April 18, 2017

TUESDAY APRIL 18, 2017 VOLUME 106 ISSUE 31

DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911

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PHOTO BY JAMIE DORSEY

ANONYMOUS ARTICLE SHINES NEGATIVE LIGHT ON GREEK LIFE

Cole Evans, Sophomore Marketing, and Sigma Chi members raise money in the Quad on April 12.

By Paola Esquivel-Oliveros Lifestyle Reporter @paolaoliveros An article written by an anonymous sorority member at Texas State surfaced the internet and received a lot of backlash from Greek and non-Greek students.

The article was published early March on Total Frat Move, a college lifestyle website.

In the article, the anonymous writer mentioned how Greek life at Texas State had taken a turn for the worse after four fraternities were suspended due to a party linked to the death of an Alpha Delta Pi sorority member, Jordin PHOTO BY NATHALIE COHETERO

Taylor.

The anonymous writer said the only fraternities left were “guys who play WoW (World of Warcraft) on weekends and smell like cheese puffs, lotion and Kleenex.”

She also said if things continue the way they are, Greek life on campus would no longer exist and questioned

Texas State Jowers Center has experienced an increasing number of vandalisms throughout the past two academic years.

Graduate enrollment on the rise

By Ashley Skinner Assistant News Editor @Ash_Marie54 As the semester comes to an end, enrollment at Texas State is rising and is continuing to break records.

The university’s enrollment as of fall 2016 was 38,808 but overall, the Graduate College has seen a dramatic continuous increase over the last few years.

In fall of 2016, the Graduate College admitted 3,515 students—a 9.1 percent increase from 2015.

“The President’s cabinet sets a new student target, which is what we shoot for,” said Gary Ray, associate vice president for enrollment management and marketing. “Typically, we shoot for a 1.5

percent undergrad growth and 3 percent for graduate growth. This allows the university to adjust for growth and to accommodate those students.”

Dr. Andrea Golato, dean of the Graduate College, believes this increase is partially due to the implementation of new degree programs. Recently, a Master’s of Science in Respiratory Care degree program via distance education has been added to the department.

“Whenever you start a new degree program, you have a new cohort of students come,” Golato said. “Masters is usually about 25-30 students, and then the next year you have another 25 or 30.”

PAGE 2 EDUCATION

PAGE 3 GREEK

Vandalism runs rampant in Jowers

By Katie Burrell Senior News Reporter @KatieNicole96

Texas State’s Undergraduate Admissions Center reports an enrollment of 33,480 undergraduate students, making it the fourth largest public university in Texas.

who would want to come to Texas State.

The controversial article was taken down from Total Frat Move, but had already spread throughout the Texas State community.

Lauren Bogard, public relations sophomore and Gamma Phi sorority member, said the article does not show the true values of Greek life and is insensitive toward the student who died.

“The article does not reflect how the rest of Greek life is or thinks,” Bogard said. “Going out to party is not the reason people join a fraternity or sorority.”

Bogard said a lot of misconceptions associated with Greek life came from the article.

“People who are not involved in Greek life don’t know what true values we uphold, and when things like this article come out, it gives those outsiders a bigger incentive to believe that partying and going out is all we care about,” Bogard said.

Cesar Leon, electronic media and Beta Upsilon Chi fraternity member, said parties, drugs and poor academics are labels people have grown to attribute to Greek life.

“Fraternities and sororities have core values they stand by,” Leon said, “For example, my fraternity doesn’t do underage drinking, we have to maintain a certain GPA and we have to be full-time students.”

Leon said he didn’t join Greek life because of the parties, but rather to be involved in the community.

"The biggest thing that (vandals) love to do is take out the fire extinguishers and spray them all over the place."

-Marcus Hendry The building—located on the banks of the river at Sewell Park—had more than 20 accounts of vandalism since 2015, according to a report given to faculty senate. Four of the total incidents happened from January-April 2017.

The most recent incident occurred on the weekend of March 31. Ting Liu, associate professor, reported a lab room was broken into and tampered with. Lui found boxes, ripped fabric and supplies strewn across the floor.

Nothing was determined missing.

Marcus Hendry, facilities coordinator, began noticing incidents of vandalism in 2015. He said these occurrences

typically correlate with the spring and summer seasons and usually take place during weekends when Sewell Park is populated with community members.

Otto Glenewinkel, UPD officer, was a respondent for one of the reported cases. He said recent incidents of vandalism in Jowers have not been reported to UPD. “From what I remember, the majority of the incidents occurred while school was out, not necessarily Texas State, but San Marcos ISD,” Glenewinkel said. “That’s when we would notice a big uptake in acts of criminal mischief inside the building.”

Glenewinkel said UPD had increased patrol in Sewell Park and the Jowers area in previous years after receiving reports, but without the continuance of these reports, they cannot justify taking it further.

Additionally, Jowers is a shared-use facility between the Department of Health and Human Performance, the athletics department, campus recreation and club sports. With various events in the center, there is access from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and nearly every weekend, Hendry said.

PAGE 2 VANDALISM

City takes steps to assess storm damage

By Ashley Skinner Assistant News Editor @Ash_Marie54 A joint effort between the city of San Marcos and Hays County has resulted in creation of a survey for residents to report damage after the April 11 storm

brought high winds, hail and lightning to the city.

Last week’s storm reached up to 70 mph winds and brought pea-sized hail.

Additionally, San Marcos received between 4-6 inches of rain.

“One of the ways we get accurate historical data on storms, their oaths and

the damage they cause is from reports from homeowners and business owners about damage to their property,” said Justin McInnis, assistant emergency management coordinator for Hays county.

Three homes have reported water damage and The San Marcos Public

Library sustained damage. The city created the survey aiming to calculate data of other residents who have experienced damage in their homes or businesses.

Decoud breaks school record

Stay Connected

PAGE 3 CITY

By Brooke Phillips Sports Reporter @brookephillips_

PLAY PREVIEW PAGE 3 THEATRE

Although junior high jumper Chelsie Decoud dedicates a lot of time to practicing and training on the track, off of the field is where she enjoys learning skills and furthering her talents.

PAGE 7 TRACK AND FIELD

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GRANT

Faculty Senate pushes for admission to federal grant program

By Jonathan Gonzalez News Reporter @Jonny_Gonzalez_

on the format of an institution’s proposal submitted to the Department of Education.

Currently, the McNair Program serves 18 higher learning institutions across Texas including University of North Texas, University of Texas at Austin and St. Edward's University.

Sonia Briseno, assistant director of the McNair Scholars Program at St. Edward’s University, said the university obtained the program in 2004. Since then, the university has served over 183 students through the program, which Briseno believes has been helpful to low-income, first generation college students.

“For many of them, they don’t know what a graduate degree means for them and what they need to do set themselves up for those opportunities,” Briseno said.

Participants who are underrepresented—according to the language of the Higher Education Act of 1965 from which the TRIO programs derive— must be low-income, first-generation college students with an emphasis on recruiting Black, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaskan Native, Native Hawaiian, Native American and Pacific Islanders.

“I am part Native Hawaiian, but I grew up in West Texas, and I never really felt connected to my roots,” said Amy Ontai, St. Edward’s McNair scholar. “I saw this as a wonderful opportunity to give back to the Native Hawaiian community, by allowing a greater representation of Native Hawaiians in doctoral

degrees.”

Access to McNair funds is not limited to only those born in the U.S. The program is available to citizens, permanent residents and anyone in the U.S. for reasons that prove intent to become permanent residents.

Other criteria taken into account for the program include a review of the student’s academic background, faculty recommendations and a personal statement written by the student outlining his/her research goals.

Although the program only helps students throughout their undergraduate years, those involved in the program keep connected with the McNair faculty that helped guide them through their academic careers.

“They continue to check up on me and provide me help with applications,” said Isavannah Reyes, St. Edward’s McNair scholar. “Without their help, I am not sure I would be as motivated or prepared to apply to graduate school.”

Grants are awarded in five-year cycles with annual performance reviews. Over $40 million will be allotted for the 2017 yearly budget for the McNair Program at the national level.

There are an estimated 164 institutions that will be awarded funds for the McNair program during the 201718 school year, averaging an estimated $226,600 award per institution.

Depending on the size of the cohort admitted at each institution, the average award for each recipient of the McNair scholars comes out to $9,064.

officer, who helps recruits find funding for school.

“The Graduate College, individual departments and the Texas State system provides many opportunities for scholarships,” Golato said. “Funding is always the hardest part about going back to school, but we try and make it as obtainable as possible."

The Graduate College wants to not only recruit new students, but retain admitted students from start date to end date.

“Sometimes it’s hard for full time professionals who come back to get their Masters or Doctoral degree, to finish school in one go,” Golato said.

“We are providing support for these graduate students, and we always let

them know that resources on campus, such as the writing center, are available to them and not only undergrads.”

Golato is hopeful for the future of the Graduate College, and is working on developing more degree programs in the upcoming semesters as well as holding additional information sessions.

“One thing students should know is that anyone who is interested in attending graduate college, here or elsewhere, can come to the Graduate information sessions,” Golato said. “We are extremely supportive of anyone pursuing a graduate degree.”

would not be included.

When the incidents first began, Hendry notified UPD, who took reports and photographed the scenes. As the vandalism continued for over two years, Hendry and other faculty members in Jowers stopped reporting incidents to UPD and began to patrol the gyms over weekends, often kicking out local high schoolers.

The reports conducted

by UPD noted footprints left in fire extinguisher residue and concluded the culprits were between 11 and 13 years of age.

The police department does not have any physical evidence to press charges against specific individuals.

The Faculty Senate is creating an application to bring the McNair Program, a federal program providing funds and other resources to disadvantaged students wishing to pursue graduate studies, to the university.

The McNair Program is a discretionary, competitive grant which offers advancement through research and other scholarly opportunities geared toward earning a Ph.D. “We’ve got a variety of academic support offerings already for students of different concentrations that are funded through this funding mechanism,” said Dr. Elizabeth Bishop, faculty senate member. “However, we don’t have the McNair (program), and the McNair is like the jewel in the crown.”

The McNair Program is part of the federal TRIO programs designed and supported by the U.S. Department of Education, and encourages the success of underrepresented individuals at post-secondary programs with the ultimate goal of earning a Ph.D. “(The program) is about education and social transformation,” Bishop said. “It gives us a chance to prove the quality of what we’re doing in the classroom by sending our students out to the best Ph.D.-granting institutions across the country.”

The program is designed to encourage growth in STEM fields. However, it may be open to other fields, depending

FROM FRONT EDUCATION The Graduate College directors have been visiting fairs, other programs and information sessions across the state to increase their advertising and recruiting efforts. They have begun a new initiative to provide funding to specific departments to recruit independently.

“Most students will be working closely with faculty members within their area and would rather be recruited by the degree program directly,” Golato said. “Our faculty is very active, and I am very grateful for the departments and staff to have engaged in the recruiting process.”

Other additions to the Graduate College are the communications officer, who helps recruits connect with the department, and the external fellowship

FROM FRONT VANDALISM The instances of vandalism range from breaking into vending machines, breaking signs and leaving graffiti to emptying out full fire extinguishers in the gyms. The university has replaced at least 10 extinguishers, Hendry said.

“It’s predominantly nuisance mischief stuff. The biggest thing that (vandals) love to do is take out the fire extinguishers and spray them all over the place,” Hendry said. “It leaves a residue, as it has that fire retardant stuff that gets in everything.”

Hendry said the custodial staff works hard to remove the extinguisher’s residue from the gaps in the gym floor, and it typically causes damage.

Hendry, among other faculty under HHP, has requested the addition of working security cameras to all seven entrances of the building. This would require an estimated investment of $5,000 to $7,000, according to information provided by Hendry. The request was never fulfilled.

The department then offered to contribute funds toward the installment out of its own funding but was later denied.

At the April 5 Faculty Senate meeting, Hendry attended with intent to file another request for cameras but again was denied.

“I do not have a request for cameras from Jowers,” said Joanne Smith, vice president of student affairs. “The only reason I would have it is if it was approved through the line.”

Smith said the request would have to be approved by the department chair of HHP and the provost before she could sign off on it.

Dr. Gene Bourgeois, provost and vice president for academic affairs, said there will be no addition of security cameras to Jowers, but the university will consider increasing police patrol.

Bourgeois spoke with Smith and Eric Algoe, vice president of finance and support services, before attending the meeting to determine if the school’s new campus master plan intended to add security cameras but was told it

The University Star

Tuesday, April 18 , 2017 | 3

THE PULSE

Denise Cervantes Lifestyle Editor @cervantesdenise

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

FROM FRONT CITY Bonham Elementary had water damage in three-fourths of the building; Bowie Elementary had water damage in four classrooms.

“Having this data helps Emergency Management prioritize response, manage assets and pull together outside resources based on the responses we receive from homeowners and business owners,” McInnis said. “If your property sustained damage from flooding or other rain damage, winds, lightning, etc., on that stormy Tuesday, it would be

helpful for us to know about it.”

Crews worked until approximately 3 a.m. April 12 to repair the 1,300 plus power outages. No neighborhood evacuations were called, and rivers did not reach flood stage.

“The San Marcos crews worked hard under tough circumstances like they always do,” said Trey Hatt, communications specialist. “They worked long hours and finally were able to get power restored to those areas affected.”

Various buildings at Texas State were

affected by power outages, including Jones Dinning Center.

“Water intrusion was reported in about 10 out of 200 university buildings, and we are still assessing the damages,” said Matthew Flores, assistant vice president for university advancement-communication.

“Twenty-one buildings were without electrical service during the outage. The service was lost at 12:03 p.m. and restored at 1 p.m.”

The university is still assessing all damages from the storm, and does not

yet have a dollar amount as to what it will cost to be repaired.

Reporting damage to the Emergency Management is a voluntary act and does not replace informing an insurance agency. The survey, “Report Storm Damage,” can be accessed at www.HaysInformed.com under the Emergency Links tab or at www.sanmarcostx.gov/ reportstormdamage.

“Being in a sorority is not just about wearing your letters or going out,” Griswold said. “It is about actually getting to know people and having people there to help you out and give you advice.”

Amanda Ray, exercise and sport science sophomore and Delta Gamma sorority member, said the anonymous writer was not speaking for all Greek members.

“I hated how the article trashed on Greek life and focused on how Greek life is just a party life,” Ray said. “Every sentence she said was selfish.”

Ray said there are many things to be highlighted about Greek organizations.

“Me, being a Delta Gamma, we raised over $10,000 during our non-alcoholic, philanthropic event or the fall, Anchor Splash,” Ray said. “We also pair up with

fraternities to raise money as well.”

Ray said she hopes the article did not scare people from going through recruitment or make them feel indifferent about sororities and fraternities.

“Greek life is such a fun way to really enjoy college,” Ray said. “It has been great being a Delta Gamma so far, and it can only go up from here.”

FROM FRONT GREEK “Greek life is about brotherhood, having accountability, being there for each other, as well as uplifting and motiving each other,” Leon said.

Eva Griswold, nursing freshman and Delta Gamma sorority member, said she wants people who have negative misconceptions about Greek life to know only a small group of people think the same as the anonymous writer.

THEATRE

Theatre Preview: Enjoy a night of laughter with ‘Five Women Wearing the Same Dress’

By Ana De Loza Lifestyle Reporter @Sami_loza95 The spring semester comes to an end and the Department of Theatre and Dance will close its season with laughter by presenting “Five Women Wearing the Same Dress.”The show will run April 25-30 in the Theatre Center Mainstage.

The play is set in the early ‘90s and follows the conversation of five bridesmaids as they prepare for a wedding.

The women pass the time by discussing their different viewpoints on pressing social issues.

Michael Rau, assistant professor and director of the play, said he describes the play as a comedic personal look into each of the women’s lives.

“I think it is a play about imperfections and how imperfections can be both hilarious and tragic,” Rau said.

“You see the women make the wrong choices and sometimes that’s a hilarious thing, and often times that leads to heartbreak but you see a character study in each one of them.”

Anthony Hinderman, theatre junior, plays the role of Tripp, and said he hopes audiences can leave with a new profound message.

“One of the topics of the play is the role that expectations play in people’s life,” Hinderman said. “All of these women are finding out, in their own ways, that life is not how they thought it was supposed to be, and that it is fine. It’s one of the main themes in the show.”

Rau said the play was chosen this season because it highlights female characters rather than a male dominated cast, as most productions are.

“We wanted to give a primarily female-centric play that had very big, interesting roles,” Rau said. “I think that

set your summer

these five women are all really complicated characters and it is not all just either comedic or tragic, but they hit both of those areas and that makes it a big challenge for the actors."

Jordan Ford, theatre junior, plays the role of Frances who is one of the five women, and said the play is meant to bring uncomfortable topics to light.

“All the women are in a room talking about their viewpoints; one of them is part of the LGBT community, one of them is a very strict religious Christian and the others are not,” Ford said. “The women discuss all different issues and bring their opposing outlooks.”

Rau said one of the issues is sexual assault.

“April is sexual abuse awareness month; you know this play does deal with some of those themes,” Rau said.

“That was one of the issues that we wanted to address and talk about and give a forum, in which we say this is one

way in which these women are struggling with this issue.”

Rau said audiences will be able to find something to both laugh at and connect with.

“It’s a snapshot of 1993 more than anything else, so the audience will get a sense of ‘wow things were really different back then,’” Rau said. “People used homophobic language and talked about abuse in a way that, thankfully, we do not talk like that now.

"Audiences will walk away with a sense of how far we have come and also a sense of how universal some of these themes are, and how we still struggle with these issues to this day," Rau continued. "Almost like realizing that the past is the present and the present is the past.”

More details and ticket purchase can be found online.

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The University Star

PULSE/OPINIONS

Mikala Everett Opinions Editor @mikala_maquella

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

LIFE

PHOTO BY MELISSA UECKERT

How Bobcats cope with long distance relationships

By McKenzie Cunningham Lifestyle Reporter @kenz_you_not_ Long-distance relationship is a term many people are familiar with, but few fully understand.

Many Bobcats are in long distance relationships where they find their significant others miles away.

Jacquelyn O’Brien, interdisciplinary studies sophomore, has been in a longdistance relationship with her boyfriend for two years, and they have been dating for four. Her boyfriend is currently in service school for the United States Military.

“You kind of fall in love over and over because you forget what it’s like to be together,” O’Brien said. “Time is more precious and appreciated when we do get to see each other again.”

O’Brien and her boyfriend have learned to make the relationship work by dedicating time for each other and trying various communication methods.

“We both have a journal that we write in when we are apart, and when we see

each other we switch,” O’Brien said.

O’ Brien said it wasn’t easy at first, but over time she began to learn what works for her personal relationship.

In O’Brien’s case, the military chooses when she sees her boyfriend.

Taking a weekend off from work or school is not an opportunity this couple can take advantage of, but they have done what is possible to make it all worthwhile.

Other times, distance can be a few hours away from your loved one because of other circumstances like jobs or schooling. While Rebecca Stewart, interdisciplinary studies sophomore, attends Texas State, her boyfriend resides and works in Houston.

“I don’t hate long distance, but I don’t like it,” Stewart said. “If you’re having a bad day, you have to rely on a FaceTime date to cheer you up.”

Although long distance dating has its negatives, Stewart said it can also have its pros.

Stewart said she has more time to be productive, socialize, work and more.

“You have a lot of time to yourself,

Jacquelyn O’Brien shows a photo of her boyfriend who is enrolled in the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado.

but trust is everything,” Stewart said.

“You can’t live far away from someone if you can’t trust them to stay faithful.”

Naomi Coleman Medina, counselor at Texas State and Visionary Family Counseling in Buda, said trust is a vital trait to have in any relationship.

“Trust is critical because of those times when someone doesn’t return your phone calls,” Medina said. “If there is not trust, then each person is injured.”

Medina said people in long distance

OPINIONS

Say goodbye to online privacy

By John Lee Opinions Columnist @leeeeyonce Internet privacy is an ongoing issue as the world becomes more technologically intertwined. Anything and everything is done online, and steps need to be taken to protect sensitive information.

In 2016, the Federal Communications Commission passed rules and regulations to protect the privacy of Americans. Internet service providers such as Verizon, Comcast and AT&T were required to ask for user permission to collect and share consumer information. Things such as account login information, browsing history,

app usage and geo-location were protected.

However, President Trump signed a resolution that repeals these protections. Personal and intimate information can now be collected by internet or broadband providers. This means everything you do online can be viewed, collected and sold for online marketing purposes and monetary profit. Through this information, companies can create directed advertisements targeted toward consumers.

According to the Pew Research Center, a non-partisan American fact tank, 86 percent of Americans have taken steps to remove their digital footprints and 68 percent believe current laws are not good enough at protecting online

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privacy. If Americans feel this way, why is the government taking steps backwards?

“We’re talking medical information.

We’re talking passwords. We’re talking financial information. We’re talking college applications. There is nothing in today’s society that every one of us doesn’t do every day on the internet, and yet (companies are) going to get it,” said Michael Capuano, Massachusetts House Representative, during a speech on the House floor.

Companies should not be allowed to collect our data at all. There should have been a policy implemented for consumers to volunteer their information instead of the op-out policy. No one should have to ask their internet

relationships can come up with their own set of rituals—whether they are making nightly phone calls, FaceTiming every other day or writing letters.

However, Medina said long distance is less about the rituals and more about acceptance.

“Understand that each person has a life and they should have the freedom to see their friends,” Medina said. “(Couples shouldn’t be) letting miles define the relationship, but letting commitment do it instead.”

ILLUSTRATION BY HALEY PRIETO

service provider to not violate their online privacy—especially if that person is paying for the service.

The American government is required to get a warrant to search your house, car and person. Why should corporate companies be allowed to know and search our personal online information without us even knowing?

PAGE 5 INTERNET

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The Alamo Colleges District offers first-class courses at a great price.

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The University Star

OPINIONS

Tuesday, April 17, 2017 | 5 Mikala Everett Opinions Editor @mikala_maquella

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

FROM PAGE 4 OPINIONS The argument in favor of these rollbacks is that it creates an equal playing field in online advertising between internet companies like Google and Facebook. However, Americans may simply choose to limit their use of these companies or switch to other competitors like Bing. When consider-

ing everything broadband companies provide, it is much harder to hide personal activity from your internet provider, or go without internet at all in such a digitized world.

Online marketing is a great tool that can be used to increase sales. However, corporate companies should find

more ethical ways to implement these advertisements and not use the private information of the individuals they are trying to sell items to. Americans deserve to have their privacy protected— online information included.

-John Lee is a marketing freshman

EDUCATION

School choice will revive the Jim Crow Era

By Carrington Tatum Opinions Columnist @th3unt0uchable President Trump’s Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, has been confirmed and will begin to propose changes to the United States’s education system. The most notorious of those changes will be the implementation of a school choice voucher system to compete with public education.

The U.S. should not implement a school choice system, because it will only widen the gap between poor students and wealthy students.

The idea behind school choice is schools would have better resources since funding is only limited to the amount of money people donate to it, rather than what the government can afford to give. School choice also introduces competition between schools, which means institutions will continue to improve curriculum to outdo the rival school, which is a direct benefit to the students.

Additionally, since private schools

do not receive government funding, they are not subject to as much regulation as public institutions. Therefore, a student gifted in music can attend a school where most of the education is centered on learning music, rather than subjects they will likely never use.

While this may sound like a dream, there is one factor of school choice that is often left out of the conversa-

tion, and it is the issue of discrimination.

One triumph of the Civil Rights Era includes the desegregation of public schools. However, poverty disproportionately affected black communities more than white communities, and left black schools with outdated hand-medown tools.

Since the schools are privately funded, applicants are subject to whatever criteria and biases the admissions personnel may hold and what you have is a recipe for segregation and disparity in education.

Allowing private school administrators sovereignty over admissions opens the door for the wealthy to purchase the best resources for a school and place tuition at a price only the wealthy can afford. Thus, resulting in an ultimatum for the poor students and their parents. Either take out a loan for your primary and secondary education or settle for the school with the lesser resources.

Perhaps it is just me, but a student being in mountains of debt before they

reach college sounds absurd to me. A gifted student with a great work ethic may miss out on opportunities and greater challenges simply because they could not afford it.

If we allow this kind of rift to grow between poor and wealthy people when it comes to education, then we risk creating a picture reminiscent of America’s dark past.

Education should not be denied based on unnecessary, or sometimes uncontrollable, variables such as immigration status, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, nationality or income.

School choice has many more benefits and potential concerns beyond what is discussed. Secretary DeVos has yet to lay out any concrete plans for the implementation of school choice, but these are some major pitfalls I hope she will consider in the development of her education plans.

Next Great Generation.” In this book, the authors make impressively accurate predictions about the future of our generation.

For example, they correctly predicted that our generation would be more liberal. They also predicted that our generation would be less sensitive to race, meaning that millennials are less racist than the previous generations. The authors had their criticisms, but nonethe-

less, they kept their content centered on facts. It’s good to know that there are older individuals who don’t completely hold my generation in contempt.

However, I want to do something that is a little unpopular and in contrast to the column I’m responding to. The author of the column, in a stumbling attempt to redeem our generation, utterly fails to even highlight why these older generations even view us with such

contempt, to begin with. I know it may seem from our pretty little perspectives that the older generations are simply wrong about us, but unfortunately for our egos, their comments are not entirely unfounded.

ILLUSTRATION BY FLOR BARAJAS

-Carrington is an electronic media freshman

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

By K. Brandon Perez This is a response to the March 21 opinions column: “Millennials are destined to change the world.”

No other word in the English language brings me more grief than the word millennial. This name, was given to us and first coined by Neil Howe, in his groundbreaking novel authored with William Strauss,“Millennials Rising: The

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6 | Tuesday, April 18, 2017

The University Star

OPINIONS

Mikala Everett Opinions Editor @mikala_maquella

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

LGBTQIA

Representation in the 2020 census is vital for LGBTQIA equality

By May Olvera Opinions Columnist @yungfollowill Controversy sparked after it was reported the United States Census Bureau would include LGBTQIA individuals in the 2020 census, only to backtrack shortly after and once again exclude them. To a community that has dealt with erasure and lack of representation for the entirety of our nation’s history, this came as an unfair and devastating blow.

Response to these confusing reports has come in many forms. People are outraged, but there are also those who think because this community has never been represented by the census in the past, it is not a big deal the decision to include them has been reversed.

The issue with that mentality is it accepts the normalization of erasure simply because it has always been there.

It tells members of the LGBTQIA community they very literally do not count in this country.

Data collection is not many activists’ first concern; however, information collected by the U.S. Census helps determine the allocation of federal funds

for programs that could specifically help vulnerable communities.

According to the Williams Institute, 40 percent of homeless youth that seek help from federal agencies identify as part of the LGBTQIA community.

With a clearer demographic view of this community, funds may be more properly allocated in prevention services.

When it comes to policy, legislators who oppose LGBTQIA rights have the ability to cite often misleading and underfunded research that claims that the community is too small to have time and money spent on them.

With proper federal research, we can demand more accurate and effective arguments from our legislators.

To not be counted in the census sends the same message the Clinton administration’s infamous “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy did. The policy barred closeted LGBTQIA individuals from being discriminated against in the military, but did not allow them to openly serve. Both imply that we are only okay accepting people’s truest identity if they go out of their way to hide it, while straight, cisgender people go about their lives as the only ones

with the freedom to express themselves in that way, upholding an unfair, societally constructed power dynamic.

Any step we can take for heightened visibility of a vulnerable and historically invisible community is one we should strive for as a progressive community that cares for our neighbors. To be recognized by the government is a monumental step toward a more equal society.

Though blame for invisibility cannot be placed solely on the Trump administration, the argument “this is how we have always done it” simply will not cut it. Our LGBTQIA siblings need the fullest equality and

ILLUSTRATION BY FLOR BARAJAS

representation now, it is long overdue.

- May Olvera is a journalism junior

SAFETY

Don't be scaredy-cats, be safe

By Jakob Rodriguez Opinions Columnist @JakobRyRod Recent incidents at Bobcat Village and campus parking lots have left the University Police Department and administration labeled “reactive not proactive” regarding campus safety.

By utilizing apps and Student Government, UPD hopes to better serve students—we just need to listen.

“Security in the beginning was provided by one night watchman,” states the UPD website. The UT-Austin Tower shooting served as the catalyst for a fully operational campus police department by 1968.

Russel Boyd and Connor Clegg both campaigned for student body president on the promise of improving campus safety. But from what? Sure, we have had incidents here and there. Assaults have remained prevalent issues on any campus. But how many incidents should really make us look over our shoulders at night?

Whether you read up on it or not, crime and crime prevention occurs every day at Texas State. The Daily Crime and Fire Log, although not publicized like the UT-Austin’s Campus Watch, is proof of the reportable incidents.

UPD tries to remain transparent and visible on the happenings around campus.

Students have a right to know what is going around and simply directing students to the UPD website to see what went bump in the night or throughout the day illustrates the lack of true transparency between UPD and Texas State students.

Before and after the 2016 presidential elections, both political and racial tensions were at an all-time high around campus. Day after day, students flocked to the free speech zone to voice their opinions. However, after racist fliers circulated campus for the fourth time in three months, many students and parents began to question

campus safety.

“Colton and I were elected by a majority of about 200 students, however, we are here for the whole,” said Connor Clegg, student body president In my conversation with Clegg, he noted instead of attempting to fight the perception of fear on campus, we should take steps to foster a safer campus with added lighting in problem areas and strengthening relations between UPD and the student body.

The Clegg-Duncan administration also hopes to make reporting sexual assault easier and has been working with representatives of Not on My Campus to make it more than just a pledge and writing on your hand.

UPD briefs all incoming students at New Student Orientation on the Standard Response Protocol. Knowledge of the SRP is half the battle when dealing with an incident. The SRP breaks down what to do regarding the five biggest emergencies: lockdown, lockout, evacuation, a seek shelter situation and medical.

Currently, SRP is implemented locally throughout K-12 and at the university level in the event different agencies must respond to an incident.

It is far from the only thing UPD does to brief residents on campus safety.

The UPD hosts outreach events to try to connect with students such as Coffee with a Cop and Chat with the Chief. The UPD and Texas State will host an active shooter training in the summer, including multiple departments from both local and state departments.

Clearly, there is not a lack of effort or training surrounding campus safety.

The fault may lie in student interest.

UPD acknowledges when times change, so does the department. New advancements in technology, communication and a plethora of classes and programs offered by UPD allow its officers to maintain a working relationship with local, state and federal agencies to better serve students.

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New Student Government legislation has made keeping updated information on student contact information easier by introducing an extra step for class registration.

With so much going on in the world, campus safety almost feels like an afterthought. With added patrols, visibility and transparency, UPD and Student Government hopes to tackle this scaredy-cat mentality. Rest assured Bobcats, safety remains an important issue.

- Jakob R. Rodriguez is a journalism freshman

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However, text updates, timely warnings and the Bobcat Guardian App are severely underutilized by students.

Ignorance of the app’s existence and how to use it remains prevalent among many students. Consequently, Student Government has pushed legislation to make the Bobcat Guardian app part of new student orientation.

Students do not understand the importance and impact of the Bobcat Guardian app. Many simply disregard it because they may live off campus.

However, the app boasts a tracking feature everyone can take advantage of.

For instance, student organizations can use it to help keep track of members at large conferences and events.

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The University Star

SPORTS

Tuesday, April 18 , 2017 | 7 Lisette Lopez Sports Editor @lisette_1023

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

FROM FRONT TRACK AND FIELD

Chelsie Decoud: High jumping and high learning Although Chelsie Decoud, junior high jumper, dedicates a lot of time to practicing and training on the track, off of the field is where she enjoys learning skills and furthering her talents.

Decoud began her track and field career in seventh grade, but began high jump in eighth grade.

Decoud first started running hurdles, but with her height and ability to jump, she decided the high jump suited her best.

Although Decoud chose to high jump in college, she said volleyball has always been her favorite sport to play.

As a middle jumper, Decoud always had the ability to jump high. Playing other sports like volleyball and basketball made her realize track and field was what she was best at.

Decoud attended South Houston High School, but she is not originally from Texas. Decoud began calling Texas home after moving from New Orleans, Louisiana, when she was in the fifth grade.

It was fitting for Decoud to attend Texas State so she could be closer to her family.

Since becoming a Bobcat during her freshman year of college, Decoud has learned how to balance being a student and an athlete at the same time.

Being a part of the track and field team has meant a lot to Decoud, and she enjoys the perks that come along with it.

“My favorite part is traveling,” Decoud said. “Most times, the only places I’ve been to is because of track. I get to see more things and see the world.

One of my favorite places I’ve been to is Oregon.”

Being a college athlete has also al-

STAR FILE PHOTO

lowed Decoud to push herself into becoming the high jumper she desires to be.

“My greatest achievement in track is recently hitting my all time personal record,” Decoud said.

Decoud hit the 6 ft. and 1/4-inch mark, which broke the university’s record and became her personal best.

“It meant a lot to me to break that record because my mom doesn’t get to travel often,” Decoud said. “I’m always calling her after meets to tell her how I did, and that’s my favorite part. I sent her a video and said ‘this is the highest I’ve ever jumped’ and my parents are so proud of it.”

Decoud is majoring in psychology and minoring in public relations. She originally became interested in her major because one of her cousins finished graduate school in the psychology pro-

gram.

“She has a lot of books in her room from school and stuff,” Decoud said. “I like to read a lot and found some really interesting things and thought ‘I think I could do this. This is fascinating.’”

With a psychology degree, Decoud hopes to find a job to reward herself and others.

“I know people who are recovering after injuries and need people, because they get down or depressed,” Decoud said. “I want to be able to help people get through it. I’ve had a couple of injuries, and it throws you off mentally.”

Along with reading and studying, Decoud continues to work on her artwork.

Decoud has been drawing and painting in her free time since the sixth grade.

What started off as making doodles in binders and notebooks turned into one of her favorite hobbies.

One piece of artwork she is especially proud of was unplanned.

“If I see a lot of artistic stuff or if I see stuff that gives me ideas, I like to try it,” Decoud said. “I blow-dried some crayons and melted them, and then I turned it and it kind of looked like hair blowing in the wind. I ended up drawing a face and I wasn’t even doing anything on purpose, but it looked like my mom.”

Although Decoud has the skills and ability to be an artist, she does not want to make a career out of it.

While Decoud has big plans for the future and life after college, nothing is certain and she wants to keep all of her options open.

“If professional track is a path that I can take, then I would do it,” Decoud said. “If that doesn’t turn out, then I still want to have a backup plan and still be a part of the athletic field. It’ll be weird for me to be away from it since I did it for so long, so I’ll try to stay in that area.”

Although enduring the stress of school, being an athlete and keeping up with art can sometimes be overwhelming, Decoud does not let her positivity fall short. She always remembers one piece of advice from her mother.

“If I call my mom and I’m frustrated over something, she asks how I let them make me mad,” Decoud said. “She pretty much tells me don’t stress out about things that aren’t in your control. You can’t have anyone make you do anything, because you’re in control.”

Decoud plans to take control of her athletic skills, knowledge and artistic gifts to create a path that leads to her future.

GOLF

Sasikarn Somboonsup: From one world to another

By Anthony Flores Sports Reporter @BornToRun19 The pursuit of a good life often requires sacrifice. It requires leaving comfort and familiarity and jumping into a whole new culture.

For 18-year-old Sasikarn Somboonsup, freshman golfer, the pursuit meant traveling over 9,000 miles from Si Racha, Chonburi, Thailand to San Marcos and leaving behind her family and home.

Somboonsup comes from a family of golfers. Her retired father, mother and older sister all golf. Her family’s interest in golf helped encourage the athlete to take to the green herself.

“I started when I was eight years old,” Somboonsup said. “My father and my mother played golf. My sister started first and then I got interested.”

For her parents, the education of their three children took priority. Somboonsup’s older sister and brother attend schools in various locations far from home as well.

“I have one older sister. She studies in Minnesota,” Somboonsup said. “My brother is studying in Singapore.”

Finding the right school was a process for Somboonsup, who wanted the best environment as a collegiate athlete.

“We had someone look around the United States for good universities for athletes,” Somboonsup said. “I was accepted into three schools.”

Texas weather and a simple, but appreciated gesture from the Texas State coaching staff played important roles in Somboonsup choosing to join the Bobcat family.

“I received a nice post card from the coach,” Somboonsup said. “The weather here is perfect for golf. It’s always so warm and not cold.”

Before arriving to Texas State, Somboonsup was busy nurturing and improving her skills. She competed in the international scene as well as in her native land of Thailand, stacking up more than 30 top five finishes.

With this being the athlete’s first year

STAR FILE PHOTO

in the U.S., Somboonsup said it was difficult to make the adjustment to American life. The language barrier proved to be the first major obstacle to overcome.

“The first thing is the language because I didn’t speak English in Thailand, so I needed to adjust a lot,” Somboonsup said. “That’s why at first I was real quiet; I didn’t talk at all.”

Beyond the language barrier, Somboonsup couldn’t help but be intimidated by the sheer size of the U.S. The athlete said it was bigger than she expected.

Although psychology is her concentration, Somboonsup does not intend to work in the field. With the full support of her family, she has every intention of trying to go pro in golf.

Should that not work out, she would like to be her own boss.

“I want to try to go pro, I don’t really want to do something in psychology,” Somboonsup said. “If not, I want to maybe open my own business.”

Every athlete gets something different out of the game. Aside from the love of competition, the thrill of defeating opponents and the actual play, Somboonsup loves the sport in general.

“I love the mental and physical challenges of practicing, preparing and then actually playing,” Somboonsup said. “I enjoy the detailed challenges of preparation and practice before going out and competing.”

When she needs to get in the zone before competition, Somboonsup likes to keep it simple and calming.

“I always like to meditate before I compete,” Somboonsup said. “It helps put me in the right state of mind to go out and compete.”

When she isn’t on the green or in the golfer’s state of mind, she prefers a very simple but fulfilling way to relax.

“I just like to hang out with my friends at home,” Somboonsup said. “We’ll watch some movies or TV and maybe cook some food.”

At the end of the day, the 18-year-old is just another college student wading her way through life. However, despite the young age, she has something to prove.

“I want people to know how far I’ve come and what I’ve left behind to get here,” Somboonsup said.

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