03-16-2015

MONDAY, march 16 - wednesday, march 18, 2015 • VOLume 101 • ISSUE 51

march madness

preview

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season recap p9 • mbb feature p16 • women’s basketball p17 • storming the court debate p18-19 • critiquing the committee p20 • Trimaine Davis p21 photo by jenna mackey, photo editor; design by kate leonard, art director

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4 NEWS

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: DAVID HERNANDEZ • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

Who’sWho?

#ASDEBATES

EDITOR IN CHIEF Monica Linzmeier MANAGING EDITOR Madison Hopkins NEWS EDITOR David Hernandez ASST. NEWS EDITOR Camille Lozano SPORTS EDITOR Kristian Ibarra ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Matthew Bain OPINION EDITOR Elpin Keshishzadeh ASST. OPINION EDITOR Anthony Berteaux ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Nick Knott

Presidential candidates (left to right) Chelsea Baer, Jeremy Zaida and Blaire Ward present their stances on campus issues at the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union.

JENNA MACKEY, PHOTO EDITOR

AS president candidates debate TORREY BAILEY STAFF WRITER _____________________________________ The three candidates for Associated Students president showcased their plans to empower the student voice, unite the campus and address student concerns at Thursday’s presidential debate.

Sexual assault, university spending and transparency between students and staff were among the main topics of discussion at the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union.

This was the final chance for Chelsea Baer, Blaire Ward, and Jeremy Zaida to publicly discuss their campaigns before voting begins March 16 on SDSU Webportal.

SEXUAL ASSAULT Each candidate acknowledged the school’s progressive decision to enroll the Greek community in preventative sexual assault training, and agreed that this opportunity should be opened up to all students.

Ward said she plans to increase marketing for these workshops, and an upcoming university survey on sexual assault. She also advised students to read about Title IX, which prohibits sexual discrimination at federally-funded campuses.

Zaida emphasized a need to clarify the university’s stance on sexual assault.

“This school needs to have an official policy statement toward sexual violence that is written down and has an official definition of the meaning, how prevalent it is on this campus, the circumstances in which it commonly occurs, what to do

if it happens, any sanctions or campus resources, and prevention strategies,” he said.

Baer emphasized safety as one of her main concerns on her platform. Part of that, is ensuring that every student feels safe on campus, she said.

UNIVERSITY INVESTMENTS Divestment, the act of retracting an investment, has been a hotly controversial issue between students. Zaida passionately debated against some of the university’s expenditures, calling for divestment.

“I don’t think that we should be putting our money that has been given to the school toward investing in companies like oil companies, gas companies, coal companies that can worsen the effects of climate change and pollution in our environment,” Zaida said. “I also believe as a matter of principle, this school should not be involved or taking sides in the Israel-Palestinian debate.”

Baer said her stance is neutral toward divestment because she said it is not the role of president to take sides, and that, as a whole, the student body is not educated enough on the topic to make a decision.

“I believe that the role of president is meant to inform students and present the facts for both sides and allow students to make the decision and allow their voice to be the final decision-maker,” Baer said.

Ward also approached the issue neutrally and encouraged students to attend upcoming forums that will discuss divestment.

During Zaida’s rebuttle, he also expressed his support for open conversations on the matter.

STUDENT SUCCESS FEE Both Baer and Ward were active members on the Student Success Fee advisory board and expressed their support for the additional funding it provides. Zaida applauded the fee’s ability to provide more classes and to rehire tenured staff, but he also called for increased transparency. As a solution, he suggested that each student have the chance to vote on similar initiatives, rather than using focus groups.

A SINGLE ISSUE At one point, candidates were asked which issue they would most heavily focus on during their presidency. Baer said that she would strive to use A.S. funding to enhance the Aztec experience in areas that students don’t believe they can afford.

“It’s expensive to live here, it’s expensive to study here,” Baer said. “However, it’s holding back a lot of students from studying abroad and there is so much funding that doesn’t get used and there are ways they can fund themselves (through these funds).”

Zaida enforced that his goal would be to encourage divestment in companies that negatively affect our environment and involve us in Middle Eastern conflicts.

Instead, he advocated a stronger student voice in financial allocations.

Meanwhile, Ward insisted on alleviating student homelessness.

“The first thing I believe we need to fix is we need to eliminate food insecurities ... I am going to press for that so all students feel they can have a meal throughout the day,” she said.

ASST. ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Ryo Miyauchi FEATURES EDITOR Kelly Hillock ASST. FEATURES EDITOR Olivia Litsey PHOTO EDITOR Jenna Mackey VIDEO EDITOR Wesley Beights DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Kelly Gardner ART DIRECTOR Kate Leonard PRODUCTION DESIGNER Cameron Salce VOLUNTEER WRITERS Torrey Bailey Jamie Ballard Emely Navarro Rafael Avitabile Anthony Reclusado Kris Keehl Mike Heral Patrick Carr Emily Nguyen VOLUNTEER PHOTOGRAPHERS Connor Guy Megan Wood Kelly Smiley _________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Tony Disarufino SALES MANAGER Adam Zabel SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Radbeh Rabaz ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Alfonso Barajas Jordan Dennison Peyton Fedorka Sarah Richardson ACCOUNTING & CONTRACTS Michael Bratt Kalie Christensen _________________________________ STREET TEAM Emily Alvarenga Shelby Snyder Conor Nordberg Paige Plassmeyer _________________________________ GENERAL MANAGER Jay Harn GRAPHICS SPECIALIST Chris Blakemore _________________________________

What’sWhat?

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NEWS 5

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: DAVID HERNANDEZ • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

#GREEKLIFE

Police get calls as Greek ban ends JAMIE BALLARD STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ Several police incidents associated with fraternities were recently recorded after a voluntary social ban on Greek life was lifted.

Leaders of the Greek community lifted the ban following the completion of education programs on sexual assault prevention.

The Agents of Change training, a 50- to 60-minute online training on sexual assault was conducted earlier this semester to educate fraternity and sorority members. Meanwhile, the “Join Us: A Sexual Violence Prevention and Awareness Series” from Feb. 16 to 23 put on by the Greek community was intended to educate the entire campus about safety and sexual assault prevention.

“Following the completion of those programs, the leaders in the Greek community felt confident in our approach moving forward to lift the social ban,” InterFraternity Council President Marc Hess said.

He did not have the number of Greek life members that participated in trainings.

After the ban was lifted on Feb. 27, there were multiple police-related incidents at fraternity houses, most during the first weekend social events were allowed.

Police and paramedics were called to

Police were called to two fraternity houses after the social ban on San Diego State Greek organizations ended.

CONNOR GUY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Zeta Beta Tau fraternity on Feb. 27. The San Diego Fire Department received a call about a 19-year-old woman passing out at 9:24 p.m. A man picked up the phone and said he was the one who wanted help but didn’t need it anymore.

The fire department asked police to go to the fraternity house.

SDSU police Capt. Josh Mays said a

student was arrested for being drunk in public and another was transported to a hospital for potential alcohol poisoning.

A student went to the SDSU police on March 5 and told police she believed she had been drugged the Zeta Beta Tau party on Feb 27.

Mays said detectives are investigating the case and no one is in custody or

identified as a person of interest.

In cases such as the one the woman reported, officers take the report, and offer medical assistance and other campus resources, he said.

A fight allegedly broke out at Kappa Sigma on Feb. 27, according an SDSU police report.

Mays said the department received multiple 911 calls of a fight after hosts tried to disperse a party. He said the house was cleared out and police did not locate anyone who needed medical assistance. No arrests were made.

“The university is notified if police respond to a fraternity or sorority,” Mays said. “They are given details of the incident and who police contacted.”

Hess said Greek leaders are continuing ongoing discussion with their community and campus administrators, and maintaining involvement with programs to educate fraternity and sorority members.

“We, as a community, feel confident in our approach, and with the steps we as a community took and are continuing to take,” Hess said.

Some of the events that were open to the campus as part of “Join Us: A Sexual Violence Prevention and Awareness Series” included a panel discussion on sexual violence, a presentation by FratMANers, and film screenings of Miss Representation and My Masculinity Helps.

#COLLEGEAVENUE

Plan for College Avenue sparks debate EMELY NAVARRO STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ The San Diego State mix-use project South Campus Plaza has spurred debate among San Diego organizations and the community.

The project, currently under construction on College Avenue between Hardy Avenue and Montezuma Road has raised a question: should this project extend sidewalks to create a bike lane, or should this additional space be used as a traffic lane in each direction on College Avenue?

Originally, SDSU planned to make the area along South Campus plaza better suited for pedestrians and bicyclists by adding bike lanes and widening the sidewalk on College Avenue, but later opted for a plan that would add two car lanes instead to reduce traffic congestion, according to The San Diego Reader.

SDSU recently decided to go with the pedestrian-friendly plan.

Councilmember Marti Emerald wrote a letter to Mayor Kevin Faulconer and SDSU President Elliot Hirshman in February in which she encouraged them to reject the new plan. She favored the addition of a traffic lane because she said a bike lane would not reduce traffic in the area.

Since she sent the letter, Emerald has clarified that she does not favor one plan over the other.

“I’m asking that bike advocates, city staff and members of the community meet with me on-site to discuss this further so we can consider a plan that will work for everyone,” she said.

Meanwhile, in a letter sent to the university and the city, residents of College View Estates said they believe a traffic lane would benefit the community best, according to The San Diego Reader.

They argued against the idea that adding a

Cars drive by San Diego State on College Avenue. A proposed plan make the area more pedestrian-friendly is awaiting city approval.

MEGAN WOOD, SENIOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

bike lane would benefit the environment and encourage walking and bicycling by saying traffic backups would increase emissions. Residents added that drivers would avoid College and go to other congested streets, increasing overall traffic in the area.

Paul Jamason, a board member of Bike SD, disagrees. He believes widening roads creates more traffic and leads to congestion in the new lanes.

Bike SD is a nonprofit organization that advocates for safe bicycling.

Jamason said the university would create a safer environment for pedestrians and bicyclists by adding a bike lane, ultimately encouraging more people to use bikes instead of cars.

Katleen Ferrier, director of advocacy for Circulate San Diego, shares a similar sentiment.

“We know from experience that once people feel safe biking, they are much more likely to bike,” she said.

She said College Avenue is an important link for pedestrians using the trolley and the new Rapid busses.

“Currently there are few road features to help people bike or walk from the station into the community, the proposed improvements will help make these connections,” Ferrier said.

The proposed bike lanes and wider sidewalks on College Avenue include design features Circulate San Diego often request. The organization began

advocating for the pedestrian-friendly plan after members alerted it about the College Avenue debate.

The future of College Avenue will ultimately be made by the city. SDSU submitted a permit for the proposed street improvements, but Chief Communications Officer Greg Block said the university doesn’t know when it will receive a decision.

South Campus Plaza broke ground last fall and is expected to be completed by fall 2016. It will include student housing, and restaurant and retail options for both the campus and community.

Bock said the city’s decision will not impact the ongoing construction of the project.

6 opinion

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: elpin keshishzadeh • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

#turnoutthevote

Low voter turnout harms the ticket As students remain uninformed about the happenings of A.S. elections, involvement hinders Emmilly Nguyen Senior Staff Writer ____________________________________

Y

ou may have noticed campaign posters around campus lately — some have names and some have faces plastered all over them. Regardless of their visual appeal, they dont seem to influence the student body.

Spring is here and the smell of fresh ambition fills the air as students run for the executive and representative positions of Associated Student.

Although in recent years there have been improved efforts to get the word out about A.S. elections, the process remains relatively ignored by San Diego State students.

A.S. hopes for a 20 percent voter turnout this year. This is an ambitious goal since voter turnout for the 2014 elections were at a dismal 9.9 percent, 8 percent lower from the previous year. A 9.9 percent voter turnout means out of the approximate 30,000 undergraduate students enrolled at SDSU, roughly 2,900 voted.

Eligibility requirements ensure candidate are enrolled in at least six units of coursework, have earned at

least six units in the previous semester, have at least a 2.0 GPA, and are not on academic or juridical probation.

Aside from the low voter turnout, these standards are relatively low and many of the candidates in the past have run unopposed.

Given these not-so-impressive requirements, by non-voting students are allowing the presence of almost any student in a seat that makes decisions impacting the entire university.

A.S. make decisions that affect the student body and are representatives of every member of SDSU. If students do not vote, it makes it easier to elect a candidate who doesn’t thoroughly address campus concerns, making impactful decisions without these considerations.

Either students do not care or they don’t have enough information to vote.

Whatever the case may be, A.S. needs to motivate students to participate, attend debates and vote.

The gap between the involved and uninvolved students on campus is large, since many students who live on and off campus just go to classes and go home.

“It is a problem, students need to know what’s going on in their school,” liberal

studies freshman Stephanie White said.

White is a commuter and has not heard anything about the A.S. election for this semester. She suggests fliers around school for upcoming debates and candidate speeches during passing periods to better educate the student body, all of which would be helpful.

Most information about A.S. elections and events are shared online but it’s important to note students are scattered across various social media platforms.

If someone is rarely on Facebook or doesn’t like to click on event invites, her or she may completely miss the informative posts.

Attention grabbing and informational posters or fliers, rather than just names and faces, posted around school may make a huge difference. Or, as sad as it may sound, how about an incentive to get more students to vote?

According to the A.S. website, Candidate Debates were from March 9 to March 12 in the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union. In many cases, at least my own, many students didn’t hear about these debates until after.

Other than to friends and supporters, the candidates are just unfamiliar faces and names on a poster a week before

elections. This means nothing without proper promotion of the debates.

Although the debates aren’t the only ways to get proper insight on the candidates, students still aren’t taking the time to get information elsewhere.

Students have the resources to be involved in the election but most of the time they just didn’t know it exists or when it’s coming up. Many students don’t even know where to vote. A.S. should work harder toward making this information more easily accessible.

Maybe the lack of interest on part of students is a bigger problem, but when it comes to electing a student representatives, the bigger responsibility falls on the shoulders of Associated Students.

Students should be active and make their votes matter. And if they don’t see a candidate the impresses them, they should run themselves. We can’t have a democracy of uneducated and uninterested citizens.

March 16 at 8 a.m. marks the beginning of general elections and lasts until March 19 at 7 p.m., during which students log on to SDSU Webportal to cast their votes. So, make sure to vote — these candidates represent you.

#constituentsask

Candidates stand upon platform of issues Incoming candidates have many campus concerns to address anthony berteaux ASST. OPINION EDITOR ___________________________________

T

he foundation of any fundamental democracy hinges on the right of citizen engagement.

Should leadership fail to address and resolve relevant issues that affect their constituencies, then democracy itself will fall through.

It’s only natural that the power of the government be derived from those it means to govern: the people.

San Diego State is no different.

After an eventful year of controversies, we’ve seen our leadership grappling with contentious issues that deeply affect us all. From sexual assault to the Student Success Fees and the mascot controversies, we’ve not only come to realize how relevant these issues are to us as educated students, but we’ve also come to see the power of the citizen voice.

It’s refreshing to know that some students still do care about how their school operates. After a dismal 9.9 percent voter turnout last year, the hope for student participation in democracy was bleak.

However, this year we’re seeing a change.

A minority of students have come together to bring their voice to their respective governments in hopes of change.

In light of renewed student

participation, we are looking toward the next leaders with even greater scrutiny to make sure they represent the student voice. Will they address relevant and important issues that affect us all? How will they guide the discourse of these various controversies? These are the questions we should be asking.

However, before we look at the leaders, let’s look at the relevant issues at hand.

As aforementioned statistics should prove, the lack of student engagement and participation within our student body has been an ongoing issue that has yet to be addressed during this upcoming election. Last years’ 9.9

A.S. candidate for vice president of University Affairs.

“I believe that marketing is something we have to improve on as a school and as A.S,” he said. “It’s crucial that students remain informed about issues like Divestment and the mascot resolution, and engaged in these important issues.”

The lack of marketing and communication has lead for disconnect between students and the school, however it has also lead for a further gap between commuters and campus life. It seems imperative that for a campus of 25,000 commuters, that there is an extensive focus on integrating commuters into campus

the lack of student participation... is a critical hurdle that needs to be overcome. percent voter turnout exemplified this lack of participation, but it was also the lack of student participation in crucial affairs such as the Student Success Fee forums of last year, that have displayed the severe disconnect that students have within this campus.

The lack of student participation and understanding of campus-related issues is a critical hurdle that needs to be overcome.

As an editorial from The Daily Aztec about the lack of student turn out at the forums last year put it, “considering the powers of mass communication we have seen the administration put into effect time and time again to promote happenings on campus, it seems odd, and frankly unreasonable, that such strategies aren’t being put into play to inform students of an issue of this magnitude.”

This lack of communication has not gone unnoticed by Andrea Byrd,

life.

Commuters tend to show low retention rates after freshman year because of their lack of connection to campus. In contrast, students who live on campus show higher GPAs and graduation rates. This demographic is a target to tackle in the upcoming elections.

Another critical issue is funding by the California State University system.

Currently, as noted by the Governor’s Budget Summary for the fiscal 20152016, Governor Brown proposed $119.5 million in general funds, alongside a one-time $25 million for degreecompletion efforts.

However, this number is $97 million short of the amount of money that the Board of Trustees proposed necessary for the state system to operate at full capacity.

Because of budget cuts and further inadequate funds, students are paying

the price. In fact, only 17.3 percent of freshman will complete their undergraduate education within four years because of the lack of funding.

This issue was addressed by vice president of external relations candidate Cameron Lyons during a debate.

“We need to be advocating, at the state level, for more funding,” he said. “I think we should be asking for $150 million (more) for all of us. Split between 23 CSU campuses, I believe $97 million is not enough money.”

Not only is money an issue, but we also have to address the topic of sexual assault.

On a national level, sexual assault has been a contentious issue for college campuses in enforcing measures against it to aid in campus safety. Our campus is no different, sexual assault remains to be an issue that must be handled adequately by the next leader of A.S. Chelsea Baer, A.S. presidential candidate, is taking an educational stance against sexual assault.

“One of the largest issues is sexual assault,” she said. “This is a problem that hits too close to home and must be stopped. Through continued educational programming and workshops, I believe that we can continue making strides against sexual assault and provide better support for survivors. Spreading awareness and providing assistance is vital to combating this serious issue.

All of these issues and others unaddressed, are issues that we should be continuously speaking up about. They affect us all, and in a democracy, it’s our civil duty to practice citizenship skills to address pressing issues that affect our fellow Aztecs.

Democracy is a two-way street, and it depends on your participation, as well as mine.

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: elpin keshishzadeh • opinion@thedailyaztec.com

opinion 7

#voteblaire

editorial

THINKSTOCK

Presidential endorsement moves for‘Ward’

T

his year’s Associate Students elections has fortunately brought together larger studentbody participation than seen in recent years. With multiple candidates running for major seats, Aztecs have their work cut out for them when it comes down to casting their votes.

As moderators of the A.S. debates, The Daily Aztec editors have had the chance to thoroughly consider the platforms and values of each of the presidential candidate. Although all three candidates had strong fundamental points in their debates, Blaire Ann Ward stood out from the pack for her experience, strategic

plans and confident control of her public communication and has therefore been selected as The Daily Aztec’s official endorsement for A.S. president.

Ward has been involved with A.S. since her freshmen year, giving her valuable inside experience and insight that sets her apart from other candidates.

Throughout the entirety of the debate, Ward carried herself with confidence and she articulated main key points and ideas she felt were crucial components of leading the student body, never wavering with difficult discussions

or hesitating to counteract the points of other candidates. Additionally, her strong desire for one-on-one communication will hopefully ensure a positive relationship between A.S. leadership and the general student body.

Although we endorse Ward for president, she wasn’t the only candidate to show potential for what she can do for A.S. and the campus as a whole. Candidate Chelsea Baer stood out during the debate and campaign for her unique insight into the inner-workings of the university, born out of her vast experience in various student organizations,

including SDSU Marketing and Communications and as a former staff member of The Daily Aztec.

Her ability to connect with students outside of the inner circle of A.S. gives her the ability to see issues where some of her peers may not, and we hope to see her in an influential position in A.S. next year.

The Daily Aztec is impressed with the strong candidates who represented the A.S. elections this year and is certain the upcoming school year will be in promising hands. We wish the best of luck to all three presidential candidates and the entire new leadership of A.S.

#asdebates

A.S. debates rebuttal campus concerns Elpin keshishzadeh opinion editor _____________________________________

W

ith an array of campusrelated issues demanding attention, the presidential candidates of the 2015 Associated Students campaign have their work cut out for them. From sexual assault to divestment concerns, a strong issues platform was imperative in this race. Coming from relatively different backgrounds and experience, the three candidates set themselves apart from one another by their take on addressing student concerns — some coming out stronger than the next.

The three candidates (Blaire Ann Ward, Chelsea Baer and Jeremy Zada) had similar visions for the future of San Diego State: to improve communication and ensure the success of all SDSU students and alumni. Although all these points, however cliche, were promising, it came down to how each candidate wanted to go about achieving said goals that made a difference.

For example, in relation to strengthening student voice and communication with and between A.S., Zada recommends an open suggestion box. I for one have always found the A.S. president to be just as inaccessible as President Hirshman, and therefore

don’t see how something as simple as a suggestion box could really do the trick when there is no accountability to showcase if one’s suggestions were ever addressed. On the other hand, Ward’s suggestion for “implemented fireside chats” seems more promising to communicate with a wide amount of students. It’s with these small ideas where one candidate always stands out from the rest.

Aside from communication concerns, many students, along with the editorial board of The Daily Aztec, were interested to see how each candidate would hit the ground running with one of the biggest issues increasingly hindering college life for the past year: sexual assault.

The strongest element mentioned by all three candidates was the idea of education and training for all students, which stems past the current Greekcentered “solutions” the university has implemented thus far. But none of them really took it far enough. It comes down to how each candidate can make it happen and it was a point missed by Ward, Baer and Zada. Students want to know how results will be reached — anyone can toss out suggestions addressed by every major news outlet concerning sexual assault.

Another point that was controversial in its own way was divestment — an issue which divides the student body unlike the generally united views toward sexual assault. Although he risked losing support from a major chunk of the student body, Zada’s strong stance on

The three presidential candidates debated at the Conrad Prebys Student Union Thursday.

Jenna Mackey, Photo Editor

divestment was respectable. When the other two candidates gave safe responses regarding the need to educate students and not taking sides, Zada took on the argument of how the school’s money should not be invested in oil companies.

When it came to this concern, it wasn’t so much Zada’s answer but his ability to make a sound decision.

All in all, most of the candidate responses in this year’s debates were

fluffy, predictable and lacking results.

Students are sick of hearing the same old suggestions over and over. Although one candidate did set herself apart better than the rest, it was a very fine separation.

One can hope any of the three candidates will implement at least a fraction of their grand ideas, but if that’s going to happen, all three must first work on taking initiative on issues to get results, not votes.

8 MUNDO ATZECA

MARCH 15 - 16, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: DAVID HERNANDEZ • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

#ESTUDIOSINTERNACIONALES

Estudiantes promueven su patria VENTURA OLVERA STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ “De vez en cuando la vida toma conmigo café y está tan bonita que da gusto verla”, dice el compositor Joan Manuel Serrat.

Su sentimiento es compartido por miles alrededor del mundo.

En nuestra sociedad el café no es sólo una bebida que nos ayuda a despertar por la mañana. El café es toda una experiencia, su propio momento. Es la oportunidad de empaparnos de actitud positiva para voltear a ver la vida desde una nueva perspectiva y un ángulo distinto cada día.

Este es precisamente el propósito de la hora del café del centro para estudiantes internacionales de la Universidad Estatal de San Diego.

Cada viernes a las 12 p.m. se lleva a cabo la hora del café en las instalaciones del centro de estudios internacionales.

Cada semana el anfitrión del evento es un país distinto, y los estudiantes pertenecientes a dicha región utilizan la oportunidad para conversar acerca de datos interesantes de su nación con los más de 70 invitados que reciben cada semana, según datos del centro para estudiantes internacionales.

El 6 de marzo México tuvo la oportunidad de ser el país anfitrión y muchos estudiantes mostraron su interés no solo en la comida típica del país, sino también en el aspecto cultural de éste.

Estudiantes mexicanos presentaron sobre el arte y la comida típica de su país el 6 de marzo.

VENTURA OLVERA, ESCRITORA

“Personas de diversos países distintos presentan acerca de sus países y muestran lo orgullosos que se sienten de la región a la que pertenecen”, dijo Melak Sabuncu, estudiante de maestría en negocios, y originario de Turquía.

“La razón por la que decidí venir por primera vez y experimentar de qué se trata este evento, es porque me parece interesante aprender de otras culturas”.

Mirna Farhat, coordinadora de la hora del café de la asociación de estudiantes internacionales,

compartió un sentimiento similar.

“Es una buena manera de promover la convivencia y de que los estudiantes de intercambio tengan la oportunidad de explicar a alumnos domésticos y de otros países un poco acerca de su país de origen y su cultura”, dijo Farhat.

Es posible que el mismo país sea presentado anualmente, sin embargo dichas presentaciones pueden resultar completamente distintas, debido a la perspectiva cultural del grupo de estudiantes que lo lleva a cabo, dijo

Veronica Perondi, coordinadora del centro de estudios internacionales.

A diferencia del año pasado, cuando los anfitriones de la hora del café mexicano fueron estudiantes mexicoestadounidenses, en esta ocasión los responsables de llevar a cabo el almuerzo y la presentación cultural fueron estudiantes de intercambio originarios de diversos estados de México. Esto resultó en un evento considerablemente distinto al de dos semestres atrás, dijo Perondi.

“Este es un momento en el que puedes presumir a tu país”, comenta Agustín Mendivil, estudiante de intercambio originario de Mexicali, Baja California.

“Esta es una oportunidad que uno puede tomar para esforzarse en la presentación de tu país y decir, ‘Esto es México. Quiero mostrarte lo orgulloso que estoy de él y el porqué tu deberías de conocer mi cultura’”.

Después de un almuerzo con comida típica mexicana, los estudiantes mexicanos realizaron una breve presentación mediante la cual aclararon estereotipos y promovieron el arte tan característico de su país natal.

“Creo que es importante que sepan que en México no viajamos en burro, que tenemos autos”, dijo Mendivil.

“Tampoco tomamos siempre tequila, también disfrutamos de otras bebidas.”

La hora del café continuará llevándose a cabo cada viernes hasta el final del semestre. Los próximos estudiantes hispanohablantes que expondrán serán de El Salvador, el anfitrión el 10 de abril.

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: kristian ibarra • sports@thedailyaztec.com

march madness preview 9

the march madness preview issue

Madness descends upon us matthew bain

asst. sports editor

________________________

T

he famous Christmas song, “It’s the Most Wonderul Time of the Year” comes to mind when I think of March Madness.

It’s the time of year when the college basketball community at large unites during one absolutely insane month and individual fans across the country fill out brackets they hope are worth a million bucks.

It’s an especially fun

month for students at a strong basketball school like San Diego State. In these next 15 pages you’ll find everything you need to know to have a blast watching the Aztecs make their way through the South region of the 2015

NCAA Tournament.

Be sure to check out features on former Aztec Trimaine Davis (p. 21) and current Aztecs Matt Shrgley and Skylar Spencer (p. 16). Also look out for pro and con arguments for court storming (p. 19-20).

#aztecmbb

SDSU ends streaky regular season Rafael Avitabile staff writer _____________________________________ Before the San Diego State Aztecs opened their season against California State University, Northridge, back in mid November, they had a target on their back in the form of a No. 16 ranking by the Associated Press. They were the apple in the eyes of conference media as well, receiving 34 of 35 possible firstplace votes in the preseason media poll.

Considering the Aztecs’ talent, and the fact that they returned seven scholarship players and senior guard Aqeel Quinn from last year’s Sweet 16 squad, the hype was justifiable. The world got its first look at SDSU when ESPN came to town for the Aztecs’ match up with 25th-ranked University of Utah. The Aztecs’ shot 32.7 percent from the field but still escaped with a 53-49 win at Viejas Arena.

The offensive struggle was soon forgotten when SDSU averaged 70.5 points in regulation in its first two games of the EA Sports Maui Invitational. After the Aztecs took a humbling 61-59 loss to third-ranked University of Arizona in the championship game, people were convinced that with time the boys in scarlet and black could turn themselves into a Final Four team.

Cooling Down The loss to the Wildcats marked the end of the Honeymoon phase that was November, and the Aztecs entered one of their toughest stretches of the year.

The next three weeks of the schedule painted a picture for the remainder of the season that wasn’t pretty.

SDSU traveled to Spokane to face off with the University of Washington in its first big non-conference road contest of the year. The Aztecs shot 20.4 percent from the field and fell to the Huskies 49-36. Days later, Long Beach State University came to Viejas Arena and nearly stole a game from the Aztecs right from under their noses.

The Aztecs had a chance to regain their footing by beating the University of Cincinnati on the road before entering a four-game homestand that broke open the conference season. Instead, they lost 71-62 in overtime after being outscored 14-5 in extra time. As the first half of the season came to a close, it was clear that head coach Steve Fisher and the Aztecs needed to shake things up.

Freshman guard Trey Kell (left) averaged 5.8 points while junior forward Winston Shepard (right) have averaged 11.1 points per game in 2015. megan wood, senior staff photographer

The Shake Up The college basketball world stopped when senior guard Dwayne Polee II collapsed on defense with 11 minutes left to play in the first half against the University of California, Riverside. The more than 12,000 fans in attendance went silent as paramedics, Fisher and Polee’s parents tended to the responsive senior. As he was taken off the court on his way to the hospital, he gave the crowd a thumbs-up and told his teammates to go win the game.

Polee’s absence, due to what was diagnosed as cardiac arrhythmia, left a chunk of minutes on the table, as well as an open spot in the starting line up.

Redshirt-sophomore Matt Shrigley inherited the starting role and his bench minutes were gobbled up by sophomore guard Dakarai Allen and freshman forward Malik Pope. Around the same time, Fisher ended his experiment with running freshman guard Trey Kell, a natural off-guard, at the point guard position.

There wasn’t much of a dropoff between Polee and Allen on the defensive side of things, but Allen’s

meek offensive production left a lot more to be desired. Insert 6-foot 10-inch freshman from Sacramento: Pope.

After missing the beginning of the season recovering from a leg injury that kept him on the sideline for his junior and senior seasons of high school, Pope took the Aztec nation by storm with his absurd length and knack for finding the highlight reel. Pope made 22 points on 9-11 shooting off the bench in the Aztecs 79-73 loss to Colorado State University in Fort Collins and thus spawned his weekly appearance on Chad Ford’s Big Board on ESPN.com.

The Final Run The Aztecs bounced in and out of the AP Top 25 in the final weeks of the season.

Even after road losses to California State University, Fresno, Colorado State and Boise State University, SDSU was largely considered the favorite to win the conference. Polee returned in late February and his presence both offensively and defensively was felt immediately.

SDSU stood in at No. 24 when Boise State landed in San Diego with its eyes

set on the MW regular-season title. BSU head coach Leon Rice and conference Player of the Year, senior Derrick Marks, ponied up and led the Broncos to a 56-46 victory in Viejas Arena. It was the Aztecs’ first home loss in 29 games. The regular season ended with BSU and SDSU as cochampions of the conference, despite Boise sweeping the season series 2-0.

After a 45-43 loss to the University of Wyoming in the championship game of the MW Tournament, eight-seeded SDSU awaits a first-round matchup with nine-seeded St. John’s College in the NCAA Tournament. The target the Aztecs carried to start the season is long gone, but their shot at challenging some of college basketball’s elite teams is in plain view.

Once on the verge of cracking that elite barrier, the men on the Mesa will go into the Big Dance as mid-seeded underdogs with bracket-busting capabilities. Strap in for the ride as first team All-Mountain West honoree J.J. O’Brien, second-team listee junior forward Winston Shepard and conference co-defensive player of the year Skylar Spencer lay it all out to survive and advance.

10

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JENNA MACKEY •PHOTO@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

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ASSOCIATED STUDENTS

GENERAL ELECTIONS 2015 CANDIDATE STATEMENTS PRESIDENT Choose one

JEREMY ZAIDA

My name is Jeremy Zaida. I am an ecology major, a theatre design major, and an eagle scout. I am not your typical candidate for AS President. I want to use the position to reach out and make AS receptive to all students’ ideas and needs. I promise to be a voice for everyone, not just a few select groups on campus. I want to expand on the quality programs AS already offers, while also working to make this campus more sustainable and more affordable. Vote for me, and I will make our campus a safer and more exciting place to go to school.

I want San Diego State to be a leading university for student involvement in campus life. Stay classy San Diego.

BLAIRE WARD

AZTECS My name is Blaire Ward and I am running to be your Associated Students President!

In my 3 years as a student leader, I have held many roles from A.S. Representative for the Student Diversity Commission and PSFA, to involvement in Greek Life and Rotaract. These experiences give me the confidence that we can continue building on our excellence.

I am passionate that each student is able to actively pursue the enhancement of their experience at SDSU, by promoting student involvement, strengthening alumni support, and increasing auxiliary organization integration in providing opportunities to students.

With your support, I am ready and excited to create a bold, fresh legacy that supports communication, strengthens the Aztec experience, and serves student success!

GO AZTECS!

CHELSEA BAER

I believe that every Aztec has a voice to be heard and that voice has the power to transform San Diego State University.

During my time with Professional Studies and Fine Arts College Council, I have served as vice president of public affairs, executive vice president and currently, president. While leading this diverse group of student representatives, I have listened to the voices of the college and helped address the critical needs of thousands.

If elected, I would continue to strengthen communication by creating an informed campus culture. Monthly “State of the University” videos will help those who feel a disconnect between AS and their college experience.

It’s time to bring the campus together. So, vote Chelsea Baer as your next Associated Students President.

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Choose one

KYLE MURPHY

AZTECS My name is Kyle Murphy and I am running to be your Associated Students Executive Vice President.

With involvement in A.S. on the Board of Directors, an active role in Greek Life as the Interfraternity Council Vice President, and diverse experiences in many other student organizations, I understand the importance of enhancing opportunities for all students.

Using my experience, passion and network I will work to develop a culture that promotes Aztec pride. By bringing together students from all areas on and off campus, we will create a university dedicated to a more collaborative Aztec community.

With your support, I am ready and excited to create a bold, fresh legacy that supports communication, strengthens the Aztec experience, and serves student success!

GO AZTECS!

TREVOR YARNALL

I believe that every Aztec has a voice to be heard; and that voice has the power to transform San Diego State University.

My involvement with Associated Students has opened my eyes to the ways any student on this campus can impact the university. No idea is too small to make a difference. My experience with event planning and helping oversee the operations of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union, through the Aztec Student Union Board, has taught me how students can make their voice heard.

I want all students to feel empowered to create the change that they want to see, and that begins with you.

It’s time to bring the campus together. So, vote Trevor Yarnall as your next Executive Vice President.

LEO CARRILLO

AZTECS! My name is Leo Carrillo and I am running to be your A.S. Executive Vice President!

My experience as the A.S. Student Support Commission Representative, Vice President of Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity, involvement in diverse cultural organizations, EOP, and role as a Community Service Officer has prepared me to serve the SDSU student body. I have developed practical and theoretical knowledge to passionately unify and enhance the Aztec Experience!

My vision is to increase awareness of numerous student resources available and boost collaboration among student organizations, A.S., and the campus community. I will cultivate relationships with campus departments to increase Aztec pride and student success.

This position is an opportunity to serve my peers and further enhance SDSU’s national prestige.

GO AZTECS!

About the Candidate Statements

Associated Students invited all candidates to submit a written statement not to exceed 125 words for today’s election special publication. Statements appear as they were submitted by each candidate. No corrections or editing were made by the A.S. or The Daily Aztec, unless otherwise noted. However, some changes to formats for the purpose of uniformity were necessary. The views, opinions, statements or other content in these statements belong to the respective candidates and are not endorsed or fact-checked by the Associated Students, The Daily Aztec, San Diego State University or any of their officers or employees.

Other Election Information

Please note: All regularly enrolled SDSU students may vote for the A.S. Executive Officers and Campus Life Council Representatives. Students may only vote for the A.S. Council College representatives from their respective colleges. Write-In Candidates are eligible for all elected positions after submitting required candidate forms in the A.S. Office, 3rd floor of the Conrad Prebys Aztec student Union.

Call 619.594.6555 for more info or visit www.as.sdsu.edu

VICE PRESIDENT OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS Choose one

BRIAN OH

Greetings Aztecs, my name is Brian Oh and I am running to serve as SDSU’s next Vice President of External Relations.

I see my candidacy as the best opportunity for me to give back to the school that has given so much to me.

With my two years as an Aztec, I have been involved in the Army ROTC program, held a position on the Executive board as Vice President of Internal in the Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity, been a member of Phi Kappa Theta and I am currently on the TEDx SDSU Committee.

SDSU is my second home and my passion for this school will drive me to succeed. Vote Brian Oh for VP External and GO AZTECS!!

TYLER AGUILAR

AZTECS My name is Tyler Aguilar and I am running to be your Associated Students Vice President of External Relations!

As current Vice Chair of the External Relations board, Associated Students Recreation & Wellness Commissioner, and leader in the Greek community, I am confident I can utilize my experience to serve the entire student population.

Through continued campus collaboration, I strive to create lasting relationships with local communities, increase the exposure of Aztec pride, and advocate and lobby on behalf of students for issues that provide greater academic achievement.

With your support, I am ready and excited to create a bold, fresh legacy that supports communication, strengthens the Aztec experience, and serves student success!

GO AZTECS!

CAMERON LYONS

I believe that every Aztec has a voice to be heard; and that voice has the power to transform San Diego State University.

As Vice President of External Relations, it is my duty to ensure that SDSU has a well-informed student body, aware of the legislative actions that affect us as students. With my experience of leading statewide organizations focused on advocacy for student rights, I am looking forward to working with passionate students who will advocate on behalf of the needs of our campus. I will be the bridge between students and our legislators, but the power to elicit change starts with your voice.

It’s time to bring the campus together. So, vote Cameron Lyons as your next Vice President of External Relations.

OSAMA ALKHAWAJA

I am running for the External Affairs position because I love SDSU. This love is not merely extended to what SDSU is, but what it has the potential to become. I have been part of Associated Students for the past two years and it never fails to surprise me how progressive and open minded our student body is, but I feel like we can be even greater than we already are; and this greatness is not just confined to the walls of our classrooms and lecture halls, but to the rising consciousness of our student body in challenging issues of race, sex, and social justice; I want to be a part of that positive change, and in voting for me, I hope you do to.

CHRISTOPHER CZARNECKI

voice. Onward.

Aztecs, I am here to channel your voice. You the people have the power – The power to create happiness – The power to make this experience free and beautiful. Let us use that power. Let us come together; let us do away with greed and intolerance; let us embark on a new era, an era where our progress provides happiness and respect, for each and every one of us.

It’s been 75 years since Charlie Chaplin delivered a similar message to humankind. I believe it’s time we listened to him; it’s time we take swift action; it’s time for you, the student body, to be heard; and I am here to channel your

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCIAL AFFAIRS Choose one

DOMINIC BILOTTI

AZTECS My name is Dominic Bilotti and I am running to be your Vice President of Financial Affairs!

With leadership experience as the current A.S. College of Business Representative, member of the A.S. Financial Affairs Committee, and leader in the Greek Community, I am prepared to serve the student interests.

As Chief Financial Officer, I will enhance the transparency of finances, increase the accessibility of program funding, and continue to raise the bar for Aztecs Rock Hunger. I believe this position is a chance to engage the students in creating a healthy financial state for SDSU. With your support, I am ready and excited to create a bold, fresh legacy that supports communication, strengthens the Aztec experience, and serves student success!

GO AZTECS!

JASON PERETZ

I believe that every Aztec has an influence.

During these last three years, I have involved myself in managing the finances of many student organizations through Associated Students and have sat on numerous Boards. I have learned that it is not just about hearing someone’s voice, but listening to it. The difference is that the people who listen, are the people who act. If Elected, I will be listening to YOU, honoring YOUR voice, and YOUR concerns.

There is more to life than just living. It is about perpetuating the good and making sure every student has an influence on campus. I am the person that can do that for you. So, vote Jason Peretz as your next Vice President of Financial Affairs.

VOTE March 16-19 on the SDSU WebPortal

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS GENERAL ELECTIONS VICE PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS Choose one

ANDREA BYRD

AZTECS My name is Andrea Byrd and I am running to be your Vice President of University Affairs!

With my diverse experiences as the Vice President of Public Relations for Alpha Kappa Psi, Community Relations Officer for Afrikan Student Union, and Media Correspondent for KCR College Radio, I am confident that I am prepared to serve the student body.

Through my role as Chief Academic Officer, I will connect students to the campus community through leadership collaboration, enhance the Aztec Culture Project with renewed programming, and increase accessibility to academic resources by developing the College Council-student relationship.

With your support, I am ready and excited to create a bold, fresh legacy that supports communication, strengthens the Aztec experience, and serves student success!

GO AZTECS!

GARETH EVAN LINTT

As your Vice President of University Affairs, I will put my expertise to work for the university and my fellow students. I have gained valuable experience throughout my life from being an Eagle Scout, a lifeguard instructor, leading extended backpacking trips, and currently teaching a leadership curriculum at high schools.

I will report to the Associated Student University Council to keep them aware of current events. I will facilitate all necessary steps to ensure the fair and consistent treatment of all student causes. I will perform these duties, and all others entrusted to me.

A strong leader not only can take initiative but can also follow. It would be an honor to serve you as a member of the AS Board of Directors.

JOLLY MATEO

I believe that every Aztec has a voice to be heard; and that voice has the power to transform San Diego State University.

Through my involvement in organizations such as Andres Bonifacio Samahan, AIESEC, and the Aztec Student Union Board, I was given the opportunity to grow and connect with students of diverse backgrounds.

This next year, I look forward to working strategically with the university to strengthen the communicative efforts we are all taking to combat sexual assault on campus. Furthermore, by encouraging dialogue between students, I will ensure that every Aztec feels supported in making the changes they want to see at SDSU. It’s time to bring the campus together. So, vote Jolly Mateo as your next Vice President of University Affairs.

JUNE KIM

Fellow Aztecs! My name is June Kim, and I am running to be your next Associated Student, Vice President of University Affairs! As a student leader, I believe that it is important to have the student’s voices heard and keep everyone’s best interests at heart.

As for my leadership experiences on campus, I was the formal Intramurals Chair for my sorority and am a member of the KSA. If elected, I would take on student issues regarding academic policy and further engage with other organizations, such as the Associated Students University Council. I love being an Aztec and I would love to be able to represent all of the students at SDSU in a positive light!

Thank you, and vote June Kim!

CAMPUS LIFE COUNCIL CAMPUS COMMUNITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

SURAJ PATEL

Aztecs!

My name is Suraj Patel and I am running to serve YOU as your Campus Community Commission Representative!

I am committed to improving relations with our surrounding community, and enhancing the role that SDSU has in being a good neighbor. With the support of my fellow Aztecs, I will strengthen communication efforts by maximizing transparency between the surrounding neighborhoods and the student body.

My involvement within Associated Students and the Greek community has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of our university’s relationship with our community neighbors.

By implementing programs to empower our students to get out into the local neighborhoods, we will continue to build on excellence and strengthen our community partnerships for long-term success.

VOTE SURAJ PATEL FOR CAMPUS COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVE!

ABEL R. MERCADO

My plans as an Associated Student leader are simple. I want to be able to support the future commissioner in anyway possible. I want to be the go-to person whenever he/she needs assistance and or guidance. I also want to be able to motivate students to get involved with A.S. and show them it is not as intimidating as others may think. Lastly, I want to be able to continue with the progress we have made with the Campus Community Commission. I am involved with a variety of organizations. I am in the Pre-dental organization, the Campus Community Commission, Green Love, and I am also a resident advisor here on campus.

COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

MEGHAN ANDRADE

Hey Aztecs!

My name is Meghan Andrade and I am running to be your next Community Service Commission Representative.

As a freshman I have become an active member on the Community Service Commission, Marketing and Communications Committee, and Entrepreneur Society. I also serve on the Dance Marathon executive board as the Public Relations and Marketing director. Together, these boards and committees have given me the leadership, creativity, and dedication needed to excel in this position.

As your Community Service Commission Representative, my primary goals are to include all organizations and clubs in service events like the Community Service Expo and Aztecs Rock Hunger and ensure that these opportunities will enhance SDSU and the surrounding community.

Vote Meghan Andrade for Community Service Representative!

CONRAD PREBYS AZTEC STUDENT UNION BOARD REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

VANESSA GIRARD

AZTECS! My name is Vanessa Girard and I am running to be your next Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union Program Board Representative.

My involvement within Associated Students, the Residence Hall Association, and various leadership programs has provided me a diverse perspective of campus life.

As a member of the Aztec Student Union Board, I have overseen a wide variety of campus programs and I am confident that I have the experience and knowledge to enhance our programming efforts and effectively utilize our union.

Through collaborative efforts that focus on unifying the student body, I intend to empower our communities though our union programming. With collaboration, unification, and empowerment I will enhance the Aztec experience.

GO AZTECS!

RECREATION & WELLNESS COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

MICHAEL LIU

Hello fellow Aztecs!

My name is Michael Liu and I am a third-year Public Relations major. I am running for the Recreation and Wellness Commissioner Representative because I can make a difference in our SDSU community! As an avid user of our recreation centers such as the A.R.C., Aquaplex, as well as the recreation fields located at ENS and Peterson Gym, I know what needs to be done to improve the facilities to make them even better. I have been involved with our SDSU community since my freshman year starting with my residence building as Vice President of Hall Council and A.S. orgs such as The Good Neighbor Program and the External Relations Board. I am currently serving as an Exec in my fraternity.

ELLEN RYDELL

HEY MY AWESOME AZTECS It would be an honor to represent you as the next representative for Aztec Recreation & Wellness Commission!

Living an active and healthy lifestyle is upmost important to me. If elected I will continue to strengthen the current activities we have, foster new ideas for a wider variety of activities, as well as effectively communicate with our student body about current projects and programs.

As a current project manager for ASUB Operations committee, a member of Aztec Pride and an active member in Alpha Phi sorority, I am heavily involved in my campus community and committed to making the SDSU experience amazing for all.

VOTE ELLEN RYDELL THE NEXT REPRESENTATIVE FOR AZTEC RECREATION & WELLNESS COMISSION

HAILEY SEIBEL

My name is Hailey Seibel and I want to represent the Recreation and Wellness Commission. These past two years, I have gained leadership experience through AS Commissions, Kappa Delta, and serving as the Undeclared College Council President. I believe I have the necessary knowledge and skills such as delegating, time management, and organization to promote SDSU recreation services and the importance of wellness across campus. My passion for helping others and interest in Occupational Therapy make me well-suited for this position. I ensure you that your questions and concerns will be heard! Thank you for your time!

SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

No candidates

STUDENT DIVERSITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

ITZELT SANTOS

My name is ITZELT SANTOS and I want be YOUR Student Diversity Commission Representative!

As your Student Diversity Representative I will foster UNITY, EMPOWERMENT and help create an INCLUSIVE space for all Aztecs.

As a Chicano/a Studies major, current On-Campus Representative for MEChA, and voting member on the Student Diversity Commission, I know what it takes to promote Cultural and Political Awareness through out Associated Students and across campus to reflect our DIVERSE student population.

Through effective communication and understanding we can work together to bridge our communities!

Vote ITZELT SANTOS for STUDENT DIVERSITY COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE!

BAHMAN HAYAT

Hello everyone! My name is Bahman Hayat, I am a second year Computer Science major and I am running for Student Diversity Commission representative. My goals for next year are to further the voice of underrepresented students on campus, improve our presence at all levels of Associated Students, and create new opportunities to strengthen diversity at SDSU. I represented the Muslim Student Association on SDC last year so I'm familiar with how it operates and functions. I am looking forward to the opportunity of becoming a part of AS and bringing change.

Fun fact: I moved to the U.S. from Pakistan on a Diversity Visa!

JESSICA SANTOS

Hello Aztecs!

I am JESSICA SANTOS and I would be honored to be YOUR Student Diversity Commission Representative!

Today, I serve as an executive board officer for Andres Bonifacio Samahan, as an Ambassador for the university and as a Student Liaison for our Library.

On your behalf, I want to continue to hold AS ACCOUNTABLE to the university’s dedication to diversity, EMPOWER the voices of all diverse groups on campus and offer unconditional SUPPORT to the ongoing needs of those I represent.

I believe we can learn a lot from each other and I want to help foster an attitude of mutual understanding through this position. Our Aztec experience should encompass the insight and exploration of our fellow Aztecs’ rich and diverse backgrounds and cultures.

VOTE March 16-19 on the SDSU WebPortal

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS GENERAL ELECTIONS STUDENT SUPPORT COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

JACK DOHENY

As Student Support Commission Representative, I plan to be totally committed to helping my fellow Aztecs get the most out of their careers here at San Diego State. After serving a year as the Sargent at Arms for the Student Support Commission already, I’ve gained loads of knowledge of the various programs at State that all students can and should take advantage of! My goal is to promote awareness of all of these amazing programs we all can take advantage of for everyone’s benefit! I’m super stoked and motivated to help you all make the most of your time here at State and I look forward to spreading the stoke by showing you all that State has to offer for you, the students!

STUDENT AT LARGE CAMPUS REPRESENTATIVE Choose two

HANNAH FOGG

Hey Aztecs! My name is Hannah Fogg and I want to be your Student-at-Large Campus Representative. As the Student-at-Large Campus Representative, I will increase student involvement in AS and foster improved relationships among the members of the various committees and commissions.

Additionally, I want to promote the endless opportunities and resources Associated Students has to offer. I am involved in Aztec PRIDE, Rotaract, AS Financial Affairs Committee and Community Service Commission, Relay for Life, and I am on the Executive Board of Delta Zeta Sorority. If you choose me as your Student-at-Large Campus Representative, you are choosing a better AS.

KELSEY MOSS

Hello Aztecs! I am Kelsey Moss and I am a junior studying Public Relations and Political Science.

My involvement on campus includes organizations such as the Professional Studies and Fine Arts College Council, the Aztec Student Union Board, the Public Relations Student Society of America, on-campus jobs, and my current position as a representative on the A.S. University Council.

As a Student-at-large representative I can apply these experiences to a variety of situations and relate to students throughout campus. In the upcoming year I hope to increase A.S. engagement, collaboration and outreach to students to strengthen our campus community.

I believe that the Aztec experience continues long after graduation, it’s not just about earning a degree, but becoming an #AztecforLife!

CHRISTOPHER PERRY

Hello AZTECS! My name is Christopher Perry and I am running to be YOUR next Student at Large Representative! Ever since arriving here at SDSU I have done all that I can in order to enhance my involvement. I am a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Over the past two semesters I have sat on the Executive board of the fraternity becoming a Vice President this spring. Believing that a united campus is the key to success, I will transparently communicate the thoughts and ideas of all of campus life in order to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to be heard. Together with your innovative ideas and my commitment to effective execution, we WILL make a difference!

Vote CHRISTOPHER PERRY!

MEGAN DICKSON

My name is Megan Dickson and I am sophomore majoring in Management.

Currently, I serve as VP Philanthropy through my sorority, Alpha Chi Omega, and would like to further my leadership and become more involved with the school. With over 33,000 students, getting your voice heard can be a difficult task. If elected, I will strive to bridge the gap between the students and A.S. and make it easier for your concerns to be recognized. I will listen to every student and put my time and effort into resolving issues dealing with registration, tuition, parking, and many others. I humbly ask for your vote and, if elected, will work hard to improve campus life and be the best representative for students here at SDSU.

UNIVERSITY COUNCIL COLLEGE OF ARTS AND LETTERS REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

JORDAN DENNISON

I am seeking a leadership position in Associated Students to enable me to represent the College of Arts and Letters. I will actively pursue increased support for College of Arts and Letters students, partner with other colleges in creating a unified atmosphere, and communicate the concerns and proposals of Arts and Letters students.

In a dignified manner, I will accomplish my goals to complete all of my plans that are successful for Arts and Letters students, thereby earning respect within the school and A.S. by being trusted with a greater responsibility to become a successful asset to this school, and take the knowledge and leadership experience from A.S. and apply it to life outside of the university. I humbly and respectfully ask for your vote.

PABLO TINOCO

Hello Aztecs!

My name is PABLO TINOCO. I am a sophomore pursuing a double major in sustainability and political science. I want to be your College of Art and Letters Representative.

I want to represent You the students, to learn from YOU, and to EMPOWER Your voices. My experience in A.S. on the GREENFEST executive committee and STUDENT DIVERSITY COMMISSION has prepared me for this position.

My leadership on M.E.Ch.A de SDSU’s executive board as Co-vice Chair and on-campus representative will also allow me to effectively communicate Your views to the College of Arts and Letters.

Along with the ever-changing climate of the university, we’ll make GREAT decisions together.

VOTE PABLO TINOCO FOR COLLEGE OF ARTS AND LETTERS.

HARRISON BAUM

I am Harrison Baum. As a sophomore studying International Business, I currently serve as the Fundraising Chairman of Sigma Phi Epsilon and the Vice President of SDSU’s French Club. I will represent every student of the College of Arts & Letters as an effective communicator and a responsive leader. As your University Council Representative, I will work to improve your academic experience by actively facilitating student input and involvement in the ongoing discussions on campus. My resolve to provide fellow students with a medium through which to participate in this dynamic process will ensure that students’ needs are being effectively represented, and that every voice is heard by our student government.

Vote for Harrison Baum.

Go Aztecs!

College of Arts & Letters Representative continued

MUSTAFA ALEMI

Hey fellow Aztecs! My name is Mustafa Alemi and I am a first year Political Science and Religious Studies double major. I was born and raised in San Diego, California and think that I can make a great representative for the College of Arts and Letters. I have four years of student government experience and believe that will enable me to be a strong leader. As a member of A.S., I would continue the already strong tradition of activism, hard work, and Aztec pride displayed by our student government. I plan to be very accessible and listen to the ideas and concerns of our fantastic student body. I hope to get your vote SDSU!

DYLAN COLLIFLOWER

I am Dylan Colliflower and I hope to be your next College of Arts and Letters Representative.

Through my first two wonderful years here, I have had the amazing opportunity to become involved in numerous leadership positions. Through my positions in: Interfraternity Council, Green Love Commission, International Business Society, EnviroBusiness Society, and the Executive board of Sigma Alpha Epsilon I have acquired the experience and skillset necessary to wholly complete the duties as your Representative As students of CAL you deserve a Representative that will go above and beyond to bridge the gap between students and faculty, ensure the administration clearly hears your voices, and empower future leaders through the creation and promotion of new leadership opportunities.

Vote for Dylan Colliflower if you agree.

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE Choose four

PAUL SULLIVAN

Hello, my name is Paul Sullivan. I’m running to be a representative for the College of Business. I’m currently in my third year at San Diego State but have only spent the past two years studying business. Since my transition I’ve grown familiar to the strengths and weaknesses within the Business program and now strive to highlight the extraordinary resources currently available as well as bring in new change. I’m currently Vice President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon where I relay information from the school to chapter members and vice versa. These experiences will allow me to best represent the wants and needs of the students studying Business here at San Diego State. My dedication though, is what will turn words into actions.

BRIAN PEACOCK

My name is Brian Peacock and I am running to be your next College of Business Representative. My involvement in different Business Societies as well as Greek life has helped give me a diverse perspective as to how the College of Business operates. If elected, I will strive to improve student involvement, increase networking opportunities, and make sure every student’s opinion is heard. I am a confident leader and I look forward to representing you as the College of Business Representative. Thanks and lets go Aztecs.

JIBREEL JONATHON KEDDO

Ever since my first day at SDSU, I knew that A.S. would be one of the most important things I would ever do. Right now, I am only a sophomore, but I have big plans: I know how to make A.S. more accessible, and your vote will help me do it. I’ve been a leader before; In high school, I was captain of the wrestling team, last year, I became the sales manager of an entire showroom, today, I’m on track to become a founding member of brand new fraternity. And now, I look towards the future that I can use my skills to help build for A.S., SDSU, and you, the student.

KEATON LASH

Hello College of Business Students, I am Keaton Lash, and am running to be your next College of Business Representative. Throughout my career at San Diego State University, I have been ambitiously involved with Sports Business Initiative, The International Business Society, and the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. These diverse organizations have given me insight on the global business environment and its effects on San Diego State’s campus. My goal is to supply College of Business students with more opportunities to develop in order to be prepared for the unforgiving world of business. I will strive to improve and stress to underclassmen the importance of involvement on campus and assist them to take advantage of the opportunities this campus has to offer.

MOHAMED (MO) JAWAD

Hello Aztecs, My name is Mohamed Jawad and I am running to be your next College of Business Representative.

I have been involved with the International Business Society, the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, and have served as Vice President of Arab Student Association. My involvement with diverse organizations has allowed me to gain experience of how to work with people and get things done.

With your support, I plan to work with students and faculty to achieve meaningful results for students in the College of Business. I want to see expanded opportunity for student involvement and growth in the impact of activities undertaken by the College of Business.

JAYNIE LEE

I love SDSU and I want to ensure all students on this campus are fully aware of the opportunities around them. I want to strive for a sense of community with all business majors and truly enhance this college council. Doing so will require my leadership skills I have already acquired in being the AS council representative of Undeclared majors. My previous experience for a year on this University Council taught me what to expect and what is expected of me. The voices of the Business students in my council are the most important feedback and I will transfer those messages to the AS council. With my enthusiasm and motivation in this position I know that I can be an incredible asset to this role!

ERIK TAMIYASU

AZTECS! I’m Erik Tamiyasu running to be your College of Business Representative. I want to bridge the gap between employers and students by advocating for the remarkable opportunities on campus that help ensure student success and increase funds that can be used for many diverse purposes.

I played football here freshman year, and I’m an active member in Delta Epsilon Iota Academic Honors Society, financial controller of Phi Kappa Theta, and served as a Justice on the Judicial Affairs Council of Associated Students which have given me the tools that are necessary to be an effective leader on our prestigious campus.

I will face the concerns of our impacted college head on and improve the transparency and communication between students and administration.

GO AZTECS!

VOTE March 16-19 on the SDSU WebPortal

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS GENERAL ELECTIONS College of Business Representative Candidates continued

STEVEN EVENSEN

Hello fellow Aztecs Im Steven Evensen and I am running to be a representative for the College of Business. I’m currently a Junior and have had multiple executive postions in my fraternal organization. These postions helped me to develope the proper leadership and communication skills that are imparitive for a Business representative. If elected i will strive to inform students of the plethora of resources avalible to help become an excellent business professional and leader. Our school is full of wonderful oppertunities for people to excel and learn outside the classroom and i intend to help my fellow colleagues and organizations reach their full potential. Go Aztecs!

COLLEGE OF EDUCATION REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

BROOKE A. SNYDER

Hello Aztecs!

My name is Brooke Snyder and I am running to be your College of Education Representative!

As a junior majoring in Liberal Studies, I am surrounded by my passionate peers on a daily basis and feel the communication between Associated Students and the College of Education must be improved! One thing we all have in common in the College of Education is wanting to make a difference in a child’s life! I have the leadership experience to increase student’s involvement in the various clubs on campus. If this occurs big changes will be made! I have a true passion for education and would love the opportunity to give a voice to all future leaders under the College of Education department!

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING REPRESENTATIVE Choose two

DALTON WILMERS

Aztecs, My name is Dalton Wilmers and I am running to be your College of Engineering Representative. As your liaison between Associated Students and the Associated Engineering Student Council, I will provide engineering students with the networking and professional development opportunities required to ensure that they are prepared for their future careers.

Currently I am serving as the Fundraising Chair for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Substitute AESC Representative for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Vice President of Judicial Affairs for Rotaract, and the External Vice President for Theta Chi. Combined, these leadership experiences have given me the wide variety of skills necessary to be the voice for engineering students which is heard.

Thanks and Go Aztecs!

ANA MORINO

Aztecs!

My name is Ana Morino and I’m running to be your College of Engineering Representative. Currently I am the Outreach Coordinator for Baja SAE, a member of Tau Beta Pi the Engineering Honors Society, the Society of Women Engineers, Rotaract, and M.E.S.A. Being involved with these organizations and my previous internship with NASA-Armstrong has molded me into the leader I am today. As your AS representative, my goal is to promote participation in all the wonderful clubs we have in our college, and to be the bridge between AS and the College of Engineering. Just like any other bridge, it takes a team of engineers to build, and I believe that together we can make this college stronger than ever before!

ALVARO ULARGUI

My name is Alvaro Ulargui and I would like to be your College of Engineering representative. As your representative I want to strengthen the communication and relationship between the College of Engineering students and the Administration. If appointed, I promise to provide all our students with the necessary tools and opportunities to graduate in time set yourself up for a successful path after graduation. One main issue within the College of Engineering is how compacted some of our classes can be and I know many of our students can’t get into the classes they need. As your representative I plan to tackle this issue to the best of my ability so that the College of engineering can continue to improve.

AMANDA CORBETT

My name is Amanda Corbett and I am running to be your College of Engineering Representative. During the past three and a half years at SDSU I have had leadership positions in both American Society of Civil Engineers and Society of Women Engineers. The College of Engineering is a huge part of SDSU and I want to insure that the engineering student body is heard. I plan on representing the College of Engineering with diligence and making it a point to increase awareness and participation in engineering events and organizations.

Thank you for your consideration. If elected I look forward to actively participating in all the duties the position entails and even taking a step beyond what is expected.

MIGUEL GONZALEZ

Hey guys, my name is Miguel Gonzalez and I’ve been an Aztec for almost four years now. As I continue onto the infamous fifth year, I am ready to influence the direction in which our College of Engineering is headed. Specifically, I’d like to focus on ensuring that our students are receiving the resources they need to gain hands on and real world experience, whether it be through extra curricular projects or internships. I plan to take what I’ve learned from being the President and Vice President of the ASCE student chapter and apply it to improving the engineering experience at SDSU. I appreciate your consideration and I hope that you vote for the candidate that you see representing you best.

MEGAN MAHDI

My name is Megan Mahdi and I am running to become your College of Engineering Representative. I am a sophomore Mechanical Engineering major involved in multiple student organizations and clubs on campus. I value the importance of creating a strong network throughout one’s college career, and will work to provide opportunities to bridge the gap between students and future employers. I would also like to further promote the engineering organizations and events on campus by enhancing their financial and marketing capabilities.

Through my involvement in campus organizations and Alpha Chi Omega sorority, I have developed the communication skills serve as a strong representative and voice for the engineering community at San Diego State University.

ERASMO CANONGO

Hello Aztecs! My name Erasmo Canongo. I am a sophomore pursuing a major in mechanical engineering. I want to be your College of Engineering Representative. I want each student’s voice be heard and no student left in silence. I want to represent all students and to empower them to strive for more.

I have gain leadership experience through Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). I was graphic designer for the club and my roles were to keep our website up to date, which I did a good job. You can count on me to keep all engineers students up to date with important events. I will make great decisions for all of us. Vote for Erasmo Canongo as your College of Engineering Representative.

College of Engineering Candidates continued

LLOYD TISUELA

Hey Aztecs!

My name is Lloyd Tisuela and I am running to be your next College of Engineering Representative.

My involvements in A.S. include being members of the FLEX team and University Affairs Board as early my first semester at SDSU; inspiring my passion to serve other students. As a member of student run organizations such as SDSU’s FSAE team, I have been provided with an informed perspective of the College of Engineering’s extent as a resource for its students.

I understand the importance of having healthy engagement between administration and students. If given the honor of being your representative, I will do whatever it takes to encourage communication and personal development within the students of the best college at SDSU. That is a promise.

MICHAEL TRAN No statement submitted.

VAUGHN HAKA

As a College of Engineering Representative I will offer the perspective of one deeply ingrained within San Diego State University’s Engineering community. I will accurately voice the concerns and opinions of the College of Engineering, to best benefit engineering students like myself. My inclination to be a representative of Engineering stems from my significant involvement within engineering organizations on campus. I hope to help influence our school to make it the most academic and enjoyable place that it can be.

As an active member of the SDSU community I have been involved in a variety of engineering-related organizations throughout campus. Through membership in Engineers without borders, I have learned the positive impacts engineering can have on within a community.

ERIC GOULET

No statement submitted.

COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

DYLAN HOTIS

My name is Dylan Hotis and I am a freshman at San Diego State. As an elected College of Health and Human Services representative, I would attempt to accomplish many things in my department which would make student experience easier and manageable at San Diego State. Offering more internship opportunities to students for work experience and having the budget spent efficiently are some goals that I want to reach during my term. I have plenty experience in leadership roles that make me credible including being vice president and co founder of the Future Health Professionals of America Club in both New York and California, member of student leadership at Palisades Charter High School, leader in both football and lacrosse, and a tutor to student athletes.

LEWIS COLLAZO

Hello AZTECS! My name is Lewis Collazo and I am running to be your AS Representative for the College of Health and Human Services. My current position on the executive board of Phi Kappa theta has groomed me as a leader and I am excited for the opportunity to apply those skills on campus. Being a committee member of Recreation and Wellness as well as the Student Support Commission, I see the limitless opportunities our amazing school has to offer. I plan on being a resource to ensure your voice is heard and to inform you of all the opportunities presented by the various committees in Associated Student so we can grow as students and excel in our prospective job markets after graduation.

GO AZTECS!

TY YATES

My name is Ty Yates and as a AS leader for College of Health and Human Services I would like to represent those of whom share the same passion as I do. I want to represent my fellow peers and create a bridge between student and faculty and lead my fellow peers with integrity and responsibility. College of Health and Human Services has so much to offer and if elected I plan on going above and beyond all ceilings in making sure that we all succeed together.

CHRIS THOMAS

Carpe Diem. In the upcoming year I hope to be able to make sure the voices of all students from the College of HHS are heard. I really do want to hear what everyone would like to say on how to make our college experience better.

Servant leadership is one of my main attributes I would like to bring to this position. Wanting to be a leader is simple, but accomplishing goals from which thousands of students will benefit is as much different task. I have sat in all College Council meetings and grasp what it means to be an AS representative for one of the best colleges at SDSU. Let’s make this upcoming school year the most memorable and create change to benefit all!

IAN FIELDEN

Hello Aztecs!

My name is Ian Fielden and I am running to be your representative for the College of Health and Human Services.

As your representative I will be a catalyst for communication and representation between A.S. and our peers. I will work diligently and efficiently to disperse information and provide resources to the student body in order to ensure that everyone has an equal chance to succeed as well as an excellent experience! I believe that each student's voice should be heard and I will make myself available to you in order to improve the continued excellence of our university. Currently, I am the Health and Safety Officer of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.

Thank you for your consideration. Go State!

VOTE March 16-19 on the SDSU WebPortal

ASSOCIATED STUDENTS

GENERAL ELECTIONS 2015 CANDIDATE STATEMENTS COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES AND FINE ARTS REPRESENTATIVE Choose three

MARISA CUBING

Hey there Aztecs!

My name is Marisa Cubing and I am currently a first year here at San Diego State. I am an active member of Delta Gamma and I am a part of the First-Year Leadership Initiative (FLI) program for Associated Students. My passion and commitment to the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts has encouraged me to run for your College of PSFA Representative. If elected, I plan to be a resource when needed to my fellow peers and I strive to voice the wants and needs of our college.

Vote Marisa Cubing for College of PSFA Rep!

JULIA ELHAI

Hello Aztecs! My name is Julia Elhai and I am excited to be running as your PSFA representative.

Currently, I am a first year student who has become very active on campus including serving on the executive board of the Jewish Student Union, while being involved in several other campus organizations. I believe these leadership positions have prepared me to take on a role that serves to represent you.

If elected, I want to ensure that we are heard when important decisions are being made regarding SDSU. I believe that all students have a right to a voice. If given the opportunity to serve you, I will take the responsibilities that come with the position seriously and be dedicated and committed to best represent PSFA.

SINTHIA GARCIA

I am currently pursuing a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Sociology.

I grew up in a household of five, in the South Bay area of San Diego. My whole life I have been taught to be humble and to give back to the community. This is why I aspire to work with juvenile delinquents. I have been involved on campus with C.A.S.A, Alpha Pi Sigma, and the A.S Student Support Commission. I aspire to be my college representative, in order to voice commuter and transfer student needs. I am hoping that this position will enable me to learn more about my college, and provide me with the tools I need to successfully reach out to other students.

MURIEL ROBOTTA

Hello Aztecs! I have been involved with AS since the very beginning of being a student hear at SDSU. My immediate involvement with multiple boards and committees quickly immersed me into campus life and taught me there is so much more to SDSU than I had ever imagined. I have a great understanding of how AS works and know a majority of the people involved. As a PSFA Representative, I would make sure to listen to what students suggest and would do my best to see that their voices are heard. As a student in the PSFA college and a member of the PSFA college council, I have a great understanding of what this position entails and how to properly execute it. Go Aztecs!

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES REPRESENTATIVE Choose four

AMARDEEP SINGH GREWAL

My name is Amardeep Grewal, a sophomore at SDSU, and I am running as your College of Sciences Representative. Currently, I am a representative for Association of Computing Machinery, thus I am aware of what the position of a representative encompasses. In high school I was the vice president of Sports Club and Culture Club, so I have had experience in positions other than just representative. As far as my plans as an AS leader, I will do my best to listen to students regards and communicate them to the College Board. Sometimes representatives forget, or don’t take the time to listen to their student body. I will fulfill this goal by being approachable, and as helpful as possible.

ANDY TANG

To my fellow Aztecs, My name is Andy Tang and I am running to be YOUR next College of Sciences Representative. As a sophomore currently in pursuit of a Bachelor's in Biology, I hypothesize the College of Sciences to be exponentially growing, in both potential and numbers, in the years to come.

With a selfless and relational leadership style, I aim to vitalize an environment where all science organizations are equally respected and represented among the College. What sets me apart from other candidates would be my motive to increase morale and to push for a more interactive community within the College.

As a leader in a diverse field of organizations, I will strive to concentrate on improving the College however I can.

THANK YOU.

College of Sciences Representative Candidates continued

ALEXIS DUMITRESCU

Hello Aztecs!

My name is Alexis Dumitrescu and I’m running to be your next College of Sciences Representative! As Biology major, a contributing member of AMSA and the Phi Eta Sigma Honors Society, as well as an active member of Alpha Phi, I believe I have the drive, passion and resources to effectively represent our college. My main focus is to ensure a positive voice for the students in our community, and serve as a direct connection between the College of Sciences and the University. If elected, I will strive to work toward more networking opportunities, greater class availability and most importantly, keeping the voices of each and every student heard in the advocacy of policies. Thank you for your consideration!

JONNY SEMAAN

My name is Jonny Semaan and I am running to be your next College of Sciences Representative. I am a third year student seeking a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Personality and Social Psychology. Serving as a leader of several off-campus cultural organizations, a member of the American Medical Student Association, a member of the Preprofessional Health Advising Office, and a leader in Greek Life has molded me into a diverse and qualified individual; upholding the standard of excellence expected of me in all aspects of my life. As an elected representative for the College of Sciences I intend to advocate for student influence in department decisions, curriculum, and class availability, guaranteeing that no student’s voice goes unheard.

JUSTIN FATOOHI

The journey students take achieving a major in the College of Sciences is no walk in the park. It takes determination, concentration, and long study hours to pass that organic chemistry class, I have been through it. The last thing anyone wants is for the connection between students and the Science administration to be inattentive or unresponsive. I want to represent you the students of San Diego State with full intentions to make your major in the College of Sciences go as smooth as possible. I will represent your values and insight, so that together we can all benefit the University and ourselves.

GERVIN PRADO

Hello Aztecs, my name is Gervin Prado and I am running to be your College of Sciences Representative. I will strive to strengthen the communication between the whole College of Sciences students and our university administration. My current executive board position of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity has given me the tools, resources and leadership abilities to create a strong community where every student has their voice heard and will be able to succeed in their future career path. It is imperative that the students must excel academically and with my help, our college will promote issues favorable to students. The advancement and progression of our department, school, and student body is my passion and I hope to represent you the best I can!

UNDECLARED / UNCLASSIFIED STUDIES REPRESENTATIVE Choose one

NATE LLOYD

As the College of Undeclared representative to the University Council, I would bring energy and drive to the position. My experience as a representative in high school has prepared me well for this position. I believe strongly in uniting the College of Undeclared with communication and networking. I will strive for increased teamwork and synergy to promote success and support for my fellow undeclared students.

GRADUATE STUDENT ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Choose one

MELANIE WILSON

As Graduate Student President I would like to enrich the graduate student experience! I want to increase graduate student pride and help to facilitate bonds across the graduate departments. I will more deeply engage graduate students in on campus activities and benefits. I will strive be accessible to all graduate students as a resource to help connect them to the information and services they need. I will enhance the Graduate Student Association’s social media presence because I believe starting the conversation is the best way to make things happen. I am a leader in my job and in the organizations I am a part of. Now, I want to be your leader. Elect Melanie Wilson for Graduate Student President!

VOTE ONLINE at the SDSU WebPortal Monday, March 16 (starting at 8am) thru Thursday, March 19 (ending at 7pm)

16 march madness preview

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: kristian ibarra • sports@thedailyaztec.com

#aztecmbb

Rivals to roomies: Sky and Shrig matthew bain asst. sports editor _____________________________________

“We just have so much in common,” Spencer said. “And you know when you live with somebody you learn a lot about them, and I haven’t really found anything crazy about (Shrigley).”

Nowadays redshirt-sophomore Anyone who’s set foot on campus in Matt Shrigley is known as a 3-point the last three years knows that it’s not marksman with a Ray-Allen-like stroke at all uncommon to see the two walking from long range. together on campus as often as they Shrigley’s current teammate, junior can be seen high-fiving and sitting next forward Skylar Spencer, said that to each other on the bench at SDSU wasn’t necessarily the case when their basketball games. respective AAU basketball club teams, “We don’t have classes together, so Pump N Run and Team Jennings, would that’s about the only time we don’t see clash years ago. each other,” Shrigley said. “We see each Spencer said he’d see Shrigley other at practice, go get some food after constantly flashing his athleticism and practice, then we go to tutoring together dunking on his opponents, something and then we go back home together.

San Diego basketball fans also So I see Skylar for about 90 percent of remember from Shrigley’s days at La my day, and we’ve Costa Canyon never fought in our High School. lives.”

But both Wait — never players said fought? there was “We get along, a certain we don’t argue, opponent the we just have a San Diego lot of things in product failed common,” Spencer to dunk on: said. “I like him Spencer, San because he’s kind Diego State’s of like me. He’s a l l - t i m e not the opposite blocks leader. of me or anything, “I hated so we just fit in Skylar for perfectly.” like five years Not even certain because he’d annoying habits always be in that bother you the middle even though you of the key love the guy? disrupting “He doesn’t e v e r y t h i n g ,” - Skylar Spencer, really do anything Shrigley said.

Junior forward a n n o y i n g ,” Spencer was Shrigley said with much happier a laugh. “I can’t make one (annoying reminiscing about this aspect of the habit) up.” past than Shrigley was.

The two rivals-turned-roommates “It’s what I do,” Spencer said with a learned yesterday that their team earned big smile. “And so it’s just funny that the No. 8 seed in the South region of the we’re good friends now.”

2015 NCAA Tournament and are slated Both three-star athletes according for a first-game matchup against the No. to Rivals.com, Shrigley and Spencer 9 seed, St. John’s University. joined junior forward Winston Shepard “This program is on a big uprising,” as SDSU’s three freshman recruits Spencer said after watching the entering the 2012-13 season.

Selection Sunday show with Shrigley Spencer said it’s customary for and his teammates in the Fowler freshmen on the basketball team to Athletic Center. “Every year, we strive room together, but Shepard chose to for better and better so hopefully we live on his own, so 19-year-old Shrigley advance what we did last year … I’m just and 18-year-old Spencer, who were at blessed that we’re in the tournament. the time acquaintances from their AAU Numbers don’t really matter. You just battles, lived together. have to go out there and play.”

They still do three years later.

“

(Shrigley and i) get along. we don’t argue, we just have a lot of things in common. i like him because he’s kind of like me. he’s not the opposite of me or anything, so we just fit in perfectly,”

Doers Do CSULB Summer Sessions 2015

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California State University, Long Beach College of Continuing and Professional Education SS_SDSU2v_Ad1_S15.indd 1

3/3/15 11:17 AM Lorinda Owens Ad size: 5.125 in. X 4.0 in.

San Diego State

Junior forward Skylar Spencer has lived with redshirt sophomore Matt Shrigley for three years. megan wood, senior Staff PhotograPher

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

MARCH MADNESS PREVIEW 17

#AZTECWBB

Terry’s team has tough 2014-15 ANTHONY RECLUSADO STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ The 2014-15 San Diego State women’s basketball team is not cutting down any nets; they did not receive any postseason bids or end the season with a winning record.

This season was not pretty and at times it was difficult to watch, however, these women never stopped fighting. Even when the excuses (no superstar, offensive deficiencies and a freshmen class that never lived up to the hype) were the ideal scapegoat to quit on this season.

This never-say-die mentality was clear every time they stepped foot on the court, but consistently poor 3-point shooting and a lack of a star player haunted the Aztecs all season long.

SDSU had such a difficult time to shoot the 3-ball that out of the 343 NCAA women’s basketball teams they were eighth to last in 3-point field goals per game and 12th to last in 3-point field goal percentage.

As for the starless problem both redshirt-junior forward Erimma Amarikwa and freshmen guard McKynzie Fort ended the season averaging over 10 points per game; however, if you kept track of this team you would know that although both are solid players, neither could take over the game on a consistent basis, especially with the lack of floor spacing.

Amarikwa was able to hit the occasional mid-range jumper, but was most comfortable in the post. Unfortunately for her, so did many of her teammates, which clogged up the paint. The same went for Fort who always looked for the soft spot in the defense, but was usually met by a wall of defenders on her drives to the basket.

Nevertheless, the Aztecs headed into the Mountain West Tournament with their sights set on a championship.

After a rout of the University of Nevada, Reno, SDSU fell to the University of New Mexico after a missed putback in the final seconds ended their year.

The red and black ended the season with a 12-19 overall record, 8-10 in conference play, which marks the first back-to-back losing seasons for the Aztecs since the 2005-06 and 2006-07 campaigns.

In its season opener, SDSU hit the road running against California State University, Sacramento in a game that could have been easily mistaken for a track meet as neither teams’ defense bothered to make an appearance. In

Freshman point guard McKynzie Fort (left) and redshirt-junior point guard Ahjalee Harvey helped lead the Aztecs to 12 wins this season.

KELLY SMILEY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

hindsight this game foreshadowed what was to come for the Aztecs: poor ball handling, no perimeter game to speak of and no go-to player.

This was also the first time SDSU had a winning record under second-year head coach Stacie Terry at 1-0. Unfortunately, it would be the last of this season.

The next three games were hard to swallow for Aztec fans as SDSU dropped each by double-digit margins, including an 89-38 loss on the road against the Associated Press No. 2 University of South Carolina.

They went on to the San Juan Shootout in Puerto Rico where they split their two games, losing to the University of Michigan where they were bombarded with a barrage of 3s and dropped to 2-4 on the season.

After some much-needed rest and relaxation for the Aztecs, the University of California, Santa Barbara was sent packing with a loss.

However, the following stretch for SDSU was what coach Terry described as one of the lowest points of the season for her and the team. The next four games were the worst stretch under Terry’s time at the helm, losing on average by 16 points and all by double digits.

Heading into conference play the Aztecs

were sporting a 3-8 overall record, with all eight losses coming in double-digits. To make matters worse the freshman class that was highly touted at the beginning of the season began to show their flaws, aside from Fort who already established herself as a starter. Freshman guard Cheyenne Greenhouse was stripped of her starting position while freshman forward Lexy Thorderson was struggling just to see the court.

Despite their struggles the Aztecs, were able to secure the win against Air Force Academy and notch their first road win on the season.

The women were quickly humbled, dropping back-to-back games against the California State University, Fresno and University of New Mexico.

The Aztecs would go 2-1 in the win-loss column during their next three matches defeating Wyoming and Air Force at home staggered with a loss to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas at Thomas & Mack Center.

After the victory against the Falcons, SDSU improved to 6-11 overall and 3-3 in MW action. SDSU then found itself in a slug match with the top-seed Colorado State University where neither team could buy a basket.

The Aztecs scored a season-low 36

points, where Fort and Amarikwa tallied 20 of those points.

SDSU would then travel to Fresno for a rematch against the Bulldogs, but the result was the same as the ladies in red and black could not overcome a 17-8 edge in made free throws, losing 57-50.

After a drubbing of Utah State for their second, and final, road win of the season, the Aztecs —7-13 overall record, 4-5 in conference play — finally captured that elusive back-to-back victory with a win against Nevada. In what was the highlight of the season, SDSU toppled Boise State University in Viejas to extend their win streak to three. The Aztec defense suffocated the Broncos offense and limited them to 26.4 percent shooting on the night.

What looked like a turning point for the Aztecs, turned out to be a flash in the pan as they dropped their next three games and fell to 9-16 overall, and 6-8 in the MW. The Aztecs would end the final four games of the regular season trading wins and losses.

Terry will have two starters return next year, guards redshirt-junior Ahjalee Harvey and Fort, as well as hand the reins to the frontcourt over to junior forward Deidra Smith and redshirt-sophomore forward Aleiah Brandon.

18 MARCH MADENESS PREVIEW

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

COMMENTARY

#STOPCOURTSTORMING

Keep ineffective fans off the court College basketball fans have a long-standing history with bum-rushing the court after an exciting victory. Not everybody agrees with this form of mass celebration.

MIKE HERAL SENIOR STAFF COLUMNIST ____________________________________

T

his will be one of those opinion-based columns readers have come to hate.

It’s about as welcome of an argument as writers mashing keyboards in anger about Daylight Savings Time. Yet, here is the topic nonetheless: Court storming season is upon us once again, and it’s just as dumb as it has ever been. It’s time to retire the annual rhetoric, because it’s time to stop allowing fans on the floor.

The most obvious reason is that someone is going to get hurt. It’s also the most boring. Every columnist has already written that think piece. But most of them are thinking about it in the wrong way. Since the potential for injury is prevalent in every sporting contest, the argument isn’t all that compelling.

The best reason to retire court storming is because it instills the false belief in

fans that they matter. Quite simply, they don’t.

A home team’s dominance has more to do with the other team being forced to travel than it does almost anything else. Look at almost any team’s record and its home record will usually be better than its road record. This is true at packed-to-the-rafters Viejas Arena, and it’s true at quiet-as-a-church Save Mart Center at California State University, Fresno. Speaking of, remember when San Diego State lost at Fresno this past January? Remember seeing all the empty seats? All four Fresno fans in attendance surely didn’t inspire the Bulldogs that day. The sixth man was most likely every Bulldog’s own bed that gave him a good night’s rest.

It’s strange, then, that I don’t remember seeing Tempur-Pedics bum rushing security guards to get to the floor of the Save Mart Center.

If it’s about the fans, then how does one explain this year’s home loss against Boise State University? Those in attendance tweeted continuously

that Viejas was as loud as it’s ever been.

If loudness matters, if fans dressing in T-shirts matter, then the Broncos were toast before the team bus even chugged up to the Mesa. A funny thing happened after that bus got to its destination: The Broncos won by double digits.

What’s the opposite of rushing the floor? Flooding the exits, as that’s what “The Show” did before the final buzzer sounded.

Despite what the team tells its fans, despite what an overzealous public relations department spits out, fans matter little at home. It’s likely the Aztecs would boast the same sterling home record if it played in front of 124 fans instead of the 12,414 fans who regularly attend. Otherwise, how can one explain championship-level teams that play in front of sparse crowds, such as MLB’s Tampa Bay Rays? Better yet, how does the Aztec football team ever win a game at cavernous Qualcomm Stadium?

Where fans do matter is in the

CON

pocketbook of the team’s ownership.

They need fans to buy tickets, food and souvenirs. That’s it.

Lest I be accused of beating a dead horse, let’s travel up the I-5 to look at one more example of fan irrelevance.

Fans of the Seattle Seahawks are famous for their noise. Announcers say over and over that the ear-shattering decibel level forces opponents to play scared. Yet those fans didn’t just start screaming two seasons ago. They’ve been screaming for years, and often in front of non-playoff qualifying squads.

Seattle’s streak of NFL superiority isn’t from large lung capacity; it’s from having the right roster. Otherwise, they’d be just as forgotten as the Kansas City Chiefs, whose fans regularly compete with Seattle’s in terms of loudness.

So the next time you are at a game and thinking about rushing onto the floor, ask yourself these questions first: How many points did you score, and how many rebounds did you haul in? If the answer is zero, then that’s how many steps you need to take where actual athletes tread.

A San Diego State Aztec fan holds up a sign.

JENNA MACKEY, PHOTO EDITOR

MARCH MADNESS PREVIEW 19

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

#KEEPCOURTSTORMING

Court storming is a fan birthright KRIS KEEHL STAFF COLUMNIST _____________________________________

S

an Diego State made it loud and clear following the Aztecs’ 67-43 victory against University of Nevada, Reno that it supports college student celebration and

spontaneity.

As the clock wound down, students started systematically filing down stairs and lining up behind a rope. Students then waited an additional 58 seconds until they were allowed to spiritlessly jog onto the court.

The decades-long debate of whether court storming is appropriate was reignited after the Kansas State University Wildcats beat the University of Kansas Jayhawks in consecutive home games for the first time in 32 years on Feb. 23.

As time expired following the Kansas State 70-63 victory, spirited Wildcat fans poured onto the court in a beautiful display of long-suffering turned to celebration. During the initial rush, a snot-nosed Wildcat fan decided it would be cool to run into Jayhawk junior forward Jamari Traylor.

After the game, Kansas head coach Bill Self spoke against court storming and then discussed the danger it brings to

San Diego State Aztec fans cheer on the men’s basketball team at Viejas Arena.

MEGAN WOOD, SENIOR STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

players. In reality, Self was a coach who was embarrassed and acted like a sore loser.

Sorry, coach, but it’s absolutely not wrong to storm the court.

It’s important to understand that fans are an extension of what’s happening on the court. Look at the passion in student sections across the country. These students yell at the opposition, sing synchronized chants, wave cutouts of huge faces and at Arizona State University the students even twerk.

Players on the floor are sweating and making sure they give no less than 110

PRO

SPECIAL INITIATIVE REFERENDUM APRIL 6-9, 2015 ON SDSU WEBPORTAL ASSOCIATED STUDENTS APRIL 6-9, 2015 SPECIAL INITIATIVE REFERENDUM An Initiative Referendum proposed by a petition signed by at least five percent of the total regular membership of the Associated Students: In furtherance of the University’s stated commitment “to prepare all members of its community to promote social responsibility, equity, freedom, and productive citizenship in a global society,” should the Associated Students of San Diego State University encourage The Campanile Foundation, a philanthropic, tax-exempt foundation and an auxiliary of the University, to cease investing in and to divest itself of investments in companies, many, if not most, of which are major American companies, which aid and abet Israel’s control over or occupation of the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem (the “Territories”)?

Yes____ A “Yes” vote indicates that the Associated Students will encourage The Campanile Foundation to divest itself of investments in companies which aid and abet Israel’s control over or occupation of the Territories.

No____ A “No” vote indicates that the Associated Students will not encourage The Campanile Foundation to divest itself of investments in companies which aid and abet Israel’s control over or occupation of the Territories.

Please email aschiefjustice@mail.sdsu.edu, or call 619-594-6555, or visit the Associated Students Office, located on the third floor of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union, with any questions or for further information.

OPEN FORUMS

will be held in the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union Tuesday, March 17, 4:00-6:00pm, Park Blvd.

Monday March 23, 5:00-7:00pm, Union Theatre Tuesday, March 24, 4:00-6:00pm, Union Theatre Wednesday, March 25, 1:00-3:00pm, Union Theatre

percent to ensure a victory, so fans mirror that. For 40 minutes plus overtime, fans have a responsibility to become emotionally invested in the game and cheer their collective faces off.

With each made play the energy grows again and again.

After the buzzer sounds, fans have the right — birthright — to be proud and get crazy.

After all, when students pour that much into a game they feel as if they just willed their team to victory, and that feeling is too damn good to not be celebrated on the floor.

When rushing the court is done

right, students don’t make a conscious decision to break the rules. It comes as a spontaneous eruption of raw emotion that has reached its limits in the stands, and has no other choice but to take the path of least resistance and flow onto the floor.

This is a heat-of-the-moment, I-poured-my-heart-and-soul-into-this, my-wildest-dream-came-true, I-am-apart-of-this and a-brick-wall-can’t-holdme type of situation.

On the floor, students enter into a beautiful communion with fellow fans and players. There is no other venue on this planet where fans get to directly celebrate with this level of athlete.

These students have also made a fouryear commitment to their university, which breeds immeasurable school spirit.

No one should legislate how much pride a student can take in his or her school.

It would be unimaginable to see a game without the possibility of students taking to the floor. Court storming has become associated with iconic wins, proving that college sports aren’t just about the athlete, but also the fan.

Attempting to take away or tame the concept of storming is an absolute crime. It’s an assault on sports fans, and those that disagree likely have never participated in court storming, been a die-hard fan of any team or are afraid to maintain tradition.

Don’t let a policy-making, no-fun hack neuter your game.

20 march madness preview

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: kristian ibarra • sports@thedailyaztec.com

#selectionsunday

COMMENTARY

Money over magic for committee patrick carr senior staff columnist ____________________________________

A

fter all the time the NCAA Tournament selection committee spent debating who would make the NCAA Tournament’s field of 68, the group of 10 athletic directors and conference commissioners came up with a piece of garbage.

It’s unbelievable, except that it’s not.

University of Texas, University of California, Los Angeles and University of Indiana are in the tournament. Please, why?

The Longhorns went 8-10 in the Big 12. You picked a team with a losing conference record? They had the 15thtoughest schedule, but they disappointed their way to a 3-10 mark against top-25 teams. That’s not a tournament-quality team.

Neither is UCLA or Indiana. They’re both mediocre teams with 13 losses who got in on name recognition and fan-base alone. It’s criminal. The tournament is supposed to be about the best teams and matchups, not what school’s fans can pony up the most Benjamins.

That’s the world we live in. That’s why Murray State University got snubbed.

That’s also why Colorado State University got snubbed. You can argue all day about the Rams’ strength of schedule (No. 118 and No. 77 non-conference), but the fact is CSU isn’t a blue-blood program with 11 national championships.

The most mind-boggling decision was seeding University of Dayton at No. 11 in the First Four, which is held in Dayton, Ohio. Really? A home game?

Mountain West teams could make a run Arguably one of the worst conferences in the nation, the Mountain West got three bids in the Big Dance, two more than anyone thought three months ago when Boise State University, Colorado State, University of Wyoming and San Diego State suffered bad losses.

Two of those teams have a shot to make a run.

If Boise State beats Dayton — yes, the Broncos drew the short straw and are playing a road game — the winner of University of Oklahoma and University at Albany would await, and by the way, Oklahoma has got to be the worst No. 3 seed in tournament history.

Wyoming also has a favorable draw. If the Cowboys beat University of Northern Iowa, which is highly possible, then either University of Louisville or University of California, Irvine awaits. It’s not completely against Wyoming to make it to the Sweet 16. Louisville isn’t exactly invincible.

Freshman forward Malik Pope helped lead the Aztecs to a No. 8 seed in the South region of the Big Dance. megan wood, senior Staff PhotograPher

SDSU has no shot at a Sweet 16 The Aztecs are the lame duck of this group. When they found out they were a No. 8 seed in the South region, the first thing people said was, “I’ve got SDSU over Duke.”

Does anyone think the SDSU, the team that holds opponents to 45 and 49 points and still manages to lose, is going to beat a St. John’s University team that can actually score more than 50 points per game? News flash: The Red Storm score 71.2 points per game.

SDSU made good strides toward the end of the season and threw them all away in the MW championship game. The offense is no better than in December and even if the Aztecs miraculously beat St. Johns, No. 1-seeded Duke University is waiting.

“But, SDSU could be a Cinderella …”

Not really. You have to actually score points to win basketball games. Until the Aztecs figure that out, they have no shot making it to the Sweet 16, let alone winning a game.

MARCH 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KRISTIAN IBARRA • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM

MARCH MADNESS PREVIEW 21

#AZTECMBB

Behind the award: Trimaine Davis RAFAEL AVITABILE STAFF WRITER _____________________________________ The San Diego State men’s basketball record books can take you back as far as 1922. Tony Gwynn paced the parquetry from 1977-81, and Michael Cage followed from 1980-84. Former head coach Smokey Gains led SDSU to a Western Athletic Conference title in 1985, but the next 15 years were marred by subpar basketball that included a 2-26 squad in 1992 that finished 0-16 in conference play.

Head coach Steve Fisher, winner of the 1989 National Championship, set up shop in America’s Finest City in 1999 and led his Aztecs to a Mountain West Tournament title in 2002, despite a 7-7 conference record.

The brief history lesson doesn’t come without purpose. It serves as a road map leading to the onset of the career of one of SDSU’s most influential, inspiring and least celebrated players ever, Trimaine Davis.

The name won’t sound familiar, and a browse through the record books won’t ring any bells. Davis’ story is one of grit, grief and misfortune ill enough to break most human souls, but it’s also one of perseverance, pride and human good.

Born to drug-addicted parents before being legally adopted and raised by his grandmother in the small California town of West Pittsburg, Davis was defying the odds before he ever picked up a basketball.

His grandfather stopped attending school in the fifth grade, his grandmother stopped in the sixth grade, and both of his parents, who passed away while he was in high school, never graduated either.

Bigger than Davis’ love for the blacktop was his desire to graduate high school and receive a college education, and in 2001 he became the first in his genealogy to do so.

Fisher first noticed Davis on the AAU circuit the summer before his senior year of high school. At the Adidas Big Time Tournament in Las Vegas, Davis battled future NBA players like Tyson Chandler and Channing Frye. SDSU was the first program to send him an offer.

“When coach Fish came to visit me and my grandmother and my uncle in my home, we hardly talked about basketball,” Davis said. “We talked about life. We talked about what it would mean for my family if I graduated and became the first in my family to get a degree, and that’s what I wanted. I wanted that more than anything else. Coach Fish, from day one, put together a plan in order for me to be successful. He sold me on the challenge of creating something magical at San Diego State — being a pioneer, being a pillar.”

There was no doubt that Davis had the skill to compete at the next level.

However, there were some doubts about his public school education and whether or not he was cut out for the college classroom. It took a sit-down interview with admissions officials on campus for Davis to clear his name. “(The admissions office) didn’t want to admit him,” Fisher said. “They were going to turn him down. They looked at a piece of paper and we looked at the man. Now I think everyone is celebrating what he did when he came here, both with us and with his academics.”

In the spring of 2001, after posting 20.5 points, 14.7 rebounds, and 5.4 blocks per game during his senior campaign, Davis committed to SDSU. A handful of school days was all that stood between Davis and the actualization of his dreams. After all of his work balancing life and basketball

Trimaine Davis had a career 57.5 field goal percentage as an Aztec from 2001-05.

FILE PHOTO

while fighting to reverse the trends in his family’s educational history, Davis was hit with yet another punch.

He was spending the day at a local reservoir with his classmates on Senior Ditch Day when his best friend and teammate, Gregory Ashford, died in a drowning accident just one week before graduation.

Davis and his teammates swore to Ashford’s family that they would always keep his name alive, and one of the ways Davis did so as an Aztec was by wearing No. 20, Ashford’s high school number.

As a redshirt during the 2001-02 season, Davis was described as the team’s biggest cheerleader during its conference-title run. He watched the way former Aztecs like Randy Holcomb and Tony Bland led on the floor and in practice and he never passed on an opportunity to share his own opinion, even as a freshman and sophomore averaging less than seven minutes per game.

Leadership came as a natural strength for Davis, and it extended far beyond the locker room. As much as he was a motivator in Fisher’s huddle, he was an agent for change on the SDSU campus.

Both as a child and later as an African studies major, Davis drew inspiration from athletes such as Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, Tommie Smith and John Carlos because of the impact they had away from their respective playing fields.

He understood that titles and Olympic medals had no substance in the grand scheme of life, and that he couldn’t expect others to come together for change if he wasn’t prepared to do so himself.

“I never wanted to be like Mike growing up,” Davis said. “I didn’t really care too much about Michael Jordan. My spirit in being active comes from my role models.

Those guys all stood for something much bigger than their respective sports. So in my own unique way, I tried my best to mimic that. My philosophy is that whenever I have an observation, I have an obligation. My observation was that we needed to get more together as a unit and a community on campus. My obligation was to make sure that I played a part in making that happen.”

Davis became heavily involved in on-campus life as a member of the Afrikan Student Union, Student African American Brotherhood and the Association of African Studies Majors and Minors, and became increasingly aware of the disconnect between the African American student body and his fellow African American student-athletes.

He preferred to wear his normal street clothes on campus rather than donning his team gear in efforts to blend in at 6-foot-7. It wasn’t an attempt to deflect or evade attention. It was out of genuine concern that he might seem unapproachable to his fellow man in the quads and in the hallways.

During the fall of his junior season, Davis and his friend Michael Franklin, who was the starting running back on the football team at the time, attended a guest lecture series about leadership and involvement on campus. When the topic of student-athletes was brought up, audience members wasted no time offering their opinions on studentathlete lifestyle. One by one they stood up and shared their frustrations, labeling student-athletes and categorizing them with the typical stereotypes.

“We just waited for everyone to get done saying what they had to say,” Davis said. “ And then I stood up. I said, ‘I’m a student-athlete, and I’m here.’ The whole mood changed and in that moment a light bulb went off. We needed to make sure that we had something to let people know that we are a part of this institution as much as anyone else and that we cared about the issues that were going on.”

Davis and Franklin saw their opportunity to change the on-campus culture, and took the first step by creating The Koalition in the spring of 2005, which was a student organization built to provide an open line of communication and a network of support between African-American students and studentathletes.

In exchange for the students’ voice and energy in “The Show,” Davis and other student-athletes across multiple sports vowed to be there when social issues arose on campus.

Throughout all of his extra efforts in the campus community, Davis benefited from unwavering support from his teammates and coaching staff. There was a dialogue between himself and the staff that fostered mutual support and respect.

Davis could tell Fisher about an event and why he thought it was important for him to be there. Sometimes compromises were made, but when the situation called for Davis to be present with the team, he never questioned instruction.

After the Aztecs took a hard loss to the University of New Mexico in the 2005 MW Tournament championship game, the first thing Fisher did when he stepped in the locker room was name Davis the captain for the next year. Davis only averaged around five points and two rebounds per game as a junior, but his blue-collar approach and dedication earned him that title.

As captain in 2006, Davis helped lead the Aztecs to a conference tournament title and its first winning conference record in Fisher’s tenure. His legacy at SDSU was cemented at season’s end when Fisher presented him with the newly titled Trimaine Davis Leadership Award, which he describes as his thirdgreatest accomplishment behind graduating college and establishing the Gregory Ashford Memorial Scholarship at Pittsburg High School.

“It was appropriate because he’s as good of a leader we’ve ever had walk through these doors in our 16 years here,” Fisher said. “He led by example, he led by his commitment, he was tremendous in the locker room, and he’s what you win with. He’s what you win with in athletics and he’s what you win with in life.”

Everything came full circle when later that year Davis became the first studentathlete to win the Presidential Leadership Award presented by the SDSU Associated Students. Among those handing him the award were a few of the same people from the Admissions Office who doubted his academic potential five years prior.

Davis has returned to the Mesa every year since to present the award named after him to outstanding Aztec players.

Brian Carlwell, a former Aztec and recipient of the award in 2011, invited Davis to walk out on the floor with him on his senior night.

“When you put on that that jersey, you are a family,” Davis said. “We’re connected forever. I’m not sure if it’s that way at other institutions but I know for sure it’s that way at San Diego State, and I’m so thankful to be a part of it.”

ALLISON NEUNZIG HAS ASPIRED TO A NURSING CAREER SINCE HIGH SCHOOL, WHEN SHE RECEIVED A PAID SUMMER INTERNSHIP WITH KAISER PERMANENTE. NOW SHE EXCELS AS A NURSING STUDENT AT SAN DIEGO STATE AND IS VICE PRESIDENT OF THE SDSU CALIFORNIA NURSING STUDENTS' ASSOCIATION CHAPTER. THE CAMPAIGN FOR SDSU SUPPORTS FUTURE LEADERS LIKE ALLISON AND HELPS THEM SUCCEED. VISIT CAMPAIGN.SDSU.EDU

classifieds 23

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: monica linzmeier • editor@thedailyaztec.com

CROSSWORDS

Across 1 Ignore the teleprompter 6 Take for a ride, so to speak 10 Pyramid, to Tut 14 Supermodel Klum 15 “Look what I did!”

16 Old-time knife 17 “Full House” star Bob 18 Alphabetically first of the acting Baldwin brothers 19 Sedgwick of “The Closer” 20 McDonald’s freebies 23 Contractor’s approx.

25 Word ending for

enzymes 26 Outcome 27 Multi-day event featuring rainbow flags 31 Alaskan native 32 Forever and a day 33 Opposite of NNE 36 Campus official 37 Willy with a chocolate factory 39 Indian spiced tea 40 Kazakhstan, once: Abbr.

41 For the lady 42 Prankster’s favorite month 43 Ride with wooden horses 46 Scramble, as a secret message

Classifieds

49 Dawn goddess 50 Old AT&T rival 51 Fruit-flavored hard candies 55 Part of Q.E.D. 56 “You hurt?” reply, hopefully 57 Really bad turnout 60 Feel concern 61 Luigi’s “Bye!” 62 Conclude 63 “Faster __ a speeding bullet ...”

64 Tailor’s sewn folds 65 Sidewalk eateries Down 1 Sighs of satisfaction 2 Agcy. with narcs 3 Astronomical distance

4 “I had no __!”

5 Walk-on role 6 Hung around 7 Not windy 8 “Zip-__-Doo-Dah” 9 ‘90s Los del Río dance hit 10 “For shame!”

11 “Shame __!”

12 Two-time Best Actress Oscar winner Streep 13 Beauty’s beau 21 Tire pressure abbr.

22 Popular jeans 23 “Jeepers!”

24 Black Friday deals 28 Many a punch line 29 __-weensy 30 Chinese cookware 33 Doesn’t lose sleep over 34 New Orleans footballer 35 Oscar who quipped, “True friends stab you in the front” 37 Lottery winners’ cry 38 Bobby of hockey 39 Naval noncom: Abbr.

41 Actress Lamarr 42 As, on the periodic table 43 Like lava 44 Colorful little lizards 45 “Impressive!”

46 Cockpit panic button 47 “Little Broken Hearts” singer Jones 48 Civil War nurse Barton 52 Parisian gal pal 53 Linguist Chomsky 54 Gossip columnist Barrett 58 Michelle Obama __ Robinson 59 EMTs’ destinations

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858-273-7946. www.murraycallanswimschools.com PLEASE visit facility and fill out an application. ________________________________

PLEASE NOTE: The Daily Aztec does not endorse or support and has no affiliation with the products or services offered in the Classifieds section. To place an ad in the Classifieds section, please visit thedailyaztec.com/classifieds

For Sale 3 bedroom Townhouse.

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Ron: 619-316-7575 Email: Ronlevenson@yahoo.com ________________________________

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24 the back page

march 16 - 18, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: kelly hillock • features@thedailyaztec.com

#birthdayinvegas

Birthday naps in Vegas kristian ibarra sports editor ____________________________________

M

ost people wouldn’t complain at the prospect of spending any post-21 birthday in Las Vegas. But I’m not like most people (not in the cool, pretentious way, though). In all honesty, the thought of spending the 23rd anniversary of my birth in Sin City wasn’t necessarily my idea of a “happy”

THINKSTOCK

birthday.

And this is coming from a guy who got credentialed to cover Steve Fisher and the San Diego State men’s basketball team during the 2015 Mountain West Tournament while having his room at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino completely covered by the student-run newspaper that is publishing these very words.

Most would color me ridiculous, but hear me out for a second.

I don’t drink alcohol.

I’m broke.

I’m not big on celebrating myself.

While most of my journalism colleagues stowed their reporter hats away for the weekend, I was working.

They would be out and about swimming in an ocean of fanny packs and sockswith-sandals during the day and rubbing elbows with the freaks only Vegas can attract after sundown; I would find myself inside of the Thomas & Mack Center keeping the masses of Aztec faithful informed on the fast-paced madness before the Madness that is conference tournament basketball.

I wasn’t there to have a good time; I was there on business, I told myself.

Inexplicably enough, all of the alcohol-free, thrifty-living birthday hours I spent out in Vegas turned out to be pretty OK. More than OK, actually.

It was Friday the 13th. I walked into the hotel lobby while a batch of familiar

faces welcomed me with a quiet, Kristian-Ibarra-esque “happy birthday.”

There were no streamers. There was no music. They even managed to keep themselves from forcing alcohol down my throat. Just a smile from each one of the 15 or so people I’d come to appreciate over the last 10 months. I even managed to fit a nap into my day. It was perfect.

But as I dreamt the dreams only new 23-year-olds can , I heard the hotel-room door open. Through the gates were about a dozen people (who likely had better things to be doing on a Friday afternoon in Las Vegas) stepped into the room while an offpitch, unsynchronized chorus of “Happy Birthday” filled the air. Lady Boss II walked in with a fire-hazardous cake before reminding me that normal people blow out the candles on their birthday. It was red velvet — my favorite.

The best part? My name was spelled right. Having corrected people all my life (23 years, to be exact), I can only imagine what Lady Boss I and Co. had to go through to make sure the busy folks at Vons got it right.

You have to realize that these people know me. They know that I would have been perfectly content with just being left to myself so I could catch up on reading the latest sports headlines I couldn't keep up with over the weekend.

But they didn't.

By some strange, unwarranted virtue, these people actually care about that sports guy who can't seem to closet any of the wise-guy remarks for more than five minutes at a time. I thank them.

Save a tree. Recycle your paper. #dasnapshots

SUDOKU

HOW TO PLAY: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9.

Difficulty Level:

4/4

CROSSWORDS, SUDOKU, AND HOROSCOPES COURTESY OF TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC., ©2015.

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aztecs all in

Megan Wood snapped this shot of the San Diego State cheering section this weekend in Las Vegas for the MW tournament.

PLEASE NOTE: The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Aztec.

Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com

HOROSCOPE happy Birthday (3/16/15) - Fulfill bold ambitions this year. No playing small! You can do great things with a great team. You're especially strong after the Vernal Equinox eclipses (3/20).

Plan and coordinate your collaboration over springtime before a busy summer.

Navigate a financial turning point after autumn eclipses (10/13 & 10/27) with help from a partner. Together, you can make magic.

HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) - Today is a 7 - Squelch the urge to overspend.

Rely on your teammates to meet a deadline. A female has the numbers.

Associates provide valuable input today and tomorrow. Acknowledge it. Consider the situation objectively for a wonderful discovery. Coast to victory.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 7 - An old method doesn't work in a new situation. Discuss creative, practical options with an expert. Make sure you get the instructions straight. Attend to career goals today and tomorrow. Verify account balances. Minimize the risks.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21) - Today is an 8 - Conditions look good for travel and study today and tomorrow. Get household chores out of the way first.

Recuse yourself, in a conflict of interests.

Don't gossip. Put your head down and get into your work.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 7 - Harmony increases. The next couple of days are good for financial planning and research. Balance the books. Don't waste money on frivolities. Keep some back. An old method doesn't work. Try something new. Seize an opportunity.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is an 8 - Take deep breaths when confronting a barrier. Your partner gets creative. Work together and gain more than expected over the next few days. Don't forget the bottom line. Divvy up proceeds according to your plan. Invest.

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is an 8 - Don't talk about your work, just do it. The pace is getting more intense. The excellent job you've been doing reflects well on you. You bring ideas back down to earth. Avoid chatter and keep a deadline. Carpe diem.

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 7 - Put your heart and talents into your work. Intellect and emotions contribute to the quality. Fun and play are the key elements for professional discovery.

Postpone discussions and meetings.

Immerse yourself in your game.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 6 - Home attracts like a magnet today and tomorrow. Enjoy domesticity. Don't talk back or overspend. Do what you promised. An argument would be a waste of precious time. Get into some fun, and clean up afterwards.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 7 - Relax. Craft your words, but don't deliver them yet. Consider what you want to say. Study and write over the next two days, from home if possible.

Work could interfere with travel. Family can help.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) Today is an 8 - Send invoices and pay bills. Take action to correct a financial misunderstanding or breakdown. Don't make expensive promises. Partnership makes you both stronger. Share resources and your funds go farther.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - The work you do now pays later. Get assertive without stepping on anyone. Avoid provoking jealousies. Stick to your budget. Don't make purchases just yet. Establish the rules. Share responsibilities. You win.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 6 - Take quiet time for yourself today and tomorrow. Allow your thoughts to wander. Devote extra care to your physical well-being. Pamper yourself with peace and beauty. Make plans for an upcoming job, and start it later.