The UAPB Arkansawyer - Nov. 15, 2023

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Established 1929

What’s Inside

2023 Spring Commencement: 286 undergraduate and 25 graduate students are recognized for their achievements.

THE ARKANSAWYER The Official Voice of the UAPB Student Body WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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150 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE CELEBRATING JOSEPH CARTER CORBIN DAY

GRADUATION, 4A

UAPB School of Business and Management awarded first MBA degrees since the program launched in 2021.

UAPB’s Nursing Program honored graduates at a Pinning Ceremony.

UAPB News

will not look forward to posterity, who never look backward to their ancestors.’ Today, we pause to look back, reflect, and honor the life and work of Corbin, who laid the foundation for higher education for African Americans in Arkansas.”

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) School of Business and Management graduated its first six students from the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program during the commencement ceremony held on May 6.

This year’s graduates earned an MBA in business analytics: David Laurence Alexander, De’Neshia Nicole Gaines, Rodney H. Griffin, Kaila Janae Robinson, Nikita Shante Seahorn and Alyssa Maria Wesley. “ The students enrolled in our MBA program strive for excellence in all facets of our program, which includes research-to-work, and continuously hone their leadership skills, strategic thinking, and teamwork,” said Lawrence Awopetu, interim dean of the School of Business and Management. “I’m wonderfully proud of our graduates

SEE CORBIN DAY, 2A

SEE MBA, 4A

PINNING, 2A

A new portrait of Professor Joseph Carter Corbin was unveiled during the Corbin Day celebration in the STEM Building on Sep. 27. The painter of the portrait, Justin Thomasson (left), is joined by the event’s mistress of ceremony, Dr. Gladys Turner Finney (right). (Arkansawyer Staff photographer)

UAPB Football Team struggled on both sides of the ball in a defeat to Alcorn State, 31-7.

FOOTBALL, 1C

UAPB remembers its founder, Professor Joseph Carter Corbin The university’s first president was recognized for his contribution and achievement in state’s higher education.

By Arkansawyer Staff Writer

Tamesha Monk, staff writer, reviews “Barbie” and talks about the pink culture the movie has created among cinemagoers.

PLAYLISTS, 2B

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) held Professor Joseph Carter Corbin Day as part of the 150th anniversary celebration of the school’s foundation.

More than two hundred people gathered

in the STEM Building to recognize the legacy of the university’s first president, Joseph Carter Corbin, who is revered as the “Father of Higher Education” for African Americans in Arkansas and the founder of Pine Bluff ’s Branch Normal College in 1873, later renamed Agricultural, Mechanical & Normal

College (AM&N) and now known as UAPB. The program’s mistress of ceremony, Gladys Turner Finney, a UAPB alum and author of a biography of Corbin, said in her opening remarks, “I’m an heir to the legacy of Professor Joseph Carter Corbin. Edmund Burke said, ‘People

UAPB celebrates 150th anniversary during the Founder’s Week

Chatbots might disrupt math and computer science classes. Some teachers see upsides.

The week-long celebration began April 17 with a theme “150 Years of Excellence: Mission, Milestones, and Memories.”

CHATBOTS, 3A

Women’s soccer team takes on Southern U. in the SWAC conference. The team lost in a tough match 0-1, dropping to 4-3-0 in the conference.

PLAYLISTS, 2C

Chancellor Emeritus of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Carolyn Frazier Blakely delivers her keynote speech during the Founder’s Honors and Awards Convocation on April 21. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

By Gia Turner Staff Writer

Gia Turner, editorin-chief, explains how college students can benefit from creating their own personalized music playlists.

PLAYLISTS, IB

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6 UAPB Students Receive MBA Degrees

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) celebrated its 150th anniversary with a Founder’s Celebration.

The event, held on April 17-23, was a momentous opportunity for students, faculty, alums and community members to come

together and commemorate the university’s rich history and promising future.

Founded in 1873, UAPB started as a historically black college and university (HBCU) called Branch Normal College and later known as Arkansas Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal College (AM&N). In its

early days, the school provided education and opportunities to students in the local area during perilous times such as the Jim Crow era. By looking back at where it all began, the founder’s day celebration was an opportunity to honor the visionaries who founded the university and the countless individuals who have

worked to make UAPB what it is today.

The celebration started with a “campus kickoff ” held at the W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower on April 17. The event featured UAPB students, faculty, alums, community members, and local organizations. The campus was lined with onlookers cheering on the procession, including the UAPB March Band and the Golden Girls and Spirit teams.

Following the kickoff, the celebration continued with a movie night on Tuesday. This event was followed by the Silent Headphone Skate Party hosted by the UAPB Programming Board on Wednesday.

The crowd was skating and singing along to classic songs and modern hits.

The remainder of the week was filled with various awards, convocations, recitals and activities. The Unity Fest was held on Friday at the H.O. Clemmons Arena.

SEE FOUNDERS, 2A

UAPB hosts “Career Exhibit” The event attracted over 120 organizations.

By Kur’an Suluki Staff Writer

The Career Service Center at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) hosted the 2023 Fall Career Exhibit for current students and alums on Oct. 4, in the Kenneth L. Johnson Sr. Complex, H.O. Clemmons Arena (HPER) on the UAPB Campus.

This event is the largest gathering of companies and students in the semester.

Ac c ord i ng t o t h e UAPB’s Career Service Center, 123 organizations representing business, industr y, government agencies, graduate and professional schools and school districts were in attendance.

Some companies are long-time event participants, while othSEE CAREER, 3A

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2A

On This Page

Read more about the 150 year celebration activities during the Founders Week.

Established 1929

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

CORBIN DAY

> continued from 1A In his welcoming remarks, UAPB Chancellor Dr. Laurence B. Alexander praised Profess or C orbin’s contribution and dedication to the university.

“We’re celebrating 150 years of excellence as a historically black university filled with a rich history, and it’s important that we pay tribute and give honor to those who have sacrificed their lives, paved the way and had the courage to make valuable contributions to our university, our community and our nation.

There’s no better way to celebrate than recognizing and paying homage to the first president and founder of this great institution,” Alexander said.

The chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and the event’s Keynote Speaker Charles F. Robinson had an empowering speech about Professor Corbin.

As the first Black chancellor of the university, Robinson said Professor Corbin’s vision for and dedication to higher education was instrumental in establishing great land-grant universities, such as UAPB and UA Fayetteville.

“He was by definition a visionary who saw the ultimate importance of higher education and transforming lives at a time when many people were simply seeking to get very elementary aspects of education.

Without his vision, there would be no UA Fayetteville and no

FOUNDERS

> continued from 1A

Gladys Turner Finney, the event’s mistress of ceremony, presents a gift to the keynote speaker, Charles Robinson, as a token of appreciation. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

From left to right: UAPB Junior Mikayla Ware and Senior Ja’De Walker-Wilson pose for a photo with Gladys Turner Finney. Right photo: The state historian and director of the Arkansas State Archives (ASA) addresses the audience during the Corbin Day celebration.

(Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

UAPB. It is important to recognize history and history makers, and he was a remarkable individual,” Robinson said.

Robinson said Corbin was “a tireless worker” in multiple capacities as “a chancellor, faculty, staff, custodial server and facility manager. He was everything that the institution needed at the same time because he was committed to seeing it become successful.”

State historian and of minority groups.

As UAPB moves forward into its next 150 years, it will continue to build on its legacy of excellence and commitment to serving its students and community.

The Founder’s Celebration was a tribute to the university’s founders and a celebration of all that UAPB’s mission, milestones and memories of the past and the future.

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The Arkansawyer

director of Arkansas State Archives David Ware said that Professor Corbin was “a remarkable man, a remarkable educator, one who saw the future as it might be, as it should be and worked to make it happen by working long and hard in education.”

Corbin Day also marked a momentous occasion for Pine Bluff. Days leading up to Corbin Day, West Second Avenue was renamed “Joseph C.

Corbin St.” in his honor.

Mayor Shirley Washington proclaimed on behalf of the city of Pine Bluff, marking the day as “Corbin Day,” followed by resolutions from U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman and District 8 State Sen. Stephanie Flowers.

“Education as we know it is transformative. Dr. Corbin transformed education in Arkansas by offering public college education to formerly enslaved

UAPB announced new Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.

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African Americans and their descendants,” Washington said. “ He m a g n i f i e d Pine Bluff as a learning center for higher education. Today, UAPB is a multicultural institution with a diverse student population.

Their 20,000 graduates have made immeasurable contributions to their local community, the state, and the nation,” Washington said.

Corbin Day was not only a historic moment for the university and the city of Pine Bluff but also for his living legacy of descendants.

Ash l e y N . C ro ck ett, a fifth-generation descendant of Corbin, shared some words regarding Corbin Day and his everlasting history.

“It was like a history lesson to learn so many new details,” Crockett said. “I think that this celebration not only solidifies his importance to this school, but, as I said again, his importance to the city of Pine Bluff.”

Trent Wills, the executive student body president at UAPB, said, “As we come toget her to honor Joseph Carter Corbin, we commemorate the remarkable milestone of 150 years of student success and achievement at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Over a century and a half, we have seen countless students like Mr. Corbin fueled by their determination, dedication, and opportunities provided

by our university. We stand as a testament to the transformative power of education.”

The program also unveiled a new portrait of Corbin, followed by an autobiographical documentary of Corbin.

Artist and UAPB graduate Justin Thomass on p ai nte d t he portrait, which will be displayed in Corbin Hall.

The 7-minute-long documentary was produced by the University Museum and Cultural Center and UAPB-TV. It was written by Carla Bryant, edited

by UAPB-TV Television Program Manager R andy Kel l e y and narrated by UAPB Chancellor Emeritus Dr. Carolyn Blakely.

Corbin (March 26, 1833 – January 9, 1911) attended Ohio University in Athens, where he became the third African American student enrolled at the university and the second African American to graduate from the institution.

He graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in 1853 and a master of arts in 1856.

Joseph Carter Corbin (Courtersy of the Arkansas State Archives)

UAPB’s new provost has a passion for excellence

The event began with inspiring speeches from university leaders.

Throughout the day, Provost Andrea Stewart focuses on quality education and student success. there were also panel discussions with aspirtion and a profound for the students,” Stewmeet the highest staning student leaders. commitment to fosterart stated. dards.

The histor y of ing excellence at UAPB. Stewart’s vision As the new provost, HBCUs, the role of edu“Dr. Stewart has is centered on alignStewart’s mission is cation in social justice, a great passion for ing UAPB with the clear—to continue the and the future of UAPB higher education and ever-evolving demands tradition of excellence were only a few topics our students’ success,” of the modern job marat UAPB. She envisions touched on during the Chancellor Laurence ket. She believes in the university’s future speech portion of the B. Alexander said in a preparing students for as a beacon of qualevent. recent UAPB News artithe workforce of today. ity education, student These discussions cle.

“We shouldn’t prepare success and visionary brought together stuAlexander became students for the work leadership.

Dr. Andrea Stewart, dents and alumni from her mentor and told field of years ago; we “I want to see our UAPB Provost and Vice UAPB and beyond to her, “We need you must prepare them for programs accredited Chancellor for Academic share their insights and here.” Then, her connecthe work field now,” and successful,” StewAffairs. (Arkansawyer/Gia Turner) engage in thoughtful tion with the university Stewart said. art said. dialogue. was forged, fueling her Her formula for Stewart’s 35 years

By Gia Turner The celebration condesire to make a difsuccess, “The D.O.A.” of dedicated service to Staff Writer cluded with a few signifference. “As a Howard (Desire, Opportunity UAPB and unwavering icant events. First, a New graduate, not knocking and Ability), encapsupassion for education Orleans-themed dinner, Dr. Andrea Stewanyone else, but you lates her dedication to is the driving force “A Night in ‘Nawlins” art, a leader with deep can go anywhere. You empowering students behind her vision for Alexander comand Chancellor’s Schol- Chancellor roots at the University say ‘Howard, ’ and doors to seize opportunities the university’s future. mended award recipients at arship Gala. This black- the Founders’ and Honors of Arkansas at Pine Bluff open,” Stewart said. and fulfill their aspira“I was hesitant to tie event was held at the Convocation by saying, “You (UAPB), has embarked Her connection tions. take the role as provost are equipping and preparing Pine Bluff Country Club. on her role as the new with UAPB was nurStewart’s approach because it’s so demandyourselves for a bigger world Attendees dressed in provost and vice chantured under Alexander’s to leadership is ing,” Stewart said. “I this university, that is a their finest attire to toast beyond cellor for academic mentorship, and her anchored in close colbelieve this is what 21st century, globalized workUAPB’s past, present and force. Things that you gain affairs. In her journey love for student success laboration with the God prepared me for, future. to this pivotal position, motivated her to take Student Government to be here at this time now will allow you to achieve The dinner featured success in any sector of the Stewart brings a wealth the helm as provost.

Association and ensurand place,” Stewart live music, dancing and workforce you desire.” of experience, dedica“I chose to stay here ing that all programs concluded. a keynote address from UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander.

A sunrise service followed and alumni breakfast on Sunday.

The Founder’s CeleBy Kur’an Suluki bration was a reminder Staff Writer of the importance of the accomplishments UAPB and historically of nursing program black colleges. By proThe University of graduates. viding access to educa- Arkansas at Pine Bluff The ceremony hontion and opportunity (UAPB) hosted its Pinored the hard work and for under-served com- ning Ceremony on May dedication of students munities, HBCUs like 4, just before the spring who completed either UAPB have opened new graduation ceremony.

SEE PINNING, 3A doors for many students The event recognized If you have any story ideas or comments on the paper, please contact us at arkansawyer@uapb.edu

UAPB’s nursing program honors graduates during Pinning Ceremony

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11/16/23 8:22 AM

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Debate on how AIdriven technology should be used in classrooms continues.

Established 1929

PINNING

> continued from 2A an associate degree in nursing or a bachelor of science degree in nursing.

During this ceremony, nursing graduates received pins symbolizing their readiness and competence to begin their careers as licensed practical nurses or registered nurses.

After graduation, many graduates aspire to take the National Council Licensure Exam, a pivotal step toward b ecoming licensed nurses and launching their nursing careers.

Several speakers, including UAPB Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander, Interim Provost Andrea Stewart and School of Arts and Sciences Interim Dean Grant Wangila, offered

On This Page Read more about the Career Exhibit & Nursing Pinning ceremony.

News

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 want you to know we are proud that you have made it this far.

So, don’t quit. Stay up to the end. And cherish this moment as our nursing students receive their pins.”

Those bidding farewell to the university are optimistic that they will continue to excel in their chosen careers, equipped with the knowledge and skills acquired at UAPB. Diann Williams, former chair of the nursing department, emphasized the program’s alignment with national standards and its resilience in the face of pandemic-related challenges.

She stated, “The nursing program curriculum is built upon national standards that have paved the way for student success. Nursing programs nationwide faced challenges dur-

Photos from top to bottom:Valencia Dupree is pinned by her mother,Valeria Dupree. Alexi Mack shows her certificate for academic excellence. Graduates are holding candlelights to commemorate Florence Nightingale as the “lady with the lamp.” (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

words of recognition, encouragement and commendation to all individuals who played a role in assisting students in achieving their educational goals.

Stewart said, “We

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ing the pandemic, but we worked tirelessly to overcome them. This graduating class is a testament to the quality of post-pandemic education here at UAPB.” With this assurance,

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FEATURE

Will ChatGPT make math homework obsolete?

As schools across the country debate banning AI chatbots, some math and computer science teachers are embracing them as just another tool.

Compiled by Arkansawyer staff from AP Newsroom

For as long as Jake Price has been a teacher, Wolfram Alpha — a website that solves algebraic problems online — has threatened to make algebra homework obsolete.

Teachers learned to work around and with it, said Price, assistant professor of mathematics and computer science at the University of Puget Sound. But now, they have a new homework helper: generative artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT. Price doesn’t see ChatGPT as a threat, and he’s not alone. Some math professors believe artificial intelligence, when used correctly, could help strengthen math instruction. And it’s arriving at a time when math scores are at a historic low, and educators are questioning if math should be taught differently.

Ar tif icial intelligence can serve as a tutor, giving a student struggling with a problem immediate feedback. It can help a teacher plan math lessons or write math problems geared toward different levels of instruction.

As schools nationwide debate banning AI students can confidently tackle the next challenges in their personal and professional growth journey.

Some graduates shared their thoughts and feelings about the pinning ceremony and their experiences at UAPB. A recent nursing program graduate, Alexi Mack, expressed

Photo by Aaron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post/Getty Images.

chatbots, some math and computer science teachers embrace them as another tool.

“Math has always been evolving as technology evolves,” said Price. “A hundred years ago, people used slide rules and did all their multiplication with logarithmic tables. Then, along came calculators.”

Price makes sure students have the skills to solve problems on their own. Then, he discusses the limitations of the technologies they might be tempted to use when they get home.

“Computers are really good at doing SEE CHATGPT 4A

her gratitude to “the supportive and encouraging faculty and staff who stood by my side every step of the way.”

Jerome Cole, another graduate, highlighted how the program helped him improve interpersonal skills, a crucial aspect of the workforce.

He noted, “The nursing program really

Dr. Stephanie Laggini Fiore, associate vice provost and Senior Director of the Center for the Advancement of Teaching hosts a faculty teaching circle on artificial intelligence on Aug. 9 at Temple University in Philadelphia. Educators say they want to embrace the technology’s potential to teach and learn in new ways, but when it comes to assessing students, they see a need to “ChatGPT-proof ” test questions and assignments. (Associated Press/Joe Lamberti)

helped pinpoint the areas I needed help with when it came to interpersonal relationships.

Other schools mainly focus on academics. All of it comes into play in the workforce, and it was for our benefit. That was one of the highlights for me.”

These testimonials underscore the value of

CAREER

> continued from 1A ers are relatively new.

Wit h comp anies looking to fill job openings and students looking for part-time and full-time work, the career exhibit is one of the most important ways to meet employers and get on their candidate lists for internships and jobs.

The exhibit allows participating companies to meet with and conduct immediate interviews with many job seekers from across the state. C ompanies based in locations nationwide attend the career fair to help students do just that.

Attending the career fair was a former UAPB student, Kylan Weatherspoon, who graduated in May 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in business marketing.

After graduation, Weathersp o on was employed in Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Corporate Accounting Development Program (CADP) for about three months.

When asked how

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Shelby Vaughn, senior business administration and marketing major.

he got to this point, Weatherspoon said he owed his success to the Career Service Center at UAPB, as it provided the first contact between him and the company.

We a t h e r s p o o n advised students to “put yourself out there” and “not be afraid of not securing positions,” emphasizing acquiring experience rather than rushing into an open position.

There is truth to what Weatherspoon said, as many companies have different employee requirements.

These requirements can apply to experience, major, classification and

Students listen to company representatives during the fall Career Exhibit, hosted by the UAPB Career Services Center at H.O. Clemmons Arena. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

UAPB students at the Career Exhibit: Darius Turntine (left), Michael Love (middle) and Jordan Lowe (right).

location.

Some companies will even change their conditions to meet the needs of both the students and the company itself.

Many companies at the career exhibit mentioned that the number of positions available to second and first-year students were increasing. As mentioned above, the career fair aims to provide students

the nursing program at UAPB, showcasing how it equips students for success in their careers and interactions with others.

The future holds great promise for these graduates as they prepare to positively impact the world through the nursing skills acquired at UAPB. with work experience opportunities. As such, it is essential not to limit oneself to a single position and to explore all available options.

With requirements being more considerate to students, obtaining job positions and internships can be more accessible.

That said, it is important to remember that establishing a career demands effort from both sides. Companies will often look for the best candidates to fulfill their needs.

Applying what you have learned and playing to your strengths is an effective way to advance your career, especially if the field fits you.

You will never know if the first handshake at the exhibit can lead you to your career path. You may be standing on the other side of the table next year.

Recruiters advise job seekers to bring copies of their resumes in a professional dress. Avoid jeans, sweats or miniskirts.

Career Service Center:

Caldwell Hall, Suite 202 870 575-8461 careersvcs@uapb.edu.

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4A News UAPB celebrates spring commencement The Arkansawyer

Established 1929

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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286 undergraduate and 25 graduate students honored for their achievements.

Philanthropist William F. Pickard shared knowledge, and outstanding students received the Chancellor’s Medallions.

By Gia Turner Staff Writer

On May 6, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) held its 167th Commencement ceremony, where 286 graduates were recognized for their hard work and dedication.

The ceremony was held at Simmons Bank Field, and it was a colorful event, with families and friends dressed in their best attire to celebrate their loved ones.

Chancellor Laurence B. Alexander was in attendance reminded the graduates that the ceremony was not just a celebration of their ac ademic achie vements, but that it is the beginning of the rest of their lives. He congratulated the class of 2023 for their hard work and dedication and encouraged them to build a stronger foundation for a better life.

During the ceremony, the Chancellor’s Medallion was presented

CHATGPT

> continued from 3A tedious things,” Price said. “We don’t have to do all the tedious stuff.

We can let the computer do it. And then we can interpret the answer and think about what it tells us about the decisions we need to make.”

Min Sun, a University of Washington education professor, thinks students should u s e c h at b o t s l i k e personal tutors. “If students don’t understand a mathematical operation, they can ask ChatGPT to explain it and give examples,” said Sun. She wants teachers to use ChatGPT as their own assistant to plan math lessons, give students feedback and communicate with parents. Teachers can also ask ChatGPT to recommend different levels of math problems for students with different mastery of the concept, she said.

Sun said this is particularly helpful for teachers who are new to the profession or have students with diverse needs.

“It gives you some initial ideas and possible problem areas for students so I can get myself more prepared before walking into the classroom,” Sun said.

A year ago, if you asked Daniel Zingaro how he assesses his introductory computer science students, he would say: “We ask them to write code.”

But if you ask him to d ay, t he ans we r would be more complex, said Zingaro, an associate professor at the University of Toronto.

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Graduating students are recognized for their achievements during the in-person, outdoor commencement ceremony on May 6, at Simmons Bank Football Field. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

William F. Pickard Keynote speaker

to seven outstanding students who demonstrated exceptional academic excellence.

Zingaro and Leo Porter, a computer science professor at the University of California San Diego, co-authored the book L e ar n A I - Ass i ste d Python Programming with GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT. They believe artificial intelligence w i l l a l low introductory computer science classes to tackle big-picture concepts.

Ma ny b e g i n n e r students need help with writing simple code, Porter and Zingaro said in the book.

They never move on to more advanced questions, and many still can’t write simple code after they complete the course.

“It’s not just uninteresting, it is frustrating,” Porter said. “They are trying to build something. And they forget a semicolon and lose three hours trying to find that missing semicolon” or some other syntax that prevents a code from running properly.

C h a t b o t s d o n’t make those mistakes and allow computer science professors to spend more time teaching higher-level skills.

Not all professors in the field think artificial intelligence should be integrated into the curriculum. But Zingaro and Porter argue that reading code generated by artificial intelligence doesn’t feel like cheating. Instead, it’s how a student is going to learn.

“I think many programmers read a lot of code, just like how I believe the best writers read a lot of writing,” Zingaro said. “I think that is a very powerful way to learn.”

Each student had the highest grade point average (GPA) in their academic school. These students were Ma’Kyah Goodlow, Samaria Jackson and Gerrod White from the School of Arts and Sciences, Kylan Weatherspoon from the School of Business Administration, Jessica Mitchell from the School of Education, Alexandria Coleman from University College, and Danniel Bailey from the School of Agri-

culture. The recipients were congratulated and applauded by the audience, including their families and friends.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the UAPB Golden Lion Battalion class of 2023, which was the largest graduating battalion class in UAPB history. The battalion was recognized for its hard work and dedication, and they received a great ovation from the audience and staff alike.

Among the spring graduates were six students to receive a master of business administration (MBA) degrees in business analytics since the MBA program began in the fall of 2021.

In addition, two students graduated with their master of science degrees in Addiction Studies, the university’s online program and the only graduate program in addiction studies in Arkansas.

The guest speaker

for the ceremony was Philanthropist William F. Pickard, Ph.D., who shared his wisdom and experiences with the graduates.

Pickard is an entrepreneur and author of the book titled “Surviving The Shift,” which is about networking and building relationships.

Pickard has been honored by Black Enterprise Magazine as one of the 50 most influential black entrepreneurs over the past 50 years. He is the founder and executive chairman of GAA Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management and GAA New Ventures, co-managing partner at MGM Grand Detroit Casino and co-owner of four newspapers, which have evolved into Real Times Media, a media marketing company.

In his speech, Pickard emphasized the importance of networking and building relationships, stating that “if you don’t network, you might not work.” He likened relationships to an elevator, stating that they can take you up or down, so it is essential to be careful.

The UAPB 167th Spring Commencement ceremony ended with the conferring of 286 degrees to the graduates.

COMMENCEMENT PHOTO GALLERY

Top left photo: Brandi Williams (far left), Briana Dockery (middle) and Zjenaira Rosario (far right). Top right photo: Lynn Duncan (far left), Zharia Fluker (middle) and Cydni Adams (far right). Destiny Kilgore (bottom left), Harli Rodgers (bottom center) and Tyre White with Chancellor Alexander (bottom far right)

MBA

> continued from 1A and look forward to seeing them succeed in their chosen business industry post-graduation.”

“Both of my parents have a business background, and I’m honored to follow in my family’s footsteps by earning both my undergraduate and master’s degrees from UAPB,” Alyssa Wesley said. “The university’s MBA program is special in every sense of the word, and I’m proud to have made my mark at UAPB.” Wesley graduated magna cum laude when she received her bachelor of science in business management from UAPB in May 2021. When Wesley learned that UAPB would soon begin the

MBA program, she chose to stay in Arkansas and earn her MBA in the inaugural class of graduates.

Po st - g r a du at i on , Wesley aims to work for the National Football League® in either business analytics or operations and front office management capacity.

“I can’t wait to see what the future holds

using the knowledge, tools, and business skills I learned through the program,” Wesley said.

The MBA program combines a fortified balance of theory and pr a c t i c e, e nabl i ng aspiring business managers to develop strong analytical, communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills that can be creatively deployed to the busi-

ness world. Students can choose from three specializations: gaming and casino management, hospitality management and business analytics.

The MBA program, which began in the Fall of 2021 and currently has 24 students enrolled, is expected to expand enrollment next semester and is working to offer online courses to working applicants.

MBA graduates at the commencement.

From left to right: De’Neshia Nicole Gaines (first), Kaila Janae Robinson (third), Rodney H. Griffin (fourth), Nikita Shante Seahorn (fifth), Alyssa Maria Wesley (seventh) and David Laurence Alexander (far right).

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The Arkansawyer

Life/Entertainment Established 1929

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

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PEOPLE

I do not like to be rushed. If I had to be in Pine Bluff by noon, I would leave three hours early.

Discover how Isaiah Young has experienced the transformative power of his scholarships and how they helped him fulfill his dreams.

By Reagan Adams Staff Writer

I

saiah Young, a senior agriculture, agronomy, and plant science major, was awarded multiple scholarships, including the Dr. Hazell Reed Scholarship, the Farr-Kelley Scholarship Award and the Dr. Hazell and Mrs. Loistene Reed Scholarship during the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff ’s annual Founders and Honor’s Awards Convocation held on April 21 at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

Young is a first-generation college student who credits his scholarship opportunities as what led him down the path of agriculture.

Before college, Young had minimal experience.

Although his family was not farmers, a nearby neighbor would allow Young and some friends to help him with his crops. Young recalled his summers planting sweet potatoes in his neighbor’s field and shared his first look into the agriculture world.

He is an 1890 Scholarship recipient, a member of Manors and the National Hon-

Interviews and photos by Matthew Harris

ors Society member. He also works on the UAPB agriculture department farm.

When asked how he maintains his grades to keep his scholarships, he credits his willingness to focus and early bird mentality.

“I do not like to be rushed,” Young said. “If I had to be in Pine Bluff by noon, I would leave three hours early. I tried to stay focused. When you are in college, it’s really hard to lose track of anything. I stayed to myself a lot. Tried to get my priorities done before I do anything.”

Young is attentive and punctual. Among his teachers, he is known never to miss a day of class and is always the first student there. Habits like these keep Young on top of all his work.

Young’s academic advisor at UAPB, Dr. Sixte Ntamatungiro, said, “Mr. Young is a very punctual person.

He’s never missed a class.”

Young said he had learned this work ethic as he had transitioned from high school to college.

“High school is dif-

ferent from college. In high school, you miss things, you can get the information the next day. But, in certain college classes, you wouldn’t get that information again if you missed something, like lecture slides. So, I have to put it up to myself to ensure I show up every day because if I miss something, it will hit me in the long run,” Young said.

Before college, he was a vigorous football, basketball, and track team athlete. In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 outbreak, Young was graduating from Marvell-Elaine High School. With the public concern catering towards the virus, many high school students needed more opportunities to obtain scholarships or even apply for college. Unfortunately, this was also the case for Young. After his counselor left the school, Young searched for opportunities independently. Fortunately, he found the 1890 Scholarship and joined UAPB as one of its scholarship recipients.

Yo u n g cred-

Isaiah Young, a senior agriculture, agronomy and plant science major, has been awarded multiple scholarships, including the Dr. Hazell Reed Scholarship, the Farr-Kelley Scholarship Award and the Dr. Hazell and Mrs. Loistene Reed Scholarship.

ited his high school superintendent, Ms. Denetra Williams at Marvell-Elaine, for helping him with his college applications. Marvell is a very rural area where it is hard to receive cell phone service.

He grew close to Wil-

liams, who allowed him to visit her house and use her computer. He would print off essays, other school assignments, and information for different scholarships. He credits this teacher with helping him enroll and inspiring him academically.

UAPB COMMUNITY

Matanda Phiri

Aerial Daniel

Natiaya Caradine

Kyler Hayes

“This semester has provided me with a newfound appreciation for non-academic on-campus events.

After enduring numerous near-death experiences in the calculus II exam room, I’ve understood that life is about more than just y’s and x’s. My standout on-campus experience this semester was the bonfire during homecoming week, and I can’t help but shout out to M4 (I love you, M4!).”

“One positive thing that has happened to me is that I met a lady named Dominek, and she is really nice. She works here at UAPB. Dominek always helps me with anything at the school or personally, if needed. I’m very appreciative of this opportunity to meet her because I’m from Illinois and didn’t know anyone on the campus. Although I just met Dominek in August, it feels like she’s my long-lost auntie.”

“My school year has been going pretty well. My campus life and engagement have been at an all-time high compared to my previous year. Although I am not a part of as many clubs as I like, UAPB has made it easier and more fun to meet and network with my classmates and promote my business.”

“The college experience at UAPB has been fun! Even though I am not that far away from home, I do get homesick very often. One positive thing for me on campus is my friends. Knowing we are all going through a process for the last three years that we have never done before makes me feel like I am not alone. Whenever I am in need, I can call them, making me feel like I am home away from home.”

Sophomore Computer Science

MUSIC

By Gia Turner Staff Writer

I have created an Apple Playlist of my

11-15 (Final)-2023.indd 5

Freshman Criminal Justice

Sophomore Multimedia Communication

B Section

Freshman Pre Nursing

UAPB student shares the power of playlists As a dancer and curated for music I keep relaxing after a long day music lover, I always in the loop. of classes. seek releases from my Sitting in my car lisOne great way to favorite artists and new tening to this playlist, I harness the power of voices. watched my peers walk music is by creating a I don’t know about to class with AirPods personalized playlist. you, but when I discover or blasting music from College is a time new music, I replay it their cars. It makes me for exploration and until I can’t stand to wonder what my fellow self-discovery. Unforhear it. peers could be listening tunately, those things Over the past few to. can get pretty stressmonths, several new Music is an essential ful and overwhelming. songs and albums have part of many college stu- One thing that can make favorite songs and caught my attention and dents’ daily lives. Music those stressful semesters explains how college made it onto my “Me, can enhance our mood, a little more bearable is students can benefit Studio” playlist. I have a focus and motivation, a playlist. from creating their perplethora of playlists, but whether studying for If you’re interested sonalized playlists. this one was specifically exams, partying or in creating a playlist, Please contact us at arkansawyer@uapb.edu for questions and comments.

“I probably would not have gone to college if it were not for her. I wouldn’t be in college right now with the 1890 Program,” Young said.

When Young is not working, he enjoys watching television shows and reading.

His passion for reading started very young.

“Diar y of a Wimpy Kid” was one of his favorites as a young boy. He enjoyed the series so much that he maintained a vast collection of nearly every book.

Young’s future looks bright. Young interned with the National Crop Insurance S er vices (NCIS) this summer.

The first eight weeks were held through Zoom meetings. These meetings taught the company’s ins and outs and other expectations. Then, in July 2023, Young joined the company in Kansas for the hands-on portion of the internship.

After graduation, Young plans to leave his home state and venture out to someplace new.

His first career choice was to be a realtor. However, once he receives his degree, he plans to combine the two fields and become an agriculture realtor.

By staying focused and having an early bird mentality, Isaiah Young is an excellent example of a UAPB student with his eye on the prize and a bright future ahead.

keep in mind a few things.

First, think about the purpose of your playlist. Are you looking to boost productivity, reduce stress, or create a positive atmosphere?

Once you’ve identified your goal, start compiling songs that fit the bill.

Don’t be afraid to mix it with different genres and styles – the more variety, the better!

Organizing your playlist has no right or wrong way – it’s all about what works best for you. Some personalized playlists call for all or one genre or artist, but variety helps me with complacency.

Finally, don’t forget to share your playlist with others. Whether through social media, email or a streaming platform like Apple Music, sharing your playlist can be a great way to connect with others and showcase your taste in music. Even if it may sound strange, a single verse or melody you share could impact someone’s life.

Creating a playlist can be a powerful tool for college students. Whether you’re looking to boost productivity, reduce stress, express yourself or stay connected with others, music has the power to take you wherever you need to go!

My playlist has helped ease my mind after a brutal test or jam-packed day of classes. I’m sure most of us can say the same, but for those of you who might need some tunes, I got you! Contact me. You can listen to some of favorite newest releases.

11/16/23 8:22 AM

2B

The Arkansawyer

Life/Entertainment

Established 1929

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

WWW.ARKANSAWYERONLINE.COM

Love it or hate it; feelings A movie review: run high over candy corn come Barbie Cruel joke for trick-or-treaters or coveted seasonal delight? The great Halloween debate over candy corn is on.

Compiled by Arkansawyer staff from AP Newsroom

In the pantheon of high-emotion candy, the classic shiny tricolor kernels in autumn’s white, orange and yellow are way up there. Fans and foes alike point to the same attributes: its plastic or candle-like texture (depending on whom you ask) and the megasugar hit it packs.

“I am vehemently pro candy corn. It’s sugar! What is not to love? It’s amazing. It’s like this waxy texture.

You get to eat it once a year. It’s tricolor. That’s always fun,” comedian Shannon Fiedler gushed on TikTok. “Also, I know it’s disgusting.

Candy corn is objectively gross, but that’s what makes it good.”

Or, as Paul Zarcone of Huntington, New York, put it: “I love candy corn even though it looks like it should taste like a candle. I also like that many people hate it. It makes me like it even more!”

Love it or loathe it, market leader Brach’s churns out roughly 30 million pounds of candy corn for the fall season each year, or enough to circle planet Earth about five times, the company says. Last year, that amounted to $75 million of $88.5 million in candy corn sales, according to the consumer research firm Circana.

When compared to top chocolate sellers and other popular confections, candy corn is niche. But few other candies have seeped into the culture quite like these pointy little sugar bombs.

While other sweets have their haters (we’re looking at you Peeps, Circus Peanuts and Brach’s Peppermint Christmas Nougats), candy corn has launched

This image shows a bowl of candy corn in Westchester County, N.Y., on Oct. 23. (AP Photo/Julia Rubin)

a world of memes on social media. It inspires home decor and fashion.

It has its knitters and crocheters, ombre hairdos, makeup enthusiasts and nail designs.

And it makes its way into nut bowls, trail mixes, atop cupcakes and Rice Krispie treats. Vans put out shoes emblazoned with candy corn, Nike used its color design for a pair of Dunks, and Kellogg’s borrowed the flavor profile for a version of its Corn Pops cereal.

Today, kids delight in stacking candy corn in a circle point to create corncob towers. As for nutrition, 19 candy corns amount to about 140 calories and 28 grams of sugar. Many other Halloween candy staples are in the same ballpark.

Ingredient-wise, it couldn’t be more straightforward. Candy corn is sugar, corn sy r up, confe c t ioner’s glaze, salt, gelatin, honey and dyes.

“It’s not any sweeter than much other candy, and I’ve tasted every candy there is,” said Richard Hartel, who teaches candy science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Hartel’s students spend time in the lab making candy. The candy corn lab is among

his most popular, he said, because it’s fun to make. His unscientific poll of the nine seniors who last made candy corn showed no strong feelings on eating it.

“It’s the flavor, I think, that puts some people off. It sort of tastes like butter and honey. And some people don’t like the texture, but it’s not that much different than the center of chocolate-covered buttercream,” he said.

Candy corn fans have their nibbling rituals.

Margie Sung is a purist who lives in New York. She’s been partial since childhood to the original tricolor kernels. She eats them by color, starting with the white tip and a warm cup of tea or coffee. “To this day, I swear the colors taste different,” she laughed.

Aaron Sadler, the

Sylar Murry checks out the scary clown on display Friday afternoon, Oct. 20, at Spirit Halloween in Jonesboro, Ark. (The Jonesboro Sun via AP/Nena Zimmer)

corn. He keeps stashes at home and in a desk drawer at his office.

“My fiancée can’t stand that I like candy corn,” he said. “I buy it, and I get this look of disdain, but I don’t care. I just keep plugging on.”

Sadler has been a partaker since childhood. How does he describe the texture and flavor? “Sugary bliss.”

He’ll keep buying candy corn until mid-November. “It’s 50 percent off after Halloween. Of course, I’m going to buy it,” Sadler chuckled.

Jennifer Walker, who lives in Ontario, Canada, called candy corn “big ole lumps of dyed sugar. There’s no flavor.”

Her Ontario compatriot in Sault Ste. Marie, Abby Obenchain, also isn’t a fan.

She equates candy corn with childhood memories of having to visit her pediatrician, who kept a bowl on hand.

“A bowl of candy corn looks to me like a bowl of old teeth, like somebody pulled a bunch of witch’s teeth out,” said Obenchain, 63.

Candy corn isn’t just a candy, said 29-yearold Savannah Woolston in Washington, D.C. “I’m a big fan of mentally getting into each season, and I feel like candy corn is in the realm of pumpkin spice lattes and fall sweaters,” she said. “And I will die on the hill that it tastes good.”

46-year-old spokesperson for the mayor in Little Rock, Arkansas, doesn’t share his candy

This story was originally written by Leanne Italie, AP Entertertainment Writer, and was published on Oct. 24, 2023.

Historical Halloween Spending

By Tamesha Monk Staff Writer

As people flooded the theaters, dressed in their best pink outfits to watch the “Barbie” movie, they soon realized that there was more to this movie than meets the eye.

The Barbie franchise is known for its family-friendly playfulness and plot, but this live-action film showcased more serious issues, such as feminism, social norms, confidence, relationships and more.

Throughout the movie, Barbie is shown having mental breakdowns and physical struggles with her purpose in life. The film takes the audience on a journey of a woman living as a ‘material girl’ and transitions to what it is like living as a woman in a patriarchal society.

Though most Barbie films over the years have portrayed Barbie as an empowering figure for young girls all over the world, this movie sparked many conversations.

According to recent X (formerly known as Twitter) posts, some

to the emotion of always having ‘things together’ or having a major skill in order to be successful, but the movie perfectly displayed how soft skills can make a great leader.”

The impact this film had on a large variety of people was astounding.

Some women said they felt that they were represented well and in a positive light. However, other people may feel a little bit differently.

Forbes Magazine’s Erik Kain said, “For the most part, I genuinely enjoyed Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling’s dolls-to-life flick, but I think they didn’t quite stick the landing when it came to the overarching message, which felt both dated and at times cloying and ham-fisted.”

So, while some movie watchers were looking at the messages and themes of the movie, others were paying more attention to the acting.

Many people patiently waited for this “Barbie” movie to take to some streaming platforms, as it can be a learning experience for everyone who watches it.

Overall, moviegoers seemed to enjoy their experience and were not

An attendee dressed as Barbie poses during New York Comic Con at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on Oct. 12, 2023, in New York. (Photo by Charles Sykes/Invision/AP)

people felt it was not a movie for kids; others saw it as an educational film for their children.

Many women shared their thoughts about the film on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.

Kaise Muldrow, a student at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, shared how the movie impacted her differently. She said, “I truly enjoyed the ‘Barbie’ movie.” The movie really opened my eyes

upset with the outcome of their movie experience when watching the ‘Barbie’ movie, as it got an 88 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a movie rating website, a 7.1 rating on IMDb, and a 4 out of 5 rating on Common Sense Media.

Due to the high ratings and the high impact this movie had on its audience, it is worth the time and money. If you aren’t a moviegoer, it is worth watching while it is on streaming networks.

UPCOMING EVENT

Total Halloween Spending Since 2018

Y$12.2B

2023 2022

Y$10.6B

2021

Y$10.1B

2020

Y$8B

2019

Y$8.8B

2018

Y$9B

Source: National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics 2023 Halloween Survey.

Arkansas’ most popular Halloween candy 1. Butterfinger 2. Jolly Ranchers 3. M&M’s Source: 2017 Morning Consult National Tracking Poll.

11-15 (Final)-2023.indd 6

www.candystore.com

11/16/23 8:22 AM

On This Page Read more about UAPB sports briefs, including soccer, golf, football and basketball.

Established 1929

Sports The Arkansawyer

On This Page UAPB golf team made the first NCAA Championship tournament in the program’s history.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

WWW.ARKANSAWYERONLINE.COM

FOOTBALL

UAPB football team suffers defeat

by Alcorn State on homecoming

Slump continues for the football team as the season is winding down.

By Staff Writer

UAPB sophomore starting quarterback Chancellor Edwards attempts a pass during a game against Southern U. on Oct. 21, at Simmons Bank Field. He completed 19 of 37 passes for 221 yards. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

By Arkansawyer Staff Writer

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff football team suffered a 31-7 loss to Alcorn State before a 13,469 near-capacity homecoming crowd at Simmons Bank Field on Oct. 21.

The Golden Lions (1-6, 0-4 SWAC) have lost four consecutive

games with four more games remaining for the season.

After two unanswered touchdown scorings by Alcorn State, UAPB closed the lead to seven points on a 26-yard passing touchdown from sophomore quarterback Chancellor Edwards to senior Chrysten Cochran with five minutes and 27 seconds remaining in the

second quarter. That was the last scoring opportunity for the Lions.

Edwards completed 19 of 37 passes for 221 yards with a touchdown and interception for the Lions. Junior running back Joshua Edwards carried the ball nine times for 40 yards.

For Alcorn State, 6-foot-1 junior quarterback Aaron Allen completed 14 of 26

passes for 219 yards with two passing touchdowns and ran for a third touchdown with no interceptions. Senior halfback Jarveon Howard ran 14 times for 155 yards with one touchdown in the third quarter.

The Braves outgained the Lions by 523 to 254 yards. Both teams turned over the ball once.

C Section

The win gave Alcorn State (4-3, 3-1 SWAC) a three-way tie lead with Prairie View A&M and Southern in the Southwestern Conference West Division.

The deciding moment for UAPB came two minutes before halftime. Trailing 14-7, the Golden Lions turned the ball over, giving the Braves

a touchdown.

“To me, that was the momentum that flipped the game,” said UAPB head coach Lorenzo Hampton.

“We got to get our players locked in and be mentally tough because we are driving the ball, and then we get penalties. That puts us in a third-andlong position,” said Hampton.

The Golden Lions got back in action on Saturday, Oct. 28, when they hosted Jackson State.

After the game against Alcorn State, Hampton acknowledged the team needed to improve in specific areas, emphasizing the importance of resilience, hard work, and teamwork.

In preparing for the game against Jackson State, his focus was on defense.

“Last week, we didn’t do a good job stopping the run. This week, they [Jackson State] got two good running backs. We need to be able to stop the runs first to make them throw the football,” Hampton said.

On offense, Hampton said, “We need to protect the football from the quarterback position and create some holes for our running backs.

The receivers will have opportunities to win one-on-one battles because they play a lot of man coverage.”

Hampton said he was optimistic about the game aganst Jackson State. “The team needs to work harder and be more aggressive on both sides.

SEE FOOTBALL, 2C

UAPB golf team earns first NCAA Tournament bid in school history

The men’s golf team won four of the last six tournaments, including their first conference championship in the program’s history. It gave them an automatic bid to the NCAA Golf Championship tournament.

By Arkansawyer Staff Writer

Af te r f i n ish i ng strong in the season’s final stretch by winning four of the last six tournaments, the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff men’s golf team made its first NCAA Regional appearance at the Jimmie Austin OU Golf Club on May 15-17. The 14-team, 54-hole tournament was one of six NCAA Regionals.

The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champion UAPB was the 14th seed in the Normal Regional that included topseeded Texas Tech, Big 12 Conference champion Oklahoma, three programs from the SEC (Alabama, Ole Miss and LSU) and two from the ACC (Duke and Wake Forest). Other conference champions included Louisiana-Lafayette (Sun Belt), Princeton (Ivy) and North Carolina-Wilmington (CAA). Kansas and Colorado earned at-large berths from Big 12 and Pac-12 con-

11-15 (Final)-2023.indd 7

ferences, respectively.

UAPB was the only HBCU team participating in this year’s tournament.

UAPB qualified for the tournament automatically by winning its first conference championship in the program’s history in April. The Golden Lions set the S WAC c on f e re n c e record by defeating the field by 29 strokes at the Refuge Golf Course in Jackson, Miss.

The Golden Lions finished the tournament last with a three-round total of 62-over 926, 90 strokes behind the regional champion Alabama.

Team UAPB struggled from the beginning, shooting a 29-over 317 in the first round, trailing the leader Texas Tech (-10) by 39 strokes.

They performed better in the remaining two rounds, but by the time they finished the third round, they were trailing the winner, Alabama, by 90 strokes.

Individually, Junior Jaime Diez Moliner,

who had the team’s best tournament round on Wednesday at a 1-over 73, finished as the top Lion, tying for 61st overall at a 9-over 225.

He made five birdies and 15 bogeys with no double bogeys or worse in 54 combined holes.

Sophomore Ismael Garcia tied for 66th overall at a 12-over 228, and Senior Li Su tied for 69th at a 22-over 238.

Five teams advanced to the NCAA finals in Scottsdale, Ariz., where 30 teams from the six Regionals competed for the title.

No. 3 seed Alabama led the field at a 28-under par 836 (281280-275), followed by host Oklahoma at a 25-under 839, Colorado at a 23-under 841, top-seed Texas Tech at a 22-under 842 and Duke at 21-under 843.

In an interview with Fox 16 News in Little Rock during the NCAA Selection Show on May 3, SWAC coach of the year Roger Totten praised the team and players. “I’m so proud of the kids. I’m so

UAPB golf team members posed for this photo at the Pine Bluff Country Club. From left: Ismael Garcia, Angel Perez, Li Su and Kohlin Hicks. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

proud of the university,” said Totten. “We earned it because we did it the right way. We worked in practice and preparation, going to class, and everything we got we earned it. There were no givens.”

Senior Li Su said the team’s chemistry is a key factor to the team’s success. “Most of us stayed together as the same unit.

We see each other every day. We go to lunch and dinner together and go to classes together. That is an unparalleled technique. The combination of talent and bond has helped with what we’re able to accomplish.”

“Having firsthand access and playing alongside top collegiate golfers helped us strive to be our best,” added Su.

The golf team was recognized at the convocation.

11/16/23 8:22 AM

On This Page

The Arkansawyer

On This Page

Sports

Read more about UAPB football and soccer stories.

Established 1929

UAPB women’s basketball team announces 20232024 schedule.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023

FOOTBALL

2C

WWW.ARKANSAWYERONLINE.COM

Soccer team drops 0-1 decision to conference leader, Southern U.

> continued from 1B

UAPB SOCCER

UAPB junior running back Joshua Edwards tries to break the tackle from an Alcorn State linebacker, Stemarian Edwards.

(Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

“My focus for this week is for them to go out there and give great efforts, play with great techniques and have a great discipline,” Hampton said. “We got to do a better job on our double team and knowing our assignments. We got to be communicating with offensive lines.”

“We are a young football team. We are not as experienced as we need to be. But, we are getting better.

Hasn’t shown on the scoreboard or for the record. But we’ve got a great opportunity this week,” Hampton said.

Sophomore quarterback Edwards,

making his first start this season, remained confident for Saturday’s game against Jackson State and the remaining games.

“I trust my team,” he said in an Arkansas Democrat-Gazette article. “I trust my offensive line. I trust my receivers and running backs to make plays with me. I just trusted the guys, so I just tried to come out and execute. We didn’t execute as we wanted, but we’ll look forward to next week,” Edwards said.

UAPB lost to Jackson State 14-40 and all remaining games to end the season.

UAPB’s sophomore forward Ashley McGuire walks by Southern players celebrating their winning goal in the second half. The loss dropped UAPB’s record to 9-8 overall and 4-4-0 in SWAC play. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

UAPB soccer team fell 1-0 at home to Southern on Friday, Oct. 20 at Pumphrey Soccer Complex.

Game Summary: • • • • •

The Lady Golden Lions and the Lady Jaguars ended the first half scoreless.

Southern’s senior forward Alyssa Terry scored the game-winning goal with an assist by junior midfielder Tori Thomas at the 69-minute mark.

Makaila Riedel led the team with seven saves.

The Lady Lions recorded eight shots in the loss, five on goal.

UAPB had eight shots, five on goal, while facing 14 Southern shots, eight on goal.

SWAC Women’s Soccer Championship:

• • • Players gather in Pumphrey Soccer Complex before the game against Southern on Oct. 20 at Pumphrey Soccer Complex. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

The championship tournament played on Nov. 2 - Nov. 5 at Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, Texas.

No. 5 seed Lady Lions lost to No. 4 seed Texas Southern 0-3 in match two of the Quarterfinals on Nov. 2.

Grambling State University defeated 2-seed Jackson State 2-1 in the final game to claim the SWAC title.

UAPB women’s basketball schedule features several marque games UAPB News

Sophomore quarterback Chancellor Edwards made his starting quarterback debut on in a loss against Southern.

He had 221 passing yards with one touchdown and no interception in his career start. Edwards was 19-for-37 with a 51.4 pass completion rating. (Arkansawyer/Staff photographer)

Alcorn State senior running back Aaron Allen runs close to the goal line in the game against UAPB. He completed 15 of 28 passes for 166 yards and ran for 44 yards. (Arkansawyer/ Staff photographer)

11-15 (Final)-2023.indd 8

After a historic run with a second-place finish in the SWAC championship tournament back in March, Coach Dawn Thornton and company anticipate what should be an exciting season for the UAPB women’s basketball team.

Thornton enters her fifth season with the program and expects to take the excitement of the team’s play to a higher level. Returning more than 10 players from a season ago, the team’s chemistry should gel very well.

The Lady Lions opened the season on the West Coast as they took on Oregon State (Nov. 6) and Oregon (Nov. 8).

After a little more than a week off, UAPB defends the den for the first time at H.O. Clemmons Arena, as they will host Texas A&M-Texarkana in their home opener (Nov. 18).

Following the Thanksgiving holidays,

the Lady Lions will play in the Van Chancellor Classic tournament in Katy, Texas, to take on Tulsa (Nov. 24) and Power-5 opponents Mississippi State (Nov. 25) and Clemson (Nov. 26).

UAPB then returns to the Natural State for in-state competition as they hit the road to face Arkansas State (Nov. 28) before returning home to host Arkansas Baptist (Dec. 1).

The Lady Lions head back to Texas for the second time during non-conference play to battle SMU (Dec. 4) and North Texas (Dec. 6).

For the third straight season, UAPB will face in-state rival and SEC opponent, Arkansas (Dec. 10) before returning home for another exciting contest, welcoming Ole Miss to Pine Bluff (Dec. 21). This will be back-to-back seasons the Lady Lions have hosted an SEC/Power-five opponent in H.O. Clemmons Arena.

The Lady Lions hope to carry the season’s momentum into 2024 as

UAPB Coach Dawn Thornton enters her fifth season with the Lady Lions. (The Commercial/Wade Event Photography)

they travel to McNeese State on New Year’s Eve for their final non-conference match up.

UAPB transitions into conference play after the new year with Alabama A&M (Jan. 6) and Alabama State (Jan. 8) coming to town.

Following those games, the Lady Lions travel to Texas to face Texas Southern (Jan. 13) and Prairie View (Jan. 15) before returning to H.O. Clemmons to meet Florida A&M (Jan. 20) and Bethune Cookman (Jan. 22).

Near the midway

point of conference play, the Lady Lions go on a three-game road trip to Southern (Jan. 27), Grambling State (Jan. 29), and Mississippi Valley State (Feb. 3). Alcorn State (Feb. 10) then visits UAPB before the defending SWAC champions Jackson State (Feb. 12) arrives.

Three of the final seven regular-season games will be at home, and following the season will be the SWAC championships in Birmingham, Ala., from March 13 to March 16.

11/16/23 8:23 AM