Vol. 79 Issue 16

Mental Health | 5

Opinion | 6

Religion | 6

Lifestyle | 7

In a hectic world, hike your way to happiness

Coffee and Adventism: Two opposing views

Will I ever change? Questions for spiritual strugglers

Slow living: Is it a trend or a revolution?

February 7, 2024 Collegedale, Tennessee

Southern Accent

Vol. 79 Issue 16

The student voice since 1926

A unique perspective: Students who grew up outside the church share what it's like attending an Adventist university Southern to host inaugural conference illuminating art-faith connections Emma Boughman Reporter

Kelsey Bright, a new Adventist, has sometimes felt out of place at Southern Adventist University due to her unfamiliarity with Adventist doctrines. However, she loves being surrounded by like-minded individuals who love Jesus.

(Photo courtesy of source)

Marian Polanco Reporter While many Southern Adventist University students adhere to the Seventh-day Adventist faith, not all come from the same religious background. A unique group exists at Southern — students who did not grow up in the Adventist tradition yet chose to make this university their academic home.

For senior social work major Adam Bellis, family dynamics shaped his path to Southern.

His mother’s remarriage to an Adventist pastor introduced him to the Adventist faith, eventually leading him to convert to Adventism and choose Southern for his higher education. Since he grew up Baptist, his transition to the Adventist lifestyle proved a substantial change.

“I grew up Baptist, heavily involved in the Salvation Army.

“When he heard something he didn’t agree with as a Baptist,

Southern Adventist University will host a new arts and faith conference, Illuminate, from April 4-5. According to the university’s website, nearly 30 different speakers, performers and hands-on workshop leaders will be featured at the inaugural event, including accomplished authors, a Christian rapper, filmmakers and many more.

“We can’t wait to explore the intersections of art and faith together with you through presentations, performances, workshops and conversations over meals,” the website states.

In an email to the Accent, Lucas Patterson, associate director for strategic partnerships and the event coordinator, wrote that people see and respond differently when looking at it through faith-filtered lenses.

“We often compartmentalize these two areas, but upon closer inspection, they frequently overlap and inform one another,” Patterson stated.

Patterson believes the creative process of making something from nothing, and thus having a deep care and understanding for that creation, provides a glimpse into the

See PERSPECTIVE on page 2

See CONFERENCE on page 2

Adam Bellis was introduced to Adventism when his mom married an Adventist pastor. His life became drastically different after he chose to accept the Adventist faith for himself. Interactions with Southern students and staff have helped him gain a sense of belonging on campus. (Photo courtesy of source)

Life was very different. All weekend I was in sports, Friday to Sunday,” Bellis said. “Hearing people’s stories of how they grew up Adventist was drastically different.”

“All weekend I was in sports, Friday to Sunday. Hearing people's stories of how they grew up Adventist was drastically different.”

Upon arriving at Southern, Bellis faced the challenge of adapting to a new religious environment.

As a freshman, he grappled with gaps in his knowledge about Adventist doctrines, since he had grown up in a religion with entirely different beliefs. Despite these initial hurdles, Bellis said his interactions with Adventist

students, teachers and staff have positively contributed to his sense of belonging within the Southern community.

When asked in what ways, if any, his perspective has been broadened or challenged by interacting with Adventist students, he answered, “Honestly, how people interpret the lifestyle of Adventists. I love my [Adventist] home church; it is more liberal than traditional Adventism. Meanwhile, Southern, in some ways, is more conservative; students are more liberal, while the institution is stricter.”

Sophomore industrial/organizational psychology major Kelsey Bright is a new Adventist who was formerly a Baptist for most of her life.

“Once I became more certain about my Adventist beliefs, I knew my other college options would not fit me well,” she said.

“I became friends with some-

one at my new church who was going to Southern and heard great things about it. I had a good experience when I visited campus with my parents and stayed a night in the dorms with a girl who is now my roommate.

After receiving a scholarship that made it affordable, I fully committed to Southern.”

Bright said she came into contact with Adventism when her dad began listening to a Christian radio station without knowing it was Adventist.

"I loved the church I grew up in, and leaving brought deep challenges."

Lights Volunteers revived, community members Part time, full impact: Exploring serve as pseudo-patients for nursing students

the roles of adjunct professors

Eliana Morales Staff Writer

Htet Myint Reporter

On Feb. 1, participants from Southern’s Lights Volunteers program helped train nursing students in the lab by becoming practice patients.

This opportunity allowed students of Health Assessment II to put their skills to the test while connecting with the community, according to Elani Dodd, assistant professor in the School of Nursing.

“Lights Volunteers is a way for people in the community to get involved on campus,” said John Boone, assistant director of Alumni Relations. “These are sometimes alumni, sometimes former employees or professors. Sometimes they are people who don’t have a connection to the university but want to get involved with the ministries that go on here.”

According to Southern’s website, Lights Volunteers began in 2005 when Chris Carey, who was

the vice president for Advancement, and Alumni Relations director Cheryl Torres, who was then a student worker, had the idea of starting an organized volunteer program on campus.

Today, many of the program’s volunteers are retirees.

“In retirement years, we want to still be of service, ” said Lester Merklin, who participated in the practice-patient lab. “That’s why we chose to move somewhere near Southern, so that we could do things with college students. …[It] keeps me young.”

Adjunct faculty play a vital role in shaping the academic experience for Southern Adventist University students, both on and off campus. According to the university’s Adjunct Faculty Handbook, the role of part-time faculty encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, including selecting textbooks, developing a course

syllabus, teaching, grading and supervising labs, among other things. Adjunct faculty, however, are not expected to attend staff meetings, attend regular school/ departmental functions, serve on campus committees or schedule regular office hours, according to the handbook.

The Accent interviewed multiple adjunct faculty members See ADJUNCT on page 3

“In retirement years, we want to still be of service. That’s why we chose to move somewhere near Southern, so that we could do things with college students. …[It] keeps me young.”

Nursing student Leilani Darnell checks the pulse of a Lights Volunteer.

Thursday, February 1, 2024. (Photo by Eliana Morales)

Lights Volunteers often collaborates with academic departments on campus.

“Pre-COVID, the School of Nursing had a vibrant relationship with Lights Volunteers,” said Dodd in a phone interview with The Accent. “That relationSee LIGHTS on page 3

Miro Manestar, an adjunct in the School of Computing, helps a student with a complex problem. Wednesday, January 31, 2024.

(Photo by Preston Waters)

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

2 | Wednesday, February 7, 2023

NEWS

School of Business to offer economics major Nyah Jackson Staff Writer The School of Business at Southern Adventist University will begin offering an economics major in the Fall 2024 semester.

According to Stephanie Sheehan, dean of the School of Business, economics has been a minor since 2021. The School of Business faculty felt they needed to expand the program.

Sungin Ahn teaches microeconomics to students. Friday, February 2, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)

CONFERENCE continued from page 1

creator’s mind and helps individuals understand how He cares for them.

“We often compartmentalize these two areas, but upon closer inspection, they frequently overlap and inform one another.”

Although Illuminate is a new concept for Southern, the connection between art and faith has been woven directly into the School of Visual Art and Design’s (SVAD) class curriculum, Patterson stated.

Patterson consulted with SVAD professor Giselle Hasel about this conference and also helped SVAD get involved with another art conference called Hutchmoot. Hasel was impressed by Hutchmoot’s elevation of Christians in the visual and literary arts. Illuminate will

PERSPECTIVE

continued from page 1 he studied the Bible and found the Adventist perspective to be biblical,” she said. “My family then began attending the local Seventh-day Adventist church at the end of 2020. It was very difficult for me and took me a long time to accept it for myself, though. I was baptized this past August 2023.”

When asked about common misconceptions she’s encountered regarding her conversion to Adventism and former reli-

be a similar event. Patterson has invited many speakers and presenters, including Hasel, to speak at Illuminate about their passion for art and faith.

“Illuminate is an opportunity for more students to similarly engage with these topics—without leaving campus!” Patterson stated.

Advancement’s strategic partnership office is organizing Illuminate, since this event aims to benefit students and serve alumni and the community, according to Patterson.

“Department chairs, deans and faculty from Southern’s art, English and music programs were consulted for the initial shaping of Illuminate and continue to provide valuable insight,” he stated.

Professors from each of these areas will be presenting. The list of guest speakers includes such names as Andrew Peterson, musician of “Is He Worthy?;” Propaganda, Christian rapper and spoken word artist; Nicholas Zork, minister of worship and the arts at Church of the Advent Hope Seventh-day Adventist Church in New York City; Douglas McKelvey, author of “Every Moment Holy;”

Ned Bustard, artist, graphic designer, children’s book illustrator, author and printmaker; and Karen Swallow Prior, author of “On Reading Well.”

gion, Bright shared that people sometimes think leaving a longheld faith system behind is easy.

“I loved the church I grew up in, and leaving brought deep challenges,” she said. “It is difficult to understand the struggle without experiencing it personally.

“I have run into many misconceptions about Baptists,” she added. “While there is great variety among Baptists, it is not true that Baptists can’t love Jesus or have a relationship with Him. The majority of my friends and extended family are Baptists, and they love God and seek a deeper relationship with Him. I have not left behind

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

“Since that time, market research data indicates a growing interest in this field,” Sheehan said. “The knowledge and skills developed within this field are highly valued by companies across all sectors, which increases job opportunities for graduates in various industries in the local, national and multinational arenas.”

The courses that will be required for this new major have not been voted on yet.

Sungin Ahn, assistant professor in the School of Business, is the initial faculty member for the incoming economics program. He said the required classes may include econometrics, intermediate macroeconomics, intermediate microeconomics, managerial economics and calculus I. There will also be 12 hours of major electives to choose from. These include financial economics, develop-

Editor-in-chief Amanda Blake Managing Editor Matthew Orquia News Editor Lesieli Savelio Collegedale News Editor Hayden Kobza Photo Editor Preston Waters

ment economics, game theory and economic forecasting.

“The Economics major will provide students rigorous, analytical training in the study of economic principles and policies,” said Ahn. “The sequence of courses will be grounded in economic theory as well as theory and application of statistical analysis.

"The practical lessons that students will learn include how people, firms, and governments respond to incentives to make decisions," he continued. "If students decide on majoring in economics, they may have opportunities in a broad range of careers, including business analyst, government analyst, financial advisor, economic consultant, corporate lawyer and banker.”

The School of Business formed the Economics Club to gain more interest in the economics major. Sheehan said the

club was created “to provide students with the opportunity to become more literate in contemporary economic issues.”

One of the activities the Economics Club will participate in is the Fed College Challenge, hosted by the Federal Reserve, said Sheehan. This challenge is a team competition for undergraduate students. Teams analyze economic and financial conditions and formulate a monetary policy recommendation, modeling the Federal Open Market Committee.

Although the exact demand is still undetermined, many students have expressed interest in the major to be a part of Southern’s academics, according to Sheehan.

“As awareness increases, we expect the program to be of growing interest to prospective, incoming and undecided students,” Sheehan said.

People see and respond to art differently when looking at it through faithbased lenses.

Prior told the Accent that she will speak about the ways reading good literature well can help cultivate a better life. She is excited not only about her involvement, but also about some of the other speakers who have been chosen. “[Illuminate] looks like it’s going to be a fantastic event with people that I’m looking forward to learning from,” Prior said.

Hasel said she has always been interested in the topic she is presenting — religion and art, especially how the Protestant Reformers used art. Although she cannot pick a favorite, some art pieces she loves come from Cranach the Elder, specifically his work “Law and Grace.” Hasel

Andrew Peterson, a Christian songwriter, musical artist, filmmaker and bestselling author, is set to perform at Southern's inaugural Illuminate conference on Friday, April 5. (Photo from andrewpetersoon.

hopes to speak more about the art piece in her speech at Illuminate. Her main concerns are to do the subject justice and to represent Southern well. “[The connection between religion and art] has been a lifelong kind of interest that I have been pursuing and teaching here at Southern,” Hasel said.

Illuminate is a ticketed event for Southern alumni and community members, and individuals can register online, Patterson said. The first 40 alumni who register will receive a discount.

Patterson said all Southern stu-

dents and employees can attend for free and do not need to register but will need to show their IDs and sign in upon arrival.

The conference will include Q&A sessions, immersive workshops such as printmaking, prayer writing and songwriting and also evening performances.

People can view session topics, the conference schedule and scheduled speakers as well as register for the event at www. southern.edu/connect/illuminate. For more information, email illuminate@southern.edu.

my Baptist friends, and I am so thankful for the way they continue to encourage me in the Lord. We love and serve the same God.” Despite her inclination toward Adventism, Bright often feels out of place at Southern due to her unfamiliarity with Adventist history and prophetic dates.

She mentioned her struggles with feelings of inadequacy and inferiority, which stem from not hearing about Adventist doctrines while growing up.

“People have been kind and welcoming, though,” Bright said.

“I’ve been told by others that they wouldn’t have known I didn’t grow

up Adventist. I grew up in a strong Baptist family and church."

Bright emphasized the importance of a supportive community in overcoming the challenges of being a new Adventist at Southern.

“I love that I once again have close friends with whom I share the same beliefs; they’re in the Adventist church now,” she said.

“It is such a wonderful blessing to be surrounded with likeminded friends who love and serve Jesus, and it has broadened my perspective of the Adventist world.”

For Bright, the experience of keeping the Sabbath with like-minded friends is a blessing unlike any other she has encountered before.

Lifestyle Editor Allison Grundy

Reporters Emma Boughman Alissa Flores Amy Mejias Htet Myint Marian Polanco

Opinion Editor Alexis Dewey Religion Editor Madison Wilcox Sports Editor Jacob Nevis Web Manager Meg Ermer

"I have not left behind my Baptist friends, and I am so thankful for the way they continue to encourage me in the Lord."

Bright said she has never felt judged for not growing up as an Adventist. She acknowledges the learning curve for specific Adventist academy acronyms but appreciates the understanding and kindness of her peers.

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Social Media Manager Lia Colon Photographers Andrew Boggess Mila Bales Ron Cabacungan Andre Ottati Circulation Manager Norelie Cabrera Staff Sponsor Alva James-Johnson

3 | Wednesday, February 7, 2023

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NEWS Zoom continues broadening access to Writing and Tutoring Centers Aidan McCollough Staff Writer Four years ago, Southern Adventist University’s Writing Center and Tutoring Center incorporated Zoom as their official platform for virtual appointments, as the video conference application became a regular part of students’ lives during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Both centers, located on the third floor of McKee Library, continue to offer Zoom services, and virtual meetings remain more popular among students now than they were pre-COVID-19.

Zoom appointments allow students who cannot come to campus due to distance, bad weather or sickness to access the Writing Center and Tutoring Center. Sonja Fordham, the director of both centers, shared new details with the Accent about opportunities the centers have begun offering high school students due to the recent popularity of virtual appointments.

“We are now able to offer help to high school students

LIGHTS

continued from page 1 ship faded with the onset of COVID, and now we’re bringing it back this semester.”

Rebuilding the size and scope of this volunteer taskforce has been a process, according to Boone.

“It’s been a little while trying to get this program back up to the size it used to be,” he said.

“Volunteers used to be all over this campus and helping in every department. … We are trying to not only get connected more with the School of Nursing, but also [with] all departments on campus, to get volunteers active again.”

The practice-patient sessions are a step in that direction not only for Lights Volunteers participants, but also for students. Practicing assessment skills on the volunteers has a positive impact on learning, according to Dodd.

“They have such a wealth of life experience,” she said.

ADJUNCT

continued from page 1 about their experiences working for Southern and how they stay connected to the university.

“I don’t feel as isolated as I once did at UTC, plus the pay is better!”

Alicia Adams, an adjunct professor for the School of Journalism and Communication, started teaching online classes in Fall 2023 as a way to stay connected to her alma mater. Notably, she serves as the director of marketing at Pacific Press Publishing in Nampa, Idaho.

“I have felt a lot of support from the department and from the university, and it has been a delightful experience thus far,” said Adams.

While she receives schoolwide email updates and invitations, Adams wishes for more live broadcasts or recorded faculty development events to facilitate her participation.

Victoria Carlson, an adjunct professor in the School of Visual Arts and Design, described her experience at Southern as “amazing — the support, the care, the students … just fabulous.”

Carlson, who said she feels included and supported by the university, noted the exceptional students and expressed joy in being part of their training. Having previously worked as an art director intern, her transition to adjuncting at Southern has far exceeded her own expectations.

The positive atmosphere and

[who are] taking dual enrollment classes through Southern but are attending a high school such as Shenandoah Valley Academy and Fletcher Academy,” Fordham said. “These academies are able to share this Writing Center resource with their students. … If [they] did not have this [online] option, they would not be able to get Writing Center help.”

While virtual appointments were possible before, they were largely popularized during and

after the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Fordham, both the Writing Center and Tutoring Center have provided virtual appointments since 2014, initially through the centers’ online server. However, in 2020, the centers adopted Zoom once the COVID-19 pandemic caused Southern to fully transition to online classes.

Even when Southern transitioned back to in-person classes, some students continued to opt for virtual appointments at the centers.

Amber Kishihara works at the Tutoring Center’s reception desk. Monday, February 5, 2024. (Photo by Ron Cabacungan)

“Some are nurses, some are not. It gives students a chance to assess a diverse population with diverse health history.”

During the lab, the nurses-in-training also gain a sense of what working with real patients is like.

“Because as nurses, sometimes you get kind of old and grumpy, and these nurses are new and fresh and excited to learn.”

“I couldn’t cut corners,” said junior nursing student Leilani Darnell. “Also, they have real stories.

Because they’ve lived a longer life, they have more of a medical history than my peers would.”

Working with Lights Volunteers in the lab may also help students begin to build a network, Boone explained.

“A lot of our volunteers are older; about 60% are retired,” he said. “Each of those alumni have

the opportunity to contribute to the development of talented and thoughtful students have made her experience at Southern truly fulfilling.

Monica Coulter, who teaches in the School of Health and Kinesiology, expressed her love for working at Southern and highlighted the contrast between her current experience and how she felt at institutions she has worked at previously.

“I don’t feel as isolated as I once did at UTC,” Coulter wrote to the Accent, “plus the pay is better!”

Miro Manestar’s journey into adjuncting is marked by a unique blend of technical expertise and a passion for teaching. Manestar was offered an adjuncting position after expressing interest a year prior, when he was close to attaining his master’s degree from Southern.

“I really enjoy adjuncting. I walk into this room, and it’s cool to see their light bulbs switch on. If anyone thinks of adjuncting, they should try it."

“I had tutored and TA’d; the logical next step would be adjuncting,” Manestar said As an adjunct professor in the School of Computing, he navigates the challenge of turning a textbook into a comprehensive course.

“You’re kind of just thrown into a classroom with a textbook and [must] make a whole course out of it,” Manestar said.

He added that he finds solace in the support of full-time faculty members. He also enjoys

lived a life of their own. … Some of them might be retired business [men] who have a brother who runs a hospital in Detroit, which is maybe where a student wants to go after graduation. You just never know what connections are going to be made, which is something that can be very valuable.”

The practice-patient lab was Marilyn Pyles’s second volunteer event since joining the program two months ago. She recently retired from nursing and expressed that her favorite part of working with the students was their kindness and eagerness.

“They’re just a joy,” she said. “[It’s] hard to explain that enthusiasm.

Because as nurses, sometimes you get kind of old and grumpy, and these nurses are new and fresh and excited to learn.”

The next practice-patient volunteer opportunity is on Feb. 29. Lights Volunteers who are interested should contact Elani Dodd at elanidodd@southern. edu. To join the Lights Volunteers, apply online at southern. edu/volunteers.

“Last year, 15.3% of students scheduled online appointments,” Fordham said. “The students usually live off campus or have difficulty making it to the library for a face-toface appointment.”

Virtual appointments provide tutors with the ability to work when McKee Library must shut down due to adverse weather conditions. On Jan. 15 and 16, below-freezing temperatures delayed the library’s opening time until 6 p.m. However,

tutors and students were still able to meet online.

“Even though I usually prefer in-person appointments, I’m glad I was still able to meet with students online, rather than rescheduling it for later,” said Ana Zelidon, junior English major and Writing Center tutor. “For some students, we needed to meet that day because their papers were due soon. Classes were canceled, but most assignments were not.”

Gabriella Lewis tutors pre-nursing students in the Tutoring Center.

Monday, February 5, 2024. (Photo by Ron Cabacungan)

Nursing student Benny Santos practices administering an IV during a nursing skills lab. In early February, community members volunteered as practice patients for nursing students, allowing them to build their skills with live patients. Thursday, February 1, 2024. (Photo by Andre Ottati)

when his teaching helps illumi- an adjunct professor at Southern. nate a student’s understanding.

“Since I’m fairly new [to adjuncting], I probably will continue to learn and grow, but the support “Every job I've ever had God has I’ve received so far has been great,” introduced me to.” Arroyo said.

She stays connected to South“I really enjoy adjuncting,” Mane- ern’s Psychology Department star said. “I walk into this room, through regular professional and and it’s cool to see their light bulbs personal communication. switch on. If anyone thinks of “I get emails for professional adjuncting, they should try it.” development activities on camLibna Arroyo, a Southern pus; it gives me an idea of what’s alumna, works as a full-time pro- happening,” she said. “Some of fessor at Pacific Union College and the professors were my class-

mates, so I keep in touch with them. … I’ve always felt connected to Southern.”

For Janet Borisevich, adjuncting for the English Department is more than a career; it’s a divine calling. Her journey to Southern involved a prayerful decision, leading her away from the stress of previous positions.

“Every job I’ve ever had God has introduced me to,” Borisevich said. “It’s not because of an application. It's always been God choosing, not me.”

4 | Wednesday, February 7, 2023

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

NEWS

Ignite Live with Riley Clemmons

Riley Clemmons sings "Fighting For Me" to close out Ignite Live. Saturday, February 3, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)

Gianna Bacchiocchi and Matthew Taylor host Ignite Live featuring special guest Riley Clemmons. Saturday, February 3, 2024. (Photo by Mila Bales) Bryson Baird answers a question for Family Feud as Raegan Blake hosts the game.

Saturday, February 3, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)

Riley Clemmons sings with band 2 a.m. curfew. Saturday, January 27, 2024.

(Photo by Ron Cabacungan)

Ariel Lantigua accompanies Riley Clemmons on the keyboard. Saturday, February 3, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)

Riley Clemmons sings "Church Pew" to open up the concert portion of Ignite Live.

Saturday, February 3, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)

Riley Clemmons tells the crowd how growing up in church impacted her view of God. Saturday, February 3, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)

5 | Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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MENTAL HEALTH

In a hectic world, hike your way to happiness Edward Backer Contributor Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.

In a fast-paced world filled with demanding schedules, finding solace in nature has become increasingly important for our mental well-being. Hiking provides a way to find peace and calm in this hectic world. And as recent scientific studies have shown, hiking provides many benefits for our mental health, including its potential to alleviate stress, boost mood, foster self-reflection, strengthen relationships and improve sleep quality. So let’s explore the transformative power of hiking and its impact on our mental well-being.

Amidst fresh air and winding trails, hiking offers an escape from the stresses of daily life. Engaging in physical activity during a hike triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-blocking hormones. This surge of “feelgood” chemicals helps reduce symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety, leading to a more positive mindset and an improved state of mind. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the release of endorphins during exercise significantly impacts mental health, boosting mood and promoting overall happiness.

Research conducted by Stanford University reveals that immersing oneself in nature during a hike can profoundly affect mental health. Participants who walked in serene natural settings exhibited decreased ac-

tivity in brain regions associated with depression. The soothing presence of nature is a remedy for depressive symptoms, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. In a world dominated by screens and artificial stimulation, hiking allows us to reconnect with the natural world, nurturing our mental well-being and restoring balance to our lives. So disconnect from your earbuds and plug into nature’s serenity!

Hiking offers another benefit, as well: an opportunity for self-reflection. The reflective qualities of hiking enable people to disconnect from the constant noise and distractions that often cloud their thoughts.

This serenity fosters clarity, improved cognitive function and positive thinking. Combined with the release of endorphins during exercise, hiking becomes a powerful tool for gaining perspective, finding inner peace and enhancing our mental well-being.

Hiking trails also provide a unique opportunity to foster deeper connections with loved ones. Whether embarking on a challenging trek or enjoying a stroll through lush greenery, hiking with others strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. The shared experience of conquering nature’s obstacles and marveling at its beauty nurtures connection and

mutual support. Hiking allows for meaningful conversations, laughter and shared awe and inspiration. Such experiences deepen our relational health and provide a refreshing break from the demands of urban life.

Getting enough sleep is essential for good mental health, and going on hikes can help improve the quality of your sleep at night. A study by Bisson et al. found a positive association between daily active minutes (including hiking) and sleep quality, particularly in women. Physical activity promotes healthy sleep patterns, facilitating physical recovery and supporting mental rejuvenation. By hiking and immersing ourselves in nature’s

tranquility, we enhance our sleep quality, waking up refreshed and ready to face the day with a rejuvenated mind.

In a world where stress and mental health concerns have become prevalent, hiking is a method to obtain peace and healing. Its ability to reduce stress, boost mood, encourage self-reflection, strengthen relationships and improve sleep quality makes it a powerful tool for nurturing our mental well-being. As we lace up our boots and venture into the great outdoors, let’s embrace the transformative power of hiking, allowing nature to heal, inspire and uplift our spirits.

Noah Wolfe hikes along Southern’s biology trails. Monday, February 5, 2024. (Photo by Mila Bales)

Black History Month: My favorite Black athletes Pt.2 Jacob Nevis Sports Editor Every February, the United States celebrates Black History Month. Last year, I wrote about two of my favorite Black athletes, Stephen Curry and Reggie Bush, and this year I want to talk about other Black athletes who have impacted my life as a sports fan.

While some football fans may not have heard of Cameron Wake, he is one of the reasons why I became such a big fan of the Miami Dolphins.

Wake was a defensive end for the Dolphins from 2009 to 2018. Growing up a Dolphins fan was very rough, and it was hard to stay a fan of a team that never won any playoff games.

Wake was always one of the few bright spots for a young Dolphins fan. He was selected to be a first-team All Pro in 2012 and would eventually make the Pro Bowl five times. I am very glad that I got the opportunity to see Wake play, and he will always be one of my favorite Dolphins players.

The second Black athlete who impacted my life was Rickey Henderson, who was an outfielder for the Oakland Athletics. Henderson is considered the best A’s player of all time, and he leads the MLB in career steals. Henderson is also considered to be the best leadoff hitter in MLB history.

While I didn’t get to watch Henderson play in person, I can remember watching A’s games on TV, and the channel was always showing highlights. Those highlights made me very interested in Henderson, so I remem-

Many consider Rickey Henderson the best Oakland A’s player of all time. (Photo sourced from Flickr)

ber searching for YouTube highlights of his plays. Henderson helped me fall in love with a team that has been very inconsistent.

His playing style took the MLB by storm and left a huge impact on the game of baseball.

Without the impact Black athletes have had in the sports world, it would have been hard for me to become the major sports fan that I am today. So for this Black History Month, think about the impact Black athletes have had on your life.

Imagine a world where they

didn’t play. I can tell you that the sports world would collapse without Black athletes.

Southern Basketball Intramurals Finals Schedule Saturday, Feb. 10: 7 p.m.

Mens B Final 8:30 p.m.

Ladies A Final 10 p.m.

Mens A Final

6 | Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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

OPINION Don’t get caught up in the weeds: Addiction is the problem, not coffee Alexis Dewey Opinion Editor Growing up as an Adventist, I have learned that people within the same denomination hold themselves to a wide array of ideals. Some adhere to certain dress codes, diets, ways of worship and more. Church members have differing opinions on what is “right” and “wrong.”

For example, some Adventists do not see an issue with eating out on Friday night or Sabbath after church, while others believe it to be wrong. Another example would be the discussion of whether women should be recognized and paid as top leaders in the church.

A big uproar in the Adventist community I have noticed in the last few years has been whether or not coffee consumption is

appropriate. A large reason for this ambiguity is a few quotes from Adventist co-founder Ellen G. White. For example, she wrote, “Tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcohol we must present as sinful indulgences.” (Letter and Manuscripts - Vol. 3, Manuscript 5, 1881). This is one of many quotes in which White warns against using coffee and other stimulants.

This debate has left several Adventists confused and battling with their inner conscience, as coffee consumption has become more popular over time. Americans drank coffee in the 19th century; however, it became more widely consumed in the 1960s, according to PBS. Then, Starbucks opened in 1971, which may have had an impact. Coffee has become a way of everyday life for the average American, and certainly for the average college student.

Coffee consumption has both health benefits and drawbacks.

Some concerns include resulting addiction, change in heart rate and mood swings. The health benefits include enhanced mood, brain health, endurance and energy, among others, according to Healthline.

White specifically names coffee as being unhealthy and harmful to your body. Coffee itself, however, is not necessarily bad for you, according to Healthline. “It’s high in antioxidants and linked to a reduced risk of many diseases. However, it also contains caffeine, a stimulant that can cause problems in some people and disrupt sleep.”

This statement argues that the coffee plant is not inherently good or bad, but rather, has pros and cons.

Coffee beans are natural and come straight from a plant.

However, it is the caffeine that worries health-conscious individuals, such as White. The negative effects of coffee consumption seem to equal an average energy drink. The common denominator is caffeine, which is also an ingredient in chocolate, black tea and green tea, some brands of soda, chewing gum and granola bars.

To say that coffee is bad because it is addictive is not a strong argument. Other things that are considered healthy can become harmful and addictive if done too often. For example, if you spend too much time, money or energy on one thing or activity, it can become harmful not only to your health, but also your spirituality. Using your phone, watching TV, buying

new things and even working out can become addictive.

The argument about whether or not you should drink coffee is valid, to some extent.

Watching out for your health is always something to think about and discuss. White is not the only one who preached the health message; it is in the Bible, as well.

Personally, I do not think coffee is something that we should be too harsh on ourselves about. If we get caught up in all the weeds of life, how do we decide to untangle ourselves? There are a lot of benefits to drinking coffee; however, it carries some harmful things, as well. Being “healthy” is generic in some cases, but it can also vary depending on the person. I encourage people to conduct their own research and talk to God about it.

No small matter: The consumption of coffee is a sin James Bowen Contributor Recently, an Accent article highlighted a local coffee business that has sprung up in the local Collegedale community, and in reading the article, I had to wonder, “Why would we choose to inform the student body about a business that earns by tempting individuals to commit sin?”

It seems that as it was in the days of King Josiah [Jeremiah 3:6], we have forgotten the truth we were given in the past and freely partake in what we have already been given clear evidence is morally wrong, hazardous to the health and incongruent with biblical principles.

In recent years, some have pointed to supposed health benefits of coffee or tea. How-

ever, recent studies published in journals such as Psychopharmacology have indicated that “the benefits of caffeine on performance and mood, widely perceived to be net beneficial psychostimulant effects, are almost wholly attributable to reversal of adverse withdrawal effects associated with short periods of abstinence from the drug.”

Caffeine has also been linked to health issues, including insomnia, increased heart rate and digestive problems. In some studies, “a 250 mg dose of caffeine has been shown to reduce resting cerebral blood flow (CBF) between 22% and 30%.”

The Bible cautions against allowing anything to control us, and the reliance on a substance for enhancement has the potential to lead to dependency,

detracting from the reliance on God’s strength and guidance.

In the writings of Ellen White, we read, “Tea and coffee drinking is a sin, an injurious indulgence, which, like other evils, injures the soul” (Letters and Manuscripts – Vol. 11 (1896), Manuscript 44). “Many families have cast away tobacco and tea and coffee and liquor, and the ministry of the Word has been brought home to their hearts and convicted them of sin and righteousness and judgment” (The Gospel Herald, Oct. 1, 1899). There are many such similar quotes clearly calling the consumption of caffeine sin that the readers may explore on their own.

From a biblical perspective, Adventists know that the same God who expelled Adam and Eve over a question of diet will not take lightly violations of his

will. We find in the book of Corinthians, where the Apostle Paul admonishes believers to honor God with their bodies. From this standpoint, the consumption of substances that may harm the body is prohibited. Similar to Daniel, Adventists have a prophetic calling to prepare in the antitypical day of atonement to have mental clarity to stand up to Babylon 2.0 when a similar test over false worship comes again.

We have been given the benefit of prophecy and scripture.

In 2 Chronicles 20:20 we read, “Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.”

It may seem like a small matter, but will a just God really allow those into Heaven who refuse to heed the counsel on diet when he expelled Adam and Eve for

eating that which was forbidden?

Will you join me in asking for the old paths (Jeremiah 6:16)?

James Bowen is a Southern Adventist University alum and practicing board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.

The consumption of coffee is often debated within Adventist circles. (Photo sourced from Unsplash)

RELIGION Will I ever change? Eight questions for spiritual strugglers Madison Wilcox Religion Editor Doesn’t life seem to strike in patterns, both the suffering and the sin? It always hurts in the same place. I always react in the same way. Life spirals. Where is God? Isn’t He supposed to burst in like a lightning bolt and fix me as He’s promised? “I will make all things new,” He says.

(Revelation 21:5) But where is the new?

In 2020, I took a gap year to ask these questions, to see whether God could really change my life. He did.

Mostly, He used an online biblical counseling course from the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF). The premise of the course was simple: Growth happens in the place where my life and the Word meet. Yet, as I had discovered, learning to connect the details of my life with Bible truth does not always come naturally. Many times I let the Word waft over my life without it truly penetrating the complexity of my situation.

God, however, does not work in generalities. He works in the particulars.

Under this assumption — that God operates within the details of our lives — the course introduced eight simple questions. These questions function to draw out the particulars of both our experiences and God’s involvement within them. The first four focus on you. The next four bring God into the picture.

to the situation? What have you felt? Expand your vocabulary past general terms. (“Sad,” “Mad” or “Bad” don’t count.)

3) What rules you and “hijacks” your heart? This question reaches past the surfacelevel facts of your experience to examine your motives. What does your reaction reveal about your desires/cares/fears? What does it reveal about what/who you obey?

4) What are the consequences of your actions? Use this question to detail the “ripple effects” of your actions. How do your actions in this one situation influence the other sectors of your life? Work, family, relationships?

5) Who is God in light of this issue? The tide turns here.

Search the Bible for God’s response to your particular struggle. Take your time; this is the most important question. Push for a deeper understanding of God’s character, especially in relation to your specific situation.

6) How can you have a conversation with God? Respond to what you have learned about who God is. What would you do if you believed it? How can you interact with God honestly?

7) How can you show love to others in your situation? An honest conversation with God serves as a springboard to greater care for others. What would it look like to love someone else from this place?

8) What are the consequences of questions five through seven? Imagine the “ripple effects” that result from question five, six and seven. These positive effects reach as widely as the negative ones from question four.

As you begin to utilize these questions, approach one situation at a time. I journaled through them, allowing myself to linger on each question as long as I needed. You can use them to guide your morning devotions, or take some alone time on a Sabbath to work through them. Once you have learned what to look for, you can even apply them to your life in the heat of the moment.

However, if you choose to incorporate these questions into

1) What is happening to you?

This question targets your situation. Put it into words. Who or what is involved? Focus on the concrete particulars.

2) How are you reacting?

What have you done in response

Growth happens in the place where my life and the Word meet. (Photo sourced from Pexels)

your experience, remember that growth requires intentionality and often happens more slowly then we wish. At the same time, slow growth is the best kind of growth. It lasts.

Religion Editor’s Note: The course mentioned in this article and the material summarized are found in the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation’s course “Dynamics of Biblical Change,” where late counselor David Powlison teaches the methodology for biblical counseling described here. I recommend this course as the most effective tool for spiritual growth I have yet encountered. To learn more or register for the March session, visit https://www. ccef.org/course/dynamics-of-biblical-change.

7 | Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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

LIFESTYLE

Slow living: Is it a trend or a revolution?

Allison Grundy Lifestyle Editor Some trends on social media can be positive and others negative, while most seem to just be confusing to the average person. Yet trends are important to notice, as they tend to speak to the desires of the masses.

With this in mind, the “slow living” trend, which has become popular on social media within the last year or two, refers to a kind of life that is lived intentionally. The word “slow” here means taking the time to think and feel through decisions.

These ideals are reflected through people going on walks, being in nature, cooking or pursuing creative endeavors — especially ones that involve reflection, such as writing and journaling. Another layer to this trend involves influencers who are leading more self-sufficient lives, which include endeavors such as growing their own food and creating their own energy.

This movement is parallel to a movement of young women promoting the ways they’re preparing to be good wives and mothers. These trends go beyond just staying at home by stressing the importance of living more naturally, submitting to their families and being a good homemaker. Such movements may seem surprisingly old-fashioned to some people; however, it is interesting to see so many are interested in a revolution toward a lifestyle that would usually be considered less common.

Instagram boasts over 6 million posts under the hashtag #slowliving, and many more ap-

pear under similar tags. The trend promotes a lifestyle that calls for a better work/life balance and the idea that people should spend more time being intentional.

So, is this a good movement?

The answer is difficult because platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where these trends are popularized, seem to remove some of the integrity from the movements. Ironically, this lifestyle that encourages downtime from the internet is widely

promoted through posts on social media.

Nothing is wrong with the slow living trend on social media, but people are unlikely to reap the benefits of the movement if they are busy scrolling and comparing themselves on social media.

Social media is so removed from real life that it’s never a good practice to make too many assumptions about people’s posts and online habits. The values of the movement are important and

speak to the societal concerns of the new generation.

For example, coping with burnout and stress are serious issues. And there is a need to reflect on living a more conscious and intentional lifestyle, cutting back on consumption and removing the obstacles in life that don’t make a person happy. But at the end of the day, a trend is temporary. And it’s a shame to see trends with good messages come to an end.

Trends are temporary, but they can inspire lifestyle changes. (Photo sourced from Unsplash)

SOCIAL

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

Dear Kevin Dear Kevin, How should I feel about Southern serving caffeinated drinks on campus but not clean meats? Shouldn’t it be both or neither (Ellen G. White, Selected Messages Book 3, page 287)?

Dear Curious Kiddo, Caffeine is a very common substance and is found in a lot of foods, including tea and even chocolate. I know this because caffeine is toxic to ducks! It would be difficult to not serve any item containing caffeine on campus, especially if you count items with very little caffeine content.

Adventism encompasses a wide spectrum of beliefs that are often debated, even within the church, so it’s impossible for

If you are craving authenticity and “slow living” is a lifestyle that appeals to you, I think it’s important to create a change of pace that works for you. Finding inspiration from others may be one of the greatest gifts that the internet has given humanity, but social media is the last place to look if one wants to be present in the moment. Don’t let your choices be performative statements. Let them be a way of life.

Southern to perfectly match each person’s individual belief system.

#SAUlife E

Edvan Benitez

A

Ashley Morales

Dear Kevin, If you were to declare a major, which one would you choose?

Dear Inquisitive Isabella, If I could pick any major, it would probably be ornithology, but if it had to be a major that Southern offers, it would be biology. I would definitely still take the ornithology class, especially because of the field trip!

Really, I just want to figure out what happened to geese to make them so angry. Also, why are penguins considered birds when they can’t fly? Is a platypus a bird, since it lays eggs?

️

edvanjzbm LAC Night

K

_inzunzashley Photo Credit: Camille Ortiz

Katie Castillo

M

Mia Samaniego

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.

This week’s winner is @erin_bells68. To collect your prize, go to the Student Development office.

🥂✨

katielcastillo twenty1 Photo Credit: Amayah Crisp

J

Justin Bobo

mia._.sam i added pictures to my spotify playlists and the world has been more colorful ever since

️

A

Aly Lopes

Knowing that students might need a little extra cash, Kevin is offering a:

$10 Gift Card DM us on Instagram with a photo of where Kevin is hiding!

justbbo101 It is never too late to be what you might have been.” -George Eliot Photo Credit: Hannah Johnson

🌺

alyrocks_ lac night!!!

Photo Credit: Ron Cabacungan

8 | Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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

CHATTER Today — 7 62 - 39

• • •

Weekly Birthdays

Honors Choral Festival Faculty Development, 12:00 p.m. @ Presidential Banquet Room Volleyball Captain’s Meeting, 5:00 p.m. @ Hulsey Wellness Center

Thursday — 8 • • •

Honors Choral Festival Convocation: Student Association, 11:00 a.m. @ Iles PE Center Deans Luncheon, 12:00 p.m. @ Presidential Banquet Room

• • • • •

60 - 47

Honors Choral Festival Payday: Hourly/Student Sunset, 6:17 p.m.

Vespers - Student Missions, 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. @ Collegedale Church Afterglow, 8:45 p.m. @ Collegedale Church - South Atrium

Saturday — 10 Connect, 9:00 a.m. @ Collegedale Church Merge Worship, 11:45 a.m.

Honors Choral Festival Concert, 4:00 p.m. @ Collegedale Church Rees Series Finals, 7:30 p.m. @ Iles PE Center

•

Sunday — 11 63 - 51

• • •

• • •

McKee Library Open, 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Psychology Major Field Test, 2:005:00 p.m. @ Summerour Rm 2820 SA Super Bowl LVII Party, 6:00 p.m. @ Iles PE Center

Friday |9

Leyannah Chambers

Xenia P. Figueroa

Harty Sullano

Anyang Chen

Jared Houghtaling

Henry Valderrama

Britney Dixon

Allison Maitland

Grace A. Graham-White Krista Wolters

Friday ­— 9 60 - 53

TODAY |7

Jaziel Soto

Monday |12 Chehalis Eno

Chad Grundy

Saturday |10

Makenna Lunde

XWayne Anderson

Kiana Oliver

Yugeily Manriquez

Krishna Bemis

Somin Park

Xin Shen

Yosemy Chavez

Netanya Phan

Hosea Whitt

Cyrus Cho

Tuesday |13

Thursday |8

Roje’ Dotting

Valeishka Cruz Froese

Joy Burdick

Arionna Haakenson

Juls Cuellar

Anthony Daggs

Nolan Keyes

Jazmyne Damon

Raiden Eastland

Heather Morris

Matuka Haangala

Dominic Fisher

Brianna Perdomo

Alexis Hamilton

Jocelyn Hernan-

Casey Rumambi

Carys Johnson

dez-Favela

Helana Wade

Hyunmo Kim

Jaden Hutchinson

Sunday |11

Natalie Marden

Theodore Rogers

Angel Hernandez

Rachel Myers

Ashley Skidmore

Elijah Kim

Eden Olson

Chataqua Yardley

Jasmine Ramirez

Mia Sakata

Emily Self

Nicholas Walters

Anaya Miller

66 - 51

This Week’s Poll: Chiefs or 49ers?

Tell us which team you think will win the Super Bowl by scanning the QR code and submitting your answer. Poll results will be published in next week’s issue!

Monday — 12 • •

Tuesday — 13 54 - 30

•

Diversity Summit II, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

• • •

Volleyball Season begins Summer and SmartStart (S24) Registration Opens Staff Advisory Council, 3:30 p.m.

Faculty Senate, 3:30 p.m.

E.A. Anderson Lecture Series, 6:50 p.m. @ Brock Hall 3205

56 - 36

Last Week’s Results: Friends or The Office?

The Office wins!

MASTER’S DEGREE IN COUNSELING Let Us Help You Help Others

Southern’s counseling program provides practical knowledge combined with a highly-supervised clinical experience.

Scheduled for Your Convenience Hybrid classes support your work-life balance.

Designed for Your Success Southern’s CACREP-accredited programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling prepare students for state licensure and provide practical knowledge and clinical experience.

Grounded in Christian Principles The training you receive at Southern will be grounded in Christian principles and designed to prepare you for work in a variety of settings.

Master of Science in Counseling • Clinical Mental Health Counseling • School Counseling

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