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Sept. 3, 2020 | Vol. 95, No. 2

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Photo courtesy of For Calloway’s Facebook Page Nicholas O’Dell, chief medical officer at the Murray Calloway County Hospital, talks with Matt Johnson, lead pastor of Journey Church, about COVID-19 updates and contact tracing.

Contact tracing concerns Positive patient not asked about contact tracing COVID-19 test results, but she felt it was her responsibility to inform those she had been in contact with previously.

“The only information I was given was to wait 10-14 days from my first symptom and then I would be good to come out of quarantine because I would no longer be contagious, even though if I was to be tested it could come back positive for the next three months,” Chelsea said.

Chelsea also received a letter from the Calloway County Courthouse stating a list of things she was prohibited from doing until she was done quarantining, such as leaving her house without permission from the health department and visiting the hospital without calling the health department. If she violated these rules, she could be taken to court.

for those the patient has been in close contact with.

“A close contact is someone who has been exposed 1-2 days before symptoms onset to the positive person, After testing positive for within 6 feet, for more than 15 minCOVID-19, members of the comutes,” Paschall said. “Close contacts, munity have reported they have not based on what the positive patient has been asked about contact tracing reported, will be notified and instructfrom the Calloway County Health ed what to do.”

Department.

Chelsea said she informed the Chelsea, a Calloway County resihealth department that she had been dent, tested positive for COVID-19 going to work while she was experion Aug. 17 after spending time with encing symptoms, but they did not her parents who later found out they ask her for the contact information of had contracted the virus. her workplace.

At first, Chelsea thought she only Nicholas O’Dell, chief medical ofhad a cold because of the few sympficer at the Murray-Calloway County toms she had, but as soon as her mom Hospital, and Jeff Eye, chief nursing called to tell her she tested positive, officer and vice president of patient Chelsea got tested at the Murray-Calcare, joined Matt Johnson, lead pasloway County Hospital and quarantor of Journey Church, during a livestined while awaiting her results. tream on For Calloway’s Facebook After quarantining for four days, They did not ask page on Monday, Aug. 31. O’Dell Chelsea received a call from the hosmy parents’ names or and Eye answered questions from pital informing her that she tested contact information. both Johnson and those viewing the positive for COVID-19. When she They didn’t mention livestream. was called, she was only asked if she anything to me about One of the questions Johnson asked was showing any symptoms and if she contact tracing.

O’Dell and Eye was regarding contact had been in contact with anyone who tracing in Calloway County. had contracted the virus.

- Chelsea, postive COVID-19 Eye said the health department has While Chelsea was questioned patient seven to eight people available to hanabout her symptoms, she was not Chelsea said overall the health de- dle contact tracing for all of Calloway asked for any information that would partment was very helpful and nice to County, including Murray State stube needed for contact tracing.

“They did not ask my parents’ names her personally, but she doesn’t feel like dents. University-related cases are inor contact information,” Chelsea said. they were concerned with her ability vestigated and handled the same as “They didn’t mention anything to me to spread the virus. other Calloway County residents. The Kim Paschall, director of Calloway majority of contact tracing is conductabout contact tracing. I told them that I had been at work the week prior and County Health Department, said ed by the Calloway County Health that I was sure that I had already con- when a healthcare provider is noti- Department nursing staff. tracted the virus looking back because fied of a positive COVID-19 result, “Contact tracing is only as good as my ‘cold’ symptoms had been around the provider is supposed to call the the person giving the information,” for almost two weeks at this point. patient and notify the local health O’Dell said. “If I don’t give them They did not ask where I worked or department. Then a disease investiga- that information, they don’t know for the information of my coworkers.” tor should call the patient who test- because the health department has a Chelsea also said she was never ed positive, provide isolation instruc- very large task of contacting each inasked to contact anyone about her tions and obtain contact information dividual person, and you know, they Daniella Tebib News Editor dtebib@murraystate.edu

News Sports Features

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New dining options come to campus page 2

Parsons to join Racer softball staff

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were really busy last week contacting people. If you’re not truthful, it’s not going to work, so just like, you know, not wearing a mask is selfish, not being truthful with where you’ve been is also selfish because the people that have been around you need to know so they can take appropriate actions of staying home, not just wearing their masks which is what they were already doing hopefully, but they need to stay home and that period of time is up to two weeks of limiting that public contact.”

The contact tracers are under the responsibility of local health departments. But, some local health departments utilize the regional contact tracing team under the guidance of the Kentucky Department for Public Health.

Paschall said contact tracing is not a new concept for the health department. Local health departments are required to contact trace for several infectious diseases such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, tuberculosis, salmonella, campylobacter and several more. However, contact tracing is in a higher demand than normal.

“Since a pandemic of this nature has not occurred in over 100 years, healthcare professionals are facing challenges that are unprecedented,” Paschall said.

As of press time, the total number of cases in Kentucky has increased to 49,991, resulting in 966 deaths.

In Calloway County specifically, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has reached 419 with 13 new cases, 373 recoveries, 35 isolated at home, three hospitalizations and eight deaths.

Stay up to date with The Murray State News and sign up for our weekly newsletter at TheNews.org.

Racer Band is back in business

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See Unofficial Guide to Racer Life Inside

News

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Sept. 3, 2020

New dining options come to campus Sarah Mead Staff Writer smead@murraystate.edu Murray State’s contract partner Sodexo has opened four new restaurants in the Curris Center this fall, including Starbucks, Steak ‘n Shake, SubConnection and Tres Habaneros.

Some students have mixed feelings about the new restaurants on campus. While the new options are advantageous for students who only eat on campus, some are concerned about how the increase of corporate brands will affect the University’s atmosphere.

“It seems like there are a lot more companies coming onto campus, which is nice for people who don’t have access to [those restaurants],” said Emily Harper, junior from Paris, Tennessee. “[However,] there’s something about the mixing of corporations [and education] that rubs me the wrong way.”

Some students think the influx of corporate restaurants could affect local businesses. A large portion of coffee drinkers meet at places off campus like Shaffer Coffee Co. or Fifth and Main. A new Starbucks franchise could negatively affect the local food and drink options.

“I think [the new restaurants] are nice, but some of the homey feel has left the campus because of them,” said Jessica Free, senior from Puryear, Tennessee.

Starbucks, located in the area of the Curris Center known as the Dance L ounge, offers hot and iced coffee, as well as lunch and breakfast items in the bakery. Starbucks is open from 7:30 a.m. through 7 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays.

Other students are concerned the location of the new businesses could interfere with social distancing guidelines.

Jill Rush/The News Steak ‘n Shake is one of the new restaurants now open in the Thoroughbred Room in the Curris Center.

“I don’t think people are doing enough [social distancing],” Free said. “People are crowding me and other people. They aren’t listening to the dots on the floor and it makes me uncomfortable.”

In order to comply with social distancing guidelines, changes have been made to the layout of the Curris Center and Thoroughbred Room to accommodate customers.

GrubHub, a food delivery service, is also available to students, allowing for advance ordering and pick-up options.

“Seating in all the dining locations will be supplemented with additional new outdoor seating and tables with chairs in Curris Center and residence halls,” according to the Racer Restart Plan.

“Dining facilities will be marked with signage to help maintain

distances between customers.

Employees are trained in the most up-to-date serving protocols to provide safe and healthy dining experiences.”

While the restaurants are all located in the same building, they are spread across two floors and have varying business hours.

Steak ‘n Shake is located in the T-Room on the third floor of the Curris Center. The menu offers a limited selection of meals and milkshakes.

Steak ‘n Shake is open on weekdays from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. and from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. later in the evening.

SubConnection offers sandwiches, wraps and salads. At SubConnection, students can choose from a variety of sandwich options or from the signature menu. The restaurant also offers a build-your-own salad option. Also found in the T-Room,

SubConnection is open only on weekdays from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

The other new addition to the T-Room is Tres Habaneros, a restaurant that serves burritos, tacos, quesadillas, rice and salad bowls. Tres Habaneros is open Monday through Friday, with lunch hours from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The restaurant is also open in the evenings from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. for the dinner crowd.

Of the new restaurants that opened this fall, Tres Habaneros is the only option that accepts swipes from the regular all-access meal plan. It and the other three restaurants also accept Flex dollars and premium meal exchanges from the premium meal plan, as well as cash, credit, Apple Pay and Google Pay. Detailed menus for the three restaurants can be found on TheNews.org

BOR discusses enrollment, finances and student affairs contributing $827,600 and leading other public universities in Kentucky in graduation rates, only the University of Louisville and the University The Board of Regents held its sum- of Kentucky will receive funds. There mer quarterly meeting on Friday, Aug. have been discussions by the Postsec28, via Zoom to discuss topics includ- ondary Performance Funding Work ing enrollment, finances and student Group on changing the system that allocates where the funding goes. affairs.

Addison Watson Assistant News Editor awatson25@murraystate.edu

Enrollment

Pension

Don Robertson, vice president of Student Affairs, spoke highly of the enrollment rates for the fall 2020 semester. He credited Wendy Cain, director of Student Financial Services, and her colleagues for assisting incoming students with their financial aid and various situations.

Robertson said the most common reason for students not returning to school is their inability to afford their upcoming semesters. He said because Cain and the rest of her staff have been working diligently since the semester began, the University is able to greatly mitigate the rate of students not returning.

Preliminary enrollment reports indicate that incoming freshmen, graduate students and transfer students all show an increase from last semester.

Robertson also said faculty and staff continued to work on maximising recruiting efforts despite the complications that COVID-19 caused.

Discussion occurred regarding the state pension crisis for Murray State.

Currently, the Kentucky General Assembly froze the rate of contribution that Murray State pays into the pension fund at 49.47 percent. The rate could have risen much higher if the freeze hadn’t been placed.

The Board of Regents will have to decide in a later meeting if they will continue to be a part of the Kentucky Employee Retirement System non-hazardous plan or look into other options.

Jackie Dudley, vice president of Finance and Administration, spoke of the liability that Murray State has under the current system. She said while an exact dollar amount could not be figured at the time, she believes Murray State will be liable for almost $200 million.

Performance Funding Murray State will not receive any performance funding dollars. Despite

Photo courtesy of the Murray State University’s Youtube Channel The Board of Regents meets on Friday, Aug. 28, via Zoom to discuss the new semester.

Preservation Fund is expected to generate $1.4 million but overall expenses are expected to be closer to $2 million.

This fund is student generated. $10 is taken from every credit hour a student enrolls in and is capped at 15 credit hours per student.

the 2020-21 school year. He was sworn in by Judge Jamie Jameson, the circuit court judge for Calloway and Marshall counties.

Norman is a senior agribusiness major from Henderson, Kentucky. He won homecoming king last year and said it was one of his School of Engineering proudest moments during his introduction to his fellow regents.

The School of Engineering, forNo r m a n u p d a t e d t h e b o a rd merly known as the Institute of En- with some activities that SGA gineering, has received a name change had been actively working on with a 10-0 unanimous vote from the over the past few days. He said Board. The engineering and phys- that SGA had been assisting in a ics programs were specifically men- blood drive in conjunction with tioned and have doubled in size over The Red Cross. the course of eight years.

“We are gonna be able to help over 300 patients,” Norman said.

Asset Preservation Student Regent Warren Norman The Red Cross said the amount of blood donated nearly doubled With aging infrastructure, the During the spring 2020 semester, their expectations.

Board voted to replace two boil- Warren Norman was elected StuVisit TheNews.org for the full ers in the Curris Center and replace dent Government Association pres- live stream of the Board’s meetthe windows and doors in Wil- ident by his peers. This position also ing. The Board of Regents will son Hall and Wells Hall. The Asset makes him the student regent for meet again on Dec. 4.

Sports

Sept. 3, 2020

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Parsons to join Racer softball staff

Photo courtesy of Murray State Athletics

Zack Parsons will become a graduate assistant coach for Murary State softball.

Simon Elfrink Staff Writer selfrink@murraystate.edu

Murray State Softball Head Coach Kara Amundson announced the addition of Zack Parsons to the coaching staff on Aug. 23.

Amundson is confident that Parsons will make a positive impact on Racer softball by assisting with pitching.

“We are excited about the addition of Coach Parsons to round out our staff,” Amundson said. “He is a great young pitching mind with plenty of coaching experience that will continue to help the growth of our pitching staff. We welcome Zack to Racer

Nation with open arms.”

After receiving his degree in exercise science at Georgetown College in 2015, Parsons pursued a master’s degree in counseling and personnel services with a concentration in college student personnel at the University of Louisville in 2017. At Murray State, he plans to earn a certificate in organizational dynamics.

In between his studies, Parsons stacked up an impressive resumé.

He began his coaching career by assisting at East Jessamine High School in Nicholasville, Kentucky, where he helped the Lady Jaguars finish as the 12th region runner-up after a district championship with a staggering 28-3 record.

Parsons’ collegiate portfolio opened in 2018 at Asbury University, where he began as a volunteer assistant coach specializing in coaching the pitching staff.

By December of that year, Parsons received the title of interim head coach and wasted no time in stepping up to the challenge.

Offensively, the Eagles achieved an increase in total hits, doubles, walks, RBIs, home runs and runs scored in a single season.

Parsons was officially named the head coach at Asbury University at the start of the following season. The COVID-19 pandemic cut the season short, but the Eagles did boast a winning record (8-6) for the first time since 2011.

The Asbury Eagles also led their conference in batting average, slugging percentage, runs scored per game, RBIs per game, home runs and home runs per game. The pitching staff continued to benefit from Parsons’ presence as well, recording a team ERA of 2.94.

The opposing teambatting average was a modest .246, and opposing batters struck out 70 times and walked 32 times.

“I’m very thankful to be joining an already incredible coaching staff,” Parsons said. “Coach Amundson and Coach Gilland have created a strong culture of what it means to be a Racer, and I’m looking forward to doing my part in upholding that standard.”

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Features

Sept. 3, 2020

Racer Band is back in business Cady Stribling Features Editor cstribling1@murraystate.edu

The renowned Racer Band is making the most of a challenging semester. With football season canceled and performances on pause, the band has had to find ways to safely perform while maintaining the charisma that Murray State loves.

Brent Johnson, director of athletic bands and associate director of bands, said the Racer Band will have one performance on Oct. 10 for friends and family called the “Friends and Family Performance.” This will give students credits for their courses, allow the community to support the band and give students an opportunity to do what they love: entertain.

The event will be livestreamed to incorporate family and friends not in Murray.

Katie Zheng, senior music education major and trumpet section leader, said they rehearse 2-4 times a week with each section of the band rotating in small groups. For example, the individual brass and woodwind sectionals meet on Mondays and are further split up by each instrument section.

Zheng said the band has been micro-organized and careful about the standards needing to be followed to maintain the students’ health and safety.

“With the rehearsal schedules being shortened and not having as many performances, it has definitely been a different experience for us all but the work we’ve done has been nothing short of rewarding,” Zheng said.

Under normal circumstances, the Racer Band rehearses four times a week with all 200+ students at each practice. This year, rehearsals are being staggered to reduce the number of students on the field at a time, and the band only meets up with all members each Friday.

Johnson said each student is required to wear masks at all times. The instruments where players use their mouths, like brass and woodwinds, remove their masks only to play.

Johnson had to write the formation of the performance number in a way that kept students at a minimum of 6 feet apart. Each section is also assigned to a specific part of the stadium to transition through rehearsals.

“I am not going to say it hasn’t been tough adapting to these new procedures,” Johnson said. “An immense amount of preparation, investigation and study has gone into every detail of what we do.

But, the most inspiring part is the

commitment of the students to follow the rules and safety protocols so they are able to participate in this activity that they love so much.”

Johnson said he is fortunate that their activities take place outside, which allows for appropriate distancing and dispersal of air to protect the students.

“It is amazing to see them out there working hard to put together a show for only one performance,” Johnson. “The character that is being demonstrated by these wonderful students is first-rate.”

Johnson said it takes a tremendous amount of work to learn a show, so it is apparent how the students love what they do, and they’ll do what must be done for a chance of performing despite the circumstances.

Johnson, who became director in December 2019, said it can be difficult for students to adjust to new leadership and throwing a worldwide pandemic in the mix made it even more challenging.

“After all the disappointments 2020 has brought, I do feel like having this abbreviated season of Racer Band is providing our students with a dose of positivity and rejuvenation that we have all been craving for months,” Johnson said. “I couldn’t be prouder of their resilience and determination.”

The Racer Band also hosts the Festival of Champions, a high school marching band competition, where they perform for several hundred high school students, and this event was canceled as well.

Allison Grace, senior music education major, plays the flute and is the vice president of Racer Band. Grace said she and the other student officers have been given tasks by Johnson and director of university bands Trae Blanco to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Grace said the students’ health and safety are Johnson and Blanco’s main priority, which is very comforting for her.

“My section specifically spaces out during sectional times where we are all 6 feet apart and wear masks during all transitions and non-playing times,” Grace said.

“We also ensure that we are sanitizing our hands between each activity. We each have our own stand and music binder so we don’t have to share with anyone else like we have done in the past. All of the stands are then sanitized after rehearsal so they are ready for the next use.”

Grace said these adjustments have kept everyone safe and have worked out well so far.

Paige Bold/The News The Racer Band will have one performance this semester in October.

“Even though this year for Racer Band looks different, I still think it’s going to be an amazing season,” Grace said. “Racer Band has the most passionate set of members and we are all so excited to be back together and making music again safely. I really believe that the 2020 version of Racer Band is going to be one of the best yet.”

Blanco said the Racer Band is taking this time to work toward excellence in performance while ensuring everyone is properly following COVID-19 guidelines. The band, Blanco said, is striving to accomplish the DNA of the organization: community engagement, excellence in musical achievement and commitment to members’ development in both skill and community friendships.

“Perhaps the most challenging task at hand for us is maintaining the energy and drive without the opportunity for weekly performances for the public,” Blanco said. “Our students love to give back to the community with their time and talents. Since we are unable to have those opportunities at local high school band festivals, football games and our own Festival of Champions, we are having to be creative in the way we push them towards excellence and create ‘performances’ that make them happy.”

Blanco said one of the ways they engaged students and the community was through a Facebook live performance last week, which has gotten over 12,000 views. Even more, a company based in Texas is creating a video and audio recording of the Murray State fight song with a special appearance from Racer One as another form of engagement.

“These activities, although they seem small, will help us continue to create student engagement and excitement, and with that fulfillment we hope to keep their energy going towards the big October performance,” Blanco said.

Blanco, who has worked at four institutions and has guest lectured with marching band leadership programs at universities across the country, said Murray State music students are exceptional. The student leaders of Racer Band, Blanco said, were supportive and committed to providing a safe experience this band season no matter the conditions.

“Our student leadership arrives early, moves things safely and maintains distance, they stay late and spray and sanitize music stands, they’ve organized events to create the social experience with the band while following all the guidelines for distancing, and they do it all without any praise or thanks,” Blanco said.

Although the students might need reminders from time to time, Blanco said all the band members are committed to achieving a safe season with a musical reward. For many students, music isn’t just their hobby but who they are, Blanco said.

“I’m very proud of them and all our ensemble student participants this year,” Blanco said. “Being back in an ensemble for them is having the connection they’ve longed for since March. We can’t hug or hold hands, but the notes that resonate together in a group are our connection now, and they are powerful.”

On Thursday, Sept. 3, the Racer Band is doing a small performance before the movie night showing of Frozen II at Roy Stewart Stadium.

founded by Jeff Arnold, the founder of WebMD, and Mehmet Oz. Sharecare, according to Harris, is an online platform that allows patients to manage their health all in one place.

When the pandemic hit, Sharecare had to quickly navigate how they would proceed moving forward.

“When we tried to understand the magnitude of the pandemic,” Harris said. “We had to figure out how to mobilize our assets to survive and thrive.”

With the rise of virtual health, patients across the country have been turning to online alternatives to going to the doctor. Sharecare has perfected its virtual health hub to create a platform where the consumer is at the center. Because of their cutting edge work, Sharecare was awarded gold in the

Digital Health Awards for their COVID-19 hub.

Harris said the secret to their success lies in its very foundation.

The founders of Sharecare wanted to create something brand new, despite skepticism, and the company has been built on this fearlessness.

“We have never had a fear of failure,” Harris said. “We have not been afraid of risk, because the risks we take are always calculated.”

With over 20,000 videos, 40,000 health experts and 65 million members on their platform, Sharecare has exceeded all expectations set out for it 10 years ago. Although success to this degree is never promised, Harris shared some advice on how to excel in your career.

“Just calm down,” Harris said.

“You don’t have to know everything that will happen in your career. Just follow your gut.”

Alumna speaks to students about success story Ciara Benham Staff Writer cbenham@murraystate.edu

On Wednesday, Sept. 2, the Arthur J. Bauerfield College of Business hosted a virtual event called “Racers in the Lead, Growth and Uncertainty” with alumna Kathy Harris as the keynote speaker. The lecture, part of a fall 2020 virtual series, focused on how Harris has been succeeding in her field during COVID-19.

“Things always turn. It may look bleak now, but it will turn,” Harris said about braving the business world in times of uncertainty.

Harris first came to Murray State in 1976 and studied music education.

After realizing she wanted music to be a part of her life but not what she did for a living, Harris

went out on a limb and changed to accounting.

“I remembered my high school guidance counselor saying that everyone needs an accountant and I just went with that,” Harris said.

Harris spoke very highly of her experience at Murray State, saying that she fell in love with the culture here. She also thanked her former Murray State professor Tim Miller.

“I hit the jackpot when I took accounting 101 and Dr. Tim Miller was my professor,” Harris said.

“He gave me the confidence and the courage to pursue a career in something I knew nothing about.

Harris got her Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Murray State and is now the executive vice president of corporate development at Sharecare. Sharecare is a health and wellness engagement platform

M

THE MUR R AY STATE

NEWS

www.TheNews.org

@TheMurrayStateNews

@MurrayStateNews

AD YOUR

2020

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD E R E H

@TheMurrayStateNews

@MurrayStateNews

CONTACT US (270)-809-4478 msunewsads@gmail.com

This is a special edition of The Murray State News

Jillian Rush/The News

Letter from the Editor Nervousness, uncertainty and the fear of the unknown are all things that have crept into the thoughts of students stepping foot on campus at Murray State for the very first time. It’s not just you. I was once right where you are now.

Three years ago I left my hometown of Marion, Illinois, and began the next chapter in my life at Murray State. I arrived in Murray, Kentucky, only knowing one other person coming to the University and had millions of thoughts racing through my mind.

What does the future hold for me? Am I going to be able to make any friends? How much harder are classes going to be?

Can I balance everything I want to do along with academics?

You won’t find the answer to all these questions right away, but don’t worry, the future is bright and full of opportunities.

The best way to discover these opportunities is to get involved.

During my freshman year, some editors from The Murray State News spoke to my transitions class and presented me with the idea of getting paid to write and gain experience in a career field I was getting ready to jump into.

Taking heed of that opportunity was one of the greatest decisions I could’ve made. Through The Murray State News I’ve been able to gain valuable experience in my career field and create

relationships and friendships that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

There are an abundance of ways to get involved on campus.

From fraternities and sororities, to clubs, intramural sports and many other things, Murray State is the place to be to continue this next chapter of your life.

The friendships you’ll create and the memories you will make will be things that you will always remember and mean more to you than you could possibly know as time goes on.

There will be some hard times.

I’d be lying if I said that there won’t be an adjustment period and there won’t be stressful times during your journey at college.

You all have already faced one

in coming to campus amid the pandemic as we enter our third week of the fall semester.

However, the hardships you will face along with all the times of laughter and memories that will always live with you are what makes us human and what will make your time at Murray State so memorable.

Welcome to Murray State and I hope that you have a seamless transition into adulthood here!

Also, be prepared to consume a lot of Chick-fil-A. Go Racers!

Gage Johnson Editor-in-Chief

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Racer Life Guide

The News 2020-21

The News

Racer Life Guide

2020-21

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From the desk of the president Students: Welcome to Murray State University!

I am pleased to officially welcome you to Murray State for the start of the Fall 2020 Semester.

When I first came to Murray State as an undergraduate student, I immediately connected with the attractive campus and warm, friendly atmosphere of this great university. Much has changed at Murray State since I was a student, but the core values of our university have remained the same. Murray State continues to thrive on a beautiful, historic campus where students engage in a rich legacy of academic excellence provided by world-class faculty and staff in a caring, family-like atmosphere.

As the 14th president of Murray State and a proud alumnus, it is my sincere hope that every student will take the time to enjoy the multitude of opportunities our university has to offer.

Students, I hope you take full advantage of all the opportunities provided to you during your time at Murray State – from the Student Government Association and Residential College Association to Greek Life, to Racer Band, to athletics – or one of the other 180 campus organizations.

Murray State is an exceptional university and will provide you with many opportunities to learn and create a pathway in order to reach your goals. If you are a traditional first-time freshman, or transferring from a community college or another university or a non-traditional student, Murray State has developed programs and

structures to meet your needs. We pride ourselves on focusing on our students to help ensure their success. Please be sure to take advantage of all these opportunities.

Let’s make it a great semester!

GO RACERS!

Bob Jackson Ed.D. President Photo courtesy of Murray State University Jackson took over as Murray State President on March 1, 2019.

Photo courtesy of Bob Jackson’s Twitter Jackson talks to a student as students, faculty and staff begin to arrive on campus for the fall semester.

Letter from SGA President Warren Norman Greetings Fellow Racers, I am so excited to welcome you to Murray State University! My name is Warren Norman and I’m honored to serve you as the Student Government Association president and student regent for the 2020-21 school year. My goal is to continue to mold Murray into the best college campus and university in the commonwealth of Kentucky.

The Student Government Association, commonly known as SGA, is not only a large part of campus, but a huge tradition of Murray State. SGA is made up of five different branches, the Judicial Board, Campus Activities Board, the Residential College Association, and the Student Senate. These essential entities make up the system of students that ensure each student is heard, treated fairly, and shown the Racer experience we all deserve.

If you are interested in being part of SGA, please go to the Center for Student Involvement located on the first floor of the Curris Center, down the hallway beside the Chick-fil-A entrance.

My office, as well as the Executive Board offices are located there, along with Jeanie Morgan who is the Advisor for SGA and Student Organizations. If you want to learn more about how to get involved, or join one of the over 180 student organizations, we would love to help you in your journey.

A few simple tips for helping any new or incoming transfer

Photo courtesy of Warren Norman Warren Norman is in his first year as SGA President.

students are: GO TO CLASS I cannot stress this enough.

Making it to every class, day in and day out, dramatically increases your chance of passing and doing well in all university courses.

MAKE GOOD DECISIONS! I always tell future Racers who are touring our campus that just because your parents aren’t with

you does not mean you should plan to run wild. Be the respectable person your parents or guardian, have raised you to be.

GET INVOLVED In college, your number one responsibility is your education, but after that, you should be able to learn and grow through experiencing campus life. Outside of your college education, which is your main focus, you should try something new. Again, being a Racer means that you have lots

of opportunities to get involved in campus life.

As your SGA President, my number one priority is to be the voice of our campus, being here to bridge the gap between the university and the student body. Please feel free to come see me in the Center for Student Involvement or email me at wnorman@murraystate. edu. I am here to advocate on your behalf, so please contact me anytime. Our weekly SGA meetings are open to the public, and we welcome student opinions on any topic dealing with issues regarding our campus or Murray State in general.

Senate meetings are located in the Barkley Room, on the third floor of the Curris Center each Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 p.m. Please join us!

In closing, when you arrive here in the fall, put your best foot forward. Give Murray State your all and make a commitment to be involved with campus life. Make Murray your home, and grow each and every day that you are here. Lastly, this university is here to help you achieve your dreams, succeed and grow because together we are more than just the greatest college in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, We are Racers!

Go Racers and as always, shoes up!

Warren C. Norman SGA President

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Staying safe at Murray State chief of police, said students, faculty and staff should also download LiveSafe on their phones.

“LiveSafe is the official safety To ensure the safety of students, app of the University,” Herring Murray State has implemented said. “All members of our commuseveral safety measures on campus. nity should have this app on their The Murray State Police Dephones. This app provides quick partment is always available for access to text messages or call the students in trouble. They are Murray State Police Department, staffed 24/7 with 16 sworn officers emergency procedures and Safe and 24 support staff. MS PD can Walk options.” be reached by calling (270) 809The app offers several features 2222. to ensure the safety of students, If students find themselves in an faculty and staff while walking emergency on campus, they can around campus. reach the police department by The SafeWalk feature allows activating a nearby call box. students to let their friends make On campus, there are a total of sure they safely arrive at their 40 emergency call boxes including destination as well as contact the two different types: yellow call police department in the case of boxes and blue light call boxes. an emergency.

Both types are directly linked to The GoSafe feature allows stuthe Murray State police dispatch. dents to contact Racer Patrol for The blue light emergency call an on-campus escort. boxes found on campus are the In addition to LiveSafe, Herring posts with the solar panels and a said students should ensure they blue light on top. The word “emerkeep their cell phone information gency” is written on the post. updated on myGate to receive Should an emergency occur, stuRacer Alert notifications. MS dents can activate the call box by PD uses Racer Alert to notify the pressing the emergency button on community of emergencies, like the box. Once activated, the blue tornadoes, via text, email, social light on top of the post will start media and sirens. flashing. An officer will then be Herring said to ensure the safety dispatched and receive the locaof students, it’s important for partion of the call box immediately. ents to talk to their children about The yellow call boxes also offer a the importance of safety before direct line of communication with leaving for college. the Murray State Police Depart“We always ask parents to ment. However, they do not flash reinforce that after students leave a light when activated. They can the house, they become largely be found on the sides of buildings responsible for their own safety,” and poles on campus, like residenHerring said. “It is a change of tial colleges. mindset. We are there to help, but Jamie Herring, Murray State the students have to take responDaniella Tebib News Editor dtebib@murraystate.edu

Jillian Rush/TheNews Emergency call boxes and the MSU PD are located on campus.

sibility for securing their property and being alert to any threats to their personal safety. Encourage them to use the LiveSafe app and

to take advantage of the Safe Walk and walking escort service.”

For more information, visit murraystate.edu/police.

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Racer Life Guide

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Murray State full of campus traditions Cady Stribling Features Editor cstribling1@murraystate.edu

Traditions are what make Murray State unique, giving the community that sense of Racer Pride and memories that last a lifetime. Many traditions have only been around for a few years while others have been active for many decades.

Great Beginnings, a tradition designed solely for helping new students, has been ongoing for 26 years. Kate Johnson, coordinator for Student Engagement and Success, describes it as an opportunity to become acquainted with campus, the community and other services provided by Murray State.

“When new students get to campus we want the transition to Murray State to be as easy and smooth as possible so that is why we offer programming and support starting with move-in day,” Johnson said.

After training on how to provide this support as best as possible, Great Beginnings Leaders serve as mentors to create a welcoming environment, help students move into residential colleges, and help them find their classes.

More exciting events include Explore Murray, where businesses around the community showcase all they have to offer with giveaways, and hypnotist Tom Deluca performs for the student body.

“We want our new students to feel part of the Racer tradition right when they arrive on campus,” Johnson said.

“There is always someone there willing to help.”

First year students also have the opportunity to rush the football field in what is known as the Gold Rush before the first home football game.

The beloved water balloon fight is another recent campus tradition that

Richard Thompson/TheNews The infamous Shoe Tree is located in the quad on campus.

takes place at the beginning of the school year. Thousands of students throw thousands of water balloons at one another on the football field for a fun night.

The Shoe Tree started as a tradition in the 1960s and is one of Murray State’s most recognizable features. You can find pairs of shoes of “sole” mates, and even a few children’s shoes, hung on the tree of love.

Murray community members love showing their football spirit with another long-standing tradition of cheering on Racer One. Since 1976, each touchdown at Roy Stewart Stadium has been celebrated with a loud “Clear the track!” and a victory lap by Racer One. Aside from our football-centered traditions, Murray State loves to cele-

brate with spectacular shows. Campus Lights is nationally recognized as one of the longest running student-produced musicals in the south. Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the men’s music fraternity, started the tradition and Racers have enjoyed it ever since 1938.

All Campus Sing, a fan favorite since 1958, has incorporated the community, faculty and staff, students and family for a fun day in the Quad.

The entire town shows up to support different student organizations from Greek to residential colleges as they showcase their prepared song and dance at this much anticipated performance.

Each year, alumni and current students come together with the rest of the community to celebrate Homecoming Weekend, one of the biggest

Murray State traditions. Director of Alumni Relations Carrie McGinnis estimates that 9,000 people come to town for Homecoming events.

“Thousands of Racer alumni and friends from all over the country and all over the world so fondly remember their Murray State experience and the way it made them feel,” McGinnis said. “It is not just an institution or where they went to college. It is home.”

During the week leading up to the football game, Murray State hosts long-lived traditions such as A Taste of the Arts dinner and auction, banquets and reunions. Racer Band kicks off the Homecoming Parade with the newly elected Homecoming king and queen, and Greek life displays dozens of decorative floats.

Tailgating at Tent City, a tradition started in the ‘80s, takes place prior to the football game. The much anticipated event consists of all student organizations and clubs setting up tents around the football field while alumni and the community visit with one another. School pride is strong as people grill out and get ready for the game.

McGinnis said Homecoming Weekend and everyone coming together at the game is a great time for students to network with alumni and make incredible connections who might provide opportunities for them after graduation.

“To see the past, present and future all connected by a common bond and shared experience, that is what makes Murray State Homecoming special,” McGinnis said.

From Homecoming to the superstitions of rubbing Rainey T. Well’s diploma for good luck, to Midnight Breakfast before finals week, Murray State has the best traditions.

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The News 2020-21

Three tips to a successful college career

Megan Reynolds Contributing Writer mreynolds12@murraystate.edu

These days, it seems like everywhere you look there’s some sort of article or blog offering tips that are sure to save your life in college.

Truthfully, this is just another one of those articles, but at least it’s self aware, right?

So, here are three tips, straight from the minds of students and alumni, that will hopefully give you some sense of preparedness for your college career.

Time Management, 100 Percent Tip number one is pretty simple— learn to manage your time in the most efficient way possible. This one comes from Reagan Zimmerman, a senior journalism and strategic communication major at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

“Without [time management], suffering is near,” Zimmerman said.

Time management is different for every student. The amount of time you dedicate to an assignment or to studying for a class is going to depend on you, your confidence in the content and the content itself. A senior pre-medical student is going to have different content than a senior accounting student, so the time they dedicate to homework is going to be different.

Analyze both your work style and your classes when deciding how much time you’ll need to set aside.

When you set that time aside, stick to it. Throw off your schedule once and it’ll become a habit before you know it.

Stay Organized This next tip comes from Cayden Hernandez, a senior Japanese major at Murray State.

“Staying organized and making schedules for yourself helps you get things done better and more effi-

ciently,” Hernandez said.

Organization and time management are two things that really go hand in hand. To manage your time well is to be an organized person. Hernandez recommends making a game plan for your semester to help keep you organized.

Before your semester even begins, lay out a plan, however that might look for you. If it’s as simple as setting out three goals, then that’s what it is. If it means writing out each week and what needs to happen in what week, then that’s what it is. Just make sure you have a plan.

Don’t let your organization stop with your schedule, either.

Having your belongings and your school supplies in an orderly manner is not only going to cut down on your time looking for things, but your anxiety in your environment as well. Less mess is less stress.

Take Time to Reflect

The last bit of advice comes from Kristen Creech, a graduate student in the business administration program at Murray State. She encourages students, new and current, to reflect on their journey to this moment.

“Hopefully your reflection time will give you the inspiration and motivation to finish strong,” Creech said.

No matter where you are in your college career, give yourself time to look back on what has gotten you to this point. Where you are right now, it’s an amazing place. It doesn’t matter where, you’re doing an outstanding job. You have carried yourself through life, ups and downs, successes and failures, and brought yourself to this moment. So, reflect on that journey, look at all of the work you’ve put in and be proud of it.

Once you have done that, use that pride to inspire yourself as you face this next moment of life: your college career.

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How to maintain your mental health Daniella Tebib News Editor dtebib@murraystate.edu

Transitioning into college can be scary, but Murray State offers many resources to help students with their mental health.

Angie Trzepacz, director of University Counseling Services, said freshmen don’t necessarily struggle more than other students, but they deal with different issues.

“For many students, this is their first time being away from home and being independent and in charge of their own schedule,” Trezpacz said.

“Some students love that, but others struggle at first. It’s not uncommon for freshmen to feel homesick or lonely or overwhelmed by the workload in college or wonder where they fit in on campus or how to meet new people. Those are all things that counselors can help with.”

To help students, faculty and staff on campus, Murray State provides a variety of free counseling services including individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. The services are provided by licensed mental health professionals in three different centers: the Counseling Center, the Psychological Center and the Counseling and Assessment Center. Clients are typically seen on a biweekly basis, but if clients are in a crisis, they can be seen weekly on a short-term basis.

However, counseling services do not perform court-ordered or court-mandated counseling or assessment. The center also does not provide primary substance-abuse treatment, prescription services, or letters for students seeking emotional support animals.

The Counseling Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday

Jillian Rush/TheNews Former SGA President Trey Book speaks to students about mental health.

through Friday. The University also has a counselor on call from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday during the academic year to meet with walk-in clients or help with crisis situations.

All staff members in the Counseling Center adhere to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act to ensure all discussions with counselors and completed paperwork is treated confidentially.

Common issues students can utilize counseling services for are adjusting to new situations, depression, managing stress, homesickness, anxiety, poor anger control, grief, eating and body image issues, relationship issues, social issues, family problems, Asperger’s Disorder, crisis intervention, suicidal thoughts, trauma recovery, diversity and cultural issues, LGBTQIA+

concerns, self-awareness, self-care and public speaking anxiety management, according to Murray State’s Counseling Center’s website.

Trzepacz said she encourages students to come forward about their mental health if they are dealing with issues.

“If you need to talk to a counselor, that is nothing to be ashamed of or feel bad about,” Trzepacz said. “We are here to help, and it doesn’t mean you are a failure if you can’t do it on your own. If you have a cavity, you don’t try to fill it on your own—you go to a dentist, because they are trained to fix your cavity properly and safely. If you are anxious or depressed, and your mental health issues are interfering with your ability to function and participate in your normal activities, it’s time to contact a mental

health professional and ask for assistance.”

When getting situated into a new lifestyle, Trzepacz said it’s important to establish a schedule and routine.

“Even if you aren’t leaving the house and don’t have any scheduled activities for the day, try to get up at a reasonable hour, take a shower, eat breakfast and make a list of what you want to accomplish during the day,” Trzepacz said. “Some days that list might include homework or cleaning your room or going to work, and other days the list might include going for a walk, calling a friend and playing with your dog. And then try to go to bed at a reasonable hour as well, so that your schedule doesn’t get completely off track.”

For more information, visit murraystate.edu/counselingcenter.

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Racer Life Guide

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Clubs and Organizations Ways to get involved on campus A

• Active Minds • Ads Club • Advocating for Respect Culture • Agribusiness Club • Agriculture Ambassadors • Agriculture Engineering & Technology Club • Agriculture Leadership Council • Agronomy Club • Alpha Delta Pi • Alpha Gamma Delta • Alpha Gamma Rho • Alpha Kappa Alpha • Alpha Kappa Psi • Alpha Mu Gamma • Alpha Omicron Pi • Alpha Sigma Alpha • Alpha Sigma Phi • Alpha Tau Omega • Alpha Zeta Honors • Alpha Upsilon Alpha Literacy Honor Society • American Medical Women’s Association • American Industrial Hygiene Association • American Institute of Professional Geologists • American Society of Safety Professionals • Amnesty International • Animal Technology and Health Club • Archery Club • Aspiring Authors • Association for Computing Machinery • Association of Information Technology Professionals • Association of PostSecondary Education Administrative Leaders • Association of Telecommunications System Management

B

• Baptist Campus Ministry • Bass Anglers • Belize Student Organization • Best Buddies • Beta Beta Beta • Biological Honor Society • Black Student Council • Block and Bridle

C

• Campus Activities Board • Campus Lights • Clay Target Club • College Democrats • College Republicans • College of Education and Human Services Student Ambassadors • Collegiate FFA • Collegiate 4H • Criminal Justice Society

D

• Dance Company • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated • Delta Zeta • Design Ideas for Humanity • Ducks Unlimited

E

• Elizabeth College Honor Society • Elizabeth Residential College Council • Eloquent Commitment to Helping Our Sisters • English Student Organization • Environmental Engineering Technology Society • Environmental Student Society • Episcopal College Foundation • Epsilon Nu Chapter of Beta Alpha Psi

• Euclidean Math Club • Exercise Science Club

F

• Family & Consumer Sciences • Fencing Club • Fulbright Club

G

• Game Anime Manga Enthusiasts • Game Lab • Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society • Gentleman’s Service Club • Geoclub

H

• Hart Residential College Council • Health and Wellness Education Association • Her Campus Murray State • Hester Residential College Council • Horticulture Club • Honors Student Council • Horseman’s Association

I

• Indian Students’ Association • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers • International Cultures and Languages Association • InterFraternity Council • International Student Organization

J

• Japanese Club • Journey Student Organization • Judicial Board

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K

• Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity • Kappa Delta Pi • Kappa Delta Sorority • Kentucky Association of Nursing Students • Kentucky Education Association Student Program • Korean Student Association

L

• Lambda Chi Alpha • Lambda Zeta Omicron • League of Legends • Lee Clark Residential College Council • Lions Club • Love MKY Campus Ministry

M

• Men’s Soccer Club • Middle Level Association • Ministry Open to All • Mock Trial • Model United Nations • Murray Christian Fellowship • M-Track Records

N

• National Art Education Association • National Council of Teachers of English Student Affiliate • National Pan-Hellenic Council • National Residence Hall Honorary • National Society of Collegiate Scholars • National Society of Leadership and Success • National Student Speech Language Hearing Association • Newman House

Catholic Campus Ministry

O

• Occupational Therapy Association • Omicron Delta Kappa • Omicron Sigma Kappa • Order of Omega Greek Honor Society • Organization of Murray Art Students

P

• Panhellenic Council • Phi Kappa Tau - Delta Pi Chapter • Phi Mu Alpha Sinifonia • Pi Kappa Alpha • Pre-Health Professionals (PHP) • Pre-Law Student Association • PSI CHI • Psychology Club • Public Relations Student Society of America

R

• Racer Band • Racer Girls • Racer Veteran Students of America • Racers for Christ • Radical Athlete and Student Oasis Ministry • Regents Residential College Council • Residential College Association • Rho Sigma Kappa • Richmond Residential College Council • Rodeo Club • Rotaract Murray State • Rowing • Running Club

S

• Saudi Students Organization • SciFi Club

• Secular Student Alliance • Sigma Alpha • Sigma Alpha Iota • Sigma Alpha Lambda • Sigma Chi • Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity • Sigma Pi • Sigma Sigma Sigma • Society for Human Resource Management • Sock N Buskin • Speech & Debate Union • Springer-Franklin Residential College Council • St. Jude Up ‘til Dawn • Student Ambassadors • Student Association of Social Workers • Student Chapter of the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing • Student Council for Exceptional Children • Student Government Association • Student Members of The American Chemical Society

T V

• TV Club • Voices of Praise Ministries

W

• Wesley Foundation • White Residential College Council • Wildlife and Fisheries Society • Women in Mathematics • Women in STEM

Z

• Zeta Phi Beta

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Racer Life Guide

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The News 2020-21

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Staying healthy and active on campus Cady Stribling Features Editor cstribling1@murraystate.edu In college, there are so many things to learn about besides your major. You learn about living on your own and how to balance a packed schedule all while taking care of yourself.

It can be difficult to pull away from the never-ending assignments, but it is so important to make time for mental and physical self-care.

Murray State offers plenty of opportunities to be active in fun, unique ways. The Susan E. Bauernfeind Wellness Center, located on the residential side of campus, is one of the most accessible and versatile ways to stay active.

“One thing we hope for Murray State students to learn are healthy habits, such as exercising, having a balanced diet, socializing, being organized, time management and getting enough sleep,” said Travis Rawe, director of campus recreation and wellness.

One way to do this, Rawe said, is to utilize the center and fit visits into weekly schedules to create healthy habits.

The Wellness Center offers the usual gym equipment on the first and second floors, as well as two basketball courts, two racquetball rooms and a swimming pool. It also offers personal training and private group fitness classes for student groups.

Various group fitness classes are also provided for students in the center. Rawe said the wide variety includes yoga, spin, water aerobics, zumba, H.I.I.T and STRONG. “The Wellness Center is a very popular place to visit and unwind from a typical day of a college student,” Rawe said.

In the 2018-19 academic year, Rawe said students visited the Well-

Photo courtesy of Murray State University Human Resources Facebook Page The Bauernfeind Recreation and Wellness Center is open Monday through Sunday at various times listed on the Murray State website.

ness Center about 96,000 times.

Besides all the activities in the Wellness Center, clubs and teams offer sports of all kinds. No matter athletic ability, any student can sign up for fencing, tennis, archery and disc golf clubs, just to name a few.

Murray State provides a rowing and equestrian team, which require a larger time commitment but are just as enjoyable. And if anyone is looking for a simple run outdoors, there are multiple marked trails on campus and a path through the arboretum.

Intramurals, a Racer favorite, give current students, faculty and staff a great way to engage in sports in the fall and spring semesters. Rawe, who is head of intramurals, said participation is free.

In the fall, students can play kickball, cornhole, golf and disc golf.

One-day tournaments consist of golf, basketball, bowling, ping pong and a 5k Homecoming run.

Spring sports leagues include basketball, volleyball, innertube water polo and soccer. The one-day tournaments consist of racquetball, tennis, March Madness pick ‘em and IM combine.

“There are a variety of ways to get involved in intramural sports,” Rawe said. “You can play with your residential college, and each residential college will usually create two to three teams per sport.”

Greek and other student organizations are another way to get involved, Rawe said, making up almost half of the teams. You can also register alone and join a team that already exists, which is possible at www.imleagues.com.

Many intramurals can be a huge

time commitment and Rawe preaches on the importance of balancing school and sports.

“No student is attending college solely to be crowned an intramural champion,” Rawe said. “They are here to be educated and get a degree. Our programs are here to provide healthy and fun activities for you while you are working hard for that degree.”

With COVID-19, Rawe and staff have put a plethora of guidelines in place. This includes a mask policy, social distancing practices, limited check-out equipment and suspension of pick-up basketball and racquetball courts.

“We will communicate everything you need to know about our facility and programs, including new policies or changes, before you arrive on campus,” Rawe said.

Photo courtesy of Murray State University Campus Recreation and Wellness’ Facebook Page The Bauernfeind Recreation and Wellness Center made changes for the fall semester, including equipment relocation, mask policies basketball and racquetball courts adjustments, and limited checkout equipment.

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2020-21