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May 31, 2017
Summer scholarship to push for four-year graduate rates By Miki Shine E D I T O R
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C H I E F
A new scholarship being offered to seniors to improve graduation rates could push USF closer to achieving preeminence. The scholarship is geared toward students who plan to complete their final 12 credit hours over summer, and it covers all tuition and fees while also ensuring access to required texts. Specifically, it’s being offered to students who started in summer or fall of 2013 and , which directly impacts USF’s four-year graduation rate for pre-eminence. The scholarship is geared toward students who plan to complete their final 12 credit hours over summer, and it covers all tuition and fees while also ensuring access to required texts.
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“We certainly believe we are on the path to pre-eminence,” Paul Dosal, vice president of Student Affairs, said. “My role is to promote student success. I’ve been promoting this for seven years anyway. We’re on the path, to me it’s just a question of when.” USF was hoping to meet the state’s pre-eminence requirements this year, but legislative changes recently excluded the university’s eligibility.pushed that back. During this past term, the Florida Legislature looked at changing one of the requirements from a six-year graduation rate at 70 percent to a four-year graduation rate at 50 percent. USF’s four-year graduation rate is 56 percent. However, a change on the last day of the session pushed the benchmark up to a four-
Full moon viewing event Page 4
One small victory for Florida women Page 6
year graduation rate at 60 percent. The current expected date for USF to reach this benchmarkhat is for the 2020 school year. Along with the title of preeminence, USF would also split a pool of state funding with UF and FSU that was $48 million for this year. Provost Ralph Wilcox said in an interview with The Oracle that the funds from achieving pre-eminence would mostly be going toward hiring more professors. As it is, the new scholarship is currently only offered to seniors graduating this summer as a pilot program. “If the pilot system is positive, we’ll certainly look at building financial incentives into our tuition structure. Whatever that looks like,” Dosal said. According to Dosal, this scholarship is a continuation of programs that encourage students to graduate in four years, such as the Take 15 campaign and Finish in Four, Save More. The difference, he said, is the financial incentive. To take 12 credit hours costs in-state students $2,534.28 and out-of-state students $6,900.12 in tuition and fees. Dosal said approximately 150 students had registered to receive the scholarship;, which also includes long-term textbook check-out from the library is also included. Students who possiblycould qualify received an email, and phone calls are now being made to try to recruit get more students to registered. Dosal and university spokesman Adam Freeman weren’t sure how many students would need to graduate during summer to achieve a 60 percent
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Bulls land No. 2 seed in regional Page 8
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the Oracle
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NEWS
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
News Briefs
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New 3-D display in library allows students to explore
SG Senate votes against CLCE remodel In a 3 to 20 vote the Student Government Senate denied a fiscal proposal that would fund renovations to the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement (CLCE) student organizations workspace. These offices can be found on the third floor of the Marshall Student Center. The bill requested $47,700 of unallocated student funds to make the work area a more open and collaborative environment. CLCE representatives said the full project would cost upwards of $60,000 after all phases were complete. The Senate found the cost of the current proposal to be a misuse of student funds and fiscally irresponsible.
None injuried in Orlando airport incident Police responded to reports of a gunman in the Orlando airport Tuesday night, according to CNN. The suspect and police had a lengthy standoff in the rental car area of the airport that resulted in the man being arrested. No shots were fired and nobody was physically injured in the incident.
A new display in the library allows students to explore the first floor through a 3-D map. SPECIAL TO THE ORACLE/LORI COLLINS
By Maria Ranoni C O R R E S P O N D E N T
If you haveStudents who have visited the library recently, you may have noticed a new addition;. Visible in iIn the lobby, there is a new 3-D interactive display that allows grants visitors to get a bird’s eye view, and or “street” view, toof the first floor of the library. There is also a feature that allows users to click on different points, like the digital media commons or the library services, to get more information about that section of the library. This display is mainly funded and developed by a research group started last year known as the Digital Heritage & Humanities Collection (DHHC). According to their its website, their its mission is to “document heritage sites, landscapes and objects, and to create digital learning tools and collections that promote sustainable heritage tourism and interpretation strategies through the use of 3-D and imaging technologies.” With a 3-D camera and necessary computer software at
hand, the DHHC was able to create this extensive “digital tour.” The tour includes a feature that allows users to click on different locations -- , such aslike the digital media commons or library services --, to getaccess more information about that section of the library. Currently, this display only includes the first floor., Hhowever, according to the director of the DHHC, Dr. Lori Collins, this is only just onean example of what is possible with this the new technology. In the future, the DHHC would like to expand this model to include all floors of the library and make basic tasks such aslike finding a quiet place to study or locating a book to check-outcheckout easier. It is even possible to take this further throughout campus to provide more substantial maps for visitors and students. , according to Dr. Collins. She also stated one of the group’s goals is to eventually incorporate this idea into an easyto-use app for students to utilize. This 3-D technology is not just simply limited to navigation purposes, howeverthough. Dr. Collins said the DHHC is “is
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working in hand with the Digital Media Commons to get bring 3-D printing, 3-D and scanning, and all kinds of photogrammetry tools and 3-D technologies available for students to use as well.”. While the DHHC is just starting to explore this mapping technology, they it have has a more extensive collection of various ancient artifacts and maps that can be viewed on a tablet in virtual reality on the first floor of the library as well. This can make it possible for students to really explore the history of other cultures in a way that a text booktextbook simply cannot offer. This canAlso, this technology reinvents make the typical library experience and makes itbit more exciting. According to Collins, “students “Students can take these objects and go into virtual reality mode and view them in full virtual reality,.” Collins said. 3-D technology may have an interesting use on USF’s campus and it Collins is exciteding to see exactly how it will play more of a part in students’ lives.
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graduation rate for this year. James Wiley, a graduating senior who is receiving the scholarship, said it didn’t encourage him to take more credits over the summer. “I needed six more credit hours to graduate, and I was already taking two summer classes so it was very convenient for me,” Wiley said. The students not able to receive the scholarship have mixed opinions about it. While the idea of helping others graduate is generally positive, some were thrown offapprehensive by the uncertain future of the project. “I feel like its not fair to me because if I was someone who struggled through college, if I’m struggling to get my tuition paid, and I wasn’t able to have access to this free tuition to get out of college early I would feel like they’re gypping me or showing favoritism to certain students,” Coleman Bahr, a third year majoring in business analytics, said. “I want to have access to the same opportunities that every other student has access to.” Dosal said this was approached with some concerns and the program won’t necessarily continue. He said he plans to emphasize the pilot nature of this scholarship and hopes to adjust the practices after the results are reviewed. “Knowing that it was such an attractive program, or at least we thought it was on paper, that some students lets say who started their career here in 2014 that they might think ‘well, will this be available to me next year?’” Dosal said. “And the answer is ‘not necessarily, we don’t know.’” As a student currently reaeping the benefits of the program, Wiley said the program should continue. “I kind of wish that things like this could happen more often,” Wiley said. “I feel like when students are getting not only just financial aid but also other types of support — like I’ve had them reach out to me about my books being available in the library — that it really motives people to get their degree and finish on time.”
LIFESTYLE
Astronomy club to host full moon viewing
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SPECIAL TO THE ORACLE
By Jacqueline Miller C O R R E S P O N D E N T
From the twinkling lights of the stars to the glow of a full moon, students have the opportunity to enjoy the heavens with the astronomy club at Riverfront Park. All students are welcome as pPrior knowledge of astronomy is not required. Students with telescopes or binoculars are encouraged to bring them. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a physics major;, it doesn’t matter if you have an astronomy minor;, it doesn’t matter if you’re not a (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) major,” Kyle Denny said Kyle Denny, a
junior majoring in physics and president of the astronomy club president, said. “You could be anything and you could come join the astronomy club. It is open to anyone who just wants to connect and learn about the universe and appreciate it.” Most of the club’s events take place at Withlacoochee River Park or Riverfront Park. Students can drive themselves or join a carpooling list if they need transportation. The astronomy club hosts activities such as stargazing, full moon watching and eclipse viewing. “We do a lot of events, too, when planets are in opposition.” Kami Malestein said Kami Malestein, a junior
majoring in physics and astronomy club vice president, said. The astronomy club hosts many activities such as stargazing, full moon watching and eclipse viewing. Sand sStudents with telescopes or binoculars are encouraged to bring them. One of Denny’s favorite events was the transit of Mercury’s transit in May of last year. “We watched the planet Mercury go in front of the sun,” Denny said, “and that was in front of the ISA building and we had a great turnout for that one.” The number of students at an event varies from around five to ten people on rainy stormy days nights to
about a hundred for events occurrences such aslike the Mercury transit. An even larger turnout is expected for the upcoming solar eclipse on Aug. 21; the viewing location on campus is yet to be determined. “Although it won’t be a total eclipse visible over USF, there will be a partial phase. Eighty percent of the sun will be blocked out, and it’ll be on the very first day of school,” Denny said. “People are going to stop by and wonder what’s going on with the sun, so they get a chance to look at the sun in a really spectacular event.” Most of the club’s events take place at Withlacoochee River Park or Riverfront Park, with transportation either
through students driving themselves or joining a carpooling list. The astronomy club is one of athe few clubs that remain active during the summer. Their with t. The next event is is scheduled for to be on the next full moon, on , June 9,, at Riverfront Park. “The times that there are not thunderstorms, the Milky Way is nice and prominent in the night sky. You can see it from horizon to horizon,” Denny said. “It’s a really inspiring experience. So, the summer is probably the best time to really look up at the night sky and really appreciate it.”
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Eliminating the tampon tax is one small victory for Florida women
Gov. Rick Scott’s signature to end taxes on femanine hygiene products is only the beginning of what needs to happen to support women’s health in Florida. SPECIAL TO THE ORACLE By Renee Perez C O L U M N I S T
With a stroke of Gov. Rick Scott’s pen, Florida joined the ranks of a mere 13 other states in eliminating the sales tax on menstrual hygiene products -- commonly dubbed the tampon tax -- last Thursday. The long overdue slashing of the tampon tax is only one part of a $180 million tax cut package that goes into effect will be set into effect in January of 2018. The package categorizes products such as tampons, menstrual pads, and menstrual cups as “common household remedies,” successfully disallowing their taxation. Although this is certainly a vic-
tory for Florida women -- the cut is estimated to save the state’s consumers $11 million in menstrual products each year -- the state still has a long road ahead in terms of guaranteeing fundamental rights across the gender spectrum. In a stroke of irony that cannot be overstated, Governor Scott approved the tampon tax cut precisely on the one-year anniversary of another serious cut: House Bill 1411.1, This which, amongbill, among other drastic measures,, removesd state funding from any clinic that performs abortions, most prominently Planned Parenthood. House Bill 1411The bill also puts a cork in state funding to organizations with any sort of affiliation to
a clinic that provides abortions, in addition to imposing strenuous licensing requirements and obstacles for family planning clinics. These changes make it more difficult for clinics, making it more difficult for them to provide administer their many vital services to women across the Sunshine State. Family planning clinics, such aslike Planned Parenthood, are key to ensuring equal opportunity and basic healthcare across the gender spectrum, particularly for lowincome Floridians in areas with sparse medical services. According to Planned Parenthood, 70 percent of their clinics in Florida , which provide crucial services like STD testing and breast cancer screenings at
a discounted price, are located in medically underserved regions of the state. These clinics provide crucial services like STD testing and breast cancer screenings at a discounted price and are consequently This makes them an indispensable resource for thousands of women seeking access to basic medical careservices. AdditionallyPlanned Parenthood additionally states that, 79 percent of Planned Parenthoodits patients have “incomes at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level,” so the affordable rates offered at the clinics often make the difference between them receiving or foregoing important medical attention. And yet, Governor Scott and
the Florida Llegislature proudly stripped these clinics and their affiliates of state money, effectivelyin effect stripping thousands of women of a critical resource that helps guarantee their bodily autonomy. So sure, those of us who menstruate in Florida will be paying less for still-overpriced menstrual products ---- iit only took 172 years to be deemed a necessity by Florida law -- but do not be fooled;: there is a tremendous amount of work to be done in this state and this country before people of all genders have equal access to basic necessities.
Renee Perez is a junior majoring in political science.
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We are Rhyno Glass. One of the fastest growing successful glass companies in the Tampa Bay area. We Specialize in mid-sized commercial projects, within the state of Florida and up and down the east coast. We are currently looking for students who needs hands on experience to complement and reinforce what they are learning in the classroom. This special individual must be self-motivated creative and solution driven. Be prepared to work on high profile projects that impact the landscape of the Tampa bay area in a positive way. Some of our landmark projects include... Top Golf Car Dealerships Health Care Facilities Educational Facilities And many more Learn more about Rhyno Glass @ www.rhynoglass.com The responsibilities of this position include however are not limited to: - AutoCAD / Drafting work - Detailing and design of window systems - Specific take off and detailing software - Working with architectural drawings and specifications - Working with structural engineers to achieve project specifics solutions - Problem solving in all facets of design and implementation of window systems - Fabrication and assembly assistance - Submittals, product data and product specifications - Working in all programs associated with Microsoft Suites - Project management assistance - Assisting project managers with day to day tasks *Auto CAD / Drafting experience is a PLUS! Compensation: $10-12 / Hour Send resume to : wyatt@rhynoglass. com
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Sports
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
Baseball
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USF Baseball selected as No. 2 seed in Gainesville regional
Football
Former USF QB arrested in Tampa
Steven Bench started three games for the Bulls from 2013 -2015 SPECIAL TO THE ORACLE By Josh Fiallo S P O R T S
With a 41-17 record, USF has the most wins in a sinlge season since 1996. SPECIAL TO THE ORACLE By Josh Fiallo S P O R T S
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With a 41-win resume, the question at the NCAA selection show watch party wasn’t ‘Will USF Baseball make it into the 64-team NCAA tournament?’ but instead was, ‘Who will they play?’ The Bulls had to wait until the very last bracket to learn that they’d be playing in the Gainesville regional, but showed little anxiety as they watched in the Sun Dome. As it was revealed that USF (41-17) will play as the No. 2 seed for the region, the players rose to their feet and recorded every second of the celebration on their cellphones. Now with their phones away and preparation starting, USF will play third-seeded Bethune Cookman (33-23) at 1 p.m. Friday at the University of Florida’s
McKethan Stadium. The region’s other two teams - No. 1 Florida (42-16) and No. 4 Marist (32-21) - will play at McKethan Stadium later that night. The regional will be played in a double-elimination format and only the winner will advance to a super-regional. “At this point there are no easy games, everybody you play has a chance to win,” coach Mark Kingston said after the selection show. “We’ll go into the regional confident, but also very respectful of our opponents.” Of the three teams in the Gainesville regional, Florida was the only opponent USF played during the regular season. The Bulls scored a season-high 15 runs in a 15-10 triumph at Florida on May 9. Though USF and Bethune
Cookman never met during the regular season, they faced several of the same opponents throughout the year, with the Wildcats going 7-11 against these teams and USF going 11-7. Marist, a school in up-state New York, didn’t have any of the same opponents as the Bulls and punched its ticket into the NCAA Tournament through an automatic bid by winning the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference tournament. Florida is ranked as the No. 3 team in the nation, and is the favorite to win the regional. However, for USF’s First Team All-Conference shortstop Kevin Merrell, the opponent doesn’t matter. “We’re just so excited,” Merrell said. “We don’t really care too much about who we play. We know we have a really good team, and our coaches have put us in a
really good position to win.” This year’s trip to the NCAA tournament will be USF’s 12th in program history and Kingston’s second in three seasons as coach for the Bulls. “We want to be a team that’s always being considered for the NCAA Tournament,” Kingston said. “So far, two out of three years we’ve been able to do that. “The more often you go, the better chance you have of breaking through to Omaha.” Going 3-7 in their past ten games, the Bulls will have to turn things around to make that breakthrough run happen this season. “It’s a great opportunity to have a chance to get to Omaha,” Merrell said. “It’s been our goal since last August, and we think we have a really good shot.”
E D I T O R
Former Bulls quarterback Steven Bench was arrested in Tampa early Monday morning on burglary and criminal mischief charges. Bench, who started three games in his time at USF, was arrested shortly after 3:30 a.m. at Prestige Car Wash & Lube at 2306 Kennedy Blvd. According to the arrest affidavit, Bench used force to enter the business and activated an alarm. He then broke the front glass window with an object to aide his exit. That same affidavit states that Bench later admitted to an arresting office that he broke into the business, but would not give a reason why. Bench was arrested on one felony count of burglary of an unoccupied dwelling and a misdemeanor count of criminal mischief, according to the affidavit. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office records show that Bench was released from the county jail late Monday morning, making his bail of $8,000. As a Bull, Bench saw the field minimally, playing under starting quarterbacks Mike White and Quinton Flowers in his three-year career at USF. He threw for a total of 1,180 yards, seven touchdowns and six interceptions. Bench transferred to USF from Penn State his freshman year after completing two passes for 12 yards as a member of the Nittany Lions.