Truman State University tmn.truman.edu International students share stories from winter break Page 5
THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018 tmn.truman.edu
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Men’s swim team members hold University records Page 10
STEM Stoskopf begins as VPSA Truman gets NSF grant BY RYAN PIVONEY Staff Writer
Janna Stoskopf started as Truman State University’s new vice president for student affairs Jan. 11. Stoskopf previously served as assistant vice president and dean of student life at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota. She assumes the responsibilities of Lou Ann Gilchrist, who retired at the end of fall 2017. Stoskopf’s hiring was the result of an open search, the second process to fill the position after the first search during summer 2017 failed to do so. Stoskopf was selected by University President Sue Thomas and the VPSA Search Advisory Committee out of 19 candidates, said committee member Luis Ortiz. After the first attempt to find a new VPSA fell through, the committee was able to successfully narrow the pool down to two candidates with a second search, who were brought to campus. Ortiz said Stoskopf was more personable and well-qualified and took more of a student-first approach than the other candidate. Ortiz said the candidates were vetted on experience with crises, and Stoskopf stood out because of her experience with mental health and how much she focused on and valued it. Campus mental health is expected to be a priority in the near future. In a statement to TMN, Thomas said Stoskopf has relevant experience, is student-centered and made a terrific impression in her interview on campus. She said Stoskopf is to start by learning about the goals, operations and needs of different areas of student affairs. “She was the preferred candidate across all evaluations, and I am confident she will enhance the student
for scholarships BY DANA BARTCH Staff Writer
Photo by Lawrence Hu/TMN Janna Stoskopf speaks during her open forum at Truman State University in December before being hired as VPSA. experience and help to make Truman even better,” Thomas said in the statement. Stoskopf said her goal right now is to meet students, faculty and staff to better understand Truman life. “[Students] can expect openness and approachability,” Stoskopf said. “I like to go out and meet students where they are, but I also like them to feel comfortable coming in to visit me. They can expect a true student focus and a willingness to listen and collaborate on new ideas and hearing ways we can meet student needs better.” Stoskopf said she is not actively focusing on any one project just yet, but she said she hopes to get feedback from students in particular about where their needs are not sufficiently met.
Departments overseen by
Vice President for Student Affairs: Campus Recreation Career Center Citizenship & Community Standards Counseling Services Dining
Health Center & Disability Services Multicultural Affairs Residence Life Student Union & Student Activities
Truman State University’s Science Technology Egineering and Mathematics program has received a $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation, part of which will provide financial aid for students. The grant will be implemented May 1, 2018, with the goal of helping alleviate the financial burden of students pursuing degrees in the STEM program and further developing the program to ensure students are well-equipped. To qualify for a STEM scholarship, students must go through an application process after applying to Truman, have the intention of majoring in the STEM field and score above a threshold on the math section of the ACT. “[Forty percent of the grant] goes toward a designated academic adviser for those students to help them navigate their courses because we within this program also do something called intrusive advising just to help them when they don’t know they need help,” said Stephanie Maiden, co-principal investigator and assistant professor of biology. “It also gives money for students who are going to apply to grad school, gives them application money in some places.” In addition, Maiden said the portion of the grant not reserved for scholarships will also be put toward creating a series of required courses for students to take that are research-based seminars, providing workshops with speakers from specific fields and several other community building activities. The STEM program has received previous NSF support and several other grants through the STEM Talent Expansion Programs office but never to this extent. “The previous version of this program was only a $500,000 [grant], and it was a program that was just two years, so students got funding for their freshman and sophomore year,” said Barbara Kramer, lead principal investigator of the grant and professor of chemistry. “This one now is allowing us to give funding through the entire four years that a student is a part of the program.”
New printing system uses ID cards, queue In an email sent to students during winter break, Truman State University’s Information Technology Services announced the launch of a new printing system. The new system, Pcounter, will not only reduce paper waste by eliminating the need for a cover sheet, but also allows students to print from mobile devices. In addition, the system uses Truman student IDs and a queue so students can be sure they print to the correct device.
1.
Connect your device to the Pcounter Printing System. For Windows devices, type “\\pcounter\ masterqueue” in the search bar of the start menu and hit enter. Enter in “truman\” followed by your username — for example “truman\abc1234” and your TruView password. The master queue window will pop up and setup is complete. For Mac devices, open system preferences from the Apple menu. Open the “Printers and Scanners” menu. Click “+” to add a printer. An “Add Printer” screen will open. Click “Advanced.” In the type bar, select “Windows printer via spools.” In the URL, type “smb://pcounter/masterqueue.” Select “Generic PCL Printer” in the use dropdown menu. Click add. Check the Duplexer box. Setup is complete.
2.
Using your Truman ID card, touch the ID to the proximity reader installed on the printer. The printer will then print the job from the master queue. You can also print from Print Release stations in Pickler Memorial Library or Violette Hall 2001 if you don’t have your ID.
Rates for printing will remain the same. Standard black and white pages will cost 10 cents each, duplex black and white pages will cost 7 cents each and color pages will cost 50 cents each. Each student will still begin the semester with $25 of printing credit. VOLUME 109 ISSUE 15 © 2018
The Index
2
THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
Library gets modern updates
Photo by Allyson Lotz/TMN The new front service desk near the entrance to Pickler Memorial Library features a new large screen and consultation station. BY NICOLAS TELEP AND ALLYSON LOTZ News Editor and Webmaster During winter break, Pickler Memorial Library received an updated front service desk and multimedia lab. Janet Romine, associate dean of libraries for research and instruction, said the update of the circulation desk follows the replacement of the first floor computers last summer. “We kind of think of it as phase two of the lobby,” Romine said. Romine said the layout of the new desk allows staff to monitor their workflow and be more efficient, and includes a consultation station where patrons can sit down and ask have more in-depth questions answered by research and instruction librarians. Romine said the Learning Technologies Team, part of Information Technology Services, updated the multimedia lab after it was closed for the fall 2017 semester. She said the plans for the updates were finalized last fall, and work occurred between Dec. 18-21. Romine said the updates cost approximately $10,000, with all the funds coming from donors, not the library’s operating budget.
Photo by Nicolas Telep/TMN After closing for fall 2017 for updates, the second floor multimedia lab has re-opened.
Photo by Nicolas Telep/TMN The update to the front desk follows the replacement of computers on the other side of the lobby.
Photo by Nicolas Telep/TMN At the consultation station, patrons can ask librarians questions at the front desk.
staff Serving the University community since 1909 Editor-in-Chief Brently Snead Assistant Editor Johanna Burns News Editor (Text) Nicolas Telep Features Editor Rachel Fechter Sports Editor (Text) Rachel Steinhoff Sports Editor (Multimedia) Jeremy Jacob Copy Chief MacKenna Palazza Assistant Copy Chief Trevor Hamblin Photo Editor Bethany Travis Design Chief Mariah Radle
Distribution Manager Jessica Rose Staff Writers Jase Willhite, Ashley
Murphy, Kennedy Martin, Paul Province, Patrick Pardo, Stephanie Hulett, Brooke Bailey, Travis Maiden, Ryan Pivoney, Dana Bartch, Gordon McPherson, Justin Newton, Aura Martin Sales Manager Joey Iaguessa Copy Editors Molly Thal, Bethany Spitzmiller, Ellen Thibodeau, Allyson Lotz, Elise Hughes
Cartoonists Annie Kintree, August Davis Designers Georgia Gregory, Maddie
Kamp, Emmett Divendal, Emily Taylor, Kaitlyn Farmer Photographers Lawrence Hu, Athena Geldbach, Austin Dellamano, Daniel Degenhardt, Hannah Ahlenius, Samantha Garrett Distribution Representatives Greta Roettegen, Amanda Claywell Adviser Don Krause
3
THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
BY BRENTLY SNEAD Editor-in-Chief Welcome back! First and foremost, let’s get introductions out of the way. I’m a junior communication major who spends far too much time in the newsroom. I have a husband and a young child, and they are kind of awesome. I spend a lot of time reading, watching TV and procrastinating. After nearly three years of working for Truman Media Network, Barnett Hall feels like a second home to me. I have spent a lot of hours writing, editing and designing. Yet today, when I walked into this office, it felt different. I’m going to be vulnerable here and let you in on a little secret — being editor-in-chief is rather intimidating, especially when it’s happening halfway through the school year. I feel like former editor-in-chief Seth Wolfmeyer should walk through that newsroom door at any time and tell me what the week ahead should look like. But instead, here I am. Even with Seth gone, it is my personal intent to move forward with all the goals he and I set at the beginning of the year. I want our readers to know two things. One, I am committed to making this paper the best it can be, and I know all of my staff members feel similarly. We often work long hours to bring the most up-to-date news to you, and we don’t plan on changing that. Second, and perhaps the more difficult task, I promise accuracy despite our imperfections and the fact that this organization is a learning opportunity. I promise that we will provide news for Truman State University in a way that no other media can. As I said, we are not perfect, but accuracy will always be a top priority, even when it means printing corrections for the sake of keeping the public well informed. It is my hope that The Index continues to grow and that each week we are informative and have an impact on your week. After all, that’s why we’re all here.
[ Our View ]
Be prepared for winter weather conditions Students returned to campus this week to find Kirksville covered in a blanket of fresh snow, and they suffered through below freezing temperatures — perhaps not the most uplifting of environments to start the semester. It can be tempting anytime the thermometer drops to curl up with a blanket and cup of tea or simply sleep the days away. But whether or not you’re dreaming of sunny beaches right now, winter weather is a reality we all have to face. We, The Index Editorial Board, want to encourage students, faculty and the Kirksville community to find ways to enjoy these cold winter months while always being mindful of the potential for dangerous conditions. With that in mind, we have compiled a few tips for staying safe and warm this winter. The most basic guideline is to strategically dress in layers and stay dry. Generally your innermost layer should consist of fabrics that hold in body heat but don’t absorb moisture such as wool, silk or polypropylene rather than cotton. Your second layer acts as insulation against the cold and keeps your body heat from escaping, so you should try natural fibers like a fleece jacket. The outermost layer should be water and wind resistant to help protect you from the elements. The tighter the fabric is woven, the warmer you’ll be. Invest in thick socks and insulated boots with good traction. Even if you wear 10 layers, slipping and falling on packed ice could put you in the hospital with a broken bone. You should also wear a good winter hat that covers your ears and a scarf or muffler that you could pull over your mouth so you aren’t breathing in the cold air. Wear insulated gloves, or better yet follow the layers rule and
wear gloves inside a pair of mittens. The more exposed skin you have, the greater the possibility for frostbite. Be smart about exertion in the wintertime. Cold weather causes extra strain on the heart, so if you plan on working outside make sure to dress warmly and work slowly. Take frequent breaks to warm up inside. If you do get wet, remove the wet articles of clothing as soon as possible. Remember, your body’s working overtime to keep you warm. And don’t forget to fuel your body. Eating wellbalanced meals helps your body efficiently use energy to keep you warm. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can actually cause you to lose body heat faster. Stick to uncaffeinateddrinks to warm you up. It’s a good idea to prepare your home, office or apartment for cold weather, as well. You never know when a blizzard might blow in and leave you stranded inside. One of the biggest struggles when it’s this cold is keeping pipes from freezing. The best thing to do is keep your thermostat at a warmer temperature. It can be tempting to try and save money by lowering the thermostat during the night or during any extended absences, but this leaves you with the risk of coming home to frozen and possibly busted water pipes. If you know the forecast is calling for colder temperatures, bump that thermostat up a degree or two. If you experience a power outage during a storm, leave the taps on because running water will help prevent freezing. It’s also a good idea to stock up on bottled water in case your pipes do freeze, or if a winter storm leaves you stuck inside without power. For that matter, you should also keep some nonperish-
able foods in your pantry. Ice storms and powerful winds can knock out power lines and cell service. Keep a battery-operated radio in your home so you can monitor emergency alerts. If you’re using a space heater to heat your room or office, remember the 3 feet rule — keep 3 feet between your heater and any walls or flammable materials. Never leave your space heater unattended. Keep your house warm by closing off unused rooms and closing the curtains. If you don’t have drapes, try draping a blanket over the windows. If you haven’t already, take your car into a mechanic to be winterized. Double check fluid levels, brakes, tires and your battery to ensure your car is equipped to handle the weather. Put together an emergency kit you can leave in your trunk or backseat in case you become stranded. When road conditions are icy, the best thing to do is stay home. But if you do have to travel, be patient and smart. Give yourself plenty of time to warm up your car and to get to your destination. Never pour hot water on your windshield to melt ice or snow because you then risk shattering the glass. The old adage “better safe than sorry” holds true. Rushing in snowy conditions not only puts you in danger but also other drivers. Be patient with the state, city and private individuals in charge of clearing streets. Often times, they’re the first to brave the streets, getting up before daylight hours to make sure the roads are safe, but there’s only so much they can do. When traveling, make sure you avoid slamming on the brakes as that can cause you to spin out and is a sign you were going too fast. When you get behind the wheel, you’re responsible for your own safety.
EDITORIAL POLICY: The Index is published Thursdays during the academic year by students at Truman State University, Kirksville, MO 63501. The production offices are located in Barnett Hall 1200. We can be reached by phone at 660-785-4449. The Index is a designated public forum, and content of The Index is the responsibility of The Index staff. The editor-in-chief consults with the staff and adviser but ultimately is responsible for all decisions. Opinions of The Index columnists are not necessarily representative of the opinions of the staff or the newspaper. Our View editorials represent the view of the Editorial Board through a two-thirds majority vote. The Editorial Board consists of the editor-in-chief, managing editor, section editors, copy chief and assistant copy chief. The Index reserves the right to edit submitted material because of space limitations, repetitive subject matter, libelous content or any other reason the editor-in-chief deems appropriate. Submitted material includes advertisements and letters to the editor. LETTER POLICY: The Index welcomes letters to the editor from the University and Kirksville community. Letters to the editor are due by noon the Sunday before publication and become property of The Index upon submission. Once submitted, the letter is subject to editing for grammar, punctuation and spelling errors. Submissions must contain a well-developed theme and cannot exceed 500 words, except at the discretion of the opinions editor and/or editor-inchief. The Index suggests that submissions be written about current events or public issues that need to be brought forth, and should offer a valid argument. Submission does not guarantee publication, especially when submissions fail to add something to the current discussion. Letters containing personal attacks, libelous attacks or inaccurate information will not be published. All letters to the editor must be typed and submitted by email to index.opinionseditor@gmail.com. Include the words “letter to the editor” in the subject line of the email. Letters which are not submitted digitally will be taken into consideration.
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VOLUME 109
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The Index
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
calendar Global Issues Colloquium: “Bending the Arc”
Welcome Back Comedian: Kiry Shabazz
Spring 2018 Activities Fair
Game of Thrones Trivia
Baldwin Hall Little Theater
Baldwin Auditorium
Student Union Building
Student Union Building Georgian Rooms
Thursday, Jan. 18 7-9 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 19 7-8 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 24 2-6 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 26 7-9 p.m.
The January edition of the monthly Global Issues Colloquium will feature a screening of the 2017 documentary “Bending the Arc.” The documentary follows three doctors — Paul Farmer, Jim Yong Kim and Ophelia Dahl — who start humanitarian work in rural Haiti which grows into a worldwide campaign for universal health care.
Kiry Shabazz will perform as the Welcome Back Comedian, presented by the Student Activities Board. Shabazz has won multiple comedy competitions, including the Rooster T. Feathers Comedy Competition, the World Series of Comedy Competition, and the 14th annual StandUp NBC. The event is free for students.
The Activities Fair will be hosted in various locations throughout the Student Union Building. All students are welcome to explore and learn more about various on-campus and off-campus organizations. Organizations must register for a table at the Activities Fair. Registration is done on a first come, first served basis, with on-campus organizations given priority.
The Student Activities Board will host a Game of Thrones trivia tournament for teams of 3-5 players each. The top three teams will receive prizes. Refreshments will be available.
NEWS IN BRIEF New exhibits at University Art Gallery running through March
Lyceum Series continues with Beatles tribute tand
Political exhibit on display at Pickler Memorial Library
Two new exhibits will be on display beginning Thursday, Jan. 25 in the Truman State University Art Gallery. The two exhibits, “Double Life: Fifteen Years” by Kelli Connell and “Counter Movements” by Janna Añonuevo Langholz, will be on display through March 2. The University Art Gallery is located in Ophelia Parrish 1114. The Gallery will host an opening reception for the exhibits 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26. The University Art Gallery is open Monday through Saturday and closed on school holidays.
The third performance of the 2017-2018 Kohlenberg Lyceum Series Season will happen Saturday, Jan. 27. The Liverpool Legends Beatles Tribute Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. in Baldwin Auditorium. Tickets for the performance are $5.50 and are on sale online, at the Truman State University cashier window, at Edna Campbells Gifts in downtown Kirksville, and at Baldwin Auditorium on the day of the show. The final performance of the Lyceum Season will be the Golden Dragon Acrobats Saturday, Feb. 17. Tickets go on sale Friday, Feb. 2.
A small exhibit showcasing satirical and political graphics throughout the last three centuries will open Friday, Jan. 19 in the first floor gallery in Pickler Memorial Library. The exhibit is intended to show the evolution of satirical graphic art throughout history, from its beginning in the 1700s to its modern applications. Art from many different artists, eras and styles will be on display. The exhibit will run until March 4.
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5
A winter break for the books The Index talked to three international students to get a sense of what international students did throughout winter break. As it turns out, some students stayed in Kirksville taking classes during the winter interim semester, others visited their home countries to visit family and eat their favorite foods they had long missed, while some traveled around the United States visiting popular tourist attractions.
Alice Liu
Sophomore Alice Liu from China stayed in Kirksville to take a history class called “James Bond in the Twentieth Century” during the winter interim. She said it was nice because she had friends in the class. Liu said Truman is a nice, small college. She has enjoyed her previous classes because they gave her the experience she needed for what she wants to do as a career. “Public design, persuasion theory, and comm law helped the most because it gave me more practical experience,” Liu said. “It helped me learn an American perspective for many things. Since Truman is a small community, it gives me a good opportunity for talking to professors.” Liu said she wants to improve her GPA this spring semester and build more relations in the community. She wants to continue to upload makeup tutorials to her YouTube channel. During the break, Liu learned many editing tricks for her videos. She said she missed her family and friends but will continue to pursue her education at Truman.
Chenyan Jiang Junior Chenyan Jiang had different plans for the break. She decided to travel around the West Coast. First, she went to Hawaii before traveling to San Francisco and Los Angeles, California and return back to Kirksville. Jiang stayed for a about a week at each location to explore. Jiang said there are many differences between the culture in China and the culture in the United States. “The relationship between friends are different,” Jiang said. “It’s the thing that most impressed me. In America, you have a lot of acquaintances. In China, we put more emphasis on close friends. We may have only five close relationships which are important to us. But in America you can have like 50 acquaintances.” Jiang said she looks forward to the spring semester and wants to study harder to succeed in her classes.
Katia Pallais International student Katia Pallais said she feels like she belongs at Truman State University because of the multiple organizations she became a part of. Pallais chairs the Funds Allotment Council, helps with her service sorority, Tau Lambda Sigma, and works as a recruiter and admissions worker in the Center for International Students. But even though she feels comfortable here, she still misses her home in Nicaragua. Over break, Pallais returned to her country to visit friends and family. Pallais said she was born in Guatemala, where her grandparents live so during the winter break, so she also traveled to Guatemala to visit her grandparents. Pallais said she missed home because of family, friends and the food. She said she missed the culture as well. “The culture itself is different,” Pallais said. “We’re more huggy and our culture is more inherently warm than the culture here. So I do miss it, but I feel it is up to us as international students to make it or break it, you know? You get involved enough that you are enjoying even though you know it’s a different lifestyle you still enjoy it.” Pallais is graduating this spring and will be applying to many jobs and interviewing with different companies back home in Nicaragua.
VOLUME 109
ISSUE 15
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© 2018
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
Drake and Josh English professor explores diverse interests Top 5
“After School” Shows on Hulu
as told by Brently Snead
The newest show on the list, “Drake and Josh,” chronicles through hislearn book, “The Riddle of the two stepbrothers who must to tolerate each other. Painful Earth: and off Society Drake is the popular kid who playsSuffering guitar and blows in Josh W.D. Major who Writings schoolwork while is aHowells’ straight-A student has a of Early In it, he explored nerdy side andthe tends to be 1890s.” the responsible sibling. Despite history, theory their differences, the two19th tend tocentury get into adream lot of trouble, and socialism. He also meaning there’s neverAmerican a dull moment in the Parker-Nichols found time to advise Duke’s underhousehold.
graduate humor magazine, “Jabberwocky.” After joining the Truman faculty in 1986 with a doctorate degree in English, he started teaching a wide variety of courses, including nuclear weaponry and the history An all-time favorite that now has a Netflix original spinoff, “Family Matters” is an easily-relatable TV show of thatrock tells and of roll. Mielke’s methodside. is very there’s something compelling about a story that follows the struggles of family life whileteaching adding a humorous timely. instance, heallusually reads three men attempting to raise three girls. “Full House” Though none of us wantFor to be Steve Urkel, of us know when he gives addressed a serious life circumstance — single parenting someone who the is likeassignment Urkel — a well-meaning friend who’sit to class. Often Mielke teach — and added comedy to the situation. Despite the laughs, just a little toothe klutzy and a little too nosey. Thewill Winslow with book read and in the past, but the show does a nice job of addressing the importance of family makes the besta of everyhe situation encourages hediff still family to the audience, whether young or old. harmony among erentrereads people. it to keep it fresh on his mind. In that same year, he also got involved in a collaborative project with photographer James Crnkovich called “James Crnkovich’s Atomic America,” which aimed to photograph sites associated with America’s nuclear Don’t we all wish Baysideweapons High Schoolprogram. was real andThe we projCory and Topanga are the quintessential love story which ect took them to nuclear ground went there with our friends like Screech and Kelly? This zegives young people hope when they watch this typical roestoward in 48high states. said there were sitcom was geared schoolHe students and made teen show. The show begins when Cory is a measly middle issues getting to these locations lighthearted episodes about various social issues. Thoughdurschooler just trying to figure life out and follows him all ing the Ronald Reagan years, there were a lot of goofy scenes, the show never failedlikely Submitted Photo the way to his college years, when life gets harder. It’s because of the Cold War. He towas teach some important lessons and encourage teens Bob Mielke reads in his house with cuddled up beside his arm. Mielke has been an to English also important to notehis that cat Mr. Feeny, Cory’s teacher also restricted during the Bill Clinmake smart decisions. throughout the but show,has is always whenof Cory needs him and vast interests, like his interest in professor at Truman since 1986 hadthere some his quirky ton years, and then access privileges most, a relationship we all desire. nuclear weapons, since childhood. were completely removed after 9/11. Mielke has maintained an interest BY AURA MARTIN in nuclear and atomic weapons since he was a child. His father always had books about nuclear weapons for him to read. Mielke was part of the babyStaff Writer boomer generation that grew up during the Cold War. He was aware of the Cuban Missile Crisis and how close the United States was to a nuclear exEditor’s Note: This is part one of a two-part series change with the then Soviet Union. “It was the way I thought I would die, and it is currently the way I still Bob Mielke describes himself as a “catch of the day,” like a fish market, think I could die,” Mielke said. because of his diverse interests. “Atomic America” became a tribute to his childhood and his father who “I want it to be fresh, and that also keeps it fun,” Mielke said. Mielke is an English professor at Truman State University, the Director worked on the Manhattan Project — a research and development project to of Graduate Studies in English, and has taken an interest to other topics. create atomic weapons during World War II. His father also worked for AllisHe taught a popular genres class — ENG 206: Horror: An Introduction To Chalmers in Milwaukee designing the magnet for Oakridge, which was used Film — and a graduate class on William Faulkner last semester. In fall 2018, in the separation of uranium for the Hiroshima bomb. Mielke also learned his he plans on teaching courses on Native American literature and Bob Dylan’s brother worked at a Nevada test site and was a flight surgeon for the SR-71 Blackbird plane. works. “So nukes are in the family it turns out,” Mielke said. Although Mielke is primarily a playwright, he has numerous interdisciplinMielke and Crnkovich were finally able to complete and publish their book ary interests, including poetry, novel writing, music and nuclear weapons. Mielke said he tends to make his main hobby whatever he is currently doing. in 2015, 29 years after beginning the project. An unexpected side effect for Mielke was that he had suffered so much His biggest project these days is co-directing a documentary about a Wisconradiation exposure that he developed serious cataracts. His eyesight detesin musician, Sigmund Snopek III. “I’m being tapped on that almost daily,” Mielke said. “And so thinking about riorated to the point surgery was required to prevent him from going completely blind. that — filmmaking — is really sucking up all the oxygen out of the room.” “In Missouri, they basically were going to get me a seeing-eye dog and a Once that project is done, he plans to spend his next sabbatical critically cane,” Mielke said with a grimace. studying the band the Grateful Dead and working on a novel. Mielke went to Johns Hopkins Hospital to receive the operation. Mielke Mielke started cultivating his vast interests as an undergraduate at Marquette University, where he said they had a really good undergraduate lib- said he does not see any more nuclear projects in the future. “You know, if there is one, that will be really bad news, eh?” he said. “I’d eral, interdisciplinary program. When he went to graduate school at Duke University for English, he had to limit those pursuits, so he channeled them rather write.”
Full House
Boy Meets World
Family Matters
Saved by the Bell
Out-of-state students make Truman home BY JUSTIN NEWTON Staff Writer
“I came and toured and I was like, ‘You know what, I’ll apply for this school,’” Karls said. “I loved the town, and I liked the tour that they gave me. So I applied, and it turned out that the scholarship that they gave Conversation about students who travel to attend Truman State Uni- me [made it] also good to go here financially ... so that’s why I picked versity is often focused on students who come from foreign countries. Truman.” However, there is another segment of students who have been attracted Karls said the transition from her hometown to Kirksville has been from long distances by the reputation smoother than she thought it would be. of the “Harvard of the Midwest.” The “There’s a lot more opportunities The rural environment of Kirksville ofbenefits of a Truman education are fered a nice contrast to the more urban known all across the United States. Just out here, especially in a small town, environment of Lodi. She also said the like those of every other student, the where I do things like the shooting people in Kirksville made the transition experience of each out-of-state student easier. is different. However, all are united by club, or the bowling club, or I do “I think people in Kirksville actually attending a small Midwestern college. tend to be more community oriented,” Paige Karls, junior Spanish major, volunteer firefighting, just ‘cause Karls said. lives in Lodi, Wisconsin, seven hours it sounded cool. Back home ... there She said the seven-hour drive makes from Kirksville. Karls cited Truman’s visiting home difficult during the small size and strong academics as de- would be so much paperwork, there school year, but the friendships she has cisive reasons for her attendance. formed at Truman help. “At the time when I was looking at would be so many lawsuits that I’d “My first semester I don’t think I ever campuses and ideas of where to go I never have that opportunity probfelt homesick,” Karls said. “But then I was really interested in studying linwas able to cherish those longer times, guistics or languages, and I wanted to ably anywhere else but somewhere like the long breaks when I went home go to a small school,” Karls said. “The with my family ... so in the end, it’s difonly places that offered linguistics in- out here.” ferent, but it works.” state were at the big schools or in big While Karls came from the frigid cities, and I wasn’t interested in that.” North, Sonam Wangyal hailed from the Karls also mentioned her cousin rec- - Senior Sonam Wangyal sunny West to attend Truman. ommended the school, having gotten See OUT-OF-STATE page 7 her nursing degree here. On her cousin’s advice, she decided to see Truman for herself.
Top 5
“After School” Shows on Hulu
as told by Brently Snead
Full House
Drake and Josh The newest show on the list, “Drake and Josh,” chronicles two stepbrothers who must learn to tolerate each other. Drake is the popular kid who plays guitar and blows off schoolwork while Josh is a straight-A student who has a nerdy side and tends to be the responsible sibling. Despite their differences, the two tend to get into a lot of trouble, meaning there’s never a dull moment in the Parker-Nichols household.
Family Matters
An all-time favorite that now has a Netflix original spinoff, there’s something compelling about a story that follows three men attempting to raise three girls. “Full House” addressed a serious life circumstance — single parenting — and added comedy to the situation. Despite the laughs, the show does a nice job of addressing the importance of family to the audience, whether young or old.
“Family Matters” is an easily-relatable TV show that tells of the struggles of family life while adding a humorous side. Though none of us want to be Steve Urkel, all of us know someone who is like Urkel — a well-meaning friend who’s just a little too klutzy and a little too nosey. The Winslow family makes the best of every situation and encourages harmony among different people.
Boy Meets World
Saved by the Bell
Cory and Topanga are the quintessential love story which gives young people hope when they watch this typical teen show. The show begins when Cory is a measly middle schooler just trying to figure life out and follows him all the way to his college years, when life gets harder. It’s also important to note that Mr. Feeny, Cory’s teacher throughout the show, is always there when Cory needs him most, a relationship we all desire.
Don’t we all wish Bayside High School was real and we went there with our friends like Screech and Kelly? This sitcom was geared toward high school students and made lighthearted episodes about various social issues. Though there were a lot of goofy scenes, the show never failed to teach some important lessons and encourage teens to make smart decisions.
The Index
THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
OUT OF STATE | Students discuss reasons behind leaving their home states to come to Missouri and the experiences they’ve had at Truman Wangyal, senior Biology major, is from Anaheim, California. He cited the atmosphere as one of the primary reasons for choosing Truman. “I have family out here in St. Louis, so every time I come visit a lot of people are, I don’t know, just more relaxed,” Wangyal said. “So that’s one of the reasons I wanted to get out of California and experience something a little different, a little more small town life.” Coming from the cosmopolitan area of Anaheim, California was an adjustment for him. Wangyal said at home he hears different languages spoken daily on the street, and coming to the more homogenous Midwest was a bit of a culture shock. “Here we do have different cultures because of a lot of the international students, but outside of the international students I would say that there’s not a ton of diversity,” Wangyal said. “But that’s relative to me coming from back home where, everyone lives in Anaheim, all different races ... It’s not a bad thing, it’s just the way the world worked out.” Wangyal kept coming back to the differences between simple, small town life in Kirksville and the relatively complex pace of life in California. “There’s a lot more opportunities out here, especially in a small town, where I do things like the shooting club, or the bowling club, or I do volunteer firefighting, just ‘cause it sounded cool,’” Wangyal said. “Back home . . . there would be so much paperwork, there would be so many lawsuits that I’d never have that opportunity probably anywhere else but somewhere out here.” Former Truman student Desiree Jones also came from the west like Wangyal
Winter Weather
Tip of the Week
From the National Weather Service
but despite her love for the school, eventually the distance from home was enough of a burden that she decided to take a different path. Jones lives in Eugene, Oregon, and attended Truman from fall 2015 through the fall 2016 semester. “The first year was OK,” Jones said. “I did relatively well. Emotionally, it was tough of course because I have never been that far away from my parents — 2,000 miles — and you only get to see them twice a year, so that was a little rough. Then my sophomore year hit, and I kind of did what a lot of people end up doing and realized that, ‘Wait, I don’t have everything all figured out, I don’t know if I actually want to do this.’” Her family moved houses in Oregon, and Jones said she did not have time to adjust to her new home before moving back to Kirksville for another semester. “That kind of started the semester off rocky and things were getting harder and it just … it became too much,” Jones said. Jones decided to move back to Oregon, and is working full time at a local TV station. “I really enjoy it,” Jones said. “It’s the happiest I’ve been in a while.” Jones emphasized her liking for the school, despite the hardship that the distance caused her. “I think Truman’s a good school,” Jones said. “I liked Truman. I found that as with all places there were some flaws that eventually made it hard to want to stay. When I was there, the [mental health support] wasn’t enough…. But, honestly I wouldn’t have it any other way because I’ve grown as a person from all of it. I found out a lot about who I am, and I would not take any of it back.”
With the onset of severe winter weather, the possibility for motor vehicle accidents increases. Creating a winter storm survival kit to keep in your car can help you stay prepared for possible disasters. Consider adding the following items to your kit — blankets, a flashlight and backup batteries, snow shovel and brush, extra winter clothing, water and food, first aid kit, waterproof matches, sand or cat litter, a tow rope, and your cell phone and a car charger.
Questions on The Quad What class are you most looking forward to taking this semester?
“Probably BIO 108. That’s a pretty interesting class. It’s just a lot of big picture science stuff.”
Allison Kufta, freshman
What is a topic you hope to learn more about this semester?
“Probably more about the human physiology … I like to learn about animals, including humans. My mind is open to different careers in science — either animals or perhaps a medical field with people.”
“Hollywood and Broadway because it’s Pass/Fail [and] because it gives me a chance to learn things outside of my major.”
“I really don’t know a lot about investing or how to make investment decisions, so I’m going to be taking investments this semester, and I’m really excited to learn more about that.”
“International relations. It just sounds really fun. I like that kind of stuff so I’m excited.”
“I’m gonna be really cheesy here and say myself. Because that’s what college is all about — learning about yourself.”
Rachel Hansen, senior
What do you think the VPSA does?
“Hold on. Let me Google that.”
“I know if any issues within the students happen they handle that. Truman Week? I think they do stuff with that too?”
“I don’t know what that is. They hold a title. That’s what I think they do.”
Ben Rowley, freshman
Elexis Hubbard, freshman
“My anthropology of gender class. I think one, because it’s for my major and I kinda wanna get it over with and two, because it seems really interesting and I kind of want to know if it’s just about feminism or is it just like gender as a whole.”
“I guess, finding new things on campus because I just found out we have personal trainers on campus and I didn’t know that was a thing, so just finding out what’s more available for us because I didn’t know certain things. I’m excited to get a personal trainer honestly.”
“I heard about this because I read my emails. So I want to say like, they make sure they have the best interest for the students and kind of just make the campus better and more friendly for the student body?”
30
Visit www.gliks.com to find your nearest location
7
The Index
8
THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
Stewart breaks 9-year-old weight throw record
Hot start to 2018 lands Bulldogs in top of GLVC BY BROOKE BAILEY Staff Writer Truman State University men’s basketball is off to another successful season, currently sitting at a record 10-6. Leading the team this year is redshirt senior forward Zach Fischer. As the only senior on the team, Fischer has been a standout player and major contributor to the team’s success. He is currently leading the GLVC in doubledoubles, averaging one per game for the Bulldogs. Of the 15 games the Bulldogs have played so far this season, Fischer was Truman’s high scorer in 5 of them and had the most rebounds in 12 games. Despite the high success, Fischer said his main goal coming into his final season was to focus on the team and contribute to the team’s overall success the best he could. “Averaging a doubledouble was never a goal of mine coming into my final season,” Fischer said. “I honestly just wanted our team to have the most success as possible. We are a young team that is capable of achieving a lot.” Fischer said he owes a lot of his success on the court to his team as they regularly get him involved on the offensive side of the floor. He said the team is a selfless group that loves sharing the ball. In 15 games this season, Fischer has scored 269 total points in 450 minutes. On the defensive end, Fischer has 164 total rebounds. “We have made it a priority to rebound as a team,” Fischer said. “We start a smaller line up, and all five guys on the floor need to be able to rebound.” Leading by example is something Fischer said he has always believed in. He said the team is young, but the players are fitting the Bulldog culture that emphasizes energy and effort. Head coach Chris Foster
Photo submitted by Truman Athletics Senior Sam Stewart heaves the weight throw at a meet last year. Stewart broke the Truman record in the event by 2 feet at the Bulldog’s first meet of indoor season. BY KENNEDY MARTIN Staff Writer For senior Sam Stewart, his final season means one last chance in the throwers’ ring to leave a lasting mark at Truman State University. With just one meet under his belt, the thrower made a lasting statement with a first place medal and new Truman record in the weight throw. Stewart set the new record of 55’1” at the season opening Dutch Holiday Preview hosted by Central College on Saturday, Dec. 9. His throw beat out a near 10-year-old record of 53’7” held by alumnus Eric Ruzicka since 2008. The weight throw is an indoor track and field event where the athlete holds a 35-pound, handled weight, spinning their bodies multiple times in an enclosed circle to gain momentum. Throwers ultimately release the weight over their shoulder into the landing area with the goal of throwing the weight as far as possible. Leslie Hardesty, assistant track and field throwing coach, thinks the weight throw is the hardest event for a thrower to master because of the technique required, the weight of the implement and the amount of force that weight puts on the thrower’s body. Hardesty said Stewart has the work ethic to master the weight throw because he takes time to focus on these specific
details that make or break the success of a thrower in this challenging event. “I knew Sam had the potential to break the record at the end of his sophomore year,” Hardesty said. “During his junior season he missed it by just 9 inches. So at the beginning of his senior season, it was just a matter of which meet would he set the record.” Stewart said he shocked himself when he set a new school record because he struggled the week of practice prior to the event. “I was not throwing great and honestly not as prepared as I would have liked to be,” Stewart said. “But after the first few practice throws at Central College I sort of thought to myself that I could win this meet.” Stewart asked Hardesty to hold off on letting him know whether or not he beat the weight throw record until the end of the event because he wanted to focus on winning the event for his team. Though starting off with such a strong performance could mean added pressure, for Stewart, he said it was a relief and also motivation moving forward into this season. “The first meet is typically where you shake the rust off, but considering how well it went, it shows me that the sky’s the limit,” Stewart said. Stewart has improved each
year at the Dutch Holiday Preview. He said it can be hard to significantly improve in a sport like track and field because of how repetitive it is. He said it’s encouraging to look back on his progress throughout the years, and watching his marks increase is what makes it worth it. Though it’s evident Stewart’s determination to succeed is a significant reason for his recent accomplishment, Stewart said he owes his success to Hardesty and his teammates, — specifically, fellow senior thrower Kavan Weiss who has been with Stewart every step of the way. Weiss has been Stewart’s lifting and training partner almost through Stewart’s entire throwing career at Truman, and Weiss said they have consistently pushed each other to work harder. He said Stewart focuses on fixing even the smallest mistakes to get better. Weiss said Stewart has had a positive attitude toward practice day in and day out and a strong work-ethic as a result of his time as a multi-sport athlete in high school. Though Weiss was also pleasantly surprised that Stewart pulled off the new weight throw record in the very first competition of the season, he said he expected nothing less from Stewart. “His hard work was going to pay off,” Weiss said. “Here it happened sooner than later.”
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said Fischer’s leadership has been very important to the team. He said Fischer is a selfless, hard worker and a great student. “Not only is his vocal leadership on the court [important to the team], but the example that he sets everyday with his work ethic,” Foster said. “He is everything we want our Truman players to be.” As a player, Foster said Fischer’s greatest talent is how hard he plays. He said his effort on every play allows him to be the player he is. Fischer is also a tough matchup at the center because of his ability to score outside and inside. Foster said Fischer has improved every year he has been in the program because of his workman’s mentality. From his observations, he said Fischer has always been a team-first player with a positive attitude, he focused on the success of the team and worked until his opportunity came. Fischer is a great lesson for the younger players in the program. Redshirt junior guard Jack Green said Fischer has been a huge part of the team’s success this season. He said Fischer’s energy helps give the team a mental edge as it shows the rest of the team what it takes to win. In this way, Fischer’s leadership is valuable on a daily basis. Green said Fischer is having such great success on the court because he is always trying to impact the game in some way by scoring or rebounding. “He is relentless on the boards and takes pride in his ability to get so many [rebounds] each night,” Green said. “Our team is able to do a lot more when [Fischer] is playing at his best. He gives our other guys confidence to score the ball and helps put other teammates in a position to be successful on the court. He’s always striving to be the best he can be.”
THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
The Index
Women’s basketball team travels during winter break BY JAIME FOWLE Staff Writer
The Truman State University women’s basketball team was busy during winter break. While many students spent winter break traveling home, eating cookies and watching Hallmark movies, the Bulldogs spent all but six days training in Kirksville in preparation for a major step up in their schedule. Unlike the usual hustle and bustle of December, the women competed in just four contests before the start of the new year. After winning every game they played in December, the ‘Dogs entered 2018 with a 7-2 record, recording no losses in more than a month. The new year brought a new pace in schedule. The women opened 2018 GLVC play at home Jan. 4 against Missouri University of Science and Technology and Jan. 6 against Lewis University. Truman came out on top against Missouri S&T, posting a 77-50 win against the Miners. Hoping to extend their five-game win streak, Truman welcomed a Lewis team that would limit the Bulldogs to their lowest score of the season — their efforts falling short in a 73-58 loss to the Flyers.
Sophomore guard Sloane Totta dribbles past the defender. She led the team with 12 points.
9
January
19
Friday
Men’s Swimming
6 p.m. in Rolla, Mo. vs. Missouri University of Science and Technology
20 Saturday Swimming
1 p.m. in St. Louis, Mo. vs. Washington University in St. Louis
Women’s Basketball
1 p.m. in Evansville, Ind. vs. University of Southern Indiana
Men’s Basketball
3 p.m. in Evansville, Ind. vs. University of Southern Indiana Photos by Kara Mackenzie/TMN
Senior guard Remy Davenport launches a threepointer. The Bulldogs made five as a team.
Senior forward Sam Andrews said basketball season is a long season, but hoping for a strong finish means looking for a strong start. “Our loss to Lewis gave us insight on how to play better in future conference games,” Andrews said. “The GLVC is very competitive, [and] Lewis is undefeated.” Seeking another win, the winter-break edition Bulldogs packed their bags for a weekend trip to Rolla, Missouri, where they faced Missouri S&T for the second time in a week, producing similar results with a 79-59 victory. From Rolla, the women prepared for a trip to Kansas City, Missouri, where they would square off with the Rockhurst University Hawks. Posting their second straight victory with more than 20 points, 7552, the women finished the weekend sweep and headed home with a 5-1 start in the GLVC, 10-3 overall. Head coach Amy Eagan said the conference can be unpredictable on any a given night because of the new approach to conference seeding and scheduling this year. “It’s been a crazy conference of upsets,” Eagan said. “We have a big week ahead of us on the road.” Drury University, University of Southern Indiana and Lewis University currently lead the conference with the Bulldogs trailing right behind. Truman gets the opportunity to face these top teams this week. The Bulldogs lost 57-46 to Drury on Monday night and will play Southern Indiana 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20 in Evansville, Indiana.
Track
TBA in Jacksonville, Ill. vs. Illinois College
Wrestling
TBA in Springfield, Mo. vs. Maryville University TBA in Springfield, Mo. vs. McKendree University
23 Tuesday
Wrestling
7 p.m. in Kirksville, Mo. vs. Hannibal-LaGrange University
25 Thursday
Women’s Basketball
5:30 p.m. in St. Louis, Mo. vs. Maryville University
Men’s Basketball
7:30 p.m. in St. Louis, Mo. vs. Maryville University
Swimming Senior Day | Bulldog swimming honors seniors as it sweeps William Jewell College
Top Left: The Truman State University swim program honored 13 seniors for Senior Day against William Jewell College. Six men and seven women swam at Pershing Natatorium for the final time.
Photos submitted by Truman Athletics
Top Right: Senior Loriel Hutchinson prepares to jump off the blocks for one of her events. She swam freestyle and butterfly. Bottom: Senior Derek Mielke competes in a breaststroke race. He regularly swam in these, along with the individual medley events.
ATHLETE o f
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Freshman center Katie Jaseckas grabbed 18 rebounds and scored 8 points in Truman State University’s 57-46 loss to Drury University Monday night. It was the largest amount of rebounds from a single player on the women’s team since 2008. This was Jaseckas’ sixth double-figure rebound game this season.
Katie Jaseckas
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THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2018
Record-breaking culture
CURRENT BULLDOG RECORD HOLDERS Grace Fodor, senior 200 Medley Relay 1:43.31 Jamie Fitzpatrick, senior 1:32.57 200 Free Relay Nikki Sisson, senior 1:32.57 200 Free Relay Sam Heveroh, junior 44.88 100 Free 1:38.38 200 Free 3:01.36 400 Free Relay 6:40.78 800 Free Relay
Photo submitted by Truman Athletics Junior Austin Baker pushes through the water as the first leg of one of Truman’s men’s 400 meter freestyle relay teams. Baker’s name makes Truman’s record board for the relay. BY JASE WILLHITE Staff Writer Like their head coach Jerod Simek, the current Truman State University men’s swimmers can be found in the record books. They hope to further etch their names in Truman history the rest of the season. Among the current squad of 23 members, the team boasts roughly a dozen records at Truman in both individual and relay events. Several swimmers take to the new year having posted times on the brink of snagging a few more of these records. As the No. 20 team in the nation, it looks to finish the season out welcoming the new semester and an opportunity for better-thanever times. Simek owns records in the 1,650 meter freestyle, 1,000 free and 500 free. “The team definitely uses these records as motivation throughout the year, which helps breed a competitive mindset and culture at practice,” Simek said. Simek said this allows for every member of the team to push the person next to them to their fullest extent to get better as the season goes along. He said even though the team looks to try and keep the books as current as possible, the fastest times are almost sure to occur only three
times during the year — in November during the midseason meet and at the end of the season during the Conference and NCAA Finals. Simek said the times stand out at these meets, but the technique and race strategies needed to post these times are worked on constantly during the regular season meets and practices. While there is a handful of young men who currently hold records at Truman, only a couple of them hold individual records. These two Bulldogs account for 6 of the 15 individual records at Truman. Senior Will Shanel is one of the young men with his name on the wall of Pershing Natatorium. Shanel holds the current school records for the 200 backstroke, 200 butterfly stroke, 200 individual medley and 400 IM. He also has a share in the current 400 medley relay and 800 free relay records. These records were not simply handed to Shanel, or any of the members for that matter. The work ethic and motivation behind it all is what really shines, the records serving as a means to show the respect these young men have earned. “The record board is all about respect and getting as many people on it as possible … we want to have every name we can get on it to be as current as we can,” Shanel said.
Shanel said, as a squad, the main goal is to perform the best they can, and help the person next to them, and this is how the records get broken. The records might not be the actual goal, but it turns into a stepping stone along the way. He said every person on the team has had a long journey to get where they are today, and through it all, the goal is to see their names at the top of the charts, whether it be individual or as a group. Junior Sam Heveroh is another athlete familiar with the hunt for record-breaking times. Heveroh holds the records for the 100 free and 200 free. He is part of the recordholding 400 and 800 free relays teams as well. Heveroh and Shanel both agree that pride and respect are what drives the team throughout the season. “The motivation behind swimming fast and breaking records would probably be pride more than anything since we aren’t funded by the athletic department,” Heveroh said. Heveroh said that having a coach like Simek, who had much success in his years at Truman, really helps the team to stay focused and motivated to try and reach these goals. Heveroh said the insight and knowledge that he brings to the team really aids in bettering the unit as a whole.
While these two hold the only individual records at this point in time, there are members on the team who also have a share in some of the relay records. Juniors Caleb Kruse and Austin Baker and sophomore Lliot Gieseke all hold various relay records for the school as well. The Truman men’s swimmers have proven that breaking records are possible and will look to do more of the same for the rest of the season.
BY CURT WICHMER Staff Writer
“Taurin’s always been a great team guy, plays with a lot of energy, and is real positive,” Foster said. “Never got down about not playing, just wants to do what’s best for the team … He’s one of the hardest workers we’ve got, he’s always at the gym working on his shot, working on his ball-handling, and he’s always in the film room.” Foster said Hughes’ trips to the film room have been a vital part of his improvement in play. Foster said physically playing the game is naturally good for improvement, but non-physical activity, like reviewing old games, can be the extra push an athlete needs. Foster said learning from one’s mistakes is crucial in accelerating one’s play. Redshirt senior forward Zach Fischer said Hughes is an experienced member of the team and understands what the team has been trying to accomplish on both sides of the floor. Hughes is a threat on offense because he is difficult to guard, is quick enough to elude defenders and can get his shot off quickly. He said as a leader, Hughes brings the energy and effort required on a daily basis. “[Hughes] is an extremely hard worker that continues to get better each and every day,” Fischer said. “He has refused to be outworked by others, and it has finally paid off for him … He continues
Will Shanel, senior 200 Back 200 Fly 200 IM 400 IM 400 Medley Relay 800 Free Relay
1:49.51 1:47.27 1:48.72 3:48.56 3:21.65 6:40.78
Caleb Kruse, junior 400 Medley Relay 3:21.65 Lliot Gieseke, sophomore 400 Medley Relay 3:21.65 3:01.36 400 Free Relay Austin Baker, junior 400 Free Relay 3:01.36
Photo submitted by Truman Athletics Junior Sam Heveroh watches other racers finish in the men’s 200 meter freestyle last Saturday.
Hughes makes most of game-time opportunities
Photo by Kara Mackenzie/TMN
Redshirt junior guard Taurin Hughes floats a shot over a defender. Hughes averages 24 minutes per game. VOLUME 109
ISSUE 15
tmn.truman.edu
Many college athletes find themselves as “backup” players on their teams, getting less game time compared to their starter teammates. Some athletes push harder because of their position as a backup and eventually reach a starting position, as is the case with redshirt junior guard Taurin Hughes. Since his redshirt season with Truman State University basketball in 2014-15, Hughes has gradually played a larger role on the team with each successive season. In 2015-16, he played in nine games, then 10 games in 2016-17, and he is now at a starting position in the current season. So far, Hughes has proven to be an asset to the Bulldogs offense posting double-figure points in seven games. Head coach Chris Foster said Hughes has been a high scorer since high school, but development of decisionmaking has been a key element of his growth from his freshman year at Truman. He said initially, Hughes had issues with turnovers, but he has addressed this since his first season and has done a solid job of spreading the ball around his teammates, and being an asset both with the ball in his hands and without. Foster said Hughes has become a leader on the team — an athlete the younger players can look up to.
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to make the most every opportunity the coaching staff has given him.” Hughes said he learned a lot from the upperclassmen of Truman basketball, and took steps from his beginning to focus on regular improvement. By following the example of the older players, he has been able to help the team both on and off the court.
“He has refused to be outworked by others, and it has finally paid off for him …” -Redshirt senior forward Zach Fischer
Hughes said the key to selfimprovement is being coachable, being open to feedback and making adjustments. He said he hopes that as an older member of the team, he will be able to act in a way that promotes improvement to all members, like the upperclassmen did for him. “I feel like my game is so much different than when I first got here because I’ve been able to adjust and improve,” Hughes said. “It’s really rewarding that I’m finally getting to go out there and have an impact. It’s definitely been a long time coming and I just want to help us win in any way possible, whether that is scoring, defense, or anything else.”
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