Marty Hamilton announces retirement
and industry. Seven years later, he transitioned to associate vice president of Financial Administration.
Marty Hamilton, senior vice president of financial administration at Southern Adventist University, has announced his plans to retire in March 2025 after nearly 20 years in the department.
Since 2005, Hamilton has worked on countless building projects and renovations, and directed Architectural Services, Campus Safety, Transportation, Landscape Services and Plant Services.
Hamilton began working at Southern in 1998, initially serving as director of property
In an interview with the Accent, Hamilton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
"I feel a strong kin- ship to what we do here. And I want to see it continue.”
“The Lord’s really blessed me and given me wisdom on how to handle some of the circumstances that I’ve dealt with here,” he said. “So I feel really blessed. Even though I didn’t attend Southern Adven-
tist University, I feel a strong kinship to what we do here. And I want to see it continue.”
Under his guidance, Southern completed building projects such as the Bietz Center for Student Life, Mountain Cottages and Southern Village. His teams also led structural renovations, including a complete change of the interior in Summerour Hall and Wright Hall and the addition of a second-floor extension in McKee Library.
Bob Young, senior vice president of Academic Administration, works with Hamilton weekly and noted his extensive work on Southern’s campus.
“Marty wants to make sure that the things he oversees are meeting the needs of the campus."
“I’d say almost every building on campus has been touched in some significant way by the team of people that he leads,” Young said. “Marty wants to make sure that the things he oversees are meeting the needs of the campus. He cares deeply about his work, the people he leads and the students and staff who live and work here.”
See Hamilton on page 2
On Jan. 23, 2025, Advance Auto Parts had its grand opening for business at Four Corners in Collegedale, according to store worker Hunter Landell and a Facebook post. The auto parts store is located in a building that once held a Rite Aid pharmacy.
Christian Patino, an alumnus of Southern Adventist University who lived in the area from 2004 to 2020, said he thinks having new businesses come in will attract others. He used restaurants as an analogy to explain that once one business starts to attract a lot of customers, other investors will want to do the same.
"I think it’s a good thing overall, instead of it being like an empty building for so long, for so many years.”
“[The more] business starts coming, more interest grows in this plaza,” Patino said. “I think at the end, the citizens, the ones who live close [are the ones] who win, which I think it’s good for them. I think it’s a good thing overall, instead of it being like an empty building for so long, for so many years.”
Collegedale resident Jeremy Beasley believes that having an auto parts store in the
Black Christian Union welcomes new president following departure
Eva Resz Reporter
The Black Christian Union (BCU) at Southern Adventist University is ushering in a new era this semester, with Daniela Dreke, a sophomore psychology major, stepping into the role of president.
Dreke, who was previously the club’s treasurer, is continuing the work of her predecessor, Sue Ondieki, who made the decision to resign from the position because she is transferring to Arizona State University.
“One of the main reasons
I chose to step down was because I’m leaving Southern,” said Ondieki. “As much as I would love to stay and continue my term, it wasn’t my choice. However, I fully believe BCU is in the best hands with the new president. She is one of my closest friends, and I trust her leadership completely.”
"Sue was
doing
an awesome job, and we ensured that she knew that."
According to Ayanna Eastman, lead faculty sponsor
of BCU, Ondieki’s impact on the club remains significant despite her departure from the presidency.
“Sue was doing an awesome job, and we ensured that she knew that,” Eastman said. “Daniela, being familiar with the club’s operations and finances, was the natural choice to step into the role.
“It was a no-drama transition,” Eastman continued, “and everything is flowing smoothly so far.”
Eastman said BCU serves as a cultural hub for students of African descent at Southern University, offering a
space for fellowship, cultural exchange and spiritual growth.
While the club initially focused on Black American students, she said, it has evolved into a space for students of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.
“I know that just like you have LAC (Latin American Club) and you have the Asian Club, BCU is the Black Christian club for students of color,” said Eastman. “And it doesn’t just have to be students of color; we have students of all different cultures and ethnicities.”
As Dreke steps into her new position as president, she remains focused on maintaining the foundation built by Ondieki.
As Dreke steps into her new position as president, she remains focused on maintaining the foundation built by Ondieki. She said no significant changes are needed since BCU already has a solid flow and system.
“While I’ve stepped up into a new role, I see this as an opportunity to build on the foundation we’ve established, strengthen our teamwork and explore ways to enhance member engagement and participation,” Drake said. Her primary goal this
semester is to lead her team purposefully, particularly as the club prepares for its main event of the year: BCU Night.
“This event is important for us to share and celebrate the diversity within our club, so make sure to come to BCU Night on Feb. 22,” Drake said. “I also want to focus on strengthening connections with our members by creating opportunities for everyone to contribute and leave a lasting impact that inspires our cultural heritage.”
Ondieki said her time as president was wonderful, and being part of the club gave her a sense of community while attending Southern. Some of her duties as president included sharing ideas with officers, organizing events, planning activities and supporting the club members. Reflecting on her time as president, Ondieki shared her gratitude for the experience and the support she received.
“I especially loved it because of my sponsors, Dr. Eastman, Professor Dolcy, Dr. Johnson, Dean Willis, and Dean Pride,” Ondeiki said. “They were the best support system I could have asked for. Their encouragement and guidance helped me bring my visions for the club to life while working toward our motto, ‘Building Bridges.’ ”
Ana K. Zelidon Copy Editor
Marty Hamilton (right) and former Southern president David Smith (left) speak at the construction site for the Bietz Center in 2019.
Daniela Dreke (left) and Sue Ondieki (right).
(Photo by Janelle Ko)
Hayden Kobza Managing Editor
Club members perform on stage for BCU night.
(Photo by Mila Bales)
Auto Parts
continued from page 1
heart of the city is an excellent development for the area.
“I think it’s a good idea, a good location,” Beasley said. “We’ve broken down over at the park before, so it’s nice that something’s in walking distance.”
Beasley explained that with the growth of the parks nearby and the growth of the city itself, the auto parts store is in a central location.
“You don’t just see an empty, vacant building, which [was] a bad reflection on the city itself,” Beasley said.
Community leader David Barto, director of the Collegedale Tomorrow Foundation (CTF), wants to see the Four Corners area grow larger than just the addition of the Advance Auto Parts.
In October 2023, Barto told the Accent that his foundation’s vision for the area included a “retro makeover” that would convert strip shops into complexes, add trees and extend pathways and benches.
“It would look like you are driving into an oldtown square,” Barto said in the article.
He said having a new business is better than an empty building, even if it doesn’t line up with his original plan.
Hamilton
continued from page 1
Interior designer Becky Djernes, who also worked closely with Hamilton, shared her admiration for his vision and dedication.
“Marty has had Southern’s best interest at heart for over 27 years,” Djernes said. “I do not think anybody in the history of Southern has so affected the face of this campus as Marty Hamilton.” She recalled how Hamilton challenged his team to connect with students despite the nature of their roles.
"His hands have been in every part of campus for the past two decades."
“Marty loves interacting with students and has encouraged his team to think differently, to say 'hi' on the promenade and to engage wherever possible,” Djernes said. “His work touches everything—from resurfacing parking lots to landscaping to ensuring the garbage gets picked up. His hands have been in every part of the campus for the past two decades.”
Hamilton’s impact extended beyond infrastructure to personal connections with students, such as Chehalis Eno, a senior English major and a member of Southern’s Blacksmithing Club. Eno shared in an email interview with the Accent that Hamilton had been instrumental in helping the club when they had difficulties with their meeting location.
"Without his help, our shop may well have been demolished."
“Marty has always been very open to working with me and the club to ensure that we have a place to forge and store our equipment,” Eno said. “Without his help, our shop
Southern Accent
The Accent encourages readers to write articles and voice their opinions. However, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Accent, Southern Adventist University or the Seventh-day Adventist Church. For any questions, comments and article submission information, email the editor at morquia@southern.edu For all advertising inquiries, email studentadmgr@southern.edu.
“I can’t make the property owners bulldoze their building,” Barto said. “The plan was a concept of what was possible. Until the owners of the property say we want to tear everything down and do that, that’s the limits of my
may well have been demolished without a plan in place for a new home, which would have been an incredibly difficult situation to rebuild from.”
"The hardest part will be leaving my office and team."
As he prepares for retirement, Hamilton acknowledged the bittersweet nature of leaving his role.
“The hardest part will be leaving my office and team,” he said. “This has been my home, so there’s sadness involved in having to walk away. There’s excitement about new adventures I’m planning with my family, but it’s also just a sadness of not seeing the people I work with here on campus. I’m trying to emotionally get prepared for that departure.”
Djernes said Hamilton’s legacy at Southern will undoubtedly endure in the buildings he helped construct, the teams he inspired and the faith-driven spirit of humility and leadership he brought to every endeavor.
“Marty is an inspiration,”
she said. “His vision and dedication have made Southern an inviting and beautiful place for students and staff alike.”
When asked what he thinks his legacy will be, Hamilton hopes it will be how he and his team have improved the lives of students.
"I’m at peace with the fact that
for
27 years, I’ve been able to impact the life of this campus.”
“Every time I visit this campus, I have some very tangible structures that show what my team and I have done for the betterment of this campus,” Hamilton said. “That brings me great joy and peace, and I see that as being successful. I’m at peace with the fact that for 27 years, I’ve been able to impact the life of this campus.”
abilities to do anything.”
Barto believes the store will attract more companies to the area, since the City of Collegedale might not, at first glance, seem like a winning proposition for potential business investors.
He explained that because the 37363 ZIP code covers such
a large area, the population density seems very low, making it look like very few people live close to Four Corners. Only businesses that take a closer look begin to understand that the ZIP code, which covers unincorporated Ooltewah, does not closely coincide with Collegedale city limits, said Barto.
“Because stores use each other’s sales as a way to factor in if they want to move to an area ... if they can make money, then that’s going to tell other stores that they can come here and do the same,” Barto said.
Advanced Auto Parts is open at Four Corners in Collegedale.
(Photo by Elias Zabala)
Hamilton and his team helped create the plans for the Bietz Center for Student Life.
(Photo courtesy of Southern Adventist University)
The upcoming Ruth Mckee School of Business is one of the latest projects worked on by Hamilton and his team. (Photo courtesy of Southern Adventist University)
Hamilton and his team contributed to the design and construction of Southern's mountain cottages.
(Photo courtesy of Southern Adventist University)
Remembering Jack Blanco, Clear Word author and former Southern professor
Matthew Orquia Editor-in-Chief
Jack Blanco, author of The Clear Word paraphrase of the Bible and former dean of Southern Adventist University’s School of Religion, died on Jan. 11. He was 95. His death was announced on Jan. 21 by the North-American Division (NAD) Office of Communication.
Greg King, dean of Southern’s School of Religion, reflected on Blanco’s passing.
“Though Jack Blanco was short in stature, he was a spiritual giant of a man.”
“Though Jack Blanco was short in stature, he was a spiritual giant of a man,” King stated. “His love [for] God, his commitment to Scripture, and his dedication to the church were palpable and contagious. He sought every opportunity to bring encouragement to others and to point them to the Lord as the answer to life’s deepest questions. He will surely be missed!”
Blanco worked in ministry and academia before joining Southern as faculty in 1983. For the Potomac, New Jersey, Georgia-Cumberland and Southeastern California conferences, he served in various roles, including as evangelistic coordinator, pastoral assistant and pastor, according to the NAD.
In 1941, Blanco was sent to a labor camp in Germany.
In addition, he chaired the graduate program at Philippine Union College (now Adventist University of the Philippines) and the theology departments at Solusi College (now Solusi University) in Zimbabwe.
A Chicago native, Blanco had a tumultuous childhood, with his father leaving his
BCU
continued from page 1
“The club and its leaders made me feel welcome and at home."
“Being in the club gave me a sense of belonging on campus, especially since I transitioned from a public school in Minnesota to a Christian school,” she said. “The change was dramatic, but the club and its leaders made me feel welcome and at home.”
According to Eastman, Ondieki will continue contributing to the club’s activities, including helping with BCU Night. Although Ondieki is no longer the president, she remains a part of the BCU family.
“This upcoming semester, I’m excited to still be involved
mother before Blanco’s birth in 1929, according to a 2014 interview published in Southern Columns. When he was 9 years old, Blanco visited his grandparents in Germany and had the opportunity to stay there for a year. However, right before his scheduled return home, the inception of World War II forced Blanco to remain in Germany, where he worked on the family farm and continued his education.
He left his childhood faith after his experiences during World War II.
Despite successfully concealing his American identity for a time, in 1941, Blanco was sent to a labor camp in Germany, where he faced grueling work and physical abuse. He escaped the labor camp
with BCU Night by helping choreograph the dances,” said Ondieki. “It’s a blessing to remain connected to the club and contribute in this way, even as I transition into a new chapter of my life.”
"I
think everyone will miss her in the presidential role.”
“She’ll be around,” said Eastman, “and I think everyone will miss her in the presidential role.”
While details about the BCU Night remain under wraps, Eastman hinted in an interview with the Accent that “pop-up” activities will be a part of the event. She said BCU Night is open to all students and the wider community, including family and friends.
in 1945 during the U.S. invasion of Germany and arrived at his grandparents’ house weighing scarcely more than 80 pounds. At age 16, Blanco finally returned home to the United States.
Although he was raised in a Catholic family, he left his childhood faith after his experiences during World War II. While he served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, Blanco searched for someone to model his life after, and he heard a voice suggesting Jesus. This resulted in Blanco spending time in the base library, reading Bible Readings for the Home Circle, which was labeled as the “Bible.”
After further studying, Blanco was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church while serving with the Air Force in Guam.
He went on to a career in ministry after earning a
degree from Union College (now Union Adventist University) and studying at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary in Michigan. He also earned a Master of Theology degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Theology degree from the University of South Africa.
"I always tell them to give the glory to God. That is my goal in life.”
In 1983, Blanco accepted an offer to join Southern as a professor in the School of Religion, where he eventually served as dean until his retirement in 2000. While at Southern, he began the project that would eventually become The Clear Word Bible paraphrase, starting with the book of Mark. Seven years later, although he
had not originally intended to publish his writings, The Clear Word was released. His paraphrase has since been read by thousands. In the Southern Columns article, Blanco said, “When people thank me for what The Clear Word has done for them, I always tell them to give the glory to God. That is my goal in life.”
According to the NAD, Blanco’s son Steve passed away in 2009, and his wife, Marion, passed away in 2012. He is survived by his daughter, Cheri Blanco Jones, and her husband, Geoff, his grandson, Derek, and three great-grandchildren.
A memorial service, hosted at the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists, is planned for the spring.
COLLEGEDALE NEWS
Celebrating female friendships at Collegedale’s Galentine’s Disco night
Emma Rodriguez
Collegedale News Editor
Collegedale Parks and Recreation plans to host its Galentine’s Disco on Friday, Feb. 7. This event, designed for women 14 and older, will offer free admission. It is advertised as an evening filled with laughter, skating and community bonding.
“I wish I knew about more events like this happening in the Collegedale community.”
“This is for all women who want to celebrate their lady friends in a safe environment,” Christina Clark, the Collegedale Parks and Recreation supervisor stated in a press release.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their disco outfits and roller skates to enjoy a pop-up skating rink at Founders Hall in the Collegedale Commons at 4750 Swinyar Drive. In addition to skating, the event lineup includes karaoke, crafting, games and food.
“We will feature only female-owned businesses to provide services such as Nooga Hat Bar, Melissa’s Meals on Wheels, GiGi’s Sweet Treats and Dazey Skate Co,” Clark stated.
This event will run from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is free for females ages 14 and up.
“I wish I knew about more events like this happening in the Collegedale community,” Hannah Stephens, junior nursing major said. “I
think it’s great to see something so unique and fun being organized.”
“I’ts such a wonderful opportunity to connect with others in a supportive and fun environment."
Alicia Anderson, senior nursing major, shared a similar sentiment.
“I’m definitely going to attend,” Anderson said. “I’ve always wished for more female-oriented spaces like this. It’s such a wonderful opportunity to connect with others in a supportive and fun environment.”
For more information about the Galentine’s Disco event, please call 423-468-1971 or email parksandrec@collegedaletn.gov.
Jack Blanco's memorial will be located at the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists in the spring.
(Photo courtesy of Southern Adventist University)
The Galentine's Disco flyer features the address for the location. (Photo Courtesy of Bridgette Raper)
mlk Service Day
Mauricio Jaldin distributes food for the volunteers at the Iles Gym.
Monday, January 20, 2025. (Photo by Mila Bales)
Obed Gonzalez helps move logs as a part of the service for MLK Day. Wednesday. January 20, 2025. (Photo by Shengzhe Zhao)
Megan Ewell bags dog food to distribute to a shelter. Monday, January 20, 2025. (Photo by Preston Waters)
Kara Walker puts heaters beside plants so they can get through the winter.
Monday, January 20, 2025. (Photo by Mila Bales)
Carson Marr helps the Samaritan Center sort clothes that will be put up for sale.
Monday, January 20, 2025. (Photo by Shengzhe Zao)
MENTAL HEALTH
Is a digital detox possible in college?
Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals and students from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.
Smartphones have become our ever-present, not-so-silent companions in daily life. Our screens are constantly filled with emails, texts, social media notifications and endless streams of content. The negative effects of being perpetually plugged in often outweigh the conveniences these devices offer.
However, it’s not just the barrage of notifications that’s problematic—it’s the addictive nature of our devices themselves.
A study by Baylor University, published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, found that female college students spend an average of 10 hours a day on their phones, while male students spend about eight.
This level of usage poses a significant risk to academic performance, but the impact goes beyond the classroom. Excessive phone use can affect mood, reduce productivity and destabilize overall mental health.
There is a remedy for the overwhelming, pixelated onslaught of smartphones, laptops and TVs: a digital detox.
Why Try It?
First, let’s define a digital detox and determine its benefits and what it means for college students. A digital detox is when someone voluntarily refrains from using personal digital devices. The length of this break can vary, but starting with smaller
increments is recommended.
Why would someone begin a digital detox? Avoiding electronics can lead to better sleep, increased productivity, enhanced mindfulness, reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, stronger relationships and a range of other benefits.
Sounds great, right? However, for college students, a complete separation from technology may seem almost impossible, especially with the majority of school and work activities that can only be done with technology.
Many students also rely on personal devices to communicate with family and friends, making a full digital detox feel unrealistic. Yet, there are still ways to reap the benefits of a detox by making small adjustments to how technology is used, achieving similar results without going entirely offline.
Practical Steps for College Students
One of the most effective ways to incorporate “mini” digital detoxes into your routine is by creating time blocks throughout your day. This could be 30 minutes or a few hours where you switch off your laptop and phone to focus on other activities. These breaks allow you to step away from your devices without fully disconnecting for days.
If you have more flexibility, consider using weekends to reconnect with the world around you, tackling activities you promised yourself you’d do earlier in the week.
Another great alternative to a full digital detox is establishing device-free zones. For many
people, this might be the bedroom or living room. However, as a college student living in a dorm, the room you choose is up to you. By keeping one area device-free, you’ll encourage yourself to engage more in real-world activities and build a habit of not using devices when you’re in that space.
If neither of these approaches seems doable, a simpler method is to limit your screen time. You can easily do this by adjusting your device’s settings to set limits on apps such as Instagram or TikTok—whichever platforms consume most of your time.
Apps designed to enforce
stricter limits on your screen time can also help you manage your usage more effectively.
The Balance Between Technology and Real Life
While it may feel counterintuitive in today’s hyper-connected world, the benefits of reducing digital and media-related distractions—especially for students—are undeniable. For example, replace 30 minutes of doom-scrolling with studying for tomorrow’s test. Instead of checking DMs, you could spend that time prepping for next week’s presentation.
Freeing yourself from the con-
stant obligation to stay connected not only brings mental clarity but also allows for more meaningful social interactions with people you enjoy. In many cases, the role technology plays in our productivity is essential. However, finding a balance between being connected and being present can be difficult in today’s fast-paced digital age. Hopefully, these small steps will help you regain control of your time and realize there’s more to life than checking your phone every few seconds. Start small: be mindful of how you are using your time and put your phone away.
SPORTS
Friends, Family and Fanhood: The importance of community in sports
Amy Van Arsdell Sports Editor
When you were home for Christmas break, did you gather in the living room to watch an NFL game with your family? Did you toss a basketball around with your cousins, or go to a hockey game with your siblings?
On my Christmas break, I went to a Seattle Kraken hockey game with my brother, and it got me thinking about how most of us are sports fans because of our communities.
My dad grew up playing after-school baseball with his brothers, so he made my brother and me play backyard “wiffle ball” whenever we had enough friends over to have two teams.
When the Winter Olympics were held in Vancouver in 2010, my Canadian grandparents created their own “opening ceremony” for us in our house, complete with an Olympic torch! In middle school, I became a Seattle Seahawks fan when the entire state of Washington cheered them into Super Bowl
XLVIII and our friends invited us to their house to watch the playoff games.
In high school, I got sucked into being a hockey fan when I became friends with a girl who had season tickets to the local hockey team and told me her stories about attending games and meeting players, some of whom even knew her by name.
More recently, I became a fulltime figure skating fan when I found an online community that kept me updated on how my favorite skaters were doing in annual competitions that weren’t the Olympics. I went to the World Figure Skating Championships last year and got to meet some of my favorite skaters, and their kindness ensured I’d be their fan forever.
It’s fun to watch sports events by yourself, but it’s even more fun to watch them when you’re among a crowd of fans—or even if you have a friendly rivalry with your roommate who’s cheering for the opposite team. As a Seahawks fan attending college
on the opposite side of the country, I always say “hi” to strangers if I see them wearing Seahawks merchandise, and it makes home feel less far away.
Southern’s intramurals also allow you to participate in sports with teams of your friends. If you know someone who doesn’t care that much about sports, invite them to watch a game with you. Your enthusiasm could be contagious!
This week, call your grandparents, your parents, that one friend from middle school who always updated you on the NBA standings, and thank them for igniting your love of sports.
Editor’s Note: I’m Amy Van Arsdell, the new sports column editor for this semester, and I’m excited to expand the scope of the column to showcase the diversity within sports. If you want to share your passion for sports with even more people, you can contribute an article to this column! Contact me at amyv@southern.
Intramural Schedule
Wednesday
6:00 p.m .
- Shooting Ducks vs BITTIE BALL (Ladies B)
- Big Back Club vs flight crew (Mens B)
- Tugg Speedman vs Ball Stars (Mens B)
7:00 p.m.
- Basket Robins vs Predators (Ladies A)
- bench warmers vs Backcourt Babes (Ladies A)
- Kicks and Dribbles vs Southern Breeze (Ladies B)
8:00 p.m.
- Bricklayers vs Cherry Pickers (Ladies B)
- ProAct vs The Beatitudes Ballers (Mens B)
- Air Force 1’$ vs Greased Lightnin’ (Mens A)
9:00 p.m.
- High Hoops vs Dunkin Donuts (Mens A)
- Andrew Park 2023 vs Luke Kornet Elite (Mens A)
- Chill Hoops vs Druski Elite (Mens A)
Thursday
6:00 p.m.
- Baka vs we love booming (Mens B)
- San Francisco 49ers vs Below Average Joes (Mens B)
- Kawhi Five-0 vs Tennessiballers (Mens B)
7:00 p.m.
- Bomb squad vs Chill Guys (Mens B)
- socal wasians vs NBA youngboys (Mens B)
- indos in paris vs hoogins (Mens B)
8:00 p.m.
- Yacht Club vs The Goon Squad (Mens A)
- Greased Lightnin’ vs Old School (Mens A)
- we ball vs court queens (Ladies B)
9:00 p.m.
- Dunkin Donuts vs Night Night (Mens A)
Rylan Spencer Contributor
Amy Van Arsdell, age eight, learns to ice skate with her mom. (Photo courtesy of source)
OPINION
Don’t be fooled by anti-aging trends
Allison Grundy Opinion Editor
All over social media platforms, many influencers, celebrities and even everyday users regularly post edited photos and videos that present an idealized version of themselves with smooth skin, no wrinkles and a seemingly effortless youthful beauty. These impossible standards can lead to increased anxiety about appearance since people’s bodies change as they age.
For decades, anti-aging products with promises of turning back time have circulated in society. As the population continues to grow and age, demand for these products increases. However, with the rise of trends and conversations around aging, it seems more than ever that people are looking to surgeries, expensive skincare and even fraudulent products in order to combat natural changes that occur in the body.
In a 2024 study, health expert Matej Mikulic distinguishes between anti-aging and longevity. The first is focused on minimizing some of the effects of aging, and the latter is focused on extending one’s life.
According to Dominique Petruzzi, an expert researcher in the health and hygiene industry, “There is so much emphasis on a youthful appearance, and the cosmetic industry is taking full advantage of this persona.”
The United States is an important market for this industry, with anti-aging products making up a large part of its $49 billion of revenue in 2023. Petruzzi writes, “The market’s size is projected to reach nearly 80 billion U.S. dollars by 2032.”
In addition, more people are getting cosmetic surgeries. Lip augmentation and buccal fat removal are among a list of procedures that have gained popularity as a result of social media trends and influencers. While some plastic surgeries may be necessary for cosmetic changes after an accident or to solve functional problems in the body, many offer the sole benefit of an attempt to enhance one’s looks.
While some anti-aging products may improve skin health
and reduce some signs of aging, the truth is that nothing can stop the aging process. Many anti-aging products and services are overly expensive and temporary. Products that make unrealistic promises seem to be scams, targeted to those who feel pressure to look younger.
Consumers should focus on their physical health and come to terms with the passage of time, making peace with the abilities and talents given to them by God, not the value
society has assigned them based on their physical being.
In fact, the Bible warns against vanity. Ecclesiastes 1:14 states, “I have seen everything that is done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and striving after wind.” God doesn’t call His followers to vanity, but rather, to treat the body as a temple, working on temperance and health, rather than alternating one’s natural appearance. Ways to stay physically healthy include practicing temperance, eating healthy foods,
avoiding drugs and alcohol and finding peace in God. Worrying about aging and purchasing expensive products with little impact takes precious time away from the things that matter so much more than vanity. Instead, have peace knowing that to be older is to be wiser, and to age is a blessing from God.
Editor’s Note: The Opinion Section encourages multiple perspectives, so please feel free to send a response or other opinions for future articles to allisongrundy@southern.edu.
RELIGION
New Year, always the same Jesus
Nina Bueno Religion Editor
We are nearing the end of the first month of 2025. Already, the year is flying by, and we wonder how we are going to keep up with assignments, work and life in general. And as is typical when we begin a new year, I’m sure many of us made resolutions.
Perhaps resolutions to eat better, work out consistently, or spend more time with Jesus.
Following the mantra of “New Year, New Me,” we will do whatever we can to become a better — perhaps even the best — version of ourselves. Yet, these resolutions often come to an end when the demands of everyday life pile up, and we realize that try as we might, we can’t actually carry them out. Over the break, my devotions called me to meditate upon the sacrifice of Christ. It’s a hard thing to do. Many of us have grown up hearing about it over and over, and it has become commonplace.
Yet, on the other hand, it is unfathomable that a God out there somehow loved us enough to send His own Son to die for us. But as I beheld Jesus’ sacrifice and His love, I realized that we are sinners in need of Christ, and no resolve of our own can fix that.
We make so many resolutions that we will do and be better, changing this and that in our lives. But the mantra is wrong. It may be a New Year, but nothing I can do will make a new me. Instead, it is a New Year but a still-sinful, still-proud, still do-itmyself me. However, while our resolutions cannot do much, Jesus’ resolution makes all the difference in the world.
Many verses in the Bible show the resolve Jesus had in coming
to die for and save us, and we should remember that He didn’t have to! It was even harder for Him because of the horrible separation from the Father that He endured. But when predicting His death to His disciples, Jesus said, “Now my soul is troubled and what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. Father, glorify your name!” (John 12:27-28).
Jesus stayed strong in His resolution and submitted to His Father’s will. Later, we read Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done” (Matt. 26:42).
This resolve of Christ resulted in a sacrifice, in redemption for all people. As the years pass and people continue seeking true change, we can see a beautiful truth in be-
holding this sacrifice. Throughout every New Year, “Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday and today and forever” (Heb. 13:8, NIV).
And His resolution remains the same, which is to “draw all people to myself” (John 12:32).
Jesus’ resolution truly does make a difference — the difference between us living in sin forever or becoming new, changed individuals. Let us allow Jesus to draw us to Himself, for we will
become our best selves when we become renewed in Him.
Editor’s note: I’m Nina Bueno, the new religion editor for the Accent! By God’s grace, I look forward to producing some uplifting material for you this semester and would love for you to contribute as well! If you are interested in writing an article for the religion column, feel free to contact me at ninab@southern.edu.
While some anti-aging products may improve skin health and reduce some signs of aging, the truth is that nothing can stop the aging process. (Photo sourced from Pexels)
Learning to become my own best friend
Emily White Lifestyle Editor
“Love yourself first, because that’s who you’ll be spending the rest of your life with.” I’ve heard this adage plenty of times, but I didn’t start to take it seriously — until recently. I’ve had to live with myself for 22 years, and I can’t say that I’ve been the kindest to myself.
I’m normally the first person to crack a joke at my expense, to put myself down and to deny my accomplishments. Why?
Maybe because if I beat everyone to the punch, then I won’t feel as bad when people inevitably call out my weaknesses.
However, the main weakness that my friends have brought to my attention within the past couple of years is my exact methodology to avoid criticism: talking negatively about myself. Through their gentle comments and observations, I have come to realize that I am my worst enemy; I am the only one holding myself back.
If I had a friend who treated me the way I treat myself, I would have left that friendship long ago. Yet here I am, still bullying myself without consequence. I cannot go on hating the girl in the mirror, hating the girl who lives in my head, hating the girl that I am.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how much my negativity has been a detriment to me. Therefore, I have taken it upon myself to rework my mindset to be a more positive, kind one. Here are some things I’m trying.
Replacing “can’t” with
“can’t… yet.”
So often I sell myself short and stop myself from trying new things because I “can’t.” I “can’t” play cello professionally; I “can’t” find a job in my major field of study; I “can’t” mountain bike. Just because I cannot do something at this very moment does not mean that I cannot accomplish it later. I may not be able to play cello in an orchestra at this moment, but if I keep practicing and taking lessons, I may one day be able to perform in a college or community orchestra. I may not be able to mountain bike well, but I can make it up and down a moderate hill without too much difficulty, and if I keep going out on the trails, I will develop the strength to go up and down two moderate hills!
Thinking about myself in the third person.
When I catch myself thinking negative thoughts about myself, I take a step back and try to see myself from my friends’ points of view. For example, my upcoming senior recital is a source of much trepidation for me, and I’m worried that I will somehow fail in my performance.
To try to combat this, I view myself from an outsider’s perspective. “She’s worried about her recital, but she’s put in a lot of work. She’s well prepared and has a lot of support from her friends and professors.”
Giving myself grace.
I hold myself to an unnecessarily high standard and beat myself up when I fail to meet it. However, when my friends tell me that they weren’t able to live up to their standards, do I shame them? Of course not! I sympathize with them and give them grace, which is what I should do for myself, too. Did I get a lower grade than I wanted on that assignment? That’s okay; I can see what to improve for the next assignment. Did I sleep in for
an extra hour? That’s okay; I probably needed to get more sleep anyway. Are these remedies hard for me to implement? Yes. Is fixing my mindset going to take a lot of intentional work? Yes. However, I know there will be a great benefit to being able to look at myself one day and see one of my biggest supporters, not one of my biggest critics. Maybe, like me, you’re too hard on yourself. In that case, I encourage you to try adopting a more positive view
this semester! It’s never too late to start a lifelong friendship with yourself.
Editor’s note: Maybe one of your “can’ts” is that you can’t write for the Accent. You can’t YET, because you haven’t reached out to me about it! Email me at wausten@southern. edu if you are interested in contributing to the Lifestyle column :)
SOCIAL
It’s never too late to start a lifelong friendship with yourself. (Photo sourced from Pexels)
gabriella.grundy four months ‘til forever
Photo Credit: Elias Zabala
kristensobrepena RN
Photo Credit: Durrell Hess
Gabriella Grundy G
hannahpiroski i went way too hard
Photo Credit: Hannah Piroski
raq.uel_laz actually, life is beautiful and I do have time Photo Credit: Raquel Lazcano
bathsibaa 22? They call me unc
Photo Credit: Keren Quijano
For a chance to be featured, use or tag @sauaccent on Instagram in your posts!
victoriaabalabarca There she goes again, I guess. Photo Credit: Victoria Balabarca
Kristen Sobrepena K
Hannah Piroski H
Danielle Taylor D
Victoria Balabarca V
Raquel Lazcano R
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