fresh
NEW LOOK & UNIT UPGRADES
coming summer 2018
APARTMENT UPGRADES
1, 2 & 3-bedroom apartments Washer & dryer included Walk-in closets Quartz countertops in kitchen/bath Stainless steel appliances Deep basin sinks in kitchen/bath Updated lighting
COMMUNITY AMENITIES Pool, sundeck & ďŹ re pit Monthly resident events Computer lounge Fitness center Clubhouse & game room Coffee bar Pet park
BRING THIS AD IN FOR WAIVED APPLICATION FEES*
SAVE $70!
*EXPIRES 7/31/18, MUST PRESENT AD, RESTRICTIONS APPLY
CROWNECAMPUSPOINTE.COM 865.633.9422
summer 2018 | volume 135 | issue 29
Jerry Bush
Director, Office of Student Media
Patrick Lamb
Media Specialist, Office of Student Media
Chelsea Babin, Taylor Gash, Hannah Knoch, Miya McClain On Rocky Top Staff
Zenobia Armstrong
Student Advertising Manager
Mandy Adams, Amy Nelson, Sydney Pickering Media Sales Representatives
Nathaniel Alsbrooks Advertising Production
Hello New Vols: Letter from the Editor
2
First Year Studies: a Break from Traditional Learning
4
Hung Out to Dry: Hand Dryers Replace Paper Towels on Campus
5
Festival Central: Music Festivals in Tennessee
6
Meet Your SGA Officers
8
Knox Rox: How to get into the Local Music Scene
10
10 Things I Wish Someone Would’ve Told Me
12
Home Sweet Home: Rocky Top’s 50th
14
Crossword Puzzles
16
UT Men’s Rugby: Based in Tradiotn, Still Going Strong
19
Alumni: Looking Back on thier Years at UT On Rocky Top Magazine is produced by UT Student Media - the home of UTK’s student-run news publication, The Daily Beacon. UT Student Media 11 Communications Building Univeristy of Tennessee, Knoxville 37966-5569 Student Media Advertising Department
865.974.5206 admanager@utk.edu
This guide is a commercial product produced by the Office of Student Media at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. Its proceeds support the Office of Student Media.
20
Coping with Stress
21
UT Leadership: DiPietro, Davis Address Recent UT Leadership Changes
22
Urbanized Dining: The Central Filling Station
28
865 Night Market: Showcasing Cultures on Campus
30
Quarterback U: Chryst brings pro-style potential for Vols’ new offense
34
Hard Work, Position Battles: What’s in store for the Lady Vol’s Future
37
On the Rebound: Barnes Sets His Sights on Next Season
38
The Pride Center: Reviving Programming
44
Inclusion in this guide is not an endorsement from the University of Tennessee Knoxville, the Office of Student Media or any of the university’s employees.
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
3
HELLO, NEW VOLS: welcome to rocky top First, let me introduce myself. My name is Kylie Hubbard and I am a junior studying journalism. I am excited, honored, happy and every adjective in between to be Editor-in-Chief for the 2018-2019 school year. My passion for journalism started at a young age through literary magazine club in elementary school and yearbook in middle school. But my passion for UT started from the moment I was born. My mom received a bachelor’s degree from UT and my dad also shared a passion for UT, especially their sports. I think I wore a UT onesie one of the first days of my life. Go-to Halloween costume? UT cheerleader. Game days? Catch me in a UT t-shirt that was big enough to be a dress. Favorite toy? A UT pom-pom.
Be brave- this university is nothing to be afraid of. College is harder than high school, college life is tougher than high school life. It won’t be easy, but it will easily be some of the best years of your life. You won’t really know what you’re doing when you get to campus but you’ll figure it out. I mean, I didn’t start even start in journalism- graphic design was my first major- but I eventually found my way back to something that tickled my fancy. Advice there? Don’t worry about what you’re going to do with your life or your first day on campus because your first year at UT will show you different sides of the world you’ve never seen and will present you with a billion opportunities to follow your true passions. The Daily Beacon served as my first glimpse into what I would see on campus before I even decided to work for the Beacon. I saw activities I liked, places I wanted visit, clubs I wanted to join and learned more about the campus climate I was stepping into. I hope that this issue can serve as something like that for you- something that you can learn from and use to look forward to your first day as a Volunteer in the fall. News isn’t always good, but we promise to tell the stories you wish to hear. As you embark on this new start, let us know how we can share your campus experience. You’re officially On Rocky Top, a new Home Sweet Home, and we can’t wait to share this campus with you.
I was nervous to follow in the footsteps of not only my orange-blooded family, but in the footsteps of those who passed through the land-grant university before me. Peyton Manning. Reggie White. Scott Kelly. Margaret Rhea Seddon.
Kylie Hubbard
No, I’m not an astronaut. Or an athlete. But these are just two ends of a spectrum full of things UT offers.
Editor-in-Chief
F Y S Meet other first-year students & get involved
Connect with an instructor & peer mentor early in your college career
Explore campus resources & improve study skills
FYS offers classes that help make your first-year at UT even better than expected.
Explore sessions & topics at fys.utk.edu.
2
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
3
FIRST-YEAR STUDIES a break from traditional learning Eric Bailes, Staff Writer
First Year Studies (FYS) 129 classes Although the plot of the series is often allow freshman students to take a class that offers little stress in the midst of their first year on campus. With different classes offered every semester, students can choose from a class based solely on something they are interested in, rather than a class focused on their major.
drawn out to fantasy, a common theme is carried throughout the series-the value of family. During the class, students will learn how to analyze messages within pop culture and figure out for themselves what family means to them, both blood relatives and not.
The fall semester classes offer a variety of special topics that students can choose from, based on what the professor wishes to offer.
Students will watch each movie and a lesson will be taught based on the film’s themes. For example, “The Fate of the Furious” features Dominic Toretto turning his back on his crew to help the villain in the movie. The lesson from the movie is that his crew never gives up on him, standing by him even when it looks like he betrayed them.
One of the more interesting classes offered this fall is “Fast and Furious: The Robin Hoods of Modern Times.” Incoming freshman can take a class on the “Fast and Furious” franchise, taught by Michael Martinez, an assistant professor in the School of Journalism and Electronic Media and self-professed “gear head.”
4
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Based on that, students will be asked to think of a time someone turned their back on them, where they remained loyal regardless, and trusted there was a reason they were acting the way they were.
“It’s a good entreé into college life. It’s not so serious, let’s face it, the first year in college is tough,” Martinez said. “If you can do something that can ease that transition, make you feel a little more comfortable, I think that’s valuable. I think the First Year Studies classes do that because in general, they’re aimed at being fun.”
Braquet decided to teach the class after the 2016 elections and the resulting protests and social movements that came as a result of the election. Wanting LGBTQ+ students and allies to know they are part of a movement that has lasted decades, Braquet decided to focus her class on events and groups that dealt with resistance and civil disobedience.
For those wanting to take a class that provides knowledge useful for interacting with people they will likely meet during the course of their life, “Resistance and Resilience: LGBTQ History” is an option.
At the end of the class, Braquet hopes that students will walk away with several things, one of which is that students in the class will be able to make friends with queer and ally students they will know for the rest of their time at UT.
Taught by Donna Braquet, a librarian at Hodges Library, the class will explore the major events in LGBTQ history that are often not taught in traditional high school history classes. Besides learning the history, the class will also investigate how direct action and protest pushed equality forward and how history can teach students ways to deal with challenges faced today.
“I want them to know that their community has a history and that they are able to contribute to it, just as others have done,” Braquet said. “I also want them to learn about the resiliency that marginalized people and communities have. They face discrimination, hatred and violence, and yet they fight back and move society forward.”
HUNG OUT TO DRY: Hand dryers replace paper towels on campus By Sami Shope, Contributor
The latest installment in an effort
and keep campus cleaner and greener,” UT Recycling Manager Jay Price said in a statement. “This will help campus get a lot closer to zero waste.”
In March, the university started its latest green initiative project, which involves replacing paper towel dispensers around campus with 1,000 new hand dryers. As a phased project, the most-used buildings around campus will receive the hand dryers first, and the slated completion date for high-use restrooms is the end of June. The order in which the buildings will receive hand dryers can be found here.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention claims the best way to dry hands after washing them is unclear, and studies regarding the debate have returned conflicting results. General Superintendent of Construction for Facilities Services Bryan Lord said his team discussed all of the various consequences and gains from the project.
to spread green initiatives across UT’s orange campus will eventually eliminate paper towel holders in restrooms.
Hand dryers will be standard for new buildings and restrooms moving forward in order to correlate with UT’s goal of transitioning to a zero-waste campus. “We are excited about this opportunity to save material, labor, and disposal costs
coordinator said the decision to replace the paper towel dispensers with hand dryers will lead to better sanitary conditions across campus. “After washing your hands, it is recommended to not touch additional surfaces — automated hand dryers eliminate another surface the hands have to come in contact with after handwashing,” AmatusSalaam said.
“Environmental concerns were taken into account,” Lord said. “After considering other options and taking costs and future environmental impact into account, we reached the decision to install hand dryers.”
The project will also reduce costs for the university. Hand dryers will reduce cleaning labor costs and reduce the amount of money spent on bathroom supplies such as paper towels and trash bags.
Bilqis Amatus-Salaam, Center for Health Education and Wellness (CHEW)
“In the Humanities and Social Sciences
building, the university spends approximately $3,800 monthly, just for paper towels,” Lord said. “In addition to keeping the paper towels stocked, there are other expenses such as labor to deliver and haul off the paper towels.” Lord said the university has room to grow in ensuring that students have the healthiest resources during their time on campus. “When this issue came about four years ago, that was one of our first concerns addressed,” Lord said. “The debate on hand dryers versus paper towels has been ongoing for over two decades.” Amatus-Salaam agreed and said the hand dryers are just one step toward addressing the physical and environmental health of campus.
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
5
photo by bonnaroo.com/ Andrew Jorgensen
MUSIC FESTIVAL TIME IN TENNESSEE: from beale street to bonnaroo Chelsea Babin, On Rocky Top Writer photos courtesy of Bonnaroo.com
Music festivals are the epitome of the millennial and hipster culture. Festivals happen all over the world, but a handful are held here in our own backyard. From Beale Street to Rhythm & Blooms to CMA Music Festival and Bonnaroo, Tennessee is no stranger to musical events. June will be overloaded with a variety of music. CMA Music Festival is June 7-10 in Nashville. Bonnaroo is also June 7-10, but in Manchester. Following those two, Riverbend Music Festival is June 8-16 in Chattanooga. Then music lovers and festival goers will get a small break to recoup until September when the Moon River Festival Kicks off along with the Pilgrimage and Culture Festival. College students from all over Tennessee attend the various festivals throughout the summer months. It is no surprise that many UT students are in attendance. Bonnaroo is perhaps the biggest and most popular festival among UT students and it is on a farm in Manchester. AC Entertainment was founded by Ashley Capps and is a Knoxville-based media production company that is quite popular with the oncampus entertainment. In 2002, with the help of Superfly Productions, Bonnaroo was born. According to dictionary.com, “Bonnaroo” is actually Creole slang for “best on the street.” The name came from the album Desitively Bonnaroo by Dr. John. Dr. John is a jazz legend and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, so it only makes sense that he inspired such an incredible music festival. Each year’s lineup for Bonnaroo features big name artists. This year some of the artists are Eminem, The Killers, Muse, Future, Bassnectar, Moon Taxi, R.LUM.R, and many, many more.
6
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Some students who have gone previously, plan on attending again this June. Junior, Bree Crane, went to the farm for the first time last year and fell in love with the festival so she is going again this year.
acceptance, and kindness is just an [understanding] in the Bonnaroo world,” says Crane. “I honestly miss it every day and this June can’t come fast enough.”
“My automatic first impression was how nice everyone was,” says Crane. “And I mean, very nice, like not fake nice.”
Bonnaroo creates its own universe for its festival goers. It’s nothing but positivity and great music, according to Crane. “It’s just the kind of place you always want to be in, surrounded by the most positive and inspiring of people, who you have probably never met before in your life.”
Crane mentioned that complete strangers were usually super helpful when you needed something and would offer to lend you whatever you needed, if they had it.
UT senior Cameron Watkins has also been to The Farm. He attended the festival last year when the headliners were Chance the Rapper, the Weeknd, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. “The coolest part to me was all the different sets, stages, and all the little attractions they had...the mushroom waterpark and food trucks from all over,” says Watkins. Watkins plans to attend again in the future if he likes the lineup, he says that it’s draining to attend the festival and to do it right, it can be very expensive. “I think if I were to go again, I would do V.I.P.” says Watkins. photo by bonnaroo.com/ Andrew Jorgensen
“The mutual respect for individuality, music, self-love,
Other students share similar experiences as Crane and Watkins. Senior Olivia Johnson has also been to
photo by bonnaroo.com/ Andrew Jorgensen
Bonnaroo previously. “The shows are the best part,” says Johnson. “You can experience any [music] genre within a five minute walk.” Johnson says that people bring inflatables, signs, flags, flying toys and pass them around during the different concerts. “I vividly remember people passing around these flying spin toys into the sky during Elton John’s “Rocket Man” performance,” says Johnson. Watkins, Crane, and Johnson all had extremely different experiences, but each one had a great one nonetheless. More information about all the music festivals in Tennessee can be found at musicfestivalwizard.com or tnvacation.com.
Want to get inVOLved as a first-year student? Attend an IGNITE session this summer
Serve on an Alternative Break
Learn more at Orientation Informational Sessions
leadershipandservice.utk.edu Contact us at leadserve@utk.edu or 865-974-1039.
@LeadServeUTK
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
7
photo courtesy Elgin Akin
MEET YOUR SGA: 2018-2019 student government leaders Hannah Knoch, On Rocky Top Writer
Each year, the student body elects a new set The new student body executives are: Student of executive representatives who connect the students to the faculty and vice versa. These executives serve alongside the Student and Faculty Senates as the head of the Student Government Association. The SGA Mission is as follows: “The Student Government Association exists to provide the student body with a means to deal with the affairs of students and as a forum for the expression of student views concerning student life within the university.” To really be a beneficiary of the SGA, it helps to know: who is your benefactor – or in this case who are your benefactors.
8
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Body President Ovi Kabir, Student Body Vice President Haley Paige, and Student Services Director Maddie Stevens. They fully intend to get to know this student body, by being “approachable and accessible.” Throughout the summer they plan to get to know freshman at orientations and new student activities, but overall, they “will work tirelessly to make sure [first year students’] voices are heard and included on campus.” Each officer shares a passion for the university and in the words of Kabir, they all “bleed the same shade of orange.” Look out for your student body officers next year! They will be looking for you.
Ovi Kabir is a senior studying politi-
cal science with a minor in leadership studies and a pre-law concentration. He comes from a small, two-stop-light town called Jellico in East Tennessee. He later moved to Oak Ridge, TN where he got involved with rowing which lead him to compete on UT’s club rowing team once he got to UT. As a part-time job, Ovi is a youth rowing coach. He also founded the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. His largest passion is “creating a better university,” and he intends to address this passion by serving as Student Body President.
Maddie Stephens is a
Haley Paige is a senior study-
senior with an English-Literature major and a minor in Leadership studies. She is a Knoxville native, and outside of school, she is a swim coach for her neighborhood summer league team. As a self-professed book-worm she has a love of learning and invests in other people’s stories. She serves with the Center for Leadership and Service as an Ignite Serves Team Leader and a Leadership Knoxville Scholar. As the Student Services Director, Maddie’s goal is to “connect with everyone I meet, making them feel valued and appreciated.”
ing chemistry with a minor in psychology. She prides herself on being “very genuine and religious.” She is from Memphis, Tennessee, and her passion is her family. She “unapologetically stands against what she deems unjust and stands for what is morally right.” As Student Body Vice President, Haley “will strive to makes sure [her] peers receive the best and have their voices heard.” photo courtesy Ariel Williams
photo courtesy Elgin Akin
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
9
KNOX ROX: how to get into the local music scene Hannah Knoch, On Rocky Top Writer photos courtesy of The Daily Beacon
Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville. It may seem that the only thing these three Tennessee cities have in common is Tennessee and a population of Vol fans. There is, however, a third factor that unites the three cities: music. No, Knoxville doesn’t claim to be “Music City” or the “Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” but Knoxville has a vibrant local music scene that far too often goes unnoticed. There are opportunities to see free or inexpensive live music all over the city, local radio stations champion local artists and K-town is a hotbed for music festivals featuring a wide variety of artists, both big names and the newest names in music. Despite the several music venues around Knoxville, for those unfamiliar
10
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
with the city, it can be difficult to break into the music scene. Chloe DeLuca, editor for WUTK’s Blog of the Rock, shared her experience moving to Knoxville and discovering the music scene that would help prepare her for a career in the music business. Originally from California, DeLuca had to learn her way around Knoxville’s music scene pretty quickly after being assigned to work at the on-campus radio station WUTK as a Graduate Assistant from the school of Journalism and Electronic Media. What’s Chloe’s go-to for finding shows around town? WUTK’s concert calendar. The Concert Calendar is announced on 90.3 at the 7: 40, 12:40, and 5:40 music breaks. The deejay reads you the band, location and time
of the show, so tuning in is a great way to become familiar with the names of bands as well as music venues. The next step according to DeLuca is following up with your own research on the band and location of the show via social media. A venue’s Facebook page is always a good place to go as well as the band’s Facebook page. She also recommends looking at The Daily Beacon for show promotion and reading WUTK’s music blog for information on bands, album reviews, and overall
Scruffy City Hall, and rounding out the top three is “just any festival we have here.” DeLuca shares, for anyone new to the city, especially freshmen, “it’s a really good idea to check out these festivals, because it gives you a really good opportunity to emerge in
music edification.
the environment. If you’re not familiar with Knoxville at all, you’ll definitely get a good introduction with the city by listening to music, practically outside, under these overpasses...it’s just different.”
Another great way to discover new music and celebrate some more popular favorites at the same time is to attend a music festival, and if a festival is what you crave, Knoxville is a great place to be. DeLuca claims that festivals target Knoxville because “the music scene is so diverse. You have alternative, you have rock, you have bluegrass, you have folk, you have hip hop. There’s a good mix of every kind of music here...” That diversity of music is the primary reason that a festival is an amazing way to learn about new music she continues, “It’s such a great opportunity to learn about bands you’ve never even heard of because they are local bands that might be up-and-coming and are growing their following here.” In fact, if Chloe had to rank her top three music venues in Knoxville she would start with the Mill and Mine (my personal favorite as well), then
Lastly, use your resources, Chloe says, “Everyone needs to listen to WUTK, support the campus radio station, because we are the guys who play new music first. We are constantly throwing radio specialty shows at you...all kinds of shows by student deejays that play really interesting music and it’s an awesome radio station!” With more than 30 places to catch a live show, Knoxville could not be more welcoming to local artists. Chloe’s final tip for uncovering your new favorite band or venue: “Just get off campus! Go to Market Square! Go to Old City!” A little exploration and research will go a long way in a quest to uncover the Knoxville Music Scene.
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
11
THE MORE YOU VISIT
THE MORE YOU EARN 10 THINGS: i wish someone would’ve told me
REGAL APP DOWNLOAD THE
AND GET REWARDED
Student discounts available at these locations:
REGmovies.com
Riviera 8 & Downtown West 8
Chelsea Babin, On Rocky Top Writer
As a senior I have learned many different skills over the last four years. I’ve learned how to use my absences effectively, how to survive on less than five hours of sleep and barely any food (I don’t drink coffee either––I know, I know, how am I a college student?) and I’ve also learned how to wait until the last minute to do anything. Those are not the best skills to have obtained over the years, but they have helped me get through college. On the other hand, I have actually learned many helpful skills that will help me succeed in life. I’ve learned how to effectively do research for projects and papers, how to give speeches, how to navigate campus and how to be independent. College has also helped me find my voice and taught me to be proactive when it comes to something I am passionate about. Here are ten things that I wish someone would have told me as a beginning freshmen: 1. “Go to office hours! It really helps!” Lainey Goodwill 2. “To read rate my professor” Felicia Dattilo 3. “To put myself first and to not worry about everything else as much” Rachel Ryan 4. “Develop relationships with your professors. I figured it out along the way, but I would have loved more time to develop relationships and network. I am close to a few now, and I am so grateful I am.” Lexie Little 5. “Nobody knows what they’re doing, even if it looks like they have everything figured out. College is a weird, changing time for everyone, so don’t compare your journey to someone else’s.” Taylor Owens 6. “To feel like a Vol. It’s important to live on campus, and it doesn’t hurt to be strictly the traditional student variety.” Bridget Barbour 7. “Take summer classes as much as you can, so you can stay ahead.” Megan Hodges 8. “Keep a daily calendar. Don’t date anyone your freshman year. Build foundational relationships. Go to bed before midnight most nights.” James Wilson 9. “I wish someone would have told me that there is no point in buying college books! It kills me knowing that my first year of college I spent over $600 for books that I didn’t open not once.” Brooke Wainwright 10. “Don’t slack off in the first few weeks/months of the semester” David Torres College is a great experience, and you’ll learn so much about life and yourself. Use these four years to learn as much as you can and make memories that’ll last forever. Let me be the first to say, welcome to Rocky Top!
12
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
13
HOME SWEET HOME: Rocky Top’s 50th spotlights what the song means to UT Gabriela Szymanowska, 2017-2018 Senior Staff Writer photos courtesy of The Daily Beacon
With a chorus that spans across the nation, good ole “Rocky Top” connects those near and far to their home sweet homes in Knoxville. Whether sitting in Neyland Stadium surrounded by hundreds of fans in a sea of orange or sitting alone listening to the radio, when the first notes of “Rocky Top” hum into existence, everyone — students, faculty, alumni and fans — joins in to sing what has become a UT staple. “I think that we have almost defined our university around the song, around parts of it. You know, you can see it in our marketing materials; you can see the way that we sing at the football games,” SGA President and College Scholars senior Morgan Hartgrove said. “We’ve integrated this song into our campus
14
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
culture.” The song’s lyrics are an integral part of campus life, from merchandise to school spirit. The song’s iconic lyrics have taken ahold of the UT community, becoming one of the university’s most celebrated traditions. “So, let’s say for example, if they say, ‘Who has the best spirit?’ or ‘Someone show me your spirit for Rocky Top,’ I assure you somebody — if not
all the people, actually — will sing that song at the top of their lungs,” SGA Vice President and senior in nursing Michael Curtis Jr. said. “But most people know the chorus, and I think that the first few lyrics sum up the reason why it means so much to folks: ‘Rocky Top, you’ll always be home sweet home to me.’ We love this place for what it is worth.” While the lyrics became associated with UT in the early 1970s, the song’s humble beginnings arose a few years earlier. Its history began in August 1967, when country music songwriters Felice and Boudleaux Bryant checked into room 388 at the Gatlinburg Inn to write an album of slow-tempo country songs. Tired of writing depressing songs, Felice wanted to write something fast paced, and in
the span of 10 minutes, the two wrote “Rocky Top.” Gatlinburg Inn preserved the room where the Bryants wrote the song, including the Bryants’ original hand-written song sheets that are still pinned to the walls — just like they had left it. The song was then recorded by the Osborne Brothers and released later that year. But it wasn’t until a few years later with country music singer Lynn Anderson that the bluegrass song would peak at No. 17 on U.S. country charts. Now, “Rocky Top” is celebrating its 50th anniversary and its 45 years as the university’s unofficial fight song. The UT Department of Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management collaborated with the sons of Felice and Boudleaux Bryant, Del and Dane Bryant, to create new merchandise that celebrates the song’s 50th anniversary. A portion of the royalties goes to fund the department and the marching band, according to department head of retail, hospitality and tourism management Ann Fairhurst.
drum major for the Pride and junior in flute performance, said. “He introduced it to the band ... and without him and without the band that he made, the song would not have the same impact it has today, so that’s a big part of it.”
“We are very fortunate that the Bryant family has allowed our students to take the song — use all the lyrics and the “Rocky Top” song — and create products around it,” Fairhurst said. As a part of the project, students in the department were able to help in the creation of these products, and the students even aided in the design of the 50th anniversary logo and symbol.
The band performs the song approximately 400 to 500 times per game. Director of Bands Donald Ryder said that there is a band member who keeps track of the times “Rocky Top”is played during each game.
“And it gives the students experiential learning opportunity because they are designing and creating products around the “Rocky Top” song that’s sold in Tennessee,” Fairhurst said. While the song has been around for five decades, it wasn’t until 1972 that the Pride of the Southland Band first performed the song at Neyland Stadium for a game against the Alabama Crimson Tide. Soon after, it was adopted by UT.
“Rocky Top” was a part of a medley of country songs for the halftime show that was arranged by Barry McDonald, UT alumnus and an acclaimed Nashville-based arranger, and directed by former band director W. J. Julian.
After witnessing an overwhelming response from the fans, Julian continued to play the song each game afterward. “The band has had a huge part in making it what it is, and that is a big thanks to Dr. Julian,” Rebecca Percy,
“It’s unique because the band actually plays it so many times that there’s an unofficial count, but it’s really the official count. It’s actually turned into a tradition that there’s a member of the trombone section that actually has a clicker, and every time that they play it, they keep track,” Ryder said.
See ROCKY TOP on Page 18
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
15
Puzzle 1
Puzzle 2
for answers, see page 44
16
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Puzzle 3
Puzzle 4
for answers, see page 44
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
17
Rocky Top continued from Page 15 Ryder said that the number of times the band performs the song can be crucial for morale and motivation on game days. “Many times, we play it more times than others, depending on our wins and our losses and what we need to do to motivate the crowd,” Ryder said. Whether to energize the crowd, motivate the team or bring everyone back into the game, the band has taken “Rocky Top” and made it an essential part of game days. It was named the number one fight song by USA Today in 2015, despite it not being UT’s official fight song. For many, the song can bring a different meaning. SGA Student Services Director and senior in animal science Hunter Jones said it reminded him of football Saturdays in Neyland Stadium. “Just the first thing that I can think of
18
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
is sitting in Neyland Stadium and singing it with 102,000 other people, all in unison together, and just the atmosphere that that has and the power that has,” Jones said. “That’s just the first thing that comes to mind, is the Pride of the Southland Band playing it and everyone singing together in unison.” Freshman in pre-law Emma Thompson said that the song reminds her of other UT traditions, like Smokey and Tennessee Orange, but that it also symbolizes what Tennessee is. “For me, it kind of encapsulates what Tennessee’s about because we’re kind of Southern; we’ve got Southern roots, but we’re pretty progressive,” Thompson said. “It’s kind of like one of those songs that can unite all different backgrounds and everyone, because everyone kind of has that Tennessee pride.” And camaraderie seems to be a common theme when it comes to “Rocky
Top.” Professor of economics Kenneth Baker said that one of the reasons the song is so unifying is because it speaks about being able to go back to simpler times. “The song itself is about ... lamenting how complicated things are, wishing they could go back to simpler times. But I think the main thing ... what it seems to me is that it’s kind of something that brings everybody together,” Baker said. “It doesn’t matter your income level; it doesn’t matter your race or your gender; it doesn’t matter your politics. There’s something that a 100,000 people (of) all kind of different backgrounds — one thing they all love together is the song. It brings together every single fan.” Fairhurst also mentioned how the song’s message of a simpler life might remind some people of the simpler days of college, when the only responsibility was getting to class.
For Del Bryant, the song reminded him of his parents and how proud he is of their legacy. While he is proud of all of his parents’ songs, he said he felt especially connected to “Rocky Top” and the acceptance it has received from fans since it speaks to his parents’ legacy as songwriters. Bryant was also proud of how far the song has come, from its humble beginnings in room 388 of the Gatlinburg Inn to its place as UT’s unofficial fight song, which includes its own traditions and its own story through the fans. “When the crowd, the audience, the public takes a song and in their own way adds to it and truly contributes, it really becomes their song and this song has truly — with the ‘whoo’ and the motion — has truly become the fans’ song,” Bryant said. “I think it’s a very, very, very unique story, a wonderful story and an exceptional story of a song gone good.”
UT MEN’S RUGBY: based in tradition, still going strong By Jessica Landefield, Contributor
In 1970, students Gary Gilino, Ric Mellon and Jim Pyles had an idea: Create the first rugby team at the University of Tennessee.
Today, the traditions that were started almost 50 years ago are still going strong. The Tennessee men’s rugby team continues to work hard every season to represent Tennessee well. While not technically considered a varsity sport, the team has an SEC schedule like other athletic programs on campus and plays against schools such as South Carolina, Kentucky and Alabama. Rugby is one of the oldest sports on campus and provides students an opportunity to experience a game which many have not played before. This past season, the team was predominantly
young and made up of many freshman players, some of whom were brand new to the sport yet helped lead the team. “If students want to get involved, they should just come out and try it,” Tennessee rugby president Tommy Lane said. “We’re building on the success that some of our young players had this past season,” head coach Martin Bradley said. “We’re doing well in our spring training season to help the young men become more complete players for next fall. We’ve had several freshman players that really stepped up and played well.
season and plans to continue his leadership responsibilities during his next two years at Tennessee. Although he is only a sophomore, he is looking forward to stepping into a leadership position and leading the young team to more victories this fall. “I have to go back and look at how I was encouraged by the older guys when I was younger,” Lane said. “I always followed them when they led by example, so that’s why I try to be the best person and the best player I can be — so I can hopefully inspire others by example.”
“The task now is to see how far we can get these players.”
Rugby is a well-known sport by some Knoxvillians. Because of the Knoxville Rugby Football Club, many students have an idea of what the sport entails, and some even played it during high school.
Lane was elected as president this past
However, students not originally from
the Knoxville area may not know much about the sport. The Tennessee rugby team encourages students to learn more by following the team on social media and by attending games during its fall season, which is when especially important SEC rivalry games occur. “When we play another SEC school, it’s on,” Bradley said. “When we play Alabama, we really get after it. South Carolina is probably our longest rival, and that game is probably more bitter than any others.” While rugby may be considered a lesser-known sport, that doesn’t make it any less competitive or serious for the players on the field. “We’re not a social sport, and we’re not a recreational sport, so it takes that person who is really interested in competing in a contact sport to want to come out,” Bradley said. The Tennessee men’s rugby team will play its first match of the 2018 season on Sept. 1 against West Virginia, with its home opener slated for Sept. 8 against ETSU.
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
19
ALUMNI: looking back on their years at UT Miya McClain, On Rocky Top Writer
“Becoming alumni begins before you graduate. The Senior impact donation, is your first donation as an alumnus. There are certain moments and experiences that you will look back on from your college years that you know you will remember forever, moments that will make you into who you will be in the future.” Victoria Griffin Graduated in 2017, BS in Sociology “I was not really involved on campus because I was only at UT for two years. But, the overall experience of going to a large school was important because it taught me be to be even more independent than I already was. I also think that getting out and meeting new friends, going to hear different guest speakers, and just exploring was important for my growth because these things opened my eyes to a lot that I didn’t know about. To live in the moment and enjoy the process. It may seem slow, but it really flies by. Also, try not to procrastinate. I wish I would have known how many options I truly had educationally before coming to a large school with so much to offer. After graduation, I ended up being promoted at the job I was working throughout college. But this is only the beginning of my journey to become who and where I want to be. In the future, I would like to own my own businesses and live in Cali. Once a Vol always a Vol and I will always bleed orange.” Taylor Bauldwin Graduated in 2016, BS in Food Science and Technology. “UT has so many different cultures woven together and reminds me of family. Being involved on campus and in multiple organizations really grew a love for the University. It transformed my education from being a formal process to something more personal and organic. I joined ME4UT my first semester of my Junior year and it was one of the best things I could have ever done. ME4UT is the minority recruitment branch of the UT ambassadors program. It was great to have been put in the same position 20
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
to show other minorities all the things UT has to offer and to be able to leave a positive image of the university on the next wave of applicants just as I did in high school. As well as increase campus diversity. When I am asked about the culture at UT my mind goes to the black culture at UT since that shaped my career. The cookouts at the BCC, nights in the fort, football games, and Basketball in the TRECS. After graduation, I ended up north where I took a management job with a company out of Ohio currently and am excited to be working in my industry. I’m very happy getting experience where I am currently. In the future, I will probably look to move back down south to be closer to family while continuing to climb the ladder.” Logan Kesel Graduated 2017, BS in Political Science and Global Studies “Although UT is too focused on football, it is its focus on football that brings us all together. I was very social and having fun, I was having the time of my life and I was the happiest I’ve ever been then. I do wish I would’ve taken things slower and less seriously. Because I graduated in 3 years with two degrees, I feel like if I would’ve slowed down I would’ve enjoyed college more. I really pushed myself and put a lot of stress on myself. My family expectations fell less into account. I joined the National Society of Leadership Success and College of Republicans. I lightly joined the College of Republicans and then realized that it was very aggressive and was specifically focused on the dislikes of liberals. I interned at the State Legislature and it gave me insight into where my degree could take me and how to use my degree in the future. After I graduated, I moved to Ohio and started at, an environmental justice organization and nonprofit called Ohio Citizen Action. I then moved to Virginia Beach. In the future I would want to be working in a lobbying firm. I love UT. I love being a part of it. I’m very proud to say to I graduated from UT.” Julian Wright Graduated 2016, BS in Communications
COLLEGIATE STRESS: how to cope with the pressure Chelsea Babin, On Rocky Top Writer
It’s college, there will be stress.
How to cope with that stress is important. UT’s Center for Health Education & Wellness (CHEW) is dedicated to helping students with all of their health needs. CHEW’s website houses various resources for both students and parents. One of their resources is about stress management. “Stress is a natural part of life. There is no doubt that many college students report feeling stressed. We may know we have stress when we experience it, but what is it exactly?” according to CHEW’s website. The Stress and Wellness Clinic is located in the Student Counseling Center and helps students who suffer from too much stress. Billie Amatus-Salaam is the Wellness Coordinator/General Health & Wellness, MPH. She talks about stress on campus share different techniques that CHEW recommends to students when dealing with stress.
“Coping with stress starts with figuring out how you currently deal with stress and assessing whether or not your current coping methods are beneficial to you,” Amatus-Salaam said. “If they aren’t, consider changing how you manage stress and trying new things.” Some of the techniques she listed are: Relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or meditation, connecting and finding social support amongst family, friends, partners, allow yourself to take breaks and get seven to nine hours of sleep each night, plan ahead and manage time so that obligations and assignments don’t pile up and recognize when you might need to ask for help (for example, is being “stressed out” turning into more serious mental health issues). Since stress is inevitable on a college campus, CHEW conducts a survey every year to learn more about the community on campus so they can better help those who need it.
“According to our (the Center for Health Education & Wellness) 2017 Annual Health and Wellness Survey, 55% of students reported their level of stress they experienced within the last 30 days as “overwhelmed,”” Amatus-Salaam said. The top three most frequent stressors reported by students were academic, financial strain, and relationships.” CHEW offers a ‘Survival Guide to Stress’ booklet that can be used a tool for students and faculty members when dealing with stress. It can be accessed online through the wellness center’s website. “There is also 974-HELP––a 24hr helpline anyone can call if they are concerned about a fellow Vol,” AmatusSalaam said. “Students can also call 974HELP for themselves. The full number for 974-HELP is 865-974-4357.”
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
21
UT LEADERSHIP: chancellor on Thursday, May 3. Davis’s tenure at the university stems across 44 years with the most recent being his appointment as dean of the Tickle College of Engineering in 2009.
asked by the president of the university to serve in this capacity during this period of what will be an interim situation where we’re really looking for a new chancellor,” Davis said.
“It’s a very unpleasant decision,” DiPietro said. “I...felt that because I was the person who selected her and recommended her, and I was very excited to have a woman in this role, that it was very important for me not to allow somebody else to have to deal with the issues that I thought were so difficult and so challenging and they were unlikely to be resolved.”
“I approached Wayne last week about his opportunity to help us, if he was so inclined,” DiPietro said. “Because not long ago...he said to me one day ‘if there’s any way I can ever help the institution, I’d love it and I’d be willing to help you out.’” Davis, who was set to retire this year, extended his retirement and has committed to serve as interim chancellor for the next year as the university searches for a new chancellor.
Born in Orange County, North Carolina and graduate of Orange County High School, Davis said his life started with orange. After learning his graduate stipend was no longer available at Clemson University at the end of June 1971, Davis reached out to three schools he considered transferring to, one being UT. Davis met with faculty on the Saturday of the July 4 weekend of 1971 and joined the university two weeks later.
DiPietro announced Davis as interim
“I am really humbled and honored to be
DiPietro, Davis address recent UT leadership changes By Caroline Jordan, Copy Editor & Kylie Hubbard, 2018-19 Editor-in-Chief
UT President Joe DiPietro and Interim Chancellor Wayne Davis discussed ways to move forward with the recent changes in UT leadership Monday afternoon. On Wednesday, May 2, DiPietro announced the dismissal of the university’s eighth and first female chancellor Beverly Davenport. Davenport was appointed in December of 2016 and sworn into office in February of 2017. DiPietro cited performance issues and Davenport’s inability to fix the issues as cause for her
22
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
dismissal.
See LEADERSHIP on Page 24
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
23
Leadership continued from Page 22
“Tennessee, UTK, said ‘we’ll take you’,” DiPietro said. “So Wayne ended up here as a graduate student, finished his PhD work, and climbed right through the faculty ranks. (He) is a very talented administrator and the (Tickle) college has grown incredibly on his watch.” Davis has served various roles on campus including serving the UT Graduate School as assistant dean from 1985 to 1988 and associate dean from 1988 to 1991. “I’ve had a long, really exciting (and) wonderful career here at the University. I was truly going to retire and I was really looking forward to it but I have to admit that my blood truly runs orange and when I was asked to do this I thought you know I think I can help the university through this process,” Davis said. “I am really excited about the fact that we will be able to move toward conducting a search this coming year for
24
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
a new chancellor. I am excited for the future.” DiPietro addressed his own future and dismissed rumors of his retirement that he said have littered the media recently.
if you asked the students in the college of engineering they would say, ‘well he’s not with us every single day, but his heart is there.’” DiPietro said Davis is passionate about the university and has the attributes to fill the interim position.
“The reality is I feel it’s prudent to not make any decisions about my date until this new board “The reality is, is convened (in Wayne loves this UT President Joe DiPietro addresses the media regarding Beverly Davenport’s dismissal. university, he’s July),” DiPietro File photo / The Daily Beacon said. “But it has willing to step to be one of the up to serve it,” Association president Ovi Kabir as he first issues we deal with, this transiDiPietro said. “I really appreciate his adjusts to his new role. tion of leadership, not only my position willingness to do that in a time where eventually, but also Wayne’s.” we really need his competent leadership, “I believe in listening and I also believe Davis said he will begin to meet with his outstanding vision, his ability to the Chancellor’s Cabinet, critical people, in supporting students. I’m extremely work with people to meet the goals and student-oriented,” Davis said. “I think students and new Student Government the mission of the university.”
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
25
26
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Manage your account.
Anytime. Anywhere.
•Send friends money (even if they don’t have a UTFCU account!) •Have mom and dad send YOU money! •Deposit checks with Mobile Deposit •Pay rent through Bill Pay •Create custom account alerts •Ask questions about your account through secure messaging •And so much more!
Other Perks: •Main branch located right off Cumberland Ave near campus. •Full service branch coming soon to the new Student Union! 2100 White Ave •Free use of nearly 30,000 ATMs nationwide! Knoxville, TN 37916 •Being not-for-profit allows us to keep fees to a minimum. (865) 971-1971 •At UTFCU, you’re more than a member; you’re an owner! www.UTFCU.org Federally insured by the NCUA. On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
27
URBANIZED DINING: the central filling station Miya McClain, On Rocky Top Writer Miya McClain, photography
Did you know the idea of selling food
out of a moving vehicle started more than 100 years ago? The Food Truck business has been increasing as the years go on as more people are motivated to owning their own small business on the go. They have always been an inexpensive way of trying a variety of gourmet food and drinks and are becoming a force in the restaurant industry. Knoxville has over 40 mobile restaurants and continues to grow. Knoxville’s first full-service food truck park takes place at the Central Filing Station in the Old City and opened in February and is accompanied by the Blue Slip Winery. The owners wanted to create a urban dog-friendly neighborhood eatery and hangout for civilians. The park keeps the customers interested and coming back due to its locality and variety in food types. The station schedules a different set of trucks during lunch and dinner, and these change every day. While some trucks are regulars and are scheduled on set days throughout the week, others are scheduled where their time and work fits. One of these frequent trucks is Duncan Trout’s Captain Muchacho’s, a wild spin on Mexican style tacos that will intrigue your palette. This red truck has a large window, so customers can see what goes on inside their kitchen and two cool guys eager to give customers a great 28
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
experience. They change their menu up frequently and keep customers coming back for their new ideas of unusual but great-tasting tacos every day. While some may recommend a more upfront flavor like a Spicy Thai Peanut Chicken Taco, I chose the lighter, subtler route for the Chicken taco with Pineapple Salsa. The subtle flavor of this taco definitely makes you feel like you’re eating tacos during the spring at a picnic. The pineapple taste is prominent and keeps your palette satisfied. Captain Muchacho’s use their energy and customer interactions to stand out from other trucks. Trout started his business with his excess scholarship money from college and his experience in the restaurant industry. It has been running for two years straight and says some days are better than others. “It’s hard to find lunch spots and most of the time when we do business around town, businesses invite us out to. There aren’t many open lots but it’s always good when the weather is nice because there’s a lot of people and that’s always profitable.” The owners of the park try not to schedule more than one truck of the same food type to make it a less competitive environment. “In the restaurant industry everyone is
pretty cutthroat. But with food trucks everybody is really chill and relaxed and want to help you out,” Trout said. Another rather frequent Food truck is Burrito. owned by Winter Hose, a California native who started his truck at the beginning of the year and wanted to put a more organic twist on the Mexican style burrito. The Californian influence stands out in a city where southern tastes dominates all. Burrito. uses locally sourced produce
and made from scratch ingredients that make for big flavor wrapped in a large tortilla. Hose and his staff enjoy the pleasant food truck community and continues to be inspired by their mission: to deliver the streets of San Francisco to the streets of Knoxville. They also take pride in always providing vegan options for customers.
Weekdays during lunch time and on the weekends at night are when the park gets the most traffic. The park sometimes puts together a showdown with barbecue trucks and there is a word around town that there will be a taco showdown night with all
the taco trucks in Knoxville, but a date is TBA. If you’re looking for a different eating experience with your friends or family, the Central Filing Station is it. Feel free to bring your dogs out!
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
29
865 NIGHT MARKET: showcasing cultures on campus John Orona, Staff Writer & Cat Trieu, 2018-2019 Campus Editor photos courtesy of The Daily Beacon
Culture Week concluded with the second annual 865 Night Market Friday evening. Hosted by the Asian American Association (AAA), the Asian Studies Program and Campus Events Board (CEB), the market is a celebration of food, dance, arts and culture from over a dozen campus organizations. “Essentially, the Asian night market is an event where student organizations can come out and showcase their culture, food and items,” Charles Briones, junior in political science, said. “It’s a nice event where student organizations can come together and show what they have. That is the essence of what a night market is.” Rainy weather forced the typically open-air market into the Arts and Architecture atrium, but the function still drew in over 400 participants.
30
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
“We were really worried about the getting rained out and ruining everything,” sophomore studying nursing and secretary of AAA Juvi Mallari said. “But I think it’s even better inside.” Mallari performed traditional Filipino dances along with her fellow Filipino American Association (FAA) members. “ In the Philippines, there’s a lot of different regions with different cultures,” Mallari said. “The first (dance) was a couples dance for peasants. The second one was a more mountain people, indigenous dance. The third one was one of Spanish culture, because the Philippines is heavily influenced by the Spanish. The last one was more modern, where we all
Lailah Blackwell / The Daily Beacon
danced together.” FAA was just one of the several performing groups throughout the night, including hip-hop duo StudyBreak Cypher and K-pop dance group Kascade. The event also showcased art from the Women’s Coordinating Council studio arts senior George Habeib.
See Market on Page 32
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
31
Market continued from Page 30 The assorted offering to the public was just what AAA president Mori Fukui, junior in human resource management, was hoping for when she organized the event, even though night markets are traditionally focused on Asian cultures. “The reason we wanted to put on the event is to promote awareness of multicultural student organizations here and also promote diversity education,” Fukui said. “Our ultimate goal is that everyone feels really included, that people see that countries of Asian origin, or anywhere else, actually are being represented. I think it’s a really amazing thing to have because we really do need more diversity and inclusion here on campus.” Briones agreed and said he believed that the inclusion of cultures from all over the world rather than just Asia represented UT’s commitment to diversity. “It’s showing how these students … truly care about culture, diversity and just having a good time,” Briones said. “It just goes to show that we at the University of Tennessee are trying to meet that goal
32
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
of diversity and trying to show that we here love culture.” Authentic cuisine is a pillar of night markets, and most clubs with booths at the event offered traditional foods from their culture. “Latino American Student Organization had really good and cheap churros that were amazing,” Natalie Guffey, junior in social work, said. “I think German Club had bratwurst. That was interesting. FAA sold lumpia and performed earlier, and it was so fun and so excitArt from the Women’s Coordinating Council studio arts senior George Habeib ing.” John Orona / The Daily Beacon As vice president for the Art and Culture Committee of CEB, Guffey helped to organize the night market and said events like this contribute to a healthy campus atmosphere in light of recent divisive events at UT. “I think it brings people together since it’s obviously a positive environment,” Guffey said. “If you can talk to someone from a different background, I think you should always be taking those kind of opportunities.”
With the night market’s success in the past two years, rain or shine, AAA hopes to continue this tradition into the future. “We want this to be an annual thing, like the main thing for UT to have because there’s not a whole lot of events that showcase cultures and diversity,” Mallari said. “When people come to these kinds of events they see that there’s a space for them, a community for them.”
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
33
QUARTERBACK U: Chryst brings pro-style potential for Vols’ new offense Will Backus, 2018-2019 Asst. Sports Editor
Arguably the biggest storyline this spring for Tennessee has been who will take the helm at quarterback this upcoming season in Tyson Helton’s new offensive scheme.
“I know one thing: You can’t win in this league without a quarterback,” Pruitt said in March. “I’ve been as brutally honest as I can; I don’t know what we have at any position.”
The two lead candidates are the only scholarship quarterbacks Tennessee currently has on its roster: Jarrett Guarantano and Will McBride. Guarantano may be seen as the favorite to land the job between the two, and his impressive performance of 226 yards and two touchdowns in the Orange and White Game may have furthered his cause.
Despite the talent of both Guarantano and McBride, they may not be the best fits for the kind of offense Helton will integrate at Tennessee. At the moment, Helton appears to be bringing a pro-style offense in which the Vols could potentially air the ball out more and take more snaps under center.
But head coach Jeremy Pruitt has not tipped his hand since he arrived on campus.
34
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Guarantano and McBride, though they have talented arms, are not accustomed to this style of play at quarterback. Both were dual-threat quarterbacks coming out of high school, and both have played in Tennessee’s spread offense the past
Jarrett Guarantano, #2, during the game against Indiana State on September 9, 2017. File Photo / The Daily Beacon
couple of years, with more snaps coming from the shotgun. The systems are completely different, and it’s hard to teach old dogs new tricks. However, Tennessee has one more quar-
terback coming this summer that could quickly insert himself into the conversation for starting quarterback: Stanford graduate transfer Keller Chryst. Chryst spent his formative years at Palo
See Chryst on Page 36
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
35
Chryst continued from Page 34 Alto High School in Palo Alto, California, where he was ranked as the No. 3 overall pro-style quarterback in the 2014 recruiting class, according to the 247Sports Composite. He committed and signed on to play for Stanford. The Chryst family is one steeped in athletic tradition. Geep Chryst, Keller’s father, is currently the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos. Paul Chryst, his uncle, is the current head coach for the Wisconsin Badgers. His mother played collegiate volleyball, and his uncle, Rick, is a former commissioner for the Mid-American Conference.
uninspiring week-three performance in which he threw for just 72 yards and two interceptions against San Diego State. The next week, he exited Stanford’s game against UCLA with another apparent injury. The Cardinal then turned to freshman quarterback KJ Costello, who led Stanford to a victory on the back of 123 yards and two touchdowns. Chryst never saw the field again as Stanford’s starting quarterback. In January, he announced he would transfer from Stanford as a graduate and in March announced his next destination would be Tennessee. Despite the lackluster finish to his Stanford career, Chryst could be a very important piece at Tennessee. He’s spent almost his entire career playing in a pro-style system, similar to what Helton is expected to bring to Tennessee.
Chryst played in 23 total games at Stanford, posting an 11-2 record when starting for the Cardinals. In his career, he completed 55.2 percent of his passes for 1,901 yards and 19 touchdowns to just six Coach Pruitt giving a press conference intercepFile Photo / The Daily Beacon tions. In the 2016 Sun Bowl against North Carolina, Chryst exited in the second quarter with a knee injury, later diagnosed as an ACL tear. Though he would get healthy in time to start the 2017 season at quarterback for Stanford, it was a tough road back. “It’s mainly all mental,” Chryst told CBS Sports on his recovery. “Maybe 99 percent mental. Doing the right thing every day, getting treatment every day, asking for help every day.” Chryst’s 2017 season was not one that will likely be a fond memory. He had an 36
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
Chryst may be a perfect marriage to Helton’s system due to his experience. Though he’s coming to Tennessee late, his past may give him an advantage over both Guarantano and McBride. Pruitt has been mum on who exactly has the edge in the starting quarterback race, but it isn’t unreasonable to expect Chryst to be a major factor early. “There’s probably other guys that would have liked to have come here,” Pruitt said of Chryst in March. “But I would not tell them they’d be the starting quarterback. Keller was excited about just the chance to compete. “That’s all he wanted.”
HARD WORK, POSITION BATTLES: what’s in store for the Lady Vol’s future By Tyler Wombles, 2018-2019 Managing Editor
Evina Westbrook’s final sentiment regarding Tennessee’s second-round loss to Oregon State in the NCAA Tournament was bittersweet. “Excited for next season, but this one hurts,” Westbrook said. After notching a 15-game winning streak to begin the season, the Lady Vols ended the year with a 10-8 mark, including a second-round ouster in the SEC Tournament as well. The frustration with the season’s ultimate end early in the NCAA Tournament was evident among head coach Holly Warlick and multiple players following the contest. That disappointment hasn’t staved off the drive for improvement by members of the program, though. Westbrook’s mentality following the loss to Oregon State was focused on the knowledge she could impart to the team’s upcoming freshman class as a rising sophomore. “I think it taught us a lot, especially as underclassmen,” Westbrook said. “Especially what to expect, and then for the younger group coming in, just what we can tell them, and (they can) really just feed off of us. But definitely, I think this experience is going to make us not want to be in a place like this again.” Westbrook was one of two freshmen who factored into the starting lineup for the Lady Vols last season, as she began every game on the floor at point guard for Tennessee. Her experience in running her team’s offense as a freshman could be critical for her down the stretch of next season, but she isn’t resting on her laurels in that regard. “I basically need to work on everything,” Westbrook said. “My shot, my dribbling, everything like that to prepare more for next year. Just being more aggressive and to really get my team where I know we can be, which is much farther than (the second round) … I think (starting at point guard) has given me an advantage really to just know the game, know the system.”
The Lady Vols’ group of highly-touted first-year players made a notable impact on the court last season, with guards Anastasia Hayes and center Kasiyahna Kushituah often helping spark Tennessee off the bench and forward Rennia Davis acting as one of the team’s most consistent starters. The development of the group will likely be a strong factor in the Lady Vols’ success on the floor next year as Warlick will have to make up for minutes lost with the graduation of star forward Jaime Nared. Another key storyline for next season will be Tennessee’s work in replacing standout center Mercedes Russell. Russell started every game for the Lady Vols her junior and senior seasons, finishing first on the roster in rebounding both years and second in pointsper-game each season as well. She was named 2017-2018 All-SEC First Team and an Honorable Mention All-American by the Associated Press and WBCA the prior year. Three of Tennessee’s returning post players, as well as a member of the incoming freshman class, could factor into the battle to replace Russell as the team’s starting center, including rising redshirt senior Cheridene Green. Green finished last season with 122 total rebounds and 4.1 points per game, playing key minutes for the Lady Vols off the bench. She has been mainly considered a forward thus far in her career with Tennessee but could possibly make the transition to full-time center for Warlick’s squad. “I think the main thing for me is not just getting the role because she’s leaving, but the fact of me earning it and wanting it and me working hard to deserve that role,” Green said. “Because that’s a really big leadership role, and I have to be a very effective and impactful player. So I think I’m definitely going to prepare myself for it.” On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
37
ON THE REBOUND: Barnes sets his sights on next season By Cory Sanning, Staff Writer
Like most college coaches,
Tennessee basketball head coach Rick Barnes has suffered his fair share of postseason disappointments. Despite experiencing their most successful season in nearly a decade, the Vols’ season ended in heartbreaking fashion as Loyola-Chicago’s Clayton Custer buried a mid-range jumper. With that loss now behind him, Barnes has already begun his preparation for next season. “You’re really starting over again,” Barnes said. “We open everything back up to where there’s no give, and guys have to earn what they’re going to get.” File Photo / The Daily Beacon
38
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
In his third season as coach of the Vols, Barnes and his staff guided the program to heights it had not reached since Bruce Pearl strolled the sidelines of ThompsonBoling Arena. Garnering a plethora of conference recognition that included Coach of the Year, Player of the Year, Sixth Man and All-SEC honors, Tennessee now heads into the offseason with a core nearly identical to last year’s. Aside from the departure of graduatetransfer James Daniel III, the Vols are looking at a similar roster as summer rapidly approaches.
See Barnes on Page 40
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
39
Barnes continued from Page 38 “He played a big role. He had to totally adjust his game,” Barnes said. “We’ll miss what he certainly gave us. He helped us win some basketball games.” One word Barnes constantly brought up as he spoke to reporters for a final time was his desire for his players to develop more consistency heading into next season. “I think individual guys have to be more consistent,” Barnes said. “We’re going to get back to a lot of fundamental work.” Averaging 73.8 points per game this season, the Vols ranked sixth in the SEC in scoring and field goal percentage. This was despite their taking home a share of the regular season conference title and making their first SEC championship game appearance since 2008. “Conditioning is a big part for a number of these guys,” Barnes said. “They all have different needs to be met, and we’ll deal with them.”
40
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
The men’s basketball team celebrates the 2018 Regular Season SEC Championship
nessee’s 2017 recruiting class.
focus on the defensive side of the ball despite playing through injuries.
“He’s been in there every day,” Barnes said. “They’re excited about getting back in (the gym). It was all new for them this year, and now they know how good it can be and how quickly it can end.”
Barnes feels there are still areas on the floor in which Williams can strengthen his game, and he was stern about that Monday.
File Photo / The Daily Beacon
Since departing from Dallas and returning to Knoxville, several players have immediately returned to the practice court at Pratt Pavilion on a regular basis despite the NCAA’s seven-day rule concerning the coaching staff following the conclusion of any team’s season. Of those players, freshman Yves Pons was the first mentioned by Barnes. A native of Fuveau, France, he logged 124 total minutes and was among the highest-rated incoming players in Ten-
A large portion of the roster, including Bone, Turner, Jordan Bowden and Grant Williams, will be entering junior season in October. “I think that’s where you want to see the jump,” Barnes said. “You do expect a jump between your freshman and sophomore years, but the real jump gets down to one word, I think — passion.” Williams, who was the team’s leading scorer at 15.2 points per game last season, was the opposing coach’s primary
“He needs to get himself in high-level conditioning,” Barnes said. “It’ll allow him to guard the ball better on the perimeter, play longer and harder and rebound more consistently.” Overall, the Vols reached heights this season that many had not expected of them. Having not appeared in an NCAA Tournament in nearly four years, Tennessee was the No. 3 seed in the South Region – the highest since 2008. With that being said, Barnes and his staff are not satisfied and will have higher expectations for this upcoming season. “We won’t be picked 13th in the SEC next year,” Barnes said. “I think that it’s up to you as coaches to realize and help them realize there’s always a way to get better.”
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
41
42
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
On Rocky Top 2018 • The Daily Beacon
43
THE PRIDE CENTER: reviving programming By Paige Greene, 2018-2019 Copy Chief
Despite a tumultuous past few years, the Pride Center celebrated its eighth birthday this year.
The Pride Center was initially opened in February 2010 under the name OUTreach: LGTB & Ally Resource Center after nearly five years of assessing and planning. The need for such a center was first articulated in 2005, when professors Bharat Mehra and Donna Braquet surveyed LGBTQ individuals about the unique challenges they faced on UT’s campus. Among these were “social isolation, a lack of formalized institutional support, inadequate information support services and disconnected LGBT advocacy efforts,” the center’s website said. Since then, the Pride Center has provided programming, resources and events to help students overcome those barriers. “The Pride Center strives to provide programming that educates the campus community about LGBTQIA+ issues and empowers students to be their authentic selves,” Pride Center coordinator Bonnie Johnson said. “We also provide a physical community space for students to study and connect.” Among the center’s offerings are “three identity-specific discussion groups that provide a closed space for students to talk about issues related to their shared identity,” Johnson said. Since becoming the center’s coordinator in 2017, Johnson has been working to revamp SafeZone training, which teaches students and faculty the importance of allyship. The Pride Center also celebrates holidays such as National Coming Out Day, hosts seasonal parties and film screenings, keeps a library of LGBTQ literature and holds a Lavender Graduation ceremony and reception for new LGBTQ graduates each May.
Puzzle 1
44
The Daily Beacon • On Rocky Top 2018
For students like Cole Tipton, sophomore in sociology and women, gender and sexuality studies, the Pride Center is a pillar of support. “First of all, it literally is a space for queer students to come and exist. That, in and of itself, is just lacking in general. It’s difficult to navigate campus or the Knoxville community and still feel at home,” Tipton said. “And the second thing that I think it definitely is– it’s sort of an educational … nexus. We’re trying to do outreach about what it means to exist as a queer person and what those struggles look like.” Although the Pride Center works to alleviate students’ challenges, Tipton, who serves as a Pride Ambassador, said that there still remained an “undercurrent of uncertainty” among peers. “That sort of comes with being anyone on this campus who isn’t in the majority,” Tipton said. “It’s sort of a ‘what’s next?’ mentality. When’s the next rock going to come through the window? … Who’s going to attack us next? We just had a Nazi rally.” While the Pride Center considered staying open to provide a safe space for LGBTQ students during white nationalist Matthew Heimbach’s “National Socialism or Death” lecture on Feb. 17, it was ultimately closed for fear that it would be a target of violence. Tipton said that neo-Nazis aren’t the only threat to LGBTQ students at UT. In fact, antagonism by other UT students poses one of the biggest challenges. “I certainly don’t feel safe walking through the Fort in anything that’s not cis-presenting. I think that’s the bigger picture: changing the whole culture, not just in the classroom (and) on Ped Walkway,” Tipton said. “If people are throwing things on Cumberland, and if the Fort is a dangerous place, the culture is not changed. That’s us, the students, and that’s the rest of Knoxville, too.”
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS Puzzle 2
After the Tennessee legislature’s 2016 decision to defund the Office for Diversity and Inclusion, the Pride Center was also defunded by this measure, putting it in danger of closing. This year, alumnus Chad Goldman is spearheading a campaign to raise a private endowment of $3 million for the Pride Center. LGBTQ alumni have already contributed $300,000, but Tipton said that there still remains a larger question. “ Why can we not have public funding?” Tipton said. “Clearly, our state legislature is willing to bully marginalized students on this campus, and it’s a matter of why we are allowing that to pass. I’m excited that we’ll be funded … and that will solidify our presence here, but this doesn’t answer the question. Why are we not being included the same ways that other students are?” During the year after its defunding, the Pride Center was run entirely by Pride Ambassadors like Tipton and work-study students, Johnson said. “We have already started to revive our community-favorite events and are looking forward to creating innovative new programming,” Johnson said. Johnson has been working on collaborating with other departments on campus. Recently, the center cosponsored an LGBTQ job-hunting workshop with the Center for Career Development, and it will also host a lecture by former NFL player Wade Davis on supporting inclusivity in the sports world. “I am excited (to) educate students about our underrepresented communities on campus, respect the multiple identities people have and help transform our campus community into one that understands the importance of diversity and inclusion,” Johnson said.
Puzzle 3
Puzzle 4
The Daily Beacon The University of Tennessee 11 Communications Building Knoxville, TN 37996-0314