Vol. 79 Issue 11

Collegedale News | 4

Opinion | 6

Religion | 6

Lifestyle | 7

Former mayor reflects on life with late husband

No room in the inn: Making space for Jesus this Christmas

Don't feel like celebrating this season? You're not alone

Practical picnic pointers for a warmer time

December 6, 2023 Collegedale, Tennessee

Southern Accent

Vol. 79 Issue 11

The student voice since 1926

Accessibility on campus: Students alarmed by A new student’s experience handbook statement and administrative solutions addressing off-campus fighting and dancing Htet Myint Reporter

Heidi Burke prepares to enter Brock Hall's elevator after hearing that it is operational. At the beginning of the semester, the elevator was out of service. (Photo courtesy of Stephen Ruf)

Amy Mejias Reporter Heidi Burke, a freshman history-secondary education and journalism major who began attending Southern Adventist University this fall, navigates campus using a wheelchair.

Accessing buildings on campus isn’t always easy, and the university’s architecture doesn’t

feel wheelchair-friendly, Burke told the Accent.

According to Dennis Negrón, vice president for Student Development, his department has begun working on a plan to improve accessibility on campus.

He added that Southern’s overall growth has been accompanied by an increase in the number of disabled students.

“Southern is growing, and it has also become an attractive educational opportunity for students with physical disabilities,” Negrón said.

Southern’s campus includes hills and hundreds of stairs.

Some buildings lack elevators and ramps, and, according to See ACCESSIBILITY on page 2

Southern Adventist University made additions to its student handbook this school year, threatening possible disciplinary action for fighting and dancing off campus. The handbook section titled, “Do the Standards Apply Off Campus?”, now states: “Off-campus behaviors such as imbibing in alcoholic beverages, using drugs, selling or manufacturing illicit substances, dancing, or fighting (in organized sporting events or otherwise) may result in sanctions for the involved students.”

This clause was not included in previous handbooks.

The student handbook undergoes a review annually, according to Dennis Negrón, vice president for Student Development.

“A couple reviews ago the introduction was added, and what we unintentionally omitted was the statement about what sorts of activities are inconsistent with Southern’s values: dancing, gambling, etc.,” he wrote in an email to the Accent. “However, the statement on organized fighting was included as a result of the last two years’ events that occurred off campus.”

Sophomore business-administration major Cole Gentry and senior marketing major Jake D’Avanzo, the past organizers of Fight Night, a controversial off-campus boxing event that took place in 2022 and earlier this year, said they are aware of the handbook’s new statement.

Both said “fighting (in organized sporting events or otherwise)” was included in the new statement solely due to Fight Night

based on their interactions with Negrón last semester.

“We were called in [to the Student Development office] multiple times to talk about it and what consequences we would face for hosting the previous Fight Night,” D’Avanzo said, “but Cole kept mentioning how there was a gap between the handbook and what they were trying to sanction us for.

Because of that, Negrón did tell me this would be in the handbook in the future.”

“We were called in [to the Student Development office] multiple times to talk about it and what consequences we would face for hosting the previous Fight Night."

While discussing pushback they have received regarding Fight Night from what they consider conservative Seventh-day Adventist churches and Southern’s Student Development office, Gentry said: “We were told by Negrón that they would put something into the rules that would stop us from doing [Fight Night].”

When asked what types of consequences Negrón told them they might face for organizing the boxing event last school year, Gentry said no specific sanctions were discussed.

Gentry said he has been considering the idea of expanding Fight Night to other local colSee HANDBOOK on page 2

New software to reshape Roundabout removed, university intramurals program plans to beautify Hickman Drive Alissa Flores Staff Writer

The School of Health and Kinesiology is in the process of introducing a new management system that will transform how its intramurals program and other operations are run, according to Troy Walker and Darren Bissel, two faculty members in the department. The new software could be operational by the time basketball intramurals begin in the winter semester.

Southern Adventist University’s intramurals program is currently run using IMLeagues, an online program utilized by many schools to help students register for intramurals and monitor their status as a team and as individuals, according to IMLeagues’ website.

According to a previous Accent article, Southern’s intramurals program has seen significant growth in participation over the last year.

Bissel, facilities manager for the School of Health and Kinesiology, said the new system will organize the program more efficiently. It also will help with student worker schedules and payments, as well as community-centered activities like swimming, checking in and items purchases.

Bissel said the new system, DSE, which stands for DoSportsEasy, will completely replace the current system , which consists of

multiple different programs like Google and a check-in system IT set up, in addition to IMLeagues. “[IMLeagues] has been working great. We just wanted something that would involve everything all in one platform,” said Bissell.

Walker, director of intramurals, said last summer the department started discussing a system change. He was curious about what other schools were using for intramurals. According to Walker, many universities use IMLeagues, including one of Southern’s closest university neighbors, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. However, he added that IMLeagues has had issues with lagging and multiple ads that make the platform unfavorable.

“The students have to deal with the ads or pay five bucks to get rid of the ads,” he said.

“There are other schools, a lot of the bigger ones, that use a piece of software that runs their whole wellness center and intramurals at the same time.

And it's really cool what I saw other schools doing. So, I was like, ‘Why not us?’”

Walker said although he believes it will have the largest effect on intramurals, the new system will also interact with the department’s student workers database, which includes checking in at the wellness center, See INTRAMURALS on page 3

Celeste Lee Staff Writer The roundabout on Hickman Drive in front of Brock Hall was recently destroyed in preparation for the construction of Southern Adventist University’s new business building, according to Marty Hamilton, senior vice president for Financial Administration.

Hamilton listed two main reasons for disassembling the roundabout and tree island in its center. The first is the univer-

sity’s goal to visually improve the area surrounding the future School of Business building.

Hamilton called the future school “a signature building.”

With the School of Business currently accommodating Southern’s second-largest major, the university wants to recognize its importance on campus by improving the road adjacent to its future home. Hamilton added that for drivers entering campus near the new building, Hickman Drive will be the first road they see in front of it.

“I want to beautify this road and take the opportunity while we're doing all this construction now,” Hamilton said. “ … I decided we’ve had trucks damage this roundabout, so what I'd like to do is widen the whole road and put trees in the middle.”

This addition would elongate the tree line already on Hickman Drive beginning where it meets University Drive.

Southern is planning to make Hickman Drive a two-lane road See ROUNDABOUT on page 3

The university removes a roundabout in Hickman Drive, composed of a tree island surrounded by railroad ties. The removal was part of a plan to beautify the road and prepare for construction of the future School of Business building. Wednesday, November 1, 2023. (Photo by Andrew Boggess)

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

2 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

NEWS HANDBOOK

continued from page 1 lege campuses but is awaiting clarification on what the new handbook sanctions could entail, he said.

Negrón stated that he does not oversee handbook sanctions.

“I don’t issue sanctions as VP,” he wrote. “That is a responsibility of Code of Conduct.”

The student handbook states that violations of Southern’s Code of Conduct are handled by the dean of students and Student Conduct Board. The dean of students is Lisa Hall, according to Southern’s website. Specific sanctions for alcohol and drug use are listed in the handbook, but specific sanctions for fighting and dancing are not included. The word “dancing,” including its variations, appears once in the current handbook, in the new statement.

When asked about the future of Fight Night, Gentry said he might seek sponsors to make Fight Night a free event and is considering trying to incorporate it as an official Southern activity despite the new language in the handbook.

“I’m thinking about running for SA president and making Fight Night an actual event,” he said.

D’Avanzo, a senior who will be graduating in December, said he is passing the baton to Gentry.

"For Cole, it's up to him," D'Avanzo said, "but I’ll be watching as I’m graduating.”

David Oh, senior computer science major, expressed surprise and concern when learning about the handbook change in an interview with the Accent.

Oh founded @saudancers, an Instagram account he uses to post videos of him and his friends dancing.

When asked what inspired him to start the account, he

said, “I wanted to start a club, but it’s forbidden. So I started this account because there’s a lot of people who want to dance, but they are too scared to. It’s one of the best ways to express human emotion, so it’s a really good outlet.”

He questioned the fairness of the new statement in the handbook, particularly its grouping of dancing with more serious offenses like drugs and violence. Oh emphasized his belief in the cultural and personal importance of dancing as a form of self-expression and community building.

“I know we chose to come [to Southern], but I feel like dancing isn’t anything dangerous.

There are other forms [of dancing] that aren’t provocative, and it allows me to express myself,” Oh said. “It’s a really good way to connect with people and the community. I’m big on community and creating an atmosphere

where you can have fun; we’re not harming anyone.”

“The confusion about cultural dancing that is behind the question on Irish Christmas is that cultural dancing has not been banned; it has been paused for a year during culture nights.”

Isaiah Lawrence, junior theology major, echoed Oh’s sentiments, finding the dancing aspect of the new clause particularly disappointing, especially considering the positive cultural aspects associated with dance.

Lawrence said the handbook’s new addition of dancing as a punishable off-campus behav-

ior does not align with the university hosting a recent Irish Christmas event featuring tap dancing.

“It’s a little bit jarring. In a past Accent article, [Negrón] mentioned how this is a break from dancing and not a ban,” Lawrence said, referring to a new rule Negrón implemented this school year that disallows dancing at cultural nights, “but now it feels as though there is not any hope of dancing coming back to Southern.”

When asked to respond to students’ complaints surrounding the Irish Christmas event in light of recent cultural dancing discussions on campus, Negrón wrote, “The confusion about cultural dancing that is behind the question on Irish Christmas is that cultural dancing has not been banned; it has been paused for a year during culture nights.”

Editor-in-chief Amanda Blake contributed to this article.

Student Handbook Page 5 2023-24

2022-23

ACCESSIBILITY continued from page 1

Southern’s website, many were constructed in the 1940s, 50s and 60s. The university moved to its current location in 1916, and Lynn Wood Hall will celebrate its 100th birthday next year, according to details on the website.

However, the accessibility problem isn’t limited to the older buildings on campus, according to Burke. She said the three-yearold Bietz Center has only one accessible door with a button, and that door is on the second floor at the back of the building.

The ongoing McKee Library renovations are also lacking accessibility, according to Burke. She said the new library entrance will include ramps, but it seems they are not easy to get to based on blueprints she’s looked at. As a history major, the library is a building she needs to access often, Burke added.

Marty Hamilton, associate vice president for Financial Administration, elaborated on the university’s renovation plans for the library. He said although he had hoped there would be access to the library from the promenade for those with a physical disability, there was “no physical way they could add a ramp from the

promenade.” Hamilton did clarify, however, that renovations include two accessible ramps, one leading to the library from the Bietz Center and the other from Lynn Wood Hall. He added that the updated library will also include accessible doors.

Burke said she has been very proactive in sharing her feedback on Southern’s accessibility issues with administration.

“As far as I can tell, if I had not done the investigating myself, no one would have noticed the problem,” Burke said. “It concerns me that no one in positions of power investigates accessibility issues. Instead, everything is

reactive. If the [advocating] I did a week ago had been done by someone a year ago, I doubt any of this would have happened.”

Negrón said the Student Development committee has been meeting recently to begin work on a five-year strategic plan to make Southern’s campus fully accessible to students and employees who are permanently or temporarily disabled.

“What we've done is identify the problems,” Negrón said. “And … we've created some benchmarks of where we'd like to be.

And then what we've also done is listen to stories of students who have a physical disability.”

The committee’s focus has been placed on external accessibility, accessible parking, entrances, interior access, making bathrooms easier to access, accessible stalls and sturdy handrails, as well as signage including braille, overhead and easy-to-read signs.

Although Burke may not see the results of her advocacy and the five-year accessibility plan completed before she graduates, she said, “If I leave and another person who comes with a wheelchair next … will have a better time, I will have to say it all will have been worth it.”

See ACCESSIBILITY on page 3

Student visitation spikes at University Health Center Tenci Reid Staff Writer

"More students are coming in sooner to address health concerns, and we are thankful we have the opportunity to start treatments in a more timely fashion. Students are no longer delaying their visits due to concern for cost," said Mix. Alexia Grosjean, a junior psychology major, said last semester she didn’t make an appointment with the UHC due to the visitation fees. She described feeling discouraged to visit the health center even when the nurses urged her to do so.

"Before, I was a little more skeptical to go because each visit was $40, and it seemed kind of steep for me," said Grosjean.

When asked whether she goes more often now due to the payment change, Grosjean said she is more inclined to make an appointment, "I don't think that much when I go; I just go whenever I need to."

Due to increased student visitation, UHC staff had to adjust to accommodate the influx.

"Fortunately, all UHC employees have experience working in high-volume patient care settings and can quickly and effectively handle this increase in demand for services,” Mix said. “We have maintained two full-time nurse practitioners, allowing us to see upwards of 30-40 visits a day."

To accommodate high enrollment, the university began offer-

Lifestyle Editor Allison Grundy

Social Media Manager Lia Colon

Editor-in-Chief Amanda Blake

Opinion Editor Alexis Dewey

Managing Editor Matthew Orquia

Religion Editor Madison Wilcox

For any questions, comments and article submission information, email the editor at ablake@southern.edu

News Editor Lesieli Savelio

Sports Editor Jacob Nevis

Reporters Emma Boughman Amy Mejias Htet Myint Marian Polanco Emma Rodriguez

For all advertising inquiries, email studentadmgr@southern.edu.

Photo Editor Adam De Lisser

Web Manager Meg Ermer

The University Health Center (UHC) has experienced a major rise in visits since changing its payment procedure at the beginning of this school year.

An email was sent to students

by Vice President for Student Development Dennis Negrón, alerting students of the change.

"Effective this fall semester, students will no longer have to pay for office visits, minor procedure care, flu shots, limited over-the-counter medications, and wound dressings when using the University Health Center," the email stated.

Instead of paying a fee for each UHC visit, students now pay a general fee of $150 per semester.

In an interview with the Accent, Steven Miller, associate vice president for Financial Administration, said more students are accessing the UHC this school year compared to

previous years, the only exception being the semester when COVID-19 was at an all-time high on campus. “[In] October, we had 1,028 visits through there; that's 915 students and 113 employees. If you look at last year's October, we're at 544 visits,” said Miller.

When asked what measures have been taken to ensure continued accessibility for students, especially those who may have financial challenges in seeking healthcare, Miller said, “If a student goes over there for anything ordinary, there is no charge to them. It's all covered by that general fee. If you're having a procedure done, we do charge for that.”

Miller gave an example: If a student requires stitches or a thorn removed, charges apply.

The associated costs are billed to the student's insurance.

Michelle Mix, a nurse practitioner at the UHC, also noted a significant increase in student visits.

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.

ing shuttle services to decrease the number of cars parked around campus. The shuttle will stop at the UHC if requested.

"The shuttle is available for students needing assistance getting to the UHC," said Mix, adding that students unable to ride the shuttle can call the UHC directly for assistance.

The University Health Center has seen an uptick in visits since its recent payment system change. Friday, September 28, 2023.

(Photo by Adam De Lisser)

Layout Designers Anton Kannenberg Conner Bartsch

Copy Editors Stefanie Green Kathy Zelidon Photographers Mila Bales Ron Cabacungan Andre Ottati Preston Waters Staff Sponsor Alva James-Johnson Circulation Manager Norelie Cabrera

3 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

For more related news, visit our website at southern-accent.org

NEWS But I think it'll help us be that they plan on sending word ROUNDABOUT INTRAMURALS tem. more efficient at our job here. It'll out through Instagram and fly-

continued from page 1

scheduling fitness classes, checking out equipment and more.

In addition, Bissel stated that DSE will affect how community members sign up for swim lessons and gym kits. Individuals will be able to make payments online with the new system.

“All those things combined with intramurals will really streamline things nicely,” said Walker.

When asked if there are any negative effects of the new system, Bissel stated, “A trade-off is we have to pay some money for it. It's kind of an expensive sys-

A student uses the IMLeagues app on their smartphone. (Illustration

by Ron Cabacungan)

ACCESSIBILITY continued from page 2

Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Southern is required to make its programs accessible for students with disabilities, according to Mariella Pechero, disability services administrator for the university’s Disability Support Services.

“Section 504 mandates that qualified individuals with disabilities not be excluded from participating in a recipient’s program because its facilities are inaccessible to, or unusable by, persons with physical disabilities,” she wrote in an email to the Accent.

However, Pechero wrote that Southern is exempt from The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) due to its status as a private Christian institution.

help us with our scheduling and our student workers as well. It's got a scheduling platform where you can text all the workers, and it's kind of a built-in system.”

He said the department has been readying the system for the past few weeks.

“Our IT should get students all uploaded and staffed,” he said.

“It's going to be a little bit more challenging for our community members. There are around 360.

We've got to manually put them in, so that's going to take some time. But other than that, things have been going pretty smoothly.”

According to Bissell, the department may be able to set up some of the system’s modules before Christmas break.

Walker said this timeframe would give him the opportunity to study the program over the last couple weeks of the semester in hopes of understanding it and getting it to run smoothly before it is introduced to the students.

When asked about how this system will be introduced to students on campus, Walker said

Although many universities fall under ADA, which was designed in part to ensure that physically and mentally disabled individuals be provided equal access and opportunities, many religious institutions are exempt from certain ADA provisions under the First Amendment.

The ADA National Network website states: “Religious entities are completely exempt from Title III of the ADA. All of their facilities, programs, and activities, whether they are religious or secular in nature, are exempt.”

“If a religious entity controls a school that is open to both members and non-members of the religious entity, the school is still considered a religious entity and is exempt from Title III,” the website continues.

ers around campus. Although, he clarified that the most effective way they will spread the word is by a mass email utilizing IMLeagues' database of students who have participated in intramurals in the past.

Walker hopes he’ll have the system ready for basketball season in the winter, but he’s not sure that will be the case. “[Last season, there were] around 52 basketball teams,” he said. “If I have that many again, and I'm learning a new program at the last second, that makes me nervous. I don't like to roll that way. Change is good, usually, but change can be hard, not only for the students but for me too.”

Walker explained that although DSE is exciting, challenges come with it.

“We have to learn the program first,” he said. “So, it might be a little bit of a learning curve, and there might be some growing pains. But in the long run, we feel like it'll be worth it.”

Heidi Burke crosses the promenade. Monday, November 27, 2023.

(Photo by Adam De Lisser)

continued from page 1

with a median barrier with trees.

Hamilton added that the university will probably add some necessary signage and regulations.

“There will be either a stop sign or yield to turn onto Hickman Drive coming from the Wood Hall parking lot,” Hamilton said.

As for what kind of trees he plans to plant in the median, Hamilton said, “Maybe some kind of cherry tree where it blooms beautifully in the spring but then it's green most of the year.”

Hamilton explained that the new road and tree-lined median will discourage trucks from coming onto Hickman Drive. When the trees have branches that hang over the road, big trucks and trailers get discouraged from using the road. They don't want their vehicle to get stuck or damaged.

“Most of the Apison Pike traffic is going to be away from campus, so I'm not anticipating having a lot of truck traffic coming through Hickman Drive anymore,” Hamilton added.

The second reason Hamilton cited for the road change is to allow larger vehicles easier access to campus during the business building’s construction.

The school doesn’t want all of the truck traffic for the new business building on University Drive, so delivery trucks and heavy equipment will be diverted to Wood Hall via Hickman Drive and

then come onsite through the parking lot.

In the past, big trucks or trailers trying to navigate through the roundabout have often hit and damaged it. According to Hamilton, Southern first installed the roundabout and its center tree island years ago using railroad ties to prevent truck traffic from cutting through Hickman Drive.

Instead, traffic was supposed to access campus using Park Lane or University Drive. Still, truck traffic came through the roundabout, and year after year, damage continued. It became a pain to fix, according to Hamilton.

Now that Southern is starting to build the new business building, there will be more trucks coming in, and removing the roundabout prevents the area from getting damaged.

In addition to preventing damage to and beautifying the road by the new business building, Hamilton added that the university plans to improve access for pedestrians in the area.

He said he has noticed that students going to the Village Market (VM) from Brock Hall will usually walk through parking lots because there is no quick path between the buildings .

To improve safe and quick passage to the VM, Hamilton is planning to put a sidewalk, or what he called a “small promenade,” connecting the new business building to the main promenade and other sidewalks between the business building and Brock Hall.

Hickman Drive's roundabout is gone. The university plans to add a treelined median to the road to improve the area around its future School of Business building. Friday, December 1, 2023. (Photo by Mila Bales)

COLLEGEDALE NEWS Former Collegedale mayor reflects on life with late husband Edward Lamb Hannah Johnson Staff Writer When former mayor Katie Lamb decided to run for a Collegedale commission seat in 2009, her biggest supporter was her husband, Edward “Ed” Lamb.

"He was my rock and was very thoughtful,” said Lamb, who won the election, which in turn led to her becoming the city’s first female mayor in 2014. “We had 62 years together, and it was a great time.”

Lamb made the comments during a Nov. 27 interview while reflecting on the recent passing of her late husband, who died July 25 at age 86. She said his death was unexpected despite some health challenges affecting his memory.

At times, the grieving widow was tearful as she recounted their years together and the life they built in Collegedale both as leaders at Southern Adventist University and in the community.

“We had a good life,” said Lamb, a Texas native who moved with her husband to Collegedale in 1972 so he could work as a social work professor in Southern’s Behavioral Sciences program. “And on the day that he died, the last thing he said to me was how much he loved me and what I meant to him.”

Sixty-three years prior, Ed and Katie met at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, for the first time.

As a nursing student, Katie was about to head to Denver, Colorado, for a clinical.

“I was with a friend, and we went across the street from campus to get a bite of breakfast before I left for Denver,” Lamb recalled in the interview with the Southern Accent. “Ed was there, and he was with some other fellows that I knew down in Texas, and Ed wanted to know who I was. He said I looked at him and smiled, and he

decided that he was going to date me when I got back on campus.”

Ed Lamb, a native of Los Angeles, California, stayed true to his word, Lamb said. The couple went on their first date on the first Saturday night of the school year in September of 1960.

When Katie graduated in June, Ed needed one more semester to finish his social work degree.

The couple married in August of that year. And while Ed worked to attain his degree, Katie worked in a physician’s clinic near campus.

Ed graduated in December and became an attendant at the state hospital. Soon after, the Lambs moved to Denver, where Katie worked at the AdventHealth Porter hospital, and Ed began working as a social worker for the county welfare department.

When Ed was drafted by the United States Army in the fall of 1963, the couple moved to Fort Detrick, Maryland. He joined Operation Whitecoat, described as a top-secret operation involving Seventh-day Adventist conscientious objectors who volunteered to test vaccines against biological weapons by a PBS short documentary featuring Ed. After his service concluded, Ed obtained a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee School of Social Work in Nashville.

The couple then moved back to Denver, where Ed developed the social work department at AdventHealth Porter; and then in 1972, with two small children in tow, the couple returned to Tennessee.

"It was very different moving here from Colorado because we lived in a big town in Denver,” Lamb said. “We came here, and I thought we had moved to a jungle because there was so much more greenery and trees.”

Ed Lamb began teaching in the Behavioral Sciences program

at Southern Missionary College, now Southern Adventist University, and eventually became dean of the School of Social Work. He helped develop and expand the program’s curriculum, allowing him to teach a variety of classes and influence many students, according to his wife.

"Ed was a real people person,” Lamb said. “He enjoyed hearing what students wanted to do with their lives and enjoyed being their advisor and so forth.

He wanted to make sure the students got a good sense of who they were and how they could reach their goals.”

An email sent to Southern faculty on behalf of the President’s Office after Ed Lamb’s passing stated: “Throughout his distinguished career, Ed's passion for education and service led to remarkable accomplishments. He played a pivotal role in expanding the curriculum, elevating the importance of social work, and nurturing the birth of the first Christian social work program in the region. His dedication resonated with his students, colleagues, and the community, leaving an indelible mark on the field and on the lives he touched.”

The email continued to describe how Ed Lamb’s passion for travel led him to begin the New York City

sociology study tour in 1976, a trip Southern students continue to take each year. He believed immersing students in the diverse city would encourage them to not only learn more about different viewpoints and cultures but appreciate them as well, according to the email.

“Over the years, students who had the privilege of traveling with Ed developed a deep appreciation and insight into cultures distinct from their own,” the email stated. “As we mark the 48th year of the NYC sociology study tour this year, we are reminded that Ed’s legacy lives on through generations of students whose lives were forever transformed by his teachings, travel insights and his profound empathy.”

After one semester of Ed Lamb working for the university, Lamb joined him. And for 33 years, she worked at Southern, serving in various capacities, including as a nursing professor, dean of the School of Nursing, associate vice president for academics and dean of graduate studies.

After retiring, Lamb decided to seek public office as a way to serve the community that she and Ed had grown to love over the years.

“I enjoyed living in Collegedale, and it’s a great place to raise a family,” the mother and grand-

Katie Lamb (Photo courtesy of source)

Edward Lamb (Photo courtesy of source)

mother is quoted as saying in a 2021 Accent article. “And so I thought, ‘Well, if I can contribute in some way, that’s what I will do.’”

After serving as mayor for eight years, Lamb was replaced by Morty Lloyd in January but continues to serve as a commissioner. She said her husband also served the community, teaching a junior Sabbath School class at Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists for about 10 to 15 years, chairing the Collegedale Academy school board for many years and serving as a member of the American Legion and a church deacon.

But Ed Lamb had a pacemaker for about 25 years, and as time progressed, his heart became weaker and weaker, Lamb said.

Prior to his death, he fell and fractured the second vertebrae in his neck. He was placed in a rehab facility to regain his balance but his health continued to decline.

Lamb said she was at a meeting in Nashville when she received a call about her husband being in a lot of pain and going into the emergency room. She returned home that morning, and doctors informed her that his organs were shutting down. He was transferred to hospice soon after and died four hours later.

A memorial service was held Aug. 19 at Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists, drawing relatives, students, friends and colleagues. Lamb said she hopes the community remembers her husband for his kind, affirming qualities and how much he loved people.

"It's probably only been in the last two or three weeks that it has really dawned on me that I'm a widow,” Lamb said reflecting on her loss. “Being near the holidays, it has brought back many pleasant memories. He loved Christmas, and this will be my first Christmas without him in 62 years.”

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

4 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

NEWS

Campus Christmas Celebration

Students take photos in front of the recently lit Christmas tree in the middle of Taylor Circle. Tuesday, November 28, 2023. (Photo by Mila Bales)

Samantha Harvey tap dances during the Irish Christmas in America concert. The event took place in Iles P.E. Center after the Christmas Tree Lighting. Tuesday, November 28, 2023. (Photo by Mila Bales)

President Ken Shaw recognizes workers of Southern Adventist University during the holiday festivities for their work throughout the semester. Tuesday, November 28, 2023. (Photo by Adam De Lisser)

Andre Ottati and Sam Morales pose in front of the Christmas tree with hot drinks. Refreshments were offered after the tree was lit. November 28, 2023. (Photo by Preston Waters)

Caitríona Sherlock sings during the Irish Christmas in America concert. Tuesday, November 28, 2023. (Photo by Mila Bales)

Ken Parsons conducts the Southern Jazz Ensemble, which performed at the beginning of tree lighting ceremony. Tuesday, November 28, 2023. (Photo by Adam De Lisser)

5 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

For more related news, visit our website at accent-southern.org

MENTAL HEALTH

How to stay healthy for a truly rejuvenating break Khloe Mace Contributor Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.

During Christmas break, students have a chance to rest and recharge in the middle of the school year. Sometimes, students can get sick during the break because they push themselves too hard during the fall semester, and the stress takes a toll on their health. However, there are several ways to have a healthy Christmas break and take care of your well-being.

One important thing, as suggested by an article on Vanderbilt University’s website, is to wash your hands regularly. In college, students interact with many people throughout the day, and some may even live in close quarters like residence halls, which increases the risk of catching illnesses. Washing your hands frequently can help prevent the spread of germs and keep you healthier.

Getting enough sleep is also crucial. Many students suffer from sleep deprivation due to studying and staying up late, according to the same article.

Christmas break offers a great opportunity to catch up on sleep and feel more refreshed. Eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise are also beneficial for boosting your immune system and reducing the chances of getting sick, the article states.

Creating a routine during the break is a healthy habit, as recommended by University Urgent Care. College life can be

overwhelming, but maintaining a routine during the break can provide some stability and set you up for a successful semester. Listen to your body’s signals; if you feel tired, give yourself the rest you need, and consider taking some extra vitamins if you suspect you might be getting sick. The University Urgent Care

website states that it is essential to take a break and learn to say no when things become too much to handle.

According to an article on the University of South Florida website, spending time in nature can make our breaks healthier. Instead of always using social media, taking breaks outside and

enjoying the sunshine is much better for our minds. Being close to nature can even improve how well we do in school, the article states. If students make spending time outdoors a habit during their break, they can keep doing it when the semester starts again.

Christmas break is a valuable time to take care of your health

and well-being. Students should take advantage of this time to prepare for the rest of their school year. By following these simple tips, you can have a healthy and rejuvenating break, ensuring you come back to school feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of the year.

Spending time away from your phone and in nature during a school break is a great way to refresh your mind. (Photo sourced from Unsplash)

SPORTS

’Tis the season for sports: Upcoming showdowns Jacob Nevis Sports Editor It is finally December, a month when Christmas and winter make their grand entrances. The holiday season always brings some of the most exciting events in the professional sports world.

With winter break fast approaching, here are some events to look forward to in the next couple of weeks and months.

The NBA season got off to a fast start. The In-Season Tournament, an early Christmas pres-

ent for basketball fans, did the same, with eight teams already advancing to the quarter finals of the tournament. In the west, the first seed Los Angeles Lakers are taking on the fourth seed Phoenix Suns. The second seed Sacramento Kings will face the third seed New Orleans Pelicans.

On the east side of the bracket, the first seed Milwaukee Bucks will see the fourth seed New York Knicks in the quarter finals while the second seed Indiana Pacers will face the Boston Celtics. On Monday, the Pelicans de-

feated the Kings, and the Pacers beat the Celtics to both advance to the semifinals.

One of my favorite things in all of sports is getting to see snow during an NFL game. I believe that snow truly captures the magic that is in sports. Getting to see one’s team play in a winter wonderland makes the experience much more exciting.

This season, the NFL will hopefully feature a few snowy games — even better if they happen on Christmas. The NFL will host three games on Christ-

The Seattle Seahawks play the Green Bay Packers in the snow. (Photo sourced from Flickr)

mas, with the Las Vegas Raiders traveling to Arrowhead to take on the Kansas City Chiefs, the New York Giants visiting Philly to play the Eagles and, in the marquee matchup of Christmas, the Baltimore Ravens will face the San Francisco 49ers.

The Chiefs versus Raiders and Eagles versus Giants games will also have a chance of snow.

Alongside the world of professional sports, college football always gives fans an exciting winter season. This year, college football playoffs will feature the Michigan

Wolverines, the Washington Huskies, the Texas Longhorns and the Alabama Crimson Tide.

The first matchups will see fourth-ranked Alabama take on first-ranked Michigan in the Rose Bowl, and third-ranked Texas taking on second-ranked Washington in the Sugar bowl.

The Rose Bowl will be played on Jan. 1 at 5 p.m., and the Sugar Bowl will be played the same day at 8:45 p.m. The winners will then travel to NRG stadium in Houston, Texas, on Jan. 8 to play the National Championship.

6 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

OPINION No room in the inn: Making space for Jesus this Christmas Alexis Dewey Opinion Editor A few weeks ago, I received a very exciting text message. I had been waiting for this message for quite a while at that point, and I was starting to get worried it would never come.

Once I received the text, however, I grinned from ear to ear.

My mom texted me asking for my Christmas list.

I was excited to start typing the list up with my desired specifications. I attached links to ensure my mom knew exactly what I wanted, and I made sure to add sizes and colors with all the clothes I listed.

Then, I began to think about the real meaning of Christmas, the Christmas that Christians believe in, the biblical Christmas.

Last Tuesday, Southern Adventist University held its Christmas Tree Lighting in Taylor Circle. The annual event is something many students, faculty and community members look forward to each year.

I certainly enjoyed attending, and it’s been fun looking at the different Christmas decorations on campus.

As I look around our beautifully transformed campus, however, I only see a few decorations here and there that represent the biblical Christmas. Frankly, I do not believe anything is wrong with decorations that aren’t tied to Jesus’ birth. I love the big Christmas trees in front of Wright Hall and the Hulsey Wellness Center. I believe you can keep Christmas traditions that didn’t originate within Christian circles, such as putting up Christmas trees, decorating cookies, hanging stockings and waiting for San-

ta Claus, while still believing and participating in the biblical Christmas. There is nothing wrong with that, and it is something that has the potential to allow us to better connect with others during the holidays. I also appreciate and want to acknowledge the banners on Wright Hall that represent the nativity scene.

However, observing the diverse array of decorations on campus has led me to think more about what we as Christians do during the holiday sea-

son to witness to others. How much time do we spend discussing the importance of Jesus’ birth, His choice to become 100 percent human and its eternal effect on our lives and world?

Do we adorn ourselves with His character, His love, during the holidays? Or do we adorn ourselves completely in other characteristics that often make themselves known during the Christmas season, such as materialism and greed?

Jesus, to Christians, is our Savior Who died for us, and

Christmas is the time when we celebrate His birth, or at least we should. When I think back to past Christmases, I cannot think of many things I have done to celebrate Jesus’ birth, other than perhaps a program at my church. However, if our goal is to teach people about Christ and reflect His character, isn’t Christmas a great time to do so?

But what can we as Christians do to celebrate Christmas in a biblical sense? Are there better ways to acknowledge the truth behind the season?

Perhaps we could spend more time helping those in need, organize more nativity programs or simply spend more personal time with Jesus.

Showing people who our Savior is by directing our thoughts toward Him and demonstrating His character through our actions should be a continual practice we adhere to. However, Christmas is a wonderful time to reflect on your relationship with Christ and the ways you choose to share Him with others.

“If our goal is to teach people about Christ and reflect His character, isn’t Christmas a great time to do so?” (Photo sourced from Pexels)

RELIGION Don’t feel like celebrating this season? You’re not alone Emily White Contributor Have you ever felt like everyone around you was celebrating something, but you couldn’t make yourself genuinely join them no matter how hard you tried?

After my first year of college, I had an opportunity to work as the director of programs at an overnight summer camp in Washington, far from my home.

I had worked at my local day camp for years and was assured that my transition to this camp would be smooth; I was even told that my filling the position was an answer to prayer. I knew that my new job would not be easy, but I was excited for the challenge. However, over the course of the summer, I became burnt out. I felt depleted of every ounce of my energy. I knew it was going to be hard — I had prepared myself for that — but was it supposed to be this hard?

I wearily crawled to the end of the summer season and then was immediately thrown into my second year of college with no time to process the stress I had been through. My friends from camp would wax eloquent about their fantastic summers, but I could not relate. Yes, I had some good experiences, but they were not enough to counteract the strain I endured. I hated reliving the negative feelings in conversations with friends, but I felt like I had to keep quiet about it. Surely something was wrong with me because I had such a terrible summer while everyone else had the time of their lives.

For over a year, I struggled with this, not receiving much clarity about my purpose at camp. Then, at my home church during fall break this year, my Sabbath School class discussed the first 20 verses of I Samuel

1 — the story of Hannah and how she came to have her son Samuel. The story was familiar enough: Hannah and Peninnah were both married to Elkanah.

Peninnah had children, but Hannah was barren; however, Elkanah still loved Hannah the most. Every year the family would travel to celebrate Passover, and Elkanah would give Hannah a double portion of the meat. Peninnah, however, was jealous and provoked Hannah for her barrenness, which caused Hannah to become distressed and stop eating. This happened every year, as mentioned in verse 7.

After reviewing the story, my pastor stopped and simply said, “I don’t think Hannah looked forward to Passover. It was a spiritually high event, and she probably dreaded the thought of going every year.”

In that moment, I felt seen.

Beforehand, I did not realize the similarity of our situations. I felt guilty that I was not able to celebrate the summer the way my friends did. But here was a woman who felt the same thing.

Like me, Hannah probably felt guilty that she was not able to celebrate the Passover with as much enthusiasm as everyone else. Hannah expressed her grief through a bitterly honest prayer, which helped me to recognize that I no longer had to hide my emotions or hide from them, either. Even though I still do not know the full impact that I made that summer, just knowing that I wasn’t alone in my feelings was enough to propel me into a stage of healing.

Perhaps you too feel guilty that you cannot enjoy times of celebration as much as you wish. Maybe you’ve had a similar experience with a Christian event or program, or maybe the coming Christmas season feels

more like a time of grief than one of rejoicing. Yet, just as Hannah took her pleas to the Lord, you too can let Him know about the burdens you carry that often take the place of celebrations.

Maybe you will receive clarity instantly; maybe it will take more time — it took Hannah at least nine months after her prayer at the temple to have her beloved son. Be patient in the waiting

and cling close to the Lord. And as He did with Hannah, may He one day turn your sorrows into joy. (John 16:20b)

Just as Hannah (I Samuel 1) took her pleas to the Lord, you too can let Him know about the burdens you carry that often take the place of celebrations. (Photo sourced from Pexels)

7 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

For more related news, visit our website at southern-accent.org

LIFESTYLE

Practical picnic pointers for a warmer time Allison Grundy Lifestyle Editor What comes to mind when I think about a picnic is rosy gingham blankets, wicker baskets and sweet family gatherings. As nice as that is, picnics as a college student are something that can be far more utilitarian. In my experience, I find that whenever I am able to sit outside and study, I’m able to be more focused. Additionally, according to the McLean Hospital website, time in the outdoors has been shown to improve memory, attention, impulse control and creativity.

With how many hours people spend inside, switching things up and spending time outside is an attractive option, especially when the weather is nice. However, a reason people may shy away from picnics is the unpleasant implications of the outdoors: it may be too cold or hot, too sunny or maybe there are a lot of bugs.

But there are solutions to all of these natural inconveniences.

First, it’s always a good idea to bring layers, a blanket or two, or try to find some shade when picnicking, depending on the day. Sunscreen on sunny days is also important to make a picnic as healthy as possible. Whenever I sit outside for long periods of time, I find myself getting up to move the blanket a few times, chasing the shade with the passing of the day.

Another picnic misfortune is rain, especially the way it leaves the grass wet and muddy. This can make it very unpleasant to sit down. In order to be able to sit in the grass during the aftermath of wet weather, it’s handy to have a tarp-lined picnic blanket, often

called a waterproof blanket. Water and mud will seep through other types of blankets, but I’ve found that the tarp-lined ones keep a picnicker nice and dry. I ordered one online and it’s been a great investment.

When basking in a warm day, bugs can quickly become an issue. Earlier this semester, my friends and I tried to sit under the large trees outside of the Village Market; it’s a beautiful spot to set up a picnic. However, my friends and I became slowly covered in these small, fly-like insects that were so tiny they were getting stuck to the fibers of our clothes.

To keep uninvited guests away, bug spray always helps. Another factor that can limit bugs is picking the right spot. It helps to look around to make sure there aren’t lots of bugs and that you are not, hopefully, sitting right next to any colonies. Lastly, bugs stay away more when food is covered up as much as possible. However, I always let nicer-looking insects crawl around my picnic blanket, like ladybugs and the type of medium-sized black ants that are notorious for loving picnics.

When I was in boarding academy, the campus was beautiful, and I spent countless hours sitting outside overlooking the mountains. I often called home to my parents during that time, eventually causing them to complain that I was spending much too much time outside rather than on my studies. I explained how there were, in fact, much worse things than too many picnics and how good it was for my mental health. I was able to be more inspired and productive because of my habit of doing things outside.

I want to encourage people to do what they can to get outside more and try to find creative solutions to whatever may be

stopping them. A picnic setting is great to do school work, talk with friends or just have some leisure time. It may be cold now,

Having a picnic is a good way to get outside and be inspired. (Photo by Allison Grundy)

SOCIAL

For a chance to be featured, use or tag @sauaccent on Instagram in your posts!

Dear Kevin Dear Kevin, There’s a lot of people on campus I want to give a small Christmas present to. Do you have ideas for inexpensive yet appreciated gifts?

Dear Gift-Giver Gabby, When it comes to small gifts for people, the old cliche still rings true: It really is the thought that counts!

If you want to give something personal, maybe try getting some books from a used book store. You could also try giving small notebooks or journals.

People always need something to write on!

If you and your friends have inside jokes, it could be fun to give a small gift that references one of those jokes. Never underestimate the magic of a good laugh together.

College students are rarely disappointed when receiving free food. Gifting your friends a snack or drink from their favorite eatery is a sure way to affordibly spread holiday cheer.

Dear Kevin, I’m interested in studying abroad, but I heard it could set me back with my graduation. I’m also worried about leaving my friends and family.

What should I do? Help.

Dear Nomadic Nora, Do it! You won’t regret it. It definitely might set you back, but now is the time. It’s easier to change your graduation date now than to leave a job in the future.

Also, a lot of classes you take during a year abroad can transfer back, so you can meet with your adviser to plan that out.

As for your friends and family, scheduling regular calls and facetimes can help you stay connected with your loved ones.

Studying abroad will teach you more than college can, like how to move to a new place and create your own community.

You’ll get to travel, find yourself, meet new people, try new things and get out of your comfort zone.

but I’m looking forward to the time again when it just makes more sense to be outside.

#SAUlife S

J

Stefanie Green

🚙

stefaniemgreen

L

Julie Roy

jalee_beee11 Photo Credit: Kaitlyn Layson

Lenisa Garcia

N

Norelie Cabrera

Do you have a question for Kevin?

Scan the QR code or click on the link in the Accent’s Instagram bio to submit your question.

lenisa.garcia nov dump:

🚚🤎

🚙🍰🎁🌅🎄🎶☕️

Photo Credit: Jaymie States

This week’s winner is @junie.beee. To collect your prize, go to the Student Development office.

M

Makayla Zinke

⛄

melissajmaguire Tis the season Photo Credit: Hamilton Mall Employee

V

Valeria Izaguirre

Knowing that students might want a festive drink, Kevin is offering a:

$10 Gift Card to Starbucks DM us on Instagram with a photo of where Kevin is hiding! makayla_zinke A few highlights of this semester!

valeriizhi VA you are so good to me

👯‍♀️🐶☕

👯‍

Photo Credit: Shayla Moguel-Coronel

8 | Wednesday, December 6, 2023

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

CHATTER Today — 6 50 - 29

• • •

Weekly Birthdays

No Field Trips or Tours Faculty Development Basketball Captain’s Meeting.

5:00p.m. @ Hulsey Wellness Center

TODAY |6

Thursday — 7 • • • •

Friday ­— 8 60 - 46

• • • • •

No Field Trips or Tours Convocation: Departments/Schools 11:00 a.m. @ Various locations VPAA Council. 3:30 p.m. # PBR or Virtual GRADFEST. 5:30 p.m. @ Bietz Center

56 - 34

No Field Trips or Tours Last day to receive Enrichment Credits for F23 SA Senate Surprise Day Sunset. 5:28 p.m.

Vespers - School of Music Christmas Concert. 7:30 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church

Saturday — 9 • •

No Field Trips or Tours Connect

64 - 50

Maya Wong

Monday |11

Betsy Calloway

Saturday |9

Wendi Eure

Karissa Arnold

Kaeddie De Voyard

Esecmit Izquierdo

Sophia Lin

Miranda Delgado

Ruben Martorell

Milca Munoz

Kirsten Kim

Ysani Pena

Carmen Perez

Ryan Lopez

Thursday |7

Glynnell Robinson

Shelby Spears

Max Harrison

Veronica Sanchez

Heidi Wittmer

Dana Holland

Michael Scott Hanna Soper

Tuesday |12

Melanie Illescas

Sammie Armstrong

Mia Aquino

Allison Kim

Sunday |10

David Kochanski

Donghyuk An

Sophia Cirigliano

Geraldy Marvel

Julia Dacosta

Caroline DeWind

Kenna Quaderer

Jyle Frias

Vitor Doy

John Suarez

Tristen Halversen

Anna Fisher

Friday |8

Sarah Hasel

Madalyn Fisher

Tori Avila

Kristiana Hoffman

Nelly Graterol

Kami Harris

Frank Lizardo

Mason Harmon

Chino Lopez-Medrano

Raegan Moore

Ophelia Ingelse

Franc Henry Madrio

Hannah Piroski

Fabian Lubis

Sebastian Mora

Earl Ploche

Geoffrey Montoya

Jabez Onsongo

Laura L. Viana

Bob Overstreet

Zac Parker

Delmas Whitlock

Cooper Roth

Adrian Bautista

Isabella Patel

Sunday — 10 Student Activities Announcements

53 - 32

Vespers - Christmas Concert Friday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the University Church Sabbath Chats Join us this Saturday morning at 10 a.m. for breakfast and Bible study in the Bietz

Monday — 11 • • •

Tuesday — 12 53 - 32

• •

No Field Trips or Tours Tornado Siren Test

No Field Trips or Tours Undergraduate Council @ 3:30 p.m.

Horn Ensemble. 7:30 p.m. @ Ackerman Auditorium

Center for Sabbath Chats! Sabbath Chats is a Student Association Sabbath school led by students in collaboration with professors to answer relevant questions through 52 -31

the Bible while providing breakfast.

School of Music Christmas Concert The university’s Bel Canto, Die Meistersinger and I Cantori choirs, under the direction of Gennevieve Brown-Kibble, will be joined by the Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Laurie Redmer Cadwallader, for a sacred holiday performance on Dec. 9 at 4 p.m. at the University Church.

School/Departments/Student organizations Christmas Party Saturday, Dec. 9 at various locations

MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING

A Pathway to the Classroom (With Any Bachelor’s Degree!)

Our online MAT program offers a master’s degree and initial teacher certification at the same time.

Seventh-day Adventist and/or public school certification options are available in as few as five to six semesters.

All classes are available online and students have the possibility of being paid during their field experience or student teaching.

Set yourself up for a rewarding career that offers: • great benefits • summers off • incredible job security • a strong sense of mission • fulfillment that comes from knowing you’re making a difference

1.800.SOUTHERN • southern.edu/graduatestudies