AUG. 10, 2015 JAN. 25, 2016
VOL. 57 #3 VOL. 57 #19
If we build it,
will they South Alabama students come? ‘feel the Bern’ in Birmingham
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NEWS LIFE
LIFE SPORTS
Wheels for Elijah Freshman Do’s and Don’ts IMC presents Ryan Culwell Women’s basketball beats ULM
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OPINION OPINION Consider the abroad Source You can study
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JAN. 25, 2016
South Alabama estimated 2015 Senior Bowl impact $27 million Rigorous economic impact study of nationally-known sporting event benefits city, university and students By ALYSSA NEWTON Editor-In-Chief
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he Senior Bowl has been a staple of Mobile for more than 60 years, bringing in tourists, NFL scouts, NFL coaches and some of the most talented collegiate players from around the United States. With thousands of people flooding the streets of downtown Mobile for a week, the Port City makes million of dollars from those who come, but how much? That’s where South Alabama’s professor Christopher Keshock, Ph.D., and his students come in. “It takes a lot to define what an economic impact really is.” Keshock said. “A sporting event like this is different from any other economic impact.” Keshock, a former athlete before gaining his masters in business and doctorate in sports administration, headed up the research and composed a 135-page report. The report concluded that the monetary economic impact from the 2015 Reese’s Senior Bowl was approximately $27 million dollars. “Many reports will take general figures and apply the same thing to every single person attending the event, so you have these really inflated figures,” Keshock said. “You can’t claim every person spends the same
amount. “These reports are really looking at the economic contribution where they will include the people within the impact region, locals. You can’t do that.... They say that every person at that event is spending the same amount and that’s just not the case.” Keshock, who has conducted multiple economic impact studies, said that the only “true way” to study an economic impact is to survey those in attendance, and that is where his students first come into play. “Economic impact is when we really start dicing everything up,” Keshock said. “We take our students and we send them out. Then we take the data they collect and slice it up even more. We really focus on true economic tourists—those that are in the city just for the Senior Bowl.” According to the report, revenue created from sales tax only from tourists was between $637,665 and $722,194 in the Port City. If you combined the city, county and state tax, it estimates up to $1.8 million dollars. “The new money being generated is from true economic tourists,” Keshock said. “Many politicians, the mayor and city council ask me ‘Well, what are we getting?’ “The Senior Bowl will ask for seed money to help they take care of startup costs and the city wants to rationalize the public spending.
The Senior Bowl brings an economic impact of over $27 million to Mobile.The game features some of the best college athletes in the nation. (Photo | Vanguard Archives) We show them the return on investment.… They get over 400 percent more on sales tax alone. That’s the economic side.” Keshock emphasized that studies like this are more complex than many believe. Every event is different because of the audience it attracts. In this particular event, you don’t just have tourists, you have NFL coaches, staff, business travelers, agents and more that come in for the event that many studies wouldn’t take into account. That’s why it is the most accurate to survey, according to the
professor. One of the biggest reasons studies like the economic impact is done is to allow the city to see the value in holding certain events. The Senior Bowl has done something to Mobile that many cities strive to have. People recognize Mobile for the Senior Bowl. “The event has been held here for over 60 years,” Keshock said. “It’s hard to get that kind of legacy. “People recognize Mobile for Mardi Gras, the Senior Bowl and Bayfest… and you see See Senior Bowl pg. 4
Pathway USA: South Alabama, Faulkner State join in partnership By ALYSSA NEWTON Editor-In-Chief
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outh Alabama has partnered with Faulkner State in a new partnership that will make the transition from the community college to USA. The program called Pathway USA will allow students to further their education and earn a four year degree if they desire to transfer upon completion of their associate’s degree. “The University of South Alabama is committed to making a college education
more affordable and accessible,” said South Alabama President Tony Waldrop. “We believe Pathway USA will be a very effective means to achieve that and it is exciting that Faulkner State shares our commitment.” Students who choose to start off at Faulkner State may have a copy of their USA application and supporting documents forwarded to Faulkner State for admission. Students that are already attending Faulkner State can also apply for Pathway USA. The program will officially launch in the 2016 fall semester.
University of South Alabama
Student Health Center of South Alabama Where University good health and healing Begins
Student Health Center t 4FYVBM "TTBVMU 4FSWJDFT t 4QFDJBMUZ 3FGFSSBMT t 4QPSUT .FEJDJOF t 45* 4DSFFOJOH BOE Contraception Counseling t 4FYVBM "TTBVMU 4FSWJDFT t 5SBWFM .FEJDJOF
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Where good health and healing Begins
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t 4QFDJBMUZ 3FGFSSBMT t 4QPSUT .FEJDJOF OFFICE HOURS 8:00 – 5:00 p.m., Mon., Wed. and Fri., t a.m. 45* 4DSFFOJOH BOE 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tues., Thurs. Contraception Counseling Appointments Preferred/Walk-ins welcome t 5SBWFM .FEJDJOF ADDRESS
STUDENT HEALTH CENTER
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Health Sciences Building
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Health Sciences Building
USA President Tony Waldrop, left, and Faulkner State Community College President Gary Branch sign a Pathway USA agreement. (Photo | USA PR)
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650 Clinic Drive TRP III, Suite 1200 EMAIL studenthealth@southalabama.edu PHONE/FAX
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JAN. 25, 2016
3 Editorial Editor in Chief Managing Editor Copy Editor Life Editor Staff Reporters
Alyssa Kaitlyn Newton
Mitchell Kahalley Micaela Walley Natalie Franklin Bria Johnson Tori Brackett Caitlin Smith
Staff Photographer Emily Rodrick
Distribution
Distribution Alan Smith
Advertising
Advertising Cristina Werner Graphic Designer Katelyn Huff
Management Advising J. Sellers J. Aucoin Accounting Kathy Brannan
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Send letters and guest columns to: The Vanguard University of South Alabama Alpha Hall South Room 336 Mobile, Ala., 36688. Or thevanguardeditor@gmail.com Letters and guest columns must be received by 7 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Monday publication. Submissions should be typed and must include the writer’s name, year, school and telephone number. All submissions become the property of The Vanguard. The Vanguard reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for length and clarity. Letters will be limited to 300 words. Letters and guest columns are the opinion of the writer. The Staff Editorial represents the consensus opinion of the Editorial Board. All members of the Editorial Board have the same weight. The Vanguard has a commitment to accuracy and clarity and will print any corrections or clarifications. To report a mistake, e-mail thevanguardeditor@gmail.com. The Vanguard is published Mondays during the academic year, except for exam periods and vacations, and is published twice each summer. The Vanguard is supported in part by an allocation from student activity fees and operates in the Student Media Department of the Division of Student Affairs. Issues are available at most University buildings and select off-campus locations. The first copy is free. Additional copies are $1 each. Freelance writers will receive payment at the discretion of the section editor and will be notified.
To request additional issues at a stand near you, email: vanguarddistribution@gmail.com
Nick Grondin | Staff Meteorologist
USAPD Blotter
If you SEE something 2 5 1 - 4 6 0 - 6 3 1 2 SAY something! 15:51 1/07/2016 Unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle Rec Center Victim reported that their window was broken and a backpack was stolen while their vehicle was parked On stadium boulevard. 19:22 1/09/2016 Domestic Violence in the third degree USA Medical Center Female was arrested after she slapped her sister at the medical center. 14:10 1/11/2016 Medical Emergency Victim fell and injured herself in the humanities building. 16:02 1/11/2016 Harassment Life Sciences Student reported that another student was harassing her.
16:24 1/11/2016 Possession of Drug/paraphernalia Possession of alcohol Several bongs and bottles of alcohol were found in the apartment. 16:53 1/11/206 Theft of Property Mitchell College of Business Victim said phone was stolen after she left it in classroom 22:22 1/11/2016 Marijuana possession New Hall Student was found with marijuana and paraphernalia in their room in New Hall. 12:28 1/12/201 Equipment fire Humanities Equipment caught fire only causing damage to the equipment.
17:00 1/12/2016 Theft of property in third degree ($500 or less) Bookstore Theft was reported by USA Bookstore involving a temporary employee. 2:34 1/15/2016 Property damage Phi Kappa Phi Resident reported unintentionally breaking a window. 1:28 01/19/2016 Possession of Marijuana Officers stopped a vehicle going in the exit side of the Grove and discovered marijuana a from the driver, a non student or resident of the Grove. He was transported to Mobile County Jail and placed on docket.
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JAN. 25, 2016
South Alabama students ‘feel the Bern’ in Birmingham A bus full of students traveled three and a half hours to see the Democratic candidate on MLK Day By BRIA JOHNSON Staff Reporter
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hile many students had the Martin Luther King holiday off, some South Alabama students joined the Students for Bernie Sanders and traveled to Birmingham to ‘feel the Bern’ as the Democratic hopeful held a special rally in the Alabama city. Presidential candidates have been rocking Alabama for new supporters and reassuring support from the old for months. Mobile has even been host to presidential candidates Dr. Ben Carson and Donald Trump, events that drew crowds of thousands of people. Mari Ponder, president of South Alabama Students for Bernie Sanders and an adamant Bernie Sanders supporter, made the trip to Birmingham for MLK Day. Ponder said that the rally was really more of a pep rally with the energy among the candidate’s supporters. Bernie Sanders’ official Alabama headquarters completely funded a bus for supporters to provide transportation to and from Mobile. With only five days to plan, the rally reached full capacity at 5,700 people inside and over 1,000 outside in the cold. Luckily, South Alabama students got in and up close to Sanders.
Senior Bowl Continued from Page 2
where BayFest is no longer here. You can brand your city with events. Here the events act as a quality-of-life enhancement for locals and tourists.” Keshock and a group of graduate students did a scaled-down impact study back in 2007. Then, the group was only limited to the tourists. In 2015, with Phil Savage at the reigns for the Senior Bowl, that was a different story. “Phil Savage knew the value of good, rigid research that no one can contest,” Keshock said. “He allowed us access to surveying NFL staff, coaches, GMs… it was really a watershed moment. “Many reports don’t get nearly that much access to those individuals. We did the surveying for a full week, 20 students around the clock talking to media, sports agents, vendors and more. You don’t see that in the sports industry world.” Although this is a form of community service that the professors and classes take a part of, the education it provides is “invaluable.” “Our students are seeing what it takes to have that concrete data and it’s a really big effort,” Keshock said. “They’re right there in the trenches.”
“It was a last minute effort, we were really thankful the campaign did that,” said Ponder. Ponder and the club are heavily encouraging voting, even setting up registration tables at multiple events.. Poder said voter registration is important, especially for young voters. “There’s so many 18 year olds and this is going to be their first time to vote, that’s a big deal,” said Ponder. Although the group is clearly in support for Sanders, Ponder said that the goal is to educate students on the candidate, not to force people to vote for him. “Our club is not about bashing, we want to educate others about Bernie Sanders. The club is about providing information,” said Ponder. “I’m not asking you to vote for Bernie Sanders, I want you to be informed. We want you to know who his is; We want you to decide for yourself,” Troy Baugh, vice-president of South Alabama student for Bernie Sanders, reinforced that same idea. Baugh’s main concern is to ensure students are educated in their voting, no matter the party or ideals. “If you don’t get informed about the other side, you risk mischaracterizing,” said Baugh. “We argue the issue, we don’t want to argue based on personality; You Derrick Westbrook, 22, graduated from South Alabama in May of 2015, and he is currently a graduate assistant at Baylor University, studying Sports Administration and working with Baylor Athletic Marketing. Westbrook was one of the many undergraduate students who took part in conducting the study. “I surveyed fans and spectators at different events throughout the Senior Bowl week in dealing with the different estimated amounts of spending in the mobile area and estimated amount spent on food, gas, hotels, tickets, etc.,” Westbrook said. “It’s not something that can be done in one day. We had people surveying at every single event that week so it should us the great lengths that one must go through in order to compile accurate data.” As the now-graduate student continues his studies, Westbrook said that the handson experience really pushed him beyond his comfort level. “You have to be willing to put yourself out there in an environment where you might not be that comfortable approaching complete strangers,” he said. “The ability to comfortably talk to strangers is something that is such a big asset in the workplace today. If I have the ability to do just that, it makes opportunities to network with other professional people a much simpler task.” Not only are these studies beneficial for
South Alabama students traveled to Birmingham on MLK Day for the Bernie Sanders rally. The candidate spoke in front of more 5,000 people. (Photo | Michael Stevanus) can’t argue something if you don’t know what you’re arguing against.” The club also partnered with Mobile for Bernie, getting the word out to vote, not only for students, but the community, hoping to provide ways for supporters to get to and from the polls. Last Saturday, Mobile for Bernie Sanders and South Alabama students for Bernie Sanders organized a meeting for students and local supporters to view a live simulcast from Sanders, pushing extra confidence for the upcoming ‘Super Tuesday’ vote.
Elizabeth McCraw, President of Mobile for Bernie Sanders, also attended the simulcast and the rally. “There was so much excitement and so much passion from everybody in the crowd,” said McCraw. Junior leisure studies major Cole Tarver said that he wants his first ever vote to be for Sanders. “I’ll vote for Bernie because not only is this my first time to vote, but it may be my last time I get to vote for someone who will enact drastic, positive change for the next 20 years.”
Players from all over the nation, draw in crowd of people that otherwise would not visit Mobille, making them economic tourists. Pictured: Bryce Petty (Photo |Vanguard Archives) the students but the University as a whole. “It gives our program substance, we really rally around what we do best,” Keshock said. “We are branding ourselves as a program that really is detailed in the research with do. “We do quality work and don’t inflate any numbers. It prompts national recognition. People are starting to realize we are the University of South Alabama, not Alabama.” This research done by the University breaks down impact and gives the city a “conservative” number from the entire week, which is where the $27 million comes from.
“The city of Mobile goes through so much hard work to put on a week long event,” Westbrook said. “The opportunity to have a significant impact on the economy of Mobile while providing quality entertainment for fans is a win-win for everyone involved.” The work done is considered community service, but Keshock said that it is worth the work. “We’re happy to do that in Mobile,” he said. “We want to keep those sporting events here in Mobile and we don’t want to see them go away.”
JAN. 25, 2016
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South Alabama students give back on MLK day of service By CAITLIN SMITH Staff Reporter
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very third Monday of January, the nation takes a holiday in remembrance Martin Luther King Jr. While some stay indoors, others take the holiday to serve others. On Jan. 18, South Alabama students were dispersed throughout Mobile as they were assigned to different service projects. Students were sent to Dumas Wesley, The Little Sisters of the Poor, St. John’s and other locations helping and serving the local committees. “It is very important to remember our history and to help and be involved in the community.” South Alabama Junior, Kadijah Oliver said. Oliver had walked through the Africatown neighborhoods and picked up trash and helped clean up the streets. “It is fun to get together with the community and students and know that you are making a difference, especially on a day like today.” In the afternoon, students and Mobile residents of all races and ages gathered at Bishop State Community College to begin the mile march to honor and remember Martin Luther King. This event is held every year and is a part
of the MLK Day of Service put together by the Center for Academic Service-Learning and Civil Engagement organization. “MLK Day was not only a day to recognize what King Jr. branded on history but also add a day of reflection. Reflection about ourselves and those around us to come together in unity and improve relations to have better communications,” South Alabama student Brianna Cunningham said. Cunningham served at St. John’s for the day. “Personally I had a chance to temporarily grasp onto the past when my parents grew up. The walk in downtown mobile made me think that a dream can come alive with the young generation and I was a part of it. My contribution to the community was an amazing experience.” King is a legend amongst civil rights leaders and that has inspired young students even today. Asia Snow, a member of the Avena Khufu honor society has a strong connection to this day. “My family has personally marched side by side with Dr. King and he is a really big inspiration to me. Getting to emulate what my family did all those years ago with this march is such a huge deal.” Having done the march every year, Snow believes that the amount of people that come
and support every year makes a difference and show growth and progress in the community. Sophomore Spanish major Erick Romero said that MLK day isn’t just a day of service, but serves as a reminder that people should serve their communities every day. “Martin Luther King day of service should not be one day,” Romero said. “I believe
he wanted you to help out the community everyday. The day of service is just a reminder that you should go out and help the community. The march was very inspiring; it almost felt like I was sent back in time. It was a reminder that we have a long way to go for this battle. It created a new fire in me.” Bria Johnson, Alyssa Newton contributed to this story.
Students and community members joined together in the MLK Day march after a day full of service throughout Mobile. (Caitlin Smith | Staff Reporter)
S.A.V.E. group formed to educate on sexual violence By TORI BRACKETT Staff Reporter
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.A.V.E., or Sexual Assault and Violence Educators, is a new student organization that hopes to educate students and faculty on sexual violence and aggression. Morgan Mullins, a sophomore nursing student and member of S.A.V.E., said the group hopes to further educate peers about consent, gender and race stereotyping and inequalities, and sexual safety. Over 20 students have joined and participated in a two-day, six-hour training session over the holiday break. Students were trained to comfortably speak about topics, such as rape, sexual misconduct and abuse, with survivors of such cases. The training included differentiating between myths and facts surrounding sexual misconduct, talking about privileges that different genders and races receive, speaking in front of large groups about possibly uncomfortable topics and offering aid to those who have faced struggles with these issues. Students from various departments and programs at South Alabama have joined, representing the following programs: nursing, psychology, technology, English, public relations, foreign languages, gender studies, exercise science, communications and criminal justice. “It’s a very diverse group, and we’ve learned a lot from the training and being a part of the organization,” Mullins said. “It shows how different we all are, but how we can all come
together for a cause that we’re all very passionate about.” According to Mullins, the group’s goal is to educate the public about little-known statistics, such as: one in ten college women has been the victim of sexual misconduct, nine out of ten rapes occur by someone the victim knows personally and that 90 percent of rapes on college campuses involve alcohol use by either the victim or the perpetrator. Mullins said the group strives to eliminate rape “myths,” such as “if a girl doesn’t say no, it isn’t rape,” or “if both parties are drunk, it isn’t rape.” She said it promotes a peaceful lifestyle and is trained on self-care and self-positivity. Its training included a meditation session at the end, led by the meditation club on campus. Further training sessions will follow, as more group members are accepted. S.A.V.E. works closely with Title IX and the Violence Prevention Alliance, and will be presenting to classes on campus, as well as offering resources, at the Student Health Center, for those who need them. Dr. Krista Harrell, the Associate Dean of Students and Title IX Coordinator, took part in the training as well, and works with Courtney Diener, the founder of S.A.V.E. “We’re passionate about letting other people know that regardless of their background, they can become passionate about this too, and start to change it,” Mullins said. Diener said students can contact her at cdiener@southalabama.edu for more information, or if they have any questions.
LIFE
NATALIE FRANKLIN LIFE EDITOR nsf1222@jagmail.southalabama.edu
JAN. 25, 2016
IMC presents Ryan Culwell for first show of the semester By NATALIE FRANKLIN Life Editor
Events of the Week
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he Independent Music Collection came back strong with the first concert of 2016. Ryan Culwell blew into Mobile on Friday, Jan. 22, much like the snowstorm that held him up in Nashville. The frigid air wasn’t enough to keep listeners at bay. About 30 people packed the small back room of Satori Coffeehouse to take in the dark, emotive country ballads of Culwell. Culwell fit right into the scenery of Satori. His music paired well with the small dark room, filled with chairs and plush sofas, and dimly lit by a yellow light. Culwell and his six string guitar gave a wonderful performance. His music, his lyrics and his voice create a sound so original, it’s hard to describe. “It feels and sounds like what the movie ‘No Country for Old Men’ looks like,” Culwell said about his music. “No Country for Old Men,” written by Cormac McCarthy, is a brooding and bloody drama about a man who comes across a large sum of drug money, and is then pursued by a dangerous killer. “The rest of the movie is just desolate and empty. They made something really terrifying look beautiful for moments,” Culwell said. His music is the epitome of the beauty within terror. Culwell is a native of the Texas Panhandle. Culwell described the lay of the land and how flat the Texas Panhandle is. His album, entitled “Flatlands,” was released in 2015.
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25 26 Singer-songwriter, Ryan Culwell, performed at Satori Coffeehouse on Friday, Jan. 22. (Photo | ryanculwell.com) now as a husband and father. He turned this small concert into an intimate gathering with his personal narrative and his connection with the crowd. Before singing a song that he sings to his daughters at bedtime, Culwell said, “This is my hug around your neck.” Playing with his eyes closed, he still managed to connect with the audience, a feat not so easily accomplished. During one song, Culwell sang a cappella, which created a somber, goose bump raising atmosphere. His voice had a gentle power that is only amplified by the meaning of his lyrics. Culwell performed about 10 songs, each better than the last. He ended the
show with “Red River.” This song, with its deep, heady tune, was a perfect song to close with. “Red River is kind of like calling out for a refuge,” Culwell said. Again, his sound is dark, but there is a beauty in that darkness. What is his favorite song to perform? “I have three daughters. You wouldn’t ask me which one of those was my favorite.” Culwell seems to take pride in his music, and his confidence on stage is palpable. His performance will not be one so soon forgotten by IMC frequenters. IMC will present its second show on Feb. 26 with Ed Snodderly and Eric Erdman.
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He explained that his hometown was influential to his current album. “The physical geography and the kind of historical aspect of the people that went through the Dust Bowl and generations after, what that means as far as toughness and resilience and the good side and the bad side of toughness. It [the album] operates around those things.” His melancholy tone and dark lyrics are inspired by his working class upbringing. Between songs, Culwell shared personal stories from his childhood and his life
Hip Hop Night Feat. Eterniti Student Center Ballroom 8-10 p.m.
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Scout’s Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse Student Center Ballroom 7-9 p.m.
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Zumba Rec Center, Studio 1 5:30-6:20 p.m.
It feels and sounds like what the movie ‘No Country for Old Men’ looks like. -Ryan Culwell
Robert Holm and Jasmin Arakawa Two- Piano Faculty Recital Laidlaw 7:30 p.m.
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Mardi Gras Ball Student Center Terrace 6-9 p.m.
Live Trivia Student Center Lobby 9-11 p.m.
Culwell’s album, “Flatlands,” was released in March 2015. (Photo | ryanculwell.com)
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JAN. 25, 2016
South Alabama ninth in Alabama college rankings By NATALIE FRANKLIN Life Editor
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ver wondered where the University of South Alabama ranks in order with other colleges in the state of Alabama? In its 2016 rankings, niche.com reviewed and ranked the best colleges in Alabama, according to a variety of qualifications. Coming in ninth, South Alabama barely made it in the top 10 of the best colleges and universities in the state, though according to the website, that puts South Alabama ahead of 13 other colleges. The University of Alabama was ranked number one on the list. UA is the largest college in Alabama in regards to enrollment. Auburn University, Samford University, UAB, and the University of Alabama-Huntsville rounded out the top five in that order. The University of Mobile and Spring Hill College ranked in at Nos. 6 and 7, respectively. Both colleges are faith-based private colleges in the Mobile area. Birmingham-Southern College and
Huntingdon College finished out the top ten, at eighth and tenth respectively. Although it was ranked third among the schools in Mobile, South ranked above its state rival, Troy. The Trojans come in at No. 12 on the list. Miles College came in last, with a majority of its qualifications receiving a grade of C. Miles College, a historically black college, is located in Fairfield, Alabama. Niche.com graded each college based on qualifications such as the strength of academic programs, the aptitude of professors, the quality of student life and a variety of other variables. The qualifications were weighted with a certain percentage and a grade was given based on that percentage. The majority of South Alabama’s qualifications received a grade of B. Student life, which accounted for 7.5 percent of South’s overall grade, was a category that received a grade of B. This grade is based on safety, diversity, athletics and student surveys regarding student life. “Clearly it’s going to take some time, but I feel like student life is on the rise,” said Michelle Henken, a junior English major. Henken recognized organizations
The Moulton Tower at the University of South Alabama. (Photo | Vangaurd Archives) such as Jaguar Productions for their part in growing campus involvement. However, the junior did note a major flaw within South’s budding student life. “I think it takes a collective kind of mindset for the student body,” she said. “Unfortunately I feel like we have a lot of people who are still like, ‘oh, that’s dumb. I’m not going to do it,’ as far a lot of events go.” Henken is not the only student who acknowledges a problem with campus involvement and student life. Michael Turner, a senior majoring in Strategic Communications, thinks it is a public relations problem. “They (South) have a lot of events and stuff, but I don’t think they do a good job of making it known,” Turner said. Another factor considered in South Alabama’s ranking was safety. South Alabama received its lowest grade for the safety qualification—a C. This grade compiles statistics from oncampus crime rates, as well local crime rates. According to South Alabama’s 2015 Annual Security and Fire Safety report, a total of 19 non-motor vehicle burglaries occurred on campus in 2014. “I personally have never had an issue with my safety,” Henken said. “Of course if I’m ever here after dark, a part of me is like, ‘clutch my purse and walk real fast to my car.’” Other students say that they still are a little uneasy when on campus because of past incidents. “Sometimes at night I don’t (feel safe),” said Alisha Harris, a senior communications major. “That’s because of a lot of stuff that’s happened over the years on campus. It kind of scares me.” Spring Hill also received a C for the safety qualification in the ranking provided by niche.com.
This grade most likely reflects South’s grade because the website takes the local city’s crime rate into consideration. South is constantly growing. “I think they offer a lot for every student and for every major, and there’s a lot to work with and it's for anybody,” Harris said. Despite safety issues and other disadvantages, there is still hope that South may quickly climb to the top in the near future.
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JAN. 25, 2016
Geology Club member is the Solar System Ambassador for Mobile By CAITLIN SMITH Staff Reporter
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or the past seven years, Mobile, Alabama has been without a Solar System Ambassador. There has not been a connection between NASA and our town until this year. South Alabama student, Jamie Ellis, was competitively selected to take on the job. A solar system ambassador is a huge title with exciting benefits. Ellis’ has various responsibilities as the solar system ambassador for Mobile. They include connecting with the community and acting as a middleman between NASA and Mobile. Her work focuses on missions, technology and even communication with the crew themselves. “This program is nationwide full of motivated volunteers who communicate information about NASA’s space exploration.” As a woman studying to be a geologist with a minor in physics, Ellis knows firsthand how few females there are in science fields. “My main goal is to go to middle schools and talk because at the age of 12 and 13 girls start to lose interest in math
South Alabama geology students at the Rooster Bridge marker, Moscow landing field trip. (Photo | Facebook) and science.” With her title, Ellis can start to make a difference for kids at a younger age. “I really want to inspire them to be the nerd. Don’t be scared to be the smart girl.” With support from NASA, Ellis can show students and the community how
cool space really is. Along with being a space ambassador, Ellis is also involved with the Geology Club at South. The club is more than just meetings about rocks though. They are best known for their field trips. “We went kayaking in northern Al-
abama and went cave diving and spelunking, too. It is so fun, but it also a great way to get more involved and more out of your major.” The club gets together at Picklefish in between their formal biweekly meetings to discuss community service and what other adventures they will go on. In addition to the field trips, the club brings in professional speakers. “The speakers help the South community learn about job opportunities and professional development,” Ellis said. They help bring real world knowledge to students. The Geology Club is not just for Geology majors. Any and all enthusiasts are welcomed to come to a meeting and join. “If you enjoy nature and camping and being outside, Geology Club is where you want to be.” When the weather warms up, Ellis will be hosting a “Stars Night Out” where South students and the community can come and look at the moon, constellations and even the Hubble telescope that has been in space since 1990. “There is a broad horizon out there to explore, and I just want this to last and to further the knowledge that the community has,” Ellis said.
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JAN. 25, 2016
Student shares his study abroad experience in Spain
Isaiah Alston travelled to Spain this past summer with a USA study abroad program.(Photo | Isaiah Alston)
By ISAIAH ALSTON Contributing Writer
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his past summer I had the privilege of studying abroad in Spain with the University of South Alabama visual arts in Spain program. We stayed primarily in the city of Toledo, which is a city that sits above the Castilla-la Mancha plain in Central Spain.
Toledo is a quiet little city with many different sites to see. Most of the monuments can be traced back to their Jewish, Christian, and Arab history. One of my favorite monuments to visit was the Cathedral of Saint Mary. Saint Mary's Cathedral is located close to the center of Toledo and is dedicated to Mary the mother of Jesus. When I approached the structure I could only stand in awe of its beauty. I remember walking up to its three entrance portals and looking at all the sculptures on the Archivolts, which sit above the doors. There were three gates and the Archivolts depicted three different scenes for each gate. I thought the outside was amazing but was later blown away by the interior with the work that was inside. Next, the entire USA Abroad group traveled to Madrid, the capital of Spain, to see the Plaza de Royal. Then we travelled to Cordoba, where we visited The Great Mosque of Cordoba. Our next journey brought us to the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains in Andalucía to Granada. There, we visited the most beautiful garden I have ever seen in Alhambra in Andalusia. While traveling, I was able to build stronger relationships with my
The USA visual arts in Spain program visited Madrid, Toledo and other hisotric cities in Spain. (Photo | Isaiah Alston) fellow classmates and teachers beyond a classroom level. I learned more about Spanish history, and I was able to see Spanish culture in its purest form. I would not have dreamed that I would be able to go beyond the walls of America because I had
grown complacent with where I was in the world. Now I am looking for my next opportunity to go back. I believe that while I was in Spain I formed relationships and gained valuable insight about another place in the world.
New art exhibit at Marx Library By NATALIE FRANKLIN Life Editor
“C
hiisai,” a new art exhibition is now showing at the Marx Li-
brary. The exhibit is on display in the glass cases in the Mary Elizabeth and Charles Bernard Rodning Gallery of Art on the third floor of the library. The art exhibit will be featured through Feb. 29, 2016. The collection features small paintings and sculptural works by Regina Doi-Kolleger, a local artist. Doi-Kolleger has had a successful career as an artist. She has painted murals and panels for public display in U.S. embassies, train stations, art walks and museums. The majority of her work has been large and abstract. However, her recent exhibit, “Chiisai,” is quite different. The word “chiisai” means “small” in Japanese. In this exhibit, Doi-Kolleger sculpted in wax. She also casted intricate bronze and precious metal jewelry and sculptures. Doi-Kolleger said, “I sculpt animals as I would like to play with them as a child. If in terracotta clay, my figures are spirits of preciousness within.”
The exhibit will display rough castings, waxes and sculptural terracotta excerpts from a public exhibition from the New York State Museum. The exhibit is free and open during regular Marx Library hours.
“Chiisai,” the new art exhibit at the Marx Library, features the sculptural works of local artist, Regina DoiKolleger. (Photo | southalabama.edu)
AUG. 31, 2015
SPORTS
STAFF thevanguardeditor@gmail.com
JAN. 25, 2016
Alyssa Newton | Editor-In-Chief
South Alabama notches third SBC win Seond half rally sees the Jagaurs beat ULM 63-57 on the road, move to 7-10 (3-5 SBC) By MITCHELL KAHALLEY Managing Editor
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he South Alabama women’s basketball team bounced back after a turgid performance last Thursday night to win their third Sun Belt Conference game on Saturday. The Jaguar’s lost to Louisiana-Lafayette 69-50 before managing a 63-57 win against Louisiana-Monroe. The Jaguars couldn’t find an offensive rhythm against ULL, finishing the night shooting 1952 from the floor. On the other hand hit 30 of their 59 shots. The Ragin’ Cajuns jumped out to an 21-9 lead in the first quarter. A Marquita Daniels steal and layup in transition cut the ULL lead to 25-15 with 4:40 to play in the first half, but ULL’s Jodi Quinn hit a 15-foot jumper to start an 8-2 run for the Ragin’ Cajuns Despite the Jaguar’s offensive woes, sophomore Chyna Ellis re-
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corded her third double-double of the season with 16 points and 11 rebounds. She also recorded two blocks bringing her season total to 44, giving her the fifth most blocks in school history. Ellis opened the second half for the Jags by draining a three-pointer, the first of her career. The Jags would only score one point over the next five minutes eventually extending the lead to 43-23. The Ragin’ Cajuns shot 72.2 percent in the fourth quarter and led by 30 points until a late 11-1 run by the Jaguars brought the final score to 69-50. In an interview with USAJaguars, Jaguar head coach Terry Fowler said, “We were never able to get into a flow and I just felt like we weren’t in attack-mode. I thought our guards were going to have an advantage attacking their post players on our pick and roll. We just never did though.” ULL forced 18 USA turnovers
and scored 16 points off of them, while only turning the ball over nine times themselves. They also outscored the Jaguars in the paint, 44-26. On Saturday, the Jaguars found themselves down eight points in the third quarter. A Marquita Daniels three-pointer with six minutes to play in the third sparked a 13-5 run for the Jaguars to give USA a 46-45 lead. After a back and forth final quarter, Juliann Miller caused a ULM turnover and drained a three as the shot clock expired after coming off a Colby Davis screen to give USA a 61-57 lead. As time expired Erin Autio and Ellis would go 1-of-2 from the free throw line to give USA the 63-57 win. After only scoring two points on Thursday, Marquita Daniels lead the Jaguars with 15 points and two steals. Autio also registered double figures, scoring 13
points and shooting 4-of-9 from the field, including two three pointers. “It was good to see Marquita have that type of game for us,” Fowler said to USAJaguars. “Marquita played within herself today and didn’t really force things. She
did a great job of taking advantage of opportunities when they presented themselves to her. The Jaguars move to 7-10 and 3-5 in the Sun Belt Conference. Their next game is on the road Tuesday night against in-state rivals Troy
Chyna Ellis recorded her third double-double of the year on Jan 21. in a losing efort to Louisiaan-Lafayette. (USAJaguars)
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JAN. 25, 2016
Men’s hoops drop two in Louisiana, fall to 7-12 (2-6 SBC) By MITCHELL KAHALLEY Managing Editor
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outh Alabama men’s basketball team lost two straight games on their Louisiana road trip overall record to 7-12 and 2-5 in the Sun Belt Conference. The Jaguars lost to Louisiana-Lafayette 9282 last Thursday in a game that featured nine technical fouls, five on USA, four on ULL. On Sunday, the Jaguars were blown out by Louisiana-Monroe, 100-68. On Thursday night, the Jaguars traveled to the Cajundome in Lafayette. The Ragin’ Cajuns were looking to continue their two-game winning streak, while the Jags were hoping to build off their win against Texas-Arlington. The game was a tightly contested affair, with the Jaguars only trailing 46-44 at halftime. The second half opened with six foul shots after three technical fouls were were given at the end of the first half. USA went 1 of 2, but ULL hit all 4 starting a 24-6 run. The Jags made a late 17-6 run to end the game, but could never regain the lead, eventually losing 9282. The game was a chippy affair. ULM went to the charity stripe 47 times and made 34 of them. USA went 12 for 22 from the free throw line. The game featured nine technical fouls in total, five on the Jaguars and four on the Ragin’ Cajuns. “Throughout that half, it was difficult to find any kind of flow and rhythm with the amount of technical and fouls,” USA head coach Matthew Graves said in an interview with USAJaguars.
South Alabama lost to Louisiana-Laffayette 92-82 on Thursday in a game that saw nine technical fouls called. (USAJaguars) “We’ve got to play smarter and keep our cool a little bit, but at the same time, I absolutely love the fight, our willingness not to back down and stand strong and stay together as a team. It’s absolutely fabulous.” The large number of technical and personal fouls amassed by both teams prompted Sun Belt Commissioner Karl Benson to release a statement about the game. Benson’s statement said, “The Sun Belt Conference and its member universities have a high standard for conduct. We cannot and will not ignore when these standards are not met. I thank (UL
Lafayette Athletic Director) Scott Farmer and (South Alabama Athletic Director) Joel Erdmann for recognizing the type of behavior that is expected and that this behavior was not suitable for their universities. I also applaud Coach Graves and Coach Marlin for coming forward and recognizing that the behavior of their teams last night was unacceptable. Nevertheless, it is the responsibility of the head coach to have their teams composed and to ensure good sportsmanship. There was a failure to do so last night. Both coaches understand this and both coaches understand their teams are expected
to meet our standards of conduct.” Both coach Graves and ULL coach Bob Marlin released statements lamenting the unsportsmanlike behavior during the game. “Last night was a highly emotional game for both teams and we are certainly disappointed with the actions of everyone involved,” Graves said in his prepared statement. “We have addressed the issues within our team and will continue to be diligent on educating our student-athletes on how to appropriately conduct themselves in such an environment moving forward. We strive to represent South Alabama in a first-class manner and we will utilize this as a teachable moment for both our student-athletes and coaching staff. I have the utmost respect for Coach Marlin and his program, and am looking forward to continuing the rivalry between the two schools.” The Jaguars looked to return to winning ways on Saturday when they would take on the Warhawks of Louisiana-Monroe. However, the USA was no match for ULM. All five starters for the Warhawks reached double-digits in the 100-68 route of South Alabama. “They had five guys that scored in double-figures, so they have a lot of weapons. They have a very old, mature team that’s been through the battles,” Graves said, “They won a lot of games last year. They’re undefeated at home and there’s a reason, they’re an outstanding team.” The Jaguars return to the court on Tuesday night to take on in-state rival Troy at 7:30 p.m.
Two Jags honored with SBC weekly track awards Collins and Beans win field student-athletes of the week; small group competes midweek in Brimingham By MITCHELL KAHALLEY Managing Editor
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tudent athletes from South Alabama took home two of the four Sun Belt weekly track and field awards after their performance at the Commodore Invitational on Jan. 16 and 17. Kaitlyn Beans and Sean Collins were named the women’s and men’s student-athletes of the week after the first meet of the Jaguar’s season. Kaitlyn Beans recorded the 12th best triplejump time in the country and the longest in the Sun Belt with a mark of 12.66m/41-6.50. She finished second in the event and was only 15m shy of matching the school record of 12.81m/4200.50 she set in 2014. Collins won the pole vault event and broke USA’s school record, which has stood since 2008, with a mark of 5.35m/17-6.50 in his collegiate debut. That mark is tied for seventh-best in the country so far this season and third-best by a freshman. In the middle of last week, South Alabama sent five students to compete in the Samford Stand Alone Multi on Wednesday and Thursday at the Birmingham Crossplex. In his collegiate debut, freshman Lane Adams paced South Alabama’s men’s and women’s indoor track and field teams by finishing eighth in the heptathlon. Adms scored at least 600 points in six of the seven events. His best score was 755 after posting
a time of 7.37 seconds in the 60-meter dash. Adams also posted scores of 735 points after finishing the 60-meter hurdles with a time of 9.05. He also scored 731 points after recording a mark of 1.92m in the high jump. “I was really happy with the way Lane started,” said USA assistant coach Aaron James in an interview with USAJaguars. “It was his first time competing, and he’s been off for a while, he missed eight weeks of training, so it was a good experience for him. It was a good first meet, and four weeks from now I think he’ll be a lot better; he’s not too far away from having a shot at breaking the school record in the future.” Sophomore Niel Giliomee finished 15th in the pentathlon. He recorded a score of 792 in the 60 meters, after posting a time of 7.26 seconds. He finished the 1,000-meter run in 2:55:07 adding 713 points to his total. He also posted a long jump of 6.15m, adding 619 points to his total, but was unable to score in the 60-meter hurdles and faced limitations in the pole vault due to injury. “Niel did a great job, he was disqualified in the hurdles,” said James to USAJaguars. “It was more about the lane that he drew, his leg got outside the hurdle; if he was in another lane that would not have been a problem. He also pole vaulted onehanded, which I’ve never had anyone do in 30 years of coaching.” On the women’s side of the competition, freshman Taylor Young placed 11th in the pentathlon in her college debut. Her classmate Olivia
Kaitlyn Beans recorded the 12th best triple-jump time in the country and the longest in the Sun Belt with a mark of 12.66m/41-6.50 in the Jag’s first indoor meet of the season. (USAJaguars) Swan finished in 13th. Kriszti Sazabo also competed in the event, but was forced to drop out after two events due to injury. “Kriszti bailed out after the high jump,” said James to USAJaguars “She turned her ankle and we just want to make sure she is good to go for [the Sun Belt] conference [championship], we didn’t want to push it.” Young finished 195 points ahead of Swan in the pentathlon, finishing with a total of 3,009 points. She posted a time of 9.12 seconds in the
60-meter hurdles, giving her 883 of those points. She also scored 617 and 599 points after posting marks of 5.21m and 1.48m in the long jump and high jump respectively. “They all did some nice things, but across the board we need to step it up in the long jump. If we do that we should score better in four weeks.” said James to USAJaguars The Jaguars will be back in Birmingham on Jan. 31 to compete in the Privateer Invitational at the Birmingham Crossplex.
JAN. 25, 2016
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Football hires new defensive coordinator By MITCHELL KAHALLEY Managing Editor
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ast Friday, Kane Wommack was named as defensive coordinator for the University of South Alabama football team. Wommack is making the leap to Division I Football Bowl Subdivision after spending the last two years as the defensive coordinator and safeties coach at Eastern Illinois. Womack helped lead the Panthers to an appearance in the first round of 2015 NCAA Football Championship Subdivision playoffs as well as a top-25 ranking. Under him, Eastern Illinois ranked second nationally in interceptions with 19, third in takeaway, with 31, fourth in pass efficiency defense with a rating of 103.0, eighth in red zone defense with a percentage of 63.7 and 10th in tackles for loss, with 98. The Panthers also led the Ohio Valley Conference in pass efficiency defense and red zone defense and finished second in the conference in scoring defense, pass defense, third-down defense,
first-down defense and sacks. “I am very excited to announce Kane Wommack as the new defensive coordinator at South Alabama,” head coach Joey Jones said to USAJaguars. “Kane is a very bright, energetic coach who will do great things with our defense. He is a man who will love the players and will also have one heartbeat with our staff.” Before his time at EIU, Womack spent 2012 and 2013 as a defensive graduate assistant at Ole Miss, where he helped coach safeties. In 2011, he coached the defensive line at Jacksonville State where he helped the Gamecocks claim a share of the OVC title he spent the 2010 season as the quarterback coach at Tennessee-Martin. As a player, Womack was a fullback who helped the Arkansas Razorbacks win the 2006 SEC West Division title. He transferred to the University of Southern Mississippi and helped the Golden Eagles make three straight bowl appearances. He graduated from Southern Miss and began his coaching career there, volunteering as an assistant.
Soccer assistant takes head coaching job with SBC rival
Keyton Wheelock takes head coaching position at ULM. (Photo | USAJaguars) By MITCHELL KAHALLEY Managing Editor
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fter winning two straight regular season conference championships and three straight conference tournament titles over the past three seasons, the South Alabama soccer team is losing its goalkeeper coach. Keyton Wheelock was named the head women’s soccer coach at the University of Louisiana-Monroe last Wednesday. “I would like to thank Graham Winkworth, Dr. Erdmann, and the Administration at South Alabama for giving me the opportunity to work under and learn from some great leaders,” Wheelock said to ULMWarhawks.com. “I’d also like to thank the South Alabama players for their efforts over the past 3 seasons; they have been a pleasure to be around and to coach.” Last season Wheelock was named the South Region Senior College Women’s Assistant Coach of the Year by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America. She helped lead the Jaguars to Sun Belt tournament and regular season titles as well as the program’s first NCAA tournament win, a 4-0
shutout against LSU in Mobile. Wheelock’s keepers averaged 0.92 goals against last year and 0.43 shutouts per game, putting the Jaguars at 2nd in the Sun Belt in both categories. The Jaguars also finished the season with 10 clean sheets, tied for the most in the conference. Wheelock was the first assistant coach hired by current Jaguar coach Graham Winkworth. He said to ULMWarhawks.com “Keyton leaving South leaves me with mixed emotions. As much as I am delighted for her to get this wonderful opportunity at a quality school like ULM, I am sad to lose her as an assistant. Keyton is not only an excellent coach, but an even better person and I am sure that she will be a positive impact to all the people she comes into contact with in Louisiana.” Before her tenure at USA, Wheelock was an assistant coach at Division II Tusculum College. In her first year there she helped lead the Pioneers to their first ever NSCAA and NCAA top-25 ranking. Wheelock is the fourth women’s soccer head coach in ULM history. She will take over a program that finished at the bottom of the Sun Belt last season with 3 points and a record of 1-8 in the conference, 7-12-1 overall.
OPINION
STAFF thevanguardeditor@gmail.com
JAN. 25, 2016
Don’t think you can study abroad? Think again. Gilman scholarships allow anyone to study abroad, despite financial situation By MATTHEW DAUGHERTY Contributing Writer
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aybe you’ve been thinking you’d like to do something really fun while you’re in college, like go study in another country. But if you’re a student receiving financial aid, you might be telling yourself it’s only for people with a lot of money. Well, you’d be wrong about that. For students on Pell Grants, a Federal program exists called the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship that can award as much as $5,000 for a summer or semester abroad. By combining a Gilman scholarship with other available scholarships or a loan, it may be completely feasible for you to study abroad and learn another language. Every year South Alabama students win Gilman scholarships, and this year I was one of three USA students to receive the Gilman for the USA in Russia Summer Program. Gilman scholarships are available to study numerous languages in countries all around the world, with emphasis on countries outside of Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand. For students studying critical need languages
such as Chinese, Arabic, Russian, Japanese, Turkish or Farsi, for example, the scholarship award may be as high as $8,000. The program is aimed at, but not limited to, students who are underrepresented in study abroad, such as students with high financial need, students in underrepresented fields like the sciences and engineering, students with diverse ethnic backgrounds, students who have been in foster care or adopted, and students with disabilities. To qualify for the Gilman, an applicant must be receiving or about to receive a Federal Pell Grant. The student must also be applying to or accepted into a study-abroad program or internship of the University of South Alabama or another accredited institution of higher education in the U.S. The application is completed online, and the required two essays are especially important. One is a Statement of Purpose essay explaining the applicant’s reasons for wanting to study abroad, and the other is a Follow-on Service Project Proposal in which the applicant explains how he or she will promote the Gilman Scholarship to other students or targeted groups after returning from study abroad. USA students
Matthew Daugherty was able to study abroad because of the Gilman scholarship he recieved. (Photo | Matthew Daugherty) can get help with their essays at the Office of International Education. Deadlines are strict; for example, the application deadline for summer study in 2016 is March 1, 2016. For information about the Gilman Scholarship, go to www.iie.org/Programs/GilmanScholarship-Program. For information about USA study abroad
The smallest things make the biggest difference By OLIVER KARCHER Contributing Writer
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n life, people tend to overlook the everyday things that seem completely normal to a cisgender person. Cisgender means a person who was born in one gender and is totally okay with living in that gender. For example, if someone compliments their appearance, they’d just say “thank you” to that person and move on with their lives. This is just one of the many examples of instances in life that tends to be overlooked in the cisgender world. Oppositely, when the previously-mentioned situation happens to a transgender person, it very well could make their day. In most situations, I don’t pass as a male. However, recently among friends I have been told that when they first met me, they thought that I was a 13-year-old boy who was just really smart and in college. Most people would be insulted if they were told that they look 13 when in actuality they are 20 years old, but for me, I don’t really mind. That just means that I passed as male,
and they were also complimenting me because they said I looked smart. In my friend group at South, the people who are in the group are very accepting of me being transgender. The cool thing about the group is that they see me as a young man, and they don’t think any less of me for being transgender. I fit in with all of the other guys in the group, and that’s amazing. On another note, two things that go hand-in-hand and can either make or break a transgender person’s day are pronouns and their name. Since I came out to my family this time last year, my parents are not used to my name or my pronouns yet, but I’ve learned to tune them out. My brother and sister try their best to use the right pronouns and name, and when they do, it is so validating for me. Using correct pronouns and name is especially awesome with my close family, because they see me as Oliver and nobody else. They know that I used to be fine with being their little sister, but they do not mind making the pronoun and name switch for me, because they know that it will make my day.
When I am out and about running errands, the cashiers at stores often say things like, “Have a good day ma’am.” While it can seem like a polite thing to say on the surface, for a transgender male like me, it has the effect of sending a shiver down my spine. People complimenting my appearance by using adjectives that are associated with men, such as handsome, debonair and suave, are also very validating for me, because it’s those terms that make me know that the world is seeing me as who I really am—a man. Being a transgender male who is pre-op bilateral mastectomy and pre-testosterone, wearing a compression shirt, also known as a chest binder—it forms my chest to be flat—helps in passing as male. More often than not, transgender men will bind their chest. I will often tell myself, “not even this binder would help me pass as a male,” but then a random person says, “hi sir,” or something equally masculine, and it is reassuring for me to know that all my efforts are working. I feel that at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter who you are as far as gender, but what kind of person you are.
programs as well as other scholarships that could be combined with the Gilman, such as a USA Study Abroad Scholarship, go to the Office of International Education at 2300 Meisler Hall and check out their website. www.southalabama.edu/studyabroad. The Gilman Scholarship might just be your key to a life-changing experience.
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14
JAN. 25, 2016
Jeb Bush’s education plan fulfills the American dream By JEANNE ALLEN Contributing Writer
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disembarked my flight to Tallahassee International the morning of my speaking engagement in 1995, tired from a long flight but ready to help solve Florida’s most pressing problems. To my surprise, Jeb Bush was waiting for those who came to speak at his new organization’s big event. The entire drive he peppered me with questions about promising education reform efforts, the way they might improve schools and the positive impact they could have on the state in general. After the event, Jeb drove us back to the airport. As we enjoyed a beverage waiting for our return flight, he made a toast, and a commitment to one day make the vision we outlined a reality for Floridians. It would not be long before he’d accomplish that vision. One of his tours around the state led him to T. Willard Fair, the long-time head of the Miami Urban League at his headquarters in Liberty City, one of the most opportunity-deprived areas in the country. Dedicated to the same opportunistic vision for America’s children, the two founded a charter school, literally using their heads and hands to build it from the ground up. Ten years later, despite achieving the state’s highest rating, it was forced to close its doors for good when the lease expired and the traditional system’s hostility toward charters deprived them of the necessary funds to build their own. When Jeb Bush became Governor in 1999
more than sixty percent of minority and lowincome fourth graders in Florida couldn’t read at a basic level. Barely half of Florida’s high-school seniors were graduating. Making educational opportunity a reality for every child was at the top of Jeb’s priority list and The Center for Education Reform was called on to work with state leaders to develop and adopt what remain dominant ideas and best practices for laws that improve schools, positively engage and involve parents, and help students achieve. According to the federally funded Nation’s Report Card, those laws created achievement gains in math and reading that were larger than anywhere else in the country—save Washington, D.C. Florida’s graduation rate improved twenty-five per cent, reaching an all-time high. Bush measured results, held schools accountable, and exposed them to competition. Even as vested interests in the system protested, student achievement accelerated. Today parents have choices among more than 600 exceptional charter schools and hundreds of private schools across the Sunshine state and district school scores are on a steady ascent. On top of that, the reality of higher education for more students exploded, improving life and economic conditions for scores more individuals at all levels of life. By 2003 Jeb was a hero to Floridians and to a growing, bi-partisan, multi-ethnic, education reform family around the country. To those who would prefer Trumpian hubris, Jeb’s humility might seem trite. But it’s because he sincerely respects the achievements of others that he shuns attention. In agreeing to accept an award for his leadership at
the CER 10th Anniversary gala, his stipulation was that the award go to his state, not to him, for the collective accomplishments they shared. One final story makes clear the depth to which this man will go for others. I had been speaking at the Governor’s education summit when a call had apparently come for me that my son had gone through a glass door back at home. When I finished, Governor Bush appeared and as he walked with me he said, “We have a car for you, your son was hurt and he’s okay but get going. God Bless.” It was nothing that a few stitches couldn’t fix. A day later, my son John got a gift from the Governor - a Jacksonville Jaguars hat and a hand written note wishing him well. Who does something like that? Jeb Bush does. Hundreds of people have told me about their hand written notes from Jeb. There are no doubt thousands more. Jeb values people. Rather than rather than scream and shout about ideas that are different and beliefs that differ, he offers compassion, direction and proven solutions to difficult situations. When I hear the criticisms that Jeb doesn’t come off enough as a fighter, I think about what this man has done for others with a quiet strength. This is a man who could step up to any podium and truthfully brag about his success, about the book he wrote about immigration long before others took credit for raising the issue, or the policies he got a huge majority of people to accept that allowed him to rebuild Florida– a state more populous than all but two others and nearly as complex as the federal government. Have you noticed that instead of “I” he usually says “we?” We fixed edu-
cation, we improved the economy. We. That’s not politics. It’s who he is. With his reserved ego and his well-informed understanding of policy and politics and his acknowledgement of the fact that nothing gets done, in either sphere, without a multitude of people, Jeb has shown in this campaign why he would make a great president. No, he doesn’t shout it from the rooftops but rather talks concretely about issues and solutions, shows proof of concept. He expects that others are like him – hungry for ideas, passionate about America doing better for everyone. And not expecting a show. His success in turning a slow sleepy state into an economic and attractive destination and place to live for millions more of all incomes, races and cultures is one thing. But his proposals for what he would do for the whole of America is even more exciting. This week Jeb Bush announced his plan to ensure that education opportunity and excellence becomes a reality for all people, from pre-K through higher education. His plan isn’t full of empty promises or reliant on the taxpayer to fund new ideas. Instead, he promises the distinctly American and all too lacking principles of freedom, flexibility and innovation to fuel a new generation of learning opportunities for learners at all levels. Parents with choices, educators with flexibility, schools with innovation – these things require changes in law not new money, changes that give us power, and allow us all to achieve the American dream. Editor’s Note: Jeanne Allen is the president-emeritus of the Center for Education Reform.
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T N R B O O L P G P B I C Y U K R L O J H X R Z S
X Y E L Z B Z O P Z I R D B L E L Y G Q N A E O U
T L D B G C Z Q C B O N S C B A U P N X S B S Y E
B H D Q J O G T I L A P M U R T A S H A O O P H O
Hillary Clinton Bernie Sanders Martin OMalley
T P G U W Q D Y V R A J Z M O G P W I I A A N X J
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JAN. 25, 2016