Meet the newcomers of gymnastics No. 3 ranked recruiting class.
D-D Breaux’s championship rings stolen from office, according to LSUPD.
NOTHING TO
GLEAN?
Reactions mixed after LSU’s Office of Disability Services replaces human notetaking with AI
NOTEWORTHY
Disability Services quietly moves to new note-taking accommodations
BY ASHLYN BAILLIO @ashlynnbaillio
LSU’s Office of Disability Services introduced a major change to its note-taking services this semester by replacing the studentpeer note-taking system with Glean, an AI-powered program designed to transcribe lecture audio into searchable notes.
Previously, students registered through Disability Services were paired with peer note-takers who shared their class notes. In exchange, the note-takers received benefits such as priority scheduling and a letter of recommendation. While helpful, this system often faced challenges such as inconsistent note quality, delayed notes and shortages of note-takers in key subjects, said Tracy Blanchard, the director of Disability Services.
“Many students have reported less anxiety about missing critical information and an increased focus on engaging in the class itself,” Blanchard said of the new policy.
The AI-powered tool captures audio from class lectures and transcribes it into notes, making it easier for students to review material in real time.
After a successful pilot program over the summer, Blanchard said, Glean was fully implemented for students this semester. Blanchard explained that the program is designed to safeguard intellectual property, requiring students to sign an agreement prohibiting the sharing of recorded content.
“Glean was chosen for its robust protection of intellectual property and confidentiality,” she said. “Unlike other systems, it prevents recordings from being shared or accessed by other AI platforms.”
The move to Glean aligns LSU with several other major universities, including Harvard, Stanford and many Southeastern Conference schools, which have adopted similar technologies. Case studies from these institutions have shown that programs like Glean help students focus more on class discussions and less on worrying about the quality of their notes, according to Blanchard.
But the transition has not been without challenges, particularly in subjects that rely heavily on visual aids.
“I’m dealing with lots of dia-
grams where my teachers are writing on the board, and Glean can’t really capture that,” computer science senior Brandon Facey said. He continued, frustrated by the limitations of an AI-based system, saying that for students in math, science and other courses where visual demonstrations are integral, Glean’s audio-only transcription often falls short.
Facey contacted Disability Services to request a traditional peer note-taker. Its office informed him that peer note-taking is now reserved primarily for students who are deaf or blind.
According to Blanchard, while peer note-taking is still an option, students must apply for it through Disability Service’s website, and applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility for the accommodation.
In addition to the program’s functionality, the roll out of Glean has raised concerns among faculty members about communication and implementation. While Disability Services contacted students in May to prepare them for the new system, many professors were caught off guard by the change.
“None of the faculty in the Department of History had any idea,” said Catherine Jacquet, a
professor of history and women’s, gender and sexuality studies.
Jacquet, who also serves on LSU’s Faculty Senate, noted that no other faculty members she spoke to had been informed about Glean before it was implemented.
“They told us about it in passing at the Manship Faculty Retreat in August,” said Will Mari, a professor in the Manship School of Mass Communication. “Usually for a major classroom tool intervention, there’s a lot of rollout. Typically, I’m more used to about three months’ heads-up for these kinds of things. This time, it just kind of arrived.”
Despite Disability Service’s concerns with the peer notetaking system, some professors reported fewer issues with it than they have experienced with Glean. Jacquet mentioned that in her larger classes– seating over 100 students– she usually had multiple peer note-takers, and students often reported that the system worked well for them.
Jacquet and Mari also raised concerns about the ethical implications of recording lectures, particularly in classes dealing with sensitive subject matter.
“I’m very uncomfortable having AI record our classes,” Jacquet said. “Whether that’s my lectures or our class discussions, I don’t know what that AI company is going to do with my lectures.”
Jacquet teaches an upper-level course and fears the program could discourage open conversation.
“We’re having intense conversations, and I think some of the things students are working
through – those are probably things they don’t want recorded and out in the world,” she said. Mari echoed these concerns, noting that the app could have a “chilling effect” on classroom discussions.
“There’s a freedom of speech issue,” he said. “There’s a chilling effect issue and ultimately, there’s the issue with whether or not this thing even works.”
Mari said students have reported technical difficulties with the app. “I think what’s been tough for the students is that the app itself, if they do try to use it, is not great,” he said.
Despite these concerns, Blanchard remains confident in Glean’s ability to improve accessibility and safeguard intellectual property.
“It prevents recordings from being shared or accessed by other AI platforms,” she reiterated.
Despite the concerns raised by students and faculty, Disability Services is standing by Glean, emphasizing its ability to enhance accessibility and protect intellectual property. While the transition from peer note-takers has faced challenges – particularly in courses reliant on visual aids and the concerns over classroom recordings – Disability Services maintains that Glean will provide long-term benefits for students by offering more consistent and immediate access to notes.
As other universities adopt similar technologies, LSU’s stance reflects a broader shift toward AI-driven solutions in higher education, perhaps leaving it to be seen whether the program can fully meet the diverse needs of its student body.
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The front page photograph on the 1111-24 edition of the Reveille featuring the LSU vs. Alabama football game was inaccurately attributed. Staff photographer Alexis Persicke took the photo.
CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS ABOUT THE REVEILLE
The Reveille is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Reveille is an independent entity of the Office of Student Media within the Manship School of Mass Communication. A single issue of The Reveille is free from multiple sites on campus and about 25 sites off campus. To obtain additional copies, please visit the Office of Student Media in B-39 Hodges Hall or email studentmedia@ lsu.edu. The Reveille is published biweekly during the fall, spring and summer semesters, except during holidays and final exams. The Reveille is funded through LSU students’ payments of the Student Media fee.
MATTHEW PERSCHALL / The Reveille
Johnston Hall sits Feb. 8 on Field House Drive on LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge, La.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GLEAN
Gov. Jeff Landry condemns LSU Law professor, sparks debate
BY SAMAIA SINGH
@SamaiaSingh
Gov. Jeff Landry sparked controversy after publicly criticizing an LSU professor on social media for his comments about students who voted for Donald Trump in the recent presidential election.
The video Landry shared featured Nicholas Bryner, an associate professor of law, addressing his class about the implications of voting for Trump and how such choices might affect others’ perceptions.
NEWS MESSED UP
In his remarks, Bryner noted that many Black students feel uncomfortable at the law school and suggested that support for Trump’s policies may contribute to this discomfort.
Landry, an outspoken Trump supporter known for using hashtags like #OnlyTrumpWill on social media, captioned his post with sharp criticism: “This professor has defied the 76 million Americans who voted for President Trump ... This is not the kind of behavior we want at LSU and our universities.”
The response from the public has been divided. Supporters of the professor praised his candor, with one commenting, “Thank you, Professor Bryner, for speaking truth. We appreciate you at our school.”
Meanwhile, others sided with Landry, expressing that such discussions don’t belong in academia, with one remarking, “Should not be at LSU teaching nor anywhere else.” Some called for neutrality in the classroom, stating, “No! Keep your politics out of the classroom.”
World-class fans and world-class trash pile up on gameday
BY CADE SAVOY
LSU is a perennial football powerhouse. It may not seem it after the team’s recent losses to Texas A&M, Alabama and Florida, but the Tigers have held strong as one of the country’s most well-known football teams for decades. Death Valley evokes fear in the hearts of rival teams, and LSU’s tailgates are widely regarded as legendary.
But with a world-class football team, world-class tailgates and world-class fans comes world-class mess. Anyone who has driven down Highland Road the morning after a home game has borne witness to this dirty truth: LSU fans are messy.
According to LSU Landscape Services Director Jeff Brocato, in the wake of LSU’s Oct. 12 victory against Ole Miss, LSU Facility Services harvested 52 tons of solid waste material. On an average home game weekend, Facility Services can expect to harvest around 30 tons of garbage.
So, how does Facility Services get campus spick and span again by Monday morning?
Brocato offered some insights.
“The process begins several months before football even starts. We have a meeting with the Athletic Department, and we let them know what supplies we’re going to need,” he said. “This year, we have roughly 5,300 trash cans and recycle bins that we typically put out for a game. We use 14 trailers to put those out.”
Given the magnitude of resources Facility Services has at their disposal, distributing trash cans and recycle bins across campus requires careful coordination.
“Friday morning at 4:00 a.m., two staff members begin staging trash cans in strategic locations on campus, which we break up into eight zones. Saturday morning, roughly 40 to 50 staff members arrive at four, break into eight groups, go out to those eight zones, and begin bagging and deploying the cans into each zone,” Brocato said.
Facility Services staff stay on campus throughout game day collecting trash, emptying full garbage receptacles and assisting fans in throwing away waste products.
This is quite a daunting task: Brocato estimates that on any given game day, 150,000 people roam around campus. No doubt, Facility Service staff members do their best to clean up before game days end. But, as Brocato puts it, “it’s impos -
BY QUINN MARCEAUX @quinnmarceaux
In their final debate showdown before the Dec. 7 runoff election, Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and challenger Coach Emile “Sid” Edwards offered voters starkly different visions for the future of Baton Rouge.
The debate, held Tuesday night, centered on pressing issues such as public safety, infrastructure and the city’s socioeconomic challenges. Broome, seeking a third and final term, touted her record as a leader who has delivered tangible progress, while Edwards, the dean of students and head football coach at Istrouma High School, positioned himself as the change candidate promising fresh energy and unity for a divided city.
Public safety emerged as the central theme, with both candidates addressing the city’s ongoing struggle with crime. Broome defended her administration’s efforts, citing raises and new vehicles for the Baton Rouge Police Department, alongside initiatives like Safe, Hopeful, Healthy, which aims to address the root causes of crime.
“We have been moving the needle on crime, but it is my goal to make sure people do feel safe. We recognize that crime is a socioeconomic issue; it’s very complex, so we have been working to empower law enforcement and community programs. When we do this, we find that there is a reduction that takes place with that emphasis,” Broome said.
Edwards, however, painted a more bleak picture of safety in Baton Rouge. He advocated for more officers on the streets, stronger community relationships and improved police resources.
He emphasized the need for hope and opportunities rather than punitive measures, highlighting inadequate equipment as an ongoing challenge.
“Quite honestly I do not feel like the city is overall safe right now. I’m in the North Baton Rouge area where I work, and the trauma, despair and hopelessness I see when I peel the curtain back is incredible,” Edwards said.
Both candidates tackled infrastructure issues like traffic congestion and the need for a new Mississippi River bridge. Broome emphasized the synchronization of 90% of traffic lights under her leadership and touted her progress in fixing traffic congestion problems around Baton Rouge. She embraced her reputation as an “infrastructure mayor” and looked ahead to future projects with citizen input.
Edwards criticized the pace of progress and proposed traffic solutions such as closing the Washington Street exit off the interstate and adding lanes to Airline Highway to relieve congestion on I-10 and I-12. While both agreed on the necessity of a new bridge, they differed on timelines and planning approaches, with Edwards voicing concerns over public input on its location.
“I think the big thing is that nobody wants it running through their neighborhood. It’s such a fight on where the location of it is. I think the question is, ‘Where is that bridge going to be put?’ But will it help? It only can,” Edwards said.
On the controversial proposal to merge the BRPD with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Edwards expressed opposition but called for collaboration among
Coach’s championship rings stolen
BY JOHN BUZBEE @thebuzzbuz
Approximately 40 championship rings earned by LSU’s storied gymnastics coach, Sara “D-D” Breaux, are missing from LSU’s Athletic Administration Building.
An LSU Police Department report reads that the stolen rings are valued over $3,000. The report called this a case of simple burglary.
Breaux, in the police report, noted the brown display case that houses the rings was missing on Thursday, Nov. 14. She could last confirm that the case was in her office Thursday, Nov. 7.
There are no known suspects, according to LSUPD which has begun an investigation.
Breaux, often called the “Dean of Coaches,” retired in 2020 after 43
An LSU spokesman redirected
This is a developing story.
ERIN BARKER / The Reveille
Overflowing garbage cans sit on the LSU Parade Ground after tailgating on Sept. 24, 2022, in Baton Rouge, La.
seasons of gymnastics. She was the longest tenured coach in any SEC sport
inquiries to LSUPD. Athletics did not immediately respond to questions from the Reveille.
FRANCIS DINH / The Reveille
Former LSU gymnastics head coach D-D Breaux cheers on the LSU gymnastics team April 15, 2023, during the 2023 Women’s National Collegiate Gymnastics Championship in the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Tx.
LSU researchers discover ancient Mayan structure in southern Belize
BY SHELBY VARGA @shelbyvarga
The archaeology lab in the Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex is filled with hundreds of boxes of wood from the buildings of the ancient Maya civilization, representing years of work by LSU alumna and Professor Heather McKillop and her research team.
Together, McKillop, Elizabeth Sills from the University of Texas at Tyler and a team of students mapped over 4,000 wooden posts from more than 70 saltwork sites. These sites were the foundations of buildings preserved below the seafloor in the shallow coastal lagoons of southern Belize. McKillop said LSU has evidence of the only wooden buildings from the ancient Maya civilization.
At the end of their research trip in June 2023, McKillop told Sills she wanted to excavate Site 71, called Jay-yi Nah, which wasn’t a part of their original plan. They excavated the site, and McKillop stayed in town after everyone had left because their findings perplexed her.
McKillop explained different sites in the lagoon had superior artifacts and more advanced
An
technologies than those found at Jay-yi Nah despite being very close to the other sites.
“These people had really crappy material; the pottery is different from other sites, they don’t have any trade goods, there are no little figurine whistles, no stamp decorations. They didn’t have any really nice things,” McKillop said about Site 71.
However, McKillop said it all became clear after receiv-
DEBATE, from page 3
stakeholders to develop the best plan. Broome considered the idea premature, citing unanswered questions and a lack of readiness to move forward. Both candidates commended the current BRPD chief, with Edwards indicating no immediate plans for changes in leadership if he was elected.
“There are still a lot of unknowns as it relates to the proposal, like the cost involved,” Broome said. “I will tell you we have already taken some steps towards efficiency involving our
BRPD and our Sheriff’s Department. Right now I do not think we are in a position to move forward on that concept.”
Edwards also addressed the city’s divisions head-on, promising to “break the chains of division” and unify Baton Rouge. He acknowledged the struggles of residents in high-crime areas and stressed the importance of job creation and investment in underserved communities. Edwards envisions a parish where residents support one another and work together, something he says he will make happen.
TRASH, from page 3
sible to pick everything up.”
Enter Sunday morning pickup. Here again, Facility Services begins their work at 4:00 a.m.
“Roughly 110 to 120 will break up into eight groups and start dragging trash cans to the streets so the trash trucks can get to them. They’ll also start canvassing their zones and picking up the loose litter,” Brocato said.
Thanks to help from contractors like Baton Rouge Public Services and RCI, Facility Services reliably gets campus back to normal by the start of the work week. But their work is long and grueling.
“The average Sunday pickup normally takes 8 to 14 hours — and sometimes it’s even longer,” Brocato said.
ity Services had become overburdened by trash pickup, Brocato responded politely.
“I think LSU has the best fans in the world. We’ve developed a good relationship with the fans over the years, and the Athletic Department does their best to give us all the resources we need to do a good job,” he said.
Overburdened or not — and whether LSU has the best fans in the world or not — 52 tons of garbage in one weekend is concerning. And considering that the EPA quantifies that around half of garbage in the United States ends up in a landfill, the LSU fandom’s environmental footprint is wide-reaching.
Trash pickup is hard work, and it’s what helps keep LSU’s campus clean.
ing the radiocarbon dating of a wooden post sample from Jayyi Nah, which signaled the site was from the Early Classical period, around 250-600 A.D. This became the only Early Classical site McKillop’s team had ever excavated, and it explained why the site’s artifacts were less advanced than those at other sites.
Jay-yi Nah was a bit farther out in the lagoon than other sites, hinting that the sea level may have risen. By the late classical period – from 650-800 A.D. – the people at Jay-yi Nah probably decided to move further back.
LSU students have made an enormous contribution to McKillop’s research as well. There are six undergraduates and two graduate students who work in the lab, most of whom just started this fall.
To identify or date the wood fragments, they first need to desalinate them, leaving them in water for two weeks. The students are responsible for changing the water and keeping it fresh so the wood doesn’t deteriorate. Without this process, the salt in the objects would come to the surface, expanding and cracking the object.
Jalayne Allison, a junior studying anthropology, dries the wood using tin foil and an oven, leaving it for weeks to dry out and archive for future use. GradENVIRONMENT
“We are absolutely divided. We’re not together, absolutely divided. I am a unifier, I am a healer and I plan on bringing people together to try and get this thing together,” Edwards said.
Broome focused on the city’s strengths, describing Baton Rouge as a community rich in culture, assets and strong people. She highlighted efforts to foster neighborhood connections through initiatives like the Neighborhood Convention and Summer of Hope, which Broome’s office started to bring communities together.
On Monday morning, Facility Services, Landscape Services and the Athletic Department always convene for a post-game meeting to discuss how to improve trash pickup for the next home game, and the cycle continues.
When asked whether Facil-
uate student Sarah Miller said she supervises undergraduate student workers and works in the Wood Identification Lab for Mayan Archeology. Miller uses a microscope to identify wood species based on their unique structures.
McKillop said that student workers who work hard and prove themselves can be invited on their Belize trip to be an even more significant part of the research. Students are given extra space to study in the lab, personal places to store their belongings and are even paid to take swimming lessons, which will benefit them during their time in Belize.
“We have a safe place here.” McKillop said. “Safe from politics, safe from the outside world.”
McKillop said she stays in touch with many former students who worked on the project with her. On her first trip back to the site, she even invited students who could not go to Belize during the COVID-19 pandemic.
LSU’s research has also greatly influenced the community in Belize. McKillop and the team stay with a host family on a remote organic chocolate farm, where they are the only people
“We have an image problem in how we think about ourselves. When I bring in other mayors from other communities into Baton Rouge, they love Baton Rouge. We have got to accentuate our assets. We’ve got to create and reimagine our identity. We have a lot of strengths in this community,” Broome said.
In closing, the candidates reflected their campaign themes. Broome emphasized her experience, accomplishments and vision of making Baton Rouge the “best mid-sized city in the country.”
“My biggest honor has been
So before the next tailgate — be it LSU’s matchup against Vanderbilt this Saturday or any future home game — Brocato offered some words of advice: “Every little bit helps. The more time fans hang around and help clean up, the better campus is, and the easier our job becomes.”
living in the area. The nearest town is Punta Gorda, and McKillop said her team always tries to support the community by eating out at restaurants and buying groceries locally.
The team began creating exhibits for the community in 2012 after receiving a site preservation grant from the Archaeological Institute of America to protect this significant archaeological site.
“The community is very much vested in what we do and what we find,” McKillop said.
An exhibit is also located at the Rangers station near their excavations. It was purposely placed there so boat drivers could be hired to take people to the station, ultimately helping community members make more money.
McKillop said there are many sites they have yet to be able to excavate, but she plans to return to Belize in the spring during a sabbatical. Her graduate students, like Miller, have written grant proposals to go as well. McKillop said she would also take two or three undergraduates, like Allison, who have proven themselves hard workers who love what they do.
serving as your mayor-president,” Broome said. “I believe the future is bright for Baton Rouge.”
Edwards leaned into his outsider status, offering fresh energy and hope while positioning himself as the candidate for change.
“I am the change candidate. If Baton Rouge is ready to win again, push the button for the coach,” Edwards said.
With the runoff being held on Dec. 7, and early voting starting this Friday, Nov. 22, voters will soon decide which vision they believe is best for Baton Rouge’s future.
PHOTO COURTESY OF E. C. SILLS
excavation grid marks an area of high-density pottery on the sea floor.
SHELBY VARGA / The Reveille
Hundreds of containers filled with ancient Mayan wood sit in the anthropology lab in the LSU Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex in Baton Rouge, La.
ENTERTAINMENT ONLY CHAPTER ONE
LSU sophomore and first-generation college student publishes first book at 20 years old
BY EMILY BRACHER @ emily_bracher_
Ten-year-old Tyhlar Holliway knew what she was going to be from an early age: a writer.
“Hi. I’m back. Did you miss me?” she wrote in her fourth-grade journal. “Now I know what I want to be, which is a writer. I love to write, so this was easy for me to pick.”
Now, at 20 years old, the LSU student has become a published author.
Holliway released her first book “Navigating the Maze: The High Schooler’s Roadmap to College Readiness” on Nov. 11, 2024. The book is a guide to help high school students have a successful transition into college. With 100 pages divided into eight chapters, it’s a quick and insightful read that progresses from advice for freshman to seniors.
Holliway’s choice in the amount of chapters was purposeful, since the number eight represents new beginnings.
The main goal of her book is to explain how high school can be perceived as a maze, but one that can be successfully ventured through with guidance. Chapter one is about getting started as a freshman. This chapter answers questions on friendships, involvement, classes and more, which is used to guide students to finding their passion. Holliway writes about balancing challenging classes, while highlighting the importance of taking a break.
“The book is designed to be a companion that offers practical strategies, motivational stories that come from my life in high school
and also insights to help high school students navigate throughout college,” Holliway said.
The final chapters in the book are focused on seniors, whether they are working on applications or already admitted into their dream school. As a first generation college student, Holliway includes tips on creating an excellent resume and how to piece together all of their accomplishments from high school into one place.
Holliway started writing her book during the summer, the idea coming from her mentor, Assistant District Attorney Britney Green. Back home in Shreveport, Holliway was acted as a mentor for students at her former high school, offering advice from her personal experience as a first generation student,with a full ride to LSU.
Green made Holliway realize that since she was already a mentor, she should put her insightful ideas into words.
“She pushed the ideas, and I grasped onto it,” Holliway said.
From there, she was partnered with the founder and CEO of “Dawn of a New Day 365” and 10time award winning author, Dawn Charleston-Green. The two met up around twice a week throughout the summer to work on the book. During the summer months, it was easier to knock more writing and editing out. Once the fall semester started, the English and political science double major on the prelaw track, went from chapters being produced weekly to monthly.
Despite moments that challenged her, Holliway said everything she did constantly reminded her of her purpose. Even when things were slow, she remembered
that this book was bigger than herself, and the book would be helping other people who were once in her shoes.
“After she returned to school, we adjusted our schedule, but her determination to complete the project never waivered,” Charleston-Green said.
Originally from Mansfield, Louisiana, now residing in Grovetown, Georgia, Charleston-Green mentors aspiring young authors through her Rising Author Academy. She has written five books and won awards such as the 2022 Best Book Award Finalist for her books
“5-Day Morning C.O.F.F.E.E.” and “Heeeyy Dandelion,” along with the 2023 Golden Wizard Book Prize for “Rudy the Smart Kid.” Beyond being an author, she is a disabled veteran with 11 years of service in the United States Army.
Charleston-Green was first connected with Holliway during her internship at the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office with Brittany Green. Despite not having any relation at all, the Green’s both are from Mansfield, attended Northwestern State University and served in the military. She said Holliway stood out as an intern, and she was easy to work with, as she already had the outline and goals for what she wanted to accomplish.
“Working with someone as driven as Tyhlar strengthens my own commitment to the process,” Charleston-Green said.
The process of publishing starts with having an idea and being intentional about saying it well. Then, you educate yourself on the publishing process such as copywriting, formatting, printing, dis -
Tyhlar Holliway posing with her book “Navigating
Schooler’s Roadmap to College Readiness.”
tribution, branding, marketing and more. Charleston-Green emphasized that her authors identify their “Advanced Readers”, who get to read the book before its published.
“This group of people are individuals who receive early access to review the manuscript for content alignment, structural consistency and aesthetics,” Charleston-Green said. “These readers also provide valuable testimonials that can be used for pre-marketing efforts, making this step a crucial part of the publishing process.”
Holliway’s next step is bringing her book to her old high school to further her mentorship over winter break. This is so students who have read the book or are working on reading the book, have the ability to ask her questions that might not be fully clear in the text. She does not only want it to be a book, but a conversation.
“It was so surreal that when I was 10-years-old I was like ‘I am going to be a writer,’” Holliway said. “Now, I am an actual writer, publishing a book.”
The history behind former LSU President Thomas D. Boyd
BY CARL DEXTER @carldexter2005
Sitting prominently on the northern side of LSU’s Memorial Tower, Thomas D. Boyd Hall is one of the two Boyd Halls that stand on either side of the tower.
Not only does the building house university resources like the Office of the University Registrar, Human Resources, Academic Affairs and Bursar Operations, but the building also memorializes a distinguished figure in LSU history.
Thomas D. Boyd Hall was one of the earliest buildings on campus. It was constructed in 1924, just one year after the Memorial Tower and 20 years after the Journalism Building, the first building to enter campus. In LSU’s early years, buildings were constructed in the image of the Quadrangle.
The broader campus aims to reflect the same atmosphere and aesthetics as seen in the Quad.
LSU’s design guidebook, “Facility Design Standards & Specifications,” serves as instructions for new construction and renovation on campus. The purpose is to respect the Italian Renaissance heritage of the architecture in the Quadrangle and maintain the feel of these distinctive buildings.
Boyd Hall, as required by the text, shares the classic architectural elements of original LSU buildings, featuring arches that reflect the sheltered walkways of the Quad, red Spanish-style clay tile on the roof and stucco exterior walls.
Hundreds of students walk past Boyd Hall on their journeys across campus, yet only a few students or
see BOYD, page 7
COURTESY OF TYHLAR HOLLIWAY
the Maze: The High
JULIAN COOPER/ The Reveille
Thomas D. Boyd Halls sits on Feb. 2, 2022, on LSU’s campus on Tower Drive in Baton Rouge, La.
BY SAMAIA SINGH @SamaiaSingh
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck rolling into Baton Rouge with themed desserts and merchandise
to 7 p.m.
Hello Kitty fans in Baton Rouge are in for a treat this weekend: the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is making its way to the city on Nov. 23.
For one day only, the iconic pink food truck will park at the Mall of Louisiana, offering a fun and unique experience for fans of all ages. The truck can be found between Soma and Co lumbia Sportswear from 10 a.m.
The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is a mobile pop-up cafe that travels across the country, bringing the beloved Sanrio character to life in a variety of themed sweet treats. The truck offers a one-ofa-kind experience for fans who
of Hello Kitty-themed merchandise like tote bags, mugs and plush toys, perfect for fans looking to take home a little piece of the magic.
Whether you’re a lifelong Hello Kitty enthusiast or discovering her charm for the first time, the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck promises a fun-filled experience for the everyone. Be sure to stop by and snap a few photos with the truck and your favorite treats—it’s sure to be a memorable stop this holiday season.
BOYD, from pageg 6
faculty know the history behind Thomas D. Boyd and why he is featured on one of the most prominent buildings on campus. Out of nine, only one member of the faculty in Thomas D. Boyd Hall was familiar with Boyd.
“I do know he served as Interim President of LSU between 18861887, then he served as President from 1896-1926,” Ryan T. Landry, the assistant and vice provost for policy and administration, said. “He was the brother of earlier LSU President David Boyd.
Thomas D. Boyd was the youngest of nine siblings. Born in Virginia, he moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana in 1868 to attend the Louisiana State Seminary (former title of LSU) following a catastrophic fire that destroyed the original building in Pineville. At the time, his brother, David F. Boyd was serving as the institution’s second-ever superintendent.
“During Thomas Boyd’s presidency, LSU’s present campus in Baton Rouge was established, and
several administrative reorganizations took place establishing new academic departments,” Landry said.
Boyd studied law under a judge in Virginia and worked as a civil engineer before he was offered a position as a mathematics professor at only 19. He stayed with the university during struggling times when no money was being sent from the state and the class size went as low as five cadets.
In 1875, Thomas Boyd was appointed as commandant of cadets where he remained for seven years before transitioning to improving the Louisiana Public School System with his wife Annie Boyd, who has another building on campus named after her.
Boyd became the president of the Louisiana Normal School in Natchitoches, where he was responsible for the first educational outreach in the state and for allowing women to pursue an education, something that had never been acknowledged by Louisiana educators prior.
In 1896, Boyd took over as
LSU’s president from his brother, David Boyd. During his reign, Thomas Boyd expanded the university from what was once a class of five cadets to over 1,500 students. Boyd expanded the academic programs offered at LSU to fields such as engineering, agriculture and the sciences, fulfilling LSU’s land-grant mission to offer practical and technical education alongside the traditional arts and sciences.
“Between 1906 and 1908, Thomas D. Boyd led LSU’s responses to Tulane’s challenges to its state funding and curriculum, transforming the school from a small college with a vaguely STEM emphasis for its all-male students into the university we know,” Paul E. Hoffman, a former LSU history professor and author of, Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College, 18601919, A History, writes. “A decade later he played a role in securing the state funding for the land LSU now occupies, completing the institution’s answers to the Tulane challenges of 1906-08.”
FOOTBALL
SPORTS SUITED UP
LSU football to wear gold jerseys
BY JASON WILLIS @JasonWillis4
For the first time since 2016, the LSU football team will be wearing gold jerseys.
LSU is one of the most traditional programs in the nation when it comes to uniforms. The Tigers stick almost exclusively to white jerseys with gold pants, whether the team is playing home or away.
There have been alternates over the years, and LSU has worn purple jerseys with both gold and white pants, as well as an all-white combo during the Brian Kelly era.
However, there are many fans out there who are staunch critics of LSU alternate jerseys, opting instead to favor tradition.
On the other hand, many people have been clamoring for gold jerseys, and their requests have finally been answered.
Saturday against Vanderbilt will mark the first time LSU has worn gold since it played Mississippi State in 2016 in mustard gold. Before that, the Tigers wore gold in 1996, 1997 and 1998.
LSU wore gold for the first time in 1996 against Vanderbilt because the Commodores wouldn’t allow the Tigers to wear their traditional white jersey as the away team. Now LSU is reprising the gold jerseys against the same opponent.
The jerseys are now available for purchase on LSU’s online shop and in the on-campus Barnes & Noble.
LSU will wear white helmets and pants with the jerseys.
Matt McMahon and men’s basketball outdoes Charleston
GYMNASTICS
Gymnastics signs 3 star recruits
BY AINSLEY FLOOD @ainsleyflood
LSU gymnastics has struck again, this time landing some of the most coveted gymnasts in the country.
Back in September, the program managed to sway 16-yearold Olympian and recent gold medalist Hezly Rivera to commit to the 2026 squad.
On Wednesday Nov. 13, National Signing Day, the reigning champs took the No. 3 recruiting class with three new five-star additions to their 2025-26 roster: Haley Mustari, Nina Ballou and Elyse Wenner.
The announcements were made by LSU gymnastics in several social media posts. So who are these new recruits?
BY ETHAN STENGER @itsethanstenger
LSU men’s basketball head coach Matt McMahon took the stand on Tuesday night at the PMAC in a suit.
His team beat Charleston Southern 77-68 to improve to 4-0 for the first time in two years.
McMahon first donned the dapper look, tie and all, during the Tigers’ 95-60 opening night victory over Louisiana-Monroe on Nov. 6 to honor a mentor he met during his seven-year head coaching career at Murray State.
“Are we going to get treated to this young Jay Wright look more of the season?” a reporter joked with McMahon.
“This tie right here, this means a lot to me,” McMahon explained as he began to grab at it with his left hand. “A mentor of mine, a great man, Larry Suiter in Murray, Ken-
tucky, passed away 10 days ago, and he really impacted my life and my family’s life.”
Three days later, McMahon was below the student section at LSU football’s tilt against Alabama. Multiple students told McMahon they would wear a suit for Sunday’s showdown against Alabama State if he did the same.
The very next day, McMahon was seen on the floor wearing a tuxedo in the Bayou Bengals’ comefrom-behind 74-61 win against Alabama State.
“Today, we just kept it going,” McMahon said regarding Tuesday night’s game day fit.
After the win, McMahon celebrated with the students, similar to what he did following the first two victories.
McMahon is doing everything he can to get purple and gold fans to buy into this team, including winning.
LSU was trailing at the half, 3429, similar to the 32-26 deficit the Tigers faced at the midway mark of their comeback victory over Alabama State. But like its matchup with the Hornets, McMahon’s squad settled in, sealed up on defense and scored when it mattered most.
Vyctorius Miller did all he could to be victorious on Tuesday night versus Charleston Southern. The freshman’s aggressiveness helped him notch a team-high 19 points on 9-14 (64.3%) shooting on the night while consistently beating the Buccaneer defenders to the bucket.
Miller spearheaded the Bayou Bengals’ 34 bench points, as his effort and play also inspired his teammates to go rim-running.
“First thing is it starts off in practice,” Miller said. “I feel like I be stacking great days in practice, and it only leads on to the court.
see MEN’S WIN, page 9
Haley Mustari
From Edmond, Oklahoma, Mustari trains with Dynamo Gymnastics and is a four-time national champion with three of those titles in uneven bars. Most recently, she was the 2023 all-around champion and took home gold on the balance beam for the first time this summer.
The Oklahoma native opted not to stay close to home and go with six-time national champion Oklahoma, instead deciding to go for gold with No. 1 LSU. Although unable to convince Mustari, Oklahoma did land the top two recruits of the 2025 class.
“I chose LSU because of the team culture, the incredible fan base and because the moment I stepped on campus, it felt like home,” said Mustari in a LSU gymnastics Instagram post.
Former LSU pitcher Paul Skenes wins MLB Rookie of the Year
BY MARTIN SULLIVAN @marty_sulli
Former LSU pitcher Paul Skenes was named MLB National League Rookie of the Year on Monday night.
The former No. 1 overall pick of the 2023 MLB draft spent less than a year in the minor leagues before making his professional debut. From the first pitch, it was clear that Skenes’ skills translated. His composure, situational IQ and deep pitching arsenal carried him to one of the best rookie seasons ever.
Skenes debuted in the MLB on May 11 and started in 23 games throughout the season. Skenes finished the season with an 11-3 record and a 1.96 ERA in 133 innings
with 32 walks and 170 strikeouts.
In Four of Skenes’ starts he allowed two hits or less, when pitching at least five innings. This includes a six inning no hitter in his second start and a seven inning no hitter in July against the Brewers.
Skenes established himself so quickly and so emphatically that he became the fifth rookie ever to start in the All-Star game.
There has not been a pitcher in the live ball era to start as many games as Skenes and hold a lower ERA. He led the National League in strikeouts per nine innings, walks and hits, ERA and strikeout rate minus walk rate, among pitchers with at least 130 innings.
Skenes joins 1948 Braves shortstop Alvin Dark as the only
Rookie of the Year winners in LSU baseball history.
Skenes is also a finalist for Cy Young in the National League, which will be announced Wednesday. He would be the first ever former LSU Tiger to win it.
The coaching of Jay Johnson has instilled poise and veteran composure to Skenes game. This combined with his signature splinker and a fastball that stays over 100 as his pitch count reaches the triple digits is unbeatable.
Rookie of the Year is well deserved for Skenes but does not sum up just how historic his first year in the MLB was. Pitching at an elite level at just 22 years old is incredibly rare, making estimations of the heights he can reach almost futile.
MALEAH BOURGEOIS / The Reveille
LSU men’s basketball head coach Matt McMahon and associate head coach David Patrick discuss game strategy during their season opening 95-60 win against University of Louisiana at Monroe on Nov. 6, in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, La.
MATTHEW PERSCHALL / The Reveille LSU baseball junior pitcher Paul Skenes (20) throws the ball June 2, during LSU’s 7-2 victory against Tulane at Alex Box Stadium in Baton Rouge, La.
CLAP YOUR HANDS
Why do college quarterbacks clap for the ball?
BY ETHAN STENGER @itsethanstenger
The NCAA rules Saturdays, while the NFL owns Sundays. That’s just the way it is.
Both levels hold a collective monopoly on all the football played across America on the weekends, and both have slight distinctions in how the game is played. One of these distinctions is how the quarterback hikes the ball.
In the NCAA, collegiate quarterbacks clap before signaling to their center to snap the ball. But in the NFL, pro quarterbacks use a cadence, which can identify the defense, allow many adjustments before the play, and help the rest of the offense sync up with the play’s timing by dictating when the ball will be snapped. A quarterback’s cadence includes the tone of their voice, what they’re saying and their body movements wrapped up into one.
Cadences are used in the NFL because the league has nearly completely eradicated the clap
MEN’S WIN, from page 8
My teammates built confidence in me out the gate, and they know what I can do.”
Jordan Sears’ sharp handles helped him find his shot all night. Whether it was a drive, mid-range or three-pointer, Sears shot 5-12 (41.6%) for 15 points in the victory.
RECRUITS, from page 8
Mustari has nine perfect scores to her name, eight of which were in bars, and owns more than 25 finishes in the top 100. She is the No. 10 recruit in the country.
“Signing to LSU is a dream come true,” Mustari explained in the post. “This amazing opportunity is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice and determination, and I could not be more excited to join this special program.”
Nina Ballou
Ballou comes from Boca Raton, Florida and American Twisters Gymnastics with an impressive level 10 career. Like Mustari, Ballou could have gone with the in-state option, No. 4 Florida, but chose to bring her talents to Baton Rouge next fall.
“I come from a long line of LSU fans and the atmosphere just made me feel right at home,” Ballou said in the shared post. “The culture, community and family aspects that come out of this program and school are unmatched.”
Ballou was the 2022 allaround champion and has since achieved gold in floor exercise
ERIN BARKER / The Reveille LSU football junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) prepares to receive a snapped ball on Nov. 9, during LSU’s 42-13 loss to Alabama at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, La.
snap from its game.
In the 2019 NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals took Kyler Murray with the first overall pick. Murray was a clapping culprit in college, and that carries on wih Arizona as shotgun formations were prominent in Kliff Kingsbury’s air raid offense.
With 12 minutes left, Charleston Southern was turned away with a Daimion Collins block. The ball began bouncing out of bounds until Sears flew into the frame to save the day, the ball and the two points on the other end of the court.
Somehow, Dji Bailey was there for it.
“I just kind of tried to make
in 2023 and double-gold in floor and bars in 2024. Her personal best score of 39.150 in the allaround sets her among the best level 10 gymnasts today.
All together, Ballou is a fivetime national champion, threetime qualifier for the Nastia Liukin Cup, and the No. 7 recruit of her class.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for so many years and it feels so full circle for me,” said Ballou. “I can’t wait to be a part of such a legendary team and make unforgettable memories over the next four years.”
Elyse Wenner
All the way from Breinisville, Pennsylvania, Wenner is a production of Stallone Gymnastics with multiple national titles to her name on beam and vault.
“The second I stepped on campus I knew it was the place I wanted to be a part of,” Wenner said in the same Instagram post.
Last year, she finished first on vault in regionals and found herself amongst the top 100 scores on many occasions.
This year, she was named the 2024 regional champion after finishing first in every event, and at the Daytona National Championships, she secured gold on
In the NFL, if the quarterback abruptly jerks his hands before the snap and causes the defensive line to jump offsides, then it’s a false start for the quarterback.
But that’s not the only problem with the clap snap count; it also has strategic disadvantages.
“The clap snap count is used primarily in college football,” former eight-year NFL guard Geoff Schwartz wrote for SB Nation.
“The noise of the clap is supposedly crisper than the voice or, clearly, louder than a silent count. I think it’s pointless in the NFL.”
While he eventually found his cadence in the NFL, Murray was called for a false start twice for clapping in Arizona’s 2019 preseason matchup.
But why? Why was Murray flagged for calling for the ball?
the hustle play, keep the ball in play and keep our momentum going in,” Sears said. “It was a great play, though. Great sequence and we needed it.”
Bailey continues to play the most impactful minutes on this basketball team. His efficient 5-6 (83.3%) shooting performance scored him 11 points.
The clapping signal gives pass rushes a visual signal when the ball will be snapped, while the offensive line waits to hear the snap before shifting. That split second could be all an opportunistic defender needs before completely wrecking a play behind the line of scrimmage.
“Everyone hears the snap at the exact same time, even when noise isn’t an issue like at home,” Schwartz wrote. “I don’t like it.”
So, what’s the deal with the clap snap count? Is it any useful at all?
With less than a half-minute remaining, Cam Carter got an emphatic steal and slam to seal the win with an exclamation point. The purple and gold narrowly escaped another second-half hole with the victory.
McMahon must continue to establish a winning culture during non-conference play. Once January
The NCAA’s biggest contests usually drive more fans to the stands than the NFL. Collegiate crowds are known for their overwhelming noise and overall rowdiness. While the offense might miss their quarterback yelling while surrounded wall-to-wall in a venue of 100,000 spectators screaming at the top of their lungs, it’s hard to miss a loud, booming clap.
Clapping takes control out of the quarterback’s hands to change the play and call an audible; it helps simplify the game for college quarterbacks who are still learning the ins and outs of football. Once the best of the best make it to the league, these quarterbacks begin to find their voice in the NFL.
Look no further than Jayden Daniels. The reigning Heisman trophy winner has already developed a cadence halfway through his rookie season that he utilizes in Washington’s home games.
So, while the clap snap count may be archaic in the NFL, NCAA quarterbacks will stick with it for the foreseeable future.
arrives, SEC action won’t get easier. But whether it’s the suit and tie or the postgame celebration, it doesn’t matter: LSU is undefeated.
The Tigers will look to stay undefeated at the Greenbrier Tip-Off in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia when they play fellow unbeaten 5-0 Pittsburgh on Friday afternoon.
beam and eighth in the Senior B all-around division.
Also a two-time qualifier for the Nastia Liukin Cup, Wenner excels among her peers with a career-high of 39.175 in the allaround, and is the No. 3 recruit.
“Signing to LSU means so much to me because I am so excited to spend the next four years in the best environment for me and to have a chance to compete with the best people,”
said Wenner. Fans will have to wait to see these star-studded recruits until the 2026 season, but they’ll have plenty of fresh faces in 2025 with rookies Zoe Miller, Kailin Chio, Kaliya Lincoln and Lexi Zeiss.
After an unforgettable first national championship, LSU gymnast Aleah Finnegan’s Olympic debut this summer and a stacked recruitment, the anticipation for the 2025 season grows.
The spotlight on gymnastics at LSU will be brighter than ever, and most fans will have high expectations for both the returning champs and the promising newcomers.
The team has announced an exhibition on Monday, Dec 16, at a time that is to be announced. The team’s first official meet of the season will be a few weeks later against Iowa State in Baton Rouge on Friday, Jan. 3.
MADALYN CUNNINGHAM / The Reveille
The LSU gymnastics team cheers as confetti falls following LSU’s NCAA Championship win on April 20, in Fort Worth, Tx.
OPINION
A disturbing wave of hatred after the Men wear makeup. Get over it. BREAKING NEWS
BESKE’S BUZZ
KATE BESKE
@KateBeske
Recently, a series of racist text messages were sent to Black students days after the Presidential Election.
According to an FBI statement, some messages included phrases like, “You have been selected to pick cotton.”
It’s statement also said the message recipients expanded to both the Hispanic and LGBTQIA+ communities, with some being told they were selected for deportation or to report to a re-education camp. According to Tiger TV, one of the recipients was a sophomore at LSU.
I believe that the president of the NAACP, Derrick Johnson, said it best in his statement about the racist messages, “These messages represent an alarming increase in vile and abhorrent rhetoric from racist groups across the country, who now feel emboldened to spread hate and stoke the flames of fear that many of us are feeling after Tuesday’s election results.”
The sad fact is that many groups could feel the effects after the election on Nov. 5. I saw multiple TikToks of women upset after the election, and reading the comments made my heart sink.
Filled with messages saying, “your body, our choice,” “make me a sandwich” and clips of Nick Fuentes, who popularized the phrase, saying “there will never be a female president” and that “the glass ceiling is made of bricks.”
Statistics calculated by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue show that the use of the phrase “your body, our choice” significantly increased surrounding the election, peaking on November 8th, when it was mentioned 12,238 times.
This situation is horrifying, but sadly, it was no surprise. I have lived in the deep South for the majority of my life and have spent many of those years listening to the racism, sexism and homophobia that seeped out of the student body surrounding me.
Growing up here helped me realize my political beliefs. I believe one of the most important things when it comes to voting and politics, in general, is protecting the rights of all human beings.
I think with Trump being elect-
EDITORIAL BOARD
ed, those who hate marginalized groups will feel more empowered to speak their minds because their president does the same. With a president who spreads so much hate, it’s no surprise that his loyal followers and even the country will grow hateful as well.
As the FBI statement says, “Although we have not received reports of violent acts stemming from these offensive messages, we are evaluating all reported incidents and engaging with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.”
Hate crimes are a real thing that people have to fear while going about their daily lives. Even without the violence, though, these hate messages and fear tactics are all about intimidating people who have a rational fear. Such as threatening to control women’s bodies when most already fear being sexually assaulted because of how often it occurs.
I have felt accustomed to this hate for a while. After being the only girl in a shop class, I’ve heard it all at this point.
“Something smells like fish,” after I walk in, “I’m not interested you’re ugly,” after I declined to give out my number and, “You look like a rapeable person; I could hold you down and do anything I want to you,” while holding my knee. All of these were said to me at age 15, in a classroom with only men and no one to defend me, not even the male teacher.
The fact is that this is nothing compared to the vicious hate crimes and bullying people have faced due to their gender, sexuality, race, religion and so much more is difficult to bare. It feels impossible to stop the hate, but all we can do is try to make others understand why something that isn’t violent can still cause violence and hate for groups who are already marginalized.
These racist messages sent only days after the election are a glimpse into the next four years, and those against this disgusting hate should speak out about it as much as they can.
Kate Beske is a 21-year-old journalism senior from Destrehan, La.
GARRETT’S GAVEL
@9are_bear
GARRETT MCENTEE defined and traditionally perceived masculine visage.
Makeup is an art form and a tool. One that, in modern memory, is used by women and girls to enhance their features and express themselves via the canvas of the face.
But… I think it’s time to give a gentle reminder that makeup and really all art forms is completely untouched by gender. No, really. Walk with me.
Looking at the past, we can see that makeup was used by men and women. To cover up disgusting pustules with lead and enhance and perhaps make pretty faces that only mothers could love. Makeup was just a tool, not really a refined enough enterprise to create art per se, but unmistakably for any shades of the binary.
Jumping back to the present, I see that there’s been a noticeable uptick in guys putting makeup on. From just a little tinted chap-stick and mascara to a bright and bubbly rouge with a chartreuse cutcrease and highlighter so bright it has passersby calling their oph-
thalmologist. It’s no understatement that guys putting on makeup in any form isn’t well received (especially by conservatives). People will often proselytize that the average Joe putting on makeup is emasculating and unattractive. That it makes you gay.
And for these reasons, I say that the only thing that makes someone putting on makeup immediately ugly as all get out is if they suck at putting on makeup. Let me be clear here: makeup is hard. And it’s very easy to take a good face and make it bad.
As for makeup being emasculating, I’d argue that because of its origins being so unisex, it can’t really be emasculating. Though, this really comes down to perspective. To me, gender is entirely self-revolving. If someone wants to be masculine and put on makeup, I think it’s entirely easy for them to convey masculinity through makeup via contouring and other makeup tactics that create a more
It should be noted that men wearing makeup is not a scientifically proven method of finding out their sexual orientation. Multiple male celebrities have come about for putting on makeup, both gay and straight. From James Charles to Bach Buquen to Patrick Starrr, all these fellas put on makeup and have become popular for that, as well as for being hot.
And, to be very succinct, we as a society have such big proverbial fish to fry than getting pissy about men putting on foundation and blush. If you cannot find a bigger issue to focus on, might I recommend turning the page or clicking the screen until you run into our news section?
If absolutely nothing else, keep mean comments to yourself if you see a guy wearing makeup. Because at the end of the day, he’s just waiting for the day to end, same as you, dear reader. Even if his makeup is horrible.
Garrett McEntee is a 19-year-old English sophomore from Benton.
The reality of believing in
TANTAWI’S TABLOID
MOHAMMAD TANTAWI
@mowinator
To be or not to be religious. The ultimate conundrum has followed me for years as I’ve aged. I grew up with religious Muslim parents, good people with strict beliefs who vouched for the Glory of God and the importance of walking the straight path.
Boring was the enemy of God with its hedonistic implicates, but as I moved out, I saw the world. I began to question belief as a skill.
Remember when you questioned the reasoning behind going to work, being motivated or living in general? Beyond our worldly matters, what is there to live for? Why are we here alone in the universe?
Could it be romantic love and the journey it takes you on? Maybe
financial elevation, virtuous aims, hedonistic pleasure? Frankly, who knows?
One could argue any belief held is a delusion when measured against the entirety of the cosmos and human history. Our beliefs in a vacuum are elementary and cemented in a strong, yet cute thing called belief.
The framework of monotheistic religion is held together by the belief of the unseen; without it, there’s not much left for you to take away except some moral guidelines. But that begs the question of assessing the value of moral structures built upon the words of the unseen and unproven.
But how could there not be a God? After all, if you stretched your veins, capillaries, and arteries, you would have 60,000 miles of rope; Boy Scouts would be thrilled. The type of person you are will likely determine your religiosity. Religion might call you a little louder if you are comfortable making decisions a priori without experience or evidence. On the contrary, if you are comfortable making decisions a posteriori, you would need evidence to believe.
Should you be religious? Well, according to Pascal’s Wager, yes. Simply put, Blaise Pascal’s beloved belief in God, at worst, wastes your time. Keep in mind this depends on singling out the “right religion,” but a religious person inherently believes their faith is the truth. This contentment could be why religious people seem happier, have longer lives and consume less alcohol. In
see RELIGION, page 11
Editorial Policies and Procedures Quote of the Week
The Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Reveille is an independent entity of the Office of Student Media within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, The Reveille or the university. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to editor@lsu.edu or delivered to B-39 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must provide a contact phone number for verification purposes, which will not be printed. The Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration while preserving the original intent. The Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Reveille’s editor in chief, hired every semester by the LSU Student Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.
“To bring the light, you must first make your way through the bramblefilled darkness. Safe travels.”
Taylor Hamilton Opinion Editor
RELIGION, from page 10
case my non-religious readers need a nugget of hope, Pew Research did find that being unaffiliated with religion did result in lower obesity rates.
Aside from the obesity rates, I doubt the claims of happiness and lessened drug use. After all, veering from the message of God might be hard to admit and resurface repressed cognitive dissonance.
Faith aside, morality is a twolane highway with the righteous on the right, fueled by the wishes of the Lord. Self-chosen worldly expectations of virtue fuel the non-religious coasts along the left lane. Be better and grateful that religious punishments are not instituted in the Western world because, with 3000 burglaries a day, there’d be a lot of chopped-up hands. Maybe it’d lower robbery rates, but I’ll let the alternate universe find out.
Are we ready to separate religion from our moral structure? The conservative view tells us religion is deeply intertwined in our country’s framework beyond “all men are created equal.” It only really comes up when discussing the moral integrity of our country’s history as a hypocritical contradiction to our self-appointed moral supremacy. The question is above my pay grade.
Mohammad Tantawi is a 24-yearold mass communication senior from Smyrna, Tenn.
GARRETT GARRETT RUN RUN RUN RUN RUN
Top three things to make Nussmeier run the dang ball GARRETT RUN
BY ISABELLE CALLAHAN & GABBY GRAY @isabellcal17 & @GabbyGray06
Editor’s note: The following piece is satire.
If you’ve been watching LSU football lately... well, we’re sorry you’re wasting your time watching this train wreck explode.
Just like thousands of other students on LSU’s campus, we are more than disappointed in redshirt junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier’s performance this season — especially his stunning lack of running the ball, no matter how many people tell him to.
There has to be a something that would turn Nussmeier into Usain Bolt. But how?
LSU’s campus squirrels
LSU’s campus squirrels are no ordinary rodents; they’re local celebrities. Known for fearless antics and the ability to close in on unsuspecting students like a heat-seeking missile, one of these furry fiends could make Nussmeier pick up the pace.
Some of them are tame, but as most students have experienced, others are a completely different breed.
From squaring up students on
the sidewalk to dragging food bags into trees — not bags of food, they abandon the food and simply take the bag to have as a tasty snack — these gremlins have certainly made a name for themselves.
It’s a name we should incorporate into LSU football.
Imagine dodging an acorn assault or a squirrel on a mission — it’s not a bad way to work on lateral quickness.
Right now, a campus squirrel might be what we need to make Nussmeier the best running quarterback in the SEC and could even lead us to the college football championships.
We could even look into making the squirrel the quarterbacks coach. We’ll figure out translation later, but after watching their mobility skills, Nussmeier could learn a thing or two.
Given that they practically own LSU’s campus, rendering students just visitors, they can also own Brian Kelly’s football practice and shape Nussmeier into the perfect running quarterback. Scooter privileges revoked
If there’s one thing studentathletes don’t have to fear like the rest of LSU’s student body does —
it’s the idea of being struck by a scooter approaching you at what feels like 100 miles per hour.
So, adding to the list of things that could turn Nussmeier into a runner, is taking away his scooter.
Our football players shouldn’t be walking or using their perfectly able bodies; they need those scooters as to not overexert themselves so they’ll be rested and ready.
But do you know what could also get Nussmeier ready for a game?
Running across campus.
If LSU confiscates Nussmeier’s electric scooter, he could get some extra practice in running to class.
While that might not be encouraged for safety reasons, it’s almost a guarantee that students would clear the way for Nussmeier if they saw him booking it down Free Speech Alley.
It’s a win-win for the LSU student body all around. We have one less student-athlete endangering the sidewalks of campus with an electric scooter and a fantastic comeback from Nussmeier for the remainder of the season.
An uncomfortably gracious
Brian Kelly
Next up, Kelly. As we’ve seen, he just keeps losing games. One moment he’s leading the Tigers onto the field of Death Valley, and in another, he’s throwing a temper tantrum on the sidelines.
It doesn’t seem like Nussmeier would be as afraid of Kelly as he would be a campus squirrel, given that they sit around and hold hands while Kelly makes excuses for his bad games.
But seeing as though Nussmeier doesn’t want to run the ball either, what else can Kelly do to motivate him?
We’ve seen him yell at the quarterback on the sidelines, and we’ve seen him defend his horrible plays, so maybe the only option left is good old-fashioned peace-and-love gratitude.
This could mean having Nussmeier start in the north end zone and Kelly in the south, having him run to Kelly in such a way that they share a “Dirty Dancing” time-of-my-life moment, where Nussmeier practically soars into Kelly’s embrace.
Perhaps the only thing left to get Nussmeier out of a slump is bringing him and Kelly together as if no one else exists to them in the world.
Don’t let the challenges of college life get in the way of taking care of yourself. Schedule an in-person or Virtual Visit with a gynecologist at Louisiana Women’s Healthcare and let us help address any female health concerns you may have.
