomedical sciences senior, tweeted a screenshot of an email from Senior Associate Athletic Director Lori Williams on June 7, in which Williams writes that she regrets Shaw’s “displeasure with the perceived impact” about her reported rapist being allowed back on the university swim team. Since then, the tweet has received over 39,000 likes and attention from national media outlets. Survivors joined Shaw by telling their stories of sexual misconduct and the university’s investigation process.

According to the conduct letter Shaw posted on Twitter, her reported perpetrator was found responsible of sexual abuse and received

a suspension from A&M for the fall 2016 semester, conduct probation for one semester upon re-enrollment and a mandatory meeting with a staff member from the Consensual Language, Education, Awareness and Relationships (CLEAR) office. He swam on the Texas A&M men’s swimming team in 2017-18.

The A&M Athletics department and Title IX coordinator denied a request for comment.

The university’s statement released on June 11 said sanctions are chosen on a case-by-case basis and outlined the investigation process guidelines.

“Students found responsible for sexual misconduct are given sanctions, which may include suspension and/or dismissal,” the statement said. “Usually students who are suspended return on a probationary status and have additional requirements to perform.

If performed then student privileges are reinstated unless of course further misconduct occurs.”

Sydney Whigam, Class of 2017, said she was treated fairly by university officials during

her sexual assault case investigation, in which her perpetrator was found responsible for 13 of 15 counts of assault and was expelled.

“I was thankful and rejoicing that A&M had my back,” Whigam said. “I really wasn’t met with much resistance and A&M 110 percent had my back and listened to what I had to say.”

Whigam said she is disappointed to hear that other survivors’ reported perpetrators are not given fair sanctions. She called this an inconsistency on the university’s part.

“When all these stories came out, I felt really guilty,” Whigam said. “I wanted to call them and say, ‘Let him back in school.

Like if you’re going to let all of these other girls walk in fear every day, why didn’t you pick me? Why was I the one that got justice when you’re not going to play it fair across the board?’ As someone who’s gone through one of the most horrific things, I shouldn’t carry that guilt. I shouldn’t be thinking, ‘Oh why me? Why did I get justice?’”

In response to the public outcry, A&M

President Michael K. Young released a statement saying the university is discussing how to improve policies regarding sexual misconduct cases. As part of this effort, two groups of investigators will be looking into the process to ensure it protects students. The external review team, Husch Blackwell LLP, led a similar review at Michigan State University in November 2017, the same month Larry Nassar pleaded guilty to 10 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct.

“I have ordered comprehensive reviews to be conducted — one by an independent third-party; the other by an internal task force — that will test every step of our processes for safety, support, sensitivity, timeliness and fairness to all involved that meets the highest standards,” the statement said.

Young said the university is accepting suggestions about how the university can improve. Feedback can be emailed to feedback@ tamu.edu.

Photos by Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

Top: Over 50 Aggies walked together in the Pride Parade with the Texas A&M GLBT Resource Center. Left: Reeci Herrera and university studies sophomore Jordan Doria represent Texas A&M by wearing their rainbow Reveille t-shirts. Right: As the Aggies walked in the parade, a former student flashed her Aggie Ring and yelled, “Gig ‘Em.”

In Texas A&M University’s second official Pride festival and parade, Aggies showed up to support each other and demonstrate the values of the Aggie Family.

Pride Houston, a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals, saw thousands of attendees flood the downtown streets on Saturday.

Current and former A&M students and their families proudly participated in the festival, with over 50 Aggies marching in the evening parade.

The GLBT Resource Center at A&M had one of the many booths lining the streets of Houston, where former students informed Aggies of the upcoming LGBTQ & Ally Reunion and Tailgate on Nov. 10. Andrew Reichert, Class of 1990, volunteered at the booth and said it was nice to help out the university that has come so far since he attended.

“It feels like A&M has really changed and moved forward in a lot of positive ways when it comes to acceptance, equality and freedom,” Reichert said.

“The opportunity for me to volunteer to sit at this booth and watch Pride go back and forth is really refreshing to do.”

Evan Rutledge, chemistry senior, said Aggies show up to Pride because it is an opportunity to demonstrate their values in a different setting.

“It really exemplifies the family and 12th Man idea of A&M because you get to see people here showing so much love and support for everyone else,” Rutledge said. “It’s all about love and what Aggies are all about.”

Bobby Brooks, Class of 2018 and A&M’s first openly gay student body president, said former students can play an important role in Pride.

“I think what’s so important for being involved with Pride, as a former student, is making sure that support remains there for the current students,” Brooks said.

“I’m glad to be here to offer that support.

You can get through college. You can survive and get your degree. Then you can still be involved in supporting and helping people grow.”

Brooks said Pride is a celebration of the LGBT community’s strength, a virtue which was tested when he was approached by protesters at the festival.

“Earlier today I had to walk by a man who was yelling with a bullhorn in my ear,” Brooks said. “This man was yelling things at me, telling me my lifestyle, who I am as a person, who I was born as, is invalid and that it wasn’t good. I had to walk through that and it took some emotional restraint because I made sure I stared ahead. I didn’t want to engage him. So Pride for me is being able to enjoy the fact that I’m strong enough to get through those moments. We’re collectively strong enough to get through those moments and we’re better off for it.”

Jack Drewniak, engineering sophomore, said events with the LGBT community of A&M provide them a unique sense of pride, which they prefer over traditional Aggie events.

“This is my Aggie pride,” Drewniak said. “Aggie pride is being here with everyone. It means a lot more to me to be at the GLBT center and going to events rather than going to football games and things like that. It’s my kind of pride. I’m proud to be an Aggie, but I’m proud of who I am too.”

GUESTCOLUMN

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A Community of Support An explanation of Texas A&M’s fundraising organizations Tyson Voelkel

H

@TysonVoelkel

owdy Ags! This month, I’d like to break down a topic I often get asked about: Why are there so many fundraising organizations affiliated with Texas A&M University?

The simple answer is that a massive institution like Texas A&M requires a lot of private support from individuals and corporations to continue operations, as state funding mainly “keeps the lights on.” To be a truly world-class university, there are five different fundraising entities with affiliated agreements designed to support Texas A&M. Texas A&M Foundation An independent 501(c)3, the Texas A&M Foundation has the honor and privilege of raising major gifts from corporations, individuals and other organizations. The Foundation also manages a $2 billion endowment and invests those funds for the benefit of Texas A&M. The endowment is designed to last in perpetuity and funds thousands of student scholarships, hundreds of faculty chairs and programs, and infrastructure needs for the university. Donors to the Foundation can direct their gifts and create programs or scholarships based on their passions. The Foundation manages more than 8,000 different accounts and processes more than 45,000 transactions a year. Learn more at txamfoundation. com.

Association of Former Students As the university’s oldest alumni support organization, The Association of Former Students raises the university’s annual fund, which supports both current and former student activities, academics and traditions. You may have noticed Century Club car decals, which recognize Aggies who give at least $100 each year to the annual fund. Whenever I travel, I look for these decals and am greeted with honking horns and a friendly “Gig ’em” from fellow Aggies. The Association also brings former students together through class reunions, 252 A&M Clubs and 11 constituent networks. As a model for alumni

associations around the country, The Association proudly ensures the Aggie Network is vibrant through programs, local engagement of A&M Clubs and its commitment to telling the Aggie story so that our values are preserved. Learn more at aggienetwork.com.

12th Man Foundation Formed in 1950, the 12th Man Foundation supports Texas A&M athletics.

From scholarships for student athletes to fundraising for facilities, this organization provides support to every Texas A&M athletic team. The Foundation also manages ticket sales and ensures athletic teams have the best possible amenities and opportunities to succeed on and off the field. Learn more at 12thmanfoundation.com.

Corps of Cadets Association The Corps of Cadets Association was formed in 1993 and raises money and awareness for the Corps. The organization helps fund various quality of life programs that include Corps intramural teams, unit functions, senior dining in and other activities for its members.

Learn more at corpsofcadets.org.

George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation is dedicated to preserving the historic legacy of President George H.W. Bush by supporting education and scholarship programs. Donors can support the extraordinary legacy of President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush and contribute to the noble calling of public service. Learn more at bush41.org.

Each organization serves a different purpose, but at the end of the day, we all work together to improve the Texas A&M community. We are honored to engage with donors who have such a deep and rich culture of giving back to our beloved university. I hope that one day, should you wish to give back to Aggieland, you have the chance to interact with one or more of us.

Thanks and Gig ’em!

If you have any questions for me or want to learn more, feel free to email info@txamfoundation.com.

LIFE&ARTS

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The Battalion | 6.26.18

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Visualizing success Former student helps animate “Incredibles 2”

By Jane Turchi @JaneTurchi Patrick James, Class of 1996, has worked with Pixar’s animation team on major successes such as “Wall-E,” “Monsters Inc.” and “Inside Out.” He recently played a role in the box office hit, “Incredibles 2,” as the film’s technical director.

According to Ann McNamara, the associate professor in the visualization department at A&M, visualization students at A&M attain a special edge through classes in the program.

“The combination of theory and practice in both creative and technical [animation] allows our graduates to hit the ground running,” McNamara said. “What sets the Department of Visualization apart is the blend of creative and technical faculty and the high expectations they set for our graduates.”

James completed the visualization graduate program at A&M in 1998. After graduating in December, James landed a job at Pixar and was working by February of the next year.

As a technical director, James is responsible for modeling, shading, lighting and rendering images in the film.

According to Tim McLaughlin, associate professor and department head of visualization, A&M’s program focuses on both the artistic and technical side of animation and prepares graduates for such jobs.

“The Department of Visualization’s academic programs are relatively rare in that they focus equally on aesthetic/ artistic and technical and scientific problem solving,” McLaughlin said. “This makes our expectations for students rather challenging, but those expectations match well with what the animation industry expects from technical directors, such as Patrick.”

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