VOLUME 70 | ISSUE 1 August 30, 2017
THE TSU HERALD
WELCOME TO TIGERLAND An Elevated Conversation | New Student Orientation | The Antebellum South Revisited | Biggers & Better Art Murals
WELCOME TO TIGERLAND
UNDERSTANDING STUDENT GOVERNMENT EXECUTIVE BOARD
Photo by J. Scroggins
Greetings from 70th SGA President Corbrin “Cornbread” Burton
The Executive Branch is made up of an elected President and Vice President, an appointed Executive Board, Executive Staff, Cabinet of Policy Directors and Agencies. These members are appointed by the President and approved by the Assembly.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
It has been with my deepest level of gratitude and humility that I’ve accepted the position as the 70th SGA President of Texas Southern University. I cannot put into words how elated I am at the level of trust and faith that the student body has in me to serve the university at this capacity.
The Legislative Branch is made up of the assembly of elected representatives. There are University-Wide Representatives that are elected by the entire student body and other representatives are elected to represent the students of specific colleges.
I would like to acknowledge the vast efforts and initiatives taken by the previous group of the SGA leadership; your service to us as a student body has not gone unnoted and will not be forgotten.
The Judicial Court, composed of 5 justices appointed by the Student Government President and approved by the Assembly would enforce the rules of the governing documents, mediate disputes between branches, and serve as the appellate court for the Election Board.
I share many thanks to my family, friends, student body, and faculty and staff who encouraged me along the way. To my campaign members and volunteers, your countless hours spent as a result of this election was never overlooked and to this I give God all of the glory. Effective immediately, I would like to initiate and make everyone aware of my “Open Door” policy. It is with synergistic fashion that I along with the elected and appointed leadership will work to enhance the collegiate experience of the student body.
Corbrin D. Burton
70th SGA President Student Government Association Texas Southern University 2
JUDICIAL BRANCH
Student Services Directory Dean of Students
713-313-1038
Judicial Affairs
713-313-7956
Police Department
713-313-7000
Student Health Center
713-313-7173
Counseling Center
713-313-7804
Disability Services
713-313-7691
Crisis Center Hotline
713-HOT-LINE
WELCOME TO TIGERLAND
Navigating your first year in college can be a breeze if you stick to the basics. The TSU Herald Staff compiled this primer especially for you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS EDITORIAL STAFF Todd Travon Rogers EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jonathan Scroggins MANAGING EDITOR Ally Banks OPINIONS EDITOR Paige Hubbard CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR Nicole Tall LIFE & STYLE EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tasha Poullard Aswad Walker PHOTOGRAPHERS Jade Horton Josie Deese Akayla Harris GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Photo by Josie Deese
FEATURES An Elevated Conversation
Ally Banks interviews 70th SGA President Corbrin Burton, who reveals the state of the student body.
“What I Wish I Knew”
First year tips from current SGA administration.
A Freshman Focus
Incoming freshmen share their accounts of the summer in anticipation for the new school year.
Roommate Etiquette
Six helpful tips on how to get along with your roommate.
CAMPUS LIFE Communication Master
Melinda Spaulding, former FOX 26 news broadcaster joins university faculty.
HBCU BUZZ
NBA star donates $100,000 to TSU Scholarship Fund
The Divine Nine
A short primer on the first Black fraternity and sorority.
ART & CULTURE Biggers & Better
Art students revitalize the tradition of mural-making started by John Biggers.
OPINIONS
Tiyosha Turner PUBLICATIONS MANAGER
The Antebellum South Revisted
Columnist Tasha Pollard explores the distinct similarities between the slave dogs of the past and the police dogs of today.
MORE LIFE
FOLLOW US instagram.com/thetsuherald facebook.com/thetsuherald twitter.com/thetsuherald
New Student Orientation
SGA hosts student leadership panel during NSO sessions.
THE TSU HERALD IS LOOKING FOR DEDICATED WRITERS AND CONTRIBUTORS GRAPHIC DESIGNERS PHOTOGRAPHERS
The TSU Herald is published by the students of Texas Southern University. Opinions expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration. The newspaper is printed biweekly, except during holidays and examination periods.
For additional information, call (713) 313-6710 3
EDITORS NOTE
MORE FEATURES
15 QUESTIONS FRESHMEN EDITION 1. Where do I go to get my Tiger ID Card?
Beat the Freshmen Fifteen
There’s nothing to be worried about. Just get involved in the rec center.
2. What is the first event to go to this year?
Campus Decorum
Maximize your collegiate wardrobe with these tips.
3. Can I park my car anywhere on campus? 4. Where are the best places to eat on campus?
SEND YOUR LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
5. Is Texas Southern the best place for law school?
tsu.heraldeditor@gmail.com
Entertainment
6. Why doesn’t TSU have a real nursing program?
Summer 2017 Playlist
What were Tigers listening to over the summer?
7. Is there a daycare available for students with children?
Nothing Like the Movies
The Herald Staff compares the HBCU experience at TSU with the fictional portrayal of college life in films like Spike Lee’s, ‘School Daze’.
Sports Labor Day Classic
TSU versus Prairie View A&M is a tradition that’s been celebrated by both institutions since 1985.
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY BOOKSTORE
FLASH SALE 50% off Clearance
September 7, 2017 4
8. Why dont they sell ice cream at Chick-fil-A?
GREETINGS TIGERS
Welcome to Tiger Land! My hope with the premiere edition of the TSU Herald is that incoming students have an idea of Texas Southern University’s current social climate – from the controversial SGA elections last spring to this summer’s transition with the SOS Program, New Student Orientation, and changes in administration. Longtime readers may notice distinctive changes in our publication. The goal of the TSU Herald staff this year is to create a new streamlined product that will set the standard for student publications for the next five years.
I plan to expand the current publication to include a new magazine format that will be published twice a semester and a digital platform where original student produced content will be published. This year the TSU Herald will also host informative events for students like our six-part ‘Meet the Press’ series and hope that the student body is receptive to the series in the upcoming months.
9. Why do some students get work-study and some don’t? 10. What’s the fastest way to get around campus in this heat? 11. What’s the point of new student orientation? 12. How soon can I sign up to be in organizations? 13. Why are freshmen required to stay in University Towers?
Be on the lookout for the first episode of ‘Checks and Balances’ with Ally Banks to be released after Freshmen Rock the House.
14. When is Homecoming this year?
Todd Travon Rogers 70th Editor-in-Chief
FAQs will be answered in the next issue of the TSU Herald.
15. Can TSU get a food court like the one at UH?
CONTRIBUTORS
How to Survive
Homecoming
Sunday usually kicks off the the week of Homecoming with worship service at Wheeler Ave. Baptist Church followed by brunch and the popular Gospel Explosion. The rest of the week is always planned for the enjoyment of the student body with popular events such as the Comedy Show, that featured DC Young Fly in the past and student appreciation day, where students are served lunch by the faculty and staff.
HOMECOMING STUDENT STEERING COMMITTEE Join the Tiger Dynasty by volunteering. FOLLOW US @txsuhc17 The main highlights of Homecoming are Coronation, the Yard Fest, the Greek step show, and Homecoming concert. Don’t miss overnight tailgating, the parade on Saturday, of course, the game versus Alabama State University.
Contributors this Issue
ALLY BANKS
JOSIE DEESE
TASHA POULLARD
JONATHAN SCROGGINS
ALLY BANKS is a senior with political aspirations. She has written for the TSU Herald for two years and is currently developing digital content for our website. The first being “Checks & Balances” a political access show.
Junior JOSIE DEESE is a freelance photographer studying Entertainment and Recording Management in the School of Communication. She has contributed to multiple photo sessions over the summer including pictures for the Tiger Yearbook.
TASHA POULLARD is a US military veteran and Junior studying Theatre. She’s previously done work with KTSU 90.9 FM Radio and contributes to the TSU Herald as an opinions columnist and Arts & Culture reporter.
Our executive producer wears many hats - from working behind the camera to staff management. JONATHAN SCROGGINS is a Radio Television Film major and has contributed to the music portion of the first issue.
Political Host
Freelance Photographer
Contributing Writer
Executive Producer
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CAMPUS LIFE
An Introduction to Greek Life by Ally Banks Black Greek-letter organizations often referred to as the Divine Nine (D9) play a significant role in the lives of young African-Americans in higher education.
Houston Rocket James Harden Donates $100,000 to Texas Southern University Article courtesy of www.hbcubuzz.com HOUSTON - NBA superstar James Harden is uniquely identified by his long flowing beard and herky-jerky game that has made him one of the game’s best shooting guards.
At Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Greek culture has influenced campus life, social life, communities, networking, and friendships. The D9 references the nine largest fraternities and sororities founded between 1906 and 1963 catering to African-American men and women. They are Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.; Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.; Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.; and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. All nine make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) that was founded May 10, 1930 at Howard University. The first Black fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, was founded in 1906 at Cornell University in New York, a predominately white institution (PWI). According to Alpha Phi Alpha’s official website, the fraternity initially served as a study and support group for minority students who faced racial prejudice, both educationally and socially, at Cornell. The first Black sorority...
CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
Visit SSLC 215 for more info 6
You can now add HBCU donor to his resume. The NBA Live 18 cover boy recently donated $100,000 to Texas Southern University that is expected to be earmarked for scholarships toward assisting students in financial need, FOX 26 Houston reported.
“Given the population of students that we serve come from what I consider to be one of the lowest socioeconomic backgrounds in the city, if not, the state or the country,” said TSU president Austin Lane.
FOR SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION Division of Student Services 2nd Floor of the Rec Center
Communication Master Famed broadcaster says farewell to 20 years at network to join the Tiger Family. Melinda Spaulding is saying farewell to Fox 26 after a very successful 13-yearrun with the station. Spaulding has become a household name and a staple for the Fox 26 news franchise since she came onboard in 2004.
Fox 26 released a statement that the long-time news veteran decided not to renew her contract, where she had been co-anchoring during their primetime air slots.
The New Jersey native and Emmy award-winning journalist will now be joining Texas Southern University, as the Vice President of Advancement per President Lane’s announcement earlier in July. The students are welcoming Spaulding with open arms and had quite an exciting reaction to the news -- saying they are happy to have her apart of the Tiger family. “It’s a good feeling to know that we have some fresh blood coming to our campus who embodies professionalism,” said Wesley Harris, President of the Debate Team.
“Melinda is a consummate professional and we thank her for her years of dedication. Although we are saddened to watch her go, the Fox 26 family is fortunate to have called her one of our own
and she will remain a part of our family. We wish her much happiness in the next chapter in her life,“ Fox 26 News Director Susan Schiller said. On August 18, the TSU Board of Regents confirmed Spaulding as the new Vice President of University Advancement. She has agreed to sit down with TSU Herald’s very own Campus Life Editor, Paige Hubbard in an interview to talk about advancing the university. Spaulding is a mother of two, who simply wants to spend more time at home with her family. She is also an HBCU graduate from Howard University, which means she can truly understand the culture of an HBCU and can embellish on her experiences.
Written by Paige Hubbard
s r e g g i B
r e t t e B &
ARTS & CULTURE
TOP SIX HBCU FILMS SCHOOL DAZE
(1988) – Spike Lee Spike Lee hit the nail on the head with his portrayal of an HBCU during the week of Homecoming. Similar to the fictional university in the film - from coronation to the parade and game - Homecoming is a serious event for TSU.
STOMP THE YARD
TSU Art Students Revive School’s Mural Tradition By Aswad Walker Contributing Writer
The moratorium on the painting of murals on campus that ended the long and proud tradition instituted by world renowned artist and founder of Texas Southern University’s Art Department, the late Dr. John Biggers, was recently rescinded. In search of artwork to give added life to TSU’s Recreation and Wellness Center, Iisha Voltz, director, looked to the University’s Art Department to partner with to produce some interesting murals. “Seeing that the Rec Center is a student-funded facility, what better way to showcase TSU art students and their skills than to have them produce something that will remain a fixture on this campus for decades,” said Voltz. To get the ball rolling, Voltz began asking whoever she
saw for leads on muralists. She was eventually directed to Jesse Sifuentes, a TSU art professor and instructor of the school’s mural painting class. “With the moratorium on murals, my students were just painting murals on canvas,” said Sifuentes, “Thank goodness for Ms. Voltz. When I told her I have a mural painting class who could help out, she said great. She gave us the opportunity and we jumped on it.”
each chose their wall for their future painting. The process that began in mid-January 2017 came to fruition by May, when the murals arrived and were mounted for all to see. “When the students arrived with their works, I felt amazing, very prideful; overall just happy. It was so great to see the finishing touches and how much creativity and talent we have on this campus,” said Voltz.
The students who produced the works are Derrick Brown, Nathaniel Donnett, Frederica Grant, Christopher Hicks, Robert Riojas, Isaiah Thomas and Faith Schwartz.
The legacy of impactful art started by Biggers and ceramicist Carroll Simms is being honored and continued by a new generation of artists growing in their greatness.
Voltz provided the students with the theme, a narrative of “Health and Wellness.” Once equipped with their charge, the students did a walk through of the Rec Center and
TAKE A LOOK AT THE LATEST ARTWORK On the 2nd Floor of the Rec
(2007) – Will Packer Every student has their journey and this film follows the main character as he navigates moving from Los Angeles to the south by getting involved in popular campus organizations.
DRUMLINE
(2002) – Charles Stone III The drumline in this film made waves, but they have nothing on the TSU Ocean of Soul Marching Band.
BURNING SANDS
(2017) – Gerard McMurray
Although the topic is controversial, Greek Life is one of the most talked about topics at TSU. This film aims to show the reality of the pledging process.
THE GREAT DEBATERS
(2007) – Denzel Washington Although Denzel Washington portrayed an inpirational debate instructor, I’m sure many students here will agree - he has nothing on TSU’s own Dr. Thomas Freeman.
HIGHER LEARNING
(1995) – John Singleton The beauty of going off to college is being immersed in and dealing with other cultures. At TSU you’ll learn to deal with people’s differences.
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A Freshman Focus
FIFTEEN LBS?
GET ACTIVE, GET INTO SHAPE
By Ally Banks Opinions Editor
VISIT THE RECREATION AND WELLNESS CENTER TODAY 713-313-6885 can freshmen gained slightly less than nine pounds, but this is just a legend with nothing true about it. Freshman who are concerned about the “Freshman Fifteen” become concerned about gaining 15 pounds and are more likely to think about their weight, have poor body image, and see themselves as being overweight.
Photo courtesy of www.tsu.edu
The legend of the “Freshman Fifteen” has scarred many college students. As much as 90 percent of college freshman surveyed are able to define the term.
In 1989, the concept of freshman weight gain during their first year of college was first introduced in a peer-reviewed article in Seventeen Magazine. The article reported that Ameri-
The reality is many students gain weight, however, most studies indicate that weight gain during the freshman year is far less than 15 pounds. Freshman women gain approximately five pounds, while freshman men gain roughly seven pounds. The transition or solution is to eat healthier or seek a better alternative.
TIGER VIEWS: A FRESHMAN FOCUS
What can you do to prevent the “Freshman Fifteen” myth from becoming a reality? The answer is to create small changes, such as initiating a fitness program. Some suggestions for initiating a fitness program include: creating a support group. Companions or close friends can serve as powerful motivators and will hold accountability for the progress made. Another suggestion is to set personal goals. By setting realistic short-term goals and long-term goals for yourself, progression towards and accomplishment of health and fitness goals can be wonderful means of motivation.
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What is your favorite thing about TSU so far?
The TSU Herald wants to hear from you. Send your responses to tsu.heraldeditor@gmail.com
Chasity Palmer
William Glenn
Savannah Brown
Jabrea Clay
Pre-Pharmacy
Business Administration
Business Administration
Pre-Nursing
@monaee.babyy
@xkglennx
@__micro
“My favorite part has been the study groups because they are so diverse. I’m looking forward to meeting new people and learning about my HBCU.”
“I like the culture at Texas Southern University. I’m looking forward to having a great experience.”
“I’m loving the food. I love the burgers and fries. I probably won’t get tired of the cafeteria food because they’ve been switching it up.”
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@dollfacebreaa
“I love staying in the dorms because its preparing me for living on my own in the real world.”
A Freshman Focus ROOMIES! Let me tell you something. In Houston when it rains, it pours! The weather isn’t the only thing that sucks. Sometimes living with someone you don’t get along with can be a buzz kill too. New city, new me…right? Seriously, college life can bring about new experiences and friends, and often times a new roommate. Living with someone new doesn’t have to be difficult, but having roommate etiquette can make all the difference. COMMUNICATION: Communication rules the nation. ● Discuss likes and dislikes when you first move in. ● Discuss what items will be shared with the house. ● Talk with your roommates about guests, music levels, and other things that can get noisy to avoid disagreements. ● Respect each others privacy and personal items. ● Discuss class and work schedules so they don’t interfere with one another’s time.
DECORUM:
Make the best first impression with these tips on what to wear around campus.
First impressions are everything and often times too many people will judge you based off your appearance before they even reach out to shake your hand. This is why it is so important to dress for success my fellow Tigers! Dressing well has been proven to boost self-confidence while portraying a message to the world that you take pride in your self-image and want to be respected. According to an article in Forbes, dressing well potentially heightens your social status, which could lead to meeting new people who can take you to higher places. Whether you are hunting for a job, or wanting to make a good impression on campus the perks of being well dressed has many positive outcomes. When you look sharp people receive your energy and feed into
that. This discussion isn’t limited to only to the professional world, but in all aspects of life - the way you dress plays a major role in how people interact with you and vice versa. Imagine your crush spots you out and you’re not dressed your best, you wave at him or her, and do not receive the response you anticipated. Now imagine the same scenario; this time you are in your Sunday’s best and the reaction is totally different. It’s because of the way you are dressed. You know the saying “never judge a book by its cover”, but if it’s a really attractive cover – it may get noticed first and have a better outcome than a book with an ugly cover. Overall the importance of dressing well is good for the soul. Hopefully these few tips will have you strolling down the Tiger Walk in style.
FRESHMEN CLASS NEEDS OFFICERS
GET INVOLVED IN STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
RESTROOM: Living with someone means you might have to share a bathroom. Cleaning up behind yourself is courteous and let’s be real…we are all adulting here. Practice makes perfect, and as young adults we need to handle our business. ● Put away laundry and other personal items after use. ● Discuss tissue, soaps, laundry towels and mats since the area is shared. ● Clean counters, tubs, and toilets after use. ● Discuss class and work schedules so they don’t interfere with one another’s time. KITCHEN: Although you may only share a bathroom with one person, if you live on campus you could possibly be sharing your kitchen with three people. ● Be conscious when buying groceries and remember others may need space in the freezer and pantry spaces. ● If you and your roommates decide to share grocery expenses, be sure to contribute as much as you consume. ● Dishes should be cleaned after you use them and all food/trash thrown out when finished. LIVING AREA: Someone once told me, “You ain’t gotta go home, but you gotta get up out of here!” Make sure all your guests know they do have to go home, because you do have roommates who cherish sleep. ● Be mindful of your roommates and their time. ● Be respectful of your roommates’ guests and everyone’s personal space. ● Be courteous of noise levels.
Set boundaries with your roommates, be respectful, and communicate and you and your roommate could end up being life long friends. NICOLE TALL 9
Elevation Administration
THE STATE OF THE STUDENT BODY:
A Candid Conversation with 70th SGA President Corbrin Burton on Spring Elections, The Elevation Party & The Class of 2021 By Todd Travon Rogers Editor-in-Chief In a recent sit down interview with the TSU Herald’s opinions editor, Ally Banks, the 70th Student Government Association President gave insight into his views as a man and student leader on the campus of Texas Southern University. Reaching one of the highest positions available for student involvement, Corbrin Burton did not always have a success plan, but has managed to garner the support from administration and staff to help achieve his goal of becoming president of the student body. Burton says he has formed great relationships with administration including the University President Austin Lane, Dean of Students Dr. Raphael Moffett, and Kavaris Sims – the new Director of Student Activities. When asked about the controversy revolving around the Spring 2017 elections,
Photo by Josie Deese
Student Government Association President Corbrin “Cornbread” Burton pictured with the TSU Herald’s Ally Banks during the taping of “Checks and Balances” on August 2, 2017 in Sawyer Auditorium. Burton says he blew doors off the competition – beating his opponent by 299 votes. The current president’s victory did not come easy. Burton was tested with rumors about his true character and endured several hidden student court cases to recall the votes of the election. During the taping of “Checks and Balances”, Burton did not shy away from the tough questions either. When asked about rumors concerning homophobia and misogyny within the Elevation Administration, the Student Government President answered bluntly.
“I want the student body to know that I support whomever and I mean that.”
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“I just want my name to be cleared because I want the student body to know that I support whomever - and I mean that,” Burton said.
Burton says he’s going to let his character speak for itself.
Programs Council (UPC), where he served as publicity chair.
“Everyone knows that I love the students, I love TSU, and I’m going to do everything its takes to get TSU to move forward,” Burton said.
He then moved from the social programming arm of student services to the governing body where he was elected Internal Vice-President during the 2016-2017 school year.
Beyond the elections, Burton says his goal is to secure job opportunities for senior students. “I want to make sure every senior knows where they’re going when they graduate – not the month after,” Burton said. Burton is a senior Health Administration major from Dallas, Texas. Originally from Longview, he came to Texas Southern University with sports aspirations, but quickly took a more social route by becoming involved in numerous organizations such as the University
By forming bonds with other leaders and making student focused events a priority, Burton entered himself in the running as top candidate for the executive position of SGA. In his first 100 days, Burton has plans to initiate an ‘open door policy’ for students effective immediately.
SGA Executive Offices President’s Office SSLC 210
An Elevated Conversation WHAT I WISH I KNEW MY FRESHMAN YEAR The SGA Executive Cabinet share their first year experiences as freshmen.
KAELIN NORRIS, Senior Executive Vice-President Radio, Television, Film
ZETRIK MARVES, Senior External Vice-President Administration of Justice
MELVIN ANDERSON Radio, Television, Film SGA Comptroller
ROBELL TOCRUARY SGA Senate Chair Graduate
“As a freshman, I wish I had been more social and attended events on campus. I also wish I would have taken advantage of scholarships and not take out as many loans.”
“I wish I knew that the ‘freshmen fifteen’ is real. Be sure to stay active and healthy along with taking care of your classes. ”
“Naps are the key to survival. Don’t feel lazy when you want to nap because college schedules are hectic and tiring. We need our beauty sleep.”
TRAMAUNI BROCK Miss Texas Southern Pharmacy
CHAD ZENO Mr. Texas Southern Respiratory Therapy
“I wish I knew the power of determination and that nothing lasts forever. When I was a freshman, all I wanted to do was be Miss TSU. I didn’t think it could happen, but it did.”
“I wish I knew to get involved and network because meeting new people opened doors for me and helped me find the best resources here on campus.”
“I wish I knew exactly how important getting involved should be for freshmen. It would have made my transition from high school much easier.”
SIDNEY GUILLORY Executive Secretary Pre-Pharmacy
ARIA JOHNSON, Senior Internal Vice-President Biology + Chemistry “My freshmen year flew by so fast. I wish I took the time to enjoy it. You only get one freshman experience, so take advantage of your resources.”
“I wish I knew that college isn’t a race. Mental health is more important than overloading yourself on classes. Be sure to get enough sleep throughout the day.”
Checks & Balances
with Ally Banks
COMING THIS FALL
“A Candid Conversation with Corbrin Burton” ON THE HERALD DIGITAL 11
MORE LIFE Alpha Kappa Alpha, was founded in 1908 at Howard University in Washington D.C. During this time, founder Ethel Hedgeman Lyle thought it was necessary to connect the most prominent and educated women at the university. Alpha Kappa Alpha was the first sorority that sparked a movement and paved the way for the other three sororities of the future D9. Greek Life is a huge part of the culture here at Texas Southern University. It’s actually pretty hard to come across a staff member, who isn’t a part of a Greek organization. As you can see from the brightly painted trees along each side of the Tiger Walk, the Divine Nine roots are deeply planted in the history of TSU. Student leaders, as well as, members of the University Program Council, created The Point after the university’s previous administration, led by Dr. Rudley tried to remove the visual Greek representation from the University completely. Rudley’s administration stripped away decades of TSU history with the removal of the Greek trees. Fortunately, the trees have now been repainted thanks to current university president Dr. Austin Lane. This now gives the campus two areas to showcase the TSU Greek organizations. Each fraternity and sorority has his or her own rich history, which each can attest to and add to the history of the Divine Nine overall. While shade is often an underlying tone, the Divine Nine have taken one giant step in accomplishing unity throughout the Black community.
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OPERATION: New Student Orientation By Paige Hubbard Campus Life Editor
The
Herald staff was out and about at the New Student Orientation seminar mixing and mingling with the incoming freshmen, to find out what they like and dislike so far about the university. In efforts to cultivate a progressive environment we passed out surveys to find out some key information amongst other things. The Class of 2021 is liberal and didn’t mind telling us what was exactly on their minds. Some of them were focused on the parties and the fun, while others actually looked forward to pursuing their careers. The university also invited current students to pass back their tokens of success and encourage students to enjoy their college experience. “So far I am really enjoying my time here, the people are really nice and helpful and I’m looking forward to having a very successful semester,” said business major Samika Knight. Since 2012 there have been an average of slightly more than 1,300 first time freshmen starting each fall semester. About 45% of those students are first generation students and 10% require developmental education.
“Today is not only about me, it’s a dream come true for my parents” “Today is not only about me, it’s a dream come true for my parents who were not able to finish college because they had me at such an early age,” freshman Jessica Garcia said. “They are happy to
see their baby girl pick up the baton and accomplish something they had hoped for.” This time was an opportunity to share some wisdom with the incoming students and to be fearless in the pursuit of what sets their hearts on fire. New students expressed their excitement being in a new environment, meeting new people and cultivating new experiences. Speakers advocated the importance of having balance along with a resilient attitude no matter what obstacles they may encounter.
“I specifically came to TSU to get an HBCU experience, and today I can honestly say the university has given me so much more...” “It was a refreshing moment to see these young students where I was just four years ago, it seems like it was yesterday when I specifically came TSU to get an HBCU experience, and today I can honestly say the university has given me so much more,” graduating biology major Marcus Johnson said.
(Continued on next page)
ENTERTAINMENT Clockwise from bottom left page: Corbrin “Cornbread” Burton welcomes incoming freshmen to the student leadership panel, Homecoming Committee members Jordan Stanley and Josie Deese standby during panel, incoming freshmen participate in icebreakers.
SUMMER M U S I C P L AY L I S T
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT OUR SUMMER TOP PICKS IN MUSIC? From music contributors Jonathan Scroggins & Josie Deese
GRATEFUL DJ Khaled EPIC/SONY June 23, 2017 DJ Khaled’s tenth album debuted at number one on the Billboard charts – receiving generally favorable reviews. “Shining” featuring Jay-Z and Beyonce served as the opening single, while ‘Wild Thoughts’ can easily be voted song of the summer.
In order to develop comprehensive freshmen year experiences that ensure student success, an Advising Task Force consisting of faculty and staff from across campus was assembled to develop an advising strategy. The Task Force defined advising at TSU as “a shared responsibility between student and advisor that helps facilitate the successful completion of a student’s educational and career goals. The most efficient, effective, and proven way to carry out this strategy is to establish a comprehensive, mandatory course, led by advisors, who intrusively facilitate their students with setting realistic career goals, developing strategic academic plans, assimilating effectively into the campus culture by being active in the university environment, and utilizing learning strategies designed for student success. Eight Enrollment and Completion Advisors have been hired to lead this effort and will teach the course. The 16-week course will also expose students with tools to successfully navigate the college experience starting
with the rich history and legacy of the University to give them a sense of TSU pride. Learning outcomes for the course have been defined and each student’s progress will be monitored to continuously improve advisor and advising strategies. Semester results will be shared with the Advising Task Force for monitoring and evaluation. This university will equip you with the proper recourses and tools to be the best you can be professionally and personally. We hope that you all thrive in all your endeavors this semester and remember to stay grounded no matter what hurdles you have to jump. Here at TSU our motto is “Excellence in Achievement” and we know you all will fall nothing short of just that.
“Excellence in Achievement” Photos courtesy of Jade Horton
4:44 Jay-Z ROC NATION June 30, 2017 For his 13th studio album, the rap mogul finally gets personal rapping about his infidelity, insecurities, and love for his family. On the standout track of this album “The Story of O.J.” he raps about the pitfalls of wasting money and later building generational wealth.
CTRL SZA TDE June 9, 2017 SZA’s debut album set Black Twitter on fire. Houston artist Travis Scott was featured on her summer single, ‘Love Galore’ followed by ‘The Weekend,’ which sparked conversation about having side relationships.
PRETTY GIRLS LOVE TRAP MUSIC 2 Chainz UNIVERSAL June 16, 2017 2 Chainz solidified himself as one of the most consistent in the game with his latest album P.G.L.T.M. This was a solid effort by the artist formerly known as Titty Boi.
13
SLAVE DOGS: Past and Present
Slavery Dogs Past and Present: The Antebellum South Revisited By Tasha Poullard Contributing Writer
O
ver the past few months, I’ve found that I’m being dragged into some very lively debates online with my White brothers and sisters in regards to ‘Backing The Blue’. I personally always wonder what do they really mean when professing a stanch support of law-enforcement, while completely rejecting their malicious origins.
Upon conversation, some of them were cool with the explanations I gave in regards to my strong opposition of police brutality, yet still demonstrating a peaceful support of officers who actually do their jobs. For example, when I spoke of the “ghost skins” infiltrating law enforcement, they agreed with me that some are not good characters. But when I started to speak upon the sick mentality of some (not all) law enforcement officers who chose to incorporate the vicious use of police dogs upon people of color, that’s where they drew the line. As avid dog 14
lovers, contributors to the national ASPCA and even supporters of PEDA, they begged that I not bring their beloved canine companions into a candid conversation on racism. As one brother told me, “They’re dogs, they know nothing of racism”. One young woman asked me, “Why are we even talking about dogs and the police? What do dogs have to do with any brand of police brutality as it pertains to our community?” Because she didn’t understand why I was mentioning the most recent instances pertaining to police allowing their K-9’s to attack potential ‘suspects’ during apprehension. In order to make sure the younger generation understand what we’re witnessing in present tense, I will have to give you a brief understanding of how today’s K-9 tactics are identical to past methods used to keep people of color in their place.
Slave Catchers The enslaved Black population was often forced to fear for their lives from slave masters, slave catchers and most importantly trained and aggressive dogs when escaping bondage, due to the fact that hounds were often used in pursuit of fugitive slaves. Several former slaves that were interviewed in the 1930’s reiterated the fact that the use of trained dogs was of most concerns for life and well-being when fleeing to safety. As former slaves claimed that masters, patrollers or professional slave catchers would incorporate the use of savage dogs, trained to hunt and follow the track of the poor colored fugitive.
In one story he demonstrates pride in how the dogs nearly ate the legs off one slave, almost killing him. Once slave masters and catchers realized the effectiveness of the dogs, they soon became synonymous with slave control. And slave masters and catchers would use dogs to maul and murder runaways upon discovery. Thus dogs have always played a significant role in the oppressive regime of slavery. All the way into the Civil Rights Movement, dogs have been an intricate part in Black male castration, were the legs of Black men were held apart and dogs were allowed to chew on the male genitals. Black women and children were often fed to dogs that were trained to consume human flesh.
Bennette H. Barrow, a slaveholder from Louisiana, kept a detailed diary that frequently mentioned the importance of incorporating vicious dogs into various methods used during the
Modern Day Slaving
capturing of runaway slaves. He relives the terrible violence the dogs inflicted when telling stories of cornering runaways with dogs.
ing that a police officer ordered his canine to attack him without provocation, leading the dog to bite into his groin area and severing his
Speaking of castration, back in 2011, 25-year-old Cody Melancon sued the Gretna Police Department by stat-
OPINION
penis. This left him sexually dysfunctional, and facing several painful sessions of neurosurgery with the hopes of restoring full usage. The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in New Orleans, and names the police department, Chief Arthur Lawson, Officer Joseph Mekdessie and Officer Roland Kindell. It alleges the police falsified reports to cover up their actions and violated Melancon’s constitutional rights to due process and to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. The lawsuit stems from an incident that took place in May of 2011, when Gretna police went to his Monroe Street Crescent City apartment to arrest Melancon on charges he kicked in someone’s front door and hit an occupant. Although he initially tried to hide in the apartment from the officers, he surrendered upon hearing a cop threaten to release the dog inside. He says he knelt on the ceramic tile floor of his small living room and locked his fingers behind his head, when Mekdessie trumped up an altercation and let his dog “Zin” go.
It featured local police dogs being allowed to literally chew the face of an unarmed Black man, later identified as 32-year-old Philip White, while he lay curled up on the ground. The article states that a local television station with access to police radio transmissions reported the police were responding to a report of a disorderly person, who was screaming and yelling. Multiple officers arrived on the scene requesting for back-up, when one of the officer’s radios in that White was allegedly reaching for his service weapon. The officer was overheard saying “Slow units down, subject under apprehension. Tried to disarm me”. According to Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae, “White was handcuffed and restrained… White was placed in an emergency vehicle to be transported to the hospital. But at some point during the transport, White become unresponsive”.
“I don’t have any sensation down there; I can’t get an erection; I’m 25 years of age...”
White was being transported to the local hospital for respiratory distress. And despite efforts to revive him he expired. But cell phone footage taken from the incident shows the police approaching the person recording the incident and saying “I need your information and I’m going to need to take your phone.” It is currently illegal to film police interactions in the state of New Jersey.
Blogger James Joiner of the ‘Daily Beast’ did a story back in April of this year that highlighted video footage taken in Vineland, New Jersey.
The disturbing video footage captures a police dog chewing and gnawing on the face and upper torso of White, who’s visibly in distress and
“I don’t have any sensation down there; I can’t get an erection; I’m 25 years of age,” Melacon stated.
WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY? Send you responses to tsu.heraldeditor@gmail.com
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY lethargic while on the ground. This was the second death involving police in Cumberland County since the previous December. Fast forward to July 12, 2017, when shocking video footage surfaced of yet another police K9 mauling a handcuffed suspect’s arm while a police officer unsuccessfully tried to pull it away. The man was arrested in San Diego, CA and was left with a large open wound after the dog pounced and sank its teeth into his forearm. Angel Nunez was the witness who captured the incident on his way to work, and posted the video to Facebook. One witness states that prior to the incident the suspect was having a peaceful conversation with the police, when out of nowhere the dog punched and forced the man to the ground. The man was heard screaming while the officer yells, “Give me your hand,” but never commands the dog to stop.
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