April 16, 2019 by College Heights Herald

FEATURES • PAGE B1

OPINION • PAGE A4

Former WKU coach celebrates birthday with annual swim

Editorial: WKU’s fight for liberal arts isn’t over

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

VOLUME 94, ISSUE 25

STEPPING UP

Former dean assumes acting provost position BY EMILY DELETTER HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

Cheryl Stevens had about five minutes to accept or decline the position to become acting provost at WKU. Stevens was in New Orleans for the weekend for her son’s baby shower when former Provost Terry Ballman resigned on April 5. Following a vote of no confidence passed by the University Senate. Friday morning, President Timothy Caboni called Stevens and asked if she would be able to take over the position. “Everything happened so fast,” Stevens said. “I was honored when he asked, grateful for the opportunity and excited, but, man, it’s a fire hose a lot of times when you move into a provost position.” In a statement to the Herald, Caboni said Stevens was an obvious choice to serve as acting provost. “As our longest serving academic dean, and as [a] member of the strategic planning steering committee, she will bring stability and continuity to the ongoing work in Academic Affairs, DELO and our five colleges,” Caboni said. Stevens will hold the acting provost position for at least the next two years. Unlike an interim position, she is not absolutely slated to be replaced permanently by someone after a national search, although it could be a possibility. “Traditionally, in a lot of people’s minds, acting means you’re in a position that belongs to someone else, but they can’t do it right now,” Stevens said. “That’s not what Caboni understood the title to be.” As acting provost, she will be the chief academic officer, responsible for the quality of WKU’s academic programs. She said one major difference between being dean of Ogden College and acting provost is transitioning her supporting role from only Ogden College, a position she held since January 2012, to supporting all five colleges. She said she has amazing support from

TYGER WILLIAMS • HERALD

Cheryl Stevens, former dean of Ogden College, was appointed to the position of acting provost following former Provost Terry Ballman’s resignation on April 5.

the faculty and staff on campus, including dozens of emails from people expressing interest in serving as her advisers on the provost’s council. Describing herself as a team player and team builder, Stevens said she works

best having people to talk to who can help move things forward. “I’ve found that if you choose people who come to you wanting to help, they seem to almost always do a better job,” Stevens said.

She took over at the end of the Comprehensive Academic Program Evaluation process, which began under Ballman. CAPE recommendations were approved by the Board of Regents Academic Affairs Committee during its Friday meeting. Through CAPE, the committee identified 209 programs to maintain as they currently are, 55 programs to transform, 15 programs to grow and 101 programs to suspend. The suspended programs include 11 undergraduate degrees, four graduate degrees and 86 other credentials such as minors and certificates. During the meeting, Stevens said she hopes the programs recommended to be grown and enhanced and transformed will be attractive to students. Faculty in programs that will be suspended will continue to teach out the classes over the next few years to ensure students currently enrolled in the suspended programs can complete their requirements. Stevens began her career in academia at Xavier University of Louisiana, where she began as a faculty member in the chemistry department. She eventually moved up to become a program director, then department chair of chemistry and eventually an associate dean for research. But Stevens said she wanted more and was immediately drawn to the then-open position for the dean of Ogden College of Science and Engineering at WKU. Upon visiting campus for her interview, she fell in love with the area and the much smaller community of Bowling Green as well as the differences between her small liberal arts college and WKU’s larger, regional public university. “I liked the mission of WKU, it really resonated for me,” Stevens said. “Here, it’s about access and an opportunity for students who may not be able to go somewhere else. You’re able to make a connection between the campus and university and the region around it.” SEE STEVENS • PAGE A3

Faculty responds to final CAPE recommendations BY REBEKAH ALVEY HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU

The Board of Regents Academic Affairs Committee approved recommendations to suspend 101 programs, transform 55, grow 15 and maintain 209 during a committee meeting on Friday, April 12. Through the Comprehensive Academic Program Evaluation, 380 academic programs were analyzed and went through a process of recommendations, starting on a departmental level and ending with the Board of Regents approval. Initially, CAPE recommendations were intended to go from the CAPE Committee to the provost. However,

the sudden resignation of former Provost Terry Ballman altered the plan. Of the suspended programs, Merrall Price, special assistant to the provost, said there are 615 students, approximately 3% of the student body, enrolled. During the committee meeting, she said any suspended program will be taught out, meaning students Kirk currently enrolled will Atkinson be able to complete their degrees, but no University Senate Chair new students will be accepted starting Aug. 26, 2019. Price said the goal is to take curricular action with programs recommend-

ed to be transformed in Spring 2020 and will hopefully be able to offer the newly altered programs by Fall 2020. During the CAPE process, tenured faculty positions will remain Mary a priority, according Bennett to the website. Teaching obligations may Director of change, but WKU does the WKU not foresee a reduction School of Nursing in workforce. “Many faculty members are qualified to teach in related areas and, if needed, may be asked to broaden their teaching contribution,” acting Provost Cheryl Stevens said in an email.

The largest program recommended for suspension is the Nursing RN to BSN program. Mary Bennett, director of the school of nursing, explained the program is online and is for people who already have an associate’s degree but are seeking a BSN. In the recommendations report, enrollment numbers for 2017 were listed as 105. However, Bennett said the most recent enrollment numbers are significantly lower. Bennett attributed this drop to a changing market. She explained that for-profit schools are offering online courses at a lower cost, which could be more appealing for students. When going through the CAPE department recommendations process, Bennet SEE CAPE • PAGE A3

Jeremy Chisenhall “My time at the Herald has taught me a great deal about how to work in a professional newsroom. As a reporter, I got a lot of experience with interviewing and reporting. I also learned how to do quality investigative reporting through public records. As an editor, I’ve learned a lot about about managing and supervising people. I’ve also learned how to manage content, edit stories and work on long-form projects. In addition to the skills I’ve learned, I’ve also made a lot of friends and connections that are certain to last me throughout my career.”

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NEWS A3

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

STEVENS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT Stevens was hired for the dean position and began during the Spring 2012 semester under former President Gary Ransdell. As of the Fall 2018 semester, she and Larry Snyder, dean of Potter College of Arts and Letters, were the only remaining deans from Ransdell’s administration. When she found herself in the position of acting provost, Stevens said it “made complete sense” to rehire Sny-

CAPE

CONTINUED FROM FRONT said it decided to focus on the needs of students taking courses in-person, which included suspending the RN to BSN program. Overall, Bennett said the CAPE recommendations approved by the Academic Affairs Committee were the same as the department-level recommendations. She said the suspended programs will allow the nursing school to move resources from less

der as dean of Potter College. Before she rehired Snyder, Potter College would have had an interim dean, and Ogden College would as well. Gordon Ford College of Business and the College of Health and Human Services have just hired new deans after two national searches. Corinne Murphy, dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, is still fairly new to WKU, having started her position in August. Susann DeVries, dean of University Libraries, began her position a little under two

years ago. “The dean team is very unsettled,” Stevens said. “It seemed to me that it was not a good situation. Larry [Snyder] brings a high ethical standard and a sense of stability. He is clearly well-loved on campus and was taken out of position when he had a lot of balls up in the air. Putting him back and allowing him to do that work with Potter College until he steps out in two years was a good thing for everyone.” Snyder has agreed to remain as

Potter College dean for the next two years, a decision Stevens said he made when he was rehired. “Snyder was happy, because he wasn’t ready to go out,” Stevens said. “Relieved, I think, and grateful. But he wants to do two years and then do something else.”

popular programs to larger, more successful programs. By reallocating resources, Bennett said it will not have to turn away students or cut enrollment because of a lack of faculty. University Senate Chair Kirk Atkinson said he had not received any direct feedback from faculty regarding the CAPE recommendations. Atkinson, who also served on the CAPE Committee, said he was both pleased and not pleased with the final results that were sent to the Board of

Regents. He said it was told Academic Affairs would have the final say, which may have influenced a few choices. However, Atkinson said he was also pleased to see the recommendations did not go beyond the committee. While CAPE officials have ensured students they will be able to graduate from their existing programs, there has not been a lot of clarity about the future of faculty in suspended programs. Atkinson said a suspended program does not mean courses

within the program will necessarily be cut. He said suspended programs could use the time to reevaluate and reinvent themselves to be more marketable and applicable to students. “The end is not necessarily the end,” Atkinson said.

Assistant News Editor Emily DeLetter can be reached at 270-745-6011 or emily.deletter304@topper.wku.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @emilydeletter.

News Editor Rebekah Alvey can be reached at 270-745-6011 and rebekah.alvey660@topper.wku.edu. Follow Rebekah Alvey on Twitter at @ bekah_alvey.

Diet-restricted students struggle to find options BY LAKIERRA DEBERRY HERALD.NEWS@WKU.EDU While there are over 20 dining options on campus, many students experience limitations because of dietary restrictions or diseases. Olivia Peebles, a senior at WKU, said she has struggled with pancreatitis and acute pancreatitis since February 2018. After her diagnosis, she said her diet had to drastically change. Now her

diet primarily consists of low-fat and healthy foods such as rice, chicken and unseasoned potatoes. Before she was diagnosed, Peebles said there were many things she liked on campus. However, after being hospitalized for pancreatitis and acute pancreatitis three or four times, she was forced to adjust her diet. Since then she said she has noticed a lack of healthy options for her on campus. While the lack of options is a difficulty, Peebles said her diagnosis was a

The Graduate School

Congratulates The Graduate Faculty members receiving 2019 Faculty Awards! Dr. Sophia Arjana

Philosophy & Religion, Research/Crea!ve Ac!vity Award

Dr. Melanie Au!n

Mathema!cs, Teaching Award

Dr. Stacy Bibelhauser

Accoun!ng, Teaching Award

Dr. Amy Brausch

Psychological Sciences, Public Service Award

Dr. Johnny Chan

Finance, Research/Crea!ve Ac!vity Award

Dr. Dana Cosby

Management, Public Service Award

Dr. David DiMeo

Modern Languages, Teaching Award

Dr. Holli Drummond

Sociology, Public Service Award

Dr. Lisa Duﬃn

Psychology, Research/Crea!ve Ac!vity Award

Dr. Stacy Edds-Ellis

Educa!onal Administra!on, Leadership, & Research, Part-!me Teaching Award

blessing in disguise. She explained she didn’t realize the things she used to eat were unhealthy. After cutting out gluten and dairy products, Peebles said she couldn’t eat at her typical favorite restaurants on campus. After her diagnosis, Peebles said she primarily eats at Burrito Bowl. Senior Anthony Husky was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease his freshman year of high school. Since coming to college, he has faced challenges related to his disease, even getting to the point where he was forced to take off last semester. “A few options have changed since I have attended college,” Husky said. “I try to stay away from greasy foods that upset my stomach, because it won’t digest as well.” Since returning this semester, he said his symptoms have not been as bad. There are still days where he is unable to make it to class, but he experiences more good days than bad. For people who have diseases that require healthy and specific diets, Husky said he believes there should be more options on campus. He said there are so many options for dining at WKU with a regular diet. However, he is usually limited to one. He worried about incoming students who may not have a car and cannot drive off campus for healthier options. “I think WKU should have more food options in general, because some people try to eat healthy and live a healthy lifestyle,” Husky said. “There are not many options for people that want to do that. I do believe Western should provide more of a different variety of foods.” Brandi Breden, a registered dietician at WKU, has worked at the university for five years. She said part of her job is working with a variety of students who experience health issues. Breden also works with admissions to see if students are coming in with any kind of medical problems and goes to Topper Orientation Program events to let incoming students know about the work she does on campus.

“They [TOP] do this for parents and students who are concerned about their children’s medical issues before coming to college,” Breden said. “Usually I’ll meet with a lot of students the summer before they get here. I’ll introduce them to the chef and have them know about the safe options on campus.” Breden created guides for vegan and gluten-free students eating on campus. Additionally, she has a guide for students with food allergies. “Usually I like to meet with a student to go over foods they like, because just because you have a food allergy does not mean you are not picky,” Breden said. When Breden meets with students, she said she writes down their medical concerns, food allergies and tries to come up with a plan for them to eat on campus. She also refers them to the simple selections in Fresh foods, which she believes is a safe area for students to eat. While she said there is low staffing in Fresh, she mentioned a “see a manager” sign if diners have questions. Breden said she wished this was advertised more. She said if students have concerns about a meal plan, they will often forward it to her so she may help them. Breden said there are limitations for students with Chron’s disease. She said she recommends students stick with deli food or get potatoes from Fresh. Breden also said she eats at Fresh every day and tries to be creative when she is there for students. On campus, Breden said she struggles with “getting the word out” about dieticians and letting students know she is there to help them and can even introduce them to chefs on campus. Breden said she encourages students with medical restrictions or who want to lose weight to visit the campus nutrition website, which lists meal swipe options.

News reporter Lakierra DeBerry can be reached at 270-745-6011 and lakierra. deberry262@topper.wku.edu. Follow her on Twitter at @Kierra_DeB.

Dr. Sanju Gupta

Physics & Astronomy, Research/Crea!ve Ac!vity Award

Dr. April Hardison

Communica!on Sciences & Disorders, Part-!me Teaching Award

Dr. Sarah Ochs

Psychology, Advisement Award

Dr. Jenni Redifer

P R E M I E R E FA C I A L A N D B O DY WA X I N G

Dr. Leigh Anne Roden-Carrier

50%

Psychology, Public Service Award Communica!on Sciences & Disorders, Teaching Award

Dr. Jan Hunt-Shepherd

Public Health, Advisement Award

Dr. Liz Sturgeon

Nursing, Public Service Award

Dr. Rachel Tinius

Kinesiology, Recrea!on & Sport, Research/Crea!ve Ac!vity Award

Dr. Cheryl Wolf

Counseling and Student Aﬀairs, Teaching Award

OFF

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR

CAPE cuts should come with bureaucracy cuts too

OPINION

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

EDITORIAL

SUBMITTED BY TOM HUNLEY HERALD.OPINION@WKU.EDU

Dear Editor: WKU just conducted a program review and recommended the suspension of 101 programs —11 undergraduate degrees, four graduate degrees and 86 other credentials such as minors and certificates. Fine, if needed, but shouldn’t we also conduct a review of administrators and ask ourselves if we really need (for example) an Assistant to the President for Special Initiatives (this appears to be a new post, as I can’t find it in the 20182019 budget) or a Vice President of Philanthropy and Alumni Affairs who is paid over $212,000 per year? Do we really need $750,000 budgeted for salary in the Vice President/Provost’s office, including three associate vice presidents each making six figure salaries? Maybe we do, but if our economic crisis mandates that we cut faculty lines and programs, it seems only fair to ask administration to take a similar hit. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the number of college administrators has increased at 10 times the rate of tenure-eligible faculty nationwide over the course of the last two decades. Here at WKU, the faculty listserv has been inundated with messages about administrative hires at a time when there’s a freeze on faculty hiring. I believe that if there needs to be a hiring freeze, it ought to be a freeze on administrative hires as well as on T/T faculty. If there have to be difficult cuts, the burden shouldn’t fall entirely on the faculty; we should now have a CAPE-like process that recommends cuts to the bureaucracy. Tom C. Hunley, Ph.D. Professor – English/Creative Writing

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FINDING BALANCE WKU’s fight for programs isn’t over yet

BY HERALD EDITORIAL BOARD HERALD.OPINION@WKU.EDU

Issue: A general sense of relief across the university came after Terry Ballman stepped down as provost, Larry Snyder was reinstated as dean of Potter College and student protests ended on campus. But, how much WKU values its students and faculty is still to be seen. Our stance: WKU will show which students and faculty it truly believes matters when final decisions on programs cuts are made, and this will have a lasting impact even as the whirlwind of administrative chaos from the past three weeks gradually leaves the spotlight. WKU is trying to put the disastrous turn of events that led to the resignation of Ballman in the past, but the battle over which programs the university commits to will continue with or without constant headlines surrounding it. WKU has started to gain back some trust by skipping former Provost Terry Ballman’s input in the Comprehensive Academic Program Evaluation process. Through CAPE, the university is making some necessary changes, like suspending 42 programs that currently have no student enrollment. The university is also making the small accommodation of letting students finish studying in programs that are being suspended, which is essential considering the amount of time and money students have already spent in their field. The alternative here would be

needlessly cruel. Even though the outcry from students and faculty helped resolve the situation created when Ballman forced Larry Snyder to resign as dean of Potter College, it’s good for WKU that the circus surrounding the event is leaving the public eye, since the fiasco it caused only makes the university look dysfunctional (which it was) and hinders the recruitment of potential new students to the university. However, liberal arts at WKU are still under attack with Potter College having the second-highest amount of programs suggested for suspension. Suspending programs is a slippery slope. What starts with pop culture and foreign language being removed could quickly turn into the absence of English or history the next time cuts need to be made. The onslaught against liberal arts programs aren’t limited to WKU or even universities in Kentucky. It’s a problem on a national scale and one that has even seen aggression from the Trump administration. The White House released a proposal in March that would terminate the National Endowment of the Humanities, a federal agency which earlier this month gave out grants that financed 233 different liberal arts projects that cost a total sum of $28.6 million, according to the New York Times. Some of these projects include digitally preserving 65,000 handwritten survey notes from World War II soldiers and creating an internet archive for the women’s suffrage movement. David W. Breneman, the former president of Kalamazoo College and former dean of the school of education at the University of Virginia, wrote a widely

acclaimed paper in 1990 titled “Are We Losing Our Liberal Arts Colleges?” in which he said the United States has 212 liberal arts colleges. In 2012, Inside Higher Ed conducted a study using his criteria for what defines a liberal arts school and found there are only 130, which was a drop of 39%. “There was a tradition going back to Jefferson, who founded the University of Virginia, that a liberal arts education was the core of our democracy,” Breneman told The New York Times in 2015. “If we lose an educated populace, we’re open for demagogy.” In that same interview, Breneman also said he believes the shifts in funding for colleges in the United States is slowly transforming universities into trade schools. Cutting a plethora of liberal arts programs in Potter College falls in line with the thinking of Gov. Matt Bevin, someone who always seems to be an opponent of students and liberal arts, even though he earned a bachelor’s degree in East Asian studies. Universities are not solely designed to meet a state’s workforce needs. While this is part of the purpose for postsecondary education, universities are also designed to broaden their students’ minds by improving the way they think on a matter of subjects. Gutting programs in Potter College is not how this is achieved. WKU is a diverse campus with a vast amount of different thinkers, and cutting its liberal arts programs wouldn’t only be a disservice to the students enrolled in them but also to the university’s reputation going forward.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Now is the time to start preparing for finals

SUBMITTED BY KARL LAVES HERALD.OPINION@WKU.EDU

I don’t claim to be an expert on finals preparation but I think my advice is no less useful and may be a bit more realistic than what passes for the usual finals week chaos. If you think all-nighters work and that you do your best work under pressure; good luck. Because

you have just been lucky so far. You should start now preparing for finals. Make a schedule, figure out when you are in class, at work, eating, napping, working out, socializing and commit it to the schedule. Think now about how much time you will need to prepare for each final. Breaking a big task into smaller parts is an effective method. Do a little bit everyday for each class between now and finals week.

You have all the material read at least once before finals’ week. The night before a final should be spent reviewing, not reading for the first time. Pages in textbooks should be converted to outlined notes which can then be turned into index cards. Lecture notes as well should be re-written into a more precise summary of the content, using charts, diagrams instead of text when possible. Get a piece of poster board or a roll

DISCLOSURES

of paper and make a big “battle plan” on your wall. Add motivational quotes, pictures, images, etc. There is no such thing as getting too far ahead or studying too much. Start now, with a plan, do something each day for each class, and your finals week will go a whole lot better. Karl Laves is the associate director of the Counseling and Testing Center at WKU and is a licensed counseling psychologist. Griﬃn Fletcher* Copy Desk Chief

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FUN A5

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

FUN PAGE Across

1. What vegetable is NOT an ingredient in V8? (a) Spinach (b) Beet (c) Cabbage 2. What country produces the most potatoes? (a) China (b) Ireland (c) Russia 3. What vegetable has varieties known as Orobelle and Jupiter? (a) Onion (b) Pepper (c) Squash 4. What soft-drink company introduced the brand "Slice?" (a) Dr Pepper (b) Coca Cola (c) Pepsi 5. The Rueben sandwich does NOT contain what? (a) Ham (b) Corned beef (c) Swiss cheese 6. Marzipan is made from what kind of nut? (a) Almond (b) Pecan (c) Cashew 7. What cooking oil is lowest in saturated fat? (a) Olive oil (b) Safflower oil (c) Coconut oil 8. As of 2012, how much beer does the average person drink in a year in the U.S.? (a) 18.5 gallons (b) 28.3 gallons (c) 12.4 gallons 9. Europeans first learned of chocolate from whom? (a) East Indians (b) Aztecs (c) Incas 10. What ligueur was made according to Bonnie Prince Charlie's secret recipe? (a) Drambuie (b) Frangelico (c) Amaretto 6.a 7.b 8.c 9.b 10.a

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Land’s end? Charles Lamb and others Cabinet div. Misfortune “Hold on a ___!” Carried on Bring together Month after Adar Assayer’s bowl Tributary of the Columbia Kind of energy Defrost Last name in fashion Throw Marienbad, for one Butterfly catcher

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PHOTO

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

Spectra Cosmos dances to “Salute” by Little Mix at the WKU HRL Drag Show at the Knicely Center on April 11.

QUEENS OF THE NIGHT

PHOTOS BY CHRIS KOHLEY HERALD.PHOTO@WKU.EDU

Queen Venus performs “Baby I’m a Star” by Prince during the WKU HRL Drag Show at the Knicely Conference Center on April 11. Queen Venus closed out both acts of the drag show in two elegant costumes.

Scarlett Mascara (left), Spectra Cosmos and LaDiamond Sexton prepare themselves backstage during the WKU HRL Drag Show at the Knicely Conference Center on April 11. The event was held from 8-11 p.m. and featured 13 performers.

LaDiamond Sexton applies her wig backstage at the Knicely Conference Center at the WKU HRL Drag Show on April 11. Cheryl (right) applies makeup backstage at the Knicely Conference Center at the WKU HRL Drag Show on April 11.

LIFE

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

WKU student creates clothing brand BY MARK WEBSTER HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU

Bowling Green resident Margaret Zoellner ﬁrst took swim lessons from Powell at the Bowling Green Country Club when she was 5 years old. “He taught me to swim,” Zoellner said. “I’ve never not known him. He’s my coach.” She said Powell’s success in swimming 82 lengths at 82 years old is something she’s come to expect. “It actually doesn’t surprise me at all,” Zoellner said. “He’s a legend.” Zoellner’s daughters also received swim lessons from Powell and now

Jaden Grant, a WKU student from Louisville, has a desire to live out his dreams despite adversity. Grant, 19, is involved with the WKU Intercultural Student Engagement Center as an ISEC scholar. He is also an entrepreneur and the CEO of his own clothing brand, Jiggy Styles. Grant said the name of his brand holds tremendous value for his loved ones, business partners and colleagues. “I remember growing up, A$AP Rocky said in the one of his interviews the word ‘jiggy’ is defined as different,” Grant said. “You move different, talk different, not being from the same parts...the word defined me.” Grant said Jiggy Styles looks to provide a unique aspect to the clothing industry, and it already has. “One of my goals was to ensure that I am providing stuff that people would immediately buy,” Grant said. On the brand’s Instagram page — in big bold letters — the words “DARE YOURSELF TO BE DIFFERENT” can be read at the very top of the profile. From crewnecks, sweatshirts, tank tops and other accessories, Jiggy Styles offers a selection for both men and women. The clothing, which is described as “Street Wear Mixed With Urban Style,” is growing rapidly. On the Instagram page, there are quotes about expressing the importance of self determination and the ability to never be satisfied, including the quote, “Invest into yourself. Fashion fades. Style is eternal.” Grant, also known as Rico, is seen as a man with many hats. Along with being a full-time student, Grant tries to be a voice for the youth of his city and influence younger kids in Bowling Green. “Growing up, I didn’t have it easy,” Grant said. “I was tested, and I’m very blessed and fortunate enough to be able to talk to you about my story.” Grant has a support system. Longtime friend Gary Trowel had nothing but positive things to say about Grant. “Jaden is one of the hardest working people I know,” Trowel said. “Whenever he wants something done, trust me, he’s gonna get it taken care of. Jaden has completely turned his life around. He use to be out here, but that’s what change is all about. Jaden loves to see people do great things in life as well as holding people accountable.” Seneca Crump, the assistant residence hall director of Hugh Poland Hall and adviser of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, said he had great respect for Grant. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing

SEE POWELL • PAGE B3

SEE BRAND• PAGE B3

IVY CABELLO • HERALD

Coach Bill Powell completes 82 laps in 41:15:66. Powell turned 82 years old on Saturday, April, 13, 2019. WKU’s Bill Powell Natatorium is named after Powell, who founded the WKU swim program.

82 LAPS FOR 82 YEARS

Former WKU swim coach keeps tradition BY GRIFFIN FLETCHER HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU

Timers set. Goggles on. “Ready?” Blink and you might’ve missed the start of a tradition almost 40 years in the making. As he’s done since his 46th birthday, former WKU swim coach Bill Powell swam the same number of laps in the pool as his age on Saturday, April 13, starting only minutes after 8 a.m. Now 82 years old, Powell said he believes swimming is unlike any other kind of exercise. “I just think the best thing in the world is swimming,” Powell said. “Swimming’s weightless, and you can do it forever.” Though Powell typically swims his birthday lengths at the Preston Center natatorium, which bears his name, he decided to swim this year at the Warren County Aquatic Center to support the RACE Aquatics Swim Club and its fundraising efforts to revamp the aquatic center. Along with working as a part-time swim instructor at WKU, Powell frequently assists the club with swim practice. During the 41 minutes and 15 seconds it took Powell to swim the length of the pool 82 times, a crowd of around 40 comprised of club members, parents and Powell’s friends cheered and clapped loudly and awaited Powell’s ﬁnish. He swam the lengths at a determined pace throughout, sometimes grinning before ﬂip turning his way to another completed length, letting everyone know he was never far from

having fun. Though Powell ﬁnished the lengths at a pace slightly behind that which he completed them at last year, no one seemed to notice. Instead, almost immediately after ﬁnishing, blue and yellow leis were draped around his neck, and Queen’s “We Are the Champions” played on the natatorium’s speakers. Amanda Brooks, a WKU chemistry instructor and mother of RACE members, sat at one end of the pool during Powell’s lengths to keep time and encourage Powell all the while.

Powell for what he’s accomplished despite any age-caused limitations. He said he believes Powell is a testament to facing age in a vigorous, yet sensible, way. “It’s inspiring to me because I know, fighting that age-related decline myself, that you just keep fighting the fight, because the alternative is worse,” Romney said. “He may not swim as fast as he did the previous year, but he still has concrete goals, and he’s still pursuing them with a healthy focus.”

“It’s inspiring to me because I know, ﬁghting that age-related decline myself, that you just keep fighting the fight, because the alternative is worse.” RACE head coach NEIL ROMNEY

She said Powell inspired her to begin swimming for exercise a few years ago after watching him do so while giving her daughters swim lessons. “He’s my hero,” Brooks said. “You can’t beat that.” RACE head coach Neil Romney, who also coaches the Warren County swim and dive team, ﬁrst met Powell soon after starting as the RACE head coach around six months ago. He said he believes Powell is a great mentor for all his students. “The kids love him,” Romney said. “He’s been a huge help to us.” Romney added that he respects

Student hosts fashion show for Black Lives Matter BY KELLEY HOLLAND HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU Tiye Gardner has always been interested in fashion. When she was a child, she would often draw images of clothing items she wished were sold in stores. Now, it is no surprise she is hosting her own fashion show at WKU. Gardner held her first fashion show when she was in high school and dedicated it to bullying awareness. She only designed her own outfit, but it received many positive responses. This prompted her to start designing more outfits for her next show in 2015, which was her first Black Lives Matter fashion show. She got the idea after Trayvon Martin was killed, so she knew she wanted to focus on a social justice issue that mattered to her. This week, Gardner will be hosting another Black Lives Matter fashion show in DSU as part of her honors

TYGER WILLIAMS • HERALD

Tiye Gardner of Louisville sells tickets for her Black Lives Matter fashion show in DSU on Monday. Gardner is coordinating and designing her ﬁfth fashion show this Wednesday on April 17, 2019 at 5 p.m. “It’s something that I am really passionate about,” Gardner said. “I want to show my appreciation for black people, black culture and black art.”

thesis. The focus is racial hierarchies in Latin America, a topic she came up with after studying abroad in Argentina, Mexico and Costa Rica. “I started noticing this pattern, and it was just like each place I went, I was treated differently by locals,” Gardner said. “Now that I’m a citizenship and social justice major, I’m starting to be able to put a term to those experiences.” The pieces featured in the show will be inspired by her experiences in those countries. In addition to the fashion show, there will be an event where student artists will display and sell their work while networking with attendees called “Black Art Expo.” “What I really like to do is just allow people the ability to share their art at my shows,” Gardner said. “I like to make community events. You’ve gotta support your peers.” SEE FASHION SHOW • PAGE B3

B2 LIFE

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

Dance department holds intensive summer program “SDI allows young dancers to experience what it is like to major or minor in the dance program at WKU.”

BY TAYLOR METCALF HERALD.FEATURES@WKU.EDU The time has almost come for dancers to grab their leotards, ballet skirts, tights and tap shoes. WKU is counting down the days before high school students begin the week-long Summer Dance Intensive. WKU’s SDI is entering its fourth year and is still going strong in providing knowledge to young dancers and funds to WKU’s dance program. Beginning June 16 and continuing through June 22, students grades 9-12 start intensive courses on campus. According to the SDI website, the program will include “daily ballet, jazz, and modern dance technique classes along with coursework including pointe, tap, dance improvisation, dance history, and world dance forms.” Meghen McKinley, a WKU assistant dance professor with the intensive, detailed the beneﬁts of young dancers attending the program. “SDI allows young dancers to experience what it is like to major or minor in the dance program at WKU,” McKinley said in an email. “Preparation extends beyond only the studio space, but exposes the dancers to topics in the ﬁeld; dance history, dance in culture, nutrition, pedagogy, to name a few.” The program also hosts a Q&A where the students can ask questions about, as McKinley said, “college, suc-

WKU assistant dance professor MEGHAN MCKINLEY

cess as dancers, as well as what other opportunities they have to join dance with other ﬁelds.” The resident assistants for the week are also WKU dance majors and offer insight to the younger dancers. The program also features guest artists that broaden the dance spectrum for the attendees. This year’s guests include Maria Hall, Matumbe Himons and Kourtney “Koko” French. Hall and Himons are from Sankofa Dance, which is known for its African style. French is the founder of Ink Movement, which practices hip-hop. “This year, we wanted to offer both new and returning students a new experience,” McKinley said. “Our goal was to support regional dancers and

artists and highlight new genre [sic] at our intensive. It is important to us that we continue to expose our dancers to a variety of dance genres and topics each summer.” SDI averages 25-30 participants each year, creating a close-knit learning environment for the students. McKinley said many of the attending students are incoming WKU freshmen. Each year, the earnings from the intensive go straight to WKU’s dance program. Last year, the funds paid the airfare and choreographic fee of Cuban artist Juan Enrique Jiminez Sanchez. The money also supported the expense of sending 16 students and four faculty to the American College Dance Association’s South Confer-

ence. Amanda Clark is the dance program coordinator and the co-director of the SDI. “These funds help us reach a greater number of prospective students, and help is to provide the guest artist opportunities that align us with or push us past other collegiate dance programs in Kentucky and surrounding states,” Clark said. SDI provides a welcoming environment that allows students to dance and learn as much as they can while still supporting WKU and the dance program.

Features reporter Taylor Metcalf can be reached at 270-745-6291 and taylor.metcalf496@topper.wku.edu.

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B3 LIFE

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

POWELL

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1 swim for RACE. She said they still value Powell’s opinion on all things swimming. “They would listen to him today,” Zoellner said. “If he had something to say, they would stand at attention, hold their breath and listen to every word.” Born in Wyandotte, Michigan, Powell worked as a high school swim coach for 10 years before traveling to Bowling Green to kickstart the WKU men’s swimming and diving program in 1969. He worked as the WKU men’s swim team head coach from then until 2005, amassing a record of 330 career men’s dual meet victories and winning coach of the year honors 10 times during his 36-year tenure as head coach, according to a website dedicated to Powell named CoachPowell.com. Bowling Green City Commissioner Brian “Slim” Nash swam for WKU from 1988-1993 under Powell’s leadership. He said Powell helped shape him into who he’s become. Nash said Powell is remarkable for his effect on those he’s close to, adding that he believes Powell’s birthday lengths are much more than swimming against a timer. “This is swimming lengths, but it’s also about his character,” Nash said. “That same level of determination

IVY CABELLO • HERALD

RACE Aquatics swimmers cheer on Coach Bill Powell as he completes his 82nd lap to celebrate his 82nd birthday on Saturday, April, 13, 2019.

consideration. She included that his birthday lengths are a way to pay that same consideration to himself.

“I normally do more than 82 lengths. This was an easy day.” Former WKU swim coach BILL POWELL

As for why Powell swims, Joey Powell spoke simply. “Use it or lose it,” Joey Powell said. “He just knows that you stay active or you vegetate.” She added that watching her husband do what he loves for another birthday is something beyond words. “It’s a wonderful thing,” Joey Powell said as tears welled. “It’s joy, it’s just joy.” Shortly after completing the lengths, Powell mentioned he rarely gets sick. He said he attributes most of this to swimming. “It’s been so good to me,” Powell said. “I just don’t get sick.” This wasn’t always the case, how-

and commitment he passes on to everyone he knows.” Nash said he believes Powell’s status as a gifted mentor is due in large part to the connection he shares with his wife, Joanne “Joey” Powell. “Coach is who coach is because Joanne, his wife, supports him in tremendous ways,” Nash said. “They have a relationship that all of us should strive for. They make it look effortless, but it takes work.” Approaching 60 years of marriage in December 2019, the Powell’s have four children and 12 grandchildren. However, Joey Powell said swimming has gifted them a family much larger. “Through swimming, the number of kids that have gone through our lives is just mind-boggling,” Joey Powell said. “We are very, very, very rich for it.” Joey Powell said she believes Powell’s been able to impact so many people on account of his bountiful

“He cares,” Joey Powell said. “He’s always done it for others, and now he’s doing it for himself.”

BRAND

and that’s what I respect the most about him. He’s proven to me that he’s not settling for just anything in life, which is truly inspiring to see in a young man at his age.” Grant said he looks to continue to take his brand to the next level and in the near future would love to possibly bring Jiggy Styles to the WKU bookstore to expand the Hilltopper

spirit. The recent death of rapper Nipsey Hussle had an impact on Grant. He said he wanted to have an influence similar to that which Nipsey had — not only on his generation but also on his community. He said he thinks of the first stanza from Nipsey Hussle’s song “I Do This” every day.

awareness to issues such as colorism and the global aspect of racial domination. During the show, Gardner will speak about the designs she made and about her experiences abroad. “I’m not doing it to only speak about my negative experiences abroad, but it’s also about the amazing experiences and connections and contacts I have,” Gardner said. Gardner said she hopes attendees will be inspired to study abroad as well as to chase their own dreams. Leah Ashwill, director of the Center for Citizenship and Social Justice, is serving as the first reader for Gardner’s capstone project. She believes the fashion show will increase awareness about the Black Lives Matter movement in an inspiring and cre-

”I think it’s important to show that there are white women dedicated to the cause of Black Lives Matter.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1

Rico, aka my lil’ bro, for about nine months now, and I’m truly inspired by his perseverance and commitment to better himself and those around him,” Crump said. “Rico is the pure example of a young man grinding to achieve his big dreams,

FASHION SHOW

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B1 A portion of the admission fees will go toward Let’s Play Ball Puerto Rico, an organization Gardner is involved with. The organization helps little league baseball and softball teams in Puerto Rico that are in need of assistance. Lee Wright, another WKU student, will be modeling designs and walking in the show. “I feel good about walking in the show,” Wright said in an email. “I think it’s important to show that there are white women dedicated to the cause of Black Lives Matter.” Wright said she feels the event is important because it will raise

IVY CABELLO • HERALD

Coach Bill Powell swims 82 lengths, or 2050 yards, to celebrate his 82nd birthday on Saturday, April 13, 2019. Each year on his birthday, Powell sets the goal to swim as many laps as the age he turns

WKUHERALD.COM

WKU student LEE WRIGHT

ative way. “There are a lot of misconceptions about what BLM is and what it is not,” Ashwill said in an email. “It is my hope that many students take the opportunity to come out and learn more about BLM through this exceptional-

ever, as Powell said he contracted chickenpox, mumps, whooping cough and measles from his three older siblings before he turned a year old. He said a family friend once told him his chances for survival looked slim during that year, but his parents would never accept any doubt. “Excuses were just forbidden in our house,” Powell said regarding his parents’ expectations. “I never knew I wasn’t supposed to live.” Powell said he originally began swimming as many lengths as his age on his birthdays as a way to keep his swimming exercises interesting. Though many now know of his birthday lengths tradition, what’s not as well-known is that he typically swims around 3,000 meters, the equivalent of 120 lengths, nonconsecutively every day. “I normally do more than 82 lengths,” Powell said. “This was an easy day.” With more than half a century dedicated to swimming and educating others, Powell said he lives to lead whenever possible. He does this by swimming and never forgetting what matters most. “I try to be an example,” Powell said of how he best serves his students. “Gotta keep swimming. I told them, ‘That’s how I stay above ground.’”

Reporter Griffin Fletcher can be reached at 270-745-2655 and griffin.fletcher398@topper.wku.edu.

“Well, who would you want to define you? / Someone else or yourself?” Sinister Pook said in the song’s spoken-word introduction. “Whatever you do, homie, give your heart to it / And stay strong.”

Features reporter Mark Webster Jr. can be reached at 270-745-6291 and mark.webster102 @topper.wku.edu.

ly unique medium for activism.” Ashwill said that as a supporter of and mentor to young activists, she has never seen anything quite like Gardner’s style of activism. After Gardner graduates, she said she hopes to apply what she has learned at WKU to real life — working within the community while still keeping fashion as a hobby. “I have a huge appreciation for art, and I think fashion is art,” Gardner said. The Black Lives Matter fashion show will be held in DSU room 3005 on April 17 at 5 p.m. Tickets are $7 in advance and $12 at the door.

Features reporter Kelley Holland can be reached at 270-745-6291 and kelley.holland872@topper.wku.edu.

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE @WKUHERALD

B4 SPORTS

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

Hilltoppers drop series, continue to slide in C-USA BY KADEN GAYLORD HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU WKU lost its second-straight Conference USA series to Marshall last week 2-1. But the Hilltoppers put on a confident performance in the final game of a doubleheader on Saturday, escaping with their lone win in three tries against the Thundering Herd. “We pulled into the park [10 hours ago] at 9 a.m. today and played 27 innings in less than 24 hours. Our concentration and focus were awesome,” head coach John Pawlowski said in a press release. “We stayed the course and found a way to walk out of here with a win, which is so important in this league.” WKU took a major right hook in the first game, as the Thundering Herd took a 7-0 lead in the first three innings on Friday. Colin Lollar allowed six earned runs on three hits and six walks in 2.1 innings of pitching. The only runs WKU produced were a solo homerun from junior first baseman

BRITTANY MORRISON • HERALD

”We stayed the course and found a way to walk out of here with a win, which is so important in this league.” WKU baseball head coach JOHN PAWLOWSKI

Richard Constantine in the fourth and an RBI single from Jake Sanford in the eighth. Marshall won the game in a landslide, 8-2. The Hilltoppers came out slow again on Saturday, not registering a run until scoring two in the fourth inning. After putting up another three runs in the top of the sixth, WKU lost all its momentum in the second game of the series. Marshall scored six runs in the bottom of the sixth inning and didn’t

WKU Hilltoppers stand for the pledge of allegiance before their game against Belmont on April 9, 2019 at Nick Denes Field. WKU won the game with a score of 8-7.

look back for the rest of the contest. The Thundering Herd ultimately won the first half of a doubleheader 11-7. The third game was a complete turnaround for the Hilltoppers, as they came out swinging and earned a 3-0 lead in the first inning. Marshall kept them off the board for the next five innings and scored five runs of their own in the fourth and three more in the sixth. WKU scored seven runs in the seventh, highlighted by a Constantine three-run homer to give WKU its first lead since the first inning. The Hilltoppers outscored the Thundering Herd 13-2 in the last three innings of the game, giving WKU a 16-11 win that also erased a potential series sweep for Marshall. For the series, Sanford went 6-for13, scoring five runs, one RBI and one home run. Constantine went 2-for-14 with two runs scored, batting in five

runs and hitting two home runs. Senior third baseman Nick Brunson went 6-for-13 with three runs and three RBIs. Senior relief pitcher Jacob Green got the lone win on the mound for the Hilltoppers, giving up two earned runs on two hits while striking out four of the 13 batters he faced. “You want to find a way to come out with a win somehow, and it’s a good feeling. Our mindset was the stay within our approach, get guys on and just keep doing our job like we’ve been doing all year.” Brunson said in the release. “My approach all day was really trying to let the ball get deep and drive it to right field, but then I also got a few pitches middle-in that I turned on.” WKU currently sits at 16-17-1 (8-6-1 C-USA), recently sliding down to fifth place in the conference standings. The Hilltoppers will head to Nashville on Tuesday for their next game. WKU will face Belmont just one week

after defeating the Bruins 8-7. In that game, the Hilltoppers notched their ﬁfth walk-off win of the year. Game time is set for 4 p.m. After returning home from Nashville, the Hilltoppers will host their next C-USA series against Florida Atlantic. The Owls currently sit at 24-11 (12-3 C-USA) after they lost their last series against Louisiana Tech this past weekend 2-1. FAU will take on Central Florida on Tuesday before heading to Bowling Green on Friday. WKU has lost six of its last eight against the Owls and iscurrently on a two-game losing streak against them. Game 1 is set to start at 5 p.m. on Friday, followed by a 1 p.m. start on Saturday and Sunday.

Baseball reporter Kaden Gaylord can be reached at 270-745-6291 and kaden.gaylord559@topper.wku.edu Follow him on Twitter at @_KLG3.

Hilltoppers continue success against North Texas BY SOPHIE AUSTIN HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU

CHRIS KOHLEY • HERALD

WKU pitcher Kelsey Aikey (12) winds up to pitch against North Texas on April 14. Aikey pitched all ﬁve innings of the 8-0 victory, allowing only one hit in 104 pitches.

CHRIS KOHLEY • HERALD

The WKU softball team cheers from the dugout after a successful bunt from Kennedy Sullivan against North Texas on Sunday. The Hilltoppers went on to win 8-0, advancing their conference record to 12-3.

The WKU softball team is now 29-9 overall and 12-3 in Conference USA play after a three-game series at home against North Texas this weekend. The teams split a doubleheader on Saturday, and the Hilltoppers won Sunday’s game to take the series 2-1. North Texas took the first game 8-2 but would be held to just one run for the rest of the weekend. The second game on Saturday evened the series 1-1 when the Hilltoppers posted a 3-1 win. Freshman Kennedy Sullivan suffered the loss in the circle in Saturday’s first game, her first in league play, to make her 5-1 in C-USA and 15-3 overall. Sullivan pitched 6.1 innings to finish with six hits, eight runs, six walks and four strikeouts before being replaced by junior Kelsey Aikey, who took care of the last two outs. Sophomore Shelby Nunn earned the win in the circle in the second game on Saturday after pitching a complete-game two-hitter. Nunn finished with two hits, one run, one walk and four strikeouts. “Jordan Thomas set the tone in a big way today – what a way to show up,” head coach Amy Tudor said Saturday in a press release. “I thought our response from game one to game two was impressive on all levels. We had focus, productivity on both offense and defense, not to mention lots of hustle. Shelby Nunn held down the circle and had a wonderful performance today.” Much of WKU’s offensive momentum this weekend came from sophomore Jordan Thomas, who posted three home runs, one in each game. She now has seven home runs on the season. Thomas also scored all three runs for the Hilltoppers in the second game on Saturday. WKU won Sunday’s game 8-0 after a big offensive showing. The victory

secured the Hilltoppers’ fourth series win. Senior Shannon Plese, sophomore Kendall Smith and Jordan Thomas each connected for a home run in the win. In addition to her home run, Smith also had four RBIs. Aikey took the win in the circle after pitching all ﬁve innings, threw eight strikeouts and allowed just one hit. The win made her 9-6 overall and 5-2 in conference play. The win was also Aikey’s third complete-game shutout of the season. “We set the tone today both in the

”We had focus, productivity on both oﬀense and defense, not to mention lots of hustle.” WKU softball head coach AMY TUDOR

circle and at the plate,” Tudor said in the press release. “Kelsey Aikey threw it well and we hit it far. This was a big series win for us against a seasoned opponent in North Texas.” The Hilltoppers will be back in action when they travel to Cookeville, Tennessee, to take on Tennessee Tech in a doubleheader on Wednesday. The Hilltoppers will be looking to take both games after dropping a doubleheader to the Golden Eagles last time they played them back in February 2018. The Golden Eagles currently hold a record of 17-20 on the season and are 6-7 in Ohio Valley Conference play. The ﬁrst game on Wednesday is set to begin at 2 p.m.

Reporter Sophie Austin can be reached at 270-745-2653 and Sophie.Austin380@topper.wku.edu.

SPORTS B5

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

WKU FOOTBALL

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B6

just before halftime. Instead of the former Arkansas player, redshirt sophomore Davis Shanley was the star for the winning side. Shanley threw for 185 yards and two scores, accounting for half of the White team’s 28 points while fulﬁlling what he called the “toughest job on the ﬁeld.” “It comes from Tyson, you know, he demands and expects perfection — especially from the quarterbacks,” Shanley said. “But the quarterbacks also have to emphasize it on everybody else. You know, perfect routes, perfect blocking, perfect everything.” Although Helton will not make a decision on his starting quarterback until late in the summer at the very earliest, he said the signal callers played a solid all-around game. “We wanted to rotate guys in there, so it’s always hard to get gelled with one guy when you’re trying to get ev-

QUIT STAHL-ING

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B6 looked solid, if unspectacular, for the Red team. To me, he seems like the clear frontrunner for the starting job, especially with the way Storey played. However, Duncan did commit the worst intentional grounding penalty I’ve ever seen and had trouble with several snaps, but whether those were his fault or the center’s was up for debate. By far the best quarterback of the day was redshirt sophomore Davis

STANSBURY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B6

The departures at the beginning of Stansbury’s time at WKU were not out of the ordinary, since any time a new coach takes over a program, transfers are bound to happen. But the players who transferred in years

erybody to play,” Helton said. “But for the most part, they did a nice job, and they managed the offense. Had a couple turnovers that I don’t like to see — interceptions, kind of pressing the ball a little bit. But they made some plays too and made some throws down the ﬁeld, which was good to see.” Redshirt senior receiver Quin Jer-

said on April 11. The receivers did just that, as four different wideouts collected 95 yards or more. Defensive coordinator Clayton White’s unit also ﬂexed its muscles prior to the regular season, as redshirt junior defensive back Gaej Walker scored an 89-yard touchdown on a

“It comes from Tyson, you know, he demands and expects perfection — especially from the quarterbacks.” Redshirt sophomore DAVIS SHANLEY nighan, who snagged a touchdown for the Red squad, had a simple message for his position group prior to the intrasquad scrimmage. “My goal for the wide receiver group is just come out, have fun and do what we normally do – come out with swag and score touchdowns,” Jernighan

fumble recovery for the White team, while Red came away with multiple picks, including one in the endzone from redshirt freshman defensive back Beanie Bishop. “That’s a big emphasis,” Bishop said. “We put [turnovers] number one on our board. ‘Put the ball down’ is our

Shanley. I can’t see Shanley starting this season, but he looked better than ever on Saturday. Shanley ﬁnished with 185 yards through the air as well as two touchdowns. He seems to have strengthened his arm this offseason and also made some nice escapes behind an offensive line that wasn’t playing its best. Elsewhere on offense, the biggest surprise was wide receiver Xavier Lane. Before leaving the team in the middle of last season, Lane was dropping passes like Lil Nas X drops incredible country music. But

he looked phenomenal on Saturday, catching about everything that came his way. One encouraging sign for the future came on defense, where it turns out freshman defensive back and Bowling Green native Clayton Bush is really, really good. He had several pass breakups, a few nice tackles and an interception. Do I think he’ll start this season? Absolutely not. Kincade and redshirt junior Devon Key will have a lock on the safety positions barring injury. However, Bush’s future is bright, and he could certainly see the ﬁeld at

two and three of his tenure are certainly head-scratchers. More departures are also possible. Freshman center Charles Bassey could opt to declare for the NBA Draft and forgo his remaining eligibility. Bassey has until midnight on April 21 to make that decision. For any of the remaining players at WKU, transfers are still on the table,

too. It remains to be seen where the Hilltoppers will be projected to finish in C-USA standings next year, but a potential mass exodus of talented players will not help matters much. Lack of continuity and team chemistry will be a major hurdle for Stansbury and his staff to over-

saying, and we value interceptions and turnovers – period.” As fall draws near, Helton and company can take solace knowing that two evenly matched squads totaled nearly 700 yards and both tallied at least 21 points. WKU netted that many points per game in 2018, which ranked 118th of 130 schools. Logically, the Hilltoppers should enjoy a much higher-octane offense when the best players from both sides join forces in the opener against Central Arkansas on Aug. 29. “I think our guys are playing for each other,” Helton said. “I think we have a good brotherhood here – they believe in the coaching staff. They believe in themselves. So, we’re off to a really good path. We just got to keep taking step after step so we can get back to championship-quality football.”

Sports reporter Drake Kizer can be reached at 270-745-2653 and clinton.kizer287@topper.wku.edu. Follow Drake on Twitter at @drakekizer_.

some point this year. A quick look through the Herald archives tells me we have several pictures of a young Bush — one where he’s 10 years old and looking at WKU football helmets. In another, he’s 2 years old, and Big Red is putting a strange-looking hat on his head. If Bush lives up to his potential, maybe we’ll get to break those out again sometime soon.

Sports Editor Matt Stahl can be reached at 270-745-6291 and matthew.stahl551@topper.wku.edu. Follow him on Twitter @mattstahl97.

come during the 2019-20 season, especially if they want to reach their ultimate goal of winning the C-USA tournament and getting back to the NCAA tournament.

Reporter Alec Jessie can be reached at 270-745-6291 and ajessie97@ gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Alec_Jessie.

SPORTS

TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2019 WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

B6 QUIT STAHL-ING

Spring game showing a mixed bag for Hilltoppers BY MATT STAHL HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU

in that way.” Seven of the Red team’s 21 points came on a Duncan check-down to his running back, as redshirt sophomore Jakairi Moses glided into the endzone for a game-opening score. White team’s starter was graduate transfer Ty Storey, who threw a pair of interceptions in the opening quarter before tossing a 29-yard touchdown

There really was a lot for WKU football fans to get excited about following the annual Red vs. White Spring Game. However, the team is still far away from being ready to take the ﬁeld in August. The thing players and coaches were most willing to talk about after the game was the new offensive system that ﬁrst-year head coach Tyson Helton has put into place. Following two years of former head coach Mike Sanford trying to force his own offensive mentality onto a roster that wasn’t built for it — especially in a league where the old way had been dominant — fans should be thrilled to see the ball in the air again. Unfortunately, none of the quarterbacks on the roster looked like they had what it takes to have consistent success in that offense. Sure, almost all of them had some good, even great, moments. But none of them looked all that impressive under pressure, and the bad throws were numerous. Redshirt freshman Kevaris Thomas looked the worst out of the quarterback group. He had ample opportunity to show off the arm that made him such a highly touted recruit coming out of Lakeland, Florida, but instead, he constantly overthrew his receivers, including one pass that nearly hit the fence through the back of the south end zone. Thomas also had a fumble that was recovered by the defense. However, Helton opted to call it a sack, so Thomas came away without a turnover on the stat sheet. Turnovers were a major issue for newcomer Ty Storey, a graduate transfer from Arkansas. Storey threw two picks, one to Beanie Bishop and one to Antwon Kincade. Kincade should have had a pick-six off of Storey, as well, but didn’t secure the ball before taking off for the end zone. Storey did have a few nice throws late, including one to freshman Manny Allen, who looked every bit as good as advertised, scoring a touchdown and making several nice catches, showing he’s exactly the type of receiver Helton is looking for. Redshirt junior Steven Duncan

SEE WKU FOOTBALL • PAGE B5

SEE QUIT STAHL-ING • PAGE B5

CHRIS KOHLEY • HERALD

WKU quarterback Steven Duncan (10) talks with oﬀensive lineman Parker Howell (68) as they run out of the tunnel before the Red vs White Spring game on April 13. The Red team came up short to the White team, losing 28-21.

‘THROW IT DEEP’ High-flying offense displayed in spring game

BY DRAKE KIZER HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU

WKU football began its spring practice schedule on March 12, but just like an April rain shower, the Hilltoppers’ time on the gridiron this spring is over as quickly as it started. Over the allotted five-week period, which included 14 practice sessions, first-year head coach Tyson Helton worked with new offensive coordinator Bryan Ellis to shape a system that would pay homage to the program’s roots as a vertical passing attack. The 15th and final practice of the spring — the annual Red vs. White Spring Game — was a golden opportunity for the duo to show off WKU’s new-look offense on a grand stage. “I love our team, I love their effort,” Helton said postgame. “They handle every day like pros, to be honest with you. They come to work every day, they love each other, so it’s fun to be their head football coach. Really enjoying it right now.” Helton’s “throw it deep, and throw it deep often” mantra was on full display, as both the Red and White squads combined for 612 passing yards in the scrimmage. The yardage came from six different passers, as each squad

CHRIS KOHLEY • HERALD

WKU wide receiver Jahcour Pearson (7) is brought down by defensive back Ta’Corian Darden (15) during the Red vs. White Spring Game on April 13.

used three quarterbacks. At practice last Thursday, Red team starter Steven Duncan said he worked on his deep-ball timing this spring, which has allowed him to be less reliant on just having a big arm. “I think that there’s a lot of room to improve, and even checking the ball down would help me out a lot,” the redshirt junior said on April 11. “So, this spring game, if it’s not there, I hope to do that and just better myself

WKU continues to lose players under Stansbury BY ALEC JESSIE HERALD.SPORTS@WKU.EDU

The WKU men’s basketball season is over, but the offseason has brought new challenges to the program. Last Wednesday, two Hilltoppers announced their intentions to transfer from WKU. Rising senior center Matt Horton and rising sophomore point guard Dalano Banton elected to leave the Hill and pursue other opportunities elsewhere. “I’d like to thank my teammates, the WKU fans and coaches for bringing me in and loving me like a real family,” Horton said via Twitter. “But my time here came shorter than I thought it would.” Horton fell out of the big-man rota-

tion in Conference USA play, appearing in just 10 games overall. He did not play in a game after a 62-59 win over North Texas on Feb. 9. Banton started the year strong, filling the void left by senior point guard Lamonte Bearden, who was ruled academically ineligible for the first nine games of the regular season. In a marquee win over a ranked Wisconsin squad on Dec. 29, the freshman scored eight points, grabbed 13 boards and dished out 10 assists. After Bearden regained eligibility, Banton saw his playing time dwindle, playing in only seven minutes over the final six games of the year. Horton and Banton are the fourth departures since August 2018 for head coach Rick Stansbury, joining freshman guard Trevelin Queen and graduate transfer Desean Murray. Queen left WKU in September and

joined New Mexico State, a team that won the Western Athletic Conference and made the NCAA tournament. The Aggies fell to No. 5 seed Auburn 7877, but Queen had a chance to win the game for his team on a 3-pointer at the ﬁnal buzzer. Murray had an up-and-down stay on the Hill. The graduate transfer was cited for marijuana possession back in November and was suspended for the season opener against Washington. Murray was reinstated for the home opener against Tennessee-Martin. In his debut, Murray scored 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds in 24 minutes of action. Murray also starred against Tennessee State, tallying 17 points and eight rebounds. Murray started six of the eight games he appeared in, averaging 9.5 points and 4.5 rebounds in those contests. After seeing his minutes diminish

in December, Murray announced he would leave the program to pursue professional opportunities on Dec. 12. “I wish him the best,” Stansbury said in a press conference on Dec. 14. “He was a nice young man. He already had his degree, so I can’t fault him for that if that’s what he wants to do. He has opportunities overseas to go do that.” Early departures have become a common theme in the Stanbury era. In the three years he’s been at the helm, 12 scholarship players have left the program prior to graduation. In just the last calendar year, Horton, Banton, Murray and Queen joined Willie Carmichael, Tobias Howard, Marty Leahy, Jabari McGhee, Damari Parris, Marko Stajkowski, Jordan Brangers and Mitchell Robinson to round out the group of 12 who departed early. SEE STANSBURY • PAGE B5

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